Eyes narrowed to slits at Aster’s snappy retort. He knew in this moment he was evaluating her just as much as she was looking over him. He had lived most of his life within a pack and knew what it took to be a member of the ranks. His own mother had been charged with deciding who would fit into what ranks. If they were worthy enough at all. In the changes of power, he knew what a good leader could be, and he had heard the songs of the one who fell. Having been around the block and lingering around the rings of pack lands he had listened to the whispers and rumors of Alphas who ruled them. Each had their strengths and weaknesses, and each demanded something different from their pack. Steel eyes locked onto Aster. Currently none ruled over him, but he was also the master of none.

This Alpha seemed to resort to bribery to make her words heard. A flash seemed to follow the darker streak in his eye, but he held his tongue. With a glance at the dwarf wolf who also approached, Avtandil stepped forward and ripped off a solid piece of the deer, leaving much and choice meats for others. He was not so greedy to horde what was not his, and he understood a deference to those older and wiser than he. Avtandil. His introduction was short and to the point, voice still sly and holding the tone of a sarcastic drawl that had been bred into him. A brow lifted as he chewed on the meat, feigning how hungry he really was. There are many packs with open ranks, looking for ambitious wolves to fill them. Using his teeth and claws he seemed to accent his words by tearing a long piece of flesh from his chosen hunk of meat. What sets Asteraia apart from them? Packs like Glorall, and Spirane. Or even Iromar, your ally. An open invitation for a season of shelter was not one easily passed up. He had to give this alphess some credit, though his loyalty was not so easily won. Looking critically over her stature he thought her move was bold and brash. Such an opportunity could easily be taken by those who had less than appealing intentions.

Still, it was clear Aster had the young man’s undivided attention, as well as his interest in what she had to say. He was, after all, an ambitious hungry wolf.