Written by: Kaitlin P. - iWolfAngel & Co-Written by: William F. Chapter 10 Face Your Fears

Darkness, darkness was the leading role in much of Angel's life for the longest of times. At first she took pride in her quest, the duties she fulfilled, she soon lost her pride. The presence of all things foul had stained her heart, though her mission never faltered. As years went on, the lives of many were saved, and Angel exacted retribution upon all evil that crossed her her suprise, Sprites were drawn to Angel, each planet she saved, more would come, proclaiming her a Guardian.

Time and time again, Angel found herself in the White Lands, laying in the healing waters. As her blood stained the pond, and the healing took it's effect, she would reflect on many of her memories throughout the worlds she travelled. Friendships were made and lost through death, often wishing herself dead and others alive, Angel learned a hard truth; Not all can be saved, nor protected. Every tragedy, every hardship, was a grim reminder of what had happened long ago, in Middle Earth. Angel loathed herself, she wanted nothing more than to go unnoticed, she wanted no heroism nor glory.

The Dust, along with Sraet begged her to stop, for her thousand years had passed, though the darkness had taken a toll on Angel, she wished not to quit until all evil was vanquished or until her own demise. Finally, Angel was summoned, before the Man of All, and Sraet.

"What is it you want of me, my lord and lady, for I have little time to spare." Angel spoke as if all her energy had been stolen.

"Angel, it has been well over your time of banishment." Sraet stated as she paced in front of her daughter. Angel stood still, looking forward with a lifeless stare.

"I realize that, but it does not mean I need to go back."

"Angel, a darkness is about to fall over Middle Earth," the Dust explained. Angel glanced over at his direction with a sigh then looked straight ahead.

"I know, Smaug will be awoken. Who knows what terror will come to that land if a black arrow is not found? It is not my place, they do not want me there." Angel firmly established as she sighed.

"What better to fight a dragon then with the Dragon?" Sraet queried eagerly.

"Personally, I do not think it will come to that. The people of Middle Earth have a form of luck they live by. They will not need me." Her voice weak, seeming to lack emotion.

"So you have been watching over them. If you are concerned about their well being, why not go? You can help them, Angel." The Dust looking to Angel, though she gave no reply.

"Angel, would you stop and look at yourself? You are lifeless even in living. I believe going there would do good for you, bring back the glow in your hazed eyes, the ones we once knew, perhaps even a bounce in your step!" Sraet encouraged as she paused beside her daughter, examining her as she stood completely still.

"Mother, do not think me blind. I know what you are trying to do, but my answer remains no." Angel declared, annoyed with their persistence.

"Why do you fear that place? Why do you resent the thought of returning to Middle Earth? It is not going to be what you imagine, they do not hate you," the Dust insured as he moved closer. Angel didn't say a word, she just stared forward. The Dust became infused with a red tint as fury grew within him. "You will go back to Middle Earth for your next task, even if they do not need you, perhaps then you may find some peace there!" The Dust raged as he seemed to grow in size. Angel turned her head sharply to face the Man of All, her eyes opposing his words as she completely turned to him.

"I do not want to, Father. It would be unfair to me if-"

"It is unfair to us that we have to watch you suffer like this, enough is enough! You need to stop! My words are final!" The Dust's voice boomed throughout the halls of the White palace. Silver pillars seemed to crack at his voice, the white and golden rug lifted and the heavy pale doors swung. The Dust left in a wave of darkness before Angel could say another word. Bits of granite fell from the ceiling as Angel stood trembling with anger, she roared, turning her head to the sky.

"Fine! Have it your way! Though I will do things my way whether it pleases you or not!" Angel clenched her fists tight, seeming to hold in more force than the pillars of the palace itself. Sraet sighed, her face painted with dread. Painfully, she looked to Angel and spoke

"You will set out tomorrow."