Transforming Westeros Under the Targaryen Crown: Policy Reforms to Ensure Stability and Prosperity

If I were to become the king of Westeros instead of Robert, my primary goal would be to lay the foundation for a stable and prosperous realm. This would involve a series of policy and administrative reforms that focus on currency stability, the establishment of a just legal system, and significant infrastructure improvements. Let's delve into these areas in detail.

Currency Reform: Creating a Tangible Economic Regime

My first order of business would be to introduce a stable and unified currency system for Westeros. This involves the creation of an actual currency with paper money and a base-ten denomination, backed by the gold stored in the newly established Westerosi Bank, a consolidation of the former royal treasury and recalled precious metal currencies. This would significantly enhance royal control over the economy, ensuring that only the monarchy can legally issue tender, thus curbing counterfeiting and streamlining trade.

Additionally, I would negotiate treaties with the Lannisters and other precious metal-producing houses. By setting a specific value for gold and silver, and nationalizing their reserves, I can ensure a consistent monetary policy that benefits both the realm and the houses by providing a stable economic framework.

Establishing a Just Legal System: The Pillar of Order

A robust and codified legal system is essential for maintaining order and quelling dissent. Therefore, I would establish a formal criminal justice system with codified laws and punishments. I would appoint royal judges and sheriffs to oversee the administration of law across Westeros. This would ensure that all smallfolk adhere to the same set of laws, removing the influence of local lords and lords of the manors, which could lead to corruption and injustice.

Improving King's Landing: Infrastructure and Entertainment

The capital city, King's Landing, would undergo significant improvements. The fortifications would be modified to resemble the Theodosian walls, designed to withstand sieges effectively. A new sewage system and clean water sources, along with public bathhouses, would improve the living conditions of the populace. The Red Keep would be demolished, and a new, grand royal palace would be constructed, complete with a court and administrative buildings. Public entertainment venues such as a hippodrome and coliseum would be built to promote public morale and reduce social unrest.

The Sept of Baelor would be restored and strengthened to ensure the support of the religious authorities. Additionally, a new deep-water harbor would be established to boost maritime trade and economic prosperity.

Administrative and Economic Reforms

Administrative reforms would streamline governance and ensure that the benefits of the crown are distributed equitably. All Targaryen loyalist houses in the Crownlands and Riverlands would be deposed, with Harrenhal being given to House Tully to strengthen their position in the region. The rest of the lands would be incorporated into an expanded royal demesne.

To curb private war fleets, I would abolish the private fleets of houses, compelling them to sell their ships to the royal navy, convert them to merchant vessels, or forfeit their lands and titles. This would centralize maritime power and ensure that the seas are safe for all Westerosi, without the risk of piracy.

A parliamentary system with a House of Lords and a House of Commons would be established, providing population-based representation. The Westerosi peerage would be reformed into a system more like the British peerage, with distinct titles to differentiate between houses.

Military Reforms: Stabilizing the Realm

Military reforms would also be critical to ensure the stability of Westeros. A standing Royal Army, patterned after the Eastern Roman Army, would be created, comprising professional infantry and cavalry, along with an elite Northern guard. Seven Kingsgards would not be sufficient to control the realm, so each ducal house responsible for maintaining royal armies in times of war would be established. House Stark, due to the threats north of the Wall, would be responsible for raising and maintaining troops, subject to royal command.

The Royal Navy would be reorganized into three fleets, each comprising ten task forces with specific ship allocations. A rapid response force would be kept in King's Landing for quick intervention. A Royal War College would be established to train naval and army officers, ensuring that both the army and navy are well-prepared for any challenges.

Tax Reform: Financial Stability for the Realm

Tax reform is crucial for ensuring financial stability. Every lord would pay a flat 10% tax on all incomes. Lords producing precious metals would pay 5% if they sell their gold and silver to the royal bank. Foreign merchant ships would be taxed at 5%, while Westerosi merchants would be taxed 2% on each sale.

Infrastructure Improvements: A Nation's Foundation

Infrastructure improvements would be essential for the long-term prosperity of Westeros. A new road network modeled after Roman roads would connect major castles and cities, with plans laid for smaller connections. City charters would be granted to various coastal and river cities, each with a city government appointed by the crown.

The Crossing would be nationalized to ensure its importance is not left to the unreliable vassals. Salt works in Blackwater Bay and glassworks in the city would provide additional revenue for the treasury. Aqueducts and public works would be constructed across the nation to enhance the quality of life for all subjects.

Small Measures and Future Endeavors

Smaller programs and initiatives would also be undertaken. Certain individuals, such as Mountain and Amory Lorch, would be tried for regicide, and the Small Council would be reformed to include departments for foreign relations and regional representatives. The Iron Islands would have a viceroy appointed, and the Dornish would be watched closely. Daenerys and Viserys would be recovered, with Daenerys as a ward in King's Landing and Viserys sent north to Winterfell to join the Night's Watch when he is old enough. A university and library would be established in King's Landing, and exploration missions would be sent to the West, South, and Valyria. A code of human rights would be written up, and alliances would be formed with Braavos. An expeditionary force would be sent to take Andalos and the Stepstones, while efforts would be made to abolish slavery in the free cities. Finally, the development of inventions like steam engines, compasses, and gunpowder would be encouraged.

By implementing these reforms, I would lay the groundwork for a Westeros that is united, prosperous, and stable for generations to come.

Keywords: currency reform, legal system, infrastructure improvement