Medicine | King Baldwin

36

Days passed, and the hustle and bustle of the court turned the entire palace into a hive of activity. The grand jousting tournament, organized by the Regent Queen Agnes, had finally arrived. Nobles and renowned families, along with knights from all corners of the Near East, flocked to Jerusalem, where they were welcomed with warm hospitality.

The palace grounds were transformed into a vibrant scene of festivity and anticipation. Colorful banners and pennants fluttered in the breeze, each bearing the distinct heraldry of participating families and knights. The air was filled with the sounds of lively chatter, the clinking of armor, and the occasional trumpet call signaling the start of various events.

The war between Saladin and Baldwin loomed on the horizon, casting a shadow over the kingdom. The king, aware of the impending conflict, was not pleased with the tournament. However, he wished to avoid unnecessary tension with Agnes, and thus, he reluctantly agreed to the event.

"Your Majesty." said a shorter, greying man as he approached the king. Behind him stood his wife and daughter, both elegantly dressed. "It has been a long time since we last met." Baldwin turned to face the man, recognizing him immediately.

"Lord Edward." greeted Baldwin with a nod. "Indeed, it has been some time. I trust your journey from Byzantium was pleasant?" He finished.

"It was a long journey, Your Majesty, but we were well received along the way. The hospitality in your lands is unmatched."  Lord Edward sighed, his weathered face showing the marks of travel.

"I am pleased to hear that." He inclined his head.

Edward and his wife continued walking, making their way through the crowd to greet other attendees. Their daughter, however, remained in place, watching as her parents moved away. Once they were at a sufficient distance, she turned towards Baldwin.

"Tell me, do you still enjoy figs?" The girl asked as she stepped forward, her hands clasped behind her back.

"My tastes have changed over the years. Figs have become too sweet for me." Baldwin said as he turned towards the familiar young woman. "Octavia, it's a pleasure to see you within the palace walls once more." Her eyes lit up with warmth.

"I remember when we used to sneak figs by the handful." the girl laughed. "It feels like it was just yesterday." She said, walking beside him.

Octavia's honey-blonde hair cascaded in elegant waves down her shoulders, catching the light and shimmering with a subtle sheen. Her blue dress, intricate in design, highlighted the color of her eyes. The gown draped gracefully around her figure, accentuating her slender form with a touch of regal elegance. Her smile, broad and inviting, graced her face with a radiant glow, reflecting both joy and a hint of mischief.

As she glanced sideways, her gaze fell upon Baldwin. She couldn't help but reminisce about their childhood together, where even then, he had possessed a natural charm that had only deepened with the passing years. His strong and athletic build was unmistakable beneath his loose, yet refined attire, which subtly emphasized his stature and presence.

Octavia's admiration for him was evident, not only in her stolen glances but also in the subtle gestures that betrayed her fondness for the king.

"Tell me, how have your years been? I hope you missed me as much as I missed you." She said, her eyes reflecting a mixture of nostalgia.

Baldwin's expression softened at her words, though beneath his mask, he couldn't completely conceal a flicker of unease. He had cherished the carefree days of their childhood together, exploring the palace grounds and sharing innocent secrets. Octavia had always been a dear friend, someone he could trust and confide in. But as they grew older and their paths diverged, the weight of royal duties had pulled them in different directions, and upon reflection, he wondered if he had missed her as much as she seemed to have missed him.