Sarah's first day at the Academy. Apologies for the long delay in getting this out. A huge crisis broke out at my day job that kept me on call 24/7 and I'm just now getting back to some sense of normalcy.
Chapter 7
The next morning Sarah awoke to a sense of anticipation. She got into her workout clothes and grabbed a snack and did some tai chi while she waited for Zondra. Carina had arranged to spend her last night in Italy at Vincenzo's place. When her friend finally appeared, dressed to run, Sarah switched to kicks, edging closer to Zondra each time. Zondra got the hint and they were soon running together for the first time in years.
"5k?" Sarah asked when they got to the trailhead.
"10," Zondra replied, just as she expected. They were always pushing each other for more.
As they made their way along the trail they noticed the young women on the trail tended to wear looser and less colorful clothes than their American counterparts. Sarah resolved to tone down her activewear while she was here. As each runner they passed glanced at them, Sarah automatically classified their threat level. They weren't afraid to make eye contact but more of them smiled than not. Sarah classified ambient tone as aggressive but not hostile. She could work with that. She heard a runner behind her and was impressed at the speed with which she overtook them.
"Wow, I'm gonna have to ask what HER workout routine looks like," Zondra said as the headmistress continued to pull away from them.
They had agreed Sarah would get the first shower as Zondra had nothing scheduled for that morning. She was soon clean and ready for her day. As she jogged to the firing range in her light tactical gear, she found herself idly wondering why Salvadore was so stiff and formal. He seemed to take less joy in his work than the other staff members she'd met.
"Buongiorno," Salvadore greeted her, holding out his hand. She took it automatically and he shook her hand firmly but not aggressively. The young man was about her height but clearly worked out. His face was classically handsome and everything in his manner said Type A military officer. He was a lot like most of her instructors at The Farm.
"Buongiorno," Sarah replied with a pleasant smile.
"Thank you so much for your time. I understand you trained Signore?" Salvadore asked cautiously.
"I may have been part of the team but believe me, the man I trained was nothing like the man he is now," Sarah laughed. She was unnerved by the bitter edge in her own laughter. "Just think of me as a skilled veteran who has no trouble earning a marksman's rating."
Salvadore responded with a curt nod. Without preamble he began a rundown of the weapons he trained students on. He favored the standard Beretta pistol and rifle and the Minimi light machine gun. He also included the Glock 26 and the Desert Eagle in his rotation. He described the safety course, the care and cleaning and the shooting drills. After a concise review of his curriculum he asked, "Can you think of any adjustments you might recommend?"
"Well the first thing we need to do is to get rid of this artificial penis," Sarah said, pointing to the Desert Eagle.
"That's only in the rotation to demonstrate that there ARE guns that are not well suited for women," Salvadore explained patiently.
"I'm sorry but I don't see the point of that lesson," Sarah replied evenly. "The small fraction of women determined to prove they can handle anything a man can will learn to do it. The rest want whatever works best."
"Very well, what weapons would you recommend?" he asked with a neutral tone.
Sarah paused to take a measure of how open he might actually be to suggestions. She decided she ought to start with the truth. "The way I see it students who leave the academy wanting to own guns should be confident they've found a good fit. We should have a wide range of Glock and Sig Sauer pistols. We'll also want some Smith and Wesson EZ options. Let's replace the Minimi with the Steyr TMP. We can keep the Berettas but let's stick to the compact versions. If we get an amazon who wants more we can pull out the heavy metal but in my experience, type A women are more focused on marksmanship than caliber."
Salvadore took some time to consider. He finally allowed, "You raise a good point about the objective of this course. Many of my students complain the weapons we use are unsuitable. I've tried to challenge them to learn the most common weapons in Italy but If they have options, they will either find something they like or have to admit they simply don't like guns."
"What kinds of holsters do you train with?" Sarah asked.
"We don't really need holsters, guns are stored and used here at the range," Salvadore replied, somewhat confused.
