Balto
and Steele: The story of Steele
Balto, Steele (c) Universal
Sharp (c) Taka_PL
Connell, Flann, Ulf (c) Me
>:B
Balto
entered the boiler room leaving cold wind behind his back. He knew he would be
here. And he was right. He smiled when he spotted large black and white husky
lying in the middle of the room. Balto came near and lay down next to his
step-brother.
“Nice to see you, bro.” Steele grinned.
Balto
nodded. “Steele, to be honest… well, since I know you are my brother, I would
want to hear something about your childhood… if you don‘t mind...“
“Whatever,
Balto… but… it’s quite long story.” Steele sighed.
“I
understand... if you don’t want to speak about it, then-“
“No,” Steele interrupted him, “I will tell you… maybe then you will understand my deeds and all I did few weeks ago…”
**********
Steele
tried to grab ear of his mother and when he managed it, he yelped with
excitement.
Mother
looked at him and smiled. “That’s my little Steele…” and nuzzled her son.
“I love
you, mommy…” he laughed as her nose met his cheek.
Mother
smiled too and made few strokes with her tongue over his tummy. Steele squirmed
in pleasure. “It tickles!” he tried to grab mum’s maw. She hugged him and
whispered: “You are my one and only... I won’t give you to anybody, honey.”
Then door
opened and two men came in. One was the owner of Steele and the second…
Well, he
didn’t look like pleasant and outgoing one. Steele’s mother slightly growled,
but then she realized what was going to happen.
“No…” she
whispered in awe.
“Mum? Something wrong?” Steele wondered.
“… I think
$100 is little bit too much for a pup like this.” The unknown one said.
“Trust me,
he’s worth it. You will get really great sledge dog. His father-“
“I don’t
care about his father…” Man kneeled and took a look at Steele. He scowled then
and Steele hugged his mom. The look of man’s eyes was cold and unfriendly.
“Mum?”
Steele whispered.
Man stood up and smirked. “I’ll give you $80. Not more.”
Steele’s
owner thought about it for a while and then he smiled. “Deal! You won’t regret
it mister Sorley!”
Steele’s
mum knew what it meant. Her eyes were full of tears, but there was nothing she
could do.
“Steele…
promise me that you will… that you will make me proud of you. And don’t forget
me and your dad…” She hugged his son as her tears were falling on his fur.
“Mum… why are you saying things like-“ But then cold and unknown hands grabbed him.
He yelped.
“Mum! What are they doing? Where are they taking me? Mum!” He shouted, but his
mum closed her eyes and cried quietly.
“My Steele…
my Steele…”
Later that
day, Steele’s father Sharp came home. He found his
mate in tears and despair.
“Love, where is Steele?” He asked, but then he realized it. She looked at him with her tear- stained eyes and sobbed: “Sharp… Steele’s gone…”
He lay near
her and hugged her. “It’s all right, love… he will be all right. Hush… he will
make us proud…” And although he was considered to be strong as a lead dog, his
eyes became wet too.
**********
“I’ve… I’ve never seen them again…” Steele whined. Balto laid comforting paw on his shoulder: “I am sorry, Steele.” And he didn’t know what else to say.
‘Steele, I
know how you feel right now. I... I am so sorry for that.’ Those words echoed
in his head, but his tongue refused to work. It was better to stay quiet.
Balto
admitted he hadn’t known this side of Steele till now. Steele had been keeping
all these feelings and memories and he hadn’t had anybody to share with.
Steele continued.
**********
His new
owner lived in
Man’s behavior
changed, as he met his dogs again. Eyes changed, now they were friendly and
happy, voice went smoother and calmer and Steele knew this man loved his dogs
more than people.
“Oh, oh…
easy, you! Look, I brought a new one!” man laughed and he set Steele free.
Steele laid his ears back and was scared. Too many new and unknown dogs…
“So… meet
Steele!” Man smiled and went to the kitchen to get some food.
Dogs stood aside as one of them came to Steele. It was gray and white husky, looking like his dad, but… his dad would never watch him with hostility and threats in his eyes. Dog sniffed and then he smirked. “Garbage…” Two or three dogs laughed, but they stopped as one female frowned and growled. “Connell, leave him be! He is just a scared pup! You were the same!”
