Hello, and welcome to my story! This is my first time writing a fic, but I've always been captivated by the idea of Subaru going through the events of SMT 1. So, I decided to write it myself. I'd greatly appreciate any reviews or feedback you may have.

Without further ado, I'll leave you with the story. Enjoy!

Prologue: An Unexpected Encounter in the Dream World

In a modest home situated in Kichijoji, Tokyo, 17-year-old Natsuki Subaru found himself immersed in yet another monotonous session of video games. With his slightly above-average looks, the teenager sported black hair and stood at a height of 5'7". His most remarkable feature, however, was his captivating eyes (or maybe scary to some people), a distinctive trait passed down from his mother, Natsuki Naoko, known as the 'sanpaku eyes'. Despite living as a shut-in, Subaru managed to find comfort in various activities, such as exercise, gaming, and even the disciplined practice of kendo.

Years ago, he was once a promising young boy, the family shining star. His father, Natsuki Kenichi, was a well-respected man in the community, known for his unwavering dedication to his work and family. Subaru idolized his father and wanted nothing more than to make him proud. Everywhere he went, people would exclaim, "Look, it's Kenichi's son!" and "Wow, he's just like his father!" At first, Subaru reveled in the attention, proud to be associated with his father's success. He even styled his hair to look similar!

But over time, Subaru began to resent the constant comparisons. He was tired of being known only as "Kenichi's son" and longed to be recognized for his talents and abilities. He started to question whether he was living his life for himself or his father's approval. The pressure to live up to his that kind of expectations was suffocating, and Subaru can't endure it anymore.

Determined to break free from his father's shadow, Subaru embraced various changes in his life to distinguish himself from Kenichi. He abandoned his father's signature combed hairstyle and allowed his hair to fall naturally, a look that unexpectedly enhanced his appearance. It was also during this period that he began practicing kendo and martial arts, pursuits that not only offered him physical discipline but also promoted mental clarity. Confronted with the daunting task of living up as Kenichi's son, Subaru held firm to his conviction of carving out his own path.
But one day, Kenichi disappeared without leaving a trace. It had been 3 years since then, and although Subaru would never admit it, his father's disappearance had a profound impact on him. Between that time, he tried to remain strong for his mother, helping her through the grief, but as time went on, he found himself increasingly isolated. He started to spend more and more time in his room, turning to video games and manga isolating himself from reality.

From that moment on, a nagging sense of guilt haunted Subaru. He couldn't shake the thought that perhaps Kenichi's disappearance was somehow connected to a heated argument they had shared back then.

The weight of his own uselessness and weakness was crushing Subaru, eating away at him from the inside out. "I'm so damn useless," he muttered to himself like a broken record, the words becoming a twisted mantra that he repeated day after day. Although he and his mother had managed to get by with the financial support of his grandparents, Subaru couldn't shake the feeling of worthlessness that seemed to follow him everywhere he went. He went to school sporadically to at least avoid being a NEET, and ran errands for his mother, but these minor tasks only deepened his sense of self-loathing.

"Why... why can't I just man up and do something? My mom has learned to move on willing to support me, and even so, here I am, playing video games like a loser. I keep telling myself I'm useless, and yet I don't do anything about it. How pathetic can I be..."

As usual, Subaru spent the day gaming, barely leaving his room. His eyes were sore and bleary from all the time he spent staring at the computer screen. Suddenly remembering that he needed to buy coffee for his mother the next day, he checked the clock and saw that it was already 10:30 pm.

"Whoa, the time has really flown by! I should head to bed. Oh, and I need to remember to walk Pascal tomorrow. Perhaps I'll take him with me when I visit the mall," Subaru muttered, suppressing a yawn. "On the bright side, I don't have school tomorrow."

As he slid into bed, Subaru could feel the toll his shut-in lifestyle was taking on his body and mind. Despite maintaining a workout routine, exhaustion seemed to be his constant companion. He shut his sanpaku eyes, yearning for some rest, but was plagued by an uneasy feeling that something was amiss. Unable to identify the root of his disquiet, he tossed and turned restlessly.

