"What kind of pressure?" Kade's voice is hard.
"Financial, mostly. Redwood's pack has been seeking Council funding for infrastructure improvements. Marcus can block that funding or approve it, depending on how Redwood votes." Helena's expression is disgusted. "It's extortion dressed as politics."
"Then we counter." Alpha Chen speaks up. "My pack can provide the funding Redwood needs, removing Marcus's leverage."
"That helps with one Councilor. He still needs two more." I study the web of connections. "Who else is vulnerable?"
"Councilor Santos, potentially. She's up for re-election next year. Marcus could support a challenger from her territory." Helena highlights another name. "And Councilor Ashland—his mate has been seeking a position on the Council's legal advisory board. Marcus con