Connell
turned his head. “Ah, Flann, nice as always… shut up.” But Flann pushed Connell
aside and sat in front of Steele. “Hi, Steele… I am Flann. I hope we will be
friends.” She smiled and nuzzled him.
‘Like my
mum…’ Steele thought as her nose met his chest. “Mum…” He whispered. He had
been with her in the morning, but now… unknown dogs around him.
“You want
your mum, don’t you?” Flann whispered in silent question. Of course he missed
her so much. He nodded and heard Connell’s laugh. Flann turned and sent Connell
look full of… well, Steele didn’t see it, but he was pretty sure it had to be
look full of something dangerous because Connell shut up immediately. Flann gently picked Steele up by the scruff and laid him in her bed.
“It will be good. Don’t pay attention to Connell… he is big headed jerk.” She smiled. Steele whispered silent thanks and looked at her. Now, he had enough time to see her better. Her fur hadn’t the same colour as his mother’s or father’s was. It was the first time in his life he saw husky with reddish brown fur.
“I know you are frightened and lone…” Flann lay near him. “… and you
miss your mum. But, I will be there for you, Steele. I’ll be your mum… hope you
will accept it…” She nuzzled him softly and Steele nestled up near her, feeling
her warm body, hearing her heartbeat.
‘Like my mum…’ he sobbed and he hid his head in her soft and dense fur.
Flann smiled. She was the only female in Connell’s team and although
young, about one year, she wanted to have pups. And Steele… she accepted him
like son of her own. “Don’t be afraid, Steele.
I will take a good care for you…”
“Ohhh… look who fell for that little brat!” It was Connell who was
watching them all the time. He came near and smirked.
“Connell, shut up...” Flann hissed as he smirked.
“Come on, Flann. What do you say about little-“ He brushed his tail
agains her side, licking his muzzle lustfully. But Flann pushed him aside.
“I don’t want you. And I never will. I thought I made it clear long time ago!” Flann growled.
“Maybe you will change your mind after-“
“Get out! Even if you were the last dog in this goddamned world, I
wouldn’t be your mate!” She shouted.
“It’s because of him, isn’t it?!” Connell shouted too, pointing at
Steele.
“Ah, you are so paranoid, Connell! Just face it! I don’t want you!”
Connell just gave her a look full of sorrow. “This is mistake, Flann...
you are making one of your worst mistakes.” He raised his eyebrows. And that
was too much. Flann slapped him.
“GET OUT, YOU IDIOT!”
Connell scowled. “We will see... we will see...” he murmured and left
the room.
Next few months were full of exciting and new events. At least for
Steele. Flann adopted him completely, sharing with him her food, sleeping with
him in one bed. He was still young, still puppy. And the other dogs accepted
him apart from Connell. It wasn’t hate that Steele saw in Connell face every
time he looked at him. It was pure hostility. And the reasons why Steele hadn’t
been dead yet were Flann and master Sorley. She had great influence in the
pack, and master... Well, you won’t bite hand that gives you food, will you?
**********
“I see,” Balto said when Steele stopped and went to nearby bowl of water.
“So, Flann was like Jenna?”
“Hmmm...” Steele nodded with tongue in the bowl. “But...,” he raised his
head again, “I’d prefer to talk about her in the present time. She IS. I
believe she is.”
“So, Flann is something like mother for you?” Balto gave another
question.
“Well,” Steele shook his head, “You will see...”
**********
Almost one year passed. One year of news and experience.
Steele yawned as Flann’s nose nudged him gently. Now, he was almost
mature dog, he had his own bed right near Flann.
“Wake up, Steele, today is the great day for you.”
Steele murmured something like: It
can wait a little bit longer..., but Flann kept nudging him until he opened
his eyes. And his look met window and falling snow. In fact, snow was falling
down for few days and it meant just one thing. Sledge and mushing. Sorley was
really eager. He had been preparing harnesses and sledge for few days and now
he was ready.
“Mu-... uh, Flann? Great day? Why?” Steele yelped. He almost called
Flann mum again as he had done many times before.
