Empyrean Desires (Closed for: The Apparition & MistressAthena)

"What is it that you want me to say, exactly?"

The brash pilot smirked as he slowed his pace, eventually coming to a halt, his cool green eyes staring to the young male with the videocamera. He tilted his head slightly, idly sratching the back of his head and smoothing out his light brown hair before folding his arms acrossed his chest, covering up the tag stitched onto the left breast of his jumpsuit that read:

"Capt. Travis Eugene Sloan
Cerian 98th tactical f squad"

He was wearing a standard, dark grey Cerian flight suit with identification tag on the left breast and his country's emblem on the right shoulder - blue and white horizontal bars for the background with a silver coiled snake, in the center. The jumpsuit could be zipped all the way up to the top of his neck, but Sloan preferred to wear it loose, flapped down on his chest to expose a tanktop that was lighter in color. Sometimes, he would even just zip the top down to his waist, allowing it to simply drape down. Today, he wore it in the former position.

"Well, you were a P.O.W of the war for quite a while there, Sir," said the young man behind the videocamera. He wore a neatly pressed uniform of green, complete with the Arisean military media emblem on his right breast, identification on the left. The Arisea emblem on his right shoulder had a golden background with five-clustered crimson stars on the upper left corner, and a crimson silhouette of an eagle in flight in the center. Since the base housed everybody from the three allied nations of Arisea, Radea and Ceria, it wasn't uncommon to see interaction of every sort. Captain Sloan took a brief moment to consider the young man's query before speaking.

"It took me away from just two things, Lieutenant. My flying and a special somebody..."

That "special somebody" was who he was now going to see after a long time away from her. 'Curse those mechanics for not maintaining my squad's aircraft as well as they do hers', he often thought to himself - even in light of being captured. She was even in the air squad that made the initial bombing run of the camp he was held at, the sound of her MiG-1.44's engines bringing music to his ears as Odenntaam 'Grabacr' elite soldiers scrambled to find cover or fight back. Travis was eventually rescued from a Radean special forces helicopter, that MiG-1.44 making a few passes to watch as the P.O.W.s were loaded into the rescue chopper.

The young man didn't even respond, but merely grinned, as he knew just who the Captain was speaking of. Practically everybody on base knew of the two Captains - but for some reason, the two never completely made it public that they were romantically involved. The lieutenant continued to follow Sloan as he finally continued on down the barracks hall, that eventually led to the pilots' lounge. There was to be a small gathering between the pilots, a 'welcome back' party of sorts for Captain Sloan and the two remaining wingmen of his squad.

Once the Captain entered the large room, several people began to applaud, a few flashes of cameras following. Travis could only muster a sheepish smile while looking into the crowd - he could see his two wingmen, one with his arm in a sling. Sloan gave the two men a respectful nod, gently beating his sternum with his fist and extending it toward them, they did the same.

His smile slowly faded as the woman he was searching for couldn't be found within the crowd. However, something told him to look behind him, as she always had a way of sneaking up on him.

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OOC:

Empyrean Desires OOC reference page

A big thank you again to MistressAthena, and I ask for readers to restrict questions/comments to PM or the OOC page. Thank you!

Radea was home to Captain Jane "Janey" Calloway. Her call sign "Sable" was known throught the allied forces of Arisea, Radea and Ceria. She was a pilot that took high risks and pulled off "impossible" missions. Her superiors were often annoyed at her for disobeying orders. But, when she did disobey it was for a good reason and always had a positive result. She had been commended often for pulling off the impossible even if she did disobey orders.

The latest example of this was when she heard her one true love had been captured by the enemy along with other people. She immediately requested rescue permission. But, it was not granted. The mission was said to be impossible and that his own country's force should handle it anyway. Jane immediately asked for transfer and to her suprise got it easily. And since she would still be within the allied force, she was allowed to keep the same airplane she had been using for so long.

The very next morning she flew to the allied base and obtained her new uniform. Jane did not want to waste time eating. But, she knew if she tried to fly on an empty stomach she would get sick. Especially the type of flying she knew she'd have to do. She quickly ate and rushed out to the aircraft but she found two higher ranked officers standing by her aircraft. As she approached one of them said, "We can't let you do this. This is a suicide mission. You will be alone out there."

Jane squinted her eyes and stepped up to him with her nose almost touching his, "Don't stand in my way, old man. Surely you know who I am. I am Sable! I pull off the impossible missions. Get out of my way." The other officer sighed, "Come now. There is no need for hostilities." Jane looked to him now, "Hostilities?! One of our people are being held as a POW! That seems pretty hostile to me!" By now she was drawing a crowd of other pilots. She continued, "I know I will be alone out there!" She looked around at the other pilots with disdain, "None of these other pilots have the courage within them to help save Captain Sloan and the others from the clutches of our enemy!"

Jane knew how to rile men up. What she had done was challenge their courage. This resulted in 6 men stepping forward and volunteering. Jane looked back to the first officer, "Well, looks like I am not the only one with courage after all. Now, do you have the courage to let us go even though you risk us not coming back?" The officer looked defeated, "Fine! Go! All of you!" He huffed and shook his head. The second officer smiled with a face that reflected much respect as he follwed the other officer.

The rescue group cheered and they all rushed off to their aircraft. Jane and 5 of them were fighter pilots. The sixth man flew a helicopter. He would be the actual one to transport Captain Sloan and the others upon rescue. She ordered him to stay behind at a safe distance and only fly in when she ordered him to.

Her squadron hit the enemy fast and hard. The turrets were the first to go. Then the vehicles. Then, to her surprise another squadron came in behind hers. They assaulted the enemy base now too. The fire stopped for a few moments as the helicopted was ordered to speak to the enemy through a loud speaker, "Release the POWs or this whole base will be leveled and no one will be left alive." The POWs were quickly allowed to exit the building they were being housed in. Jane did another sweep and looked down below. She smiled as she saw the one she had really come to rescue was still alive.

Now, there was a party to welcome the POWs home. Jane stood alone in a corner thinking of the mission and of course- HIM. When the people cheered she rushed off to the restroom and looked in the mirror. She slicked back her black hair and made sure her uniform was straight. She smiled into the mirror and exhaled. She had seen him a million times. But, each time she always felt like a nervous school girl. She turned and hurried out of the restroom.

She snuck around the crowd to behind him. When he turned around she said, "Boo!" And then grabbed him into a hug, "I am so glad you are safe!" At that moment she didn't care who was looking. She just had to get her arms around him. But the hug was quick and she smiled up to him when she ended the hug. Her blue eyes were watery as she fought off tears, "Welcome Home!"

Acting on instinct, he turned on his heel and just like that, his smile reappeared though it didn't appear as though he were embarassed - but rather estatic.

"Boo!"

She often was playful in public with him, as her demeanor indicated before she embraced him in a loving hold.

