WEP/IWSG December Challenge – Zvenigora Snow

December 11, 2023 by Roland Clarke

First, many thanks to the WEP team for inspiring us writers to create more gems with their Challenges. My thanks too to IWSG for their participation, and to my fellow writers and readers for their support and encouragement. Without all of this, I wouldn’t have written as much.

For those who didn’t realize, this is the final WEP Challenge. However, this is not the end of my Ukraine posts as I intend to write more Freedom Flights episodes until we reach a just peace. But as some commentators are talking about a long war or an enforced peace that allows Putin to invade again when his forces are stronger, I may have been forced to cease writing if that’s three or more years.

However, I’ll be optimistic and plan to see this published. In case you missed the previous non-WEP/IWSG Challenge episode of Freedom Flights, titled Embedded, here’s the link: https://rolandclarke.com/2023/12/10/freedom-flights-episode-14-embedded/

Moving on to this month’s theme Over To You and ‘the movie that inspires’, I knew early on what the choice would be. Well, okay, it could have been my favorite film, as that would have fitted since one of the two leads is a pilot. That 1946 film is A Matter of Life and Death, released in the US as Stairway to Heaven: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Matter_of_Life_and_Death_(film). I recommend the movie if you like classic fantasy-romances.

Official UK cinema poster for A Matter of Life and Death – Copyright: Eagle-Lion Films

However, the final scene of my February 2023 Challenge episode, Winds of Change, foreshadowed the movie I chose.: https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

For those new to this ongoing creation, please note, that 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.

The current stories open with Episode 1, Rainbow Firebreak, for the WEP/IWSG April: Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-a-hard-rains-a-gonna-fall/.

Episode 2, Winged Woes, for the WEP/IWSG June Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/06/15/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-please-read-the-letter/

Episode 3, Moonbeam Magic, for the WEP/IWSG August Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/08/17/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-moonlight-sonata/

Episode 4, Winged Death, for the WEP/IWSG October Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/10/19/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-thriller/

Episode 5, Soul Seeds, for the WEP/IWSG December Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/01/wep-iwsg-december-challenge-first-time-ever/

Episode 6, Swords to Ploughshares, to conclude the WEP/IWSG December Challenge and close 2022: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/10/swords-to-ploughshares/

Episode 7, Winter Resolution https://rolandclarke.com/2023/01/31/wep-iwsg-challenge-resolve/ This extra post leads into this month’s Challenge entry and included a plot event I foreshadowed in Part 6.

Episode 8, Winds of Change https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

Episode 9, Precious Relations, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-life-is-beautiful/

Episode 10, Inception, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/12/freedom-flights-part-10-inception/ .

Episode 11, Shaped Encounters, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/23/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-close-encounters/ .

Episode 12, Chocolate Pots, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/08/16/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-chocolate-pots/

Episode 13, Masked Nemesis, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/10/18/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-masked-nemesis/

Episode 14, Embedded, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/12/10/freedom-flights-episode-14-embedded/

Blurb: The Witches family yearn to dispel their winter gloom with light… and snow.

Episode 15 – Zvenigora Snow

2023

Wednesday, December 6^th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

F-16 jets in March over Poland. Training for Ukrainian pilots could take place there.
Credit: Lukasz Glowala/Reuters

Snow flurries blew across the runway outside the Night Witches’ office. Kalyna and Vasy watched the last F-16 trainer land.

Back at their desks, Vasy placed a conference call with their husbands in Canada. Within five minutes they were discussing Winter plans.

“We’re sorry not to be joining you for the Chayka Air Fundraiser Dinner,” said Kalyna. “Is Aliona expecting to raise as much as last year after the media switched focus to the Middle East and now Guyana Essequibo?”

“Hopefully,” said her husband Leonid. “Canadian-Ukrainians remain committed, as do the refugees. Aliona believes the two survivors from Sable Flight attending, Maryna Sobol and Katia Antonov, will raise awareness.”

“Let’s hope so,” said Vasy. “That’s crucial for 2024.” She paused before asking, “Who’s coming here for Christmas? You’re all invited.”

“Since our daughter Klara is with you, our family will come,” said Marcus, her husband. “But we haven’t persuaded Leonid’s brood yet.”

“First, there’s the fundraiser to organize.”

Vasy scribbled a note for Kalyna, then pointed at the time.

“Save your answer for tomorrow’s call. We have a double gathering now,” said Kalyna. “Instead of honoring Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children, yesterday evening, the Witches are celebrating today as it’s also Ukraine’s Armed Forces Day.”

“Appropriate as we must defend our precious children,” added Vasy, “while Putin kidnaps hundreds from Eastern Ukraine, then brainwashes them.”

Thursday, December 7^th – Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Mariyka and Sergei watched the snowflakes spiral in the cold air as they walked home.

“It’s hard to enjoy such natural beauty,” said Mariyka, “while a few hundred kilometers east of us, mud and blood are all our brave comrades live with.”

“When will the violence end?” asked Sergei. “How many more deaths?”

She let a snowflake melt on her palm.

“I hate to think… too many. This war drags on too long.” She let out a sigh, her breath freezing in the air. “I must do more. I fear Russia grinds ahead in this war of attrition.”

“But at what cost to my friends… to those I love? Putin doesn’t care what happens to Russia or Ukraine.”

Walking into the restaurant, Mariyka said, “Unless his empire rises from the ashes, even if that takes ten years of war—”

“—or a false peace during which he rearms.”

Her aunt came over from the bar. “Depressing thoughts for Hanukkah, when we should celebrate the triumph of light over darkness. We must be positive. Putin will be defeated, whatever faith we follow.”

Memories of Christmas Eve midnight mass in St. George’s Cathedral in Lviv, wrapped around Mariyka, as she and Sergei followed her aunt to where other guests waited.

After Agnieszka lit the first candle on the Chanukiah, the family brought in Jewish food, including potato latkes and pastries.

Hanukkah table
– Author: MathKnight – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:MathKnight

Sergei asked, “I’m not familiar with Hanukkah so please explain why your menorah candelabra has nine branches?”

“The eight-branched menorah or Chanukiah has a place for a ninth candle, the shammes,” said Agnieszka. “As I just did, the ninth is used to light the others… one on this first night of Hanukkah, and an additional candle is lit on each successive night until, on the eighth night December 14, the Chanukiah is fully illuminated.”

“Many thanks,” said Sergei. “It’s fascinating how many festivals of light are held this time of year. Like December 13th is St. Lucia’s Day—”

“—which used to occur on the shortest day. Hence the saying ‘Lucy light, Lucy light, shortest day and longest night’,” said Mariyka.

