Medicine | King Baldwin

26

"Saladin has an army of 200,000 men stationed solely in Damascus." Arthur, the king's loyal aide, explained as he, the King, William, and several other advisors convened in the grand hall. "If we choose to engage him in battle, he possesses the strength to overwhelm us." the man continued, his tone reflecting the gravity of the situation.

"Your Majesty, if we declare war on him, we will muster every able-bodied man, boy, and soldier." declared Guy de Lusignan with determined fervor.

"Have you gone mad?" William asked nervously. "Haven't you been listening? He would overrun us, and not just us, but the entire Kingdom of Jerusalem." Arthur nodded in agreement with William.

"We must consider our strategy carefully. A direct confrontation with Saladin could spell disaster for all of us." Arthur cautioned.

"William and Arthur are right. Engaging Saladin's forces head-on is a perilous course of action. Our strength lies not just in our swords but in our ability to navigate the complexities of diplomacy." The king paused, letting his words sink in.

"If you and Raynald hadn't attacked the Saracen caravan, we wouldn't be here debating how to defend ourselves against Saladin." William's words hung heavy in the tense atmosphere of the hall as he talked to Guy.

"That was an opportunity to weaken Saladin's forces." he retorted defensively. "We cannot afford to pass up such chances in times of war." The offended man's jaw clenched in response to William's accusation.

"Regardless of the past, we must focus on the present and the future." The king intervened, his tone calm yet firm. "We cannot change what has already transpired, but we can control our actions moving forward. Let us not dwell on past mistakes." The tension in the room remained palpable as the advisors contemplated their next move.

"Your Majesty, it's becoming increasingly evident that Guy and Raynald are actively seeking to inflame the Templars, goading them into precipitating hostilities against the Saracens." Arthur leaned in closer to the king, his voice lowered but deliberately audible enough for Guy to hear.

"The peace treaty with Saladin remains steadfast." declared the king, his voice carrying the weight of authority. "However, despite our commitment to peace, he still expects reparation, punishment for those responsible." His words hung in the air, emphasizing the delicate balance they were striving to maintain between upholding their agreements with Saladin.

"Then what are we waiting for, Your Majesty?" William's voice held a note of urgency. "Let us not allow this discord to fester any longer. It is clear that both Guy and Raynald pose a threat to the stability of our kingdom and the integrity of our agreements with Saladin. Exile them both!" The king regarded William with a measured expression, acknowledging his suggestion. It was indeed a drastic step, but one that might be necessary to preserve the fragile peace they had worked so hard to achieve.

"Be careful what you say, Archbishop." Guy threatened, his tone laced with menace. "I have done more for this kingdom than you ever will!" With those bitter words, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the hall.

The other advisors exchanged uneasy glances, silently acknowledging the rift that had widened between Guy and the rest of the council.

"Be patient." Baldwin counseled William, his voice steady and resolute. "Whether through the actions of mortals or the workings of destiny, rest assured that the wheels of justice are always in motion. In due time, every wrongdoer will face the consequences of their deeds." His words carried a sense of solemn assurance, reminding all present that justice, though sometimes delayed, would ultimately prevail.

While the men continued their political and diplomatic deliberations, Isabel and Asif worked diligently in the workchamber, immersed in their tasks.

Asif had recovered for that day, so he was able to work. The atmosphere was filled with the spirit of hard work and collaboration. She skillfully managed every technical task while he assisted her with the assignments.