Medicine | King Baldwin

33

"Your Majesty." Simon addressed Baldwin with a respectful tone as they strolled side by side into the council chamber, the echoes of their footsteps reverberating against the opulent walls. "Did you truly mean what you said last night?" he asked.

At the mention of his question, Baldwin's gaze flickered with a hint of curiosity before recognition dawned upon him, transforming his expression into a concealed grin beneath his mask.

"I do indeed mean it." the king declared with a depth of sincerity in his voice, his eyes reflecting his unwavering resolve. "I am determined to take Isabel as my wife." Simon's surprise was evident as he absorbed the king's words.

"Baldwin." he began, his voice tinged with respect. "This decision carries great significance. Have you considered the implications it may have for the kingdom?" The man nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging the weight of Simon's inquiry.

"It's true that Isabel's lineage isn't one of wealth." Baldwin started, his voice carrying a solemn tone. "But her background holds no sway over my feelings. You see.. to me, she embodies something far more profound. Being with her stirs a sense of hope within me that I haven't felt in years. In her presence, doubts and fears dissipate, as if they were mere shadows in the light of her existence. It's not about her family's status but rather the depth of connection and the profound impact she has on my soul." He finished.

Simon's gaze softened as he watched his friend speak with such sincerity about his feelings for Isabel. It warmed his heart to see Baldwin, his childhood companion, finding happiness. However, beneath his smile, a thread of apprehension lingered. He couldn't help but worry about the potential repercussions of the king's decision within the intricate web of palace politics and dynamics. While he wished nothing but the best for his friend, he knew all too well the complexities that awaited them both in the wake of such a significant announcement.

"Well, my friend.." Simon began, his voice infused with a mixture of empathy and conviction as he laid a comforting hand on the king's shoulder. "It's clear to me that you're deeply in love. And you know what? Love is a force not to be trifled with. Marry the one who sets your soul on fire, the one who brings light into your life, not the one who might be chosen out of obligation or duty." Baldwin met Simon's gaze, gratitude flickering in his eyes for his friend's understanding. In that moment, a weight seemed to lift from his shoulders as he absorbed Simon's words of wisdom.

"Thank you." the king said, his voice filled with gratitude, before they stepped into the council chamber where councilors and archbishops awaited them.

The king settled into his customary seat, a position he always occupied during such gatherings, while the other members stood respectfully in front of him.

"What are you doing at the council meeting, Mother?" Baldwin asked, his voice tinged with surprise and a hint of disapproval, when he noticed Agnes standing among the crowd. Ever since Baldwin had ascended to the throne, he had taken over his mother's position on the council. This transition was meant to signify a shift in authority, and seeing her there now, after he had assumed her role, made him uneasy and displeased.

"I believe I still have a place on the council after all these years. Don't you think so?" Agnes replied, her tone firm yet calm as she met Baldwin's gaze steadily.

"Hm.." he replied curtly, his tone leaving no room for further discussion. With a final, dismissive glance at his mother, Baldwin turned his attention back to the pressing matters before the council. He signaled that he considered the conversation closed and redirected his focus to the significant issues that required his leadership and decision-making.

"Your Majesty, I requested this meeting primarily because there are important matters I wish to discuss with you." said Robert, an elderly advisor whose years of service extended back to the reign of King Almaric. His voice was steady as he stepped forward slightly.