"The students who want guns will want to carry them concealed," Sarah said. "They'll make them a part of their wardrobe, like undergarments, and they'll feel just as exposed without them. Some women's fashions have no hiding places so we'll need purse holsters as well."
Salvadore mulled this over, then sighed and admitted, "Another good point. Have you taught women's firearms before?"
Sarah shook her head, "No, but I've carried guns in many different situations over the years."
Salvadore showed her the shooting drills he typically set up and she complimented his innovations, asking questions and suggesting variations. It was the kind of discussion and planning session she was used to when breaking down a mission with another agent so Sarah was in her comfort zone. She sensed that Salvadore wasn't and asked him about it.
"I'm used to discussing ideas with the headmistress and the leaders of the estate's security team," he admitted. "None of them have a clear idea of how to go about training women in firearms."
"Signore speaks highly of your understanding of your craft," Sarah said. "From what I've heard this morning I'd have to agree with him. My friend Zondra has a background similar to mine. If you ever want to toss some ideas around, the three of us should be able to find excellent solutions."
"I think I would enjoy that," Salvadore replied sincerely.
Sarah wandered the campus for a bit, just getting the feel of the place. Her observational skills had her senses fully engaged in a way that was second nature to her. Most people would probably have found her tendency to watch rather than interact when she was absorbing in this way to be more typical of someone on the autistic spectrum. The main difference was that she wasn't overwhelmed by the high volume of detail she was assimilating.
Sandra, Zondra and Carina had arranged to have lunch in a private dining room before Carina's departure. As they sat down and exchanged greetings, Sarah couldn't help but notice Carina was not herself.
"What's eating you Red?" Sarah asked simply.
Carina glared at Sarah, her mouth a thin line. Sarah didn't react and eventually Carina sighed, "It's Vinnie. He was SO into me and when it was time to say goodbye he just let go. He was just 'You were amazing, hope our paths cross again, have a great life.' I know what you're going to say. You're going to tell me I'm getting exactly what I deserve."
"I wouldn't wish what we deserve on ANY of us, babe," Sarah said softly. "If you're in pain I'm here for you, just tell me what I can do."
This was too much for Carina. The tension in her shoulders left and she slumped forward.
"I really thought I understood men. I thought I had them down to a science," Carina said quietly. "Running a business has made me soft. I honestly expected him to at LEAST beg me to stay if not follow me home. The worst part was that I actually asked him if I was the best he'd ever had. I've been on the other side of that question so many times I KNEW I'd made a mistake as soon as the words were out of my mouth."
"Ouch," Zondra winced. "I guess he laid on the reassurance too thick to be believed?"
"Worse," Carina said glumly. "He told me I was the SECOND best he'd ever had."
Sarah walked over and gave her friend a hug.
"It's OK, girl. Whatever you're feeling now, your edge will still be there when you need it. Believe me," Sarah said firmly.
"If he's learned ANYTHING from his boss, that boy was bound to be trouble," Zondra added ruefully. "I'm not ashamed to admit I never thought I could be as thoroughly owned as I've been by Charles."
Carina shocked her companions by reaching out for Zondra and Sarah and they quickly obliged. The three women clasped each other tightly and Sarah felt a primal goddess energy surge between them. She could tell Carina could feel it too as her spine straightened. Eventually she was able to let go and Sarah and Zondra returned to their seats.
"Let's make sure the three of us never lose touch again, OK?" Carina said with quiet resolve.
Sarah and Zondra nodded solemnly. They ate in silence for a few minutes.
"I forwarded your list to my peeps this morning," Zondra told Sarah. "They're good but I'm certain Charles has a longer reach than I do. Are you sure you don't want to bring him in on this?"
"Definitely not," Sarah said firmly. "Chuck's already done plenty in pulling my ass out of the fire in Singapore and giving me a place to hide. The last thing in the world I want to risk is accidentally bringing the wrath of the CIA down on the poor guy if they trace me here."
