Numbered Alleys

I'm exploring alleys and garages and basements for clues about our present civilization. What they call civilization here is a confusing amalgam of passageways that the natives fear and color with superstitions and folkways. I met another traveller today and it felt good. The kind of good that makes your fingers feel light and your feet skip tirelessly even while your guts tense with anticipation and pious restraint. I am a nun with dirty habits, but my shame feels secret and as delicious as a cookie hidden for later, better in the anticipation than in the sweet devouring.