67th Fighter Weapons Squadron
USAF Fighter Weapons School
Nellis AFB
Las Vegas NV
With the end of classes, the normal annual rotation of instructors was taking place. The rotation normally involves about 10% of all instructors. Most are rotated to operational commands, taking their place again as pilots and combat Witches. Others, mostly Witches, decide to retire and leave the Air Force. Sassy Jackson was one of them, and a replacement was due by the end of the month.
Will's trip to the Pentagon and TAC (Tactical Air Command) turned into nearly a month away. He and Audrey exchanged phone calls every night, but most recently, he had been quiet and evasive about what he had been working on with TAC. Since his return, he been very busy, researching, collating data and writing. During their dates, he was quiet, serious and preoccupied. Audrey was concerned, but didn't want to push him. He's a grown man, and he know what he's doing. If he needs my help, he'll say so she thought..It still didn't make her feel very comfortable.
Audrey and Will continued to date, but Audrey's sense of certainty and security was shaken by Will's continued preoccupation and silence. She called on all of her charm. Intuition and perception, trying to get some information on what was bothering Will, but it was like she trying to read a blank wall. She was sure it had to do with his trip to the Pentagon and meetings with TAC. Discreetly asking his fellow instructors and colleagues produced similar unsatisfying results.
Audrey became more concerned as Will's mood darkened, and he became grimmer and more stern. His attitude turned cynical and sharply sarcastic, though it was never directed towards her. This was a side she had never seen of him, and it frightened her. She wanted to help him, but she couldn't get any sort of relevant information on what was going on. He continued his silence as he did more research, data collating and writing. She noticed that he was no longer teaching, but spending a lot of time with Majors Erickson and Thomas, the operations officers of the 66th and 67th Squadrons, as well as with Major "Grumpy" Laura Henderson, a fellow instructor, on whatever he was working on. Asking Grumpy about what they were working on, produced only vague evasions.
"It's something very important., and it comes from the top, so we can't discuss it yet.." Grumpy said, cryptically.
After a couple of weeks of this, Audrey finally had had enough. What could be that important? She thought. Fine. He knows I can help him if he asks and lets me know what's going on. If it's as important as Grumpy says it is, I'll just let him deal with it for now. But if he comes back to me after this is over, I think he owes me an apology for shutting me out like this! She thought angrily.
Audrey decided to concentrate on her own tasks. New classes of students were due in soon and there was word that a new instructor would be arriving, as well. She spent her time working on her lesson plan, working with the maintenance squadron to make sure that the Strikers would be ready for the rigors of the exercises that were planned.
She also began running and weight lifting by herself, since Will was so consumed by the work he was doing, that he couldn't take the time to work out with her. After working out with Will for more than 6 months, working out alone was boring, but she kept at it. It did help relieve some of the stress she was under.
One morning, Audrey was in the office she shared with JJ, working on presentations and handouts for the upcoming class. Gunner informed her that this would be her first international class, with 3 of the students from Karlsland, 3 from Britannia and 2 from Fuso. She wanted to make sure everything was clear and concise, even if everyone spoke Brittanian.
JJ stuck her head in and said, "Boings! The Colonel wants us in her office now. "
When they both arrived at Colonel Washington's office, she was doing her normal pacing behind her desk.
In her normal rapid-fire manner, Colonel Washington barked. "At ease, ladies. I want to introduce our new instructor." gesturing to the woman seated in the chair by the desk.
This is Captain Michelle Ramirez, nicknamed "Misty". She comes to us from the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing. She's had her initial interview with Jabby and is eager to start.
Misty was a young woman, slightly taller than Audrey, and slimmer. Her jet -lack hair was pulled back into a bun on the back of her head, Her eyes were a dark brown that almost appeared as black as her hair. Her complexion was darker as well. Her face was thin with high cheekbones, a small nose and slightly square chin.
Turning to Misty, Colonel Washington declared, "Misty, these are your new guides This is Captain Judy Johnson, nicknamed JJ."
JJ waved, and said, "Hi there"
"And this is Captain Audrey Gains, nicknamed Boing Boing or simply Boings for short. Don't ask." Colonel Washington said, at Misty's questioning look.
Audrey said. "Welcome to Fighter Weapons"
"Hi! I'm glad to be here! I'm looking forward to teaching and working with all of you!" Misty replied in a bright cheery tone.
Turning to Audrey and JJ, Colonel Washington said "You two will be her guides. She'll sit in on your classes to get a feel on how things go. Help her get adjusted and up to speed. Give her all the help she needs on lesson planning, finding resources and working with the other instructors. Also, give her the latest scoop on what isn't written down. To facilitate that, Misty will take a spare desk in your office. Any questions?" Both Audrey and JJ shook their heads. "Good. You're all dismissed!" Colonel Washington declared.
Walking back to their shared office, both Audrey and JJ were chattering at Misty, filling her in on all the "facts of life" at the 67th.. For her part, Misty didn't seem to have an issue with both Audrey and JJ throwing information at her at the same time. She seemed to move smoothly between them, answering each coherently, despite being talked to at the same time by both of her mentors.
Arriving at their shared office, Audrey saw that Supply had performed a miracle. Normally, the small office was only large enough for the two desks, and was cramped when the bookcases were added. Somehow, Supply had managed to rearrange everything to squeeze another desk into the far left corner, moving the bookcases to the far right corner and the remaining two desks in the near left and right corners of the office. There was barely any space between the two chairs to squeeze into the far desk and all occupants of the office were going to have to be very friendly to work effectively. Fortunately, the door opened outward.
JJ had been happy and smiling, cracking jokes with Misty. This stopped when she partly closed the door and pointed to the base map on the back of it.
"Captain Ramirez, this is important and I need you to pay attention and remember this." JJ declared seriously.
