Aria Valerian, the second child of House Valerian, navigated the halls of the Valerian Manor.

Her small form moved quietly, slipping through the moonlit corridors like a shadow.

The heavy tapestries and ornate decor hid the scars of loneliness etched upon her young heart.

One fateful night, driven by the torment of false rumors and cruel taunts echoing within the noble halls, Aria found herself standing before a doghole.

It was a humble opening in the stone walls, an escape route known only to her and some servants.

With nimble fingers, Aria pushed aside the drapery covering the doghole and crawled into the hidden passage.

Emerging on the other side, Aria found herself amidst the outskirts of the forest, the air heavy with the scent of moss and ancient magic.

Moonbeams filtered through the dense canopy, casting a silvery glow on the forest floor.

As she ventured deeper, the distant crackling of a campfire reached her ears.

Following the sound, Aria stumbled upon the Ember Wolves, a mercenary group contracted by her father to eliminate monsters.

The flickering firelight revealed Kellan Emberheart, their formidable leader, and his band of seasoned warriors.

Kellan, with his keen senses, noticed the young girl emerging from the shadows.

His gruff exterior softened as he observed the determination in her eyes.

"Lost, little one?" Kellan's voice held a touch of concern.

Aria shook her head. "Not lost. Seeking refuge."

Kellan's gaze lingered on her cloak made out of expensive fabric that only nobles would use, recognizing the noble lineage she concealed.

Nonetheless, he gestured for her to join the Ember Wolves by the campfire.

The encounter with Kellan, forged in the moonlit woods and shrouded in secrecy, marked the beginning of Aria's journey beyond the walls of Valerian Manor.

The doghole became her portal to solace and companionship, a hidden passage leading her to the Ember Wolves and a destiny waiting to unfold.