Lance awoke to the warmth of sunlight on his face. The cold and darkness of the night before seemed like a distant memory. He blinked his eyes open, squinting against the bright light. Ember was still curled up beside him, the pup's body radiating warmth and comfort.

As Lance sat up, he noticed a figure standing nearby. A man dressed in simple yet sturdy traveling clothes, with a friendly smile and a twinkle in his eye, was watching him.

"Good morning, young man," the stranger said warmly. "You gave us quite a scare. Are you all right?"

Lance rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. "I... I think so. Who are you?"

The man extended a hand to help Lance to his feet. "Name's Garret. I'm a merchant, traveling with my caravan. We found you out here, looking worse for wear. Figured you could use some help."

Lance took Garret's hand and stood up, feeling the strength return to his legs. "Thank you, Garret. My name's Lance."

Garret nodded, his expression kind. "Nice to meet you, Lance. We have a camp set up not far from here. Come, join us. We've got food and a warm fire."

Lance's stomach growled at the mention of food, and he realized just how hungry he was. "Thank you, I'd appreciate that."

With Ember trotting faithfully by his side, Lance followed Garret to the merchant's camp. It was a modest setup, with a few tents and wagons arranged in a circle. A fire crackled in the center, and the smell of cooking food filled the air.

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As they reached the camp, a few other travelers looked up and greeted Lance with friendly nods. Garret led him to the fire and handed him a bowl of stew. "Eat up. You need your strength."

Lance gratefully accepted the food, savoring each warm, delicious bite. Ember settled down beside him, happily munching on a piece of meat one of the merchants had given him.

As Lance ate, Garret sat down beside him. "So, what brings you out here all alone, Lance?"

Lance hesitated, the memories of the raid on his village still fresh and painful. "My village was attacked by bandits. I... I lost everyone. I'm on my way to the Elderglen Institute of Arcane Studies."

Garret's expression softened with sympathy. "I'm sorry to hear that, lad. The road to Elderglen is long and dangerous, especially for someone traveling alone. But you're welcome to travel with us for as long as you need."

Lance felt a surge of gratitude but quickly shook his head. "I don't want to be a burden."

Garret grinned showing a bunch of blackened teeth. "Nonsense." his face turned serious," The road to Elderglen goes through the Blackwood Forest, which is full of dire wolves, shadow fiends, and other dangerous creatures. It's not safe to travel alone."

The mention of those creatures sent a shiver down Lance's spine. He had heard stories of the Blackwood Forest and the monsters that lurked within its depths. "Thank you, Garret. I appreciate your kindness."

Garret patted Lance on the shoulder. "It's no trouble. We'll help you get to Elderglen safely."

As the day wore on, Lance found himself feeling more at ease among the travelers. The warmth of the fire, the companionship of Ember, and the kindness of the merchants gave him a renewed sense of hope. He was not alone in this journey, and with the support of his new friends, he felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

That night, as he lay under the stars with Ember by his side, Lance looked up at the sky full of gratitude. The road ahead was still uncertain, but for the first time since the attack, he felt a glimmer of hope. With Garret and the merchants' help, he would reach Elderglen and fulfill his promise to become stronger.