Most important, to me, is my wife Juanita’s birthday. She’s 71 today and precious. In just over a month, we will celebrate our 13th anniversary. 13 years, three countries, and five homes… and a sixth looking necessary for various reasons, although selling our house might stymie our intent.
Juanita shares her special day with St David, the Patron Saint of Wales. When we moved to Harlech in Snowdonia, our first morning in our new home was March 1st, 2014.
That post made me look for other March 1st IWSG posts.
Although, this next one appeared on March 5th, 2014, it seems the most relevant, as we are/might be on the move again. Hopefully, we won’t be offline as long, especially since in 2014 my brother pulled political strings to get our IP provider to provide our connection faster.
Rather than link every March IWSG post, I searched for one more appropriate piece. The one below is not March, but my second ever IWSG post – my first being a month earlier. The chicken-list is interesting as it shows how my life has changed. Neither of my current writing projects were in existence, and Wyrm Bait is now on ice. Gaming has become a lifeline, although I keep it in check.
Every month, IWSG announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
March 1 question – Have you ever read a line in novel or a clever plot twist that caused you to have author envy?
This month I’m passing, not because of no lines or twists existing, but because there are too many. I manage to find at least one in most novels I read or listen to. Author envy occurs too often.
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
I intend my 2023 WEP-IWSG Challenge entries to be more of my Ukraine stories, as I resolve to continue them until there is a just conclusion to the horrendous war.
For those new to this ongoing creation, please note, this present day tale began with my World War II story Feathered Fire, which introduced the Chayka family from Ukraine and appeared in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost.
Therefore, in today’s Challenge entry I’m able to include a key mid-month romantic event. However, with Russia’s winter offensive threatening to erupt beyond probing attacks, I’m unsure what fate has waiting for my Witches. Unless I ignore reality, NATO holds the cards on when they can be deployed.
I will be following events closely, watching the Ukrainian skies for NATO jets, and listening for the roar of leopards.
Blurb: Night Witches prepare for an imminent offensive.
Part 8
Winds of Change
2023
Sunday, February 12th – Airfield “Kalyniv” near the Polish border.
The Witches’ two squadron commanders were waiting inside with a lanky air force colonel, whom Kalyna introduced as Maksym Bondarenko from Air Command West, Lviv.
“I wanted to be here when our six brave warriors returned from overseas. Curiously, I see ten.”
The new flight leader stepped forward and saluted. “I’m Kapitan Maryna Sobol. We’re Sable Wing from Cold Lake, Canada… the squadron’s newest recruits, sir.”
“More Canadian-Ukrainians. Your aid will be timely with invasion imminent. The 114th Tactical Aviation Brigade formally recognizes this squadron. A unique, all-women unit, though following in the wingtips of a famous regiment. Do you want to resurrect their designation?
Kalyna looked at Vasy, who answered. “Those were Soviet so not our legacy. Just ‘Night Witches’ and the rebirth in 22.”
“Appropriate. However, we must decide how best to covertly introduce 20 pilots flying NATO jets.”
The Witches nodded.
“Use our legacy,” said Kalyna. “–of two Ukrainian sisters who reached Canada in 1945 with Swedish help. Hence, 12 Canadian Hornets and eight Swedish Gripens.”
Commander EvdokiyaBershanskaya gives a briefing to her “Witches”.(Archives Vlad Monster, http://www.ava.org.ru)
“Perhaps,” said Maksym, “your contacts can help revive the plans to begin licensed Gripen production in Lviv.”
Anzhela approached Vasy. “I delivered your message in Sweden. Is that relevant?”
“Yes. Our Saab request ranges from spares to, unofficially, the license.”
Maksym smiled. “Officially, please continue. We need Gripens. Those of you not trained by the RCAF will find flying NATO jets a challenge… one I’m sure you’ll master. Your majors are wise acquiring planes from personal sources where backup is unlikely to fail.”
“When Saab agrees to local production that will change so much,” said Vasy.
“Including removing reliance on the Hornet’s manufacturer, McDonnell Douglas,” added Kalyna. “The RCAF is due to phase that fighter out… so Chayka may acquire more decommissioned stock.”
A murmur sighed among the pilots.
Then Anzhela voiced the whisper.
