The story soon made headlines around the world. “Cargo Ship Raid Uncovers Exploited Workers,” read one banner. “Trapped at Sea,” said another. Questions exploded online. Who let this happen? Who knew? But the faces of the rescued told the truth—families once invisible, now standing in the open, demanding dignity.
Official statements poured in. Companies distanced themselves. Politicians made promises. But Katherine stayed focused on the people. The investigation had just begun. Hidden ports, shadowy contracts, unanswered calls—it would all come to light. But for now, the families were safe, and that’s what mattered most.
Weeks later, Katherine stood in uniform as her name was called. For her decisive leadership and bravery, she received a medal and was promoted to field operations chief. She accepted the honor quietly, thinking of Ahmed—and the others—who’d held on through darkness and shown extraordinary courage in the face of injustice.
As applause echoed around her, Katherine felt no pride—only resolve. There were still vessels uninspected, routes unchecked, systems unchallenged. What had happened aboard the Voyager wasn’t a mistake. It was a symptom. And she knew that her real work—ensuring this never happened again—was only just beginning.