Bramblepoint bartering, pleasantries, and consumption

Towhee yelled "grandpa" no fewer than three times, and Phox squinted at her with all the suspicion in the world. At least it sounded like the news was good based on her tone and body language. It wasn't as though Phox had any good news to share, so maybe it would be best if she went first. -Well, lay it on me, grandma!- he demanded, slapping a front foot on the ground. It was only that moment that he noticed the thing clinging to her shoulder.

-Uh, I think you've got a passenger there,- he said, pointing to the little ugly winged creature.