<i>In the distance, a man hauling a milk tank was approaching. His eyes glancing about the place, but his expression calm. This wasn't the Tokyo he knew, it didn't have that feel to him. The large mansion all but confirmed his thoughts. He couldn't help but grin at the sign... and the guys next to it.</i> Aren't you a little old for this? You kids should be studying! Didn't you know you're supposed to spend your HIGH SCHOOL years frolicking about your misadventures?

<i>The wanderer holds his head straight on toward Kazuya, but almost imperceptibly assesses the group gathering at the mansion.</i> Dating? I never thought myself the dating type... too busy working. Hey, kid... <i>The man sets down his canister, and glances sidelong at Kazuya.</i> This sounds a bit fishy, but it sounds entertaining to say the least. Count me in, but not too in... I might want to drop if it gets to a certain point, y'hearin' me?

<i>Date stands silent, his expression more serious now.</i> Looks like you've done your research, good... good... It saves me the monologue! But we didn't come here to air out the skeletons in our closets, I came here to watch some youngsters attempt to woo a lady! Let's go! Let's go! <i>Date quickly regains his pace, despite a lingering feeling of suspicion manifesting toward the girl.</i> Who's up? Make it a good show!

<i>The man steps into the room, almost pleased with the simple design.</i> I guess we get to watch each other's attempts? It might be good for an easy chuckle, but don't work yourselves too hard. I can't treat broken hearts that well. I guess it's good this stuff's public, peer pressure might lead to some different actions. <i>The man eyes the sword, but says nothing. He couldn't guarantee what it'd be for, so it'd be better to just take things as they come.</i> Looks like everyone else is just as clueless as I am. Might as well make with the introductions, I'm Date, Date Akira. Nice to meet'cha!

<i>Date's expression hardens, but it maintains the happy-go-lucky aura.</i> Something important... yeah, you could say that. I've got my own worries now, there's no time for dwelling on the past! That's enough about me though, don't let me bring the mood down.

<i>Date shrugs. He isn't entirely certain how often they'd meet, if they'd ever meet again.</i> Whatever's easier for you, I'm not too picky on how people call me. I'm just here to see some poor saps embarrass themselves, if I'm being completely honest. Maybe even strike out myself, who knows! If it's all in good fun, it's fine by me. <i>Date sets the canister down, and sits atop it. It's more comfortable than the floor at least.</i> Alright we've done our intros, let's get this show on the road!

<i>Date adjusts his seat, he tenses up, but remains seated.</i> Seems like an alright guy... He's dense I'll give him that. Kind of a familiar personality...

<i>Date stands up and crosses his arms.</i> So it's not research, unless this girl's really good at acting... Yo! <i>Date holds his hand to his head, obviously disapprovingly.</i> It looks like you've got some knowledge you aren't afraid to use, but I'd at least try to make it a point to not spout everyone's history at the drop of a hat, ya gettin' me?

<i>Date continues holding his arms crossed, but his face is sterner now.</i> Looks like you're being too hard on yourself. Why don't you listen to what your heart has to say? Not whatever's goin' on in that brain of yours. If you're gonna give up like this, of course people'd feel bad around you. I know from experience that nobody likes a quitter. <i>Date's stern glare softens into a warm smile.</i> Come on, you just let some words slip, nothin' to it. Not like you told any big secrets.

<i>Akira eyes the jagged floor, and the fight on the other end of it. He begins to step forward, gently placing his foot before he'd put any weight on it. With any luck, his strategy would give him the benefit of not bleeding out in a dungeon, surrounded by strangers, only his name to comfort him.</i> &quot;One by one... it's not a race... I hope it's not a race...&quot;