"I just need to clear my head," Subaru murmured to himself. "Yes, that's what I'll do." With a determined exhale, he made a conscious effort to push his worries aside and focus on the present moment. He closed his eyes again and allowed himself to drift off into a deep, peaceful slumber

Subaru gradually opened his eyes, squinting as he adjusted to his surroundings. Rubbing his eyes in an attempt to dispel the blurriness, he grew even more perplexed by what he saw. He found himself in an unfamiliar place resembling a labyrinth, its ethereal walls, and floors awash in a surreal hue that hovered between red and white. Isolated and disoriented, he tried to make sense of this strange environment. A surge of panic enveloped him as he grappled with understanding where he was and how he had arrived there.

"What the hell... w-where am I?" Subaru stammered, his voice laced with confusion and exhilaration. He opted to pinch himself, suspecting that he might be experiencing a lucid dream, hoping it might bring him back to reality. However, the sharp pain that followed left him questioning. "Well, that definitely hurt! I guess this isn't a dream after all... or is it?" His voice trailed off as he surveyed the bizarre, uncharted landscape.

Shaking his head, Subaru resolved to concentrate on the present. He surveyed the area and spotted a corridor ahead. "Looks like that passage over there is the only way forward," he mumbled to himself, his mind teeming with potential outcomes. "Well, here goes nothing." Sporting a wry grin, he embarked on the path, his heart pounding increasingly with each stride. Although he was uncertain about what awaited him, the allure of the unknown only heightened his enthusiasm.

After walking for what felt like a few minutes, Subaru was caught off guard by a sudden flash of light. As his vision slowly returned, he watched in disbelief as the path before him, sealed itself shut. An enigmatic wall had materialized, blocking his way forward. At the center of the wall, an eerie face in the likeness of a bald, old man with luminous eyes stared back at him. A sequence of ancient glyphs surrounded the face, intricately inscribed into the wall's surface.

Subaru barely had time to react before the entity's voice reverberated through the air, both booming and commanding. "Who dares to tread these hallowed halls?!" it demanded. "Declare thy name, or thou shalt not pass!"

Subaru was taken aback by the entity's piercing and intimidating gaze. Despite his fear, he managed to stammer out his name. "M-my name is Subaru... Natsuki Subaru," he responded, his voice quivering. He couldn't help but ask, "Where am I? Is this just a dream?"

Disregarding his last question, the entity spoke, "The one called Natsuki Subaru possesses latent power! Delve into your soul and unleash it!"

"M-my soul? I-I don't know what you mean–" Before Subaru could continue, the entity interrupted him.

"I have sensed the power coursing within thy soul," the entity thundered. "It is like a gate awaiting its key!"

Subaru's confusion persisted, but he heeded the talking wall instructions and closed his eyes, concentrating on his heart. He remembered his childhood martial arts training and the meditation techniques he had learned, clearing his mind of all thoughts. As he focused, he saw a reflection of himself as if gazing into a mirror, with a peculiar, flickering light in the region of his heart. In that instant, Subaru felt an enigmatic force drawing him towards the light, and he reached out to touch it without hesitation.

As the light enveloped him, Subaru felt a surge of unfamiliar energy coursing through his body. "W-what is this sensation?!" he exclaimed. "It's as if the weight I've carried for the past three years has suddenly vanished!" He then recalled the talking wall's words. "So, this is that so-called latent power, huh?" Subaru smirked.

Ending his meditation, Subaru opened his eyes and looked back at the wall. "I'm finished," he declared.

The ethereal face addressed Subaru in a nostalgic tone. "Natsuki Subaru..." it spoke, its voice laden with significance. "...so, it is truly thou." The being paused for a moment as if considering its next words. "Beyond this wall, those chosen by God who adhere to Law and Order, as well as those who rely on their own might and navigate by competition and Chaos, await thee."

'Law and chaos? Sounds like a typical fantasy RPG plot', Subaru mused with a wry smile. 'Maybe...just maybe, this is my chance to become a hero and prove my worth. I don't even know if this is a dream or reality, but I can't let this opportunity pass me by.

