Debauched Duty

Debauched Duty Pt. 02

Debauched Duty Pt. 02

(This is Part 2 of 3 parts.)

Trevor

Tuesday morning, I'd been listening in as George and Francina Katsaros discussed their plans for the coming weeks. They decided to stay in the apartment until the crew was ready and all the changes had been made to their yacht. George had been reassuring Francina that there was plenty of time to prepare for her party. Francina seemed concerned:

"Well the party is on Saturday next week. I have already told most of my friends and as we've been to their parties, it would be rude to cancel."

"Don't worry, I'll complete my business first and then we'll have a few more girls. That should liven the party up as they'll be quite willing with their favors."

My listening was then interrupted by a call on my cell. When I answered a Massimo DiSpirito, the First Officer from the Terpsichore, began talking. He'd obviously been given my contact details from Francina. We agreed that I'd visit the Terpsichore just after lunch.

I could have left straight away, but I needed some time to think how I was going to place listening bugs in the boat. One of the problems is that steel boats make it difficult for signals to proceed beyond the hull. Maybe I could connect a listening bug to their Wi-Fi and have a Wi-Fi range extender placed somewhere to the rear of the top deck where there wasn't steel to provide interference.

I went through my crates to remind myself of what was available and then placed some small devices into my work bag for installation should an opportunity occur. I was now conscious that this was what the agency had trained me to undertake. Morris's recent email had just increased those expectations. I'd been naive to believe the assertions that my job involved no risk.

Finding the yacht was quite easy, however I wasn't prepared for its size. I wondered how big a crook this Katsaros really was. Besides smuggling, I knew the syndicate he headed had also been suspected of money laundering, drug trafficking, and human trafficking primarily to provide dancers for his clubs in southern Italy. These clubs were considered merely a disguise for the clandestini working as prostitutes. Obviously for him, crime did pay.

The Terpsichore wasn't the largest yacht; however, it made its adjacent neighbors look small. It had a dark blue hull and white superstructure and seemed to be equipped with all the toys expected by the rich.

Once I crossed the gangway onto the lazarette; I was escorted by a rough looking crewman up several flights of stairs to the bridge. While the yacht looked well maintained and recently refitted, I was surprised at the rather slovenly look of some of the crew. There were small groups actively roaming all parts of the open decks.

Even Massimo was dressed in rough well-worn clothing, unlike the normal smart attire of First Officers on luxury yachts.

Without any greeting, he began: "I was given your name. Apparently, you know about cameras."

"Good afternoon, Massimo. I'm a security consultant that specializes in electronic security. In particular, I've been focusing on maritime requirements."

I was going to continue to run down my list of services when he interrupted and said: "I have my own security guy. I want the current cameras updated and also your best long-range camera for on the mast. We want to be able to see as far as possible."

Getting right into business I commented: "As I came aboard, I noticed an old analogue fixed focus camera on the bridge wing. I assume it is used to assist with docking. I can replace all the old analogue cameras with digital that also give you easier control of direction and focus. I can also provide long range cameras, however perhaps it'd be best if I could inspect what you currently have installed."

He then turned to the crewman that had escorted me and ordered: "Attilio, take him around. If he has questions, grab that Simon fellow to provide answers."

Attilio took me around to all the positions of the current cameras and I was able to inspect the cabling. I also had a walk around the outside of the main and upper decks looking closely for potential camera and Wi-Fi booster locations. I was then escorted back upstairs.

Back at the bridge, I was introduced to Simon. In contrast to my initial reception, he was a welcoming face. He explained that he was the outgoing First Officer and was handing over to Massimo. I was about to outline my proposed plan when he asked me to wait while he sought out the Captain. Captain Bob Ives appeared accompanied by Massimo.

After introductions, I explained: "I understand that you have two requirements; cameras to assist docking and a long-range camera for on top of the mast. Firstly, for docking I would recommend a Garmin surround view system where the images can be transmitted to a control computer and to your chartplotter and display. We'd need at least six cameras, however on a vessel this large you probably want ten. Four could be connected through the current wiring to the cameras beside the bridge. The other six cameras should be placed about the upper deck and can be connected by Wi-Fi. I'll probably need to include a Wi-Fi booster to guarantee performance."