“How soon before Command requires our new skills? There must have been a goal sending some of us to Canada.”
“True,” said Maksym. “Beyond honing the knowledge to teach others.”
“The next stage is training those who remained,” continued Vasy. “Then we’ll form four Hornet and two Gripen flights will be formed – assignments according to mastery in each jet.”
“You Witches offer unique specialist support,” said Maksym. “However, whether our imminent combined arms offensive includes your squadron depends on other NATO decisions… like openly offering jets.”
*
Tuesday, February 14th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Lviv.
Mariyka and Sergei were greeted by her mother once they descended into the family’s cellar restaurant.
“How was your romantic visit?” asked Danuta, guiding them to a candlelit table for eight.
Italian patio, Kornyakta Palace, Lviv
Sergei bowed. “I never knew such beauty existed in Lviv… and the Renaissance patio was majestic. A jewel to gaze upon while I held this gorgeous one—”
”—He’s unstoppable… even with a shadow—”
“—who was distracted by your chief mechanic,” said prison guard Odarka.
“All part of the escape plan,” said Dariya, “–so, the lovers can abscond.”
Her mother stroked Mariyka’s cheek. “Will I discover where my daughter has been hiding for five weeks? Military secret?”
Mariyka smiled at Sergei. “He may be Russian, but he’s not a spy. Anyway, only Witches are meant to know.”
As Anzhela joined them, Larisa embraced her cousin Sergei.
When Maryna and Bohdana came over, the octet for their candlelit St Valentine’s meal was complete.
“We’re honored to welcome so many sisters in uniform.”
“Our pleasure to be here in this cozy haven of calm,” said Maryna. “May this terrible war pass you by… and end soon.”
As they ordered from the tempting local selection, a trio of uniformed airmen left their dates to accost the Witches.
“Some of you don’t sound Ukrainian. Please satisfy our curiosity, since I see you’re wearing 114th Tactical Aviation Brigade patches like.us “
Maryna looked to her sisters before saying, “Kapitan Maryna Sobol of the 2022 Night Witches. Apologies for my dialect, but I was born in Canada.”
“So, the rumor is true. We get stuck with MiG-29s,” said the envious flyers. “While you demonic dykes get the American jets us real pilots need.”
One of his mates added, “And they sit here colluding with Orcs – the enemy.”
“Divulging all our military secrets… like Leopard tanks?”
“But you just have,” said Sergei. “Fortunately, your drunk voices didn’t echo for all the other disturbed diners to hear. Luckily all the Russians here want to become Ukrainians,
Danuta approached. ‘Don’t let this war divide us. One day my daughter here may need your wings. Return to your ladies and enjoy your meal with a discount for bravery.”
As the pilots slunk away, she served everyone’s meal.
“I suspect Mariyka and some of you ladies were in Canada ensuring the winds of change were on our side. But I’ll guess no more.”
“Maybe after the war, mama. Now, we’ll enjoy great food and love.”
Mariyka squeezed Sergei’s hand, then everyone toasted St Valentine.
Delicious dishes brought all words to whispers, and the four couples closer.
Lost in their partner’s eyes’ they were unaware of the empty restaurant, until Danuta came over.
“I’d love you all to stay, but there’s the curfew.”
“Back to grim reality,” said Mariyka, knowing death stalked them all. “It’s been wonderful, mama… please don’t refuse our money.”
“Bravery discount then.”
As they walked to the door, Anzhela asked, “Why Zvenigora Restaurant? I should know.”
Danuta grinned. “The film posters hold a clue, but no guessing. Maybe another time.”
“If it was Tara, I’d say it was from that poster,” said Maryna, shivering. “Too apt for now though.”
Outside in the chill night, Bohdana clutched Maryna. “The air or ‘Gone with the Wind’?”
“The prejudice of those other pilots, and the poster. You had your civil war in the Donbas—”
“Still part of this twisted conflict,” said Anzhela. “Too many secrets even hidden from us. Those other pilots were guessing, but even we must. I trust Chayka’s intentions, and place Ukraine’s freedom first.”
“We must,” said Mariyka. “But I wonder who profits from this war… and from the rebuilding?
**
FCA 1029 words
Slava Ukrayini
Apologies if I’m slow to respond to comments or struggle to visit all your posts.
