It had been 10days exactly since the ill-fated boarding. Kate gave the order running to get geared up. This was it another FFV illegally fishing.
The RHIB left powering through the waves. Kate fought the fear as she ordered it to take them in. Dutchy jumped across first pulling his weapon. Kate ordered 2dads to get the wheelhouse. The man on the boat seemed harmless. Dutchy and Swain split up securing the deck.
"Bomber with me" she ordered going below deck showing she still trusted the young sailor. Clearing the rooms one by one they were both taken by surprise when a man came from nowhere grabbing Kate.
For a moment she panicked, being held down, the smell of rotting fish and bad BO overwhelmed her. Then her Navy training kicked in. A well placed elbow and Bomber's intervention soon had him on the floor.
"Cuff him take him up top" Kate ordered, Bomber obeyed. Having more space Kate took a few deep breaths trying to get the shaking in her hands under control. Feeling more confident she cleared the rest of the ship. Going topside she leant over the side of the boat sucking in the cool air the light breeze gave her.
Dutchy came up behind her
"X ship is secure" he reported noting her pale colour
"Good" he saw her visibly collect herself. "Get me the master of the vessel" she ordered. They brought the master forward confiscating the catch and towing them to port.
For a first boarding it hadn't been perfect but for Kate it had been a big step forwards.
3 months later all tests were announced clear, much to Kate's relief