"This is a map of the test and training ranges here at Nellis. This area, Area 51 and the area around Groom Lake are off-limits to all but authorized personnel, which does not include us." JJ stated, pointing at the arena between the northern and southern training ranges.
JJ continued. "If you violate the airspace over Area 51 and Groom Lake, if you aren't shot down, you will be forced down and imprisoned under the US Espionage Act of 1949 for no less than 35 years. There will be no clemency, no leniency, and no exceptions. Whatever they are doing there is beyond top secret, and it's one of those things you'd rather not know about."
"Okay, I gotcha, Nobody goes anywhere near Area 51 and Groom Lake." Misty said.
"Anyway Misty, there's your desk in the corner" Audrey said, as she pointed to the empty desk in the far left corner of the office.
Calming down, JJ took a closer look the desk in the corner of the office.
"Hey, how do you rate getting an IBM Selectric? Boings and I are stuck with these old manual Remingtons!" JJ exclaimed, in mock outrage.
"Go ahead and check out your desk and see how it fits." Audrey said.
As Misty turned sideways to get between the two office chairs, she pointed to something on Audrey's desk.
"What's that?" she inquired, leaning in for a closer look. "It's beautiful" she breathed.
"It was a birthday present, from my boyfriend." Audrey announced proudly as she picked up the Strike Witch figurine.
"And Boings still hasn't told us who he is" JJ remarked with a slightly acid edge to her voice.
"Everyone will meet him when he and I are ready" Audrey sighed in an exasperated tone.
Misty looked closely at the figurine, an unreadable expression on her face. Seeing Audrey looking at her, she smiled, and said "That's nice."
"You might as well as get started with your paperwork. Our Admin CO is really strict on getting things done soon and right." JJ said, pointing to the pile of papers on the new desk.
"Well, I'd better get to it. Excuse me."Misty said briskly. As she turned sideways to edge past Audrey.
Audrey turned sideways and leaned forward against her desk to let Misty get by. She flinched when she felt Misty's hand firmly on her back. Her eyes widened when she felt Misty press firmly against her bottom and thighs as she slid towards her desk. Disquieted, Audrey pulled out her chair and sat down and looked at Misty. Misty noticed Audrey looking at her, then smiled and winked at her. Audrey turned to her own paperwork, struggling with the uncomfortable feelings churning her stomach.
Over the next few weeks, Misty proved to be a quick study, almost instantly grasping all the procedures and techniques that were used in teaching. She also showed off her flair for teaching. She was quick witted, articulate, and knowledgeable, with a light touch that related well to her students. Her bright cheery attitude won her a number of friends among the instructional staff. All in all, she seemed to be adapting quickly, and fitting well.
Misty seemed to go out of her way to make friends, often inviting other instructors out for dinner and drinks every other Friday. And it seemed to work. She became popular with the other instructors and staff, often exchanging laughs and jokes with everyone. Misty appeared to be a "contact" person, often touching and hugging those she was around as a way to express her affection and connection to them. Audrey didn't think too much about it. After all, her Aunt Emily, who had doted on her and her sisters, had been one to do a lot of hugging as well. She worked hard as an instructor and passed her first quarterly evaluation with a number of encouraging comments.
In the meantime, Audrey's life was getting more and more difficult. Dates with Will had become dull and unsatisfying. He seemed to be only partly there, his attention wandering after working up to 18 hours a day on this "special project" he refused to tell her about. His mood had darkened even further and, try as he might, he became curt and short with Audrey. The last dinner date they had, Will spoke mostly in two syllable statements, again refusing to give Audrey any details on what he was doing, except to say that she "didn't have the need to know" again. Audrey left that last date in tears of anger and frustration, finally telling Will that she needed some time to think.
Audrey's foul mood carried over to her work. She was short and curt with everyone, except when she snarled at JJ for making comments about her unknown boyfriend. Needless to say, most of everyone gave her a wide berth,
Coming to the office after a morning workout one day, Audrey found a cup of coffee and a turnover on her desk. She picked up the coffee and sipped it. No cream and two sugars, just as she liked it. She picked up the turnover and bit into it. Apple, she decided, tasting the sweet fruit filling. The delicate flaky pastry holding the filling almost melted away in her mouth. Misty came into the office as Audrey had the coffee and turnover in her hands.
"Hope I got the coffee right for you. Did you like the turnover?" Misty asked.
"Yes, you did, and thank you for the turnover, as well. That was really nice of you." Audrey said appreciatively.
"I'm glad you liked it." Misty said quietly. She touched Audrey's hand holding her coffee, and gave her a quick hug, before she went to her desk.
That afternoon, a small box of chocolate appeared on Audrey's desk. Audrey was grateful and the gift lifted the dour mood of the day. Pastries and coffee continued to appear at her desk every morning, courtesy of Misty and Audrey appreciated it.
While Audrey had made friends at Fighter Weapons, none were as close as Juggs had been, and that was something that she deeply missed. She was thankful that Misty seemed to be going out of her way to be friends with her. They began socializing after work, and had begun working out together every morning.
After a few weeks, Misty invited Audrey out for dinner and drinks one Friday. They decided to meet at the O club for Seafood Night. Both Misty and Audrey dressed casually, which meant T-shirts, bikini shorts and tennis shoes with golf socks. Audrey ordered the shrimp cocktail, grilled halibut, tempura prawns, with the sauteed snow peas. Misty had the Cobb salad, baked salmon, shrimp scampi and the baked carrots.
They began talking about themselves, relating the details of their lives. Audrey was surprised that Misty had just turned 18, and that Fighter Weapons was her third assignment in the past 2 years. Misty was impressed that Audrey had two tours in Vietnam, and had been flying missions that Misty had only read about.
