Thinking about several figures, none seemed quite right for what he needed. Gates was powerful, but Arthur wasn't sure if their alignment of interests would remain permanent. Other figures in his mind showed promise, but none had the perfect combination of strength and unquestioning loyalty that this opportunity demanded.
As Arthur pondered, the Flamefang Tiger approached him, nudging his hand with one of its massive heads. Arthur absently scratched behind its ear, earning a rumbling purr that vibrated through the cavern.
"The right candidate will present themselves eventually," he murmured.
For now, the hidden realm would remain sealed, its power untapped but secured. A resource to be deployed at the perfect moment. Arthur had learned patience through hardship—he could wait for the ideal recipient.
