Emberflame Ridge the new york tribune

The stranger at once looked defeated.

Severine was unbothered. She chuffed softly and the corners of her mouth gave a little tug, almost a smile; although it did not meet her eyes, it was a genuine acceptance of the moment. She knew how to handle herself around youth and awkwardness, thanks in no small part to Noah.
No, I was only exploring. Although the thought of chasing something had crossed her mind—Severine did not expect to give chase to any strong-bodied bucks, or the mothers with their young. By this point their fawns were strong enough to keep up with a racing herd, and would only grow stronger.

She looked over the boy—for that's how he seemed—and then regarded the forest around them both. Of the two of them, he seemed more out-of-place. You wanted a hunting partner? I could help.... Only, I don't know this place very well. Do you?
Unlikely as this was, the goal was to assuage the boy's sorrows and get him talking.