Born in Flames || Game of Thrones

Chapter XLII ''A story''

Walking near the main gate - which was open all the time now, people and carts coming in and out - neither Visenya nor Robb saw Varys, Tyrion and Davos standing on the walls, the latter of whom put forward a proposition he had been discussing with Robb some time ago.

"If by some miracle we survive the battle with the Night King, couldn't the Seven Kingdoms be ruled by a just Queen and an honorable King for once in their shitty history? For once, someone who cares about people's well-being?" he suggested.

Tyrion moved closer to the walls so he could look out over them at two people walking along the road leading to the castle, talking about something.

"They make a pretty couple. But I don't think it could work." he quickly added the second sentence, turning and looking at Davos.

Visenya left Daario with the idea that she couldn't sail to Westeros with her lover, that she would have to marry someone to form an alliance, but so far, nothing like that has happened. He had only broached the subject with her once, back in Meereen. He thought she understood his approach, but now... She didn't seem interested in marriage, but it wasn't even about the available candidates, more about what effect it would have.

She didn't want to have a husband because she wanted to prove that she could handle ruling herself. She knew the mentality of the people of Westeros, especially the Lords. Many of them believe that women are not fit to rule, and she wants to meet this and prove them wrong. She probably believed she can't do it if she had a husband, and Tyrion understood that point of view.

Moreover, there was also the matter of characters. Would they really be a good match? He didn't know Robb's character very well, but he knew perfectly well how stubborn Visenya could be. Could they get along?

"Even apart from how this relationship might develop, you overestimate our influence. Neither of them wants to listen to old, lonely people. We can advise, but you should know how difficult it is sometimes to dissuade some ideas." Varys added. He also had doubts about how this relationship would develop, whether it would really have a bright future ahead of it.

"I'm not that old." Tyrion replied. "At least not as old as he is." he pointed his head at Davos, who just smiled ironically. "The Queen respects the wisdom that comes with age."

"Only if she's not sure of herself. Otherwise, she may listen to what we have to say, but she will still do what she thinks is right." Varys noted. "The vast majority of young people do this. Even if they follow the advice, they like to distance themselves so as not to be reminded that nothing lasts forever and they too will be old one day."

The two they were watching and talking about moved on, disappearing from sight.

"I don't remember it ever being so busy here, even when the King came." Robb said.

They talked about everything and nothing. They couldn't seem to find a good topic today.

Or maybe Visenya just wasn't in the mood? She didn't feel good here, but she didn't want to share these thoughts, because it wouldn't change anything in her opinion. Why should she complain to him that no one accepts her here and everyone closely follows her every move as if she were some unpredictable animal? It wouldn't change anything because he can't influence their feelings towards her. She has to give them time and show her good side, but she feels that she will feel like an unwelcome guest for a long time...

Although she tried to feel at ease around Robb, it was impossible when there were so many people around she didn't know and she could feel their eyes on her.

"The market square in the capital was about that crowded. There are always lots of people there."

He didn't push to continue the conversation, especially since he didn't know what to say. Instead of saying anything, he would like to hug her, seeing how uncomfortable she feels. That's the least he could do for her, even though he's not even sure she wouldn't push him away.