"Thank you for going with me," Michael said as he started forward. He dragged his fingers through his wind- tossed hair and then tore his gaze off me.
After deciding to split into two groups, Michael and I had taken the path toward the pillar in the west. The others had walked to the one in the east. Since I had the shield, the sword and the breastplate, we'd decided that the two of us would be enough by ourselves. Viel had argued to come along with us, but I had told him that he would be of more help with the others. After a slight discussion, our group had split up, agreeing to meet via the Halo's portal.
Sighing, I followed Michael. "Don't thank me," I said, looking where I was going. "It was necessary. Viel would be of more use to them than he would be to us. Besides, I reckon you
