Born to the fierce Red Claw Clan, Ayla was never destined to become a hunter despite the massive sabertooth tiger that slept beneath her skin. Instead, she inherited another calling.

Under the guidance of the clan's elderly healer, Mother Sela, Ayla learned to mend broken bones, ease fever, deliver pups, treat venom, and preserve life in a world where survival was never guaranteed.

Everything changed when she presented as an Omega.

Promised against her will to Varok, Red Claw's ruthless war leader, Ayla faced a future of obedience rather than purpose. Knowing what awaited her, Mother Sela risked everything to help her escape on the eve of the claiming ceremony. She gave Ayla her treasured medicine satchel, concealed her trail, and paid for that kindness with her life.

Using the river to wash away her scent, Ayla fled south until exhaustion carried her into the lands of the Three Fires. Though grateful for sanctuary, she has no intention of remaining where Red Claw is most likely to search. Her hope is to one day travel farther north to the legendary Night-Pelt Tribe, where she dreams of earning a place through her healing rather than her birth.