[ He makes a note of that laugh, and files the curious detail away. She seems hesitant, and he can't blame her. Even now, he resists falling into the City's familiar rhythms and routines. It feels too much like defeat. Like he's swallowed a big bottleful of Stockholm Syndrome and allowed it to blunt his edge, his will to fight. ]

[ To her, he says only. ]

You'll get a fresh perspective once your head's clearer. [ U R K ] On that note... [ A sheepish smile, ] I should've introduced myself before launching into an explanation about the City. I'm Li Shenshung. It's nice to meet you.