"I guess that shouldn't surprise me - a lot of Oneiros try to be independent loners at first," Lin smirked. "Once the reality of their situation sinks in, they change their minds. It just took a lot longer for you."

[quote]"i don't want her to get hurt because of me. and she looks like she needs rest."[/quote]

"You're right," Lin agreed, "but she wanted to come along. I told her she could accompany me as long as I handle any purifying tonight; she's to be nothing more than a scout. I certainly won't let her do any purifying after what happened last night. Hez is probably recovering from some mental cross-contamination, but she should be back to normal once we get moving."

She clutched her friend's hand and said to Alice, "It doesn't look like anyone else is around, so the three of us should be enough. Shall we get going then?"