5.Death of Chaos
CXIV
Dellash, Delapra [Candar]
“YOU ARE AWARE, Marshal, that a Recluce ship was sighted returning to Nylan, presumably from Ruzor?” Stupelltry's fingers almost caress the sparkling, untouched, and empty crystal goblet on the veranda table.
“I cannot say that I am surprised,” Dyrsse admits. “I would gather that the black devils have reclaimed their wizards.”
“So you will return to the attack on Kyphros? That would leave Kyphros in our hands.”
“Why? The Emperor has commanded us to remove the vipers of Recluce. That is our duty. That has always been our duty. If we remove them, Candar will fall. Fail to remove them, and we will never take Candar. Besides, they could return the wizards as quickly as they took them. Their ships are faster than ours.”
“Speed is not everything,” points out Stupelltry. “They have neither the cannon nor the numbers of troops armed and trained as well as ours. While they may rely on magic, I prefer cannon, well-turned steel, and rifles that kill before a sword can respond. With a rifle, each trooper is as powerful as the average mage, and there are far more soldiers than mages.”
“True.” Dyrsse nods toward the pitcher on the table. “Would you like some of the wine? I am assured that, as Candarian wines go, it is rather good.”
“No, thank you. It doubtless does not compare to the vintages the Emperor favors.” Stupelltry smiles.
“Doubtless, although I would not care to guess what the Emperor might favor in anything. My duty is to follow his commands as he has expressed them, not as I might guess.”
“Yes, his commands...” muses the fleet commander. “They are our duty, and we will counter any speed of their ships with our numbers and cannon. Cannon reach farther than even the greatest firebolts of these western wizards.” He pauses. “Are you convinced of the speed of the black ships?”
“They have provided rather convincing demonstrations. That is another reason why it would be better to strike now, before they can build more ships and before their wizards recuperate.”
“Would it not be easier to mount an attack holding all of Candar? That would provide an even more secure base.”
“How? You have Freetown, Pyrdya, Renklaar, and Worrak in the east, and control of Summerdock, Southport, and Biehl in the west. Is that not sufficient?” Dyrsse nods toward the empty goblet. “Are you sure that you would not like some wine?”
“I do appreciate the kindness, but I must defer.” Stupelltry nods toward the ships arrayed in and beyond the harbor of Del-lash. “Since you and the Emperor are convinced, I will begin preparing for the stone-crushing efforts, and that will require a clear head.”