She Was Sleeping in 8A — When the Captain Asked if Any Combat Pilots Were on Board

The first officer looked terrified.

“We can’t outrage them. We’re unarmed.”

Mara’s mind raced.

“Then we don’t run,” she said firmly.

“Do you have full manual control?” she asked the captain.

“Yes—but I’ve never dealt with something like this.”

“I have.”

She slid into the co-pilot seat.

Chapter 7: The Maneuver
The mysterious aircraft continues its aggressive passes.

“They’re testing our reactions,” Mara explained. “Every time we panic, they gain control.”

Over the radio, the threatening voice returned.

“You have one minute to comply.”

Mara ignored it. Instead, she studied the radar carefully.

“They’re about to pass us again,” she said.

“When they do, I’m going to change altitude and speed unexpectedly.”

The captain looked horrified.

“This plane carries 300 passengers. We can’t perform fighter maneuvers.”