Richard glanced down, his steely exterior momentarily softened. “Sometimes, Ethan, the smallest voices are the ones that deserve to be heard the most.”

Minutes ticked by, each one feeling like an eternity. Reporters, sensing a major story, were relentless in their coverage. Cameras clicked incessantly, capturing every expression that played across Richard’s face. They captured the disbelief that slowly morphed into concern, then into a steely resolve as he waited.

Finally, one of the technicians approached, his face grave. “Sir, we found something. There’s a device attached to the underside near the fuel tank. We’re not sure what it is yet, but it’s definitely not supposed to be there.”