Plus, ensure you visit all the other writers in this challenge via:
Plus. February’s WEP-IWSG’s Challenge entry will happen.
Slava Ukrayini
**
Every month, IWSG announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
February 1 question – If you are an Indie author, do you make your own covers or purchase them? If you publish trad, how much input do you have about what goes on your cover?
I’ve only has one publication requiring a cover, as shorts have a collection cover.
Spiral of Hooves was released as an e-book on Monday, December 9th, 2013, by Spectacle Publishing. The cover was designed in-house. Although, I made some initial suggestions, the final product was not as expected. I had envisaged bloody hoofprints in snow, not hoofprints at night in sand or snow. Some say it works.
Cover credit: Danielle Sands
When I got the rights back, I corrected the text in a few places. I found Jonathan Temples, a cover designer in Northern Ireland, who did designs for one of my favourite thriller writers. He worked closely with me and a photographer friend. Jonathan produced a front & back cover I’m extremely pleased with… as well as matching bookmarks. So, I published this second edition with CreateSpace on Monday, August 7th, 2017, in paperback and on Kindle.
Whenever, if ever. Fevered Fuse, my police procedural set in Snowdonia, gets published I want to work with Jonathan Temples again. Of course, that depends on the publisher. At least, I can recommend him, and submit the initial drawing he did for the graphic novel concept.
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
My 2022 WEP-IWSG Challenges entries, bar February’s, were my ongoing Ukraine stories, so I resolve to continue them until there is a just conclusion to the horrendous war.
For those new to this ongoing creation, please note, this present day tale began with my World War II story Feathered Fire, which introduced the Chayka family from Ukraine and appeared in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost.
I’ve been working on my February Challenge entry and made some crucial corrections.
First, a plot event I foreshadowed in Part 6 had to occur in late Jan/early Feb before the key romantic event of the month. Hence, I’m posting that event here as Part 7 with both Ukraine and Russia probably preparing winter offensives.
Second, I noted some errors in my air force terminology. Specifically, when calling a group of three or four jets, a wing. I sensed I was wrong. I’ve now done my research. Apologies to all who knew a wing consisted of a number of squadrons, which are sub-divided into flights of around four jets.
I will be more accurate in future. Here’s a clearer explanation:
Blurb: Night Witches resolve to make Winter their friend.
Part 7
Winter Resolution
2023
Friday, February 10th – CFB Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
The six elite Witches walked into the de-brief, stamping snow off their flying boots.
“Not quite what was intended, trainees,” said the Royal Canadian Air Force instructor waiting for them. “But effective although unconventional… as you have proved every day.”
“Is that a pass then, sir?” asked Anzhela Havrylyuk on behalf of her sisters designated as Silver Flight.
Even if they’d played by their own rules and with Night Witch style, they must have completed their five-week low-level flying and extreme weather training to a reasonable level of proficiency. Or had their approach to the last challenge failed to impress their RCAF trainers?
Hopefully their chief mechanics had succeeded at their tests.
“We were tempted to fail you all,” said the senior instructor, nodding at his colleagues. “But we won’t as we were impressed at your ability to adapt and improvise. It was a chance for us to glimpse that Ukrainian resilience, which has Russia struggling.”
Another Canadian continued. “We’re amazed how this afternoon you dealt with the mock ‘hostile’ raid. Perhaps against a Russian ‘Bear’ bomber your tactic might have failed. But you forced our Aurora maritime patrol aircraft to land—”
“—So, your ground crews could overpower the Aurora’s personnel… who have agreed to stay for the evening. Time to celebrate your success, pilots.”
Outside they were joined by the embarrassed twelve-person Aurora crew, escorted by six Ukrainian chief mechanics.
“They were worried what we were going to do with them,” said Anzhela’s partner Larisa.
“Make them dance all night for us,” shouted the Witches.
A roar of jet engines.
Everyone turned towards the main runway as another four Hornets in Ukrainian markings and the squadron’s distinctive midnight blue camouflage landed.
Ground crew guided the fighters into temporary hangers.
The pilots joined the watchers and saluted Anzhela.
“I’m Kapitan Maryna Sobol,” said the wiry blond leading the group. “We’re Sable Flight from Cold Lake. I’ll explain more in the warmth.”