She smiled and nuzzled him. But now, Steele wasn’t puppy anymore. He was
young and strong dog and Flann knew the old times were gone. In fact, they
became really good friends. Yes, she was almost year and a half older than he
was, but... but... there was maybe something more than friendship...
“Your first action, do you remember?” She winked.
Of course! Oh, how he could forget! Mushing! Yes, he pulled sledge few
times before and was in harness, too, but today... it was his first real ride!
“Oh yes,” he licked her maw as always. But he realized now it wasn’t
like few weeks ago. Now, it wasn’t puppy’s affection. It was kiss... And she
knew, too. She blushed slightly.
“We should be quick... Don’t let the others waiting...” She licked his
maw, too.
Steele got up slowly. Today, he had to prove he was worth that $80 that
had been paid for him almost year ago. He followed Flann outside.
Connell sighed as he spotted them. All he wanted was Flann’s love, but
she kept claiming she didn’t like him. And the worst thing was Connell thought
it was because of Steele. He smirked and pushed Steele away hissing: “Our little
Steele… I will make sure you will mess it up! And… stay away from Flann!”
Steele growled, but it was all he could do, because master called him.
“Connell… one day, I will kill you…” He swore as he was running to his
master.
Connell didn’t hear this and brushed his body against Flann’s. “Flann?”
“Connell… I thought it was over. But you are still the same! I said NO!”
Flann snapped.
“You won’t regret it… I am better than that scum…” Connell continued,
licking his maw and tickling her under her chin with his tail.
“His name is Steele and I don’t love him!” But fro loving part, she wasn't so sure...
“I see…” Connell licked her back.
“And what if? It’s not your business!” Flann shouted and knocked Connell
down, although he was stronger and larger. She scowled and trotted away.
Connell stood up. “We will see, Flann… we will see…”
Steele felt great. He knew being sledge dog is something he was born
for. And he thought his mother and father would be proud. But there was
something disturbing. Although his master knew he is new and inexperienced, he
placed him right behind Connell, by Flann’s side.
Suddenly, he felt so nervous. He wanted to show off; he wanted to prove
to Flann she didn’t give her care to somebody who didn’t deserve it. And… he
didn’t want to fail. Connell would make hell from his life, if he did so…
He looked back nervously. Other team members were in a good mood,
chatting with each other and joking, but his heart was shrunken, especially
when he saw Flann. Her face wasn’t happy and cheerful as always but when she
saw Steele, she smiled.
“Hope you will do your best…” she nuzzled him. Steele gasped. Connell
was coming. And his look… He had never seen Connell like this.
“Remember, scum,” Connell growled when he took his leading position, “you will be always the second!”
**********
“Always second…” Steele sighed.
Balto smiled. “He was wrong. You were… I mean you are great. And you are
the champion-”
Steele growled. He couldn’t forget that diphtheria matter. He still
thought Balto ruined his life, took
Jenna away from him and … and… of course, it was his own mistake, but he was
still angry because nobody even noticed that he, Steele, made more than a half
of the journey for serum. If Balto wasn’t his half-brother, he would at least
hurt him so much.
And Balto realized it, obviously.
“Sorry, bro,” he whispered silently. “You did great work on the serum
run, too…”
Steele shrunk. “No… Connell was right. I am and I will be always the
second… lemme continue…”
**********
Sled was
riding through the outskirts of the city where Steele lived. He did well… or he
hadn’t been told he was doing something wrong yet.
But Connell
didn’t forget. He suddenly slowed and changed the rhythm. Steele was inexperienced
and didn’t expect anything like this. His legs betrayed him. He tripped and
fell down. And the rest of the team went with him. Clouds of snow raised by the
fall hid whole scene. Just barking and howling showed something unusual was
happening.
When snow
fell down again there wasn’t single dog that was standing or was all right.
Just one furry pile of bodies, imprisoned in harnesses and each member of this
pile tried to get out desperately barking and biting everything around him or
her.
And musher
was down too. He got up sighing and set each dog free.