"I'll keep in touch with my spook buds, how should I forward updates to you two?" Carina asked.
"Let's set up a gmail account right now, we can talk through saved drafts," Sarah suggested. "We can code me as Aunt Jane and Shaw as Uncle Jack. Let's call the attack our last family reunion. We can call those killed victims of food poisoning."
"Sounds good to me," Carina agreed. "I'll be Mandy and and Zee can be my sister."
"I'll be Maddie," Zondra nodded her approval. They chatted amicably though the rest of their lunch and said their goodbyes to Carina.
When they returned to their cottage they found a note from Vincenzo inviting them to a reception to mingle with the staff that afternoon and to dine with the former owner of the estate that evening. They contacted him with their acceptance of both invitations after a short discussion. They enjoyed an intense sparring session followed by a soak in the whirlpool. Then they changed into casual clothes as suggested in the invitation although neither was able to resist carefully calibrating their wardrobe to their personality. As they entered the reception hall they were gratified to see that the rest of the staff were dressed as comfortably as they were.
As soon as they entered, they were greeted by a smiling Antonia. She seemed to be full of energy, personality and ease. Sarah guessed she was probably either an early graduate of the school or a young widow.
"Welcome, honored guests!" Antonia gushed, throwing her arms around Sarah and giving her a hug and a kiss. She repeated the greeting on Zondra. "Our humble academy has played host to celebrated artists from a wide array of genres but never have we had a visit from legends of the covert arts such as yourselves." She bowed so low Sarah was amazed she didn't fall.
"Thank you for your hospitality," Sarah said with a smile. "You are breathtaking. Are you here taking refuge from the savage jungle of the Milanese Fashionistas?"
"Oh, very adroitly done!" Antonia clapped. "How can I refuse to explain my background when you frame it as such a compliment? I was married to a handsome and ambitious young Neapolitan arms dealer who met an untimely end, as so many of them do, alas. I am taking refuge from what I believe you Americans call a 'meat market' for young widows. Would it be rude to wonder what brings women of your skills to Italy? I must admit to hoping Signore has managed to entice you to join our staff as instructors."
"My last boyfriend got bored with me and framed me for a terrible crime to get rid of me. I'm hiding amongst those who avoid contact with law enforcement while I search for a valiant knight who can clear my name," Sarah laughed.
"Alas!" Antonia dramatically mimed fainting. "Our horrible employer failed to mention that the students at our academy are all women. Knights are in short supply."
"In that case I'll just have to complete the mission on my own," Sarah smiled. "Between you and I, a knight's aid seldom lives up to its promises anyway."
Antonia laughed musically, "So very true. You are a sister in spirit if not in blood or law. If you ever have need of a mere woman's assistance I am at your service."
With a bow and wave she was off to find a new verbal fencing partner. Vincenzo found his way to them and said, "Let me introduce you to the staff you haven't had a chance to meet yet."
"This is Gomez, my partner instructor in the martial arts," he said, bringing the short dark man who had been trailing him to the front. "Gomez, this is Sarah, Signore's mentor and her comrade Zondra. Zondra still works for the Company which shall not be named but Sarah is with us until she can sort out a misunderstanding with them."
"Truly an honor," Gomez said as he took each woman's hand and kissed it in turn. "I apologize for not taking time out of my class to introduce myself. I try to emphasize mindfulness with my students and if I invite even the most beautiful and deadly distractions into my training room, I fear losing the sliver of credibility I've earned."
"Do either of you perform music?" Vincenzo asked the women. They both looked at each other for a moment, then shook their heads. "A pity. Gomez is a sorceror on guitar."
"Nice try, my friend but I will not be distracted," Gomez said, raising an eyebrow at Vincenzo. "If either of you has the time or inclination, I would be delighted to spar with you in any form of you choose."
"What time might you be free tomorrow?" Zondra asked, taking up the challenge.
