Midnight Ambush

The darkness of the forest night was only broken by the faint glow of the moon, casting an eerie light over the campsite. Sir Valoric had fallen asleep, exhausted from the day's journey, while Scorch lay nearby, her eyes seemingly closed but actually watching the surrounding trees. The silence was short-lived, however, as the snapping of twigs and rustling of leaves signaled the approach of unwanted visitors. A group of rough-looking bandits, their faces hidden behind masks, crept towards the campsite, their eyes fixed on Scorch. They had clearly heard rumors of a valuable prize being transported through the area, and they had come to claim it for themselves. As they drew closer, one of them tripped, causing a faint noise that alerted Scorch. She immediately sat up, her ears perked, and her eyes scanning the surroundings. Sir Valoric, however, remained fast asleep, oblivious to the danger lurking nearby. The bandits, emboldened by his seeming vulnerability, made a grab for Scorch, attempting to throw a sack over her head and drag her away. But Scorch was not as helpless as she appeared. With a swift movement, she burst free from her restraints, her claws extending as she let out a fierce roar. The bandits, caught off guard by her sudden movement, stumbled backward in surprise. However, they quickly regrouped and launched a fierce attack on Scorch, hoping to overpower her. Just as it seemed that Scorch might be overwhelmed, Sir Valoric sprang to life, his sword flashing in the moonlight as he charged towards the bandits. With swift and deadly precision, he cut down the attackers, his training and experience allowing him to dispatch them with ease. The bandits, realizing they were outmatched, turned and fled into the darkness, abandoning their plans to steal Scorch. As the last of them disappeared into the trees, Sir Valoric turned to Scorch, who was watching him with a curious expression. "You're free," he said, sheathing his sword. Scorch regarded him for a moment, then nodded her great head. Sir Valoric approached her, and with a few swift motions, removed the magical collar that had bound her for so long. Scorch rubbed her neck, seeming to savor the feeling of freedom. Sir Valoric watched her, a mixture of emotions on his face. He had grown accustomed to having Scorch by his side, and he wasn't sure what the future held for them now. Scorch, sensing his gaze, turned to him, her eyes gleaming in the moonlight. For a moment, they simply looked at each other, the only sound the distant hooting of owls. Then, without a word, Scorch turned and strode into the darkness, leaving Sir Valoric to follow. He did so, his mind racing with questions about what lay ahead, and what the future held for both of them. The forest seemed to stretch out before them like an unknown path, full of dangers and surprises. But Sir Valoric was ready, his sword at the ready, and Scorch by his side. Together, they walked into the unknown.