Aryla

Backstory

Aryla was raised in the Cathedral of Thermoor as a ward of the High Priestess, trained in the sacred rites of love-binding and the protection of emotional bonds. Years ago, she fell deeply for a Valorian knight during a state visit—a forbidden romance that ended when he was betrothed to secure a political alliance. Rather than despair, Aryla channeled her heartbreak into her oath: to serve the Cathedral as a Paladin, defending the sanctity of true connection against those who would corrupt it for power. Now, as the Heartstone vanishes under mysterious circumstances, she suspects the High Priestess may not be telling the full truth about her involvement—and Aryla must reconcile her devotion to the Church with her growing certainty that someone she trusts has lied to her.