"Yes, I'm familiar with the system," Bob said. "You've used it also, haven't you Simon?"

"It was demonstrated when I went to the boat show last year." Simon explained. "It gives you a composite, bird's-eye view of the boat's surroundings plus you can also see individual images in more detail."

That's seems perfect," Bob concluded. "Do you agree Massimo?"

Massimo looked totally out of his depth but came back with a decisive: "Yes."

Continuing the discussion, I explained: "For the mast long-range camera, I presume you want something with gyro stabilization, zoom and both day and night capability. Now I can offer a selection of cameras. The first one has a 70 kilometer range for around the 150 thousand US dollar mark; next is an Infinti military grade camera with a variety of capabilities with prices ranging from 20 to 100 thousand dollars depending on the capability required. Finally, there is the reliable ClearCruise camera with 20 kilometer range for 12 thousand dollars.

Bob looked at Massimo and said: "Well this is your requirement. What do you think?"

Massimo ummed and ahhed before replying: "What was the cheapest one called again?" His response removed a potential headache as I'd only read the brochures on the expensive cameras, and I knew the ClearCruise was in stock.

With relief, I answered: "Raymarine ClearCruise FLIR M300C. It has a 30 times optical zoom. I assume that you'll want it to enhance your radar detection for inshore navigation. I can connect it with your navigation systems."

In an effort to display his decisiveness, Massimo pumped up his chest and decreed: "That will be fine, and I also require two cameras to be installed to monitor the lazarette."

When Bob noticeably raised his eyebrows, Massimo added: "We need improved security over the lazarette as it's so exposed when we're in port with the lazarette hatch open."

As he raised his chin as if ready to be challenged, I didn't bother explaining that the rear docking camera would be able to cover access over the gangway. Over the yacht's plans, we then discussed where I proposed to place every camera. Simon gave me confirmation that there was an internal conduit which would permit cabling to be run through the mast. The Captain then indicated where the additional display for these new cameras should be installed. Finally, they opened cupboards for their computers controlling navigation and communications for my inspection.

Before departing, I indicated that it would be at least two days' work and that I could start as soon as they accepted my quote. I had to check with the depot, but I promised to send them an email tonight with a breakdown of the costs.

On my way home, I thought I'd check out the Scuttlebutt just in case Chloe or one of her friends was present. She wasn't there but the strange Clouseau character was sitting outside watching everyone that passed by. Other than chuckling to myself regarding his inappropriate dress, I thought nothing more about it.

Back in my apartment, I phoned the stock clerk at the GSE depot and placed my order for equipment. He was able to provide me with the prices and also a template so that I could prepare the quote and invoice. In a little over an hour, I dispatched the quote to the email address given to me for the Terpsichore.

Next, I sent a Sitrep back to Langley. Little time passed before I received Morris's response:"NSA listening in on Terpsichore communications, but nothing detected. Need you to pursue placing listening devices onboard. Morris."

The remainder of the night, I prepared myself for the processes involved for the installation. Later that night, my quote was accepted, and I replied to say I'd commence at 10 am tomorrow, Wednesday.

In the morning, I was around at the GSE depot quite early to load the van with equipment. Once again, the stock clerk was cooperative, however Enzo wasn't about, or at least not seen by me.

The stock clerk drove me to the dock as he needed to retain the van. We were permitted to park near the yacht's stern to unload. With the help of one of the crew, I soon had all my equipment on board and was able to dismiss the stock clerk and van.

I proceeded up to the bridge as the easiest installation would be the cameras which already had cabling. I just needed to check that the cables were still functional. It was here that Simon, the outgoing First Officer appeared. To my astonishment, closely behind him was Chloe.

