The Groznyj Grad Living Novel

Irinarhov was endearing, no question. It was strange, how little guile he possessed, despite his wary manner.

Andrei sighed, allowing a smile.

"I'm not actually cold, comrade."

So he would confess, after all, at least a little. It was never his forte, evading candor.

He paused, meeting Irinarhov's gaze.

"The truth is, Kassushka, I don't think you'd like the answers to anything you're wondering."

Andrei crossed his arms, tilting his head.

"What was your first impression of me?" he asked, amused. "It involved hostility, I'll wager. Tell me- I'm curious."