The odd reactions weren't going to change any time soon. He keeps right on gaping at Gunmax, as the words wash over him. His jaw works. But no sound comes out.

Grow up, Kagebird.

I'm trying -- don't you understand that?

He nods, finally, his head bowing. His whole body seems to curl in on itself, wings flattening down. He didn't really know how to answer that. How to respond. Did he thank him? Was that even appropriate for something he wouldn't remember?

"It... means a lot," he said, at length, the words halting. "Hearing you say those things. Knowing you mean them..."