Medicine | King Baldwin

51

Isabel and Jurian moved swiftly toward each other, the distance between them vanishing as they approached. When they finally reached one another, they embraced tightly, a warm hug that seemed to bridge the months of separation. It was a simple gesture, yet it held profound meaning as if they were trying to make up for the time they had been apart.

Her heart filled with joy, and the unease that had been troubling her gradually melted away, replaced by the comforting presence of her old friend. He felt the same, relishing the familiar closeness he had missed for so long. As they slowly released each other, smiles spread across their faces, reflecting the happiness and peace brought by their reunion.

"I thought I'd never see you again." Isabel blurted out. She took a step back, giving herself a moment to fully take in the sight of Jurian standing before her.

"I told you I'd return." replied Jurian. As he spoke, Baldwin stepped closer to them, his presence calm and composed.

"Your reputation precedes your appearance." the king remarked. Baldwin's voice carried respect, and his words were both a compliment and an acknowledgment of the stories he'd heard about Jurian.

"Your Majesty." He stammered awkwardly as he bowed, his movements slightly uncoordinated. "I was informed by a Lord that my companion and I have been provided accommodations within the palace." He glanced at Isabel, as if still processing the fact that he was standing in the royal halls, conversing with a king.

"Indeed." Baldwin replied. "I trust you have settled in comfortably." He observed Jurian closely, noting the man's initial awkwardness, yet also the genuine gratitude in his eyes.

"Yes, Your Majesty. We are grateful for your generosity." Jurian continued to bow, his nervousness evident.

"Don't thank me." Baldwin said, turning his attention toward the girl. "You should thank Isabel." As he spoke, Isabel's face lit up with a beaming smile, her eyes sparkling with genuine happiness. She had been eagerly anticipating the reunion and her pleasure was evident in her warm expression.

"She knows how grateful I am." Jurian said with a warm smile, his gaze fixed on his friend.

"Get some rest, you must be tired." the girl said gently. She knew that after their long journey, Jurian and his companion would need time to recuperate.

"Indeed, I am quite exhausted. The long journey has taken its toll." He responded with a nod. "If you'll excuse me, I shall take my leave." As Baldwin and Isabel both nodded in acknowledgment, he made his way out of the grand hall, his steps echoing softly against the stone floor.

"I never thought I would see him again." Isabel said, turning her head toward the door, where only the vacant space of her friend's departure remained.

"But now he's here, and that's all that matters." Baldwin said gently, placing a hand on her arm.

Isabel's face brightened as she turned to look at him, her eyes still reflecting the joy of reuniting with her friend.

"Yes, he's finally here." she agreed with relief.

"Let's head back. I imagine you must be quite hungry after such a day." At that moment, as if on cue, her stomach gave a conspicuous growl, causing her to blush.

She glanced up at Baldwin, who couldn't help but smile at the timing. She chuckled softly, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"Yes, I suppose I am." she admitted, her laughter mingling with his.

Upon returning to the king's chamber, they settled onto cushions surrounding a spacious floor table laden with a sumptuous array of food. The table was a feast for the eyes, covered with an impressive spread of delicacies, fresh fruits, and a variety of enticing dishes.