Friday, December 8^th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

A MiG-29 Fulcrum takes off from Starokostiantyniv Air Base, Ukraine, Oct. 9 as part of the Clear Sky 2018 exercise. The exercise promotes regional stability and security, while strengthening partner capabilities and fostering trust. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Charles Vaughn)

The overnight wind had swept sparkling snowdrifts against the Engineering Hangar. By floodlight, the cadets cleared the drift blocking the main door, ensuring another refurbished MiG-29 could be moved outside later.

“Who will be test-flying the plane today?” asked Daria. “Not that I’m judging our rebuilds.”

Anzhela Havrylyuk and her chief mechanic, Larisa Kovalyov, appeared out of the darkness.

“Nor are any of the squadron. Every MiG-29 you’ve rebuilt has flown better than new. Larisa is just here for her normal flight check.”

The group moved further inside as more mechanics and cadets arrived.

“How many more MiGs are we scheduled to rebuild this month,” asked Maja.

Her colleague Nadzieja checked on the Planner board. “One, if the holidays disrupt our usual two per month.”

One cadet moved towards them, shaking her head.

“Am I wrong to worry when the head of Poland’s National Security Bureau warns Russia could attack Eastern NATO countries after Ukraine?” asked Klara Holub. “Should we prepare for that confrontation over the next three years?”

“I suspect we will,” said Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth. “Not just Poland, but also the three Baltic nations, plus Finland and others bordering Russia. The initial German report said NATO should plan for six to 10 years, but it’s wiser to be ready sooner.”

“But for Ukrainians,” added Anzhela. “We must survive this winter, and then a year at least with decreasing allied support. A year ago, we could dream of the F-16s some of us are training on. Now, this squadron may still be relying on these refurbished MiG-29s in 2024.”

Larisa threw her arms around her dejected partner. “We must remain positive. Remember today is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. At Mass tonight, we should pray for peace and justice everywhere.”

Monday, December 11^th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Fairy lights danced around Zvenigora Restaurant, snow crystals adding to the magic. The Witches shook powdery whiteness from their boots as they went inside.

“Can we put aside all our winter dread tonight?” asked Vasy, putting an arm around her daughter Klara. “It’s depressing enough learning about more truckers blockading the borders.”

“All supply problems and infrastructure attacks were dismissed in the doorway,” said Kalyna.

“For beautiful snowscapes and the arrival of our imagined 200 Gripen jets,” said Anzhela, walking over to a movie poster with Cyrillic script. “Last year, I forgot Zvenigora was a silent film by Ukrainian director Alexander Dovzhenko, which we saw when we were students.”

Mariyka smiled, tears in her eyes. “My murdered mother said our posters held a clue. Can you remember anything about the film?”

“Though fragmented, wasn’t there a legend about treasure buried in Mount Zvenigora?” replied Anzhela. “Around scenes blending industrialization and the beauty of the Ukrainian steppes.”

“It re-told ancient myths, I remember,” added Larisa. “One of the first films we saw together. When snow brought peace on earth.”

Poster for the 1928 Soviet Ukrainian film Zvenigora, by Alexander Dovzhenko.

FCA 1,092 words

Slava Ukrayini

As a classic Ukrainian film blending a mix of elements, I felt ‘Zvenigora‘ worked as an ideal and unusual name for my fictional restaurant. Here are a few links:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0019611/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zvenigora

Freedom Flights: Episode 14 – Embedded

December 10, 2023 by Roland Clarke

In October, I posted my most recent WEP/IWSG Challenge episode, Masked Nemesis. Below you will find the next episode, Embedded, which I wrote as the first part of my 2023 NaNoWriMo entry. For the rest of that entry, I wrote three more Freedom Flights episodes Forest Elusion, Prairie Pride, and Saskatoon Sunrise – set respectively in 1944, 1947, and 1950. These are the first of the stories linking my original WWII story Feathered Fire and my ongoing present-day episodes.

The current stories open with Episode 1, Rainbow Firebreak, for the WEP/IWSG April: Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-a-hard-rains-a-gonna-fall/.

Episode 2, Winged Woes, for the WEP/IWSG June Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/06/15/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-please-read-the-letter/

Episode 3, Moonbeam Magic, for the WEP/IWSG August Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/08/17/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-moonlight-sonata/

Episode 4, Winged Death, for the WEP/IWSG October Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/10/19/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-thriller/

Episode 5, Soul Seeds, for the WEP/IWSG December Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/01/wep-iwsg-december-challenge-first-time-ever/

Episode 6, Swords to Ploughshares, to conclude the WEP/IWSG December Challenge and close 2022: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/10/swords-to-ploughshares/

Episode 8, Winds of Change https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

Episode 9, Precious Relations, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-life-is-beautiful/

Episode 10, Inception, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/12/freedom-flights-part-10-inception/ .

Episode 11, Shaped Encounters, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/23/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-close-encounters/ .

Episode 12, Chocolate Pots, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/08/16/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-chocolate-pots/

Episode 13, Masked Nemesis, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/10/18/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-masked-nemesis/

Episode 14 – Embedded

2023

Wednesday November 1^st – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

It was still dark when Mariyka and Sergei finished cleaning the dining area of the restaurant after the successful Veles celebrations.

“You must have time for breakfast,” said her sister Sabina from the doorway into the kitchen, which she and Aunt Agnieszka had been cleaning. “We’ve made enough pancakes to feed a room of cadets.”

Hearing a knock at the front door, Mariyka checked.

It was her chief mechanic, Dariya Boyko, with the journalist writing about the squadron.

“Jane Wetherby wanted to talk before you’re needed in the Engineering hangar.”

“Let’s chat over breakfast with my family.”

“Perfect. I’d hoped they were here as well.”

Once they were all seated with plates of food and everyone was introduced, Jane took out her notepad.

“Do you all feel it’s brave and necessary for a woman like Mariyka to serve in a front-line unit?’

“Of course,” said Agnieszka. “As brave and important as the men. But as her aunt, I worry every time she flies in combat… as we all do.”

“Braver than men like me,” said Sergei. “But as a Russian, I surrendered, unwilling to fight. Now I can admire my partner Mariyka instead.”

Jane let the others express their admiration, then asked another question.

“Mariyka, I believe your family is part Jewish. Do you have relations in Israel, who might be involved in the war?”

“Yes,” replied Agnieszka. “Some cousins, who left Poland in 1993 and still live there—”

“—and like me, one was a pilot… but she was killed… fighting for a cause they believed in,” added Mariyka. “Dare we believe Hamas doesn’t want the destruction of Israel. Nor Putin ours.”

