"I know. The one where you guys were with my mom." How many times had she asked about those old battles? Or heard D recount the tales on the radio? "Makes me 'bout old enough."

It was inevitable she'd have to learn eventually, when and if they returned home. She couldn't rely forever on the idea that someone else would be there to protect her.

"I will, promise." She rushes to say it, earnest and a tinge excited. "I'll do everythin' you tell me to, be the best student ya ever had. You won't regret it."