As they approached the mess, Maryna stopped, glowing inside as she watched a swarthy mechanic spontaneously make a snow angel and giggle.
The mechanic grinned and jumped up. “I’m Bohdana Shvets. The angel’s for our protection. Let me get you a beer and whatever else you desire.”
After she’d eaten, Maryna told everyone, “We’re all Canadian-Ukrainians, inspired by the defense of our ancestral home, especially by you Night Witches.”
Once the shouts of Slava Ukrayini ended, she continued, “We originally trained with the RCAF. Chayka Air obtained our Hornets, then repainted them.”
“So, you volunteered like our Majors?” asked Anzhela.
“Yes. We’ve all changed nationality to fight. But please help us adapt our dialect to standard Ukrainian. If you need to know more, chat to any of us.”
Maryna nodded as the enticing groom pointed at their empty glasses. Her sensual musing was interrupted by Anzhela and the Garrison Commander, who asked a question many had posited.
“Since February 24th, we’ve all worried about provoking the Russians and escalating this war. Fortunately, the gradual increase in weaponry, like HIMARS, hasn’t. But do you think equipping a squadron with NATO jets will trigger that reaction?”
“I pray we can fly ten Hornets into Ukraine via Poland, low-level at night… without the Russians noticing,” said Maryna, crossing herself. “As for combat, how did the Witches avoid enemy escalation before?”
“Witches luck,” said Anzhela. “Guess a few NATO jets with Ukrainian markings on night sorties were misidentified. But a squadron of 20 won’t remain hidden.”
The Commander advised caution. “Timing is crucial. Other NATO deployments like Leopard 2 tanks might distract attention from your next sorties.”
Bohdana returned with refills for the table and asked Maryna, “Can we expect others like you from Cold Lake?”
The blonde smiled. “Like me… or more volunteers?” She paused, staring intently at the mechanic. “I’m unique… but other recruits – sure. Chayka Air has set up a training program for pilot and mechanic Night Witch volunteers, especially from Ukraine, as well as Canadians.”
“Privately funded?” asked Anzhela.
“Donations and Chayka staff giving their time. Plus, decommissioned RCAF jets will be available at discounts.”
The Commander added, “A few avenues remain, so our Canadian MOD doesn’t officially step outside current policy on Ukraine.”
Recognizing the distracted couple, Anzhela stood. “Sir, we must finalize tomorrow’s departures.”
When the other two had left, Bohdana asked Maryna, “Can I be your chief mechanic… please? I haven’t been properly assigned. I have unique—”
“—qualities I need to satisfy. Let’s slip away before we’re missed.”
**
Sunday, February 12th – Airfield “Kalyniv” near the Polish border.
Anzhela led the six Hornets of Silver Flight in silent low-level approach towards Kalyniv airfield. As dusk fell, she cleared the familiar treetops at the snow-ploughed runway’s end, then lowered her landing gear. Her wing-sisters followed, and when the ground crews taxied away the last plane, Maryna led the four jets of Sable Flight down.
Larisa embraced Anzhela as she climbed onto the ground.
“Even that was too long being apart. At least I got to see how Hornets are refueled mid-Atlantic by an air tanker. Impressive Chayka maintaining their retired RCAF Boeing CC-137. It was comfortable too… more than the truck from Kraków.”
“Or a Hornet for hours?” Both laughed, then Anzhela added, “But our refuel stopover with Chayka’s Swedish military friends was a relief.” As her flight-sisters gathered, she said, “Time to debrief.”
I was chosen as Runner-Up in the WEP-IWSG’s December Challenge The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face with my story Swords to Ploughshares.
Writing fiction set against a horrific war has been difficult to research and write. Other than a small donation to Médecins Sans Frontières, one of the main charities helping in Ukraine, this has been one of the few ways this invalid can help keep people aware of the ongoing injustices.
I will continue to follow events and reflect them in my Challenge posts in 2023.
Unfortunately, that last piece proved inaccurate. I portrayed a peaceful moment during the festive season, yet Russian missiles continued to rain down on Ukraine throughout what should have been the Holy time of Peace.
I will attempt to rectify the inaccuracy in my compilation Freedom Flights, which is an ongoing project. I’ve been working on some Ukraine stories to fill the gap between my 1944 short story and my 2022 flash entries. So, this Runner-Up award is encouraging and uplifting, as I continue following the current war for the 2023 Challenges.
