Reagen and Zippy stand outside the building. Zippy is smoking, Reagen just stands there, watching people.
REAGEN
I won’t lie, training will be Hell.
ZIPPY
I know, it’s a demanding school, several of the guys already told me.
REAGEN
No. I think the school will be a breeze for you, from what I read about you in the file.
Zippy looks over at Reagen.
The next panel, she’s in an airplane. Her lip is busted, there’s a few small cuts on the same side of her face, it’s an ugly bruise running down from her temple to lower cheek, her jaw tense, and eyes dead ahead-very empty. They parachute out of the plane.
REAGEN
(voice over)
Hell will come from you being a woman treading in man’s land. Don’t let them break you.
Georgia
Late July, 2012
Next panel has the General ‘pinning’ Zippy, looking at her lip that has begun to scar over. He goes to touch it, but she turns away, and then gives him a small smile. They hug.
A bit later, they’re at a diner, Zippy stuffing her face with a burger and fries.
ZIPPY
Mm…grease, I missed you so much.
Zippy’s parents are both giving her a look of disbelief, while the General and his wife watch her with a more concerned face.
ZIPPY
So, where am I off to now?
GENERAL SOKOLL
Back to the base, where you can begin training with your squad.
ZIPPY
Mk.
ISAAK
Zippy, we’re very proud of you for completing this training.
HANNAH
Yes, sweetie. We are so proud of you.
ISAAK
I never thought I’d have a little girl doing what I couldn’t.
HANNAH
She’s not as accident prone as you.
Zippy gives them a small smile, and eats some more fries.