Sabina nodded. “Let’s pray neither war escalates, and more innocent lives are lost.”

“Unfortunately, with thousands already dead in Gaza,” said Dariya, “fatalities in Ukraine no longer provoke concern. The world’s focus has shifted away from us.”

Saturday, November 11^th – Unbroken National Rehabilitation Center, Lviv, Ukraine

“Kapitan Sobol, I wish you a steady recovery. Do you miss the squadron?” asked Jane Wetherby.

Maryna squeezed her fellow survivor Katia’s hand. “My flight sisters… who died especially. And the ground crew who tried to save them. Lives lost. So many casualties everywhere. My precious Bohdana. Why?”

“Freedom,” said Katia. “Isn’t that why we fight? Except some of our allies forget that I fear. Are we still fighting for Ukraine and Canada? Or just our ancestral motherland?”

“How many of you Witches were born in Canada?”

Maryna closed her eyes, letting Katia answer.

“Seven… less our two late sisters, who joined along with us. Whether other Canadian-Ukrainians become Witches depends on how this war is reported.”

Dropping her head, Jane paused before saying, “I hope my article helps. Where has the West failed Ukraine?”

“Supplying key weapons too late,” said Maryna. “Like ATACMS and cluster munitions. It’s exactly a year since Kherson was liberated yet we should have progressed further since then. We needed those weapons before our counter-offensive. Our brave forces have managed a multi-prong approach. But NATO doctrine recommends combined arms, an air-land campaign… when the right weapons are available. We are fighting an enemy NATO never has.”

“Without them, shaping operations were a slow tough grind,” added Katia. “Did our allies expect a swift assault while they delayed? We need better mine clearance and electronic measures. Only now are we being allowed to train on F-16s. Can Ukraine survive until the promised jets arrive?”

Friday, November 17^th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

“F-16s alone will not ensure our victory,” said Maksym Bondarenko, “but they will be a factor. We must convince our allies of the pressing need for their unwavering support.”

“Until the F-16s arrive, our engineering team will keep rebuilding and upgrading MiG-29s,” added Anatol Krakarth.

Mariyka nodded in agreement.

Jane looked at the group gathered in the squadron’s office.

“If your allies propose a peace plan, what form must that take?”

“It can’t allow Russia to keep any Ukrainian territory,” replied Maksym. “Including Crimea.”

“So, no peace that allows them to invade again,” added Vasy. “Difficult but crucial.”

“There must be a means to include reparations,” said Kalyna. “We can’t expect the West to cover all the costs of rebuilding what the Russians have destroyed.”

Jane held up her hands. “Possibly controversial, considering the heated discussions currently over the legality of using seized Russian assets. So, how dependent is victory on the extent of Western fatigue and further delays in support?”

“Extremely,” said Mariyka. “I fear what this winter might bring. Yet I know we must keep believing and doing everything we can to press forward.”

“And hope the crisis within US politics doesn’t favor Putin,” added Vasy.

Tuesday, November 21^st – Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

The images on the screen might be ten years old, but everyone watching had vivid memories of Euromaidan on this Day of Dignity and Freedom. Even the Canadians since they all had Ukrainian ancestry, especially the cousins Kalyna and Vasy, whose grandmothers had escaped Stalin’s tyranny in 1944.

Euromaidan in Kyiv – Photo: **Evgeny Feldman** – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Euromaidan_03.JPG

“Were your grandmothers alive to witness Putin’s invasion of Crimea the following year?” asked Jane.

“Both were,” replied Vasy. “The one I’m named after was doing great at 82, while Kalyna’s was as spry at 92. They were comparing Putin to Stalin, yet still optimistic after the Euromaidan events.”

“Were you tempted to come here and help?”

“Tempted yes,” said Kalyna. “But we were still serving in the RCAF. Although at 42, we were thinking of retiring. Four years after Crimea we did when we were unofficial guests at Clear Sky 2018 hosted by Starokostiantyniv air base.”

Jane turned her attention to the Ukrainians in the Witches’ office.

“Did any of you take part in the Euromaidan demonstrations?”

“I was on leave from the Airforce,” said Maksym. “In Kyiv, where my family lived, before we moved to Lviv. I was meant to remain loyal to the government, yet I felt torn. So, I went to Maidan Nezalezhnosti on that first day and realized from all the speeches, that our country needed to be free of the old Soviet ties.”

“How long did you remain in the central square?”

“A few hours at first. But I returned every day I was on leave, doing what I could to support the protestors. Mainly with food and first aid, although back then I didn’t join a Maidan Self-Defense unit. If I wasn’t a serving officer, I’d have joined. Unfortunately, when the Crimea invasion happened, the armed forces proved too late to respond.”

Saturday November 25^th – Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

The Hall of Memory and to the Black Board Alley
– Author: Kiyanka – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum_of_the_Holodomor-Genocide

Moonlight cast shadows beside the Witches and their colleagues as they gathered for the remembrance ceremony on the 91^st anniversary of the devastating 1932-33 famine in Ukraine.

“Why is it known as the Holodomor?” asked Jane, as they all prepared to light memorial candles.

“It means ‘death by hunger’ as an estimated 7 million Ukrainians died,” replied Vasy as her husband clutched her hand.

Marko explained. “I was privileged to know Vasy and Kalyna’s grandmothers, who escaped Ukraine after their parents died—”

“—of starvation in Stalin’s famine,” added Kalyna’s husband Leonid.

With respectful reflection, everyone lit their candles. Then in their flickering light, observed a minute of silence remembering the victims.

As they returned to the airfield, Mariyka and Agnieszka invited everyone back to the Zvenigora Restaurant for a final act of remembrance and food.

Inside the family lit candles on every windowsill.

Maryka explained. “The tradition of ’Candle in the Window’ was suggested by Holodomor researcher James Mace in 2003, saying ‘Even seven decades later, a candle that flickers in the window seems to me to be a worthy reply’. We do this every year.”

“Even more relevant when Putin is again using hunger as a weapon,” added her sister.

“A weapon affecting people already near starvation in other countries,” said Nadzieja Chlebek. “Like the majors, I have family who suffered during Holodomor. My great-grandfather lost his parents in 1932.”

“Although I trained to fly in Canada. my family are originally Polish-Ukrainian,” said Adriana Pavlenko. “And I grew up learning about the suffering of millions over those decades.”

Jane kept making notes, then said, “Sending drones on the eve of Holodomor to attack Kyiv adds to the affront.” She continued, asking, “Has it ever been suggested that the squadron gets sent to guard the alternative grain route to the Black Sea.”

