
13 - Chain of Command
Chapter Thirteen. Chain of Command. He helped her up, leading her toward a section of the room that had been curtained off. Drawing back the heavy fabric revealed a space designed to look like an executive office — polished wood desk, leather chair, bookshelves, even a window with a view of the hangar (which Ana realized was actually a high-definition screen displaying a live feed). “In this scenario,” Zee explained, “you’re a junior engineer who has made a critical error that could jeopardize the entire Vector project. You’ve been called to my office to explain yourself and to accept whatever disciplinary action I deem appropriate.” He moved to the desk, sitting in the leather chair with an air of authority. “I expect complete submission — both verbal and physical. You’ll address me as ‘Sir,’ follow all instructions without question, and accept punishment without resistance.” The scenario sent a thrill through Ana. As a junior professional herself, she understood the dynamics of workplace hierarchy. The idea of submitting to Zee in this context — playing a version of herself but pushed to extremes — was both terrifying and exciting. “Do you understand your role?” Zee asked, his expression stern. “Yes, Sir,” Ana replied, already falling into character. “Good,” Zee nodded, picking up a tablet from the desk. “Now, the scenario begins. You will knock on the door, wait for permission to enter, then present yourself for evaluation.” Ana stepped back, closing the curtained doorway. Taking a deep breath, she centered herself, preparing to fully embody the role. Then she knocked — three firm raps on the doorframe. “Enter,” Zee’s voice came from inside, sharp and authoritative. Ana pushed aside the curtain, stepping into the makeshift office. She kept her eyes downcast, her posture deferential as she approached the desk. “You requested my presence, Sir?” she asked, her voice appropriately submissive. Zee looked up from the tablet, his expression cold and unforgiving. “I did. Do you have any explanation for the errors in the fuel system calculations? Errors that could have resulted in catastrophic failure during flight testing?” “I... I don’t know what happened, Sir,” Ana stammered, playing her part perfectly. “I must have made a mistake in the transfer of data. I take full responsibility.” “Full responsibility?” Zee repeated, standing and moving around the desk to stand before her. “Do you have any idea what’s at stake here? The years of research, the millions invested, the lives that could be lost due to your carelessness?” “No, Sir,” Ana whispered, flinching at the harshness in his tone. “Bend over the desk,” Zee commanded, indicating the polished wooden surface with a sharp gesture. “Hands flat, palms down. We’re going to begin your disciplinary evaluation.” Ana complied, positioning herself as instructed, her hands flat on the cool wood, her body bent at the waist. The position stretched her back and buttocks, making her feel both vulnerable and exposed. Zee circled her slowly, like a predator examining prey. “The first phase of your evaluation will determine your pain threshold. This will help me understand how much discipline you can withstand.” He opened a desk drawer, removing a wooden paddle with holes drilled through it — a design Ana recognized would minimize air resistance and increase impact intensity. The sight sent a thrill through her, equal parts fear and anticipation. “Count each stroke,” Zee instructed, taking position behind her. “If you miss a number, we’ll start over. Understood?” “Yes, Sir,” Ana breathed, bracing herself. The first strike caught her by surprise despite her preparation. The paddle connected with her buttocks with a sharp crack that echoed in the quiet room. Pain flared, immediate and intense, followed by a spreading warmth that was somehow pleasurable. “One,” Ana gasped, her fingers curling against the desk.