Heron Lake Plateau Motivation proclamation

Elwood's gaze roved over each family member as he gauged their reactions. Cinder and Tywyll decided within moments that they would be staying, and said as much. Phox and Towhee, of course, would stay there together, but only the former had something to say about it. Towhee remained stoically quiet, although there was a brief shake of her head that pulled at Elwood's heartstrings. His gaze followed X as the bird left Towhee's shoulder and winged away. Tegan didn't have anything to say, either, and Elwood wasn't necessarily surprised; he had been a shadow of himself since Bat's disappearance and presumed death.

He flashed a quick smile at Clover in response to her words, then shifted his gaze to Finley as she spoke up. It was evident by her tone that it was difficult for her to say this out loud -- to make the separation real -- but he leaned supportively into her and nodded his head. There wasn't much else he felt the need to add, but he said, "We're all still family. I'm proud of each and every one of you."