FMS Episode One 26 (Patreon)

(Three minutes and seven. Eight, nine…)

Chihaya looked down at her wrist dial again. Since Aya did her vertical dive down and went out of sight, there have been no signs of her. Since the ship’s hull was tilted and her porthole was pointed slightly upward, Chihaya was not really able to make out what was happening underneath. Did something go wrong? Aya was indeed a superb free diver and breath holder, but the prolonged wait has made Chihaya nervous.

(Don’t tell me you are…like…finally drowning)

While she wondered, her watch continued to tick, pushing her diver cousin closer and closer to death. Thirty-one. Thirty-two. Thirty-three.

Chihaya thought, maybe Aya reached her limit and had already risen up to the surface without her knowing. But on the other hand, since Aya had retrieved the goggles it was more likely that she would try to swim back to Chihaya’s cabin.

(Should I call for help?)

Chihaya pondered. Somehow, she would manage to get back on the sea on her own, take the rubber boat back to the shore and alert authorities. However, if something has happened to Aya, all her action and any ensuing rescue effort would be too late.

Only I can save her, Chihaya thought.

(Here I go)

Chihaya took a deep breath. Her breasts heaved and sank. Within a moment, Chihaya dove into the water and made a muffled echo within the chamber.