Just then, another voice rang out. It was Luke of the Ashen Company.
Aegon thought he meant to join the scramble too, but Luke's words caught him somewhat by surprise. "Your Highness, since you allowed Tywin to withdraw from the Westerlands, I imagine you have your reasons."
"We only recently occupied the Riverlands, and we have only just taken the Westerlands. Our most important task now is to enforce Your Highness's new order and fully implement the Crownlands Garrison System throughout both regions."
"Besides, we have fought battle after battle since landing in Westeros. Our supply lines have stretched too far, and we are struggling somewhat to keep provisions flowing. With the Riverlands and the Westerlands only just conquered, it will be difficult to collect enough grain in taxes in such a short time."
"What we must do now is proceed steadily and consolidate the territory we already hold. As for Tywin Lannister... I imagine Your Highness has your own plans."
At his words, the commanders all turned to look at Luke.
Well, look at you, with that honest face. Here we are fighting over the chance to pursue Tywin, and you go and take a different tack, making yourself look so noble and considerate of His Highness.
Leswell Peake spoke first. "You old pirate chief, why have you gone so soft today? This isn't like you."
Luke rolled his eyes, knowing Leswell was teasing him.
Though he was not a pirate himself, he did command a whole band of them.
He shot back, "You mercenary chief are hardly any better."
Watching the commanders of the Three Main Legions trade jibes, Marco's eyes flickered with envy.
This was another reason he was so desperate to earn merit and prove himself before Prince Aegon.
Though his Narrow Sea Fleet numbered fifty