Dark Age

I find it difficult to believe that over and over again 20 year old somethings keep overpowering the older, more experienced commanders. Lysander's escape at the end of the book is hardly believable, even with a time lag, no communications, with other parties, no backup to carry out such a complex plan without funking up when missiles fall all around, either he is incredibly lucky or more clever than anyone else (which is not apparent from the book.Not quite clear what is Lysanders motivation. Hate of Republic? Revenge? How does he feel about slavery? Who does he think anyone is worthy to replace the sovereign?It also feels like too many villains with separate plans and visions are crammed into one book. It feels a bit too much. One elaborate plan by one villain and perhaps few accomplices would be sufficient to send them to dark age.