"I am so glad you are safe! Welcome Home!"

Breaking off their embrace for the moment, Janey had looked up to Travis with those alluring blue eyes, the emotional reunion clearly was getting to her as she fought off the tears. With a smile he slid his hands around her head as to cradle it, before leaning into her and giving her a passionate kiss. Laughter, applause and juvenile "Ooo"s and "Ahh"s erupted from the crowd as everybody witnessed their love - that was taken a step further.
He blocked out the noise as he slowly pulled away from her, his lips still curled into a smile before speaking in a hushed tone.

"I have you to thank.."

Sloan took a hand up to her eyes, brushing away a few tears that had actually mustered up before they streaked down her cheeks. He began laughing himself as he looked into her eyes, he almost hadn't noticed her new uniform until the crowd began to break as people socialized with one another. His eyes looked over her body, his smile widening.

"When did you change units? Don't tell me you quit flying after that rescue mission!"

They eventually were seated with Sloan's remaining squad, Second Lieutenant "Hog" Hodgins (who had his arm in the sling) and First Lieutenant "Quincy" Taylor, where Hog was talking up a storm with the rest of the party. Sloan was rather quiet throughout the evening, but he was happy as Janey sat next to him.

"So Hog, you gotta tell me... what was it like as a POW," asked the young Arisean military journalist from earlier.

"Oh, you know... sit around, do nothing - get my arm broken." The crowd erupted in laughter at the young pilot of 23 years before he continued. "And off the record, I'd just like to say once my arm heals, I'm back in the air to kick some Borrta and Odenntaam ass! Ain't that right, Cap'n?" He gently prodded at Travis, who seemed more concerned holding onto what he felt for the past few months that he was going to lose. His green eyes looked up at "Hog" and simply smiled, giving him a gentle nod.

Quincy was the rather quiet one of the squad, but he spoke up in a somber tone, "Yeah, for Ion and Eon..." A silence seemed to fill the room as one by one they all lifted their drinks, saying "Hear, hear!" until Hog gently nudged Quincy, "Man, you certainly know how to kill a party!" A little laughter came from all, even from Quincy as everybody continued with the party.
Leaning closer to Janey, Travis spoke into her ear.

"Hey, you busy tomorrow? I say we warm up a bit in the air... unless you want to do something else?"

He flashed a mischiveous grin as he prodded her with hand.

Jane leaned into the kiss and for a moment forgot they were alone. When the kiss was broken her cheeks flushed as the others took full note of the show of affection. When thanked her for the rescue she exhaled and chuckled softly. The touch of his hand on her face made her feel week as she exhaled saftly and closed her eyes for a moment. She opened her eyes and their eyes locked for a few moments and Jane felt her insides go to mush. When he finally noticed her uniform she laughed, "Me? Stop flying?! Never!"

Jane had met some of his squadrom in the past. So, she immediately recognized a few of the faces. She led Travis over to their table and they sat with them. There seemed to be some inside joke that she was missing. She just smiled on as they were all attempting to be joyous. She noticed Travis was being rather quiet. She felt concerned for him. Yet, she knew beng a POW had to of been traumatic. Jane just hoped nothing too horrible was done to him. The fact that one of them received a broken arm was bad enough. Jane knew that torture is not always physical. She decided to speak with him more about at another time. Maybe in a few days.

He flashed a mischiveous grin and asked, "Hey, you busy tomorrow? I say we warm up a bit in the air... unless you want to do something else?" Jane flushed as she knew very well what he meant by "do something else". They had never actually done that "something else". But, Jane thought of it often. When he was held as a POW she realized host how much she truly loved this man. Jane was now willing to make love with him. But, she decided that she would not tell him. She would just wait until the time was right and give in to him. Jane knew it would be a big surprise to him. They had often came close but she always backed away.

She cleared her throat, "Taking to the skies sounds great to me, Travis. Phantom and Sable dog fighting once again. Should prove entertaining to the others." She then giggled, "Unless you are afraid to face the great Sable of course." Jane was trying to rile him up. And she had said it loud enough for the others to hear at the table. A unified dawn out, "Ohhhhhh...." was heard as the men looked to Travis with laughter in their eyes. They knew Travis was playfully being called out. Then they began to chant, "Dog Fight! Dog Fight! Dog Fight!" Their would be no firing of amunition so the only danger was one of them recieving a wounded ego. Who ever got 2 of three locks first on the other's craft would be the winner.

The clearing of her throat aroused the suspicion in him that she was going to play hard to get, as she always did to him, it was just one of those qualities he loved about her - she gave him a worthy chase that provided for a good time.

"Taking to the skies sounds great to me, Travis. Phantom and Sable dog fighting once again. Should prove entertaining to the others."

A grin flashed upon his face as he looked down to her, his arm wrapped around her shoulder. Her own mischiveous giggle made his grin slightly fade, though he continued to smile.

"Unless you are afraid to face the great Sable of course."

Travis winced, though playfully as he began to laugh. Her challenge drawing a reaction from the people around them, the people that hadn't heard leaning in to listen as people began to whisper into one another's ear. As Sloan hesitated, the crowd eventually began to chant "Dog fight" repeatedly until he gave the response that all were hoping for.

"I might be a little rusty.." he started, leaning against the back of the chair, hoping to give her a false sense of security for when they would have their mock-dogfight early tomorrow. "..But you're on, missy!"

The crowd erupted with cheers and applause of approval, Hog stood from his chair and held his uninjured arm in the air. "Alright place your bets here! I got my bets on Sable!" Travis could only laugh before he leaned forward to give his wingman a slight jab in the side while many of the other officers began to form around the young lieutenant. "What's this? Why aren't you supporting your captain like you should?"

Even Quincy got in on the action, betting against his captain, yet at the end of the betting, Phantom was predicted to take Sable 2-1. Travis knew it was all in good fun, but nobody took dogfighting - mock or not - as seriously as he. Especially now, after he and his squad were shot down over Haakoon Ocean and taken prisoner. That event was still fresh in his mind, he was sure it was for Hog and Quincy.
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The squad was never really questioned for intelligence, but merely kept guard to draw the numbers of the allied nations down - especially ones in the air force. The battle which the Cerian 98th tactical fighter squad - affectionately known as "Skyfox" - was involved in was a surprise attack, radar was jammed by enemy AWACS, communication was also temporarily disabled by the enemy so they could not radio in for backup. Skyfox's squadron of five F/A-18C 'Hornet's were outnumbered three to one in that battle, and lasted for a mere three minutes.

Phantom's aircraft was badly damaged by enemy gunfire in the initial surprise assault, crippling one of his engines. First Lieutenant Sam 'Ion' Davis was lost when he attempted to lose the SU-35s on his tail by nosediving to the ocean - he was unable to pull up in time. Airman First Class Brian 'Eon' Davis (no relation to 'Ion', though was given a similar callsign because of the similarity), who had been brought into the squad a few weeks earlier, was blasted by missile impact.

