By: Kaitlin P. - iWolfAngel Editor: William F. Chapter 26 Run

They began their march before daylight struck, Angel prompted them to move, for a threat was near. They were coming onto a mountain trail, Bilbo scouted silently ahead, as Angel watched over him from the tree tops. It wasn't long before he came running back to the company. The pack was close, but not close enough to drive that much fear into his eyes. There was something else. She examined the area until a giant black bear came into view. Panic flooded her, as it did for Bilbo. Jumping down from branch to branch as quick as she could, she was not used to moving through trees this quick without being in her beast form. Her awkwardness in human form was her downfall, and with one slip of her foot, she tumbled to the ground behind the dwarves.

"Moon! are you alright?" Gandalf questioned as they all closed in around her. her hand swung up to stop them. Out of breath she lifted herself with her forearm, head down, pointing to the hobbit.

"Did you tell them what you saw?" She panted. Bilbo nodded as she gazed up to them. "Then what are you all still doing here? Run!" She pushed herself up and they sprinted away. They ran for what seemed like days, for Angel could not find her footing. Her panic made her want to change form, she would be faster as a wolf, and it was an instinct to change. She didn't, she fought off the urge throughout the chase, but that distraction caused her to stumble many times. She never lost her speed, though it sure felt like it. The house grew near, she stopped beside Gandalf, allowing the others to rush ahead. Plowing through the open door, they barely got through in time before the bear slammed against the strong pinewood. Once it was locked, Angel walked away from the company, and in the house rested many animals, to her delight. They had ran all day,the company of many different creatures made it all worth it. She spent the rest of the sun's light making new friends with each animal that was housed with them. The dwarves could barely believe their ears when she laughed and hugged the animals, they have never seen her so happy. Night fell, and as they all fell into slumber, Angel took this chance to sneak away.

"Ang- Moon, Where are you going?" Bilbo called to her in a whisper. He scrambled to his feet as she turned to him, raising a finger to her covered lips.

"I am going to ensure the safety of the company, don't worry." She walked off, and slipped out of the door without another sound. She climbed into an open stable, where no animal seemed to rest. It was dark, and covered at all angles, it was perfect. She threw off her tunic, armor, and the rest of her clothing, With a swift bound for the door, her body changed, blue fur sprang up, and a huge wolf took form. Galloping off into the wilderness, following the smell of both man and bear, she strived to find the skinchanger, and she did just that. Trees moved before her as she took a fighting stance, and through them, Beorn threw himself towards her, but she did not move. They stood growling at each other, she was only slightly smaller, they stood their ground.

"Who are you?" He roared.

"It is a shame you do not remember me, I was friends with-"

"All those who I cared for have fallen, you will not deceive me!" His great paw raised to her, but before it came down, black wings sprouted from Angels back. Her eyes flashed a brilliant blue and the stars seemed to brighten on her glistening fur. Beorn withdrew himself, cowering under her shadow. She stood tall, and strong, like a great warrior of old. "P-Princess Angel…! Forgive me, I thought you had fallen to fire in the night sky!" He bowed to her as questions filled his mind.

"Do not apologize, my friend. From above the stars I was forced to watch your family fall in my prison. I return to you now, to ensure that you are not alone. I may not be your race, but I can relate to your pain." Her voice seemed to carry out like a melody that soothed the creature before her. Their foreheads met in a primal embrace. "I was with those who took refuge in your home, away from the hunters mounted on wargs."

"The orcs, they are hunting you and your friends?" Angel nodded to him as his eyes whipped towards the forest.

"They may not meet your liking, but I ask for your help. I will stand guard with you tonight, and protect your land-"

"You need not strike a bargain with me, princess. You are my friend,and I am happy to find you alive. For your company, I will protect your friends, no matter who they are."