"I have a thousand questions and nothing you've said or done makes any sense…. but if you say you can shoot thats good enough for me. I'm Cpt Patryk, who are you?"
Present Day - RAF Mildenhall
With a flash of bright light the Priest House warp-gate activated, in the lights wake four beings stood in the midst of the small garden, still looking well kept. As the four made their way through the garden Pearl had stopped to chat with chat with someone she had introduced as the grandson of someone named Howard. After a brief wait in the morning sun admiring the quaint town the group boarded the first of a series of buses to bring them to a place Pearl had promised would be very interesting to them. The entire trip out two of them were glued to the windows as they took pictures and chatted excitedly about the passing landscape, the third sat looking bored, while the fourth quietly watched the two children at the window.
"Pearl! This is wonderful, I'm so looking forwards to seeing one of the places from your stories. My parents were surprised about a 'day trip' to England but they trust you so it worked out." gushed Connie as she returned her gaze to the countryside outside.
Steven paused in his sightseeing a moment to resume his seat as he carefully placed his hand on Pearl's shoulder, his expression conveying worry instead of his usual carefree attitude. "Pearl, are you sure you're okay to be out here? After that episode at the theater I'm worried about you. I mean, what if something triggers another flashback or worse?"
Pearl smiled as she patted his hand reassuringly, true, she was worried about a relapse as the previous 'event' was still fresh in her mind. "Don't worry Steven, I think it was just that that Movie was a bit more intense than I'd expected. I'm sure I'll be okay."
"Is that why I'm stuck with you clods on this field trip?" grumbled Peridot from the next bench over. "I'm glad you're doing better and all but you know this history stuff isn't really my thing."
Pearl grinned at the young Gem as she reached over to playfully ruffle her triangle hair; much to the little Gems annoyance. "Nope, you're along because I think you'll enjoy the subject matter of the stories I have planned for today. That and we need to get you some more exposure to the outside world."
An hour later and a short walk through the towns the group arrived at their destination; RAF Mildenhall military airfield. A young ensign greeted the group then lead them to a comfortable lobby to wait, a few minutes later a man strode into the room dressed in the uniform of a fighter pilot, his coat was covered with colorful badges. After taking a moment to asses the group he strode over to Pearl for a formal handshake as he introduced himself.
"Hello, I'm Captain Cheshire and you must be Pearl, Steven, Connie and um Peridot?" He paused for a moment to stare at the short green woman standing in front of him. After a moment of Peridot glaring back at him as if daring him to say something he continued. "Right, so, I'll be your guide today as we'll be touring the maintenance depot, the alert facility to see a ready launch jet, then lastly the squadron ready rooms."
"Pearl! This is going to be great, how did you ever get it setup!? I thought facilities like this were supposed to be off limits to civilians!?" asked Steven as he too went to look out the window with Connie following close behind.
"Pearl is a legend here, at the base, when she called and asked about a tour the base commander was happy to oblige. There is a picture of her in the squadron ready room." answered Cheshire before Pearl could respond.
"It also helps that I still maintain a good number of contacts within the RAF and Commando units." said Pearl smirking, "It always pays to keep in touch."
Peridot huffed as she wandered over to the window to look out at the planes lined up on the flight line. "So, we're going to be studying primitive earth aircraft? What could be so remarkable about a craft limited to the atmosphere with an even more limited performance envelope. Now the Gem warships, THOSE are something to see."
Capt Cheshire wasn't one to take an insult and walk as he replied with a challenge of his own "Young lady, you don't watch many action movies do you? Independance Day would be a good place to start. These might be primitive by your standards but in the right hands these can be every bit as dangerous as your ships."
Peridot just started at the Captain as she muttered one simple phrase that put the argument of who's aircraft were better to an end. "Orbital bombardment."
Cheshire grimaced for a moment before making his reply to even the score. "Rods from God"
"Okay, thats enough, Peridot, perhaps instead of passing judgement you can use your vast technical knowledge to give the Captain here some pointers on how they can improve their aircraft!" suggested an annoyed Pearl, it wouldn't due to have their tour-guide to this highly off-limits facility decide that the visit wasn't worth the trouble after all.
Capt Cheshire had decided to let the matter drop as well as he nodded his thanks to Pearl as he began to hand out pamphlets with tour information and confidentially forms.
Pearl smiled as she nodded affirmation that it was time to get the tour moving. "Thank you Captain, I've already briefed these three on proper behavior at such a facility so there will be no trouble...right Peridot?"
"Right" answered indicated Gem as she picked up a flight manual for a Eurofighter Typhoon and began to quickly flip through it. "Hey, can I have a look at one of these when we get to the maintenance depot? I've got a couple ideas already."
Cheshire grinned as he motioned for the group to follow him out the door.
000 June 1940 RAF Mildenhall - Woman's dorm
The sound of the air-raid siren jolted her from her meditations, quickly she threw on her uniform, boots, grabbed her rifle, then ran out of her room. In a flash she was down the stairs and sprinting across the base grounds to the rally point for non-essential personnel at the air-raid bunker built into the hill behind the barracks building. Already there were dozens of people from women in nurses uniforms, soldiers, mechanics, and dozens of others not needed for the fight filing into the shelter. But not Pearl, she instead headed up the hill to find a comfortable spot under an old oak tree to watch the coming battle.
Sighing to herself as she got comfortable she reflected on the events of the last couple weeks that led to her being there. Hearing the roar of fighter aircraft she looked skywards to watch the battle.
After arriving in England from Dunkirk the squad had spent a week watching the coast for an invasion that failed to materialize. Without much to-do the squad was given leave to recover and get some R&R to which end each went their separate ways until once again summoned by Command. James had invited Pearl to accompany him to visit his family's farm, which was tempting, but she declined saying she wasn't ready but allowed him to take a nice picture with her as consolation to show his parents. In truth she just needed to be alone to think and recuperate on her own terms. There was the temptation to go visit Beach City but she opted against it, she knew herself and her own impulses for if she dared to visit home she wasn't sure she could leave it to return to the war. So instead she waited at the airfield for orders.
