Just as Ryuto was making sarcastic comments, the masked figure in black had already initiated the next step, which, although not particularly sophisticated, naturally involved unlocking something since he had taken out a key.

So, our masked black-clothed friend quickly approached a certain lock.

His movements were pretty fast and systematic, starting from the outside, showing a sense of order. Seems like he is usually a very organized person.

As for unlocking, although it took some effort, he eventually managed to open it. After unlocking the first one, he immediately moved on to the next.

It seems he doesn't quite have the potential to be a master thief; it took so long to open with a key, but progress is being made.

As Ryuto pointed out, opening the second one was noticeably faster than the first, showing rapid improvement. Then came the third, but...

It couldn't be opened. The reason it wasn't opened wasn't because of the wrong key, a faulty lock, or lack of speed, given the significant progress. If one had to say, it was just because...

The person unlocking stopped abruptly. The lock wouldn't open on its own, and the reason our masked black-clothed friend stopped was actually simple—because the person was looking elsewhere in shock, a different kind of shock from when they first arrived.

Objectively speaking, from earlier until now, there had only been the sound of the masked black-clothed person unlocking, no other sound in the entire space. Whether before unlocking the lock or after opening two locks, the silence persisted.

What should have happened didn't happen, which surprised our masked black-clothed friend. But what surprised him the most right now was the unchanged expressions of the original occupants of this space.

After the lock sealing the cage was broken, there was still no movement, no one coming out, no one shouting, and even...

Their bodies remained motionless, best evidenced by the absence of any sounds of metal clashing in the entire space.

In the present, with the lock already opened, the expressions of the original occupants showed no change, just hollow stares fixed on the masked black-clothed person continuing to unlock the locks.

It was this situation that made the masked black-clothed person stop, as it was unexpected and incomprehensible to him.

Is it because they don't understand?

Someone pondered aloud.

"We're running out of time. I'll release all of you, hurry and escape; I've already taken care of the guards at the door," a voice announced for all to hear.

That should make things clear.

Someone thought so, but...

In the next moment, they denied it themselves.

The reality before them forced someone to believe they were mistaken.

Despite the declaration, nothing changed, neither the oppressive atmosphere nor the countless empty stares that remained unchanged, even though they belonged to different individuals, it was indistinguishable and equally terrifying.

Could it be...?

At this moment, a certain conclusion in Ryuto's mind became the answer.

Though unexpected, finding the answer was surprisingly simple, but it didn't bring any joy; this answer...

With that in mind, Ryuto couldn't help but narrow his eyes.