I’m also grateful as my health is so uncertain, I need goals to keep going.
Next week may prove complicated as my term ends with my current hospice team, so we need to find a new provider.
My New Year resolution was to re-start my revision of ‘Fevered Fuse’, my Snowdonia police procedural afresh. However, I can’t find my editor’s comments and in-depth edit – her email is missing and my desktop is still not installed after seven months. I’ve emailed her, hoping she efficiently keeps clients’ files.
Anyway, have great 2023 filled with fruitful writing gems.
Plus, Plot ahead for the Year of the Water Rabbit commencing January 22nd.
**
Every month, IWSG announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Remember, the question is optional!
January 4 question – Do you have a word of the year? Is there one word that sums up what you need to work on or change in the coming year? For instance, in 2021 my word of the year was Finish. I was determined to finished my first draft by the end of the year. In 2022, my word of the year is Ease. I want to get my process, systems, finances, and routines where life flows with ease and less chaos. What is your word for 2023? Why?
THRIVE
Thrive as in my health intentions, despite current hospice issues.
Thrive as in one of the protein drinks I use to stay alive.
Thrive as in my Snowdon police detectives striving to get published.
Thrive as in my Ukrainian pilots surviving and finding genuine peace.
Thrive as in my hopes and prayers for the determined people of Ukraine.
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
My December WEP-IWSG Challenge post, using ‘The first time ever I saw your face’ prompt was missing what was outlined as Act 3. However, I felt I needed to write and post this next Part of my Ukraine stories as some kind of conclusion.
When do they become a saga?
Anyway, for those new to this ongoing creation, please note, this present day tale began with my World War II story Feathered Fire, which introduced the Chayka family from Ukraine and appeared in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost.
Blurb: Night Witches look to the Peace after the firestorm.
Part 6
Swords to Ploughshares
2022
Wednesday, December 21st – Airfield “Kalyniv” near the Polish border.
The headlights of six trucks sparkled on the drifts of snow beside the runway. Anzhela and Larisa slid open the main hanger doors.
When the vehicles had parked inside, the Chayka cousins climbed out and greeted the assembled squadron members.
“Our Canadian supporters send seasonal blessings and this first convoy from Poland,” said Kalyna. “The fundraising meetings raised 8 million Canadian dollars—”
Exclamations of surprise and joy erupted from the gathering.
“—with more promised,” added Vasy. “This first consignment includes urgent humanitarian and medical supplies for us and the local community.”
“And others?” asked Anzhela. “Like those in Eastern Ukraine?”
Vasy said, “All arranged and probably more. The Canadians were also concerned we could tackle extreme cold weather requirements. So, as well as thermal blankets and clothes, we’ve included portable generators and stoves.”
“Amazing raising so much,” said Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk, leader of the newly created Green Wing. “We can now help so many more. If only we could do more to stop the almost daily rocket attacks.”
“When the Witches are at full strength,” said Kalyna. “Then Command will sanction more missions… especially with six more Hornets.”
Cheers greeted this news.
“Not new Hornets, but earlier models the Canadian Airforce were due to replace,” said Vasy. “They’ve also suppled equipment to repurpose our recovered jets, and for servicing all Hornets.”
Mariyka embraced her wing sisters.
“Maybe we’ll no longer be flying planes from other wings after our Christmas leave.”
“Correct Kapitan,” said Vasy. “Six of us will return with the Hornets after a five-week winter training course in Canada, starting January 9th.”
Green Wing saluted, then Mariyka said, “If anyone plans to be in Lviv on Christmas Eve, you are welcome to join my family and me for midnight mass at St George’s Cathedral.
Her family were all waiting when Mariyka reached their restaurant.
Her mother hugged her. “I’m pleased you wore your uniform, vilunya. We’re so proud of you.”
“So brave too, Kapitan Shevchuk,” said her sister. “Whenever a fighter jet flies low and fast…” She gazed up, then glanced behind. “You remember Tomas, your nephew… he’s staying with us.”
Mariyka remembered… his father had volunteered… and been killed in defending Slovyansk. Tomas had moved to Lviv with his mother, who now helped cook… when there were customers. Eating by candlelight might be romantic, but evading air raids was still a danger at night.
