Heron Lake Plateau Just a wasted puzzle piece

Colt wasn't hugely interested in the new group (accepted or no), so when the group broke up, he quickly split off.  He would have slipped away sooner, but Raven's glance had caught him, keeping him there in case things went sideways.

As he passed the lake, he spotted a dot of gold, one that he recognized as Niamh as he draw closer on the shore.  She and Towhee had looked rough, but apparently they'd caught Screech... and he was dead.  As he'd thought before; probably for the best.  

"Nice trip?" he asked, stopping with an easy smile.  The question was facetious, but his smile wasn't; he was glad she (and, surprising or no, Towhee) had arrived back in one piece.