Using SDL

I'm currently learning to work with SDL at the moment, before moving on to openGL.
Whats the best way to define the path to the system fonts, in such a way that it will provide high compatibility?
I'm currently using getenv(WinDir) + "\\Fonts\\__.ttf" while learning.
I'm probably biting too deep to go for cross-compiling, but maybe I should develop a good habit to some of these conventions first.

We need to go deeper.

>>2
Yes lets go deeper.

I haven't opened up or looked up a lot of files/open source programs myself, but it seems that most, if not all, people use bitmap fonts.  Is it true that if I just use a .ttf fonts' visual/design in my bitmap font, it would be hard to raise copyright against me?  But this is also still somewhat nightmare for me if when I need to use JP/CN fonts...