Orihalcon Temple

The palace corridors were dimly lit by flickering torchlight that cast dancing shadows along the walls. Rich tapestries in vivid reds and blues hung between marble columns, depicting scenes from Uruk's long history. Edward's boots echoed softly on the stone floor as he walked, a lone sound in the otherwise still halls.

Most nobles had retired for the evening by now, leaving the palace feeling almost empty. But Edward knew that even in the shadows, eyes and ears still lurked, ever watchful. He moved with purpose and care - any misstep here could mean one's downfall.

At last he arrived before the Sanctum doors, far larger and more ornate than any other he had passed. The guards cut an imposing sight in their armor, but Edward had long since learned how to bend even the strongest men to his will. A few choice words and they stepped aside, though not without a hint of reluctance.

Inside, robed nobles lounging amid plush cushions, sweetleaf smoke hanging thick

Silken drapes in rich crimson hung from the high arched windows, blocking most light so that flickering oil lamps became the main illumination. Their warm glow danced across gilded walls depicting legendary heroes of old. The nobles reclined on piles of plush pillows, some embroidered with intricate threads-of-gold designs.

Lord Arlo sat atop the largest pile, leaning back on one hand casually as he puffed from an ornate pipe, exhaling perfumed clouds. His dark eyes, hooded by heavy lids, scanned a parchment lazily. The nobles around him laughed and talked in low, droning tones, paying little mind to Edward's entrance , His beady eyes narrowed at the intrusion. "Forgin. To what do we owe this... pleasure."

Edward bowed low, though his smile did not reach his eyes. "Good lord Arlo, I've come with a proposal that may interest His Majesty. But such sensitive matters require privacy." He glanced meaningfully at the others. Arlo scowled but waved a hand in dismissal. The nobles filed out grumbling, sending Edward dark looks.

Once alone, Edward began, "As you know, in three months' time the choosing will commence. I aim to ensure House Forgin sits upon the throne." Arlo scoffed. "Bold words, but you've no army or allies. What makes you think you can succeed where others have failed?"

""Because," said Edward softly, and withdrew a rolled parchment and tossed it at Arlo's feet. "Within lies the names and backgrounds of my new...compatriots"

Arlo's dark eyes scanned swiftly down the parchment, flickering in the lamplight. His thin brows rose higher with each name, a slight twist forming at his lips. Edward watched silently, allowing the lord's imagination to run freely.

When Arlo reached the last, he paused, rereading it as if unable to believe his eyes. At last he looked up, surprise etched into his features. "Moriya, a war criminal? You've formed a powder keg with this group, Forgin."

Edward smiled politely. "Each member brings unique talents that will prove...advantageous. Together they form a force unlike any other." He began recounting the names and backgrounds provided, knowing each would further pique Arlo's interest and concern.

"Arthur, son of the former Ariel. A seasoned warrior with insider knowledge of palace workings Kagami, a demon whose mystical powers and independence will strike fear into enemies. Hikari, with intelligence on all noble families Nicholas, a renowned mercenary pledged to no house but mine

Arlo's eyes never left Edward's face as he spoke, calculating gaze searching for any weakness. "Ambitious, to be sure. But controlling such dangerous elements will be no easy task. What makes you so certain of their loyalty?"

Edward smiles darkly. "Let us simply say I take...insurance, for future cooperation. My allies know that to betray me means far worse than any enemy could inflict. Their interests remain aligned with mine...for now."