Pre-episode one. Because Russian Yuri had to have a reason for that moment in the bathroom, right?
"Victor! I'm going to join the senior division next season!" Yuri Plisestsky bounded up to his idol.
"Oh? That's great. Congratulations." Victor's voice was warm, but only mildly interested as he turned his eyes back to the ice.
"Why are you even bothering to watch that disaster?"
"You should be nicer to someone who shares your name, Yuri." Victor chuckled blithely without taking his eyes off the rink. "It's not good to be so sour all the time."
"Tch." Yuri scoffed. "Why's he even bothering to compete if he's going to skate like that? It's a disgrace."
"He is very . . ." Victor looked like he was being way too considerate with his words for some reason. "Disappointing." Victor muttered softly. "Like a perfect, tightly coiled little bud that just won't open up."
Yuri sneered at the poetic metaphor and made a disgusted sound as the Japanese Yuri flubbed another jump. "Well then someone should cut that bud before it becomes even more of an eyesore. He's old anyway."
"He's got a little time left." Victor chirped, with absurd cheer. "More than some of us anyway."
Dammit. Yuri wished he could punch himself in the face. He just accidentally insulted Victor. "Pfft. You're still fine." He groused by way of apology.
Victor shrugged and looked a little sad. "I've always pushed my limits. The same way you do, Yuri. Give me a call in twelve years and tell me how your body feels." His usual cheer returned. "Besides, I don't intend to fade away. I'll surprise everyone just as much next year as I always do."
"What have you got planned, then?"
"No plans yet. I'm still feeling out what might be best." He reached ruffled Yuri's hair.
Yuri responded to the affectionate gesture with an irritated snarl. "I'm not a kid, Victor. I told you, I'm senior now."
"Then next year we'll have two Yuri's?" Why did Victor sound so obnoxiously delighted? He only needed one Yuri. The one that was right here.
He stomped off to go take a leak, and was unable to contain his malicious glee when he realized exactly who was in the bathroom crying.