"I am free before 9am or between 11am and 2pm," Gomez replied, his eyes shining.
"Then I will see you at 11," Zondra concluded with a smile.
As Vincenzo continued introducing them to people they hadn't met Sarah got the distinct impression that most of them were watching her closely. After they had made the rounds she asked Vincenzo about it.
"You have to understand, Signore's reputation in Napoli is mysterious and terrifying. There are actually Camorra families where the children are warned that Galois will come for them if they misbehave," Vincenzo held up his hands as her eyebrow shot up. "As someone who as worked closely with him, I must admit I would be terrified myself if I knew he was coming for me. The stories Signore tells me about his time before Italy are difficult for me to believe. I imagine the stories told about him now are just as difficult for you to accept."
"So they're all wondering if I'm a master of some kind of dark magic fighting style?" Sarah asked incredulously.
"Just so," Vincenzo replied soberly. "The idea that magic exists is as common here as the idea that it doesn't is in the US."
They had some time between the reception and dinner and as Zondra checked the latest replies from her contacts she asked Sarah, "Do you remember an analyst named Steven LaBarge?"
"Absolutely," Sarah nodded. "He was the top analyst on our task force."
"Apparently he's considered a bit obsessed by his fellow analysts. He's got some wild theories about Shaw having a rogue agenda," Zondra explained. "Sounds like a promising lead."
"That's GREAT news," Sarah lit up. "If Daniel left ANY evidence that the family reunion was his plan, I'm sure Steven can find it."
Zondra sent word to her contacts to reach out to LaBarge and they dressed for dinner.
When they arrived at the appointed dining room a very fit silver haired Italian gentleman got up from his seat to greet them.
"Thank you so much for accepting my invitation! I am Benito, head of the Vico family," he said. He kissed their hands as they each introduced themselves.
Their first course arrived and all three of them enjoyed the food. Benito told stories about the local connections to the dishes they enjoyed and the conversation and wine flowed amicably. It wasn't until they were enjoying coffee after dessert that he brought up the subject of his relationship with Charles Galois.
"This estate has been the seat of the Vico family generations," he explained. "During the 20th century, the family trade turned from agriculture to weapons trafficking. I was blessed with five fine sons. Unfortunately, the arms business was competitive and lawless and in a single decade, all five died conducting business. The only male Vicos left were myself and my grandson, Salvadore. The family was on the brink of extinction. In a desperate attempt to avert this disaster, I sold my business interests and vowed that the Vico family would steer clear of all dangerous or illegal business starting with Salvadore."
"Salvadore, unfortunately, had grown up living and breathing weapons. He deeply resented my decision and resolved to defy me. He formed a daring plan. There was a substantial bounty on an American who had disrespected the families of Napoli. Salvadore would succeed where many others had failed. He would kill the American, collect the bounty, and use the money and the respect he would gain to start his own business."
"Salvadore had good tactical instincts and an excellent understanding of the tools of his trade. If he had a team backing him up, he may have succeeded where others had failed. Unfortunately, there was no way to hire a team without word getting back to me. So he tried to execute a plan by himself using weapons staged at different points in his ambush site. The American was able to defeat him easily. Having defeated him, the American was puzzled by Salvadore's tactics and before disposing of him, he asked for an explanation. The two of them ended up discussing tactics and options for quite some time and the American was surprised to find that he could not bring himself to kill his attacker and waste his talent. The American discarded many alternatives to killing Salvadore and in the end decided that the least horrible idea was to broker an understanding between the Vico men. He imprisoned Salvadore in a secure location and set off in pursuit of me."
"I may have retired but memories in this part of the world are long so I maintained a good security force. The American realized that it was unlikely that he would be able to elude them long enough for a proper conversation at the estate, so he abducted me. Having done this, he bound me and sat me beside my disobedient grandson. He told us we had two choices. We could come to an understanding or die of dehydration, side by side."
