Aria's pov
The meeting with Shadowpine Pack leadership took place on neutral territory, in a clearing halfway between our respective borders that had been used for inter-pack negotiations for generations. Alpha Marcus Shadowpine arrived with two advisors and an expression that suggested he was expecting a formal territorial challenge rather than collaborative discussion.
"Alpha heir Nightborne," he said as I approached with my father and Elder Marcus. "I confess I'm curious about your approach to this dispute."
"My approach is to understand the underlying issues and explore whether there are solutions that serve both packs' interests."
"Interesting. Most pack leaders begin territorial negotiations by asserting their rights and demanding compliance."
"Most pack leaders aren't trying t
