Michael's arrival is less than a shock to him than for others for the simple fact that, before his arrival, he completed the task he set out to do. Whatever happened to humanity from that moment forward is on them, he at least allowed them a chance to prove that they could be better and were worth saving.

Now, leaving a modern-day city, returning to Heaven restored, and suddenly ending up in a land untouched by the skyscrapers and pollution? That is another story, so his unease has him descending the stairwell after exiting his room calmly yet with all the care of a man accustomed to battle. Even without his abilities, he is still a force to be reckoned with.

Once in the tavern, he finds what he believes to be a quiet corner of the room so that he can observe the goings on. If he catches the eye of someone, all they are given is the slightest tilt of his head (not even a nod) to show that he has seen them -- no smile, warm greeting or any other fanfare.

When he is eventually offered a drink, he murmurs a quick: "No, thank you.

Nothing in life is free, or at least that is what Michael thinks to himself as he watches some succeed and others fail. Instinct, his missing wings and his respect for humanity keep him from trying to save any who fall. Their captors would not bring them here simply to let them perish on something as meaningless as this. When someone in the crowd attempts to step forward to play the hero, he extends his arm to block their pursuit.

"If they wish to thrive here, they must do it on their own merit or it is meaningless."

Be it the resolve in his eyes or the words themselves, the individual backs down and he steps up to take his place. He may have needed his wings to fly but he needs little more than his feet to make himself soar, which he does, finding the platform. While he doesn't look back, he does call out while making his way to the next one.

"Have faith and do not be afraid to fall."

While he doesn't muscle anyone out of the way, he does linger in front of the board to commit the less mundane tasks to memory. Every bit adds up and, while being without his abilities isn't a new predicament, saving up these bones will be beneficial in the long run. When someone steps up beside him, no matter if they look like they are capable or not, he speaks up.

"Completing as many of these as possible would be in our best interest. Will you join me?"

Whether they agree or disagree he will complete the tasks regardless, so asking them neither benefits nor hinders him at this time. A battle isn't won solely through numbers and while he believes in his strength, he knows that a few of these will require more manpower. So, if he can help himself and someone else at the same time, he can stay true to his calling.