"Double kitamura" is the title of this chapter's dialogue, which takes place in a cafe in Yokohama, Japan. It's the first time we've heard of the protagonist, and we're glad to hear that he's a "mammal" . We also learn that the protagonist has been offered a role in a new play, which he refuses to take because he doesn't think it's appropriate for him to act in front of other people. The protagonist tells us that the play's director, Mr. Tsukumo, is "grateful" to have the opportunity to leave home early so he can go to the theater. He also tells the protagonist that he should memorize the play by July, when rehearsals begin. The play is a work by playwright, poet, and director, Kotsuka, and the protagonist's role is to "recreate the plays" that Tsuka left for them to inherit. He tells the audience that the two characters in the play are crying because they're afraid they'll lose their roles if they don't take the part. He says that he wanted the part no matter what, even if it meant that he had to wear a helmet with him. He asks the protagonist if he really intends to go, and he says that everyone leaves the theater, "one by one" , and that's why he wants to go. He adds that he even has a helmet to wear with him, but he'd rather have a black one because it would stand out more than a white one. He's not sure if he'll be able to make it to the theatre, but