Kaidus and his father, Lord Arin, were strolling through the bustling streets of Willowdale, their village, when they came across a young girl rummaging through a trash bin. Her dirty face and tattered clothes revealed her difficult circumstances. Lord Arin's kind heart couldn't resist the sight, and he approached the girl.
"Hello, child. What's your name?" he asked gently.
The girl looked up, her piercing green eyes sparkling with a mix of fear and hope. "A-Aria, sir," she stuttered.
Lord Arin smiled. "Well, Aria, how would you like to come home with us and start a new life?"
Aria's eyes widened, and she nodded eagerly. Kaidus watched as his father lifted her up and placed her on their horse-drawn carriage.
At the castle, Lady Lirien welcomed Aria with open arms, and the girl was soon bathed, fed, and clothed in warm attire. Kaidus found himself drawn to Aria's fiery spirit and determination. As they spent more time together, he realized she was around his age, and their conversations flowed effortlessly.
One afternoon, while exploring the castle gardens, Kaidus and Aria stumbled upon a hidden clearing. Aria's eyes sparkled as she discovered a small, wildflower blooming amidst the grass. Kaidus helped her pick it, and as their hands touched, he felt an unexpected jolt of excitement.
As the sun began to set, they reluctantly parted ways, but Kaidus couldn't shake off the feeling that Aria had brought a new light into his life.
The next day, Lord Arin announced that Aria would be their new maid, and Kaidus was thrilled. Little did he know, their adventures were just beginning...
Cliffhanger: As Kaidus and Aria sat together in the carriage, returning from a trip to the village market, they noticed a group of shady figures lurking in the shadows, their eyes fixed on Aria. "What do they want?" Kaidus wondered, his protective instincts rising.
To be continued in Chapter 3...