Tour guide supreme

Kieran's anticipation had been building for this moment. Though his academic journey at the university wouldn’t officially commence until the next academic year, the opportunity for an early tour was too enticing to pass up. The university staff had been exceptionally accommodating thus far, a kindness Kieran deeply appreciated as he crossed the threshold of the university. Each step he took felt monumental, a tangible stride forward in a dream he once thought unattainable.

Despite his desire to make a bold first impression unaided by his cane, the day’s chill and the weight of the occasion nudged him to bring it along. He wore a sleek black turtleneck paired with a matching coat, and his signature black jeans. It was his hair, streaked with shades of pink, purple, and blonde that added colour. His style was further accentuated by an array of rings, strikingly long nails painted in jet black, and a touch of drama around his eyes with dark eyeliner and a hint of red eyeshadow. Clutching his pink phone, decorated with white stickers, Kieran surveyed his new environment with keen interest until his eyes landed on a figure at the location from the photo he’d received.

“Hi! My name is Kieran. I— Are you— I think this is where I’m supposed to be?” he introduced himself a little awkwardly.

The other man looked at him, mouth agape, as Kieran tilted his head slightly to the side. The other’s expression of astonishment gradually morphed into recognition, and he quickly composed himself. Introducing himself as Alastor, he deduced his role as Kieran’s guide for the day. Kieran’s response was a blend of enthusiasm and amusement. “It seems that way,” he replied with a light chuckle, his curiosity piqued by this new acquaintance.

Alastor, having been briefed about Kieran's needs, had thoughtfully planned a tour that minimised walking. The itinerary sounded perfect to Kieran: a casual visit to the cafeteria for a quick bite and a coffee, followed by a leisurely exploration of the classrooms.

When Alastor inquired about Kieran's comfort with the walking involved, Kieran reassured him with another chuckle, “Don’t worry. As long as we can keep the pace slow, I will be fine.”

In an attempt to forge a connection and gather insights about the university, Kieran ventured a question. “So… you go here? What do you study?” he asked, his tone one of genuine interest. As he waited for Alastor to lead the way, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement, despite still being undecided about his own field of study.

Kieran found himself pleasantly surprised by the kindness he encountered in his early days in Sanctum City. Despite the warnings from his friends about the supposed aloofness of city dwellers, he was met with unexpected kindness. The bustling pace of the city was undeniable, yet the people he crossed paths with seemed far from the indifferent stereotypes he’d been warned about. As he embarked on his journey, he was eager to dispel the prejudices and discover the city’s true character.

Kieran couldn't help but chuckle when the other admitted to not being accustomed to a slower pace. “Somehow, I’m unsurprised,” he commented wryly. Though their acquaintance was brief, Kieran could already sense the other’s high-paced nature, a stark contrast to his own more measured approach. He was used to moving at his own, slower, rhythm, understanding that not everyone shared his pace, and that was perfectly okay.

Kieran learned that his companion was immersed in music, having once tried fine arts before realising it wasn’t his calling. Kieran’s interest was piqued. “It sounds like you do like your current major. What’s your job? If you don’t mind telling,” he inquired with genuine curiosity.

When the query was returned, Kieran shared his own academic contemplations. “I first thought I should do something with psychology. Pay it forward and all, you know? But I think I’d really like to do creative writing,” he confessed. His childhood had been a canvas of creativity, dabbling in everything from piano to painting.

Alastor’s response to Kieran's inquiries was as enlightening as it was enthusiastic. As a music producer who not only composed but also performed his creations, Alastor seemed to embody talent and passion. Kieran listened, visibly impressed byhis dedication. “Seems like you’ve found your place in the world,” Kieran remarked with a warm smile, his words echoing genuine admiration. “I’d love to hear some of your music sometime,” he added, his interest clearly piqued.

The conversation shifted as Kieran shared his own aspirations in creative writing. Alastor’s curiosity about this field prompted Kieran to elaborate. “Yeah. It’s a Bachelor of Arts, focusing entirely on professional writing. Whether it be poetry, fiction, or even non-fiction— like memoirs, nature and travel, anything on social media, really,” Kieran detailed, his eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. “Though I’d love to write a book. I’ve always liked stories and fairytales,” he added.

Upon entering the library, Kieran was momentarily awestruck. The vast collection of books unfolded before him like a literary treasure trove. “I’ve never seen so many books,” he whispered in awe. Alastor began to explain the library’s self-service system, but Kieran was still absorbing the sheer magnitude of resources at his disposal. “You can just… take these?” he asked, a mixture of wonder and disbelief in his voice. The idea of having access to such a wealth of knowledge and stories was mesmerising; it was a place where he could easily lose himself in the world of words for hours on end.