Smoke trailed the captain in the final moment - drawing more enemy fire around him like a moth to the flame - before he finally ejected. Quincy could have escaped, hadn't his engines stalled out - forcing him to eject to evade a fiery death that his aircraft received. Hog was it by a missile - the impact sending his flight stick jerking in several directions in sudden movements, breaking his arm - but he still managed to fly for only a few more seconds before he promptly ejected as well.
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The crowd eventually died down as the evening wore on, though Travis simply wanted to stay with Jane for a while longer - even as she began to yawn continually, barely keeping her eyes open. He sighed softly through his nostrils, looking down to his weary love.

"Hey, I guess we'd better get some rest if we're to have that dogfight, huh?"

Jane laughed loudly as the chanting errupted. But when her challenge was accepted she kissed him on the cheek and lifted her glass of beer up high and released a hearty, "Yeah! It's on!"

As the night went on she stayed by his side. When she wasn't in the air all she wanted to do was stay by his side. She felt like that is where she belonged. Though she played hard to get at times, there was no one else for her. He was always on her mind.

When the night was wrapping up and she continued to yawn, he took notice of her fatigue. Then he mentioned rest. Jane giggled and said, "Yeah. I know I'll need all my wits about me when I face you tommorow in the air." She leaned to him and gave him a soft kiss on the lips, "Escort me to my quarters, Captain Sloan. You know a girl shouldn't wander about alone so late at night." Jane was probably as capable as any man to take care of herself. But, it was a good excuse to spend a bit more time with Travis.

"Escort me to my quarters, Captain Sloan. You know a girl shouldn't wander about alone so late at night."

A grin flashed upon his face as Travis gave her a gentle nod, taking her hand into his own before rising from his seat. "Sure thing, Captain Calloway." Sloan took notice of his youngest wingman asleep on the table next to them, a bit of drool forming on his chin. He couldn't help but laugh, then gave him a nudge with his boot to Hog's thigh. "Wakie, wakie, Lieutenant. You'd best get to your quarters instead of sleeping in here."

The lieutenant groaned momentarily as he allowed his eyes to adjust in the light, before wiping the drool from his chin, then stretched. With a few blinks, he looked to the two, "Hey... what time is it..."

"2314. We need our rest for our exercises tomorrow.. well, except for you anyway." He chuckled as he indicated Hog's arm on the mend, then put his arm around Janey's waist. "Well, I'm gonna take her to her quarters - you'd better be at ours when I get back." Still visibly trying to ward off falling asleep again right then and there, he gave the captain a limp salute before slowly standing from his seat. "Aye, sir."

The two captains then made their way to Jane's crew quarters. "I can't believe that kid sometimes... gets shot down with his squad, gets a broken arm and torn muscles in his shoulder from it, then is held prisoner of war for a few months - and he still acts as though he's fresh out of the academy!" Her quarters weren't that far, but they took their time walking and talking as he looked over her uniform again. "So what unit are you in again? Are you still with the Radean air force?"

Jane smiled as she realized she hadn't told him about the new unit for her. She leaned against the door to her quarters and looked up to him, "Well. You are going to love this. I am the new Captain of the Cerian 97th Rescue squad. Don't you just love it? Sable to the rescue of downed or captured soldiers. I will miss being a part of a tactical squad. But, the only way I could come save you was to accept this transfer." She leaned up and kissed his cheek. She then looked deep into his eyes, "But, I would make the same sacrifice again if it meant...." She exhaled nervously, "....if it meant saving you."

Jane truly loved this man. Yet, it frightened her to think he may know just how much. She tried to change the serious mood by patting him on the should and kidding him. With a chuckle she said, "Must be embarrissing to be saved by a girl, huh?"

"Well. You are going to love this. I am the new Captain of the Cerian 97th Rescue squad. Don't you just love it? Sable to the rescue of downed or captured soldiers. I will miss being a part of a tactical squad. But, the only way I could come save you was to accept this transfer."

Arching his brow as he came to a halt in front of her designated quarters, Travis gave her an almost blank expression... rescue squadron? It almost hadn't clicked that she even said the Cerian rescue squad! Her soft lips touched his cheek after he finally mustered a smile, until her eyes then looked deep into his own as if attempting to say what she wanted without actually having to say it.

"But, I would make the same sacrifice again if it meant...if it meant saving you."

Her demeanor changed, after a brief moment of silence between the two, with a pat on the shoulder and a chuckle.

"Must be embarassing to be saved by a girl, huh?"

He couldn't help but laugh at that as he adjusted his position against the doorway.

"There isn't anything all too embarassing about being rescued by you - it would be being shot down by you! ..Speaking of which, now I know the 97th has been looking for a good captain - but I wouldn't think Radea would dare want to lose one of their top aces.. Guess the top brass just felt they couldn't stop you, huh?"

He brought his left arm up, as he looked to his wristwatch and turned on a glow to indicate what the time was. Those green eyes of his widening in surprise.

"Wow... 0013 already? We're both going to be tired for tomorrow's exercises, that's for sure. Just don't you go using that as an excuse on me for you not showing up!

A playful grin flashed upon his face as he stepped away from the doorway, leaning close to her. Gently grasping her chin, he leaned even closer as he placed a kiss upon her lips.

"I'll see you tomorrow - err... today?"
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The next morning, all was as quiet until early morning exercises began around 7 AM. Captain Sloan reported to Hangar bay Delta 7C at 0815 where a compliment of around 6 MiG-21-93 'sparring/training' aircraft awaited. He eyed one in the first row, the tail fins emblazoned with two golden falling stars and a red triangular shape behind them. Then stepping up the small ladder on the side of the aircraft, he looked into the cockpit, his breath beginning to quicken - it was getting exciting, the thought of going up into the skies, again.

He stepped down from the jet, and eyed them all again before turning to watch a YF-23A 'Black Widow' taxi on down the runway for takeoff. With a sigh, inhaling the beautiful scent of jet fuel, rubber and the fresh air mixed in there somewhere, Travis started toward the Delta 7C briefing building, behind the hangars. There, he would meet with Janey and receive the standard briefing that their bout was merely a training exercise - no live ammunition - and most importantly, to be careful.

It was empty when he stepped into the briefing room, the lights were on, chairs empty. After all, it was only 0835 now, and they weren't scheduled to take to the skies until 0915.

Janey made her way to the briefing room to find Travis already there. She smiled to him and chuckled, "You seem ready for our little dog fight. I thought perhaps you'd chicken out." She looked around and stepped close to him. As she looked up to him she had mischief in her eyes, "Let's take this up a notch with a little wager. If I win you will treat me to a dinner and movie. If you win, you can stay the night with me. What happens during that night is another story." She winked up to him, "But, who knows what may happen." She heard others approaching and turned on her heels. She sat in a chair to the front of the room as most Captains do. She looked over her shoulder to Travis one more time and winked to him.

