'Operative Cerberus, I was instructed by the Executive to rendezvous with you and ensure our friend Ilex delivers what we need. He is to pay dearly for his insubordination.' [Informative, businesslike but passionate]

'Why?’ [Thoughtful] - [then suddenly realising] ‘He must be disabled in some way; he wouldn’t just sit there if he could escape without being seen. Ilex may be arrogant, but he is not stupid!'

[Seething] ‘As both the Anubis and the Hecate’s weaponry systems are compromised and we do not have any indication as to where Ilex could be, I suggest that for now it would be prudent to withdraw. Ilex has escaped for the time being, but he will reveal himself again and when he does, he will be dealt with accordingly.’