As the moon reached its zenith, a rustle in the straw drew Isaac’s attention. The dog approached him cautiously, its movements barely making a sound. Isaac reached out a tentative hand, feeling the warm, comforting presence of the animal beside him. It was the first touch that didn’t hurt, a gentle reminder that not all the world was cruel.

The dog’s name was Valor, and it had a reputation in the village for being both fearsome and gentle—a paradox that intrigued and intimidated the townsfolk. That night, Valor curled up beside Isaac, offering warmth against the chill and a sense of security that the boy had never known.