Soon those in her unit filled in behind her and most of them greeted her, "Good morning, Captain." She looked over her shoulder each time and simply replied, "Thanks. You too." Being new to this unit she didn't really know the guys of her unit. But, so far they seemed polite enough. When it was time for the briefing to start she glanced over to Travis and the guys of his unit that were filled in behind him. She then looked back to the front.

"You seem ready for our little dog fight. I thought perhaps you'd chicken out."

With his back to the entrance, he immediately recognized the voice, a smile growing on his lips as he shook his head. He knew it just as many others did, including herself, that she excelled in calling out on an individual's integrity - it's what motivated, and exposed weaknesses. Turning on his feet, he looked to her with bright eyes. Travis had learned by now not to let her rattle his cage, but there were always exceptions...

"Ah you should me better by now, Captain. I never back down from a challenge."

He flashed a grin as she approached him.

"Let's take this up a notch with a little wager. If I win you will treat me to a dinner and movie. If you win, you can stay the night with me. What happens during that night is another story."

...This was one exception that forced his grin to quickly fade. It was bad enough this exercise would bruise an ego, but now there was this wager. Only on very rare occasions - when on leave - had Travis been able to spend a night with Jane. It was as if she were playing with him! If he were to win, how long would he have to wait until they were on leave again for her to hold her end of the bargain? If he were to lose, it wasn't all that difficult to arrange dinner and a movie - they could always do that - moreso now that she was in the same air force as he. Now she winked to him.

"But, who knows what may happen."

He didn't have time to respond to her wager as other officers began to pour in - mostly the crew of their two respective squadrons, and officers that would be in the tower. Janey turned to acknowledge them as they entered before she seated herself. Travis blinked for a moment or two as he watched her, until she turned to wink at him, a quiet laughter breaking his breath. The room was still particularly quiet until Hog came in, Quincy followed close behind.

The young lieutenant bursted aloud, "Captain Sloan! Man, I tell you... I'm on the mend and these people still want me to do stuff! Not that I have anything against watching you two duke it out up there."

The quieter Second Lieutenant spoke up as he went to seat himself, "Yeah, but if you'd miss this - I don't think Captain Sloan would forgive you - even if you did bet against him." He grinned toward Travis and acknowledged him with a nod and an offbalance salute as he sat down, "Sir."

Hog slapped Quincy on the back as he seated himself, "Hey! You bet against him, too!"

Travis was still standing as everybody else had seated themselves, awaiting a commanding officer to step in to brief everybody. His eyes scanned the faces of everybody, until he caught himself staring at Janey, who seemed to do just the same before turning her attention forward. A man ranked colonel - as indicated by the Cerian air insignia of two black pips with gold lining - entered the room. His voice blared out suddenly as the lights were shut off, the projector in the center of the room lighting up a wall.

"Quiet down, First Lieutenant Jansen! Let's get this done so we can get to more pressing issues than some silly mock dogfight! Captain Calloway, welcome to the Cerian Air Defense Force."

Captain Sloan quickly seated himself near the head of the room, across from Captain Calloway and the aisle that separated the two. He had heard this briefing dozens, if not hundreds of times already - it was required for the pilots to know what their objective was before taking to the skies. A requirement Travis came to know by memory, that allowed for him to tune out most of the briefing - until toward the end, he slowly began leaning toward Janey.

"You're on," he said quietly toward her. Perfect timing...

"That's about it, your MiG-21-93's are waiting," the colonel said. "Unless you've got any questions, then let's get the hell out of here and get everybody up in the skies. Remember, we're still at war here - so if anything unidentified shows up on your radar, report it immediately and RTB as you guys are unarmed."

Everybody began to rise from their seats as the lights were brought back on, Travis merely turned in his seat to face her.

"Dinner and a movie, if you win - a night over, and who knows what else, if I win," he confirmed with a grin. "See you in the air, Captain," he said toyingly as he got up from his seat, slapping at her arm with a roll of papers before starting for the exit to change into his flight suit. He casually slowed to a halt just in front the door to glance back at her, grinning with a wink of his own, before disappearing through it.

Janey could not help but giggle as Travis left the room. One of the pilots on in her unit walked next to her as she stood looking through the doorway after Travis. He was a rather handsome young man that was taller than her. She looked up to him and he looked down to her with a charming smile, "Nothing wrong with a little friendly dogfighting. I hope you win Captain. I will be rooting for you." She smiled warmly to him, "Thank you." He then said, "And welcome to our unit. Our last Captain was a very good pilot and leader. From what I have heard you are an outstanding pilot and I have heard no complaints from those who have served with you." With a hint of flirtation he said, "I look forward to serving under your command."

As he walked away Janey thought to herself, "Was he flirting with me? Other than Travis, no one has flirted with me in a long time. Surely he knows there is something between Travis and I." She exited to a restroom, relieved herself there and changed into her flight suit.

She walked to the flight deck and right to her aircraft. The markings of the country she now served were painted on to her aircraft for her. But, they did not paint over her personalized painting of a prowling panther with the name "Sable" painted under it.

The handsome pilot who spoke with her earlier was waiting by her aircraft. She smiled curiously to him, "Hello again. I didn't catch your name." He answered almost slyly, "Lt. Michaels at your service Ma'am." She giggled to him, "How old are you, Lt. Michaels?" He looked puzzled, "24, why?" She just smiled, "I was just curious." She looked around and saw Travis looking in her direction.

Janey chuckled within herself, "Let the games begin." She deicded to try and make Travis jealous in an effort to throw him off his game. This handome young pilot would serve her purpose well. So, as they chatted she leaned in just a bit more than she shoud have. She batted her eyes just a bit more than the should have. She smiled a bit more than she should have. And she laughed a bit more than she should have. It was all to get to Travis. Then she asked, "Would you like to go up with me?"

He looked shocked, "Really? I just came out here for support. I didn't expect this! Yes! I'd love to go up with you." She glanced in Travis' direction and then back to Lt. Michaels, "Ok, hop in. If you can just stay quiet and not break my concentration we will be fine." He nodded, "Yes, Ma'am. Not a peep!" He then climbed into his seat and she climbed in afterwards.

She started the plane up and settled in nicely. She exhaled, "Ahhh... I love the smell of jet fuel. And the feel of the flight stick in my hand is so intoxicating." Lt. Michaels just chuckled. When her craft was ready she spoke into the headset, "Sable, ready for flight." With laughter in her voice she asked, "Are you, Phantom?"

A small vehicle tug began to wheel out Captain Sloan's MiG from under the hangar to just aside from the runway. He followed along slowly, his helmet clutched in one hand as he made final adjustments to his flight suit. From the other side of the runway, Travis noticed Janey prepping herself as a younger gentleman from her new squadron tagged along with her. He merely smiled and shook his head as he noticed her doing everything in her power to make him jealous.

