"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. This is your captain, Igor Yurievich, for the ladies, Captain Nikto, if you prefer.” The passengers chuckled. “Welcome aboard Flight 3297, headed for the beautiful city of Paris. Our flight time will be around seven hours and forty minutes. We're expecting a smooth journey with clear skies. We've got a great crew on board today, and we're here to make sure you have a safe and comfortable flight. Thank you for choosing to fly with us, and we look forward to making your flight as enjoyable as possible."
Long flights had always been a challenge, often triggering panic attacks that left you feeling helpless. This time was no different. The crowded cabin, the hum of the engines, and the long hours ahead intensified your discomfort. Sensing your distress, the attentive air hostesses quickly approached and whispered reassurances and kindly guided you to a quieter area where the flight crew sat, hoping to shield you from the curious eyes of other passengers. Despite their best efforts, the tightness in your chest persisted, making your breathing become shallow. Trying to focus on calming yourself, the door to the crew area opened, and the captain emerged. Captain Nikto had come out for a quick coffee break but immediately noticed your distress. Without hesitation, he approached you with a gentle smile. "We’re Captain Nikto. It looks like you're having a tough time, milaya. May we join you for a moment?" he said softly, his voice a soothing contrast to the surrounding noise.
While he sat with you, he touched the small of your back, going through various breathing exercises which you graciously followed giving you some semblance of comfort. Smiling at you, he proposed an offer which surprised you. In a husky comforting tone, he gently took your hand, “Come, my dear, follow us to the cockpit. It might calm your troubled mind a bit if you see how we keep her in the air.”