Talking and laughing, Misty suggested moving to the bar for a couple of drinks. They found a booth near the back of the bar and settled in, ordering drinks. Misty had a Jack Daniels and Coke, while Audrey had her usual Wild Turkey and 7Up. They were talking and laughing, and then the conversation swung to more personal details of their lives. Before she knew it, Audrey was on her fourth Wild Turkey and 7Up. Audrey started thinking about her situation with Will and her depression grew. Her gloom deepened with each succeeding drink, and she started sobbing.
"Audrey, are you okay? What's wrong?" Misty asked, as she moved from sitting across from Audrey to sitting beside her.
Audrey took another long swig of her drink, bowed her head and began sobbing again. Between sobs, she managed to gasp out the story with Will and what had happened in the past few months.
Misty hugged Audrey. "That's messed up! I wouldn't treat anyone that way! I wouldn't let anyone treat me that way!" she said hotly.
Misty went on passionately. "Listen Audrey, you don't need him. Men are so selfish and self centered. They do what they do and us women have to support them, cheer them on and encourage them. They don't care about what we want or need. If we want to do what we want and to be happy doing what we like, we have to take back the power to do it for ourselves, not depend on a man to give us permission to do so. We Witches are bound together by virtue of our magic. It's what men fear, we have a power that they can't control, unless they bind us to them through this construct called romantic love. By making us vulnerable to love, we fall under their influence and give them control over our power."
Misty continued on. "And make no doubt about it, we Witches are closer than sisters to each other. Only a Witch can understand and appreciate another Witch. Men can't understand, much less appreciate your beauty. Brains, charm, and sweetness the way I can. Men are so rough, crude and selfish. We can be gentle and caring with each other. The Sisterhood of Witches is powerful and that's what they fear the most. We can achieve anything we desire for ourselves."
Max the bartender came over and picked up both of their glasses. "I'm sorry Captains, but you're disturbing our other guests , so I'm going to have to cut you both off for tonight."
Misty pasted a bright cheery go-to-hell smile on her face. "That's okay, we were just getting ready to leave." she said brightly, as she threw a couple of twenties on the table. She stood,. maneuvering a limp and very drunk Audrey out of the booth. She put Audrey's left arm around her shoulders and grabbed Audrey's waist with her right arm. With Audrey swaying drunkenly against her, the two Witches staggered out of the O club.
They both managed to get to the corridor of the BOQ where they both had their rooms without any major incidents. Audrey was so out of it, that she didn't seem to notice the change in scenery, and was quietly mumbling to herself as Misty leaned her up against the wall by the door to Misty's room.
Misty studied Audrey closely, as Audrey leaned limply against the wall. She's so beautiful, so open, so vulnerable, so ready, Misty thought. Making a decision, Misty moved closer to Audrey and pressed her lips to Audrey's in a passionate kiss.
The alcohol had dulled Audrey's awareness and reflexes, so she didn't react to the kiss. It wasn't until she felt one of Misty's hands firmly grasping one of her breasts, while the other hand dug into her bikini shorts, that her eyes flew wide open, becoming aware of what was being done to her. Unsteadily, she managed to push Misty back, squirming away from the hands taking intimate liberties with her body. She looked at Misty with a shocked expression, so stunned that she couldn't find anything to say.
For her part, Misty leaned her shoulder against the wall, crossed her arms and gave Audrey a lazy, triumphant smile. "Come on, Audrey. Let's go to my room and spend some time cuddling VERY closely together. You know you want to." She said, the smile turning into a leer.
Audrey looked around wildly, managing to discern her location. She backed away from Misty to her room, which was a few doors down. She fumbled with her keys, finally finding her room key. She looked at Misty again. She was still leaning against the wall, the triumphant smile now had a hungry edge to it. Seeing Misty's hungry, predatory expression, Audrey's stomach heaved dangerously.
"I-I-I've got to go" Audrey said nervously, as she unlocked her room door, darted in and locked it as fast as she could.
Audrey leaned back against the door. She knew that she was still drunk, and she was trying to process the night's events, hoping to find what started all this with Misty. Her stomach lurched even more wildly than a Striker avoiding Neuroi ground fire. She staggered unsteadily to the bathroom as fast as she could, barely making it in time to lose drinks, dinner and what seemed like lunch and breakfast as well. She stood unsteadily, feeling weak and drained, but not as nauseous. She splashed water on her face, and welcomed the sharp medicine taste of the mouthwash she gargled with.
Carefully making her way to her bed, Audrey sat down, then unclipped and let down her hair. She kicked off her shoes and pulled off her golf socks. She then stripped off her t shirt and bra and then leaned back against the pillows. It was Friday, so she didn't have to worry about setting her alarm clock or anything else. Still weak, drained, more than a little drunk, shocked and confused by the events of the evening, she soon fell into a deep dreamless sleep and was snoring in minutes.
Audrey didn't wake up until close to noon. She was stiff and sore, because she hadn't moved at all last night. She was dry and dehydrated, and her mouth felt as dry and dusty as the desert on one of the training ranges. The sunlight coming through the curtains was way too bright, and the deafening rasping sound that seemed to dominate the room, was her own breathing. This all was nothing, compared to the incessant throbbing, pounding headache that felt like multiple Mk 81s detonating in sequence in her head, in time with her pulse. Gods, it sucks to be me this morning she thought sourly.
Groaning, Audrey rolled out of bed. First things first. A half dozen aspirin washed down with as many glasses of water mostly quieted the headache after a few minutes, and slacked the dryness in her mouth. Turning on the shower till it was steaming, she stripped and stepped in. After scrubbing herself until her skin turned pink between her freckles, Audrey shampooed her hair with equal vigor, then let the hot water pour over her for a few minutes, before stepping out and wrapping herself in a towel.