"Anything to get a win," he said to himself with a chuckle.

The tug vehicle came to a halt, one of the two men in the vehicle removing the attachment from the tug to the MiG - and placing a brake wedge on the front wheel for the time being. He gave a slight tug on his gloves while watching her still before he grabbed the small ladder that had been attached to the side of the aircraft. Once he settled himself into the cockpit, he slid the helmet over his head - adjusting the earpiece inside as one of the field crew climbed up the ladder for final inspection.

It was then that he noticed the young pilot in her squad appeared ... excited? He grabbed a spare helmet and jumped into the extra seat behind the pilot. Travis's mouth slowly gaped open before the crewmember patted his helmet, drawing him out of his daze.

"You're all ready, sir! Godspeed!"

The crewmember lowered the canopy and sealed it shut before quickly jumping down, taking the ladder with him as another rushed beneath the aircraft to remove the brake wedge as Janey's aircraft began starting up. Suddenly, her voice blared over the radio.

"Sable, ready for flight. Are you, Phantom?"

"Uh.. yeah. Yeah, Phantom here - ready for flight."

She had done it. He was comfortable in knowing that she would usually only tease him by trying to flirt with other men - but it never meant much to him. It was if she took to the skies with another man in that sort of fashion - that made him jealous. "Oh, you're going to be sorry you did that now," he thought to himself, starting up his own aircraft and clipping his breathing apparatus and communicator to his helmet.

Slowly, her aircraft began wheeling toward the runway - receiving standard takeoff orders before actually finding her way down the long road. Once she had the go, her afterburners ignited - sending her barrelling down the runway. Phantom performed similar tasks a few moments later, before he found himself soon chasing after Sable from the ground as she was already in the air and some distance away to most likely prepare herself for an offensive position.

"Phantom airborne, Sable," a voice from Tower blared over the radio. The radar was empty for a moment before suddenly a blip appeared - it was her, dead ahead. The radio remained silent for a moment again before suddenly, Tower Control executed the command: "Engage."
His voice was quiet over the radio when he spoke, and strange as it may be, it almost sounded as though he were smiling!

"You know you want me to win, Sable - so let's make this easy, huh?"

Once Janey was in the air she asked the tag-along Liuetenant, "All comfy back there?" He chuckled, "Yes Ma'am. This is going to be great!" Janey chuckled, "Kid, you have no idea what is about to happen." When she heard Travis was airborne a wicked grin apeared on her face. And then when he spoke about her wanting him to win she said, "And miss out on a free dinner? Come now, you know I like to eat especially when its' free. I hope you have saved a lot of money because I sure am hungry!" Lt. Michaels chuckled.

Looking at the blip on the radar she knew who it was. Janey tipped the flight stick and made a nose dive to the ground below. Her goal was to drop so low that she would be under radar and then she wanted to come up behind him. The pilot panicked, "What are you doing?! Pull up! Pull up!" Janey just grinned finding his fear amusing. And just to toy with him more she made the aircraft spin as it dove downward.

When she felt she was low enough under radar she leveled the plane out. They were so close to the ground that Lt. Michaels thought he could jump out and land uninjured. She followed the blip and soon began to rapidly ascensd almost striaght up. Lt. Michaels panicked again, "We're going to stall!" Now Janey was starting to get annoyed, "No we are not. Even if we do, so what. I know how to recover! Now shut up!" In a matter of seconds Janey was behind Travis, could physically see his trail end and got a lock on him. She called over the radio, "First lock! Thats' one, Phantom! I can already taste that steak!"

He knew most of her moves, but many of them were still rather unevadable - such as her patented nose dive sneak attack. She wasn't in visual range just yet, but her position was still shown on radar until suddenly - her position began to fade, nearly disappearing! It didn't help that he was flying directly into sunlight, so he raised a hand to lower his glare shield on his helmet. Travis was almost ready to radio her to ask if she was alright as her position jumped around on the radio - but he thought better of it. "She knows what she's doing," he thought to himself.

Perhaps he thought too long, for his radar spike warning began flashing on his HUD, as he looked all around him to consider her position - she popped back on radar - directly behind him! Without warning, an alarm began blaring in his ear - the HUD turning a bright red - she had the first lock.

"First lock! That's one, Phantom! I can already taste that steak!"

He cursed to himself as he raised his altitude and jammed on the airbrakes, watching as she rocketed past him - and with the flick of a thumb upon the flight stick, he switched from his guns to his missiles. A small target indicator on his HUD lit up and began tracing Sable's flight as it attempted to lock onto her radar signal. Not long afterward, the target indictator froze over her aircraft - a signal drone humming into his ear to indicate a lock. Travis immediately smiled from under his mask.

"And just like that, we're tied up. Too easy, Sable - you should have saw that one coming."

Knowing that each of them had to have a chance to get one another, he pulled back on his flight stick - the nose of his MiG raising up as his the g-forces began pulling back on his body. He reached up to 18,000 feet before leveling off - not giving her a chance to fly under the radar this time as she would have to be well above the radar in order to attain a lock on him.

"Come and get me!" he challenged her.

Sable cursed under her breath, "Damn it!" But, she acted unaffected over the radio. With laughter in her voice she said, "Well, I didn't want to embarris you too bad. So, I let you get one in. The next one will of course have to be mine however."

She flew in close and they began circling each other in the air narrowly missing the other as they fought for dominance. Their crafts twisted, turned wetn upside down.... This kind of flying at the high G's they were pulling was worse than the scariest roller coaster known to man. Their "Dog Fight" took them into a huge puff of thick white clouds. They could not see each other physically. But, when they came out the other end, Janey was right on his tail. She was sure to get the lock.

Then, the unthinkable happened. Lt. Michaels threw up. The distraction was enough to make her look over her shoulder and pull the plane up. This allowed Travis to now be behind her. When she heard the beeping she knew it was over. This time her cursing could be heard over the radio, "Damn it! Damn it! Damned rookie!" She said over her shoulder to Lt. Michaels, "What the hell?!" She lowered her plane and prepaired for landing and the certain teasing that was to come from Travis.

One more lock and he was "dead", on the other hand, she was in the same situation as he. However, after their twirling about in the great empyrean - she eventually managed herself on his rear, his radar already beginning to flash and beep in indication that he were being spiked by her radar. Travis began to breathe a little heavier as he tried something - anything - to lose her. A tap on the airbrakes, banking sharp to his left and right, even increasing speed and altitude did nothing.

Phantom was all but ready to just give it up and let her get the lock on him until her aircraft began to waver and ultimately slowed down and raise its altitude. Capitalizing on this unusual fortune, he jammed hard on the airbrakes as Sable blew by him - now he was behind her - and her voice yelling over the radio.

"Damn it! Damn it! Damned rookie!"