“Not yet,” said Kalyna. “For now, it’s either ground defenses or planes stationed nearer the Danube River ports.”

“But as long as Russia threatens any sensible grain deal,” added Leonid, “this is genocide against Ukraine and others. Yet one of many war crimes they must be held accountable for.”

“And your father, Vasy,” said Marko, “is attempting to pursue some of the children Russia has kidnapped from Eastern Ukraine.”

“As we often say, unpunished evil grows like cancer,” added Agnieszka. “Poland’s prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki last year said, “If we allow Putin to continue, he will become the Stalin of the 21st century,”

Slava Ukrayini

The next Freedom Flights episode will be the final WEP/IWSG Challenge of 2023, Over To You, which allows us to choose a film that inspires our post… so, I understand. I aim to have something up in the next 24 hours. The clue to the film hangs in a restaurant.

https://writeeditpublishnow.blogspot.com/2023/11/wep-december-challenge-over-to-you.html

#IWSG – NaNoWriMo Challenge

November 1, 2023 by Roland Clarke

This month’s piece for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group post is a challenge for two reasons. (1) as in the title and November’s optional question; and (2) the problems arising from my bedridden state, especially my injured leg. The injury is taking a while to heal, compounded by some pro-carers making abrupt adjustments to the leg.

Meanwhile, during October, I managed to write my next Ukraine story. But as the war drags on, there are many issues I need to address. So, I’ve introduced a new character to interact with my Night Witches in another extra episode, titled Embedded, before the WEP/IWSG flash due in December.

If you want to read the October episode, with a Halloween theme, go to:

WEP/IWSG October Challenge – Masked Nemesis

Slava Ukrayini

Every month, IWSG announces 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!

November 1 question: November is National Novel Writing Month. Have you ever participated? If not, why not?

Although I first joined NaNoWriMo on November 3^rd, 2011, I have no official record of what I tried to write that month… although this website implies it was The Last Leaf. So, my first recorded attempt was in November 2012, when I wrote 54,817 words, which became the first draft of Wyrm Blood.

Work Progression – or not

50k words is the target set by NaNoWriMo, so a measure of success… a win. As well as my 2012 success, I also ‘won’ five more times between 2013 and 2018, only missing 2014, when I didn’t start anything. However, in November 2015, I wrote 70,274 words, my largest ever NaNoWriMo count. This was towards Fates Maelstrom, a novel I started in 2012, but relocated to North Wales, so it could feature an early version of Detective Sparkle Anwyl. https://rolandclarke.com/2015/11/12/sparkle-anwyl-sleuth-or-sidekick/

I have not taken part since 2018, due mostly to my health, and to having unfinished projects. Those include my Ukraine stories.

Although I’m aware that 50k is a count too far this year, I will attempt to write some more Ukraine historical stories to fill the period between 1944 and 2022. The proposed Freedom Flights collection will open with my 1944 World War II story Feathered Fire, which introduced the two Ukrainian Chayka sisters and appeared in the 2020 IWSG Anthology (No. 5), Voyagers: The Third Ghost.

I then propose to add stories which explain how the Chayka sisters settled in Canada and founded the aviation business, which encourages two of their granddaughters to join the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1988. Although the original Chayka sisters were still alive to celebrate Ukrainian independence in December 1991 (aged 69/59), they died when Putin annexed Crimea in March (aged 92/82). As soon as they leave the RCAF, the granddaughters vow to fight for their homeland.

So, when Russia invades Ukraine on 24^th February, the granddaughters enlist, thus launching the current series of my 2022-23 WEP/IWSG Challenges. The Challenges which I pray will include a just peace, will conclude the Freedom Flights collection.

Let Us Beat Swords into Plowshares, sculpture by Yevgeny Vuchetich – 1959 gift of the Soviet Union to the United Nations – garden of the United Nations Headquarters in New York City
Photo: Neptuul. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swords_to_ploughshares

I also intend to write my proposed 2023 episode Embedded during NaNoWriMo, probably in the first few days.

Good luck everyone else who rises to the NaNoWriMo Challenge in November 2023.

The awesome co-hosts for the November 1 posting of the IWSG are PJ Colando, Jean Davis, Lisa Buie Collard, and Diedre Knight!

Finally, don’t forget to visit more active writers via the IWSG site:

Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!

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!

WEP/IWSG August Challenge – Chocolate Pots

August 16, 2023 by Roland Clarke

Although this WEP/IWSG August Challenge entry attempts to echo ongoing events, I’ve had to stray down the fictional path more than usual. Also, it’s hard to know what’s actually happening as much of the military information is restricted. However, it’s clear that there is much more bloody fighting to come, and more sacrifices

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.

The current stories open with Part 1, Rainbow Firebreak, for the WEP/IWSG April: Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-a-hard-rains-a-gonna-fall/.

Part 2, Winged Woes, for the WEP/IWSG June Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/06/15/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-please-read-the-letter/

Part 3, Moonbeam Magic, for the WEP/IWSG August Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/08/17/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-moonlight-sonata/

Part 4, Winged Death, for the WEP/IWSG October Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/10/19/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-thriller/

Part 5, Soul Seeds, for the WEP/IWSG December Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/01/wep-iwsg-december-challenge-first-time-ever/

Part 6, Swords to Ploughshares, to conclude the WEP/IWSG December Challenge and close 2022: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/10/swords-to-ploughshares/

Part 7, Winter Resolution https://rolandclarke.com/2023/01/31/wep-iwsg-challenge-resolve/ This extra post leads into this month’s Challenge entry and included a plot event I foreshadowed in Part 6.

Part 8, Winds of Change https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

Part 9, Precious Relations, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-life-is-beautiful/

Part 10, Inception, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/12/freedom-flights-part-10-inception/ .

Part 11, Shaped Encounters, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/06/23/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-close-encounters/ .

Blurb: The Night Witches taste from the past and discover new delights

Part 12 Chocolate Pots

2023

Friday, August 4^th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

The six Sukhoi Su-24 landed in quick succession and were then parked in the last vacant revetments.

**English:** Ukrainian Air Force Sukhoi Su-24M at Starokonstantinov

As the male pilots marched towards the waiting officers, Vasy Chayka said, “They’re wearing 114th Tactical Aviation Brigade patches like us. Were any disrespectful of our Witches?”

Colonel Maksym Bondarenko smiled, then said, “Maybe before being assigned to protect your airfield near Lviv.” He stopped as the Sukhoi flight commander approached and saluted.

“Kapitan Andriy Pavlenko reporting for F-16 training of the first flight from the 41st Tactical Aviation Brigade. We are honored to be at the Polish School of Eagles.”

