The Lore of the Evermen (Evermen Saga, #4)

by James Maxwell

Killian said, “I won’t be here to lead you.” Every set of eyes was on the emperor. “Someone must get into the city to speak to the defenders and time the attack. I am the only one who can do so, and I have my own duty to fulfill in order to protect the Empire from our foe.” Killian turned as he spoke, looking at each face in turn. “One among you must make the overall decisions if you are to have any chance of success. Miro and I will have our own tasks to accomplish.” Killian paused to take a breath. “Is there one you trust with this duty?” Killian asked. Miro’s eyes widened. He’d expected Killian to nominate Tiesto. Outside the circle, Miro saw Amber’s eyes on him. She knew nothing of his mad plan. High Lord Grigori Orlov of Vezna stepped forward. “I will follow Tiesto Telmarran, high lord of Halaran,” he called. “I will follow the high lord of Halaran,” Lord Marshal Scola said. “He has my vote, for what it’s worth,” said Dain Barden of the Akari. “And mine,” Touana spoke up. Killian fixed his gaze on his Tingaran marshals. “If it is your wish, Emperor,” said one of the big men with the shaved heads. “It is,” Killian said. “High Lord Tiesto Telmarran, you’re in charge. By my decree, the army is yours to command, the orders yours to give.” Tiesto scanned the crowd. “I thank you for your support. We will need to form up, but the city needs us, and the longer we wait here, the greater the chance we’ll be spotted by the enemy. We will attack when we hear your clarion.” Killia...