Chapter 13 Tour the city (2)

She sympathised with the suffering endured by these people. The city simply couldn't provide enough opportunities or space for everyone, and it seemed that neither the various lords nor her own father cared enough to utilize these individuals for something productive.

Valarissa's mind raced with thoughts on how to transform these refugees, who were currently wasting away and burdening the city and kingdoms, into a source of cheap labor that could strengthen her house and pave the way for cities future prosperity while also improving the living standard of these people.

However, her father's support was crucial for everything, just as she needed authority and assistance to establish herself in this city. After all, King's Landing City was filled with the various noble's watchful eyes, secretive sects lurking, and hidden dangers for the poor. There were numerous problems to contend with. She aimlessly wandered outside, feeling a sense of numbness.

After gaining a better understanding of the city's situation, they decided to walk around and explore the surrounding areas outside the city walls. Valarissa led the knights as they traveled southwest, following the path that led to the Kingswood. They carefully surveyed the land all the way to the river in the southwest. The majority of the land was unused, and while the soil wasn't exceptionally fertile, it wasn't poor either.

Valarissa explored the city of Rosby, the bustling port city of Duskendale, and Anthers, the neighboring villages . Despite the port's large size and developments, it had numerous deficiencies. The roads that connected these cities were merely muddy paths that lacked proper maintenance.

After witnessing these shortcomings, Valarissa formulated an initial plan of action. However, in order to successfully execute her plan, she now needed to persuade her father. This task proved challenging as she was still a ten-year-old child and, above all, a female.

Valarissa knew that she had to find a way to convince her father of the importance of her plan. She understood that her father and his small council being a traditionalist, might dismiss her ideas simply because she was a young girl.

Valarissa made the decision to return, fully aware that she would not be able to persuade her father through mere words alone. She understood that the most effective way to convey her intentions was to meticulously document each of her plans and their long-term implications in a project report.

As the evening approached, Valarissa hurriedly made her way back to the red keep, foregoing lunch in the process. Once she had dismissed the knights her sister had assigned to her, she retreated to her chamber.

Upon her arrival, the maids entered her chamber but, upon seeing Valarissa engrossed in her writing and lost in deep contemplation, they wisely refrained from disturbing her.

Valarissa carefully prioritized three crucial matters that required her attention. Firstly, she needed her father's approval to utilize all the barren and unused land. Secondly, she aimed to establish orphanages and recruit individuals from various professions to educate these children, thereby cultivating a pool of diverse talents. Lastly, she recognized the significance of the city watch, or her uncle Deamon's gold cloaks.

Once her uncle departs from Kingslanding, she knew that this force would gradually diminish in value and strength. Despite being aware of their loyalty towards her uncle, she firmly believed that he would never take any actions that would harm her or her family. The current members of the city watch are devoted, well-equipped defenders and enforcers of House Targaryen.

She was determined not to lose them simply because her uncle lacked control over his words.

With this in mind, she retrieved the map she had marked with the lands she required and the specific area of the city she intended to purchase. Additionally, she outlined her plan to recruit individuals and detailed how she would treat those she enlisted. Valarissa acknowledged that she did not possess sufficient gold to undertake such a grand endeavor. However, she did possess a space that provided her with an abundance of food reserves to utilize without restraint.

The majority of individuals who engage in unlawful activities and theft are those who lack alternative means of survival.

For the inhabitants of this urban center, who are willing to take the risk of being apprehended by the local authorities in order to sustain themselves, Valarissa was certain that at least 60% of these individuals would gladly abandon their criminal ways if provided with three meals a day and compensation in the form of food supplies.

Another aspect to consider was the establishment of orphanages and the recruitment of skilled professionals, which necessitated a substantial amount of actual currency. Valarissa alone could not handle the financial burden and thus required either a loan or assistance from her father.

Lastly, Valarissa needed to persuade her father, uncle, and the small council to grant her access to the city watch, a force she believed was crucial for her initiatives. In her report's conclusion, she outlined the numerous advantages and transformative changes that her endeavors could bring to both the city and House Targaryen within a span of five years.

Valarissa emphasized that by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as poverty and lack of opportunities, the city could experience a significant decrease in unlawful activities. With alternative means of survival, individuals would no longer feel compelled to resort to theft and other illegal activities.

Furthermore, the establishment of orphanages would provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who may otherwise be vulnerable to criminal influences. By investing in their education and providing them with proper care, the city could break the cycle of poverty and crime, giving these children a chance at a better future.

Valarissa also highlighted the importance of recruiting skilled professionals to support her initiatives. By bringing in experts in fields such as social work, counseling, and vocational training, the city could provide comprehensive support to individuals seeking to leave their criminal past behind. These professionals would play a crucial role in guiding and assisting individuals in their journey towards lawful and productive lives.