Tomas was watching her from beside his mother. “Papa wore a uniform too. He made me a gun to fight evil Russians.”
“I keep telling my son there are good Russians.”
Mariyka nodded, remembering Larisa Kovalyov.
“Please can you make me a plane?”
“I’m not as clever as your papa was, but I can try.”
Her mother waved her over. “One of the POWs at the local camp might make toys.”
**
Wearing her uniform for courage, Mariyka approached the camp commander, asking if there was a woodworker able to make a toy plane.
“I might have a true craftsman. He’s also a model POW, so I’d be less worried about him making a war toy.”
“That was my concern too. I worry what examples we’re sowing.”
Minutes later, a guard escorted her over to a shed where a man was working a candlestick holder on a lathe.
He turned and stood, removing protective goggles.
He was tall and strong, but it was the sun rising in his amber eyes which melted her.
“I’m Sergei,” he stammered.
She stumbled over her name and what she wanted.
“A wooden jet,” he repeated. “I’m impressed at you women flyers. Our men don’t even dare fly at night.”
A tremor shot through her. Had he heard about the Witches?
Does he fear us?
Time passed in a blissful sharing of dreams and hope. He suggested a better toy. Admitted his opposition to the war, and his immediate surrender when given the chance.
He finished polishing the candlestick holder, and she bought it with some others.
Pillar Candle Holders
“Can the toy be ready in two days – or is that too soon?
“For you anything.”
“Are you allowed to come to midnight mass?”
“I was Russian Orthodox… until Patriarch Krill called this a ‘Holy War’. For you, I will come.”
Saturday, December 24th – St. George’s Cathedral, Lviv
Mariyka and her family waited in the darkness for her squadron sisters. Other families were huddled round candles or torches, gathering for midnight mass on this most holy eve.
Slowly, people went inside, past the stone images of Pope St. Leo and St. Athanasius guarding the portal
Mariyka glanced upwards into the frigid night sky. Would the enemy attack on this night Ukraine defenses might be focused elsewhere? Overcast skies kept the air force grounded and ground batteries blind.
Her eyes settled on the cathedral’s peak and the silhouette of St George fighting evil as a fearsome monster. Putin? He would lose against the followers of St George.
St George’s Cathedral, Lviv — façade: mounted statue of St. George, piercing a dragon with a spear, two statues st. Leo and st. Athanasius, a symbol of the unity of the Church. Taken from pl:Grafika:SoborSwJuraLwow2.jpg by pl:Wikipedysta:Stako
Then, many of her sisters, all in uniform, climbed the steps and came alongside the balustrade towards her.
“Everyone wanted to attend,” said Anzhela. “But Kalyna and Vasy insisted on remaining with a few volunteers. But they send greetings and blessings.
Mariyka had just finished introductions, when some Ukrainian guards appeared, escorting four Russian prisoners.
Sergei strode up to her and saluted.
“Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk, it is a pleasure to see you again—” He paused and despite the cold, blushed, then said in Ukrainian, “Solnyshko moi.”
As her sisters giggled, she said, “Lyubimyy, I missed you, but I am honored you came. May I introduce my family and friends.”
She turned to find Anzhela’s partner Larisa in tears. Then Larisa threw her arms around Sergei.
“We feared you might be dead, dearest cousin. And then Mariyka finds you and falls in love. How?”
“A miracle arising from a gift I need to give… please solnyshko moi.”
Mariyka took his hand and introduced her nephew. Sergei bowed to Tomas, handing him a wrapped present.
“My apologies, but this humble carpenter crafted what I felt you needed.”
Tomas unwrapped the wooden toy. A tractor painted blue and yellow.
“Thank you, kind Russian. This is wonderful. Now I can pull dead tanks away… and feed people.”
The bells for Midnight mass rang.
Marika allowed Sergei to take her arm and follow everyone inside.
Anzhela took Larisa’s arm. “Peace works best through relationships like ours”
1,074 words FCA
As the terrible war in Ukraine may continue for months, my stories won’t end here, especially since this new romance must thrive.
In fact, my restless brain has outlined another episode. There’s a clue above to the opening event in the New Year. All I need is a WEP/IWSG Challenge prompt to weave into it
Writing Wings 
