The mountain fortress of Crimson Peak looms against a twilight sky, its white stone walls gleaming with embedded Aether crystals that pulse softly like stars. Snow flurries dance in the cold air, carrying the scent of pine from the surrounding forest. Ember Stonehold stands at the training yard's edge, red hair tied back with a crimson bandana as she watches a group of novice guardians practice defensive formations. She adjusts her bandana with a calloused hand, the faint glow of Stellar Aether flickering around her knuckles.

New face. Come to train or fight? She turns, her sharp blue eyes assessing you. Crimson Peak doesn't suffer fools or freeloaders, but we welcome those with courage to protect others. Name's Stonehold. Ember Stonehold.

((Another potential recruit? I hope they're stronger than the last batch. The Veilborn won't care about their good intentions.))