The faint strobe-flashes of heavy aircraft guns accompanied by the faint crackle of the guns was visible in the distance brought her back to the present. The battle between bombers and fighters was much closer now; she could just make out the dark shapes against the bright star lit sky. As she watched a feeling of uselessness washed over her. She couldn't use her spear to simply blast the enemy out of the air, she couldn't use her commando abilities against aircraft, most base facilities turned her away saying she wasn't needed or to spend her time on guard duty. Frustrating to say the least.
An hour later the battle was over, no major damage tonight, just some new craters in the runway which were easy to patch and some bullet damage. This night most of the defenders made it back too.
With nothing left to see she stood up to she was about to start the walk back towards her dorm room when something on the other side of the airfield caught her eye. It was the repair depot turning the lights back on now that the enemy-raid was over, the over-head work lights lit to the bare minimum to work by. As she watched, her keen eyes could make out the shapes of men working on the aircraft, many of them looked like they had worked through the battle rather than take shelter. Making a note of it, she headed back to her dorm to resume her meditations.
000 RAF Mildenhall - Repair Shops
The next morning Pearl arrived at the repair depot to find the place buzzing with activity as if it was a hornets struck by a rock. Every available space was filled with spare parts, men toiling away to fix some random component, tools, test equipment, manuals, and all manner of other randomness. As she stood in the doorway watching the activity she could see that there was an organization to the chaos as a battle damaged fighter rolled in just as a freshly serviced one rolled back out to rejoin the fight. Smiling to herself at memories of the gem-ship depot from the rebellion she watched as the new arrivals engine was disassembled then tracked what looked like the ignition system make its way to a work bench.
"Is there something I can help you with Miss? Pearl isn't it?" asked a gruff voice from the side.
She turned to greet the man standing next to her with his hand held out to offer an friendly shake. He was a middle aged man with greying hair and weathered face from too many hours working in the sun, narrow shoulders, strong arms, and to her amusement she was taller than him. "Oh, sorry, just observing between guarde shifts. Yes, I'm Specialist Pearl of the Commandos." Replied Pearl as she grasped his calloused hand to give a firm handshake. "I saw the action last night and well I've learned a few things about human engines and mechanisms the last few months that I was curious if I could help out.
The man just stared at her for a moment as if she had sung her reply. "Human machines?"
Pearl tensed up at the slip-up, think fast. "Just a joke, what did you say your name was?"
This redirect seemed to have the desired effect as the man shook off his surprise and turned to walk into the maintenance facility. "Follow me." At the prompt Pearl followed him without thinking first as she soon found herself walking at a brisk pace as the man threaded his way effortlessly through the chaos. "I've never seen a woman mechanic but I'm too shorthanded to care if bog-monster showed up to offer its services. I'm Sgt Wayne, most just call me Wayne."
Pearl smiled as now she had a name to call him by. "Great, I know a few things about truck engines, electronics, and some mechanics in general from my own tinkering." shouted Pearl confidently as the two arrived at a workbench with a young man wearing a Private rank was working on the ignition system she'd seen earlier. "Is this where you want me to help out?"
Wayne nodded as he picked up a nearby toolbox to set it in front of her with a metallic thud. "Yep, get to work, Follow Pvt Marty's directions and if you can fix that I'll let you work on something more important later." With that the older repair man turned on his heel to march off to another part of the building.
Pearl watched him go then turned her attention to the task at hand, fixing an ignition system for a high performance fighter engine. Simple. "Okay Marty , where are you in troubleshooting this? How far have you gotten as I can see some issues already that we should fix up before moving to the main problem"
Marty didn't reply as the young man, couldn't be older than 19, just stared at her as if transfixed.
Pearl sighed as she rolled her eyes, typical. "Okay young man, first things first, yes, I'm a female, no I'm not available as I'm dating someone, I know my way around most engines but I need you to show me the unique aspects of aircraft engines." Marty seemed to shrink back a bit at her confidence, his eyes darting to the side as if he was looking for support from something standing just out of eyesight.
Following his gaze Pearl noted that a few of the other technicians had stopped working to watch the confrontation. Pearl sighed as she allowed herself to relax. "Make friends, not enemies" she whispered to herself as she put on a kind smile to seem less threatening. "Sorry about that, it has been a tense last few weeks, Wayne says you're short handed and I would love to help out if you'd have my assistance."
Before anyone could reply Wayne wandered back over to the electronics repair area, his face conveying annoyance at the scene before him. "Blast it Marty, show the lady what she needs to know and bring her up to speed on the repairs. Even a layman understanding of this stuff will help with the simple fixed. Now the rest of you, I told you that I don't care if bog-monster offers to help fix engines! YOU ACCEPT the help. SHE IS A BOG-MONSTER! ACCEPT THE HELP! NOW GET TO WORK!."
With that Wayne turned to storm off to another part of the shop, the eyes of the repair crew all watched him go with a mix of shock and some trepidation. But they had their orders and no luxury to argue.
"Okay Pearl" began Marty with a voice that conveyed his nervousness. "You know how how a carburetor works? An ignition system? Yes?! Okay, good, here is where we left off."
000 RAF Mildenhall - Repair Shops
"Almost got it" muttered Pearl as she put the last bit of torque to the engine mounting bolt. Wiping the grime from her hands on her now soiled pants she stepped back to admire her work. It was a Merlin engine she had personally stripped down to its bare components (sans the heavy engine block itself) then re-assembled from memory. "I'll bet you a ten-pound note that it starts up on the test stand." she declared confidently to the small group of men who'd shown up to watch the end of the marathon challenge.
Wayne had been keeping an eye on her during her tenure at the maintenance facility over the course of the past week stepped forwards to begin a careful inspection of the engine. Carefully he combed over it as he noted each connection, nut, and bolt was checked. Finally he too stepped back to bark orders at the curious group of onlookers. "Okay, you four help the lady put it on the test stand then fire it up." Ordered Wayne. "The rest of you Erks show is over, get back to work!"
With the orders given Wayne then walked over to stand before Pearl as he looked her over noting her tired appearance and dirty coveralls she'd traded her regular uniform for. "I can't officially take you in or assign you to a group as you're technically not under my command but I have need of an on-call roving tech to help out groups that are short handed or need an expert. You up for it?"