After toweling herself dry, Audrey set to drying and brushing out her hair. She scowled at her reflection in the mirror. In spite of daily applications of sunscreen, her freckles were becoming more numerous and prominent. Now they not only on her face, they were sprinkled on her arms, chest, the upper surface of her breasts, her stomach and her legs. She turned around and saw more of them on her shoulders, back and even on her butt. I'm cursed, that's the only thing that can explain this! She thought, as she turned back around, continuing to brush out her hair. Gathering her hair into a messy ponytail, she finished getting dressed, donned her dog tags, strapped on her chronometer, and stuffed her wallet and keys in her shorts pocket.
Arriving at the dining facility, Audrey decided on her hangover standard, scrambled eggs, wheat toast and orange juice. Just as she sat down and was ready to dig in, Misty sat at a table near her, appearing not to notice her. Audrey began shoveling in her food, wanting to get away from there as soon as she could. Just as she was almost finished, Misty raised her head, looked Audrey in the eye, and smiled that bright, feral predatory smile that sent shivers up her spine. Then she did something that chilled her even further. Misty winked at her and slowly licked her lips, as if she was anticipating a delicious feast. Audrey almost tripped and fell trying to get away as fast as she could.
And the whole weekend was like that. No matter where Audrey went, Misty was there as well, watching, smiling and anticipating. It got so bad, that Audrey locked herself in her room after lunch Sunday laying across her bed, wondering what Misty was planning.
Why is she watching me so closely? It's like she's hunting me! She thought. And then she remembered. Misty's familiar was an osprey, a predatory raptor. Audrey remembered seeing one on a camping trip when she was young. She marveled at how the bird had been perched motionless on a dead tree overlooking a lake, staring at the water with fierce unblinking eyes. Suddenly, the osprey took wing over the lake, and dived down into the water, emerging with a trout clutched in its talons that was easily twice its weight. She remembered it shrieking in triumph as it carried the fish back to its nest in the dead tree. No wonder she's such an instinctive flier! Is she hunting me like that fish? She wondered, shuddering.
Monday morning found Audrey determined to get on with her life. She got up 2 hours before reveille, and went out to run 10 miles in the cool morning air. Finishing in a little over an hour, she came back to her room, showered and quickly got dressed in her blues.
After a quick breakfast, Audrey arrived at the office, to find a cup of coffee and a muffin on her desk. She pushed them aside, pulled out a pile of student paperwork and began the laborious task of reading and grading it. Audrey was engrossed in her work, she didn't hear Misty saunter in. Seeing Audrey with her head down, working hard, she quietly came up behind her chair, and began massaging her neck and shoulders.
Audrey was surprised at the touch, and angrily shrugged off Misty's hands. Misty put her hands back on Audrey's shoulders and leaned down and whispered in her ear.
"Why don't you come over to my room tonight? We can spend time exploring each other secrets" she breathed
"I'm busy!" Audrey snapped.
Misty laughed in a way that sent chills up Audrey's spine. It seemed like everything Misty was doing and saying, was weaving a net to ensnare her.
"Oh, come on, don't tell me you aren't the least bit curious?" Misty purred. She leaned closer to Audrey and whispered, "Don't be so shy and nervous. We can take our time and I promise I'll be gentle, since it's your first time."
Audrey turned and glared at Misty with all the outrage she could muster. Misty stood up and quietly said "There are only two types of Witches who aren't with other Witches. Those who won't admit they want to be, and those who don't know they want to be. Which one are you?"
Audrey abruptly stood up, forcing Misty to move away. She gathered up all her paperwork and stormed out of the office. She made her way to the lounge, and spent the remaining time before class finishing up the student papers. Class seemed to last forever, and Misty was always there. In the hallway, in the lounge, even in the bathroom. There seemed to be no avoiding her. Finally, when class was dismissed for the day, Audrey literally ran for the door and her quarters.
Getting to her room without seeing Misty around, Audrey hastily changed out of her uniform and into a t-shirt and bikini shorts. She desperately needed advice, so she picked up the phone and started to call home, but then stopped and put the phone back on the hook. It was Monday, so her dad and Hannah would be at volleyball practice until late. Her mother was working the swing shift at the hospital, so she wouldn't be home till late either. She thought of who she could call and talk about what had been happening the last few days. Then it dawned on her. She picked up the phone again and dialed a number she knew by heart.
But all she got was a mechanical voice saying "The number you have tried to reach has been changed. The new number is 253-242-5606."
Writing it down, Audrey dialed it immediately. The other line picked up on the first ring, and a raspy soprano voice answered "Gains and Rogers residence."
In a voice mixed with relief and happiness, Audrey said "Auntie Em, is that you?"
There was a slight hesitation and the voice responded. "Audrey! It's so good to hear from you! We haven't seen you since you returned from Vietnam! What's going on? Your mom told us you were now an instructor at Fighter Weapons! How is Jabby? Tell me all about you and what's been happening."
Audrey breathed a sigh of relief. Emily Gains was her father's youngest sister, only a few years younger than her mother. When Audrey was born, she was a newly minted Strike Witch Lieutenant in the Liberion Air Force, who had been sent to Kita. A few years after returning from Kita, Emily left the Air Force, and found herself feeling alone and isolated, so she became closer to her big brother's family, turning into the doting aunt to her young nieces.
When Audrey came into her magic and found a familiar at the age of seven (most Witches don't show any sign of magic until they're 11 or 12), Janet called on Emily to help Audrey learn to cope with the early onset of her magic. She became like a big sister, mentor, guide, confidant, and sounding board to both Audrey and Kerry, as they both grew into their magic.
Emily had been Audrey's inspiration to join the Air Force as a Strike Witch, after hearing her stories of her time in Kita with the 44th Joint Fighter Wing, an international unit fighting the Neuroi. She used her influence to help gain a US Senator's endorsement for Audrey to join the Air Force and be selected for Strike Witch flight training. In some ways, Audrey was as close to Emily as she was to her own mother.
