And then came the moment when Liberty called Neo to the center of the dance floor for a toast. She told the audience that, for a more democratic government, it had been decided that there would henceforth be a triumvirate consisting of herself, Delacroix, and a new man: Neo. "Everyone knows Neo's merits; he's a real asset."
She also told them that they had found a new trail leading to the minotaurs that escaped, and that Neo had taken the liberty of volunteering to pursue them. "Welcome, Neo, may our reign last long. Cheers!" "And now let's dance." She then grabbed Neo and began a waltz. "Have you checked out your new girlfriend yet?" "Not yet." Liberty then whispered a few words in his ear.
Josy had been watching the whole thing from a distance and wasn't in the best of moods when Neo joined her at the table. "You didn't tell me you were leaving for campaign tomorrow!?" "I only just heard." "Liberty has her ways. And I can't possibly refuse now."
"And then those whisperings while you were dancing. What was that all about? She's lucky she's your boss, or I would have scratched her eyes out right then and there." "She told me about your father. How he was involved in the minotaurs' escape."
"The bitch. I had a feeling she was having me followed. And that she didn't like me being with you." "My father was indeed convicted and fled. But until further notice, I'm not responsible for my father's sins. Besides, we're no longer in contact. Does that reassure you?"
Neo was already smitten after Josy's first words. Not long after, they went to his rental apartment. Neo might have been a military genius, but he didn't know much about love. Fortunately, Josy was a bit more knowledgeable.
Neo could have cursed Liberty for sending him on a mission at this very moment. Just when he seemed to have found ultimate happiness. And deep inside him, he felt a fear he hadn't known...the fear of losing her while he was away.
The next morning, the farewell was hard for both of them. They promised to write to each other daily, and Josy begged Neo to be careful and not take any unnecessary risks.