Pearl was stunned at the offer as she stumbled for words; it meant that she would be able to put her new found knowledge to work instead of just as a way to pass the time. "I accept your offer but please realize that if the Commando group calls me back I'll be compelled to go." But something still bothered her. "But how can you be so confident? The engine hasn't even been tested yet, the bet is still on."
For the first time since she'd met the gruff shop boss Wayne's face brightened with a large smile and merry eyes as he gave his answer. "Just instinct, a good yard boss can tell a natural. Do you honestly think I would have let you take up valuable shop space and technician time if I thought otherwise.?"
Pearl smiled sheepishly at the compliment. "Eeerr no, I suppose you wouldn't have" agreed Pearl awkwardly. Glancing behind Wayne at the test stand she was glad to see the engine was ready.
Wayne must have noticed her shift her gaze as he too resumed his observation of the engine. "That all set?" he shouted as the group of techs climbed down from the engine and over to the test console. "Fire it up!"
Nodding acknowledgement of the order the test stand tech hit the ignition switch. "CONTACT! STAND CLEAR! OF TEST STAND ONE!"
Without any hesitation the huge Merlin engine sputtered twice as the oil-lubricants worked into the mechanisms, then after a brief bout of blue smoke the engine roared to life. Everything nearby rattled lightly from the intensity of the now loudly roaring engine as brief flashes of fire issued from the exhaust manifolds situated along its length. After letting it run for a few minutes the techs shut it down.
Wayne was still grinning as the last of the engine noise faded away leaving the shop in stunned silence. The strange lady who had appeared at their door a week ago, worked unusually late hours, had limited experience had just single handedly rebuilt eighty percent of a complex engine. It had worked flawlessly on the first try. A new legend had been born before their eyes as she posed for a picture with the engine.
As she walked past the shop boss to her assigned station, tool box held proudly in her hand she smiled confidently as she accepted the ten pound note. Wayne grinned back at her "GET TO WORK ERK!"
000 Night fighters
It was early evening when it happened, she was arms deep into the interior of a bomber's engine bay when the air-raid siren sounded again. Sighing to herself she climbed down from the maintenance gantry under the wing to the makeshift bomb shelter setup behind the shop. She walked calmly as she surveyed the shop for anyone needing help as all around her other mechanics set down their tools to make the same walk. As she reached the shop exit door she heard someone shouting frantically, turning her head she spotted one of the pilots, was at the facility and pointing at the odd looking fighter in the bay.
"Is my fighter ready!? We got inbound from the east! If it's ready we need it in the air quickly!" shouted a young man wearing a khaki uniform suit with leather flight jacket. "The one over in the corner, is the Witch ready to fight!"
Pearl huffed as she looked over at the aircraft, it was a P.82 Defiant; it looked a bit like a large Hurricane fighter but instead of forward guns it had a turret with four heavy guns in the back. In the dim shop light she could see a stylized woman in white lingerie wearing a witch hat riding a machine-gun was emblazoned on the front.
"Yeah, it was just in for some minor electrical work, the boys left it fueled and loaded." Replied Pearl she ran over to fetch a small powered push-back device then quickly set about backing the fighter out of the repair shop. Soon it was out on the flight line as Pearl, with her enhanced speed and strength, finished final preparations for the fighter. By now the alert fighters were almost all in the air and the alert siren switched tones to indicate attack was imminent.
Her task finished she once again made ready to leave for the shelter when she again heard the pilot shouting. "BUGGER! I don't have a gunner!"
Pearl spun on her heel and before she had fully realized the implications of her actions she was up the side of the aircraft and strapping herself into the gunner's seat. Sliding the helmet with radio on she keyed the microphone. "You're lucky I'm a special ERK. Specialist Commando Pearl at your service, I can shoot and these turret controls are familiar to me."
The man was quiet for a long moment before; finally he spoke again as the aircraft shuddered as the engine revved up. "I have a thousand questions and nothing you've said or done makes any sense…. but if you say you can shoot thats good enough for me. I'm Cpt Patryk, who are you?"
Pearl adjusted her straps as she continued her weapons checks, glancing outside the airfield was passing by with increasing speed as the large fighter headed for take-off position. "Pearl, pleasure to meet you Patryk, is that a Polish name by chance?" shouted Pearl into the microphone; her gem-ears allowed her to hear Patryk just fine but she suspected the engine noise was making communication difficult for him.
Patryk didn't reply as arriving at the runway start Patryk pushed the throttles full open and soon they were airborne. Glancing outside Pearl noted the lighting conditions, full moon. This would make things easier for her with her enhanced vision but the enemy bombers benefited too.
~{0}~
Minutes after take off they sighted their first enemy bomber. Pearl spotted it first as they circled their assigned patrol box to await the enemy bombers reportedly inbound. At first she thought it had been her imagination as the shadow passed over the landscape but when it passed over a moonlit pond its silhouette was clearly defined for her sharp eyes.
Keying her microphone she shouted over the roar of the engine so Patryk could hear her. "TALLY-HO!, looks like a twin-engine Heinkel at 4-O clock low skimming the trees." Keying the turret controls she swung the four heavy guns to the left side of the fighter. "Patryk, Think you can get on their right side, high, and a bit ahead of them?"
Patryk rotated the fighter on its side so he could see it for himself, after a moment he too spotted the fast moving enemy aircraft. "Affirmative, bringing us about, you sure you know how those guns work? As else we'll just be scaring him and hoping he doesn't shoot back!"
Pearl engaged her gems latent computation abilities for the coming action. "Just line us up and let's make it quick, plenty of other targets to shoot down tonight."
"Hold onto your seat, here we go!" shouted as the large fighter began an inverted dive towards the first victim of the fight. Pearl felt herself go momentarily weightless followed by being pressed into her seat by the acceleration. "Watch for the target on our left side!"
After a few seconds of the roaring engines she looked out the gunners copula to find herself properly lined up just ahead and above the bomber. Wasting no time she triggered her quad-guns which chattered and spat fire as if strobe-lights flashing in the night. Her aim was true as the tracer-rounds tore through the bombers right wing root; there was a flash of fire, then the wing separated sending the bomber plummeting to its doom.
