In the end, despite the fact he was distinctly unhappy about the decision, Piers didn't stand in my way when I told him, in no uncertain terms, I was going whether he liked it or not.
Kind of him to wait until we were alone to confront me with the obvious, as Damon and Stella took their leave, Cable guiding Iso out into the hall while the Sorcerers League leader held me back with a soft touch on my arm. I'd forgotten how much taller he was than me and though he was narrow physically he still towered over me, not intimidating but comforting, safe.
Except, as he leaned in to speak, voice soft and expression concerned, I realized I wasn't interested in being protected anymore. Imagine that. The tweaking discomfort maybe Leah was right about not needing anyone wasn't helping while my friend did his best to convince me to see reason.