Connell
looked at his team: “Everybody is all right?” He asked with well-pretended
care. And when he saw nobody was hurt seriously he scowled. “And… I have one
question…who, the hell, did this?!” He
didn’t wait for answer and pointed at Steele. “Steele! Do you realize you could
kill somebody because of you ignorance a total lack of caution? You put whole
team in danger!” Connell shouted and bared his fangs. “And therefore you will
be punished…”
“But it’s
not-“ Steele yelped, but Connell grabbed him by scruff and threw aside. As
Steele hit the ground, Connell jumped on him and bit him in the flank. Steele
yelped again. Another bite was for his tummy. Steele cried with pain.
“Connell!
Stop it!” Flann yelled as she saw this. But others stayed calm and watched the
whole scene without any expression on their faces and without interest.
Connell was
their leader. And he was right. At least according to them. “Help him!” Flann
shouted, but when she saw no interest, she jumped between Steele and Connell.
“Leave him
be, Connell!”
Connell
smirked and kicked Steele hardly. Then he turned away acting like he had
achieved great victory. Flann looked into Steele’s blue eyes. They were full of
pain and despair. It was the look of one who was betrayed. Steele couldn’t
believe it…
“Flann…
but… it was Connell’s mistake…” he cried. Flann’s eyes were full of tears, too.
“Steele… I
am so sorry…” she nuzzled him. If she hadn’t liked Connell before, she hated
him now. Then she noticed Steele was bleeding. It wasn’t anything serious. But
his psychical injuries were much more painful and greater than few wounds on
his body.
It was the
first time in his life he was betrayed, accused of something he didn’t do and
punished wrongfully and unjustly. And the most painful thing was Connell
planned this and nobody stopped him. Nobody but Flann.
The ride
home was something terrible for Steele. It was his worst ride he had ever had.
When they
arrived home, he jumped to his bed, curled up under his blanket and sobbed.
Nobody paid attention. Connell smiled and he was so satisfied with himself. He
showed Steele who was the leader. And he knew nobody would dare to speak with
Steele. Because then the one, who would do this, would risk his anger. And
nobody wanted to be Connell’s enemy. But there was somebody who didn’t care at
all.
Flann
curled up around the blanket which was roughly shaped like Steele’s body and
whispered.
“Steele…
are you all right?”
No
response.
“Steele…
come on.” She nuzzled him, but nothing happened again. She was full of
compassion and sorrow. And she wanted to comfort him so much.
Flann
carefully raised the blanket a little and put it over her body too. Now, she
was with Steele under the one blanket like it was their little shelter from
Connell and the outer world.
He looked
at her with same expression he had right after Connell’s attack.
She lowered
her ears and whispered: “I am so sorry…”
Her little…
no, her Steele went through such great pain. Her muzzle was so close to his…
She kissed
him. “My Steele…” she cried kissing him. She suddenly realized she loved him
not like before. She loved him as a man… not as her ‘son’ anymore.
“Flann…” he
whispered. “I need you so much…”
**********
Steele
turned his head away. All these memories were too much for him. And he didn’t
want Balto to see him crying. “Flann…” He whispered. “I miss you so much…”
Balto
sighed quietly. This part of Steele was completely unknown to him.
**********
Few days
passed. Connell seemed he forgot and everything was going well. But things
turned to be really interesting when annual dog sled race came. Mushers and their
dogs traversed to
Steele got
closer to Flann more than ever before. He liked… no, he loved her.
“Flann… I
swear I’ll be the fastest and greatest sledge dog on the whole world. I want
you to be proud of me and I want to be good enough for you, because you deserve
only the best.”
He
whispered as Flann was lying by his side in his bed. He didn’t know how much
these sentences would change his life.
He began to
work really hard. Now, he was the first who was ussually up and the last one
who went asleep. He spent his free time not as the others lying and resting. He
ran around the house till he felt the pain and was almost completely exhausted
every day. He worked hard and the results came. His body went stronger, his
muscles grewth and he was satisfied when he heard other dogs saying things
like: Oh, look at Steele, now, this is what I call determination! He is doing
really hard! And he will be great, I have to say…
But Steele
was happiest each evening he could sleep near his love. He overgrew her soon
and now it was Steele who was curled around Flann.
