The events of the 2nd] of Obsidian, 1067
So many months standing guard over Stravitch's growing construction site, so many months spent coddling the Captain of the Guard, talking to him, diffusing his outbursts. A subtle change had taken place, one that even Vatek failed to notice, but with so close proximity to one dwarf for so long, Vatek had begun to pick up a few of Stravitch's mannerisms.
He walked the same way, his feet kicking out slightly, shoulders slightly stooped. He rubbed under his chin with a thumb when deep in thought, or bared his teeth without thinking when presented with a particularly challenging problem. Right now, he stood beside Stravitch, and both of them adopted the same stance - their legs spread wide, their centers of gravity lowered, their hands perched insolently on their hips.
There was a faint from behind them. Vatek turned quickly - Stravitch did not. Glacies stood before him, looking sullen and nervous, and behind him stood Aryn, his face hard, his eyes narrowed. Glacies looked down at a sheet of parchment he held, and gave a resigned sigh, holding it up to the pair. "It's been recommended that you should shut down this construction site."
Vatek stayed silent, his lips pursed. Stravitch didn't bother to turn around, and Glacies, after a pause, continued on. "Of course, with it like it is, we can't tell what it'll be, but I'm sure you've both heard the commoners refer to it as "The Poison Temple". Aryn recommends that the site be left dormant."
When he was met with silence yet again, Aryn pushed past the book keeper. "I've let this go on, because I know just how fickle you are. I thought you'd get bored with the whole thing, Fillwhip, especially since Dodik's little whore-pit is back open. But as this monstrocity continues to grow, and starts blocking out the sky, I can't stand idly by any longer. Stop construction, or turn it over to my team so we can make something of worth out of it. This is your only warning."
That got his attention - and Stravitch quickly turned around, his great brow furrowing. Both Aryn and Glacies took a step backwards, and Vatek very subtly side-stepped to get outside of his mace range. There were a few tense seconds, and Stravitch threw his head back, roaring with laughter.
"I'll put you on the guest list when this is finished, Aryn. Now why don't you both head out, before I put you both to work hauling cinnabar, too?"