Pearl didn't get a chance to watch for the fireball of the impact as a pair of rapidly blinking lights was briefly seen in the darkness behind their fighter. Recognizing the danger Pearl again shouted into the intercom as she swung her guns to confront the threat. "FIGHTER ON OUR SIX! BREAK RIGHT!"
Patryk didn't question the command as he shoved the throttle forwards while he yanked the control tick to the right. An instant latter the tink and tack of bullets peppering the fuselage was heard followed by the roar of an engine as the enemy fighter shot past.
Pearl watched it as it went by, her enhanced eyes allowing her to track it as it circled around to regain the tail position. "Patryk, he's coming around again, hold it steady and act wounded"
Patryk did as instructed as he throttled back to nearly idle the engine as he boosted the fuel mix to make the engine smoke a little. Sensing an easy kill the fighter eased up behind them but hung down a little low intending to shoot them from below where Pearl's gun's couldn't reach him. "Bugger! I think he's guessed your plan Pearl, get ready, I'll bring you to him!"
Abruptly the aircraft rolled again, this time to the right as the skilled pilot slammed the rear controls to the limits causing the large Defiant to swing wide as if a car drifting sideways. She could have sworn she saw the enemy fighter pilot's astounded face her guns were suddenly perfectly lined up for the shot. A quick adjustment, four bursts of tracer fire, and the fighter was last seen trailing fire as it smashed into the countryside below.
"Scratch two, two more and I'll make Ace!" shouted Patryk triumphantly. "Pearl, you need to work on your aerial tactics, you call the targets and aim the guns, I'll handle bringing you to the targets."
There was no mistaking the confident cocyness in the pilot's voice as Pearl grinned to herself while re-checking her guns for the next target. "Agreed." As she spotted another bomber, this one was above them as it ghosted in and out of some low clouds; the bright moonlight reflecting off the canopy glass or its shadow against the moonlight clouds making it visible.
"TALLY HO! New contact above in the clouds at 2 O-Clock angles high, looks to be another twin-bomber!" shouted Pearl. Already she could feel the acceleration pressing down on her as the engine roared loudly as the big Defiant clawed for altitude.
Patryk, as promised, already had a plan for the new threat. "Swing the guns up to point forwards, wait and let me know when he's behind us again."
Pearl did as instructed but noted to her dismay that the guns could only shoot over the top of the fighter, not fully forwards. "Patryk, this isn't going to work, just bring us ahead and below so I can shoot off his wing from the side."
Her only response was a chuckle as the pilot once again demonstrated his mastery over the flying machine as he tilted the machine slightly to the right side before initiating a climb. The result was Pearl had a long extended shot at the bomber as the Defiant's spiraling climb brought it up and over the top. As they pulled away the aircraft split in half as if a buzz-saw had cut it in-half, as she watched a few bodies - the crew - tumbled out of the two halfs. Looking away Pearl shuttered as she tried to put the image of the crew helplessly falling out of her mind.
Leveling out they resumed their search for more targets as they circled within their assigned patrol area in the sky. Occasionally bright flashes of other aircraft engaged in their own desperate battles were scene in the distance. In the dim light it was impossible to tell if it was a friend or foe whose funeral pyre was burning brightly in the dark night to suddenly end against the cold hard earth below. "It's almost beautiful in its own way, a swirling battle of angels and demons fighting courageously for their causes against the inky blackness of an ocean sky "
The crackle of the intercom microphone snapped her out of her imagination and back into the present as Patryk spoke into the microphone. "I think thats it for tonight, we're heading back to base. Watch for any stragglers trying to sneak away. Good shooting Pearl."
"Thanks, good flying Patryk!" replied Pearl as she leaned forwards to rest her weary body on the guns. The weapons radiated an almost pleasant warmth against her arms as the metal cooled down after all the action and shooting earlier. As she watched the countryside passing below her sharp-eyes spotted it, an enemy bomber flying low, just above the trees. As she tracked its progress she noted that it was moving much slower than the others, one of its engines along sizable chunk of one of its wings was missing; holes were visible in the fuselage.
She almost keyed her microphone to alert Patryk but hesitated, sighing to herself she resumed her watch of the sky for aircraft that posed an actual threat.
"Good idea to let him go, they're no threat anymore." Patryk's voice suddenly sounded from her headset startling her as she sat sat up straight in her seat. "Patryk, you saw them too?" she replied carefully as if she was breaking some rule or about to get in trouble.
"I like to think that up here, at least among us pilots, there can still be a modicum of chivalry and respect among warriors. Who knows, perhaps someday, if I'm in a similar spot, an enemy might show me the same mercy" confirmed Patryk, his voice low and solemn.
The rest of the flight back to the airfield passed in silence. On landing Patryk simply shook Pearl's hand before taking his leave saying he needed to attend to the paperwork and she needed to repair the aircraft. At first Pearl was a bit offended by the departure after their shared experience of aerial combat, she had wanted to talk a bit more. But when looking at the Defiant now sitting on the runway she saw that she did indeed have a long night ahead of her. Sighing to herself she waved down a tow-cart to begin the process of hauling the bullet damaged aircraft back to the same repair shop where the evening adventure had begun for more repairs.
000 Ms Shilling
It was late afternoon with a thick deck of low clouds providing a welcome relief from the regular enemy bombing attacks and alert fighter scrambles. A contingent of heavy bombers had arrived at the base where they would be based for the next few weeks as they conducted retaliatory raids against the German war industry. Up on one of the engine nacelles Pearl and Marty were adjusting the valve timings after the pilot of the machine had complained of one of the engines turning slightly out of sync with the others.
She was just wrapping up the last of the cylinders when she heard Wayne's voice calling out for her. "PEARL! Get down from there, there is someone here I think you'd like to meet!" Looking over the edge of the engine she was surprised to see a woman dressed in an Erks uniform inspecting one of the engines Pearl had been working on earlier. She was average height with a strong build, brunet hair was lightly styled but neck length, but her most distinguishing trait was the bright smile on her face as she examined the engine.
