Chapter 14: The Courtesan of Braavos

When Viserys first arrived in Braavos, he was focused on restoring his kingdom and searching for potential allies. Thus, when Helbo mentioned Falia, Viserys immediately knew who she was. Falia, known as Moonshadow, was a prominent figure among the elite courtesans of Braavos.

Braavos, with its bustling business community, hosted numerous gatherings, creating a niche for social butterflies who bridged the gap between wealthy businessmen and influential individuals. These high-end courtesans facilitated deals and alliances with their charm and intelligence, sometimes even establishing their own businesses.

Reputation was paramount among these courtesans, and they employed "protective swordsmen" to maintain their honor. These bodyguards came from two main sources: suitors who were deeply in love with the courtesans, or hired swordsmen. The latter were necessary when suitors lacked the skills to defend their honor. These protective swordsmen were similar to the loyal knights who followed noblewomen in Westeros, such as Jorah Mormont or the leader of the Second Sons.

High-end courtesans, like Falia, were distinct from their lower-end counterparts who traded their bodies for financial gain and could be compared to medieval prostitutes. Falia, however, was a respected figure with numerous wealthy merchants vying for her favor. She was also a favorite in the Ten-Day Festival's beauty contest, reflecting her high status and wealth.

After Helbo's introduction, Viserys immediately accepted the job. He needed to save money to buy dragon eggs and strengthen himself as quickly as possible. Recently, he had a dream of a man in black crossing the sea, which he interpreted as a sign that Robert Baratheon had sent another assassin.

"In that case, I'll take you there tomorrow?" Helbo offered.

"Of course, no problem." Viserys agreed readily, surprising Helbo.

Helbo was uncertain about Viserys taking on the bodyguard job. He knew it wasn't glamorous work, much like debt collection, but he remembered how Viserys had been fixated on restoring his kingdom. The young man's reputation for spending money to entertain himself was well-known, making him a laughing stock in Braavos and the Free Cities.

Helbo doubted Viserys would be comfortable working as a guard, given the significant difference in prestige.

To his surprise, Viserys agreed readily. "Is he trying to save up to buy an army?" Helbo muttered to himself. It didn't seem to be a very good idea to him.

Even after climbing into the carriage, he couldn't help but look back, puzzled by Viserys's eagerness.

Helbo had recently expanded his operations, partly due to acquiring Banergar's shares. His earnings had increased, and he now managed nearly fifty men, none of whom matched Viserys's prowess. He had moved into a better house with water piped in directly from the Long Canal, a status symbol in Braavos.

Viserys had considered the same for his home but abandoned the idea upon learning the pipes were made of lead. He tried to persuade Helbo of the health risks, but Helbo saw it as a mark of status and dismissed his concerns.

As the saying goes, it's hard to convince a stubborn mind. Viserys had to respect Helbo's decision, even if he disagreed with it.

The next day, Helbo arrived in his carriage to pick up Viserys. Anticipating potential conflicts, Viserys was prepared. He wore a suit of leather armor, with a dagger and crossbow at his waist and a pair of two-handed swords on his back. His Constitution was nearing the level of a healthy adult, and he wondered if reaching the next level would bring a similar surge of strength as his skill advancements.

If Viserys had once resembled a tall but bare sapling upon his first arrival in Braavos, he now stood like a spear. His body was straight, and after cutting his hair short, his facial features appeared less sinister and more handsome.

"Brother, when will you be back?" Dany asked, already reluctant to let him go before he had even left the house.

"Maybe it will be a few days. You should study more, practice more, eat fewer snacks, sleep more, and don't run around," Viserys replied.

"Oh." Dany nodded, having begged him to take her along the previous night, but he had refused.

To ensure her safety, Viserys instructed Helbo to leave someone behind to keep watch and maintain constant contact. He could return home immediately if anything happened.

Soon, the two of them arrived at a small harbor.

"Take the boat! It's only three iron coins to Greenwater Town!"

"One, two, one, two..."

"Fresh onions! Just arrived from the mainland!"

"Hey, m'lord..."

As a city of a thousand islands, Braavos had a dense network of waterways. Shipping was an integral part of life. Boatmen touted their services, bare-chested porters hauled goods, and vendors hawked their wares. Even prostitutes flirted with potential customers.

Viserys and Helbo walked through the bustling crowd and boarded a boat at a small harbor. Bald Regis was giving a speech to a group of newcomers when he saw Viserys and Helbo arrive. He quickly put on a somewhat cheap smile.

"M'lord Viserys, M'lord Helbo."

When Viserys first joined Helbo, Regis had been a bit upset. He thought Viserys had ambushed him and didn't believe that he had killed the fierce fish Banergar. Viserys had volunteered to accept his challenge at any time. Initially, Regis held his own due to his weight, but as time passed, Viserys easily knocked him down with just one hand. Afterwards, Viserys taught him a few tricks, earning Regis's respect and admiration even more than his boss, Helbo.

Viserys glanced down and saw about thirty people in total, with four boats between them. He and Helbo sat in one boat while the others filled the remaining boats. Although it was a bit crowded, no one complained. Stretching out their legs was a privilege reserved for the big boss.

Among the group, Viserys stood out. Not only was he tall and well-proportioned, but his silver hair was also eye-catching. Along the way, young wives and girls couldn't help but take a second look. Soon, someone recognized his identity.

"Don't stare, silly girl. He's the fierce fish eater!"

"The fierce fish eater?"

Those who recognized Viserys whispered about his deeds to those around them. Some timid girls covered their mouths, looking at him in disbelief. A young man who appeared gentle and scholarly could actually be so ruthless.

However, once they left the town of Bitterwell, Viserys's reputation was not as well known. By noon, Helbo and his party arrived in the town of White Sails, where the candle workshop was located.

On the shore, a middle-aged man with a bald head and gray hair waited with a few people. Helbo saw them first and stood up to greet them. The middle-aged man slightly bowed with his hands on his chest, then personally came forward to greet him.