The Leper King's Healer

Chapter 49

Each day unfolded, Philippa found herself ensnared in a whirlwind of responsibilities. The morning ushered in the familiar bustle of her royal duties. Engaging with the courtiers, overseeing administrative tasks, and managing the concerns of the kingdom consumed her time.

With the day's official duties finally complete, Philippa transitioned to another crucial facet of her life—a rigorous training regimen with Lady Ruth. Donning a simple yet sturdy training attire, the young Queen readied herself for the arduous exercises ahead.

Under the watchful eye of Lady Ruth, Philippa plunged into the rigorous training, enduring relentless sessions of swordplay, footwork drills, and endurance tests. Each movement was an exercise in fortitude, pushing her physical limits beyond what she previously believed possible. The sun arched across the sky, casting its warm rays upon the training ground as Philippa poured her determination into every swing and parry.

Despite her weariness, Philippa remained resolute, knowing the importance of strengthening herself physically. Her efforts to hone her skills in swordsmanship were a testament to her dedication, a pursuit aimed at fortifying her ability to protect the kingdom and her people.

Following the rigorous training, Philippa retired to her chambers, her muscles aching and her breaths heavy. Despite her fatigue, there was a sense of fulfillment in her heart—a belief that each drop of sweat shed was a step toward fortifying herself, not just as a Queen, but also as a guardian of Jerusalem.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Philippa entered her workroom, the strains of the day etched across her face were undeniable. Her tired eyes reflected both determination and weariness, marked by the undeniable signs of the intensive training she'd undergone. Her body bore the marks of bruises and minor cuts from the rigorous sword practices.

Philippa turned her attention to the vials of antibiotics she was preparing for Baldwin's camp. Carefully measuring and mixing the ingredients, she crafted the medicines with utmost precision and care, each drop a testament to her concern for the health and well-being of her King, and an expression of her unyielding support even in his absence.

Abu, her trusted assistant, observed her with a mix of admiration and concern. He couldn't help but worry, seeing the bruises that adorned her arms and the fatigue that seemed to weigh heavily on her shoulders. He knew the extent of her dedication, her insistence on learning swordsmanship despite her physical strain.

Philippa's movements were deliberate but a touch labored. She moved to a familiar corner of the room, where a jar of fragrant mint ointment awaited her. With care, she applied the soothing balm to her bruises, wincing slightly at the sting as it met her tender skin. The fresh scent of mint filled the air, mingling with the antiseptic tang that permeated her workroom.

Abu watched her silently, his eyes conveying his worry even as he knew better than to voice it outright. He respected her resilience and resolve, understanding her commitment to not just learning swordsmanship but also to her duties as Queen. He was both amazed by her dedication and slightly anxious about her well-being.

She gently applied the ointment to her bruises. Eventually, Abu leaned against the doorway, trying to find the right words to address Philippa's obvious fatigue without sounding overly serious. Clearing his throat, he ventured into the room, a cheeky grin on his face.

"Your Majesty, forgive my bluntness, but I think the sword might be winning this round," he said with a chuckle, his tone a mix of jest and concern.

Philippa glanced up, a weary smile gracing her lips. "Oh, it's just a few scratches. No harm done," she replied, attempting to downplay her visible exhaustion.