Chapter 15 Conversation 2

Veserys, adopting a composed tone, suggested, "Let us set aside these matters for now, my daughter, and instead, tell me what you hope to achieve through all of this."

"I am determined to strengthen our family and the Royal authority, father. Currently, we govern the seven kingdoms with the help of our dragons, and I am just ensuring that even in the absence of dragons, we can continue to maintain our rule," Valarissa confidently stated.

"What do you mean, my dear daughter? We rule the seven kingdoms not solely because of the dragons, but also because of the loyalty of our subjects," Veserys corrected his daughter.

"No, father, you are mistaken. They are loyal to us because they fear our dragons, and I can assure you that the day we lose our dragons will mark the beginning of the downfall of our dynasty," Valarissa argued.

"Even if that is the case, why are you so concerned? We still have dragons," Veserys questioned, looking at his daughter.

"I heard that you have ordered uncle Deamon to leave Kingslanding, and from this, I deduced that you plan to name Rhaenyra as the heir," Valarissa asked completely out of topic.

He did not deny her words. "Yes, I intend to officially announce it tomorrow."

"Naming Rhaenyra as the heir will cause turmoil, father. And if my sister wishes to ascend the throne, she cannot rely solely on dragons," Valarissa pointed out.

"You are mistaken, Valarissa," Veserys replied.

"Would I still be mistaken if you were to have a son, father? A son who would be of the right age and have a grandfather who is already ambitious for power and blinded by the Iron Throne," Valarissa questioned.

Veserys stood up. "Look at me, Valarissa. What do you mean? Tell me, daughter. I have been a king and I have observed people, and from your words, I sense no doubt but certainty as if you know what will happen. Tell me, what do you know?"

"I am not here to prophesise, father. I am here to inquire whether you are willing to place your trust in your daughter. Trust her and support her in fulfilling her desire to assist the people of this city," Valarissa asked.

"I aim to prove that the Targaryens are not merely conquerors and rulers with a giant lizard, but also possess the capacity for empathy. We have the means to establish camps, provide sustenance and shelter, offer medical assistance, and aid in rebuilding their lives. I firmly believe that if we extend kindness during their time of need, they will remember it. They will not only express gratitude but may also develop loyalty towards us in the future, engraving our House Targaryen in their minds as their rulers." Valarissa spoke confidently.

Veserys observed his daughter's unwavering gaze, realizing he would not receive any other response from her. "What if I were to reject your proposal?" he questioned.

"In that case, I will pray for you and congratulate my sister before departing for Dragonstone. I believe my uncle would be happy connected me to other lord's and let them give me an oppertunity to give me a chance to prove myself," Valarissa stated.

"No! Need, You make a compelling case, my daughter. And I must admit, I am proud of you for wanting to make a difference.

However, you must also understand the risks involved. King's Landing is not an easy place to navigate, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. There are those who would see you fail, and those who would take advantage of your good intentions. You must be cautious, Valarissa. Always."

"I understand, father. But I believe that with your guidance and support, I can make a real difference. And I won't let anyone stand in the way of that," she said firmly. "Together, we can help these people while also instilling Targaryen as a sign of hope and prosperity."

"Okay I'm will support you on your second proposal of building orphanages for the children and also give you the gold dragons required for it operation" Veserys stated.

"No don't need the crowns involvement in my actions, I only need a loan " Valarissa insisted."Very well, I will grant you a loan of 100,000 gold dragons. But remember, the debt must be repaid within five years as you wanted. I trust you will not take this lightly, as it is the kingdom's money that your are speaking of now" her father warned her.

Father, I appreciate word's, but I have a purpose for being here and I am determined not to give up. Please enlighten me on the reasons behind your rejection of the other two proposals.

"Father, I comprehend the magnitude of this plan, but I am confident that through effective organization and efficient management, it can be accomplished. I am prepared to dedicate myself tirelessly to its realization. Regarding the recruitment of individuals, I am willing to personally undertake the task, should it be necessary. I do not seek complete financial support from the crown, but rather its endorsement through a reduction in taxes for the initial five years, as well as an edict granting me the authority to develop the unproductive and vacant lands surrounding Kingslanding."

Valarissa gazed at her father, her countenance displaying a sense of gravity and resolve.

"Father, I have already established agreements with various merchants and farmers throughout the kingdom. They have expressed their willingness to supply me with the necessary food and provisions. I have already made the initial payment using all of my wealth, and the first shipment is expected to arrive in King's Landing within a span of ten days."

Upon witnessing her father's indecision, she reiterated, "Father, King's Landing is not only the crown land but also the capital city of our Dynasty. It is meant to embody the essence of our reign, yet observe the state of the city that should serve as the epicenter of politics, progress, and power."

"The city is populated by destitute refugees from various parts of the kingdom, emitting an unpleasant odor, plagued by criminal activities and spies. There is a complete absence of law and order, as well as a lack of organized governance or policies in place."