"The equilibrium between Law and Chaos must not be disturbed as thou proceed," the head-like being cautioned, its voice solemn. "And be warned, this is not a mere game. The destiny of the world hinges on thy actions," it added with a somber tone. "Farewell, Natsuki Subaru. May fate be on thy side." With those final words, the being and the wall vanished, leaving only a faint glimmer of light to illuminate the path through the labyrinth.

Subaru's thoughts began to wander. "He's right," he acknowledged with a jolt of self-awareness. "I always try to treat every situation as if it were a game, just like any other aspect of my life. If this is indeed real, then I need to seize this opportunity to start anew, from zero." His mind turned to his mother and his dog Pascal. "I must change, at least for their sake," he resolved, sprinting deep into the maze.

Ten minutes later, Subaru's eyes beheld a peculiar sight. There, before him, was a translucent figure resembling a man. The figure was crucified.

"Holy shit…" Subaru murmured under his breath, his voice tinged with shock and disbelief.

Then suddenly, beside the cross, a man in blue robes materialized in a faint flash of light. His only discernible features were the glowing eyes visible through his hood. The man then spoke.

"Greetings, Natsuki Subaru," the being announced, his voice resonating with authority. "I am a messenger from the heavens, sent by God himself." The being paused for a moment before continuing. "The soul here on the cross has been offered to God. But, If you call to him, he may awaken."

Subaru was taken aback by the being's words, but he tried to maintain his composure. 'Call him… but how?! Damn it, Subaru, use your head!' Subaru thought for a moment when suddenly a name came to his mind as if he had known it for ages.

"Yuji!" Subaru shouted, "Wake up, Yuji!"

The messenger spoke in a solemn and understanding tone, "So, Yuji is his name..." He paused briefly before exclaiming, "Yuji possesses a latent power, akin to thine own. Wield his abilities with caution. Godspeed, Natsuki Subaru, may divine guidance illuminate thy path." And with those parting words, the messenger vanished.

As if by magic, Yuji was released from the cross, landing on the floor with a thud.

"W-where am I?" Yuji asked, disoriented.

Subaru rushed to his aid, offering a hand. "Yuji! I'm Natsuki Subaru. Are you alright?"

Yuji nodded, standing to his feet with Subaru's help. His uncertainty lingered. "Pleased to meet you, Natsuki-san, but how do you know my name?"

"It's a bit complicated… For now, the only thing you need to know is that we are in a very strange place, and somehow, by destiny, we met today," Subaru said with a brief pause before continuing, "Do you remember anything before appearing here?"

Yuji remained silent for a moment as if trying to recall. "The only thing I remember is speaking with my girlfriend on the phone while I was at home, but I can't remember any more than that."

"I see…" Subaru replied, a nervous smile on his face. "In my case, I ended up here after falling asleep."

"I understand," Yuji echoed, waiting for a moment before speaking. "A few moments ago, I felt awful, as if I was paralyzed or something. Somehow, my intuition tells me that you saved me from whatever that was, didn't you?"

"Something like that. I… found you crucified, and a man who called himself a messenger of God told me that you were about to be sacrificed. After I told him your name, he released you," Subaru explained.

Yuji, visibly terrified but speaking with a relieved and grateful tone, stammered, "I-I see... Thank you so much, Natsuki-san. I owe you, my life."

"You're welcome!" Subaru responded warmly.

Yuji then approached Subaru. "I... I feel that if I go with you, maybe I'll remember what I was doing before appearing here. Please, let me accompany you!" he pleaded earnestly.

"Of course, I'd be happy to have you join me in exploring this place! In fact, I have a feeling it might be safer that way," Subaru said reassuringly.

"Okay, Natsuki-san, please lead the way!" Yuji responded enthusiastically.

After several minutes of navigating the maze, Subaru and Yuji came to an abrupt halt upon encountering what could only be described as an imp, perched menacingly atop the body of a helpless man.

"What is that?!" Yuji exclaims in panic.

"It looks like an Imp, like the ones you'd see in video games," Subaru replies a bit haunted by the sight.

"Heh, it seems you've done your homework, Natsuki Subaru," the small demon retorts mockingly.