Audrey took a deep breath and tried to blurt out everything that happened in the past five years in one breath. Emily laughed and told Audrey to take her time and not leave out any of the details. She was very concerned on how Audrey had reacted to learning that her magic was diminishing, and applauded her for taking the proactive steps to stay in the Air Force, even if she wasn't in a front line squadron. Emily asked several questions about Juggs, Jabby, and the whole curriculum that Audrey was teaching at Fighter Weapons. She almost squealed in delight about Will and was distressed to hear about their difficulties
"All right, Oddball, what's going on? You didn't call me just to catch up. What can I help you with?" Emily said, in a brisk tone.
Audrey paused for a moment. No one else had ever used that nickname, except for Emily. She had forgotten how perceptive Emily was in picking up on her moods and feelings. She took a deep breath and poured out everything about her and Misty, including the past few days and her feelings of being hunted, like a prey animal.
Emily listened to all Audrey had to say. When Audrey paused, after asking for help in deciding how to deal with the situation with Misty, there was silence for a few moments.
"I can certainly give you advice on dealing with your problem, but I need to tell you something, and make a confession." Emily said quietly.
Audrey gripped the phone tightly. Was she going to suggest she resign her commission and leave the Air Force, give in to Misty, or some other radical action?
"I have to tell you that I'm a lesbian. I prefer being with other women. Christine and I are a bonded couple and we've even bought a house together in Kent. Your parents have known this about me for a long time. I actually told them before I shipped out to Kita. I apologize for not being honest enough to tell you the truth before, but I feel I had to do this now. Hopefully this doesn't change anything between us, and that we can still be family." Emily said in a small, quiet apologetic voice.
Audrey was surprised, but then she wasn't. All the strange occurrences around Emily, her total disinterest in dating and cute guys, her lack of a boyfriend or husband, her hugely enthusiastic greeting of Christine when she came to Seattle, the way the way the two of them seemed inseparable, it all made sense now.
"You're still my Auntie Em, you're still someone I trust to give me good advice and we'll always be family." Audrey declared strongly.
"Thank you" Emily said quietly.
"Now listen up, Oddball. I know how you want everyone to get along, and how you hate hurting other people, but you have to do precisely what I say, or there no way stopping this woman, Is that clear?" Emily stated, her tone becoming stern and commanding.
"First of all, you have to tell her in no uncertain terms, that you will never have anything to do with her outside of work. That your life is your own and that you have decided that she will never be with you in the way she wants. That the decision is final and not open for negotiation or discussion. Got that, Oddball.?" Emily commanded sternly
"But what good will that do? Doesn't she already know I don't?" Audrey almost whined.
"It's as much for you as it is for her. You have to clearly state your view and set the boundary on what's acceptable to you. If she crosses that, you can take further action, knowing she was warned beforehand. For you, it means you have decided what you will accept and that you put your own personal integrity above someone imposing their will on you." Emily continued in her stern commanding tone.
"Second thing, inform your squadron CO on what's going on. This is something they need to know. If there is a problem of inappropriate behavior under their command, they are bound by duty to deal with it to preserve the cohesion and morale of their unit. Besides, having the brass on your side sure beats having to oppose them." Audrey could almost hear the smile in Emily's voice at the last part.
"Third, spend as little time as possible in close proximity of her. If you share an office or classroom, see if you can move to a different space. If you can't, spend as little time as possible in her company, and always do so in the presence of others. Don't let her get you alone any place." Emily declared.
"Finally, and this is most important, continue on with your activities, no matter if she's there or not. Don't let her mere presence around the places you like and form part of you daily routine force you to change. Ignore her and continue on with whatever it is you normally do. Don't let her dictate what you do, where you go, who you see or force you into doing anything you don't want to do." Emily said in a more encouraging tone.
So that's what needs to be done. How long is it going to take? What kind of collateral damage will there be? Why did it have to come to this? Why can't we all just get along? Audrey thought despairingly.
Emily's tone softened, sounding like the trusted older sister and confidant of her childhood. "Look, I know this is going to be hard on you, that you're going to have to do things you hate, but there isn't another way. It's going to take some time and you've got to know you can do it."
"Okay, if I gotta." Audrey said in a reluctant, semi-whiny, childlike voice, with an overtone of giggles.
"Yes, you gotta" Emily chuckled.
Continuing on in a more serous tone, Emily said "Let's get this started tomorrow. You know what to. I'll leave the how to you. If you need to talk, call us. If you want, I can tell this to Christine, and she would be able to help you too."
"Okay, you can tell her." Audrey said.
Glancing at her alarm clock, Audrey realized they'd been talking for almost 3 hours. "I need to let you go, I've taken enough of your time." she said apologetically.
"Oh it's been fun to catch up with you, Oddball. Just don't be a stranger! Or at least not any stranger than you already are! We'll talk later." Emily said brightly, and then hung up.
As Audrey hung up the phone, she realized that she hadn't eaten anything since breakfast this morning. She picked up the phone and ordered her a medium of her favorite pizza, Canadian bacon and fresh sliced tomatoes. She added a large Pepsi, and had them deliver it to the front desk. The pizza and Pepsi arrived in a half an hour. Audrey took them back to her room, where she wolfed down the pizza and guzzled the Pepsi. Feeling full, if not better, she turned in, formulating a plan of action for tomorrow as she fell asleep.
The next morning, Audrey went through her normal routine of running, showering, getting into her uniform and having a quick breakfast before heading to the squadron building. Colonel Washington had recently retired, and Danno had been promoted and elevated to Squadron Commander a few weeks ago. Audrey went to the CO's office, hoping to catch Danno before she got too busy.