But still…
there was someone. Someone who wanted Flann and who hated Steele. Connell.
He knew
great race was coming, but he couldn’t make any good plan. When he saw Flann
with Steele his mind was full of anger and hatred. So he decided to wait for
Steele’s or Flann’s mistake. And he knew it would come now or later.
Finally,
the day of the race came. Weather was really fine sky was like from some cheap
picture. Almost clean and these few clouds were cruising it like they hadn’t
got anything better to do. And maybe it was thanks to the weather and
expectance of something really big that everyone was eager and restless. Mainly
Steele, because it was his very first race. He swore he would do his best. And
he didn’t want to fail Flann… and of course his parents.
They woke
up early in the morning the master checked harnesses and sledges and gathered his
dogs. He knew very well Steele had got potential and was really good. And since
he knew this, he believed they could win this year. Last year, they almost
managed to win, but there was Quinlain’s team. Quinlain was musher living near
The wolfdog
was called Ulf. And he knew he was special. He knew it very well… And he was acting
according to it. His self-confidence was almost greater than his ego which grew
to really amazing dimensions.
Now, Ulf
and his sidekicks were sitting down and rating the other teams.
“Hey… who
is this?” Ulf suddenly frowned as his eyes met Steele. This well-built stranger
was nothing pleasant for him. He knew other dogs well and his observation
skills were so good he could tell how will dog run or how good sledge dog it
is. But he was unsure about Steele.
“That? Heh,
just another junk from Connell’s team,” one of the sidekicks smirked.
“Junk? Do
you know him?”
“Well… uhm…
no, but I am sure-“
“So then
shut up!” Ulf snapped. “I will find out… I don’t want to underestimate
anybody.”
Flann was
walking by Steele’s side. And she was proud of him. Her little Steele was now
her boyfriend. Yes, she knew it sounded really weird, but she fell for her
‘pup’.
But
suddenly, she was pushed aside. No, she was thrown aside and her left rear paw
hit the sledge standing nearby. She yelped. Steele turned his head, but instead
of his love, there was somebody different. Ulf. Steele growled: “Hey, who do
you think you are?”
Ulf smirked
and he showed off his collar. It was the Golden collar. Golden for the greatest
lead dog. But Steele didn’t know that.
“If you
think you can toss other’s friends, you are terribly wrong, you…” Steele looked
at Ulf better, “You mutt!”
Ulf
smirked. “Mutt... oh. But it’s better to be mutt champion than purebred zero.”
And when Ulf saw there was nothing to do, he went back to his team. And he was
sure Steele was nothing but useless scum.
Steele’s
master entered the race on short track. It was sprint long about one mile,
ideal for showing top speed and musher’s ability to control the sledge in great
speed. Rules were simple. Two teams started and the one which won made it to
the next leg, while the second team was out. Simple eliminating way.
And the
prize for the fastest? Money and the golden collar for lead dog. And there was
somebody who wanted the golden collar more than Steele. Connell. So therefore
he was quite worried when he made out Steele was right behind him. He had two
choices.
He could
ruin the race and make Steele responsible for it. But if he did this, his dream for the golden
collar would disappear.
Race began.
Crowds of people were standing along the track for this race was really quick
and attractive. Flann kept watching other racers then she turned to Steele and
whispered. “Steele... promise me something. It’s your great day, so... don’t
look after me. I mean, don’t pay attention to me... just don’t stop.”
Steele
wondered, but when he noticed her look slipped at her paw which had hit the
sledge, he scowled. “No, Flann... I don’t want to win at the cost of your
health...” But Flann growled. “No... It’s your day. You promised you will be
the greatest sledge dog. And don’t break your promise.” She let master to
harness her and smiled at Steele. Steele looked forward and saw Connell’s tail.
And then Connell turned his head and hissed. “Don’t even think of ruining
this... do single mistake and I’ll kill you.”
“Whatever,
Connell...”
First leg
was really easy. Everyone knew there were two teams which were much better than
the others. It was Connell’s and Ulf’s. And of course these two teams made it
to the final.
Crowd was
restless. People knew this race would tell who was the best. Teams gathered in
front of starting line...