"What are you doing to that man, demon!" Yuji demands.

The demon lets out a short laugh. "Oh, don't worry about this weakling. It appears that fate has brought him here to cross paths with you two."

Both Subaru and Yuji keep themselves silent, waiting for any move from the imp.

"This weakling possesses a soul that craves power," the demon replies before turning to Subaru. "As you may have done with the soul accompanying you, if you call out to this fool, he might wake up... or perhaps not, kahaha!"

"Natsuki-san, what should we do?" Yuji asks, clearly worried.

"Don't worry, dude, just leave this to me," Subaru reassured Yuji, who nods in response.

Subaru thought for a moment, then just as had happened with Yuji, something clicked inside Subaru's mind. 'I got it!'Subaru smirks.

"Go on, say his name!" the demon taunted.

"Takeshi!" Subaru shouted, "Wake up!"

"You say that the name of this weakling is Takeshi?"

"That's right, his name is Takeshi! Now leave him alone!" Subaru demanded.

"Heh, I'll be damned! You're definitely special, human," the demon acknowledges before turning its attention to the newly-named Takeshi. "He may be weak for now, but he still has a chance to become strong, just like the two of you." The demon speaks up, uttering its final words, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go. Farewell, humans!"

A few seconds after the imp vanished, Takeshi began to stir, groaning, "What the hell... why did you wake me up?!"

"Hello Takeshi, I'm Subaru, and this is Yuji," Subaru introduces them both.

"Nice to meet you, Takeshi-san!" Yuji chimed in after Subaru.

Takeshi can't help but stare at the two translucid figures "What the fuck? Did I overdo it with drugs again? It must be... I'm so high that I've started talking to ghosts..." Takeshi mumbled, bewildered by the situation.

Both Subaru and Yuji can't help but chuckle a bit awkwardly.

"I don't know how to explain it to someone like you, but I think we are communicating through some kind of astral projection. So, technically you're seeing our souls," Subaru clarifies.

"Eh?" Takeshi reacts, puzzled.

"Is there something you don't understand, Takeshi-san?" Yuji inquires.

Takeshi begins to wave his arms comically. "Of course! Why the hell am I here?! I was actually having a great sleep, dreaming about a hot chick. And then I woke up in this place..."

"None of us has that answer," Yuji admitted.

"True, and honestly, you might not want to know right now," Subaru adds, following Yuji's comment. "Actually, just a moment ago, you had a freaking imp perched on top of your body."

Takeshi's eyes widen in disbelief. "Wait, seriously? An imp? You've got to be kidding me!"

"I wish we were joking," Subaru says with a wry smile. "But it's the truth. This place is like something straight out of a dark fantasy manga, hahaha!"

Yuji chimed in, "Yeah, I can also attest to that." Yuji chuckles a bit before making a grim expression, "A few minutes ago I was saved from being sacrificed, all thanks to Natsuki-san."

Takeshi scratches his head, still trying to wrap his mind around everything. "For real? Holy shit. This place is seriously fucked up! Hell, who or what on earth was responsible to bringing us here?!."

Subaru shakes his head. "We're not entirely sure. Who knows? It could've been God, the devil, or some other kind of entity. But for now, we're focused on finding a way out of this place. You're welcome to join us if you want."

Takeshi hesitates for a moment before responding, "Well, shit… whatever, I'll come with you guys."

"Good, let's get going"

Nearly an hour had passed, with the trio still searching through the maze's corridors for an exit, discussing their current situation. However, Takeshi was growing impatient.

"Damn it, we've been running through these shitty corridors for about 45 minutes, and there's still no sign of an exit!" Takeshi complained.

"C-calm down, Takeshi-san. I'm sure we'll find a way out of here!" Yuji reassured him.

"Yeah! Don't worry, dude! Hope is the last thing you lose, right?" Subaru chimed in with encouragement.

Takeshi grumbled, "Easy for you two to say. I just want to get out of this shithole."

Subaru, trying to cheer him up, said, "Well, then better stop complaining and keep moving! The sooner we find an exit, the quicker you can return with that hot chick from your dream!"