Coming into the CO's outer office, she saw Master Sergeant Carmen "Ghia" Alvarez at the secretary's desk.
"Master Sergeant, is the Colonel busy right now?" Audrey asked with formal politeness.
"Let me check, Captain" Ghia answered, looking at the scheduling calendar. "Nope, she's free for a couple minutes. Can I tell her what this is about?"
"It's personal." Audrey said with some reluctance.
"Okay" Ghia said, as she got up and stuck her head inside the inner office door.
Ghia pulled her head back, turning to look at Audrey. "You can go in now, Captain."
Audrey went into the CO's office. Danno was seated behind the desk and gestured to one of the chairs.
"Have a seat, Boings. Tell me what's going on with you." she said in a calm, but brisk tone.
"Permission to speak freely, ma'am" Audrey said seriously, as she took a seat.
"Permission granted. What's on your mind, Boings?" Danno said seriously as her forehead wrinkled in concern.
"Ma'am, I've got a situation and I need your help." Audrey's tone became even more serious as she recounted the whole story of Misty's behavior and how it made Audrey feel.
Danno's expression became grimmer and sterner the more she heard from Audrey. She made a few notes and when Audrey finished, she spoke in a low tone.
"Thank you for informing me of this, Captain. I will deal with this matter personally. I'll check with Admin Ops. They were talking about opening some of the offices on the second floor. If one of them is ready, I'll have you move there ASAP. As for the rest, if she does anything else, let me know and I will handle it. If there isn't any thing else, you're dismissed." she spoke in a calm serious voice.
Audrey got up, came to attention, saluted and departed. She took a deep breath and let it out. One major thing done. She headed to the instructor's lounge. There should be some doughnuts today. A chocolate covered one with a cup of coffee sounded great.
As she sat down with her coffee and doughnut, she felt hands on her shoulders and a voice in her ear, purred "You know, I could have delivered coffee and doughnuts to you at your desk."
Audrey angrily shrugged off the hands on her shoulders and stood up. She turned to face Misty, her back stiff with outrage, her eyes blazing with anger.
"Don't bother. I don't want to have anything to do with you! Just keep your hands off me and leave me alone!" Audrey snapped.
"Wow, the girl has a bit of fire and spirit to her after all. I like that kind of spice!" Misty said languidly, with a slow smile.
"I mean it! I am not interested in you or any other woman, not now and not ever! So just leave me alone!" Audrey almost shouted.
Not waiting to hear Misty's retort, Audrey picked up her coffee and doughnut and stormed out of the instructor's lounge. She found an empty classroom and sat to eat her doughnut and drink her coffee, doing her best to calm the angry shaking of her hands. Regaining her composure, she finished her doughnut and coffee, and went to check with Admin Ops to see if there was an office available. But no one at Admin Ops had any information on newly available offices, so Audrey went back to her shared office, gathered up all of her paperwork and camped out in the instructor's lounge.
And so it went for the rest of the week. At first, Audrey was gratified by the other instructors coming by to see how she was and spend time shooting the breeze. By Friday, it started grating on her nerves, as she was spending more time talking than she was spending getting any work done. There were no flight ops scheduled due to an IG inspection of the Maintenance Squadron. As such, classes had been suspended, since the normal schedule would have been practice for the final practicum for this class cycle. For the most part, Misty seemed to be leaving her alone, so Audrey resumed her normal schedule of working out, eating, shopping and so on. Life seemed to resume its routine and Audrey was grateful for that.
However, everything went all to hell on Monday. Audrey got notification that Facilities had finished putting power and phone into a new office, as well as furniture. She swung by Admin Ops, picked up a key and signed for the office contents. She went down to Supply, picked up a couple of boxes, and went back to the shared office to pack up her desk and bookshelves. She found a cup of coffee, a bear claw and a box of chocolates on her desk. These she dumped in the trash and started packing quickly. The last thing she packed was the figurine Will had given to her for her birthday. She wrapped it carefully and put it in the top of the last box. Her heart lurched thinking about Will, and she resolved to call him and set a time where they could talk about their relationship.
Audrey's new office was small and cramped, but it had new furniture and been recently painted. She didn't have much stuff to move, so she got unpacked and set up fairly quickly. After returning the boxes to Supply, Audrey was on her way to her new office, when a hand reached out from one of the storerooms and dragged her in.
Misty used her height and leverage to pin Audrey against the wall and began kissing and groping her.
"You're mine and no one else's. You belong to me and only me. I'll show you the error of your ways and engulf you in pleasure you've never imagined before." Misty summered between kisses.
"Get off me and get your hands off me, RIGHT NOW!" Audrey yelled.
"We were meant to be together, two lovers bound together by magic and passion. We will have a love of the ages." Misty went on, as if she never heard Audrey.
Misty was the taller, but Audrey outweighed her by some 30 pounds, most of it muscle. Audrey got her hands up on Misty's shoulders and managed to push her away. She made a break for the door, and began walking rapidly down the corridor. Misty came out of the storeroom and lunged to grab Audrey's left hand.
As Misty jerked her left arm, Audrey spun, her right hand arcing up without thinking. There was a resounding CRACK! as Audrey's hand connected with Misty's face and Misty stumbled back against the wall, a print of Audrey's hand on her left cheek. Misty was about to lunge at Audrey again, when a voice thunderously shouted, "STAND DOWN! BOTH OF YOU! RIGHT NOW!
Both Audrey and Misty snapped and braced at attention. A blazing angry Colonel Greene came up to them with quick angry strides.
Danno looked at both of them, and in a quieter but no less angry and dangerous voice said "Gains, Ramirez, my office, NOW!"
All three of them turned and marched to the Squadron CO's office. Both Audrey and Misty snapped to attention in front of Danno's desk, as she came around and sat down. There was silence as Danno just looked at the two of them, doing her best to control her temper.