I politely said: "Good morning", to Simon but my eyes were on that gorgeous girl in the navy-blue shirt and white shorts. She was smiling at me, but she was bursting to say something. As I was confused, I immediately quizzed her with: "What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same question," she shot back.

"I'm doing some installations. I then looked to Simon and added: "Simon knows why I'm here." I could see he was amused yet he held back deliberately. I guess he was wondering what would happen next.

"You knew I crewed here, yet you didn't say anything to me," Chloe stated with just a touch of reproof.

"What!" I now thought before responding. "Oh, I get it. You said you worked on the Terpie. That was just Australian for Terpsichore. I am sorry; I should have known as Aussie always shorten words, for example you say; breakie, bikkie and Terpie. Why is it that you guys always clip words?"

Simon broke into boisterous laughter, before commenting: "That's because Aussies find big words difficult."

Chloe didn't seem amused as she gave a quick rejoinder: "It was Terpie before I came on board."

Then turning to Simon, she retorted: "At least we don't finish every sentence with 'eh'." With that she relaxed and conceded: "I guess I can see how the confusion came about. I try and avoid colloquialism as it just confuses the guests. It's when I relax off duty that a few careless words slip out. The worst problem is the polite words that I don't realize are exclusively Australian lingo."

Simon then became business like: "Well Trevor, I should be supervising you, but as I only have two days remaining, I need to focus on teaching Massimo and Attilio how everything works. Can I ask you to install the cameras first as I need all the bridge systems functional this morning? Then this afternoon you can take them offline for your integration."

"Sure, that's how I'd planned to work anyway. It may take longer than expected, however tomorrow afternoon I should be able to run you through everything to prove it all works."

"Great. Now can I leave you in the hands of Chloe? She's a hard case but knows this vessel, including the bridge instruments better than most." I nodded and smiled in response before Simon turned to Chloe: "I'll explain to Gabriella that I've seconded you for other duties."

Chloe watched Simon depart and something told me that they'd been close. Inquisitive, I asked: "You like him, don't you?"

"Yep, we've been mates since I joined the crew." She then looked up at me and guessed where my mind had wondered and then hastily added: "Yeah, but just really good friends. He's been like a big brother to me. I will miss him."

"I hope you don't mind having to accompany me?"

"No worries." She then looked about before adding, "Any escape from the dragon Gabriella will be a holiday. While we're here, let me start by pointing out what's on each panel in case it's not obvious."

After that introduction, for the next few hours, Chloe and I installed the docking cameras plus the ones for inside the lazarette. Chloe just stepped in to be more of an assistant. She carried equipment and instantly knew which tools to hand me when required.

The internal cameras for the lazarette covered the stern when the hatch was open plus access to the inside rooms such as the sauna, massage room, gym and technical stores. I assumed these cameras were also to provide security for their loose toys such as jet skis that were tied down in the central area.

As no one else was about, it gave me the opportunity for us to share a private conversation. My primarily interest was: "When do you think you can see me again... say for dinner and an evening."

From her dream-like expression, I gathered she understood what I was really asking. "We still haven't heard any definite plans. Our new Purser, Gabriella, keeps us working late even though the new owners have not yet fully moved on board."

I'd been wrestling with my conscience as to whether I should quiz Chloe and use her as an informer. I rationalized that as long as I kept the questions general, it wouldn't be compromising her. Confirming that no one was around, I asked: "Have you met the owners?"

"I briefly sighted George Katsaros yesterday morning. He didn't stay long but he was accompanied by his wife, Francina. She unpacked some clothing in her suite and then stopped to talk to us stewardesses."

"What did you make of her?"

Oh, she's glamorous. From some of her conversations she appears to be quite the socialite. She seemed to be interested in how we found life on board. She asked us if we rode the jet skis and SeaBobs. It was funny as she asked what we wore."

"How is that funny?"

"Well Harper replied that we always wore a life jacket on the jet skis; however, it sounded like she wanted to know what togs we wore."

"Togs?"

"Of course... swimsuits. It turned out she wanted to know if we all had bikinis and wore them. When we confirmed that we did, she smiled and said, 'that would be perfect.' We all speculated later that maybe she had an attraction for other women."

