If the first person that arrived here came through the portal, what would make them think they know how it selects people? I doubt a lot of the misplaced are running around willingly admitting to feeling displaced from their home worlds, if that's the case. Still, it's an interesting angle to look into. I'm not discrediting anything without looking into it first.

The library and public records seem like a good place to start. I'd also be interested in checking out the history of the actual city, supposedly there are ruins out there - they might hold answers books won't.

[At the last part, Ed actually blinks. Because dividing work was rarely a concept he was familiar with, sure before he split work with Al, but that was different for a number of reasons. It was Al, and Al couldn't sleep so he could cover more ground that way. Ed hadn't really relied on anyone like that in recent years, sure he had help in areas, but nothing like this.

Drowning yourself in all the work was what. he. did. To the point where he fell asleep on it, or someone else had to make sure he was eating.

He shrugs again, smirking as if trying to come off as over confident here. Although he's meaning it to be helpful.]

I've always had to juggle my own research with whatever assignment the military had me on. I'm sure I can handle it... No need for you to go risking your job over anything.