Jon Connington recorded Aegon's orders one by one.
Before the ink had dried, he raised his head and looked at Aegon.
"Your Highness, who should command this army drawn from the Stormlands and the Crownlands on the campaign against the Westerlands?"
Aegon's gaze swept along both sides of the long table.
Oberyn leaned back in his chair, a hint of excitement on his face, his fingers tapping lightly against the tabletop.
Jon's brow was slightly furrowed, his expression grave.
At present, Aegon's principal commanders were all in the Riverlands.
The commanders of the Golden Company, the Ashen Company, and the Blood Oath Band were each stationed there.
Here in King's Landing, there was indeed no suitable candidate to lead this newly assembled force of twenty-five thousand.
"This time, I will command them myself," Aegon said. "I will lead this army along the Golden Road into the Westerlands."
Jon nodded, but hesitation showed on his face. "Your Highness... marching an army to war is different from the battles you fought before."
"On Dragonstone, Your Highness waited for Stannis to attack. In the Riverlands, you first let the two armies engage, then rode your dragon to decide the battle."
"This march will take us a great distance. As commander, you will have to oversee provisions, encampments, scouts, formations, morale... all of these are very different from your usual way of fighting."
Aegon raised a hand. "I know. This time, I will travel with the army the whole way."
Another concern occurred to Jon. "Then Your Highness's safety-"
"You needn't worry about that," Oberyn cut in. "I will personally lead the royal guards and stay at his side."
Aegon nodded. "Exactly. The Kingsguard will accompany me throughout this campaign. I will lead this army every step of the way."
He brought the meeting