Yuta hated to admit it, but at that point, there was a clear disadvantage when it came to the other players. It wasn't something that truly worried him; for him, it only represented a challenge. However, he knew he'd have to work harder to quickly reach the others' level… and then crush anyone who dared to play with him.
"Since we're going in blind, the important thing is to stay calm together and watch the others. I can take care of myself, so try to look for more answers, since you're far more observant than I thought." Usagi could handle herself, so she wouldn't be a burden.
"Don't worry," Yuta replied with a faint smile. "Leave the observation work to me, and we'll both get through this game unscathed."
Usagi felt confident in Yuta's words, so she didn't say anything more. The two of them kept walking, and before long, they arrived at the illuminated area.
…
The game zone they were heading toward was better known as the Tokyo International Forum.
The Tokyo International Forum was a unique complex built on a 27,100-square-meter site, where dance, music, and theater performances were held, along with conventions, trade fairs, business meetings, and receptions.
When Yuta observed the brightly lit area, he immediately realized that the playing field was extremely large, and that there were likely all kinds of people gathered there. He knew it would be crucial to study the environment and uncover what was hidden behind this "game."
Most people, upon arriving at such a place, would think about their past or present. But Yuta was different. He always considered the future that extended from each of his actions.
What kind of game could take place in such a vast location? What would its true nature be?
That forum was a prime space for hosting international events and cultural exchanges. To the north and south of the complex ran four subway lines, and it was also close to two of the busiest train stations in the entire city.
"Cultural exchanges…" Yuta thought silently. Taking into account the history of the place—or rather, its original purpose—it wouldn't be surprising if foreign cultures were considered in the creation of the game.
In fact, that might even be an advantage for him.
Yuta knew the place well. He knew that a granite perimeter wall surrounded an urban garden plaza that stretched beneath four spacious performance halls.
He mentally analyzed the terrain in detail, then thought about the rest: the theater lobbies, and along the eastern edge of the complex, the so-called Glass Hall—a massive glass structure stretching 228 meters in length.
The place was enormous, and a dreadful feeling coursed through Yuta's body. This game would definitely be anything but simple.
Just as he was about to give Usagi a few recommendations, he heard a voice from the distance that immediately put him on alert.
"This sure is a great playing field... I can't imagine the massacre that's about to happen," someone said mockingly.
Being observant was instinctive, so Yuta and Usagi turned their eyes toward the source of the voice. When they saw the man walking toward them, Yuta stepped forward and studied him closely.
Noticing Yuta's gesture, the man greeted the duo of strangers and said, "Sorry… I must've startled you. My name's Ide Hiroshi. Are you two a couple?"
Yuta's eyes fixed on him, analyzing every detail. He noticed the man's slow steps, mocking gaze, and bitten fingernails—clear signs of uncontrollable anxiety.
"I'm Yuta Hark. You can just call me Yuta," he replied calmly, extending his hand without showing the slightest hostility. In his mind, he had already classified Hiroshi as a coward with high levels of anxiety.
"The girl beside me is Usagi. Is your visa about to expire?" Yuta asked casually.
Ide Hiroshi's eyes widened slightly before glancing over the duo's appearance.
Their clothes looked new, and their expressions showed mild confusion, so he assumed they were newly arrived players.
He tried to take advantage of their apparent naivety, but soon realized it wouldn't be so easy. He even noticed the backpack on Usagi's back—where she likely kept weapons.
Realizing his attempt had failed, Ide Hiroshi nodded sincerely and said, "Yeah… I've been hanging on these last few days, but you know what happens when the visa hits zero…"
"Yeah, I understand that," Yuta replied with a sympathetic look.
Usagi, beside him, was pleasantly surprised by how Yuta had managed to extract information without appearing weak. That left a favorable impression on her, and she immediately understood that this man hadn't approached them with good intentions.
Ide Hiroshi's appearance was rather unkempt: he had short hair, wore a suit without a jacket, and was barely one meter seventy tall. His build was slim—almost frail—which gave him a weak impression.
Hiroshi looked at Usagi, who watched him silently, and gave a tense smile.
"Usagi, right? Nice to meet both of you before the game starts. I haven't been able to team up with anyone these past few days."
Usagi looked at the hand Hiroshi extended, but didn't take it; she simply nodded slightly before turning her gaze away. Noticing that, Hiroshi spoke in a somewhat anxious tone: "Let's get inside the game! It shouldn't take long to begin."
"We'll follow you!" Yuta replied with a friendly smile.
When Hiroshi saw that smile, a chill ran down his spine. Without another word, he hurried toward the entrance of the game area, while Yuta and Usagi followed cautiously behind him.