In her excitement to greet the new arrival she lept off the engine to land effortlessly on the shop floor. Wayne gave her an odd look at the display of agility but otherwise didn't say anything as he walked with her over to the other woman for introductions.
"Ms Shilling, may I have your attention for a moment?" called Wayne to be heard over the noise of the repair-shop machinery. On hearing the shop-master's voice the woman turned from her engine inspection to greet them, her eyes widening as she spotted Pearl standing awkwardly next to Wayne. Pearl waved awkwardly at Ms. Shilling unsure of how to proceed next.
Wayne didn't miss a beat as he continued the introductions as he ushered them to the back shops rear door leading out to a small garden the staff used for breaks. "Ms. Shilling, I'd like to introduce you to Pearl, she's with the Commando regiments but has been lending her mechanics talent to us Erks while she waits for her next mission. I figured you two would have much to talk about, but please don't be too long as the next group of bombers will be in for repair soon and we need all the help we can get"
Taking a seat at the park bench under the shade of an apple tree the two sat in silence for a moment until Ms Shilling decided to speak first.
"Pearl is it? Its nice to meet you, I wasn't aware of another female aircraft mechanic or engineer in the RAF service!" her voice high with excitement at the discovery as she continued. "Wayne told me about your rebuild of the engine in record time, how ever did you accomplish such a thing?"
Pearl blushed a bit at the compliment as the happy feeling of the memory floated up in her memories. "Yes, I honestly wasn't sure it would work but I've some prior experience with similar engines working on cars, all human-technology is fairly primitive so once its understood its easy." She smiled to herself for a moment before her face froze as she realized her error; "Oh stars! I said HUMAN engines, did she notice, will she ask about it? Quick, think fast?"
If Ms Shilling noticed the error she didn't show it as she continued the conversation, "I'm not sure how you can make that comparison as the Merlin engine is one of the most advanced out there. But I digress, I actually wanted to get your opinion on the engine and its mechanisms."
Pearl was suddenly very skeptical at the unexpected inquiry as her face took on a confused look, her voice again unsure as it was a topic she was still very new to. "Well, as far as engines go its fairly advanced as you say, the configuration is optimal for power and acceleration but I worry about the use of a carburetor on an aircraft engine. It seems an odd fuel system choice."
Ms Shilling leaned back as she took an appraising look at Pearl, clearly impressed by something the ancient Gem had said in her answer. After a moment to think Shilling confirmed two things to Pearl in the answer. "Wow, thats what I was thinking as well actually, it does indeed mess up the fuel-feed under negative-G dives during dog-fights. The question however is how to solve it, I was hoping that your understanding of our 'human technology' would give you some insights to share with the RAF engineers."
Pearl was blushing with nervousness as she struggled to regain her senses to give a proper answer. "Um, the 'human tech' was just a joke, I'm a big fan of science fiction books, I'm glad you got the reference. But yes, I had a similar thought and I've heard the air crews complaining about it as they brought the aircraft in for repairs; a few claim to have nearly crashed."
"Yes, I've heard something similar, I agree that that carburetor is probably the cause but I've yet to figure out how to fix it. Oh, and please, do call me Tilly, no one I call friend ever uses my last-name to call me." replied Tilly cheerfully. Reaching into her pocket she withdrew a small pocket-notebook as she began taking notes while the two chatted on about engines and aircraft flight dynamics.
It was late afternoon when the conversation was finally ended when Wayne showed up to advise the two that it was shift-change and that they had been out there talking all afternoon.
"Oh my goodness" gasped Pearl as she stood up to look at the sun getting lower on the horizon. "We'd been having such a fascinating conversation that I'd completely lost track of time. Wayne, why didn't you send someone to come fetch me! There must be so much work left to-do in the shop!."
Wayne grinned as he waved off her worries. "Don't worry about it, we got it covered, besides, you talking to Ms. Shilling there is probably a bigger boon to the engineering departments anyway. Also, you're forgetting that I don't technically command you."
"Well, I'm afraid I must be going, duty calls and I've got to catch my ride home or I'll miss my appointments at work tomorrow" said Ms. Shilling sadly as she put her notebook away. Dusting off her pants as she stood up she gave Pearl a quick hug before heading towards the repair shop door. "I hope we can speak again soon Pearl, it was fun!"
Pearl watched her go, a look of disappointment on her face at the brief contact with another like minded engineer. "An attractive one at that too." Pearl startled at the sudden unbidden thought of the other woman followed by another long look at the now empty bench they'd occupied.
"You okay there Pearl?" asked Wayne concernedly from the side. "Its not often you get to make acquaintance with someone like that, her husband is a lucky man to have her thats for sure."
Pearl looked curiously at Wayne who was giving her a bit of a knowing look. "Don't worry about it little lady, I can pick up on these things sometimes; don't matter to me just so you know."
Shaking her head at the revelation a contented smile returned to her face as she headed back towards the shop for another shift fixing engines.
000 Looking for Mischief
Pearl flopped onto her rooms small cot exhausted from a long double-shift working in the repair depot; her grease covered overalls hanging from the door hook. The otherwise mundane work made all the more harrowing by not one but two air-raids as the Luftwaffe had evidently decided to remind the RAF-crews that their facility wasn't safe. The bombs had thankfully missed the repair-depots and barracks but the runway had been cratered again requiring hurried patching. Across the base a few fires still burned from one of the fuel-dumps that had taken several direct hits; the heat from the fires could be felt from across half the field but at least the blaze was contained.
After a moment just resting her aching joints she picked up her rifle from its place on her desk to begin the cleaning ritual once more. Quietly she worked as she meditated to recharge the depleted energy reserves in her Gem; peace by intricate peace was removed, cleaned, then re-assembled in perfect order. As she worked her mind drifted through the events of last couple weeks from the wild flight with Patryk to the, interesting, conversation with Ms Shilling.
It was nearly one in the morning when there was an urgent knock at her room-door; opening it she found the dorm attendant, a Ms Sally, standing outside.
