He grunted, weighing his options. Then he turned and muttered something to a nearby worker. Moments later, a rope ladder was lowered over the edge. “Fine. One hour,” he called down. “Stay on deck. No wandering. I’ll be watching.” Katherine nodded firmly. “Understood, Captain. Thank you for your cooperation.”
As she climbed aboard, Katherine’s eyes flicked across the ship’s layout. Her team followed closely, pretending to unload gear. “We appreciate this,” she said again, her tone respectful. While the officers mimicked casual chatter, Katherine’s mind was already scanning routes, exits, and blind spots. The real operation was just beginning.