“Although the University are our host,” said Maksym, “the F-16 trainers were all obtained by the 2022 Night Witches. We also have permission from the Polish Air Force to train in their air space with other NATO air units.”

Kapitan Pavlenko blushed as he overtly stared when a tall blonde Polish officer stepped towards him.

“I am Major Klaudia Smolak. I will be your flight’s F-16 trainer. We start at 14.00. Don’t be late.”

Andriy knew the stern major was testing him and probably knew he had insulted some Witches in that Lviv restaurant. She’d left before telling him where to meet, but he’d chanced talking to one of the Night Witch commanders.

“Major Chayka, my apologies for any past indiscretion towards your pilots.”

“Forgiven. I presume you need directions, so you make the right impression on your deceptive trainer.”

Armed with information on their quarters and the locations of all the planes, Andriy earned his first nod of recognition from Klaudia.

And the flight made an impressive start on F-16s.

Tuesday, August 8^th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Mariyka Shevchuk was amazed at how full the family restaurant had become, not just with the usual students and cadets, but also civilians, Witches and trainers. Even the Sukhoi flight had braved coming.

“Have you noted their Polish trainers?” asked Sergei. “Is romance melting hearts tonight?”

“Not just there. Agnieszka’s Dark Chocolate Pots de Crème were popular with everyone—”

“—I had to acknowledge our new movie poster,” said her aunt, “especially as extra supplies were delivered yesterday for the restaurant’s twelfth anniversary on Saturday.”

Dark Chocolate Pots de Creme – https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-dark-chocolate-pots-de-creme-240164

“Then that’s the crucial celebration,” said Mariyka.

Friday, August 11^th – Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeiship, Poland

Maksym Bondarenko returned a week later with a convoy of four grounded MiG-29s, which his team began unloading by the hangar of the Aviation Engineering Training Centre.

Master Engineer Anatol Krakarth glanced out and smiled, then said, “Kapitan Shevchuk hoped you’d send a few more rebuilds when you could.”

As Mariyka and some mechanics came to help, Maksym said, “I didn’t expect to find any so quickly. How soon before you needed these?”

“We’re due to finish our current rebuilds,” said Mariyka, “in ten days. On average, we can rebuild a flight of four in two months… depending on how damaged the planes are.”

“Impressive,” said Maksym, turning to Anatol. “How dependent are you on the Witches mechanics?”

“Less and less as they train cadets to replace them. We know the Witches must return to Ukraine. But how soon?” Anatol gestured towards Mariyka, “I will regret losing Kapitan Shevchuk as she’s essential to this operation.”

“I must discuss what must occur next with the commanders. However, long term I hope the School of Eagles will be involved in rebuilding Ukraine’s defence industry.”

The Witches leadership had gathered in their office with Maksym Bondarenko, who announced.

“Master Engineer Krakarth and Kapitan Shevchuk say we will have two flights of four MiG-29s by August 21^st, so we can consider the first step in returning to Airfield “Kalyniv”, and supporting Lviv’s air defence.”

“My cousin and I,” said Kalyna, “will identify the fourteen most proficient MiG-29 pilots, although not at the expense of the F-16 training program. We’ll post a list on Friday.”

Saturday, August 12^th – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Andriy Pavlenko embraced Klaudia Smolak when the major came into the restaurant with her colleague Kapitan Zuzia Czajka. Arm around Klaudia’s waist, he guided the two ladies through the crowded room to the table where his colleagues had gathered.

“Rumors of our romance are now confirmed,” said Klaudia, then sealed their relationship with a passionate kiss.

“Guess we should do the same,” said his friend Tomas, kissing Zuzia as she sat beside him.

Mariyka and Sergei finished serving every customer with champagne, then joined her aunt beside the ‘Chocolat’ poster. Agnieszka raised her glass.

“Tonight, we are pleased so many of you are here to celebrate Zvenigora Restaurant’s twelfth anniversary. Raise your glasses for another twelve years.”

After the toast she added, “Since 2011, students from the School of Eagles have been our mainstay, although now many of you are Ukrainian defenders. We wish you strength and success in the defense of your homeland. Slava Ukrayini.”

Wednesday, August 23^rd – Airfield “Kalyniv” near the Polish border.

It was dawn when the Witches of Green and Sable flights landed back at Airfield “Kalyniv” in the eight refurbished MiG-29s. Their ground crews, who had travelled ahead overnight, directed the jets into their newly fortified revetments.

In the briefing room, Maksym Bondarenko addressed the pilots and their chief mechanics.

“Air Command West welcome you back to the Lviv region. Russian attacks in west have increased recently, with greater civilian casualties. Notably on Monday, August 14^th the severe attacks included those apartments in Lviv.”

Aftermath of russia’s barbaric attack on Lviv region: at least 15 injured, 40 buildings damaged. It is a pure terrorism.

Video: Serhiy Kruk pic.twitter.com/HEpEY9DMHS
— Kira Rudik (@kiraincongress) August 15, 2023

He paused, letting his words take effect.

“We have good ground defenses, but additional air cover could prove crucial. Major Vasy Chayka’s Green Flight have the combat expertise to lead our anti-missile night patrol, but Kapitan Maryna Sobol’s Sable Wing are equipped with more advanced NATO missile. So, work to your strengths tonight. Slava Ukrayini.”

FCA 979 words

Slava Ukrayini

Apologies if I’m slow to respond to comments or struggle to visit all your posts.

Please, ensure you visit all the other writers in this challenge via:

https://writeeditpublishnow.blogspot.com

Freedom Flights – Part 10 – Inception

June 12, 2023 by Roland Clarke

As there have been several crucial events concerning Ukraine over the last month, ‘Inception’ picks up from the last outing of the Night Witches in the WEP/IWSG April Challenge.

Watch out for the next episode ‘Shaped Encounters’ due at the end of next week. Perhaps by then some of my Witches will be ready to fly in Ukraine skies again. Finally, my apologies for again running too long to make this episode work.

The current stories open with Part 1, Rainbow Firebreak, for the WEP/IWSG April: Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-a-hard-rains-a-gonna-fall/.

Part 2, Winged Woes, for the WEP/IWSG June Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/06/15/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-please-read-the-letter/

Part 3, Moonbeam Magic, for the WEP/IWSG August Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/08/17/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-moonlight-sonata/

Part 4, Winged Death, for the WEP/IWSG October Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/10/19/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-thriller/

Part 5, Soul Seeds, for the WEP/IWSG December Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/01/wep-iwsg-december-challenge-first-time-ever/

Part 6, Swords to Ploughshares, to conclude the WEP/IWSG December Challenge and close 2022: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/10/swords-to-ploughshares/

Part 8, Winds of Change https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

Part 9, Precious Relations, https://rolandclarke.com/2023/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-life-is-beautiful/

Watch out for Part 11, Shaped Encounters, the WEP/IWSG June Challenge due next week.