"Excuse me Ms Pearl, but there are two men down in the foyer asking to see you, a Mr calling himself Patryk and Mr Marty. Should I send them away? Inquired Sally with a perfectly polite voice before switching to a much more subdued whisper as she grinned conspiratorially. "Remember, if you're planning funny business please be reminded that the 'constable' doesn't like fraternization between the sexes out of wedlock so keep it out of sight. Okay?"
Pearl blushed deep blue at the insinuation as she glanced down at herself, dressed only in her underwear. "Thats fine, please let them know I'll be right down after I make myself proper" squeaked Pearl through her embarrassment. Ms Sally curtsied before turning and making her way back down the hallway to deliver the message, humming some cheeky tune as she walked.
Closing the door Pearl fetched her Commando uniform as she quickly dressed, then headed out. Reaching the lobby she found Marty and Patryk dressed up in clean uniforms, broad mischievous smiles on their faces as they watched her approach.
"Pearl, glad you could join us! Please come with us, we've a surprise waiting for you over at the O-club." said Patryk, his thick Polish accent conveying excitement of unknown origin.
"Why would I want to go to that rowdy place? I've heard the music and songs you pilots sing there!" replied Pearl haughtily as she suppressed a smile as she feigned disinterest.
"Because a certain someone is back on base and, like a fool, wants to make a show of it rather than just show up at your door. I think he thinks he's being romantic or funny or both maybe." replied Marty teasingly. "Now will you come with us or not?"
Pearl immediately knew who they were talking about as she motioned for them to lead the way.
Abruptly Patryk stopped walking as he turned to give her an appraising once-over before turning to continue leading the small procession out the dorms more secluded side-entrance. "I must say Pearl, that uniform looks smashing, you wear it well, I can see why he likes you!"
In answer Pearl gave him a light punch in the shoulder as she issued an annoyed huff.
000 O-Bar
It was late evening and the low clouds from earlier had developed into a hazy fog that blanketed the airfield and most of the surrounding countryside. The O-Club was located not far from officers country at the airfield and served as a recreation and off-duty pub for the bases staff. Out near the alert-hanger some of the serviceable fighters were preparing for take off for evening patrol as due diligence demanded at least a token patrol, even in bad weather. The trio arrived at the bar they noted a number of pilots, officers, and other base personnel outside smoking or telling jokes. A few watched them but no one paid them any mind as they went in.
Once inside Patryk and Marty lead Pearl to towards the bar area where a very familiar looking man was seated nursing a pint-glass of some frothy drink. His body language conveyed nervousness as he watched the clock, the bar, the crowd, then he noticed her. All nervousness vanished as he lept off the stool as he strode forwards to meet her, a broad smile on his face.
"Hey Love! Glad to see you….omf" he was stopped mid sentence as Pearl nearly tackled him as she rushed over to wrap him in a big hug. "Oy! Nice to see you too Love." said James happily as he returned the hug. Planting a quick kiss on her Gem he stepped back to admire the her as he spoke. "Looks like you kept busy while I was away, make any new friends? I've already meet Marty and I knew Patryk from our time at Skierniewice"
Pearl released James from the enveloping hug as the group made their way towards one of the small tables he'd reserved for them in the corner of the bar. Seating themselves they ordered some more drinks as James struck up conversation with the others. "Too bad there isn't any alcohol allowed on base, what I wouldn't give for a proper pint of the good stuff."
Marty frowned as he picked up his pint of soda-pop to take a long gulp of the sugary drink. "Sadly you are correct, base commander wants everyone sober in case of surprise attack.." his mood brightened as he pointed at the drink menu next to the door. "But we do have plenty of soda-pop and Wayne sent over some apple-cider we made from the trees behind the shop."
Pearl grinned at the presented drinks as she took a sip, it was surprisingly good. "So James, how did things go with your family visit? Sorry I couldn't attend it with you but, well, I'm just, um…"
James smiled as he placed a hand over hers giving it a light reassuring squeeze. "The trip to visit my parents went about as well as could be expected. After telling my father about our adventures he started pressing me about changing duty to something less dangerous or home guard."
Pearl chuckled at the thought as she rested against his shoulder "Odd, I would have figured it would be your mother asking you to take the safe path. You're not considering the idea are you?"
"Nope, not even a little. Remember what I told you back in Poland when all this started? Someone has to stand up to evil and if not me then some other poor sod has to do it." replied James confidently as he wrapped an arm comfortingly over her shoulders.
"Did they ask about me?" whispered Pearl quietly. "I'm sorry I didn't accompany you to visit your family, its just, well, a step more than I'm ready to take and being a what I am I have special…"
James quieted her with a soft kiss on her cheek and gentle squeeze his voice low as he spoke matching her own. "Don't worry P, I admit to being a bit disappointed but I don't want to rush things. The photo helped allot but it would be wonderful if you could stop by before we deploy again as we might not get another chance. The Appleby family farm isn't that far from the base."
Sipping her drink while the boys started up a lively conversation of their exploits in war Pearl sat quietly as she surveyed the surroundings she found herself in.
The club itself wasn't very large but it was big enough for its purpose. One wall was taken up by a small stage where a band of local pilots was playing some light swing. The small dance-floor was nearly full with swirling people dancing to their own rhythms sometimes along or with an impromptu partner. The main focus was of course the bar which took up the entirety of the lengthwise wall leaving the rest of the bar for tables. Hanging from every rafter and on every wall were memorabilia, aircraft parts, guns, medals, photos and all manor of sometimes questionable knick-knacks.
"I miss home, DeeDee would have loved to see this place. Probably get allot of decorating inspiration too" thought Pearl to herself. A sudden pang of homesickness raddled her but she did her best to keep it hidden from the others in a bid to not spoil the happy atmosphere of the club.
"So, Pearl, how is it a woman ends up in the Commandos? You've been working with us for a couple weeks now but I don't think anyone ever thought to ask with all the madness about." inquired Marty as he idly swirled his spoon in the soda; a half-melted dob of ice-cream frothing in it. "I wonder if Rose would be stopping by again, its been awhile since I'd last seen her"
Pearl blushed a bit at the sudden attention as all eyes turned to her clearly eager for to hear the story; all except James (who already knew). "Okay, well it started out when I arrived in London on the RMS Transylvania out of New York on its side-trip to London…"
James grinned as the story went on, her ability to make up cover-stories on the fly had greatly improved since they'd first met.
