suffocating!” Boris yelled, although a bit less loudly than before. “Especially considering Balto is not even remembering you!”

The bears, upon hearing this revelation, abruptly raised their heads, evidently taken off guard. Luk’s bottom lip began quivering. Muk was all but speechless, and could only muster up a barely audible “W-what?”

“Yes, you are hearing me right.” Boris sighed, massaging his temples. “He is only remembering me, but he is thinking that I found him not so long ago.”

Both polar bears’ eyes widened in shock. “U-uncle Boris,” Muk ventured reluctantly, “H-how’d Balto get like this?”

Boris shook his head. “That is something we’re not knowing.” He glanced over at Jenna and Balto; the female husky was gently nuzzling the pup’s side with her snout. Balto looked a little unsure, but he appeared to gradually be getting more accustomed to the older dog’s affectionate actions, even going as far as leaning further towards her to give her more chances to cuddle him. It was funny, Boris thought; Balto didn’t even remember Jenna, but he seemed so comfortable with her…

“Uncle Boris?” Muk’s voice cut through Boris’ musings.

“Huh? Oh.” Boris, upon refocusing his attention, continued explaining the situation. “All I know is, Jenna woke up, saw Balto under blanket. Balto woke up, ‘met’ Jenna, then ran and jumped all over me to wake me up.” Boris smiled. “I guess it is not really mattering how it happened, though, if Balto is alive, eh?”

“What’re ya talkin’ about, Boris?” Balto piped up from his position beside Jenna, who answered for Boris.

“It’s just boring grown-up stuff, Balto. You wouldn’t be interested.” Jenna replied , smiling.

Balto, apparently, completely took her word for it. He let out a slightly disappointed ‘oh’ and settled back down.

Boris chuckled to himself, despite the situation. <i>Always was a funny kid…</i> he thought to himself. However, along with this thought came a realization; while Balto was like this, he would need someone to care for him, provide for him, and, if necessary, protect him.

Boris let out a resigned mental sigh. <i>Well, I did it once, I can do it again.</i> He waddled over to Balto and Jenna, sharing a knowing glance with the husky.

<i>Well,</i> the goose thought to himself, smiling inwardly, <i>At least I will have a little help this time…</i>