Genesis of Apotheosis

[Strazio Rockwell]

Having never even heard of half the words that Maru used when describing the grub Strazio decided it was best to try a little bit of everything. The curry was flavorful and tickled the mage’s palette just right. His homeland cared little for spices and instead focused on hearty, belly-filling meals. While the stews and roasts had their own charm, they lacked the exciting notes that a proper curry held. Hell even the salad was delicious. He made a mental note to ask Valerie if he had ever encountered “strawberries” before, the sugary red fruits ignited pleasure centers that he was surprised his brain even had.

His consumption slowed as he listened to Tearen’s reasoning in regards to the superiority of prepared food. It was a thought that he had never consciously acknowledged, however he did know the idea on some fundamental level. After Demitri was murdered he struggled with the idea of recreating his friend, but just what would he create? It wasn’t as if he was reanimating the man’s corpse, he was just creating a facsimile. And as Tearen pointed out the summon would be flavored with Strazio’s perception. After all, just what did he know about Demetri’s world, hell just what did he know about the man’s life? How could he hope to recreate anyone without knowing every minute detail of their existence? Other than satisfying a selfish desire to undo death’s work, just what would he accomplish by creating a doppleganger?

He shook his head and tried again to lose himself in the meal.

As Dane made his presence known Strazio’s muscles clenched and readied themselves for combat. Small sparks of magick charged through his hair and across his flesh. Perhaps it was paranoia, but a lifetime spent hiding as a pariah meant that any unexpected stranger was more than likely a threat. Were it not for Tearen’s intervention the rage mage would have been liable to attack the man then and there. Still as Wover addressed the stranger Strazio kept a cautious eye on the man. The messy-haired warrior seemed familiar to Strazio, he had seen him before but couldn’t quite place it.

As Dane sat he addressed Strazio and upon mentioning the Abyss Strazio’s eyes went wide. Lightning arced across his hand as he snapped his fingers and pointed an accusatory digit at Dane.

“I fucking remember you,” Strazio said excitedly, “you and that star-spangled bitch tried to jump me.”

Before Dane could respond Strazio continued, at this point setting aside his utensils.

“You know she set me on fire,” he said, “that fucking hurt, a lot , you’re lucky you got culled or you would’ve ended up like her.”

“Chillax brother,” Gamzee said behind a mouthful of food.

“Oh fuck off, the dude tried to kill me,” Strazio countered.