Epilogue

"Hi, Robert."

"I heard about what you did. That was very stupid..... and very brave."

"Thanks, Robert. Coming from you, that's a standing ovation."

"Must be that Guardian protocol thing."

"It is, Robert. It is."

"You feeling alright?"

"More or less. I'm gonna be in observation for a few more days. Bummer, huh?"

"You could say that. How about the award the Prime gave you?"

"It's on my bedside table right now. The one in my dorm, that is. Kathy's probably polishing it up now."

"And the speech the Prime gave. So you're a full-time Guardian now?"

"Not quite; we just became more independent. We're still counted as cadets. Prime Jennings said as much."

"Then what's this about 'Alpha group'?"

"Nick's idea. We wanted to differentiate ourselves. Besides, it's Guardian protocol as well to name a unit."

"Interesting. So, uh....."

"How am I getting along with my non-Human friends? Quite well, actually."

"You call them 'friends' now? That's an improvement."

"Thanks. Now if you'll excuse me, I think I'm going to discuss the History of the Guardians with Nar and Ril. They're the history buffs, and I'm glad I have them as friends."

"A very large improvement, I must say."

"Thanks, Robert. If nothing else, at least I can ask them to do my assignments for me. Susan out."