Exton

Pike stands at Star's back and off to one side. His eyes watch everything, while seemingly watching nothing. Wish is missing from sight, but then she was among the branches of the tree before Star ever called Ghaunt's name. This is the first she will actually see the Drow. Star says Ghaunt's heart does not belong to the Drow. That is enough for Pike. It isn't for Wish.

Pike glimpses a bit of vibrant purple among the leaves. There is no movement to betray her location. He can feel the slow drift of her spell as it creeps outward, seeking anyone who might have followed Ghaunt. When it comes to Star, Wish is unwilling to accept even Star's word for his safe passage. When she is satisfied that none have followed, or secreted a spell on his person, Wish drops to the ground beside the Drow. Ghaunt stills instantly. Pike files it away as proof the man is accustomed to a sudden appearance often accompanied by being struck.

Wish's gaze is vacant, almost as if she is blind to what is around her. She turns that unnerving stare on the Drow as she steps back, taking a place to one side, and one step back, of Erik. Her hand rests lightly on the hilt of her Human Realm blade. A small smile curls her lips.

Mouse scampers from the woods and squeaks for her attention. Eyes still focused through the Drow, Wish lowers her hand, offering her open palm to the creature. A rapid series of squeaks brings a nod from Wish and Mouse scampers up her arm. It disappears into the wild mass of her hair. Moments later bright eyes and a twitching nose peeks out of the tangled mass of Wish's multihued hair.