章 32: The Hidden Key

"It's time for both teams to decide who's going to be locked in and who's going under the water!" The Void declared, firm and serious.

Haruto and Esamu exchanged nervous glances, tension clear on their expressions.

The two teams now stood a distance apart, deciding their roles.

"What do you think, Haruto?" Esamu asked.

Haruto was looking down, his thoughts racing. Finally he looked up to Esamu and confessed, "Esamu I'll be honest… I fear being underwater… I can't swim!" 

Esamu nodded, his face softened with understanding, "Alright Haruto, then I'll go underwater." 

Haruto was looking at him with uncertainty, "Are you sure?" he asked.

Esamu nodded confidently, "I did take swimming classes in high school, so I'll try doing my best," he reassured.

Haruto smiled faintly, though worry didn't leave his eyes. "Alright, just… be careful, you're not going to be alone there." he cautioned.