Meanwhile, in an old cave, Yuri came forward and had a meeting with the minister, his arms crossed as the minister entered. The air was damp, heavy with silence.
Yuri's voice was sharp but calm "Couldn't find a place less dramatic for this meeting, Minister?"
The minister's lips curled into a faint smile and then he took a few steps closer.
"Yuri, you like things to be direct as always. Can't we just talk like old friends? It's been a while."
Yuri replied. "Save the pleasantries to yourself. You didn't summon me here, to ask how I'm doing. So why don't you cut to the chase?"
The minister chuckled. "Fine but let me ask you a question. I've noticed how much attention you're giving Roy Celgius."
Yuri smiled slightly and said "you don't miss anything do you… He's talented, that's all. He has some potential, that what I believe, and I want to help him grow stronger. He deserves guidance, and I'm in a position to give it, so why not."
The minister raised an eyebrow. "Is this all? Or is there something more you're not telling me? I'm sure you know what I mean."
Yuri folded his arms, his voice growing colder. "Do you doubt my intentions, Minister? Do I need to remind you of my loyalties?"
The minister shrugged. "Loyalties are a fragile thing, Yuri. Especially at times like this. That's why you're here. Maybe that's also why, I heard some rumors that there's a spy among us."
Yuri approached. "It seems like you don't trust me, Minister. So, tell me what's stopping me from snapping your neck here and leaving you to rot in this cave?"
The Minister smiled. "You won't. You're smarter than that. We both know you've always liked to play the long game. I just want you to find him, you're good at that, aren't you?"
While the tension between them was just getting bigger, the minister stepped back, his voice softening just slightly.
"Be careful in your mission. And don't forget to take care of the children too. They're just like you, after all." He paused briefly at the mouth of the cave, his back turned. "Survivors of an experiment..." Then he disappeared in the darkness.
Yuri muttered "Fool old man…"