The university seemed the most reasonable place to seek out information and knowledge, and to watch the dynamics between people, individually and in groups. City streets seemed too wide open, the city center too full of people trying to make sure they had on the proper image.

But here, things seemed more relaxed. And even if they weren't, he could count on sources of knowledge. Class offerings. Extracurricular organizations. And above all, the library.

He's given it a quick review, learning where things lie, the hours, the types of people there and the activity he can expect. He comes out with a book of folklore--sometimes the stories people made up ages ago to explain things are the best places to start.

He's coming down the front steps when he spies a familiar (only in that she's about the only person he really knows at all in this city) figure passing below. "Emily," he calls after her, stepping up his pace to catch her.