Later Chloe gave me another insight. "You think you'll have this work completed tomorrow?"

"Yes, unless there is some fault in the equipment. Why do you ask? Are you tired of seeing me already?"

"Never. It's nice being able to relax and talk with you. It'd be best if you weren't here Friday. The Katsaroses must have an acute obsession for privacy. On Friday the yacht is to be scanned for bugs and then Gabriella and their security guy want to search our electronic devices and view our social media pages. They'll be disappointed with me as all I have is an empty Facebook account. I only have it so I can use Messenger to talk with my Mum."

This piece of information was a game changer that sent my mind into overdrive. To give myself time to think, I pretended to innocently ask: "What do you mean by bugs?"

"I'm not an expert, but I assume they mean listening devices."

I just acted with disinterest although I now decided I needed to check out the master computers in the bridge even though I hadn't yet installed the mast head camera. I needed time to think. I was sure she knew nothing about George Katsaros' illegal activities, however that didn't mean she couldn't be compromised. I wanted to tell her to be wary and careful but doing that would only have her demanding information that I couldn't give.

The bridge was amazingly compact and although considerably larger, worked very much like an aircraft cockpit. There was a semi-circular layout of low consoles that allowed unobstructed view angles through the windows that were as large as possible. The consoles contained the black-box technology with daylight readable monitors.

The main helm station was central with engine and steering controls. The navigation station was to the right while the communication controls were to the left although everything was grouped to be within easy reach. There were a range of displays for maps and navigation, radar, sonar, and the old cameras. I knew I'd be able to reuse the camera display for the docking cameras, but an additional display would need to be installed. Fortunately, I could mount it directly onto a blank space on the console without having to undertake serious carpentry work.

There were two chairs, presumably for the officer of the watch and the Captain, however these were set back so they didn't restrict movement to their front. Behind these chairs was a chart table and more communications equipment.

Most of my work was to be crawling under the consoles that all had locked watertight doors. The Wi-Fi was located at the rear of the bridge. When I opened the relevant cupboard, I was surprised to see a piece of equipment that looked out of place. Next to an older HF radio was a new military grade HF Codan Sentry-H 6120-BM with the 3320 Transceiver Supply. It was even painted in the standard military NATO green.

As casually as I could, I asked Chloe: "What is this used for?"

"I've never seen that before. In fact, it definitely wasn't there the last time I did watchkeeping duty when we last went out."

My interest was sparked as this piece of equipment had encryption and frequency hopping capability and wasn't normally available for commercial use. This would make transmissions hard to detect and even harder to decipher. Even the NSA would find it difficult to intercept messages in a timely manner without the programmable hop plan, and the one-time session PIN. As the yacht already had HF, VHF, UHF, Iridium and Inmarsat satellite phones and a Starlink system, I could only speculate why smugglers would want to have long distance ultra secure communications.

I was certain that when I reported what I'd found, Langley would demand that I produced some means to listen to their conversations. Without placing a bug in the bridge, all I could come up with was placing a chip inside the radio to record the plain voice conversations before encryption.

I understood the theory, but I'd have to make an appropriate connector tonight. I could use a programmed 8TB SD card which needed to be connected in parallel after the Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) before the cipher component and for incoming conversations after the cipher component before the Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC).

The radio was just sitting on a shelf and should have been properly secured on a shock mount. It must have been hastily installed as both radios used the same antenna by use of a control station combiner. That would still work but it was unusual. However, this might give me the excuse to be examining it if I was observed.

Fortunately, I'd started checking the Starlink Wi-Fi router when Simon appeared with Massimo. This was timely as I needed the security code to connect the new cameras. It was also the time to let them know that I'd need to install a Wi-Fi extender in the lazarette.

Boldly I pointed to the new radio and stated: "You know that this HF radio is not properly installed?"

Simon replied: "I know nothing about it. I assume that is what that tradesman was doing on Monday. Is that right, Massimo?"