Aegon watched the Iron Bank's envoy disappear from the Throne Room.
He withdrew his gaze, returned to the Iron Throne, and sat down once more on that menacing, uncomfortable seat.
His gaze shifted to Melisandre.
She stood to one side, waiting quietly, her red robes hanging loose.
"Melisandre, you went to the Narrow Sea Domain to help Daenerys hatch the dragon eggs. How did it go?"
Melisandre stepped forward into the center of the hall and bowed.
"Following your guidance, with lifeblood and flame as the catalysts, the ritual succeeded. The dragon in the stone has awakened. The hatchling is healthy and growing under Princess Daenerys's care."
She paused.
"However, Your Highness, the full hatching process takes considerable time and involves many intricate steps. I have recorded all the incantations and the essentials of the magic circle and given them to Princess Daenerys."
"Remaining in the Narrow Sea Domain would do little to help with subsequent hatchings. Whereas here..."
She raised her head.
"The prophecy foretells that the Long Night approaches and darkness stirs. The reborn Azor Ahai bears the burden of saving the world."
"Rather than helping hatch young dragons, it is more important that I serve at your side and help you face the coming catastrophe. Please forgive me for taking it upon myself to return early."
Aegon nodded slightly.
To him, neither process nor form mattered. Results were the only measure.
Since the dragon egg had hatched successfully and Daenerys now had the method, whether Melisandre stayed or left truly made little difference to the larger picture.
"No matter. So long as the dragon egg hatched successfully. Leave the rest to Daenerys."
His gaze settled on Melisandre, appraising her.
There were indeed things he could use the Red Priestess for here.
Establishing a new system of faith.