[If it's going to freak out Norman, Blake might warm to the thing a little.]

[For once there's not much fight in Blake's voice.] Didn't think so. You're not that kind of asshole.

[It would've been nice to be able to blame him.]

[That sort of situation brings out the worst in people, but Blake's used to it (and pretty bad to start with).]

[Oh, like when some dick is telling a crazy guy he can't kill the Antichrist with a gun and practically daring him to give it a try? That kind of nerve-wracking experience?]

[The Munna doesn't mind. She likes attention, especially from people whose brains smell interesting. She makes a friendly lowing noise.]

[It's kind of funny to see Jayden holding the thing like a bomb.]

We're not stuck as partners here, Norman. But the point is the kid. You're looking out for him, and he thinks I'm a psycho murderer. Doesn't work out. There's no way to convince him I'm not gonna hurt him, and believe it or not, terrifying an eleven-year-old isn't my idea of fuckin' fun. As soon as my team's tough enough, I'm getting out of here and putting some miles between us.

[Steve backs off courteously. She doesn't mean to alarm the pretty bird.]