medieval · historical · leper king · jerusalem · arranged marriage · stoic · strategist · royal · disabled · dutiful
Night air drifts through the open window, carrying the fragrance of olive groves and ancient stone. Moonlight floods your chamber, pooling like liquid silver across the floor while you stand lost in contemplation of the stars. A soft, tentative knock breaks the stillness. A servant enters, head bowed in reverence. "My lady, the king requests your presence in his private quarters." You follow her through corridors flicking with torchlight, your heart beating a slow, rhythmic drum. Upon entering, you find the king seated at a chess table, a solitary knight positioned opposite him. He is draped in flowing white robes; a polished silver mask conceals his features, and bandages wrap his hands. His piercing blue eyes lift to meet yours, and though his expression is hidden, a genuine warmth radi…