“Oh... so
Connell... do you really thing you can win?” Ulf taunted him.
“I am
pretty sure, mutt...” Connell smirked.
Just few
seconds more...
They
started.
Both teams
were just warmed up... each dog was saving its true power and strenght for this
last round. Ulf’s reaction was slightly quicker than Connell’s, so his team
advanced a little bit.
But Connell
accelerated. Track was really smooth and quick, and no wonder. Many of sledges
had ridden there. But now, there were just two teams... all or nothing...
Steele felt
great as his paws were hitting the ground and helping his team to run. And the
finish was closer and closer. Yes... now, Connell was in front of Ulf... just
keep running and they would win...
Flann
yelped. All this running was so much for her leg. Something cracked... And
Steele realized there was something wrong. He looked back quickly and saw just
Flann’s face. Face full of pain. But she was quiet. She didn’t want to ruin
Steele’s great day.
But no...
This isn’t right...
I don’t want to win at such cost...
Steele
slowed...
Connell
gasped when he felt sledge went slower suddenly. He glanced back. Steele. Of
course...
They lost.
Crowd
cheered as Ulf’s team ran throught the finish and didn’t pay attention to
Connell’s.
Musher got
off the sledge and amazed why dogs slowed so suddenly. He unharnessed all of
them and when he set Connell free, and then.... Lead dog jumped at Steele,
snarling. His eyes were full of hatred, anger and his expression was full of
madness.
“You
bastard! You d*mned bastard! You ruined everything you could! Why did you
stopped?” Connell’s fangs were unpleasantly close to Steele’s throat. “And
think twice... this is going to be your last sentence!”
Steele was
shocked. Connell obviously knew about Flann’s injury. But he was pretending he
didn’t. “It’s not my fault! Flann is hurt! Can’t you see?!”
Connell
laughed. “And what?!”
And in that
moment Steele realized there was the one who wanted to win at all costs...
“But... you
ruined it for whole team! Guys! Get him!” Dogs didn’t wait, jumped at Steele
and began biting and tearing him. There was nothing but pile of dogs and pain
and blood. Flann jumped and tried to protect Steele, but Connell pushed her
away.
“Connell,
you son of a-... it’s not his fault!”
Connell
stopped ripping Steele’s fur off. “Yes? And whose, then?”
“Leave him
be! He did it because of me! You see!? He has got heart! He can see other’s
feelings, not like you! And therefore I love him, whereas you... you are
nothing but worthless scum!” She cried when she saw Connell’s smirk.
It’s told
that gunshots bring death. But this one saved Steele’s life. Steele’s musher was
standing near, holding his smoking gun. And he was scowling. That was the first
time he was with his dogs and he was scowling...
Reaction
was sudden. Dogs pulled their tails between their legs and lowered ears, crowd
stopped shouting and every dog and man was looking at Steele’s musher. He
kneeled in front of Steele and patted him.
“My
Steele...” he whispered, lifted Steele’s body and then he loaded him onto the
sledge. Then he let Flann to jump on the sledge, too.
He didn’t
say a word, grabbed the sledge and headed away followed by his dogs.
There was
somebody who was laughing all the time. It was Ulf.
-----
Few hours
later
Steele
opened his eyes. Pain was still there, but it was not as great as it had been
when Connell and the rest had been tearing him. He tried to move, but it was
hard. He noticed bandages over different part of his body and the bandages were
stained in blood. He blinked four or five times... yes... he was in his bed. He
was at home.
“Steele!
You are awake!”
It was
Flann. Her paw was bandaged too.
“Flann?”
Steele murmured and looked at her like he couldn’t believe his ears. His look
fell on her paw. “Flann? Are you hurt?!” He yelped, but even speaking was hard.
“It’s all
right, Steele... it’s not broken. I will have to rest for three or four weeks,
though. And they say you will have to take good rest, too.” she smiled happily.
Then his
thoughts caught up with his tongue.
“Connell?
Where is Connell?”
Flann
grinned. “Master was really furious but he didn’t punish him... for he doesn’t
believe punishments are good and so on. But don’t think about him.”