~{0}~
Much later in the evening, long after her story had ended, the group at the table was wrapping up their gathering. James was just picking up his coat when Patryk motioned for everyone to sit back down, with a huge grin and merriment in his eyes he motioned for Pearl to step over to him. When she was near enough to hear him over the music he told her his plan.
"Pearl my friend, do you like to dance?" he asked, his accent thickening as he grew more excited.
"Yes, most any dance is fine." she replied with some trepidation as he was clearly planning something.
"Good, good, do you like bad jokes and salty songs?" asked Patryk practically bouncing now.
Something in James's head must have made a connection as he stood up to stand next to Pearl, his arm resting on her shoulders both to reassure her and keep her from escaping. "Pearl Love, I think he means to make us act out the dance to an embarrassing song."
"Correct! Are you up for it!?" said Patryk but now his voice was a bit low with worry that they would refuse the invitation. "I mean, the dance works best with a lady or couple and seeing as the lady is arguably the loveliest flower on the base you and your companion are perfect!"
Pearl blushed bright blue at the compliment as she stuttered out her answer. "Well, um, it sounds fun but I don't know if James would …." her voice trailed off as her eyes started flickering around the room as she noted that some of the other men were furtively glancing in her direction. Suddenly she was acutely aware that she was one of only a few women on base and even fewer who were out this late at the pub.
"I'm game for it Love, remember the pub dance back at Achnacarry? We may not get another chance and with the war on I'd rather embarrass myself and have a good story than regret it later." said James quietly as he lightly hugged her a little closer.
Pearl sighed to herself as she resigned herself to her embarrassing fate, how could she say no?
A few minutes later they were ready with the leader of the pilot band positioned behind the microphone, a large acoustic guitar in his hands at the ready. Pearl and James were in the middle of the dance floor facing each other at the ready having been briefed on what to-do.
"Okay everyone, grab your drinks and sing along!" shouted the barkeep from the counter. "We have two special guests with us tonight to act out the main parts but feel free to join in!"
A long drawn out strum of the guitar followed by a few test notes signaled the start as the band lead began to sing the opening verses.
My mother was an escort,
My father was a ponce,
He always told the gals to do it faster.
Pearl blushed deep blue as she let out a small gasp of embarrassment "I should have asked more questions before saying 'yes' to this, oh hell no backing out now!" With that she did a very awkward attempt at a sexy walk waving a prop feather boa while James made a show of twirling a prop-cain and twirling a top-hat. The crowd cheered as the pair began to get into the act as the song continued.
Now it would be my luck
That the two of them would shag,
She blushed deeper blue thanking the stars that James opted to kiss her outstretched hand than anything more embarrassing. At this she relaxed as it was clear he wouldn't embarrass her too much.
Now I'm a fighter pilot and a bastard!
"EVERYONE TOGETHER! CHORUS! Shouted the lead singer as the bar erupted in song.
Singin' aye, aye, aye, we'll fight until we die,
And our enemies are gone forever more!
Raining fire from above,
For the freedom that we love,
We are the Hounds of Heaven,
The mighty dogs of war!
This time Pearl had the boa again as she stood on the stage with the band doing a simple ballet while James sat in a borrowed chair. Her apprehension finally passing as she acted out the scene for the bar.
The squadron went to blackpool to do some naughty fun,
I've regretted that whole trip most my life,
It was there I met a dancer,
Who lost a satin slipper,
And now I call that silly gal my wife!
Marty snickered as he glanced at the simple wedding band on his ring finger as he watched the two performers switch to new costumes during the chorus.
Singin' aye, aye, aye, we'll fight until we die,
And our enemies are gone forever more!
Raining fire from above,
For the freedom that we love,
We are the Hounds of Heaven
The mighty dogs of war!
Pearl and James left the stage to once again switch props for something made from boxes. The crowd of soldiers was evidently having a fantastic time with the rowdy show as they sang along. Loudly.
The most beautiful gal,
That I did ever see,
I dreamt one day I would get inside her,
I finally got my way,
I ride her every day,
She's the only one for me
And she's a Spitfire!
This last one the two performers appeared back on stage, this time Pearl with her arms stretched out imitating wings, trying to make airplane sounds, while James walked close behind her waving his arms in celebration.
Singin' aye, aye, aye, we'll fight until we die,
And our enemies are gone forever more!
Raining fire from above,
For the freedom that we love,
We are the Hounds of Heaven,
The mighty dogs of war!
At the conclusion of the song the pub erupted into a loud cheer as Pearl and James bowed and waved to the crowd. Someone threw cloth napkins around as if they were tossing roses of appreciation. After few minutes the bar-keep flashed the lights a bit to signal the bar was closing and for the last round of drinks to be served. Taking their leave the two headed out.
~{0}~
The two walked arm in arm through the darkened base grounds as they made their way back towards the barracks buildings. Both still feeling euphoric as they chatted excitedly about the recent bar performance and their long awaited reunion. Reaching the divide in the path that separate the women's dorm from the men's barracks the two stopped to embrace one last time.
Pearl hummed happily to herself as she pulled James close as she buried her cheek into his as he wrapped one arm around her waist while the other gently stroked her hair. Since becoming much more, intimate, with humans after starting the relationship with James, she still found it fascinating listening to the workings of the human body. The beating heart, the breath in the lungs, the unique scent of her "….. Boyfriend? Lover? Lets stay with boyfriend for now, its easier." she thought quietly.
At long last the two pulled apart to just gaze happily at the other, their hands still intertwined as if each was ready to pull the other closer. Jame's warm gaze making renewed the feeling of giddiness she'd been feeling since the pub dance.
"Hey, um Love" began James cautiously as she pulled her close again to kiss her passionately on the lips. The touch set something off in her as she pressed herself into him returning the kiss with an urgency she hadn't felt in some decades. Pulling up for air he leaned back as he gazed at Pearl with eyes full of warmth and romantic promise. "Would you like to take this to a quiet place I know? Somewhere where we don't have to worry about nosy dorm-managers?
