Medicine | King Baldwin

2

Days turned into weeks, and the results of their tireless efforts began to manifest. The once-ailing patients under their care showed signs of improvement. Fevers broke, wounds began to heal, and the light of hope returned to the eyes of those who had previously languished in pain and despair.

Their methods, though unconventional by the standards of the time, proved to be remarkably effective. Isabel's knowledge of herbal remedies and Jurian's skillful hands in surgical procedures complemented each other perfectly. Together, they formed a formidable team, earning the respect and gratitude of both their patients and their peers. Word of their remarkable successes spread throughout Jerusalem, drawing even more people seeking their aid. In the face of adversity, Isabel and Jurian remained steadfast, their commitment to healing unwavering.

Jurian and Isabel sat side by side in the cozy confines of their small room, the flickering candlelight casting dancing shadows on the walls. The aroma of a simple yet comforting meal filled the air, enveloping them in a sense of warmth and familiarity as they shared their evening meal.

Isabel, with her gentle demeanor, carefully portioned out servings of food onto their plates, her movements practiced and efficient. As they ate, the clinking of utensils against plates was the only sound that filled the room, a comfortable silence settling between them like an old friend.

Jurian paused, setting down his utensils as he gathered his thoughts. He took a deep breath, meeting Isabel's gaze with a mix of determination and apprehension. "Isabel, there's something I've been thinking about." he began, his voice steady yet tinged with excitement.

Isabel looked at him curiously, sensing the weight behind his words. "What is it?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly in concern.

"I've heard of rare herbs and plants that grow in Egypt." Jurian explained, his eyes brightening with enthusiasm. "Plants with healing properties unlike anything we have here. I've been considering traveling there to gather some of these herbs, to bring back and use for medicine. I believe they could help so many people, Isabel." Isabel's expression softened as she listened to Jurian's words, understanding the noble intentions behind his idea. Yet, she couldn't suppress the worry that crept into her heart.

"But Jurian, Egypt is so far away, and it's not without its dangers." she voiced her concerns, her voice filled with gentle caution. "What if something were to happen to you on your journey?" She asked.

"I know it's a risk, Isabel, but I feel compelled to do this. Imagine the lives we could potentially save with these herbs." he implored, his eyes searching hers for understanding.

After a moment of contemplation, she nodded slowly. "Alright. If this is truly what you believe in, then I will support you. Just promise me that you'll be careful, and that you'll come back safely." Jurian squeezed Isabel's hand reassuringly, gratitude flooding his heart.

"Thank you. I promise, I'll be careful. And I'll return to you as soon as I can." He finished. With a shared glance filled with determination, Jurian and Isabel returned to their meal, their hearts filled with a mix of excitement for the future and the bittersweetness of parting.

Meanwhile, in the opulent halls of the Jerusalem palace, a different kind of tension filled the air. Courtiers bustled about, their hushed whispers and furtive glances betraying the undercurrents of political intrigue that swirled around them.

Within the council room, King Baldwin sat upon his regal seat, his expression grave yet determined. Despite his affliction with leprosy, he exuded an air of authority and strength, his every movement a testament to his unwavering resolve.

At his side stood his sworn knight, Arthur, an older, formidable figure clad in armor, his piercing gaze surveying the room with a mixture of vigilance and suspicion. As the king's hand, Arthur was tasked with safeguarding the realm and ensuring its stability in the face of mounting challenges.

As the members of the council departed after the evening discussion, only a few guards remained with Arthur and Baldwin in the room. The atmosphere was tense due to the challenges raised during the council meeting, and both men felt the weight of responsibility on their shoulders.

Arthur hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully before speaking. "Your Majesty," he began, his tone respectful yet determined. "There is something I would like to discuss with you." He said.

The king, filled with curiosity, nodded to him. "Speak, my friend."

"I have heard of two individuals in the city whose names have become renowned for their expertise in matters of medicine and healing. Their reputation precedes them." Baldwin listened intently, his curiosity piqued by Arthur's words.

"Go on." he urged, his interest evident in his voice.

"These two are known for their unconventional methods and their willingness to explore new avenues in the field of healing." Arthur continued, his gaze steady as he spoke. "They possess knowledge and skills that, let's say, are rare." He stopped for a moment before continuing in a lower voice. "I believe that they may hold the key to alleviating your suffering, Your Majesty." Baldwin's brow furrowed in skepticism.

"Leprosy is a formidable affliction, Arthur." he replied, his voice tinged with doubt. "I have consulted with countless physicians and scholars, and none have been able to offer me a cure. What makes you think that these two individuals, however skilled they may be, can succeed where others have failed?" Arthur met the king's gaze unwaveringly.

"Your Majesty, I understand your skepticism, but I have heard the miracles that they have wrought. Their methods may be unconventional, but their results speak for themselves. I implore you to at least give them a chance to demonstrate their abilities. What have we to lose?" Baldwin considered Arthur's words carefully, weighing the potential risks and rewards of seeking help from these unconventional healers. After a moment of contemplation, he nodded slowly.

"Very well, Arthur. If you believe that they can help, then I shall trust your judgment. Bring them to me, and we shall see what they have to offer."

With a sense of relief, Arthur bowed respectfully before the king. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will seek them out tomorrow."

Arthur's concern for the king ran deep. As a trusted advisor and confidant to the king, Arthur had witnessed firsthand the challenges and burdens that the young king had faced since ascending to the throne at such a tender age.

Baldwin's reign had been marked by turmoil and uncertainty, with the constant threat of conflict and unrest looming over the kingdom. Despite his affliction with leprosy, Baldwin had displayed remarkable courage and resilience in the face of adversity, earning the respect and admiration of his subjects.

For Arthur, seeing the king endure such hardships only strengthened his resolve to support and protect him to the best of his abilities. He had dedicated himself wholeheartedly to serving Baldwin and the kingdom, acting as a steady hand in times of crisis and a voice of reason amid the chaos of court politics.

Arthur's loyalty to the king went beyond mere duty; it was born out of a genuine affection and admiration for Baldwin as both a ruler and a person. He admired Baldwin's strength of character and his unwavering commitment to his people, and he would do whatever it took to ensure the king's well-being and the stability of the realm.