Heron Lake Plateau so long

Finley arrived shortly after Elwood did, and both parents turned their gazes expectantly to Eljay. In a rather un-Eljay-like manner, he got right to the point, and even spoke with a confidence that was rare for the tender-hearted boy. Not only was he planning to join up with Wildfire, but Colt would be there, too. Elwood glanced at Finley at that news, sure that she would be happy to hear that her brother was sticking around, even after the mess with Niamh.

Eljay followed up his statement with a question, and Elwood heard that the familiar waver was back in his voice. It was understandable; they hadn't discussed their plans with any of their children thus far (or at least, he hadn't), and he could see how that would be unnerving for Eljay. Elwood was glad that Eljay was coming to the copse, but mostly because he had made the decision himself; he hoped that Eljay would have continued with his plans even if his parents chose to stay at the plateau.

"We're coming soon, I think," he said, looking to Finley again for confirmation.