Grouse Thicket started from the bottom

The stranger didn't attack him, which was a first. They didn't mock him or try to chase him off, which was honestly so refreshing that Screech didn't know what to do when they dipped low and appeared to invite him closer. Her voice reminded him of his friend Seelie - or maybe it was the cheerfulness they exuded that was so similar. Still, Screech knew not to drop his guard. This could be a trick.

I'm hungry too, but I'm waiting for someone. He remarked cooly, but not with the same egregious tone he usually used on strangers; he did not bristle or try to club her with his words, and settled in to an unremarkable (and uncharacteristic) seriousness. Who are you? The boy asked pointedly, choosing to fill the time with idle chatter - get to know this stranger while they waited for Redshank. The more wolves the merrier, after all.