Chapter 583: The Royal Garden

Viserys' reforms aimed to dismantle the aristocratic monopoly, elevate the status of commoners, and centralize power. Traditionally, the king stood above the nobility, who stood above the commoners. Commoners swore allegiance to local lords, who in turn swore allegiance to greater lords, with the king at the pinnacle.

This system might have initially worked, but the expansive power of the nobility became a concern. Their influence grew so vast that they could easily overthrow a king whose interests did not align with theirs. Meanwhile, commoners, oppressed by entrenched noble power, suffered. Their own crops were deemed stolen if they tried to keep more for themselves, essentially "stealing" from the noble lords.

In this tug-of-war, both the royal power and the commoners found themselves victimized by the nobility. Viserys's decision to curb the power of the aristocracy naturally benefitted both the crown and the commoners.

In isolated areas, such reforms might go unnoticed. But when they become widespread, regions retaining the old ways inevitably face internal tensions. For now, Dorne, with its distinct status, may revel in its superiority. Yet, in the long run, only the Dornish nobility truly benefit, while commoners and traders fare worse than their counterparts in the reformed Seven Kingdoms.

Understanding all of this, Tyrion Lannister felt a chill down his spine. He pitied the proud Dornishmen and grew more wary of the seemingly young but cunning king. After all, Viserys, who had been navigating the treacherous waters of King's Landing from a young age, had built an empire from almost nothing. Such adaptability was his greatest gift.

As the ceremony continued, Viserys began the ennoblement of House Targaryen's members. Rhaenys Targaryen, dressed in military attire, drew her Valyrian steel sword, "Dark Sister," and knelt. Her words were too soft for the distant nobility to hear, but all strained to catch a glimpse of the renowned beauty. Many nobles dreamt of marrying her, but it was common knowledge she was reserved for the king.

Viserys then conferred upon Rhaenys the title of Duchess of Summerhall, the Targaryens' summer palace. Following that, his sister, Daenerys Targaryen, was named Duchess of Dragonstone, traditionally an honor for the heir apparent. This sparked murmurs, as many had expected the title for Princess Daenerys would signify her as the heir, especially with Rhaenys being named Duchess of Summerhall.

However, the biggest surprise awaited. The long-neglected Riverlands would be integrated into the royal domain, and Highgarden would serve as the royal family's private garden.