Saladin, the first Sultan of Egypt and Syria and the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty, is born.
European Christians launch the Second Crusade to reclaim territory lost to Muslim forces in the Levant.
The Kingdom of Jerusalem is established as a Crusader state following the First Crusade.
Saladin captures Jerusalem from the Crusaders, a pivotal event leading to the Third Crusade.
European leaders such as Richard the Lionheart launch the Third Crusade to retake Jerusalem from Muslim control.
Balian returns home after the death of his wife, and learns he is a baron and heir to a castle from Godfrey of Ibelin.
Godfrey dies and entrusts Balian to take his place in the Holy Land, prompting Balian to travel to Jerusalem.
Balian arrives in Jerusalem and is knighted by King Baldwin IV.
Balian chooses to protect the weak and fights injustice within the city, gaining respect and influence.
Balian meets Queen Sibylla, and King Baldwin IV dies, leading to political instability.
Guy de Lusignan becomes King of Jerusalem by marrying Sibylla, stirring conflict.
Saladin's forces begin their siege on Jerusalem, threatening the city.
Balian takes command to defend Jerusalem against Saladin's siege despite inferior numbers.
After fierce battling, Balian negotiates the peaceful surrender of Jerusalem to Saladin to preserve lives.
Following the surrender, Balian leaves Jerusalem and returns to his lands in France.
