UNDERWATER

"What do you mean you don't recognize Mrs. Gong?" Zoe clenched her jaw as she earnestly tried to explain the situation to Koby.

She genuinely admired him for being excellent at his compassionate service. He was very kind to all the tourists on board.

Whenever they have peculiar questions or they simply need something, he is always there to serve. On top of that, he was also an exceptional illustrator. The fascinating stories of the old about the surrounding islands came alive as he narrated them.

But, Zoe was disappointed this time.

'How could he not know about Mrs. Gong? And how could he not spot her jumping into the saltwater?'

Still, she gave him the benefit of the doubt. By a very small margin, she didn't breathe out fire from her nostrils yet. But he must help her find her!

If only they were at another part of the limitless sea. If only they were far from the Ball's Pyramid. That eerie isle creeps her out. She felt that if she would draw near it, she would set her eyes on those savage wolves again.

Koby explained himself. "As far as I know, there is no Mrs. Gong among the official register of the travelers today."

He peeked down and examined the seawaters. But like Zoe, he could not detect any potential clue.

He scrunched his forehead and glanced at the passengers who were engaged preparing to dive. He computed them with his nimble fingers, making sure if they were complete.

"That's odd. There are 20 tourists in this boat. It is the total number of those who booked today." Koby scratched his head.

"Hold on, I'll check it again." He turned back to pick up the booking list.

In an instant, Zoe grasped his brawny arm and stopped him. "Wait, do you have some extra scuba diving gears that could fit me?"

Even though she wanted to relax and get a pleasurable thrill out of this day, the assured safety of Mrs. Gong takes the highest priority. Maybe with the diving equipment, she could swim better and distinguish under the boundless ocean.

"Splendid idea! I think I might actually have the right size for you. Come with me." He invited her to the bosun store so that she could check them out and dress accordingly.

Inside she saw a fresh piece of diving mask, scuba fins, diving gloves, and a scuba tank. The scuba tank has its own regulator, depth gauge, submersible pressure gauge, and compass.

"This is absolutely perfect," Zoe exclaimed as Koby spread them out.

Zoe brought out the wet suit from her backpack. Fortunately, she managed to buy one before going to the island just in case she has a change of mind. In which she did.

"Hold your breath. Have you done this before?" Koby asked Zoe, calculating if he could depend on her to do it alone.

"Y-yes." Zoe answered. Though it is factual that she has scuba dived before, it was a very long time ago.

Koby narrowed her eyes at her. Zoe sensed that he was evaluating her, so she set up the equipment from what she could remember.

He observed her as she did so. Completely satisfied, he drew in a sharp breath.

"Okay. In the meantime, I will report this to Mr. Nicky, and I'll join you later." He reassured her before gently closing the door.

In a matter of minutes, she was equipped to plunge down. She could not wait for Koby anymore. Believing in his words that he will pitch in with her, she didn't waste any more time.

The seawaters splashed as she jumped in at the speed of light. In a few seconds, she was already deep down into the waters.

It's enchanting under the ocean, like being in an extraordinary world. The water is as clear as crystals. Schools of bright-hued fish and sea flowers lavishly decorated the sand floor.

Zoe wished that she was there to revel in the scenic view. But she had to swim. She has to search for the woman who could seem to provide the answer to her life's questions.

"Where are you, Mrs. Gong?" She uttered in desperation as she treads away.

Just then, a man dove in and paddled toward her direction.

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Reality whistles a different tune underwater.

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