***

PART 10

Inception

Wednesday April 19^th– Dęblin Military Air Base, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

Mariyka was amazed at the size of the gathering drawn to the hanger used for aircraft maintenance by the Aviation Engineering Training Centre. All the squadron’s chief mechanics had realized the urgency of the situation, as had the flight leaders. The three cadets encouraged some aviation engineering students to attend, and crucially their senior trainer, Master Engineer Krakarth.

A MiG-29 Fulcrum takes off from Starokostiantyniv Air Base, Ukraine, Oct. 9 as part of the Clear Sky 2018 exercise.(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Charles Vaughn)

He turned to the students, “Our brave guests are inviting us to help them rebuild these three MiG-29s,” he gestured behind him. “They were recovered after a costly night raid near the Kherson front, when six heroic Witches gave their lives for freedom. With their resources and ours, we can ensure Ukraine has three more MiG-29s to drive the Russians out.” He gestured towards Mariyka, “I will let Kapitan Shevchuk take command of this operation.”

Daria, Maja, and Nadzieja each went and stood by a MiG as Mariyka said, “We need three teams made up of our combat trained mechanics. So, Daria with Gold Flight’s Chief mechanic, Larisa Kovalyov. Maja with Sable Flight’s Chief mechanic, Bohdana Shvets. And Nadzieja with Green Flight’s Chief mechanic, Dariya Boyko.”

Mariyka noticed the teams coming together, and added, “plus the best students.” She glanced towards Krakarth, who added, “The University will be pleased to not only supply our facilities, but this will give invaluable experience to all our aviation engineering students, especially as you intend these MiGs to be using NATO tactics and missile systems.”

Mariyka’s chief mechanic Dariya Boyko chuckled, then said, “We’ve learnt a lot about reverse engineering – even in sub-zero temperatures, albeit on Hornets. But adapting a MiG to use JDAMS missiles will be easier.”

The Chayka majors who were quietly helping allocate crew to MiG teams, nodded to each other, then said in unison, “From the present ‘mutual air denial’, we can achieve Ukrainian air supremacy… when we receive the requested air defence systems and NATO jets.”

“Of course,” said Krakath, “Some of you have managed to source the requisite jets.”

Kalyna and Vasy hurriedly whispered to Mariyka.

“Great plan,” said Mariyka. “But can Chayka Air spare more resources to train Witches?”

“Whatever it takes to drive the enemy out,” said Kalyna. “First fast-jet training for our Polish comrades and anyone who needs it. Then we train as many as we can on an F-16 or the next available NATO-compatible platform…whichever we have permission to train on.”

“Fortunately, as Chayka Air’s qualified trainers, we have the company’s authorization to train on most fourth-generation fighter aircraft. We will double check with our legal expert…my father,” said Vasy, grinning. “When we are totally covered, our hard-acquired two-seater F-16 jet trainer will be flown here.”

“Although most Ukrainian pilots want F-16s, our newest recruits liked the Gripens,” said Vasy, “as did our mechanics, which we told our Swedish contact-“

“-in that message I delivered?” asked Anzhela Havrylyuk. “Gripens would make this squadron more flexible in terms of being able to effectively operate from dispersed locations.”

“Viable solution, but long term,” said Vasy. “We mustn’t forget it though. Join us upstairs if you’re free.”

As the trio were about to leave through the rear hanger door, Kalyna turned to Mariyka.

“We know you and Master Engineer Krakarth have this in hand. Just let us know your MiG-29 rebuild teams later today. Slava Ukrayini.”

When the two Majors and Anzhela left, Mariyka and Krakarth checked they had three balanced teams, without too many experienced engineers on one.

“We ought to record their names. I’ll ask the first three cadets who volunteered, to compile lists, sir.”

“Please call me Anatol. Sir is what the cadets use.”

“Anatol then. Please keep calling me Mariyka.”

A few minutes later, she returned with three rosters, “Real initiative – already done.”

“I’m not surprised. They’re our fastest learners. But the others will soon catch up. Most of them feel threatened by the Russian invasion… and many know people dying on the front. It’s going to be difficult stopping more volunteers… especially when they have Ukrainian ancestry.”

“Like me… you realize I graduated from here. Also, the majors are Canadian-Ukrainians.”

“Explains a lot.”

Mariyka headed for the rear door. “I better deliver these rosters, and report in.”

Once her flight leader had left, Dariya Boyko asked Krakarth, “Master Engineer, are there enough MiG-29 air frames and parts to build another plane for Mariyka? It would be great if we can create a flight of MiG-29s.”

“I’ll investigate that as I suspect there could be, even on another base. We could be starting an invaluable service here.”

Despite the eight-hour time difference between Lublin and Cold Lake, the majors were still finalizing arrangements with Chayka Air. Kalyna was on phone, while Vasy was taking notes,

“Okay, so we’ll expect our two-seater F-16 trainer in five days, with an intelligence gathering stopover in Sweden.” She paused, then continued, “Polish air traffic control will need more than the pilots’ names and serial numbers …at least a secure military call sign when they reach NATO airspace, please.”

“Why the mystery, Kalyna?” asked Anzhela as Mariyka walked in. “We don’t have any pilots we’ve grounded.”

Mariyka handed the MiG repair team lists to Vasy. “Our teams are so keen we’ll have the 29s rebuilt faster than we expected. Anatol… I mean Krakarth, feels we won’t be short of volunteers to fight the Russians soon. But I wonder if enough of us speak sufficient Polish to instruct-“

“-in American cockpits,” added Kalyna.

“Luckily the University’s Foreign Languages Centre,” said Mariyka, “has extensive English Language courses with NATO and related technical jargon.”

“Would they be able to help our Ukrainian pilots who might struggle with NATO-speak on the frontlines?” asked Vasy. “Any Ukrainian troops trained on NATO equipment might expect us to use the same terms and phrases. Tanks work best with infantry and air cover that is operating on the same page.”

“I’ll go and ask the Centre as soon as you’ve finished with me.”

“Just one thing, but you need to talk to your aunt for the details. There were survivors from the Lviv restaurant bombing. We don’t know more so ask her… and if you have to move there, just ensure you report for duty regularly.”

Mariyka was tempted to run straight to the Zvenigora Restaurant, but her mission to the Foreign Languages Centre was crucial.