Yuji, slightly amused by Subaru's remark, chimed in, "Natsuki-san does have a point. Let's try to look on the bright side of things, and perhaps we can concentrate more effectively on our escape."

Takeshi rolled his eyes. "Yeah, sure, the bright side. Like getting to know you two goody-goodies better, huh?"

Subaru chuckled at Takeshi's sarcastic remark. "Well… I think that's the best we can do for now, at least until we find a way out."

The trio continued moving when Subaru suddenly noticed something in the distance. "Guys, I see a door at the end of that corridor!" he exclaimed.

"About fucking time!" Takeshi exclaimed.

"Takeshi-san, could you please not use that kind of language?" Yuji asked politely.

"Let me think… nope, Yuji, I won't," Takeshi replied, sticking to his usual manner of speaking.

Subaru chuckled at their interaction and said, "Come on, guys, let's just focus on getting to that door. Maybe it's our way out of here."

Yuji nodded, trying to refocus their attention. "You're right, Natsuki-san. Let's keep moving."

When they reached the door, Subaru signaled for them to stop before saying, "Before we open this door, I want to make sure of something."

"What's the matter, Natsuki-san?" Yuji asked, concerned.

"Yeah, dude, spit it out!" Takeshi chimed in impatiently.

Subaru nodded before turning to Yuji. "I think all three of us have some kind of superpowers.

"Superpowers? Yeah right," Takeshi replied, a bit skeptical.

"Dude, we're having a meeting here through our souls! I've already seen a talking wall, an enigmatic man from the heavens, and an imp. Having superpowers shouldn't be so crazy if you think about it…"

"I agree with Natsuki-san," Yuji said. "The simple fact that the three of us are here, communicating in this way, already speaks volumes. Having some kind of supernatural ability isn't as far-fetched as you might think."

Takeshi scratched his head, considering their words. "Alright, fine. Let's say we do have these so-called superpowers. How do we figure out what they are?"

Subaru pondered for a moment. "Good question. The first thing you should try is to meditate." Subaru turned to Yuji. "The messenger of God," then he turned to Takeshi, "and that imp told me that just like me, you have latent potential. Through meditation, you can try to unlock it."

"Dude, to be honest, I'm not that good with meditation... I've never tried that crap in my life."

"It's actually very easy! Just close your eyes and try to clear your mind of any useless thoughts. That way, your mind will become clear."

Yuji hummed a bit. "That's right! Just close your eyes and relax, Takeshi-san."

"Tsk, fine, I'll give it a try."

Both Yuji and Takeshi sat on the ground of the maze, preparing to meditate.

"What should we focus on, Natsuki-san?"

"Try to search for something akin to a reflection of yourselves."

Yuji nodded, taking a deep breath. "Alright, let's try our best, Takeshi-san."

Takeshi exhaled loudly, clearly not thrilled about the idea, but he agreed. "Yeah, yeah, whatever. Let's just do this."

The two closed their eyes and began to meditate, focusing on the idea of a reflection of themselves. The silence of the maze enveloped them as they tried to clear their minds of any distractions.

After a few minutes, Yuji spoke up hesitantly. "Natsuki-san, I feel something... It's like a warmth within me, but I'm not sure what it means."

Subaru smiled reassuringly. "That's good, Yuji! That warmth is like energy flowing through your soul. Try to become more familiar with it and just embrace it."

Takeshi just laughed. "Are you a freaking hippie or what?"

Subaru just shrugged. "Say what you want, but that's the only way for you to unlock that power."

Yuji said, "Come on, Takeshi-san! Give it a try!"

Takeshi sighed. "Damn it, fine, I'll give it a shot."

After nearly a minute, Yuji opened his eyes. "Wow… this is amazing! This energy, it feels so warm…"

"Hell yeah! It's true! I haven't felt this calm in many years!" exclaimed Takeshi.

"Great! That's progress!" Subaru said, satisfied with the results.

"Well, now how do we use this power?" Takeshi asked.

"Honestly… I don't know." At hearing this, both Takeshi and Yuji couldn't help but sweat drop.

"Then what was the point of all this crap?!"

