"It is always difficult. That is the first thing anyone ever says about parenthood." Not that Erik would know from a biological standpoint, but he'd adopted enough fledglings to understand the broad strokes. And he's met enough mothers and fathers in his long life to gather the rest.

"I don't expect you to be perfect. You will make mistakes. I only expect you to put forth your best effort and to make amends when you fail to measure up. As far as protecting Dawn, I expect you to do as any father would--whatever it takes to keep her safe. You will be judged less harshly if it's on account of that."