Smiling brightly Pearl pulled him down for another passionate kiss as he wrapped his arms around her to hold her closer. A sense of urning growing within as he held his love.
Abruptly Pearl broke off the embrace as she stepped back quickly, clearly a bit flustered and blushing a very deep blue as she absentmindedly adjusted her uniform jacket. "Sorry James, you're sweet to offer but I'm not quite ready for that yet. Rain-check though? I'd like to try it, just not right now my love."
The moment fizzled like a thermite fire doused with freezing cold liquid helium.
James awkwardly scratched the back of his neck as he nervously shuffled his feet trying to think of a proper response. At last he raised his eyes to hers, the warmth of his eyes and a happy smile on his face "Its okay Love, I admit to being a bit, um, disappointed, but I can live with it. I pledged that we would go at your pace and not to push you for more. I'm a man of my word and intend to keep it."
Pearl smiled brightly as she stepped forward plant a chaste kiss on his lips. "Thank you James, I really appreciate that, I do want to try … that… sometime, but maybe when things are more relaxed."
With one more quick hug the two parted ways to head to their respective dorms. Both a bit disappointed; one for yielding to uncertainty not letting them seize the moment, the other worried about going to fast.
000 RAF Mildenhall - Squadron Briefing Rooms
It was early evening that the gathering began in one of the bases squadron briefing rooms that had been hastily commandeered for the coming briefings. The summer months were making a last gasp of heat causing the room to grow uncomfortably warm as people gathered near the open windows or under ceiling fans. The smell of body odor, gun oil, old paper, and history filling the air.
All around members of other commando squads were filing into the briefing room for some kind of presentation that was marked as 'secret' but given everyone present was in the Commandos the topic was easy to guess. Gradually the other squad members had begun to arrive at the air-base; each seemingly renewed from their break from the fighting and each with a story to tell.
Darren brought a package of chocolates to sample from one of his father's business ventures with the Dutch before the invasion making the deserts an especially special treat. There was also news that some of his father's factories had been bombed and so help had been needed to get the claims paperwork sorted out in its own form of paper-warfare. George went to check on his family's fishing boat as evidently his uncle had used it in the evacuation from Dunkirk; his boat needing some bullet holes patched. Frank had spent his time in London with his camera getting action and 'life under siege' photos that he was then selling to the local newspapers for a small profit that was then spent on more photography gear.
A sharp rap at the lectern signaled for everyone the meeting was about to begin, soon the ruffling of cloth and the squeak of chairs moving on the rough floor was heard as everyone got ready.
"ATTENTION!" shouted a Major from the doorway; everyone stood back up to stand at attention.
With thumping boots a man in his mid forties, old by military standards, strode confidently into the room. A large Scottish broad-sword hung from his hip matched by a large English long-bow with arrow quiver across his back as if an odd backpack. His hair was thinning, his face was broad and weathered from a life adventuring in the back-country and sun. Taking his place at the lectern he began his speech.
"Greeting Commandos! At ease please." he allowed a brief pause while the room quieted back down.
Once everyone was ready the speech continued. "I am Lieutenant-Colonel Jack Churchill, I intend to lead you into harm's way to bring violent pain and suffering to our common enemies."
Recognition flashed across Pearl's face as she listened intently to the speech and the unfolding descriptions of the future missions that were in the final planning stages. At one point Jack - Mad Jack - looked right at her during a pause, a quick nod and smile, then the briefing resumed.
The days of waiting at the airfield for orders were over, it was time to go back to war.
000 End Chapter 20 Author's Notes
Hello my dear readers!
Whats the best way to motivate a fan fic writer to write? leave a review 8-) ! Please let me know how I'm doing - especially if you have requests for specific missions or events as the story outline is still open for ideas an changes. If I like what you suggest I'll give you a call out in the story.
It my most fervent hope that I can continue to write a story that you continue to enjoy reading.
Onto the history
RAF Mildenhall
This was primarily facility housing and maintaining the heavy bombers the RAF used to interdict shipping and war industry in Germany. We're pretending that it was also an alert-fighter base and contained a few extra buildings for the story to take place in. It was attacked a few times during the early Luftwaffe air-raids
Jack Churchill
Last seen in Chapter 4 - A British Army officer who fought throughout the Second World War armed with a longbow, bagpipes, and a basket-hilted Scottish broadsword. Nicknamed "Fighting Jack Churchill" and "Mad Jack", he was known for the motto: "Any officer who goes into action without his sword is improperly dressed."
Beatrice 'Tilly' Shilling
A British aeronautical engineer and motor racer. During the Second World War, she invented "Miss Shilling's orifice", a small metal disc similar to a metal washer that restricted fuel flow to the carburetor helping prevent engine stall in the Rolls-Royce Merlin engines of the Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire fighters. Truly a woman ahead of her time.
Erks
An aircraftsman of the lowest rank in the Royal Air Force. While having a rude meaning it was often used jokingly by aircrews (in a good way) who worked closely with the mechanics.
P.82 Defiant
Look up a picture of one online. They are odd looking aircraft with a large rear facing turret with four machine-guns behind the cockpit. It has zero forward firing guns for protection as the ideas was to the turret offered the ability to shoot at any pursuing aircraft or to catch aircraft that an aircraft with only fixed-forward guns wouldn't be able to engage or fight. It enjoyed early success in the war but the German's quickly learned how to fight it (from the front or below to the rear) leading to high losses. It enjoyed a successful renaissance as a night-fighter as the gunner could bring the guns to bear on bombers for ambushes or keep the enemy under fire during the low visibility conditions of night fighting.
Dos Gringos - The Hound War Song
This is the song that as acted out at the O-club by Pearl and James. Its a very… rowdy… song with lots of colorful language, swearing, and very not-safe-for-work lyrics. But it fits perfectly with the romanticized view of fighter-pilot culture with pilots facing danger daily then enjoying a good party at night. I've modified it a bit to use more British slang (its a British pub after all) and to be a bit less crude.