After the conversation between Viserys and Rhaenyra, the tension that had filled the room earlier dissipated, allowing Rhaenyra to feel a renewed sense of purpose and determination. She resolved to find a partner who would love her for who she was, rather than for her title or the prospect of bearing Valyrian babies.
One name kept lingering in Rhaenyra's mind: William Baratheon. She noticed that he didn't care about her princess status or her title as the heir to the iron throne. He spoke to her with unabashed honesty, and she found herself enjoying his company more and more.
Rhaenyra, who had never imagined finding solace in the company of a man, began to consider the possibility of William playing a significant role in her life. Lost in her thoughts, she realized that she needed to discuss her father's proposal with him. William had always been honest, and she valued his perspective, even if it sometimes infuriated her.
Excusing herself from her father's presence, Rhaenyra made her way to William's chamber. As she entered, she found him sitting by the window, gazing out at the city below. Upon seeing her, a smile formed on his lips.
"Rhaenyra, you're back," he greeted, his eyes reflecting genuine interest. "I heard your father wanted to speak with you. How did it go?"
Approaching him with a smile of her own, Rhaenyra took a seat beside him. "It was... unexpected, to say the least," she admitted. "He apologized for his past actions and expressed his desire for my happiness."
There was a brief pause before Rhaenyra continued, her voice filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty. "He wants me to choose my own match," she revealed, searching William's eyes for understanding. "He wants me to find someone who pleases me, someone who will stand by my side as we strive for the Iron Throne."
A range of emotions flickered across William's face, this was a change, was this because of the butterfly effect? But William quickly composed himself. "That's... a significant offer," he said carefully. Then he continued, "What do you intend to do? "He asked.
Rhaenyra met his gaze, her determination shining through. "I want you to be my advisor, not just for this matter but for others as well," she confessed.
William took a moment to collect his thoughts, realizing that this opportunity could bring him closer to Rhaenyra than ever before. Taking a deep breath William responded, "If you want that, Rhaenyra, I am more than happy to be your advisor," he said, "And as for the marriage, you are an extraordinary woman. You deserve a partner who truly sees you, who supports your dreams and ambitions. I believe that person is out there, waiting for you to find them. But ultimately, the decision rests with you."
Gratitude filled Rhaenyra's heart as she nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you, William," she whispered, her voice conveying her appreciation. "I'll speak to father to tell lord boremund that you will stay here from now on and be my advisor."
With that, William and Rhaenyra spent the rest of the time chatting, and laughing. Sharing stories from their pasts and opening up to each other.