It proved well-timed as one of the senior NATO tutors with sufficient authority approved a special program for officers on active duty.

“This program will have its roots in past conflicts, but the innovative use of weapons means I must integrate new terminology into the program, a relatively straightforward task for me. Call it another inception requiring dinner sometime.”

Gripen taking off from a from a forest road/runway.

Meanwhile, back at the squadron’s office, Vasy and Kalyna had written all the flights on the roster board.

“We need to identify those pilots we’ve already given an advantage in adapting to F-16s through the Western jets they fly in their Flight, and doing the course in Canada,” said Kalyna, “especially where the instrumentation is in English. Or when we were the trainers in charge.”

“I remember all the Gripens were bi-lingual for the RCAF – English and French,” said Vasy. “And we were changing the French instructions to Ukrainian. Looking at all these pilots, I feel the Witches will have an advantage when we start training them on F-16s.”

Kalyna carefully wiped all the obvious names off the board leaving just the cadets.

“Even though the six cadets have been flying Gripens and have that invaluable head start, we should give them extra hours in our F-16… unless we attempt to think long-term with them and create one or two flexible deployment flights. The original Night Witches were able to deploy”

“That would be a lateral approach to encouraging Saab’s renewed interest,” said Anzhela. “And one Maksym and Air Command West could endorse.”

“We’ll update our Swedish contact and see if there’s a positive response,” said Vasy. “As for the three Polish volunteers they’ll start on the MiG-29s when they are rebuilt, but eventually they will need to be trained on our F-16.”

Vasy went back to the board and began writing as she said, “We need a MiG-29 Flight Team, which can grow as more volunteers emerge in the area. These will be the future F-16 pilots, the ones who keep the skies of Ukraine and Poland free after the peace is secured. Some will fly with us as Witches, while others will join the Polish Air Force flying F-16s and F-35s. All we can do is ensure we train them so well, they’re amongst our finest survivors.”

‘Violet Flight (MiG-29): Kapitan Mariyka Shevchuk*, Cadet Daria Jankowski, Cadet Maja Andrysiak, and Cadet Nadzieja Chlebek (4). Chief mechanic: Dariya Boyko* (until Cadet trained for role?)’

Kalyna studied the names. “Clever… Violet blends Polish and Ukrainian colors. Mariyka will be a strong leader with her three enthusiastic cadets. She would choose her faithful chief mechanic. I just wonder how the news from Lviv will impact their lives here though?”

Saturday, April 22nd – Zvenigora Restaurant, Dęblin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland

It had been three long days since Aunt Agnieszka had tearfully embraced Mariyka and told her that her mother Danuta had been killed in the bombing attack on March 4^th.

“I always believed our cellar location would protect us. Why didn’t it’?””

Her sister Sabina pulled Mariyka closer to her and their orphaned nephew Tomas’s whose mother Gaja had also died in the raid. His face was streaked with dried tears, but he was being brave.

“Our mothers are together fighting with my father, and St George. One day we’ll join them and his army of saints driving the monster out.”

Sabina smiled. “It’s faith like his that will win this war.” She paused then continued, “You know our mother never gave up… nor Aunt Gaja. When we were buried, they kept digging, creating safe zones with air pockets… until…”

She subsided in choking.

Agnieszka continued. “There was another explosion. The rescuers said a second rocket killed them but cleared a path to your sister and Tomas.”

“We were in a temporary medical shelter for over a month,” said Sabina, “before we were allowed to come here.”

“And you are all three welcome to make this home.”

“Thank you, Aunt Agnieszka.”

Together they all settled into the family routine of Zvenigora Restaurant, tinged with memories, love, and tears.

Slava Ukrayini

Lviv Fountain: Bright Emotions in the Heart of the City. Ukraine 2023

WEP/IWSG April Challenge – Life Is Beautiful

April 20, 2023 by Roland Clarke

Apologies for the delay in posting April’s WEP/IWSG Challenge. Although ‘Life Is Beautiful’ was a good fit for my ongoing Ukraine stories, I struggled to write recently, mainly for my usual excuse of declining health. Also, this piece required extra backstory and some political maneuvering – not least getting the Witches’ NATO jets out of Ukraine before any are in Ukraine for real. I hope the next episode will allow my Witches to fly in Ukraine skies again. Finally, my apologies for running too long to make this episode work.

The current stories open with Part 1, Rainbow Firebreak, for the WEP/IWSG April: Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/04/20/wep-iwsg-april-challenge-a-hard-rains-a-gonna-fall/.

Part 2, Winged Woes, for the WEP/IWSG June Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/06/15/wep-iwsg-june-challenge-please-read-the-letter/

Part 3, Moonbeam Magic, for the WEP/IWSG August Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/08/17/wep-iwsg-august-challenge-moonlight-sonata/

Part 4, Winged Death, for the WEP/IWSG October Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/10/19/wep-iwsg-october-challenge-thriller/

Part 5, Soul Seeds, for the WEP/IWSG December Challenge: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/01/wep-iwsg-december-challenge-first-time-ever/

Part 6, Swords to Ploughshares, to conclude the WEP/IWSG December Challenge and close 2022: https://rolandclarke.com/2022/12/10/swords-to-ploughshares/

Part 8, Winds of Change https://rolandclarke.com/2023/02/15/wep-iwsg-february-challenge-gone-with-the-wind/

I’m unsure what fate has waiting for my Witches. Unless I ignore reality, NATO holds the cards on when they can be deployed. However, I resolve to continue these stories until there is a just conclusion to the horrendous war.

Blurb: Night Witches find family, new friends and allies.

Precious Relations

Part 9:

Thursday February 16^th – Airfield “Kalyniv” near the Polish border

All twenty Night Witch pilots, and their ground crews crowded the briefing room. Even Kalyna and Vasy were unaware of why Maksym Bondarenko had called this emergency meeting.

“Air Command West’s intelligence believes this airfield will be targeted by Russian missile strikes… imminently,” he said. “Tuesday’s encounter with other pilots in the Lviv restaurant and further incidents indicate Russian informers in this area.”

He let the muttered shock subside.

“We cannot afford to lose this squadron or let the presence of NATO-standard jets provoke an excessive response.”

“Should we evacuate somewhere?” asked Kalyna.

“All essential elements should leave as speedily as possible. We have arranged with the Polish Air Force University in Deblin to relocate the squadron there. Arrangements have also been made for the 2022 Night Witches to train in Polish air space with other NATO air units, until the squadron is needed.”

“So, who remains?” asked Vasy.

Maksym produced a modified ground plan for the airfield. “We have a team who will create wooden dummy Soviet-style planes in camouflaged revetments here. Other jets will fly in and out giving the impression of activity.”

