In Chapter 32 of Murakami's Kafka on the Shore, During breakfast, Hoshino and Nakata discuss the entrance stone, with Nakata uncertain about its purpose. Nakata confesses feeling like an empty vessel, having lost not only his memories but his entire self. Hoshino comforts him, noting that everyone experiences such feelings occasionally. He shares his grandfather's wisdom: chance encounters give life meaning. Meanwhile, a storm brews outside.

Nakata reveals the stone is a gateway to a world he visited briefly during his coma. Although fearful of reopening the entrance, he knows it's necessary. The stone, now seemingly heavier than before, requires Hoshino's full strength to turn it over. Exhausted, Hoshino collapses while Nakata confirms they've successfully opened the entrance.