Yuji chuckled nervously and said, "Take it easy, Takeshi-san. Perhaps it was meant to help us get acquainted with our own energy first, right, Natsuki-san?"

"Pretty clever, Yuji! While I don't know how we can manifest that power into something like magic or who knows what, I think it's necessary to get a grip on the latent power that we possess."

Takeshi crosses his arms but sighs in the end "Fine… anything more that should we know?"

Subaru speaks calmly "No, that was all. I think we should open the door now"

"We got your back Natsuki-san!"

"Thanks, Yuji, now here we go…"

Subaru opened the door. As they entered, the sight before them left them awestruck.

"Wow…" Subaru murmured.

Before them, a gorgeous pond surrounded by trees and bushes, illuminated by a starry sky, captivated their sight.

"This is really beautiful! It's as if we've reached Eden itself!" Yuji exclaimed.

Takeshi smirked jokingly. "Are you perhaps a religious guy, Yuji?"

Yuji chuckled softly. "Well, I was raised in a religious environment, so I suppose it's only natural that I find beauty and meaning in things like this. It's part of who I am."

Subaru, feeling slightly awkward but appreciating the moment, added, "It's refreshing to see something so beautiful after being a shut-in for so many years. A change of scenery like this is always welcome."

Takeshi couldn't help but snort. "What? Dude, don't tell me you're one of those losers who waste their whole damn life inside their rooms!"

Yuji frowned slightly, sensing that Takeshi's remark might have hurt Subaru. "Hey, Takeshi-san, let's not be too harsh. Everyone has their own problems. Natsuki-san I don't know the reason why you isolate yourself from the world. Just know that you can count on me!"

Takeshi scratched the back of his head, feeling a bit ashamed. "Yeah, you're right, Yuji. Sorry, Subaru, I didn't mean to be such an ass about it."

Subaru smiled, appreciating the support. "It's alright, Takeshi. It's not like I'm proud of being like that… But I'm willing to change that, I swear.

Both Yuji and Takeshi nodded in agreement. Even though Subaru couldn't see their features in their translucent forms, he somehow knew they were giving him a supportive smile.

"Well, let's explore this pla—"

Before Subaru could continue, a stunning woman with jet-black hair emerged gracefully from the depths of the pond. Her most striking feature was her piercing blue eyes, which were locked onto Subaru, ignoring both Takeshi and Yuji. However, since she was completely naked, Takeshi's remarks were inevitable.

Takeshi snickered, doing his best to keep his eyes on her face. "Well, this is an unexpected turn of events. Can't tell if it's a trap or a gift, but I won't complain."

Yuji, blushing furiously, averted his gaze. "Takeshi-san, have some decency! Um, miss, would you mind covering yourself, please?"

Although Subaru was clearly captivated by the view, he couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy about the mysterious woman's stare.

"Subaru… so it's you. You don't have to worry. My name is Yuriko, and I have been waiting for you… as your eternal companion," the enigmatic woman said gently, her voice almost ethereal.

Takeshi raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "Eternal companion, huh? Well, isn't that convenient for you, Subaru?"

Subaru, still a bit wary, stammered, "I-I don't understand. What do you mean by an eternal companion?"

"All in due time, my love… For now, let's meet again in the real world. If you want to find the exit of this realm, just follow the trail from where you entered this pond. The maze will do its job by itself."

Not entirely sure whether to trust Yuriko or not, Subaru and his friends exchanged cautious glances. They decided to follow her advice but remained prepared for any surprises or dangers they might encounter along the way.

Takeshi can't help but share his thoughts as they walk. "You know what, even if that chick was hot, you both have to agree that she was suspicious as hell."

"Considering that initial comment of yours, I'm a bit surprised to hear that coming from you," Yuji said, causing Takeshi to grumble comically. "But I agree, there was something quite peculiar about her demeanor."

"Hell, everything in this place is strange. If what she said is true, then we should prepare ourselves before our souls return back to their bodies," replied Subaru. "First, we need to make sure that we can meet again in the real world. I'm from Tokyo, Kichijoji, and you?"