Picking up the phone, she said, "Master Sergeant, please connect me with General Jablonski's office. Hello, Captain Morris, is the General in? I need to speak to her, please. Yes, I'll hold."
Danno waited for a few moments and began speaking again.
"Morning ma'am. This is Colonel Greene of the 67th. We've had an incident. Yes it involves a couple of instructors. You said that you wanted to handle these incidents. Yes, ma'am, I'll have my report on your desk before lunch. Yes, ma'am I understand. Yes, ma'am" Danno answered respectfully and then hung up the phone. Turning to the two Witches, Danno glared at them.
"Ramirez, wait outside until I call for you. Gains, you stay" Danno growled.
When Misty left and closed the door, Danno glared at Audrey and snapped,
"All right, Gains, striking a fellow officer is a serious offense. What the hell happened? And spare me the bullshit!"
Audrey took a deep breath. Would Danno believe me even if I told her the truth? She wondered. She'd just have to tell what really happened and hope Danno would believe her. She then started reciting the events that led up to when Danno saw her smack Misty.
For her part, Danno listened and took notes. When Audrey finished, Danno scribbled more notes and looked sternly at her.
"So, you believe this was a result of what we discussed last week?" Danno asked as she pulled a file folder out of a desk drawer.
Audrey nodded, not trusting herself to say anything. Danno opened the file folder, read some of it and looked up to Audrey.
"General Jablonski has taken direct jurisdiction over such incidents, so you both will be meeting with her later this afternoon. You're confined to your quarters until you're notified when you see the General. She'll listen to both your stories and decide what to do with both of you." Danno said, in a stern tone.
In a softer, less formal tone, Danno continued, "It was a good thing you came to me about this last week. Just tell the General the truth and she'll decide it fairly. I'll be sending my report with all those notes as well. Keep the faith, Boings! Dismissed."
Audrey almost ran out of Danno's office and darted back to her room. Not knowing what to do, she stripped down and took a long shower. She felt better when she came out, stretching out on her bed, wrapped only in a towel. After a while, she got up and pulled out her class A uniform. If this is my last day in the Air Force, I might as well look as good as I can She thought. She checked it over carefully, making sure her name tag, insignia, and award ribbons were properly placed
She touched the Bronze Star with the combat V, awarded for her first mission in Vietnam. She touched the next ribbon, the Purple Heart, awarded for the injuries she suffered when she got shot down. Memories came flooding back and tears silently flowed down her cheeks as she remembered and mourned lost comrades. She wiped her eyes, blew her nose and took a deep breath. If this is the end of her Air Force career, so be it. She had tried to do the right thing, and if that wasn't enough, maybe it was time to move on.
The shrill ring of the phone cut the silence of Audrey's room. She grabbed the phone and said mechanically, "Gains here"
"Captain Gains, this is Captain Morris from the Commandant's office. You are to report here at 1300 hours today. Do not be late." the voice recited in a monotone.
"Acknowledged. Report to the Commandant's office 1300 hours" Audrey answered in a similar monotone.
Hanging up the phone, Audrey glanced at her chronometer, and realized she had little over an hour to report. She set about brushing out her hair and braiding it. She then coiled it tightly on the back of her head and pinned it firmly. She applied some moisturizer to her face and some Chap stick. She then decided to go with the full Class A uniform, including the knee length skirt, and not just the bikini shorts. That meant underwear, pantyhose and the regulation pumps. She settled herself into a bra, put on her uniform shirt and then the Class A jacket. She picked up her purse, put her keys and wallet in it, and then set her service cap on her head. Looking at herself in the mirror as a last minute check, her heart and gut clenched at the sharp looking officer staring back at her. Looking at her alarm clock, she saw she had 20 minutes to report. She left her room, got into her car and drove over to the school HQ.
Getting to the Commandant's office 10 minutes early, Audrey was acknowledged by Captain Morris, and told to wait for the General. Audrey sat, trying not to fidget, thinking of the irony of being in a position where her Air Force career may yet end again.
After a few minutes, Captain Morris looked up from her desk at the beep from the intercom. She turned to Audrey and said, "The General will see you now."
Audrey got up and stiffly made her way to the inner office door. She knocked sharply, and opened it at the sharp "Come n" from behind it. She marched her way in, stopping and snapping to attention in front of the General's desk.
"Captain Audrey Gains, reports, Ma'am" Audrey announced as she sharply saluted.
General Jablonski pushed herself up from her chair and carefully balanced herself on her solitary leg. She came to attention, returned Audrey's salute and settled herself back into her chair.
"At ease, Captain. Have a seat." the General said in a neutral tone.
Audrey sat, still at attention. It wouldn't do to look too relaxed and casual in the General's presence, especially about a serious matter.
"Captain Gains, I've already heard from Captain Ramirez. I want to hear your version of the events leading up to this morning." General Jablonski in a calm, stern, no-nonsense tone.
Audrey took a deep breath and started recounting everything about her interaction with Misty, starting with her introduction when she joined the 67th. General Jablonski listened carefully, taking notes in an open folder on her desk, as Audrey's voice became unsteady when she talked about how Misty assaulted her and how she started stalking and hunting her. She even told of the conversation with Emily on deciding a course of action to respond to Misty.
"So you informed Colonel Greene about this situation, when, last Tuesday morning, right? And you requested to move to a different office at that time, correct?" the General asked in probing tone, as Audrey simply nodded.
The General read through the contents of the open folder, pausing every now and then to read something closely. Audrey sat still, doing her best not to fidget or even twitch at the General;'s every movement. Time seemed to stretch interminably. After what seemed like a long time, the General seemed to sigh, took off her glasses and looked sharply at Audrey.
