"Maybe he's hiding," Kassian was saying, right as Borishnakov re-emerged into view. He shrugged, watching as the quick-footed recruit went for the bait and ended up getting caught. The crowd howled their delight, calling out suggestions, cheering Raikov on.

There was another thing he couldn't see himself doing, glad again for the shield of influence that Isaev had exerted on his behalf. In any case, by the time Imanov got out of the infirmary, his own initiation would be even more pointless than it already was today.

He wondered how long the major would grope and grind against Borishnakov. Raikov seemed to be enjoying it, at least, but judging by the look of startled horror that flashed across Borishnakov's features, he didn't seem to feel the same.

Kassian raised an eyebrow in Isaev's direction. "After that, he probably will be afraid."