Exton

Laila watched quietly as Silk and the band resumed their seats. The shifter band was going to play one or two more songs and call it a night.

She turned in her seat to talk to Star and suddenly froze. There was a full-grown Bengal tiger sitting next to Star, his head resting gently on Stars lap, green eyes watching Laila.

“Oh! Does he belong to you?” The question comes out in a whisper. Laila loves cats, but has never seen one so large.

“He is Eriks. You dont have to worry, he knows you are a friend.” Star had already communicated with the big cat, telling him to watch out for her friend.

“You can pet him... he likes his ears rubbed.”

Laila tentatively reaches out, letting Riger sniff her hand. He starts to purr when she scratches a ear, making her laugh.

“You should see Panther, she is beautiful. She belongs to Raina. I havent seen her this evening though...”

Raina smiles at Star, “I think she is out hunting little sister. You can introduce her to your friend next time.”

Laila leans close to Star, “I should probably be going. Will you be at the market tomorrow?”

“Yes” Star replies. “And Alise is coming too. Do you want Erik and I to walk you home?”

“No, that would not be wise. If Rath found out I let anyone know where we are... well... I just cant. I hope you understand...”

Star nods, “I can send Tiger to walk with you...”

At this point Ramji stands and walks over to the girls and bows. "Allow me. I know the Path to walk where none would see us, especially Rath.”

He smiles, his eyes lighting just a little. "A friend already awaits us on the Path."

“All right, if you are certain...” Laila turns back to Star, hugging her. “I will see you tomorrow. Thank you... for everything...”

Star watches as Laila and Ramji leave the tavern. She leans into Erik and sighs. “We cant even know where she lives. Its just not right...”

Alise reaches over, rubs Stars back and nods. “I agree, but we dont want to make things more difficult for her. Maybe she will tell us more tomorrow.”