He smiled to himself, the kid must've lost his breakfast through all that. "Ah, leave the dogfighting to tactical squads, not rescue squads," he thought to himself. Travis thought better of himself than to tease her immediately over the radio - after all, he had won two bets. Radio chatter started up from the Tower, Hog being among one of the few voices that spoke up.

"Not bad for a pilot that's been away for a few months, huh? Even if he did make me lose some money."

That did nothing but bring a smile to Travis's face as Janey landed - all the while scolding the young lieutenant in her cockpit. He couldn't hold it in any longer, not even to wait until both of them were on the ground.

"Guess we'll find out what else will happen - what, tonight?" he let out a hearty laugh as he received his orders from tower control on which landing strip to land on.

Not long afterward, he found himself hurrying over to where Janey and her unfortunate co-pilot were awaiting the air crew to arrive with a cart to take back to debriefing. It was then that he noticed the mess the other man had made, and he couldn't help but start to smile. Stopping before her, he shifted his gear into one hand, slinging it over his shoulder.

"A deal is a deal, even if certain circumstances are unexpected, right?"

He gave the young pilot a slap on the shoulder - he sure wouldn't hear the end of it once everybody found out. Lieutenant Michaels simply nodded before turning away in clear embarassment, especially as the crew arrived, a few of them laughing. Travis leaned closer to Janey, putting his free hand on her own shoulder.

"Hey, I'll still treat you to dinner - how 'bout it?"

Janey fussed a bit at Lt. Michaels but then started feel bad for him once they landed. She knew it would be a long time if ever before he could live it down.

As she stood outside her palne she saw Travis approach with a grin. She thought to herself, "Here we go...." He said, ""A deal is a deal, even if certain circumstances are unexpected, right?" and then tapped Lt. Michaels on the shoulder. Janey grinned, "Yeah."

When Lt. Michaels turned away clearly embarrissed Travis said to her, "Hey, I'll still treat you to dinner - how 'bout it?" Janey giggled, "I knew you would. You are a great guy like that." She rubbed his arm once and said, "Can you believe he threw up? I mean I know Rescue squads may not fly like the tactical squads. But, they still have to pull of some pretty crazy maneuvers as well. I don't get it." Her eyes squinched together and she exhaled, "Oh my God. Now I understand. I rememeber his face. He was the guy who piloted the helicopter when the POWs were rescued. HE is a damn helicopter pilot! Now it makes sense!" She slapped her own forehead, "Ugh!!! I reamed him but it is really my own fault."

She exhaled again and looked up to him, "So, when do you expect to cash in your prize for winning this little dog fight?"

A grin flashed upon his face when she realized who her partner was, he had no recollection of the young man's face - his main concern at the time was to just get to that chopper and get the hell out of there.

"So, when do you expect to cash in your prize for winning this little dog fight?"

Travis sighed quietly as he looked up to the skies in thought.

"Ahh.. let's see. I'm free tonight, nothing scheduled for tomorrow unless Borr-taam attacks unexpectedly or we're suddenly launching for an attack on them."

His gaze met her own, before he let his green eyes wander down her body, a hand brushing through his hair that had been messed up by his helmet. He couldn't help but make his grin grow brighter, putting an arm around her shoulder as he led her toward the debriefing room.

"Tonight then? If you've forgotten already, I was held as a POW for so long without companionship..."

A chuckle came bursting out from within him as they stepped closer to the entrance of the building. He released his hold on her before entering, a small group had been assembled inside - the Colonel, groups of people from both squads, and other miscellaneous individuals.

"Well, well, well... I guess that little fight over the Haakoon did nothing to slow you down, Captain. Excellent job," said the Colonel along with a congratulatory handshake. "I've got nothing else to really say - both of you know what you did right and wrong. Make adjustments where you know need attention - don't want anything like Haakoon to happen again."

With a nod, the Colonel made his exit as the group assembled began forming around the two Captains.

"2-1! What'd I say," came one voice.

"Ahh... I hear Sable was distracted by 'Bones' - that's all. If he wasn't up there in the first place, she would've taken him 2-0!"

"Hey now, that's my Captain you're talking about," said Hog. "Alright, shut up now! The score was2-1 and in favor of Captain Sloan. Which, unfortunately for me - and anybody else that bet against him - means you gotta fork it over now!"

Multiple groans came from certain individuals as they began fishing for their money.

"Whether it was Bones fault or not," started one of the pilots from the rescue sqaudron, "It was still a good fight.." A few people applauded and exclaimed "Yeah!" in approval. "Too bad that'll most likely be Sable's last dogfight, right? Now that she's with rescue..."

"Now that's not necessarily true..." Travis started up. "It would be some fluke, but if the air force ever needs any aces - they may just convert the rescue squad to tactical or fighter."

He grinned to Janey and began to leave, somebody shouting out to him, "Captain! Captain Sloan! Where are you going?"

"I don't know about you boys... but I've got a date tonight!"

With that said, he flashed a grin to her along with a wink in her way before making his exit.

Janey just smiled and occassionally chuckled as "the boys" talked about what happened. When Travis walked through the door she spoke up to the others, "All I know is this base is luckto have Captain Sloan. He is a great pilot. As for Bones, I have to accept some of the blame there. When I let him tag along with me, I din't realize he is the Chopper Pilot. Had I of, I would have never taken him up. I would have know pulling those G's would have made him sick. So, go easy on him. It's actually my fault not his. Besides, I didn't have to take any up at all. I took a risk that cost me in the end. I am at fault here. Not Lt. Michaels."

Janey walked over to him and patted his shoulder, "I apologize Lt. Michaels." With laughter in her voice she said, "Accept it gracefully, it is rare that I aplogize for anything I do." He smiled to her, "Thank You. I guess I should have made sure you knew-" She shushed him, "No. I am your Captain. It is my job to know. I don't know this unit very well yet. I should not have taken you up-period. Now, let's just try to move on past this, ok?" He nodded his head, "Yes Ma'am." Janey then turned and walked to the door. She turned around and said, "Everyone in my unit..... Meet me here at 1400 hours (2:00pm) She then left the room as "the boys" chatted amongst themselves. They were still going on about everything.

She decided to check on her plane. She was glad to see someone else was cleaning up the mess. Janey decided to leave them be to do their job. She turned on her heels and decided to get some exercise in. So, she returned to her barracks and changed into her P.T (physical training) uniform. The P.T uniform consisted of the following:
black sweat pants
black sweat shirt with Alliance logo emblazoned across the chest
black Ultra Lights Boots (5" high tactical sport boot. Ultra lightweight leather bottom, nylon upper construction. Padded collar, rubber oil and slip resistant sole, fiberglass shank, non-metallic hardware and construction.)
In addition to the standard P.T uniform she wore black plastic framed sunglasses that had a brown tint to the lenses. The wearing of sunglasses during P.T was a priviledge only awarded to Captains and above.

