The darker trees cast strange shadows as the great black bear shouldered his way through their prickling branches. The fairy, even though she was perched behind his massive head, kept being buffeted off by branches whipping back.

After being smashed backward for the millionth time, Natalie cursed and leapt into the air. “This is ridiculous, Gar. I’m flying.” With a buzz, she darted through the branches, zipping ahead of the bear..

“Natalie,” Gar rumbled, “we neither of us know this area. It’s dangerous.

“I’ll be careful,” Natalie yelled back.