The group stopped as they reached the edge of Mirkwood, dismounting from the ponies. Bilbo glanced back and saw the huge black bear watching them from the hills. Beorn was making sure that they didn't take his ponies into the forest.

"Set the ponies loose." Gandalf ordered the dwarves. "Let them return to their master."
"A shame to lose them." stated Kili as Maleficent helped him down to the ground, patting his pony's neck. "They are fine beasts."
"Yes indeed, but Master Baggins has noticed what you have not." Gandalf grumbled, pointing his staff at Kili briefly as he spoke. "Beorn has been watching us, and he will be very angry indeed if we do not keep our promise."