"I live in Kichijoji too! Although I'm a bit closer to Mitaka," Yuji replied.

"Damn, I also live in Kichijoji! Maybe have you also heard of Ozawa?!" exclaimed Takeshi, surprised by the coincidence.

"Ozawa? Sorry bro, but I don't know him"

"Ozawa is the leader of an infamous gang Natsuki-san" Yuji answers "I think is normal that you haven't heard of him, since he has lurked with his gang in the south of the neighbor" Yuji pauses for a bit "But also your shut-in lifestyle can explain that"

Subaru scratches his head a bit "Yeah, it's true. In fact, I only go outside to go to school, buy things for my mother, and take my dog for a stroll…"

"Anyway," Takeshi continued, "Ozawa is a real piece of shit. His gang is already mobilizing to the north of Kichijoji. In fact, I think they're already planning some incursions into Shibuya. Which part of the neighborhood do you live in, dude?"

Subaru responded, "I live near a mall in the neighborhood. It's actually pretty convenient for getting the things I need without going too far from home."

"What mall? There's a bunch of them in the neighborhood," Takeshi replied.

Subaru elaborated, "Oh, I should've been more specific. I live near the Atre Kichijoji Mall. It's a pretty well-known place, so you've probably heard of it."

"Seriously? Darn it, you should be careful! I've heard that Ozawa has already set his sights on that place," Takeshi warned.

Yuji chimed in, "Actually, my girlfriend lives close to that area!"

"Small world we live in, huh? If she lives near the mall, I might know her. What's her name?" Subaru asked with interest.

"Heh, I'm actually getting interested too!" Takeshi chimed in.

"Her name is Yuka," Yuji replied in a sweet tone.

Subaru exclaims in shock "I-I think she is my neighbor next door! It makes sense too! Some days ago, she started to speak about how she met a guy near the train station. That guy must be you"

"Hahaha!" Takeshi laughed. "Darn it, now I'm absolutely convinced! This must be fate itself!"

Yuji couldn't help but sigh in disappointment. "Seriously, that was the reason for you to finally accept the fact... I should've guessed, Takeshi-san..."

"Well, to be fair, everything here could easily be just a dream, but considering how all of this makes so much sense, a little push was all I needed!" Takeshi explained.

Subaru smiled a bit. "Well, taking that into account, now I have a reason to get outside more often." Subaru paused briefly before continuing, "Still, we need to figure out how we're going to meet each other in the real world since I don't know what you two look like!"

"Hmmm... that's a valid point," Yuji responded. "But I believe we should let fate take the lead on that."

"I'm with you on that! I mean, if we managed to meet here, talking through our souls or whatever crazy thing this is, I have no doubt that we'll find a way to meet each other in the real world!" Takeshi declared.

"Yeah! I–" Before Subaru could reply, he hears something calling for him.

Subaru! Don't you think it's already time to wake up?

"Natsuki-san, what's the matter?" Yuji asks, concerned.

Just because you don't have school today doesn't mean you should oversleep!

"Guys, I just heard my mom calling me! I think I'm about to wake up," Subaru exclaims, his voice filled with urgency.

"Then that likely applies to us as well," Yuji says with a smile. "It was great meeting you both, Natsuki-san and Takeshi-san. I hope we can meet again soon in the real world."

"Heh, same here. Until next time, bros!" Takeshi chimes in, feeling relieved at the prospect of finally returning to the real world.

Come on, wake up!

The three friends brace themselves, hoping that the transition back to their physical bodies will be a smooth one. As they prepare for the unknown, they share a final nod of support and understanding, knowing that they've forged a bond in this mysterious realm that will continue in the real world.

Suddenly, the surroundings begin to blur. The colors and sounds of the otherworldly landscape start to fade, and a familiar sense of reality washes over them. One by one, they feel their consciousness being pulled back into the real world.

As Subaru opens his eyes, he finds himself in his own room. His mother's voice can be heard through the door, urging him to get up. He sits up in bed, trying to process the surreal experience he just had. Was it all just a dream, or did it really happen? Only time and a reunion with Takeshi and Yuji will provide the answers he's searching for.

End of Prologue.