“While the full squadron trains in Poland,” said Kalyna. “And I recommend we take our three crashed MiG 29s to rebuild.”

“We can begin the evacuation tonight commencing with all five flights,” said Vasy. “Please don’t see this as any more than a tactical withdrawal while building on our training. In fact, this confuses the enemy—”

“And gives them another fake victory over wooden targets,” added Maksym, waving them to the exits.

As the squadron left the briefing, Mariyka Shevchuk tried to suppress her conflicting emotions knowing she couldn’t tell those she loved why she was leaving again. Yet she had connections to Deblin, so tears formed.

Her friend and Chief mechanic, Dariya Boyko said, “We’ll return soon, I’m sure.”

“We will. But Deblin is where I trained.”

But fear tore at her. Was Sergei suspected of spying? But how as a prisoner?

The five flights left their home base in darkness, taking a circuitous route to confuse unfriendly observers.

Shortly afterwards the ground crew made the five-hour truck journey to Deblin. Just a skeleton detachment remained to assist with camouflaging the base.

Thursday, March 2^nd – Deblin Military Air Base, Lublin, Poland

The two Chaka Majors had requested their flight commanders come up to their tiny makeshift office. It was best the University had found for them, overlooking the revetments where their precious twenty jets were parked.

“We’ve been here two weeks,” said Kalyna. “And from your reports, all our pilots have mastered the NATO jets they were assigned with. Next, we must fly more mock combat missions against Polish Air Force MiG 29s… except unannounced. If there are no questions, have any of you anything to report?”

No one spoke, so Kapitan Anzhela Havrylyuk stepped forward. “As our appointed Recruitment Officer, Colonel Bondarenko advised me there may be fewer volunteer from within Ukraine, so I should look here—”

“—among the refugees?” asked Vasy, “Or the students?

“Both as we must prepare to cover losses in the next counter-offensive. I’m focusing on refugees as Mariyka is our Student Liaison. Anyway, I might have found a couple of refugees, but training will be an issue. I told them how to get in touch.”

Kalyna thanked Anzhela, “Good start. Even if they require basic training, we will need cadets in peacetime. How are the students reacting to our presence, Kapitan Shevchuk?”

Mariyka answered. “At first, curious about our all-women squadron. A small group always gathers when I’m trying to eat in the canteen. Being a graduate from here helps… and half-Polish.”

“I’m sure you’re careful what you say,” said Kalyna. “There are issues we cannot discuss – even with our allies.”

Mariyka nodded. “Like why we have NATO jets. And why we are here. Being a Polish speaker, I can detect when anyone is too inquisitive. However, overall, they welcome us. There are two or three female cadets who wish they could fight the Russians now.”

The Chayka majors consulted each other, then Kalyna said, “If they are mature cadets, close to getting their wings, they may prove suitable recruits… if they’re serious. Find out more, and we’ll talk with their instructors and the Commandant.”

“I will arrange to talk to them somewhere off-campus and find out more about them. Anzhela, should join us.”

“Good idea. Keep us updated,” said Vasy. “Kapitan Sobol, you have a report from Kalyniv Field.”

Maryna stepped forwards. “As ordered, Sable Flight has been flying night patrols in Polish airspace near our homebase. We were joined by a flight of M-346 advanced jet trainers from here, flown by their best cadets. During this joint exercise, we observed signs of damage at Kalyniv. Rather than endanger the training flight, I requested a ground unit operating a drone to assess what the Russians had destroyed.”

As Maryna handed over the footage, she added, “If we had stayed, the Night Witches would have been crippled,”

Saturday, March 4^th – Deblin Military Air Base, Lublin, Poland

Mariyka fought back the tears as she gazed across the runway in the direction of Lviv… towards home… everyone she loved. Who had the missile buried?

“We’re so sorry to tell you like this,” said Kalyna.

“There is still hope for everyone,” added Vasy. “The rescuers will keep working through the night… and we’ll keep you informed. Have you comrades you can be with?”

“Anzhela and I were planning to spend time with those three Polish cadets. But—”

“Go as planned. Is there somewhere special you went as a cadet?”

“Too special… my aunt has a mirror restaurant. But she doesn’t know I’m here—”

“Then you need to be there for her tonight. Tell her everything you can. An ideal test for your cadets too.”

Zvenigora Restaurant, Deblin

Too many echoes of her buried home… Mariyka shivered, but she forced herself down into the identical cellar restaurant as Lviv.

“Larisa and I are here for you, sister,” said Anzhela. “Observe and learn, cadets. Repeat nothing unless we instruct you to.’

A tall woman left the bar and rushed over to Mariyka. They embraced, tears flowing.

“What brings you here, my special niece. Although your uniforms—” She paused seeing the cadets. “I remember you graduating in that Polish academy uniform – I was so proud.”

Her tears returned, and Mariyka knew she must give the terrible news.

“Aunt Agnieszka, the tragedy is not official yet, but—”

“I already heard, Mariyka. Family grapevine. We will mourn my sister Danuta and the others. But at the right moment as we have done since the Warsaw Ghetto. First, we celebrate life’s beauty. Please eat with us… when you have introduced your friends.”

“This is a 2022 Night Witches Squadron sister, Kapitan Anzhela Havrylyuk and her partner, Larisa Kovalyov.”

Anzhela presented the Polish cadets, “This trio, Daria Jankowski, Maja Andrysiak, and Nadzieja Chlebek, are due to graduate from the University… from ‘The School of the Eagles’. Bravely, they wish to fight the Russians, so we are advising them.”

Agnieszka bowed to them all in turn, then led them to a private table.

“Welcome, Enjoy a family meal with us.”

After a Jewish blessing, they were treated to Cheese Lokshen Kugel.

Observing the movie poster for ‘Life is Beautiful’ on the wall, Anzhela said, “That was an emotional film. Excuse me for asking, Agnieszka, but you mentioned the Warsaw Ghetto. Did you—” t

“Lose family during the Holocaust. Our Jewish grandmother died in Warsaw ghetto, as did many of her friends later. They will never be forgotten. I’m sure there are others here who lost ancestors.”

Daria and Maja nodded and closed teary eyes.

Nadzieja glanced around the table, then said, “Genocide continues, though not on that scale. My Ukrainian grandmother tries to ensure we don’t forget Stalin’s attempted ethnic cleansing – the Holodomor, the man-made famine in Soviet Ukraine, when millions died.”

“And now Putin talks of more genocide,” said Mariyka. “Together we must stop him.”

FCA 1354 words