"I would have rather died than reward my disobedient grandson and he would have rather died than to obey me. The American worked hard to persuade each to understand the position of the other to very little effect. Being just as stubborn as a Vico and having an inventive mind, the American kept suggesting one harebrained idea after another. Over long hours he was able to wear us down and get us to agree that IF Salvadore could use his skills ONLY as a legal, non-combatant security consultant, I might be able to forgive his defiance to the point where Salvadore's children could inherit the estate. The problem with this harebrained scheme is that upon my death there were plenty of methods to defeat any legal protections against violating my wishes. Putting the estate in the hands of any consigliere in Napoli would almost FORCE Salvadore to continue in the arms trade."
"And so it was that the crazy American agreed to be my consigliere. I sold the entire Vico estate to him for a token sum. He swore a solemn oath to obey my wishes and I was willing to bet the Vico legacy on his honesty. It was easier than you might expect because I had accepted our extinction as the most likely outcome anyway. The American set up an office for Salvadore's security consultancy and we both live on the estate as permanent guests."
"I told the Camorra that Charles Galois had joined my family and agreed to respect our traditions going forward if they could forgive his past behavior. There was intense disagreement but they finally agreed to those terms if Charles agreed never to publicly act as an agent of the US government. Charles has actually mediated some disputes between families since then and his neutrality and judgement are well respected. Eventually, he turned the estate into an academy for their most unruly daughters."
"I find it hard to believe the Camorra could take Chuck seriously as your consigliere," Sarah frowned skeptically.
"It was unusual," Benito admitted with a wry grin. "Imagine a dragon ravaging the countryside, hunted by everyone. Then I tell them I've trained him as my watchdog. It provided another reason for them to steer clear of me and be grateful I'm retired."
"So Charles is holding the estate in trust for Salvadore's children if he stays away from the underworld?" Zondra asked.
"Yes, but please do not repeat the story of his relationship to my family," Benito said earnestly. "If our arrangement became generally known Salvadore would be constantly fending off the attentions of students with visions of becoming mistress of the Academy."
"So why tell us?" Zondra wondered suspiciously.
"Charles assured me that you're both capable of keeping secrets and that you're both good women comfortable with the use of arms but not part of the criminal underworld," Benito admitted sheepishly. "To be honest I'm constantly searching for potential daughters-in-law. I do not regret my decision to keep Salvadore out of Camorra business but he is still very uncomfortable in his own skin as an outsider. It would mean a great deal to me if you would cultivate some degree friendship with him even if you have no romantic interest in him."
"I would have thought you'd prefer he find a nice Italian girl," Sarah mused.
"In an ideal world, that would be wonderful," Benito shrugged. "In the world we live in, any Italian girl comfortable being around the underworld is already a part of it."
"I'd be happy to be Salvadore's friend," Zondra allowed. "I can't speak for Sarah but she's probably already there."
"Salvadore seems like a nice guy," Sarah agreed. "I appreciate the trust you've put in us by explaining his situation and will do what I can to help him come to terms with it."
As the women returned to their cottage, Sarah tried to understand why their dinner with Benito had unsettled her so much. She considered and discarded a number of explanations before she hit on one that resonated. She was used to Chuck neurotically hovering whenever another man showed romantic interest in her. The idea that he had vetted her as potential daughter-in-law to Benito was a shock. She had consciously accepted the fact that HER Chuck was gone for good but some subconscious part of her still held on to him as the same man. As she turned it over in her mind she realized that deep down she assumed most of his pain was due to the fact that he still longed to be with her. She was a LONG way from being ready to open herself up to anyone but that subconscious part of her assumed that if she ever did, Chuck would be available. The fact that he wasn't holding on to Zondra any tighter than to her was cold comfort. Would Chuck really be willing to spend the rest of his life avoiding her as just an unpleasant reminder of the innocence he lost and could never recover? The idea made her sleep fitfully all night long.