Assassin’s Revenge–A David Slaton Novel
Chapter 82: Eighty-Two
by Larsen, WardThe chapter “Eighty-Two” follows David Slaton as he executes a high-stakes ejection from a fighter jet over hostile territory. Under the dim light of a half-moon, Slaton prepares for the maneuver, guided by Commander Rhea, who confirms the timing and checks critical systems. As the jet ascends, Slaton focuses on the target—a man-made structure visible on infrared—while mentally rehearsing his post-ejection plan. Despite Rhea’s last-minute offer to abort, Slaton remains resolute, pulling the ejection handle to initiate a chaotic yet meticulously engineered escape sequence.
The ejection process is described in technical detail, emphasizing its precision despite the apparent chaos. A series of timed actions—harness retraction, oxygen activation, and canopy jettison—culminate in the rocket-propelled seat launching Slaton clear of the jet. The system stabilizes and deploys his parachute, leaving him suspended mid-air. Slaton, unaware of the engineering behind his survival, acts purely on instinct, driven by the need to save his family. The violent ejection leaves him disoriented, but the successful parachute deployment brings momentary relief as he assesses his surroundings.
Slaton’s landing is rough but survivable. He crashes into treetops, narrowly avoiding severe injury, and manages to free himself from the harness with a ten-foot drop to the ground. Meanwhile, the White House Situation Room reacts to the ejection, learning from Rhea that Slaton has deliberately bailed out near a high-value target. The president and military leaders discuss the implications, noting the imminent arrival of North Korean forces. The scene underscores the urgency and danger of Slaton’s mission, with little time to spare before the area becomes heavily contested.
The chapter concludes with Slaton regrouping after the landing. He quickly checks for injuries, discards his helmet, and prepares to move toward his objective. The narrative highlights his adaptability and determination, even as the odds stack against him. The tension builds as Slaton transitions from the ejection’s chaos to the stealthy infiltration phase, setting the stage for the next phase of his perilous mission.
FAQs
1. What are the key stages of a fighter jet ejection sequence as described in the chapter, and why is each step important?
Answer:
The ejection sequence involves a meticulously timed series of steps: First, harness and leg restraints retract to secure the occupant’s limbs, preventing flailing injuries during high-speed ejection. Next, an emergency beacon and oxygen supply activate while pitot tubes deploy to monitor airspeed. The canopy is then explosively jettisoned, followed by the seat catapulting upward on telescoping rails. Finally, a rocket motor fires to propel the seat clear of the aircraft, followed by parachute deployment. Each step is critical—limb restraint prevents trauma, the beacon aids rescue, canopy removal clears the exit path, and the rocket ensures sufficient altitude for parachute deployment (which occurs only after seat separation). This engineered precision balances survival needs with the violent physics of ejection.2. Analyze how Slaton’s preparation and adaptability are demonstrated during his parachute descent. What tactical advantages do these traits provide?
Answer:
Slaton demonstrates meticulous preparation by memorizing wind direction (10 knots from the east) and using celestial navigation (moon/planet alignment) to adjust his descent—a skill transcending modern tech. His adaptability shines when he improvises steering with non-maneuverable risers and prioritizes injury mitigation during the tree landing (protecting neck arteries, keeping legs together). These traits grant key advantages: celestial navigation ensures orientation despite GPS limitations, while his physical discipline minimizes injuries that could compromise the mission. His quick decision to release the harness rather than search for a descent line underscores mission urgency, trading minor fall risk for time savings in hostile territory.3. How does the White House Situation Room’s reaction to Slaton’s ejection reveal broader geopolitical tensions in the narrative?
Answer:
The officials’ focus on air defense deactivation and North Korean troop movements (noting the compound will become a “hornet’s nest” in 34 minutes) highlights covert operational stakes. Their surprise at Slaton’s unilateral bailout—contrasted with Rhea’s return—implies unauthorized action, suggesting interagency distrust. The DNI’s confirmation of disabled North Korean defenses underscores U.S. involvement in creating a permissive environment for Slaton’s infiltration, while the president’s pointed question to the CIA director frames the operation as high-risk deniable work. This exchange layers tension: military precision clashes with political ramifications, and allied subterfuge risks triggering open conflict if discovered.4. Evaluate the author’s use of sensory details during the ejection sequence. How do these enhance the reader’s understanding of Slaton’s experience?
Answer:
The “sensory overload” description—explosions, cannon-like acceleration, 200-mph wind, and disorienting tumbling—transforms technical ejection steps into visceral survival struggle. Contrasting this violence with sudden “peace” post-chute deployment emphasizes the sequence’s physiological whiplash. Pain is framed as “reassuringly familiar,” revealing Slaton’s combat-honed mindset: discomfort confirms survival. Darkness and muted ground shadows immerse readers in his limited visibility, while tree-landing details (pinballing limbs, harness snag) make the descent tactile. These details humanize the procedural account, emphasizing Slaton’s vulnerability despite training.5. What strategic implications arise from the discrepancy between Slaton’s planned ejection and the White House’s real-time monitoring?
Answer:
The disconnect suggests a compartmentalized operation: Slaton’s bailout appears improvised (Rhea’s “last chance to change your mind” hinting at uncertainty), while the White House monitors predefined parameters (ELT activation, air defense status). This implies Slaton may be operating beyond strict orders—his personal stake (saving family) overrides protocol. The military’s focus on Rhea’s return contrasts with Slaton’s infiltration, highlighting mission duality: plausible deniability (intact jet returning) vs. unilateral ground action. Real-time tracking also raises tension—authorities can’t intervene but must anticipate fallout, tying Slaton’s success to geopolitical timing (North Korean troops’ arrival).
Quotes
1. “To eject from a fighter jet is an act of controlled desperation. A last-ditch roll of the dice when the only alternative is death. Yet in spite of its desperate nature and apparent chaos, ejection actually relies on engineering of the highest order.”
This quote captures the paradoxical nature of ejection—a seemingly chaotic act that is meticulously engineered. It underscores the life-or-death stakes of Slaton’s mission while highlighting the precision behind military technology.
2. “David Slaton never knew any of that. He only knew that if he pulled the yellow handle, his family had a chance. So there was never any hesitation.”
This moment reveals Slaton’s unwavering resolve and personal motivation. The quote emphasizes his single-minded focus on saving his family, transcending even the terrifying reality of ejection.
3. “The ejection from Fast Eagle Two took but seconds to register in the White House Situation Room. They were already monitoring the jet’s every move…”
This quote marks a pivotal shift in perspective, showing how Slaton’s daring action reverberates through the highest levels of government. It underscores the geopolitical stakes and the tight operational coordination involved in the mission.
4. “As tree landings went, it could have been worse… The second most common setback was getting suspended by your harness fifty feet in the air. Here Slaton caught a break, although he didn’t know it right away.”
This passage demonstrates Slaton’s resilience and adaptability in extreme circumstances. The matter-of-fact tone contrasts with the life-threatening situation, highlighting the protagonist’s professionalism under pressure.