[alaklondewen]

Adelard’s period of slight adoration of Mayflower Chubb fell quickly short when the sounds of shouting and struggles caught his attention. Spinning on his heals, a gasp escape his throat when he met the gaze of a great wolf that was positioned just outside the circle of the grove. Before the young hobbits could react, the beast leapt forward aiming for the horrified Adelard. The weight of the hefty animal knocked the hobbit to the ground, but it was unable to rip at the victim’s vulnerable throat because Adelard forced his forearm over his head and managed to lodge it between the jaws of the massive wolf.

As the two struggled, the other youngsters stood with mouths gaping unsure of what they could possible do to aid in their fellow hobbit. It was at this point that young Henry remembered the flint he had placed in his pocket after he had helped with the bonfire earlier that evening. Working as quickly as he could move, Henry pulled out the flint and proceeded to strike the pieces together over a dried, leafy branch that lied next to the log upon which they took their rest. May seemed to instantly understand her brother’s intent and grabbed another branch.

The produced sparks quickly took hold of the parched leaves and soon flames licked upwards generating a blaze of light that startled the wolf long enough to loosen Adelard’s bleeding arm. The young prey cried out as the teeth pulled from his skin, and he was able to kick the beast’s belly. At the same time, Henry and May, with branches ablaze, swung their weapons toward the wolf. A flaming leaf flew from Henry’s bough and landed directly between the raging wolf’s ears, causing it to cry out in pain and recoil. Adelard took the opportunity to roll out from under the beast, protecting his injury with his other arm.

The great wolf recuperated quickly and lowered himself over his haunches, ready to attack again, when a great ruckus was heard coming through the trees……….