She decided to jog up and down along a landing strip for awhile. As she jogged she thought about Travis and felt nervous yet giddy at the same time. Tonight would be the night. She had made him wait a long time. But, little did he know, he would be her first. She never told him she was a virgin. Heck, she never told anyone that. She had many close calls in her early 20's. But, she always felt too nervous about and backed away. But, now she knew she found the one that she wanted to give herself to. And she knew he loved her. He had waited so long so patiently and never even seemed to look at other women. Janey chuckled within herself, "Any man who can do that is truly in love."

After jogging for about an hour she was exhausted. So, she walked backed to her barracks and called to the office of her unit. It just so happened Lt. Michaels answered the phone. She told him, "I will be in the shower. So, if anything urgent happens, call my phone in my barracks. I can hear the phone ring from the shower. Make sure you stay in that office until I call you. If you need to take a break to relieve yourself, I suggest you get one of the people in our unit to stay by the phone for you while you are away." Lt. Michaels politely said, "Yes, Ma'am." She hung up the phone, walked into her bathroom, stripped down naked, turned on the water in the shower, adjusted the temperature and stepped into the shower. After her shower was complete she dressed into her officer's uniform (she wore pants-not a skirt) and decided to go to lunch.

After lunch she made her way to her office. Lt. Michaels jumped to attention when she entered the room. She saluted him and he saluted back and stood at-ease. ("At-Ease" means to stand with legs shoulder length apart and hands interlocked together at the samll of the back) Janey smiled to him, "Go to lunch, Michaels. e abck here at 1300 hours. Yes, that means I want you here an hour before the others. dismissed." He said, "Yes Ma'am." He then turned and left.

Janey sat at her desk and propped her feet up on the desk. She was allowing her food to digest as she relaxed. As she sat, she thought of Travis yet more.

Not long after he had made his exit from the debriefing room, "Quincy" caught up with Travis after a brief jog. First Lieutenant Taylor was actually involved with the morning's activities, though in a different training sector - he easily defeated two of his opponents, 2-1 on one, and 2-0 on the other.

"So, Captain.. what was with this little 'wager' between you and Captain Calloway that I heard some of the other guys talking about?"

Travis was still in his fatigues, though had since shed the flight suit as he was preparing himself for an off-duty activity off-base.

"Oh, not you now..." he started jokingly.
"Let's put it this way, since I won - I get to spend a pleasant evening with the captain."

"Ahh, I see. Well I guess I'll let you get ready for that then. Good luck, Travis."

Quincy shared a little laugh with Travis before he trotted off himself. The Skyfox squadron had no assignment for the remainder of the day, which left Captain Sloan with enough time to get some much needed grocery supplies for tonights dinner - at his expense, even though he did win.
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As time finally seemed to pass, Travis gathered the groceries needed to make dinner for two. He wondered how eventful the rest of Janey's day was as he stopped before her quarters. As many a male had done before a date, he lifted his arm above his head - sniffing his underarm, then lifting his collar to sniff underneath to make sure had had smelled pleasant.

With a clear of the throat in satisfaction, he then knocked on her door.

The day went pretty well. Janey made Lt. Michaels her assistant. It was explained to the other people of her unit during their meeting. She told them, "Since Lt. Michaels requires less training and flight time than the rest of us, I have made him my assistant. His duties will be expanded and explained more as we go along." She used the meeting to really learn about each person in her unit. If she was going to be their Captain, it was important to her to really know each person. No one seemed to mind.

After the meeting she returned to her quarters. Janey looked around her apartment like quarters and thought, "I guess he will be here soon." She went into her bedroom then the bathroom off of the bedroom. She took a quick shower and washed her hair. When the shower was complete she wrapped her wet hair in a towel and another towel around her body. Janey then went into her bedroom and opened up the closet. She began looking through clothes to find the perfect outfit to wear. She giggled to herself, "Well, it doesn't have to be sexy in an effort to turn him on. I already know he wants me."

She finally decided on a black knee-length silky skirt with a layer of thin dark purple lace overlayed on it. Then, she picked out a dark purple silky short sleeve shirt that buttoned up the front. She then loked down at the floor of her closet and choose a pair of black satin high heels. She assumed they were going out to eat and decided the outfit would be acceptable.

The next thing to decide on was her under clothes. Janey hoped they would finally make love on this night so, she wanted perfect lingerie instead of the normal white briefs and plain white sports bra that she wore. She didn't have musch need for lingerie, choosing comfort over over sexy. But, she did have a black lacy bra that snapped in the front and a pair of high-cut black silky panties. She thought to herself, "This will have to do." She giggled again, "I could wear granny-panties and I think he'd still want me."

She dropped the towel and began dressing. Then, she went to the bathroom and plugged up her hair dryer. The hair towel was unwrapped and draped over the towel rack. She dried her short black "bob" style hair and let it hang, framing her face. Her bright blue eyes seemed to stand out. Bronze lipstick was put on and mathcing eyeshadow. She then used black mascara on her eye lashes. This was the extent of make up. Foundation and blush was more of a nuisance to her than anything. Besides, she had flawless skin with a perfect glow to her cheeks anyway.

Just as she was reaching for perfume, she heard a knock at her door and smiled into the mirror, "That must be him." She spritzed the rosey smelling perfume on her neck and on one wrist. She rubbed the wrists together and hurried to the door. When she opened the door she immediately stepped back, "Come in, Travis." As he entered she said, "What's all that stuff you brought with you? I thought we were going out." If they were to eat at her quarters, she didn't mind. The kitchen was small but a meal could be cooked out of it. She secretly liked the prospect of not going out.

He was initially taken aback by the scent of her perfume that emanated from within her domicile, his eyes almost closing to take in such a pleasant scent - but not to be rude, he merely enjoyed the smell only long enough that his eyes noticed something else. Janey was absolutely beautiful, with what little make-up she did use, and her exquisite clothing, it completely enhanced her beauty.

"Come in, Travis."

A smile broke his face as he stepped just inside for her to close the door behind him.

"What's all that stuff you brought with you? I thought we were going out."

Shuffling the bag he held in one arm, his smile transformed into a large grin.

"This? This is dinner: Two thick steaks, mashed potatoes, some greens and bread.."

He started for the small kitchen, setting the bag full of the groceries on a countertop. He reached into the bag and produced a bottle, turning it toward her with a smile upon his face, giving her a wink.

"..And what would dinner be without some wine?"

'Chateau Navell' read the bottle, a fine chianti aged a few years in the Cerian territory of Havven - Travis's favorite whenever he would have wine, which was rare. He set the bottle down and immediately began rummaging through the bag, taking out the meat that was carefully wrapped in a paper - taking out a few potatoes and fresh green beans - and then a small baguette.

"Have a seat, my Sweet. Dinner's coming right up!"

