While I generally agree with you, on the last part it should be noted that the leaves were reserved for whichever team tried to actually look into the history between the two tribes in the area. Of course, out of the 4 candidates, only Wuk Lamat showed an inherent interest in learning of the cultures she visited, so one could argue it was somewhat rigged.
Guess that is the one thing Wuk Lamat learned on her journey. "when you meet people, just learn about their culture and they will be nice to you." (somehow feels like the plotpoint of a childrens show.)