Progress Is a Good Thing

Writers: AL, Noli
Date Posted: 29th August 2013

Characters: Aini, Korkary
Description: The Dockmaster and the Headwoman exchange news.
Location: Seacraft Hall
Date: month 2, day 10 of Turn 7

Korkary gazed across the docks in satisfaction. Although there was clear
evidence that construction was ongoing, the progress that had been made
already was remarkable. The rigging, while incomplete, was at least
functional. There was one ship moored to the dock now, and Korkary knew
that another was due to arrive within the sevenday. He grinned to
himself. He had made a good choice, accepting the dockmaster position
here at the Seacraft Hall.

Listening to the wood creaking beneath his considerable bulk, he slowly
made his way towards the main building. As he strolled, he admired the
industry that was taking place all around him. There were smiths and
woodcrafters, fishers and dolphineers, shipbuilders and support staff--
all busily going about their business, increasing productivity and just
generally bringing the Hall up to full functionality. Korkary himself
had been up before the sun every day, pouring through the hides in his
new office to familiarize himself with the particulars of his position.
But now, he was hungry, and as the midday meal was soon to commence, he
decided to beat the rush for the dining hall just this once.

As he stepped inside, he glanced around. Once again, it was evident that
the building was still being worked on; some corridors had various tools
strewn around, and there was a sharp smell in the air that Korkary
couldn't quite place. But the great hall had been one of the first rooms
finished, out of necessity. After all, the workers and residents alike
had to eat.

He caught sight of a figure that had become all too familiar since he
had docked ten days prior. Like everyone else, she appeared to be
bustling around on her errands, efficient and competent. Korkary
approached her from behind and called a friendly greeting.

"Slow down, Aini. You don't have to do it all yourself, you know."

"Ah, Korkary." Aini turned, parchments placed upon a board to make it
easier to write. Charcoal was in her other hand and she held it aloft
as if it might be a weapon she wielded. Her face was stoic save for a
hint of a smile that twitched at her lips . "I never said I did. I do
have people helping me." She assured him. "How do you fare?"

"Well, I am happy to report." Korkary's smile was the opposite of Aini's,
broad and infectious. "I've finally been able to begin real work, now
that the initial settling in has taken place. The docks are going to be
busy soon, for all that the Hall is only half completed."

He looked around expectantly. "I'm hungry as a hatchling, though. Is
there food to be had yet?"

"I'm glad to hear it. Business means we're making progress and
progress, of course, is a good thing." Amusement flashed over her face,
though it made a very brief appearance. "I can have some brought to you
if you like."

Korkary felt his gut rumble at the offer. He nodded sheepishly. "I
would be much obliged, Aini."

"It is not a problem. I have a few more helping hands now so things are
a little easier. Anything you particularly wish to have? If it's made,
I'll send it along." Aini wouldn't order the kitchen staff to make
something special, but she'd include anything that was already done.

Korkary grinned. "Whatever is ready. I'm so hungry, I could eat a
runner!" He hoped to scarf down some food and be back in his office
within the candlemark.

"I'm assuming meat?" Most men she knew ate meat - though some liked it
more than others. "And, of course, I'll make sure vegetables are included."

"Just like my wife." Korkary laughed. "Thanks, Aini." He bowed
respectfully, his large bulk surprisingly graceful. "I'll get out of your
way. I'm going to review some hides while I wait." Moving off to the end
of the hall, he sat down with a thump. Knowing Aini, it was going to be
delicious. Korkary's mouth watered in anticipation, and he settled in to
wait.

Last updated on the September 14th 2013

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Progress Is a Good Thing