Zoella Martell's Chambers

[brigida]

"Zoella, I know you are up to the task. You are a brave and intelligent your woman--Lord Fowler will be here to guide you, and we will be in constant contact, I assure you...It is probable that I will able to run most of the common politics of Dorne from King's Landing. You, I apologize to inform you, dear cousin, will be left with the rest of the stately responsibilties in my absence...you must write me if you have any questions, dear Zoella...and, as always, if you object, or have fear about this change, I will forgo it." She said solemnly, gravely aware that the implications of this decision would have a profound effect on both of their lives.

[ashalind]

"I'm afraid bad fate forces us to lead our lives apart, dear cousin. If you want to accept the offer of Lord Blackwood, if you think it might be for the good, do not hesitate for my sake. I promise to do my utmost to rule in your absence. Lord Fowler will be a precious advisor but still I would like to have the possibility to send you ravens or pigeons at least once a week.

I would also like to consult you about the issue of Lord Frey's money, when I still have the opportunity to talk to you."
Here Zoella's voice faltered a bit, but soon she recovered enough to be able to speak normally.

"I was informed by Farryn that the stubborn man doesn't want to take them back as I've suggested to him several times, he ceded it to the Glass Bank of Dorne. I bet it is his way to not to lose his face. Well, the sum is big enough to keep the whole Dorne running for at least one year, it's a shame to keep it, though. On the other hand, it's a stupidity not to use it while we can. What would be your advice?"

[brigida]

"It is a hard question to solve, Dear Cousin--I am not one to harbor debts, particularly to those who may begrudge me something. With such a large investment, Lord Frey would own a large portion of out economy...Although it would be tremendously helpfful in the restoration process, my answer would have to be to return the money regardless; I do not like to think that such a portion of Dorne could be held by a foreigner...However, it is your choice, Zoella...this bank is your creation, and you understand its subtlties far better than I. I am confident you will be able to make the right choice."

[ashalind]

"How could I return the money to him if he doesn't want to take them? Anyway, he stated that the money is ours, so there's not a question of him owning it any more. He threw the gold away like a dirty shirt and I don't doubt he will boast about it. I've been thinking of sending him his share in the profits, though, so he couldn't say he was the man that made Dorne rich. I've never imagined in my life that I might have so many problems with having too much money" Zoella finished with a bitter smile.

"Enough of it, though. You must prepare yourself for your journey and rest a bit. Let me supervise the preparations so I can be sure you'll lack nothing in King's Landing."

[brigida]

"Very well." she answered, suddenly tired, "You have been too kind, and too helpful, Dear Zoella." Tristeza smiled nostaligically at her young cousin, as she stood slowly, and departed--she slept deeply, washed, an fed before she departed once more for King's Landing.