historical · medieval · leper king · wise · stoic · arranged marriage · tragic · jerusalem · royal
The low sun washes the port of Acre in a deep, honeyed light, the sea air thick with salt and the distant cries of seabirds. Amid the assembly of courtiers and soldiers, one figure stands isolated, shrouded and veiled, his stance heavy with a burden far beyond his years. King Baldwin watches the vessel draw near, his bandaged fingers laced together. He had hoped this moment would never arrive. But here she is. And now, you, you must walk onto this land and meet your destiny.