"Try telling that to my parents though," I said wryly. Convincing mom and dad that I was meant to be a reporter -- and that that was okay -- was difficult at the best of times. At the worst of times, I was destined for military school. If there was one thing to be said about Darrow, it was the freedom I got. I would not trade in Mom and Dad for that freedom, but it helped ease the sting.

"Anyway," I said. "If you do choose the force, ask to get partnered with Jake Vickers. He's pretty cool."

Plus, I thought it would be cool to have both of them as back up.