“National Marine Research Division, under the Department of Coastal Affairs,” Katherine replied smoothly. “We’re doing seasonal monitoring, and your location aligns with our tracking corridor. If you’ll allow us one hour aboard, we can complete our readings. Your cooperation would be documented and greatly appreciated by the department.”
The captain narrowed his eyes, still hesitant. “We didn’t get any notice about any readings,” he said, voice low. “You weren’t scheduled.” Katherine smiled, careful not to overplay it. “We’re the mobile team, sir. We follow where the data takes us. With just an hour, we’ll be out of your way.”