Both Loman and Isloman looked at him in disbelief. ‘They’ll kill him,’ they said in surprised unison.
Hawklan’s brow furrowed in ironic surprise at this unexpectedly positive and unanimous advice. ‘Very well,’ he said. ‘Get me the flag.
Andawyr and I will go down — with our bodyguard,’ he added reassuringly.
A loud clap of thunder rolled over the two brothers’ replies.
‘Good,’ Hawklan said, wilfully misunderstanding their unheard protests. ‘I’m glad you agree. There may yet be a chance to talk our way out of this. You two stay here. Bring the cavalry and the front ranks into sight on my signal.’
His manner was so authoritative that Loman and Isloman could only exchange a brief look of resignation. However, as Hawklan turned away, Loman flicked out an emphatic hand signal to the Helyad
