Chapter 11: Shadows Beneath the Deck

AK sat in the ship's office, reviewing some reports, but his mind kept drifting back to the subtle tension he had sensed among certain crew members. He had learned long ago that the smallest details often led to the biggest discoveries.

Deciding to stretch his legs, he stepped out and made his way toward the engine control room. The ship's deep hum vibrated through the metal walls, and the rhythmic clatter of machinery filled the air. The engine room was one place where conversations were difficult—too much noise, too much distraction. But that also made it a perfect spot for discreet exchanges.

As he walked in, he noticed Third Engineer Mugilan and Fourth Engineer Ananth huddled near a control panel, appearing to check some readings. Their conversation halted the moment AK entered.

"Sir," Mugilan acknowledged, straightening slightly.

AK nodded casually. "How's the Anti healing system and Ballast water treatment system performing?"

"All good, sir. No major issues," Mugilan replied quickly.

AK glanced at the panel they were working on. It seemed like routine checks, but something in their body language felt off. Then he spotted it—Mugilan subtly shifting his foot to cover a small folded note on the grated floor.

AK smirked inwardly. He had found his lead.

Rather than calling it out, he played along. "Glad to hear. Carry on, but make sure to log everything properly."

As he turned to leave, he let his pen slip from his pocket, rolling right toward Mugilan's foot.

"Ah, my pen," AK said, stepping forward.

Mugilan hesitated for a split second before stepping back, allowing AK to retrieve it. In one smooth motion, AK picked up both the pen and the folded paper, slipping the note into his palm unnoticed.

"Thanks," AK said, flashing a small smile. "See you around."

He walked away, feeling Mugilan's uneasy gaze following him. Once out of sight, he unfolded the note and scanned its contents.

Coordinates. A time. A single word: 'Transfer.'

AK's instincts had been right—something was happening on Levi Wisdom, and now, he had proof. The only question was—what exactly were they transferring, and who else was involved?