Seeing that Jon said nothing, Bolin beside him cut in, "The earl has already sought King Robb's instructions. Your army must now follow orders as well."
"Robb."
Jon softly repeated Robb's name in his heart, unable to help recalling how, in his previous life, his business partner had turned against him halfway through their venture.
He had simply never expected power to corrupt people even faster than money. Their brotherly bond had deteriorated so quickly.
I have to jump ship. There's no way around it. Jon secretly made up his mind again.
Martin beside him also stiffened, his gaze shifting back and forth between Jon and Roose Bolton. If this truly was Robb's order, it would indeed be hard to refuse.
But Roose Bolton was clearly trying to use them up, leaving him at a loss for what to do. He could only glance quietly at Jon.
Roose Bolton immediately played the good cop. "Bolin! This is not your place to speak!" Then he turned to Jon. "Jon, this is only a suggestion. Your military talents surpass mine. If you have a better plan, please, put it forward."
Roose Bolton knew Jon was not like the others. Even with Robb's orders, he might not necessarily be able to command him.
The other lords had dared to hand their armies over to this bastard right in front of him, which showed that his authority as commander was far from secure. Commanding Jon would be even harder.
But Jon was Robb's brother, after all. As long as Jon dared refuse today, he would immediately inform Robb and let Robb pressure him.
Jon picked up a piece of dried fruit from the table and tossed it into his mouth. "My Lord Bolton, you seem to be only in your forties this year, no?