A Trying Chapter [Theory]

Halla quickly scouted the area while Drífa waited and when she returned it seemed like there were no strange scents that might indicate Hjarrandi wolves were lurking nearby along the border. Indeed, the only wolf in the area seemed to be Theory who was swift to answer her call.

"Let me guess. You have news, and it's not good?"

Drífa dipped her head low in respectful greeting. "Thank you for meeting with me, Lady Wisteria. I am Drífa, Archemaster of Winterfell. To your question that depends very much on your perspective. It started out as bad news, to be true, but after speaking with Acere I believe I have proposal that will be mutually beneficial to both our packs. I trust from your response that Ignis indeed informed Corvus that Winterfell is to raid Abaven at the behest of Hjarrandi." Halla moved to sit down next to her, leaning just gently against her for support. Drífa appreciated it. She had never acted as an ambassador before and she did not know Theory's over all nature. Would the woman attempt to capture her as a warning to Winterfell? She better talk fast.

"Acere proposes using the raid as joint training exercise. Our warriors versus yours in a mutually beneficial training session. To the outside eyes, to Hjarrandi's eyes, it will be a raid. But the wolves of Winterfell and Abaven will know better. What Hjarrandi does not know will not hurt them. If Abaven wins we take nothing from you and you can say that you beat back the impending raiders. It will boost your reputation as a pack with fierce warriors." Drífa chose her words carefully, seeking to be as clear as possible on the potential outcomes.

"If Winterfell wins we will need a number of herbs from your stores to give to Hjarrandi. However, everything you give to us we will return with interest. I am an Archemaster of Winterfell and I have extensive herb stores and knowledge. If there is something I can't replace one for one tell me its uses and I will get you something that serves that plants purpose."

Drífa smiled gently. "So you see, Lady Wisteria, either way this false raid plays out, Abaven will gain. Would that be such terrible news?"