Travis winked again at her, leaning toward her to peck a kiss on her cheek before patting her on the side of her rear. He immediately began preparing the small kitchen for his creations as he rolled up the sleeves on his soft blue button-up shirt, he was fortunate the air base provided officers with certain items and utensils. He began heating up the small grill, stove and oven, and immediately removed the steaks from their wrapping - and placed them on a plate.

He had seasoned them before arriving, the scent of spices immediately filling the kitchen as he took out the garbage bin from under her sink. The potatoes were quickly being cleaned and peeled before being thrown into a bowl with seasoning and mashed.

"I wouldn't be surprised if this is the most action this kitchen has ever seen," he teased.

A couple pots were placed on the pre-heated stove next to the heating grill, in went the ingredients for the potatoes and the same for the fresh green beans that he had cut up. The oven was also being heated up for the bread before he tossed the steaks on the grill - the immediate hiss of the meat being audible throughout Janey's quarters.

Grabbing a towel, he dabbed at the small amount of sweat that began to form on his brow and tossed it over his shoulder. The bread went into the oven to heat up as he covered the pots and turned the steaks.

Taking a moment to let the food cook, he slowly strolled out of the kitchen and watched Janey as she had seated herself at the table. Travis sighed quietly and then began setting the small table, placing placemats across each other, and then the utensils on the ends of the fabric - leaving a space for a plate. He also lit a candle on the center of the table before retreiving two wine glasses.

"Boy, I can only imagine what you would've made me done had you won!"

He did all of this to impress her, though he knew just as almost everybody on the entire base did: he didn't need to do a single thing to impress her, other than fly impressively. Though cooking a great dinner would be icing on the cake, he figured.

Another turn of the meat on the grill, and a stir of the homemade mashed potatoes and green beans - and dinner was ready. Plating the meal on two dishes, he placed them on the table and quickly dabbed at his forehead with the towel on his shoulder and tossed it aside, for now. Then he reached into the oven with mitts and sliced the bread into 3/4" slices and placed them into a basket.

"Ready for dinner?"

He brought the basket with him back out into the small area where the table was, placing it to the side of the table. Then, folding the sleeves of his shirt back out, he started toward her, indicating she have a seat at the table so he could have the honor of seating her as a gentleman would. He finally commented on her appearance, as though to not appear as though he was ignoring her.

"You look absolutely beautiful, Janey.."

Janey watched quietly as Travis cooked and prepared the meal. She just chuckled at bit at his occassional comments. Her mind was on her fear yet excitement of her first sexual experience with Travis or any man at all for that matter. Her eye, however, were on his form as he moved about the kitchen. There was something sexy about a man who cooks.

When the food was cooked, table prepared and food placed out Janey smiled to Travis, "Oh yes. I am more than ready. Everything smells so good. And you know I don't like cooking. I see between the two of us, you are the one that should always cook. Now, if you want something ordered or microwaved, I'm you gal!" She looked down at the food and back to him, "This looks delicious." She thought to herself, "I don't like greens but don't have the heart to tell him that." With that thought she decided to force herself to take at least a few bites of the greens as to not hurt his feelings. But, it took her no time to start cutting into the steak. A piece was on her fork as she looked up to Travis, "There is some steak sauce in the cabinet over the sink if you want any. I have a feeling this steak won't need it." WIth that she popped the piece in her mouth and moaned almost sensually, "Mmmmmm..... delicious." Then she tasted the potatoes and had the same reaction.

She purposely did not go for the greens yet. She sipped her wine and smiled to Travis, "Travis, I'm glad you're here. I'm glad you cooked. Thank You." She returned to food....

He had waited for her to cut into the steak and take a bite before he sampled his own cooking, watching her reaction with a smile as she continued to eat. Strange for him to notice that she seemed preoccupied with something else other than dinner, for she seemed slightly fidgety and her breathing seemed erratic, as if nervous. He decided, however, to not ask her what seemed to be on her mind - perhaps she will tell herself as the evening progresses.

"Travis, I'm glad you're here. I'm glad you cooked. Thank You."

Scooping some of the potatoes and then forking a few greens with his fork, Travis began to eat himself. He grinned at her words before wiping his mouth with a cloth napkin.

"You're quite welcome, Jane.."

He hesitated momentarily as he began cutting into his own steak, the juices already flowing out of the meat. The thought of saying more had forced the hesitation before he had decided to leave it at that, for now as he finished his cut. They ate in silence for the most part, occasionally Travis caught himself staring at her as he chewed on the last bits of his steak and following it up with a sip of his chianti.

He stared into his wineglass as he felt compelled to confess to her his feelings - this was the first time he would have admitted that he missed anybody - even of any of his former squadron members of the past that were MIA/KIA or that had been transferred out. Those that have flown with him in the great empyrean blue paled in comparison with how he had felt for this woman. It was as if the skies themselves were now merely a desire, and she had become his true love.
__________________________________________________________________

Strange, as they had actually met in the skies for only a brief moment. It was roughly 12 years ago when the country of Borrta had attempted their first world conquest. Borrta themselves were a strong power then, their air raids were devastating and required the allied states of Ceria and Radea (Arisea remained neutral in this fight) to bring in young recruits and officers for the fight.

They were both ranked airman first class when their respective countries went on the offensive - sending around 5 squadrons to disable enemy airbases. Everything was running smoothly until enemy ground fire halted the operation long enough for enemy aircraft to be launched in the air, a massive dogfight ensuing.

Phantom's captain was shot down, the second lieutenant panicked and was eventually shot down - leaving rank to Travis. He heard a female voice over the radio, her superior telling her to ease off the manuevering and cover his six.

"Skyfox 1, come in! We need cover now, damnit!"

"This is Skyfox 3," started Travis, "Skyfox 1 and 2 have been shot down, we need -"

He was cut off by her superior again, "Damnit, Radiant 4! I told you to stay in formation - now you're in trouble again!"

"Skyfox 3, I'm on it!"

Although the allied forces outnumbered Borrta's two to one, they still managed a fight - not until Travis splashed the bandit trailing 'Radiant 4' - which prompted the remaining fighters to retreat.

"Radiant 4 to Skyfox 3.." she started, his heart practically beating out of his chest upon hearing the beauty in her voice. "Thanks for the cover... I owe you one.."

He merely chuckled as his remaining squadron formed up behind him, her own squadron of 4 intact. "You fly like that and you aren't dead... you must be special," he admired over the radio. "Skyfox squadron RTB'ing, good luck in the future, Radiant squadron."
_________________________________________________________________

Upon thinking back in his memories, Travis leaned back in his chair as Janey finished up her dinner after himself, though this time, Travis was focused intently on Janey. Reaching for his wineglass, he took an idle sip before pulling it away from his lips as he confessed to her, his voice soft and full of emotion:

"I've really missed you, Janey.."