[He didn't need her to promise him that. He trusted her. Regardless, Walter observed her carefully before reaching a quiet answer.]

. . . if that is what the Merines desires . . .

[It would only be as a last resort, anyway. But he didn't say it aloud. He may teach her the basics later, may, though he was not too eager to give her more ways to throw herself into imminent danger. He could not, however, deny her so simply. Still, he was making no promises.]

I don't recommend falling straight on it should the situation appear bleak.

[With him around, he would ensure that the situation never became bleak.]