"Striking a fellow officer is a serious offense. But in this case, it appears you were assaulted first and were only attempting to defend yourself. I am disappointed that you let your personal affairs affect the squadron's morale and readiness. As it was, you went to inform your chain of command at the first opportunity you had, so that was a good thing."the General stated in her "command" voice.
"Relax, Captain Gains. Take a deep breath. You did all the right things, and I am glad you had someone like Emily advising you and that you reached out for her help. I don't believe any action needs to be taken concerning your role in all this." the General said in a much milder, and less formal tone.
"What about Captain Ramirez? What's going to happen to her? I know I have my difficulties with her, but she is an excellent pilot and a good instructor.. I wouldn't like to see her career ruined because of me." Audrey said.
"Captain Ramirez has her own issues to deal with. Fighter Weapons is her third assignment in the past 2 years. She had been transferred from RAF Lakenheath and from Myrtle Beach for similar incidents. This was going to be her last chance to straighten out and salvage her career. The deal was, if she got caught sexually assaulting another Air Force member, that she would be subjected to the full force of the UCMJ. In reviewing her past record and Colonel Greene's notes on the current incident, I offered her a choice. She could face a summary courts martial, charged with "Conduct Unbecoming of an Officer of the US Air Force" and "Sexual Assault and Battery", probably found guilty, busted back to Airman Recruit and then be dishonorably discharged. Or she could resign her commission, leave the Air Force and still retain some of her benefits. She's currently consulting with JAG about her alternatives. I expect to hear back from her by tomorrow morning. If I don't hear from her by then, I will proceed with court martial proceedings and there is no stopping that process." General Jablonski stated in a coldly neutral tone.
The General smiled at Audrey, "You did good, Boings. You found yourself in a difficult position not of your own making. You reached out for help and advice when you knew you were out of your depth. You engaged your chain of command and tried to be proactive in dealing with the situation. The fact that the situation spiraled out of control is not your fault. I'm proud of how you dealt with it. I'm not sure many officers could have done as well. Take the rest of the day off and relax. Report for duty tomorrow morning as usual. You're dismissed" she said, with a warm pride in her voice.
"Yes, ma'am" Audrey said, the relief evident in her voice.
Audrey stood, came to attention and saluted. The General did the same.
As she turned to leave, the General said, "One thing, Boings"
"I hadn't thought of 'Big M' in years! If you see her or talk to her, tell her hi from me and ask her if she remembers who won the cranberry shooters battle" General Jablonski said, with a small smile.
At Audrey's quizzical look, General Jablonski smiled and said, "You'll have to ask her about it."
Audrey did her best to maintain her decorum and poise as she left the Commandant's office. She sped back to the BOQ, and once back in her room, quickly changed out of her class A's into a sports bra, t-shirt, bikini shorts, socks and track shoes. She felt such a surge of energy, that she had to do something physical. It was still way hot to go running, so she went to the gym and hit the weight training circuit, not once or twice but 4 times. She came back to her room, sweaty, exhausted, but with that pleasant ache that come from a good workout. She showered and changed again, enjoying her favorite Seafood night dinner at the O club. Coming back from the O club, she stripped down, crawled under the covers and was snoring in minutes.
The next morning, Audrey went through her daily routine of running, showering, getting dressed in the uniform of the day and having breakfast. After yesterday, this morning had an air of unreality, as Audrey's morning unfolded as it should. Things changed once she got to the squadron.
Audrey saw that the parking lot was so full, she had to park in the last row of spaces. Walking up to the main building, she saw that it was buzzing with activity. It seemed like every Witch associated with the 67th was there, even the ones that didn't teach or fly.
She heard bits and pieces of the conversational buzz. "Did you hear what happened to Misty Ramirez?" "She's gone! Her desk and locker are empty, even her BOQ room is clean!" "She's not even on the duty roster!" "I heard she got an emergency assignment in Thule Greenland!" "I heard she got transferred to the Navy and sent to McMurdo Sound!"
There was a loud sharp piercing whistle from the front of the building.
"All right, people! All hands meeting, Conference room D, right now! We'll kill the rumor machine!" Danno shouted.
With everyone crowded into the conference room, Danno strode to the podium at the front of the room.
"Ladies, I know the rumors have been flying thick and fast in the past few hours, so here's what we know. Captain Michelle Ramirez has left the 67th Squadron. We don't know where she went, and we don't know what she's doing. That's apparently none of our business. I'll be adjusting the duty roster and the teaching schedule for the upcoming class cycle. It's going to be tough to replace an instructor like Misty, but I am confident we are up to the challenge. That's it, all we know. So let's get back to work, ladies." Danno announced in a commanding tone.
Audrey slowly walked out of the conference room and up to her new office. She sat in her new chair and breathed a sigh of relief, The nightmare was over and her life was getting back on track. If only she could get back with Will.
Then her phone rang, the very first call to her new office. Audrey immediately grabbed the phone and automatically said, "Gains here"
"Audrey? Is that y'all?" that slow unhurried Southern drawl was unmistakable.
"Will, I was just thinking of you" Audrey breathed
"Well, Ah finished mah secret assignment, so Ah was wonderin' if y'all want ta git some dinner tonight. Ah finally got the clearance to talk to y'all about and Ah figgred we needed ta talk about a whole mess of other things" Will drawled.
"Sure, when and where?" Audrey asked
"How 'bout the O club at 1730?" Will answered
"Okay, I'll see you there in civilian dress, okay?" Audrey said, wanting to see Will not in uniform.
"Okay, see y'all ther then." Will drawled and then hung up.
Audrey carefully hung up the phone. Will sounded like he had returned to being normal. This whole summer had an air of unreality to it, from starting out normal, to being plunged into chaotic nightmarishness, back to seeming normalcy, as if the chaos had never happened. We'll see if Will and I can get back to what we were before all this happened she thought hopefully.
"