“Flann, I
ruined the race...” Steele was desperate. Flann nuzzled him. “No, Steele... you
didn’t. You did just the right thing. I am so happy that I wasn’t wrong about
you. You are completely different than Connell.”
And that
was more then stupid Golden collar for Steele. Flann was proud of him. And his
parents would be proud as well.
But still... Now it seemed he could be punished even for doing the right thing.
Next four
weeks were the four happiest weeks in Steele’s life. Master and the rest of the
dogs left early in the morning each day, so he could be with Flann alone. And
now it wasn’t just plain phrase: ‘I love you.’ they fell for each other more
than they would ever imagine.
Steele
found out Flann grew up in
As it was
said it was the four happiest weeks in Steele’s life. Even Connell stopped to
show him his hatred and anger and Steele thought it was all right. And he was
wrong.
But time
can’t stop. It’s going on. And that’s pity... or maybe for the best.
Flann’s paw
was all right. She was even able to run, so she was happy and optimistic as usual.
And Steele’s wounds? They healed quickly, too.
And tomorrow,
they will return to their duties as sledge dogs.
Steele was
lying in is bed, Flann nuzzled his chest. He was half asleep, but he heard
Flann’s wish clearly. “Steele? I-... Do you think you could answer just one
question for me...?”
“Of course,
love.”
Flann licked
his muzzle and whispered: “Steele, will you be my mate?”
Steele’s
eyes melted. “Flann... I want to be your mate... It’s all I want.”
Flann
smiled and kissed him. “I am so happy, love. I am so happy...”
**********
“Yeah… I
was happy, too…” Steele smirked and watched Balto who didn’t believe his ears.
So… Steele
hadn’t been big headed egoist all the time. In fact Balto couldn’t realize
Steele helped somebody. Steele sacrificed the race for Flann.
“I see..,”
Steele leaned his head, “she was lucky I was … I was good one these days…”
**********
Later that
day Connell came to Flann who was lying on her bed.
“Hello,
Flann… what about the paw? Are you better? We miss you a lot.”
Flann
scowled. He hadn’t been paying attention to her from the race… and now, he was
friendly.
“Connell,
what do you want?” she growled. Connell sighed and replied: “I was thinking a
lot about everything. About me, you, Steele… and all. I’ve changed, Flann. I
just want to say sorry to you.”
There was
something strange in his voice. It was maybe sorrow or something like this.
Flann
looked into his eyes. They were different, too. But she couldn’t say if they
were good or bad. “Let’s take a short walk… It will be good for you… and for
the paw, too.”
And Connell
sounded so pleasant she nodded: “You are right… and if you’ve changed, then
I’ll enjoy your company… but you should know I love Steele.”
Connell
didn’t act like she expected. He just sighed. “I see… hope you are happy with
him.”
Connell led
her to nearby forest. And he was apologizing for his deeds all the time. And he
asked about lot of things… and Flann realized Connell wasn’t as bad as she had
ever thought.
Suddenly,
Connell stopped and waited for Flann. He was standing near rapid river which
was forming waterfall down the stream. He looked at Flann and smiled. She
nodded and drank from the river. “It’s nice, Flann… like you…”
“Oh,
Connell, don’t waste your breath…” she blushed, but then something happened…
Connell
knocked her down and his expression changed from well pretended care to pure
anger. “Good good good… so I see I have no other choice!” He stood over and
licked his muzzle. Flann realized he took her here just to rape her.
“Connell!
You…” But his paw silenced her. He was much stronger and Flann was weakened by
four weeks of doing nothing.
“Connell, I
beg you!” She wanted to shout, but paw didn’t let her to say. She burst into
tears and prepared herself for the worst.
He licked
her cheeks, quaking in excitement.
“Now, I’ll
take what’s mine!” He smirked drooling.
“Then take
this!” Somebody shouted and Flann realized she’d never been so happy to hear
Steele’s voice. And in one quick moment Connell was thrown off her body.
“You!” He snarled and stood up quickly. He was sure he would defeat Steele quickly and then he would continue in his work. But he was wrong.
He leapt and
pinned Steele to the ground and when he realized Steele’s head was above water,
he pushed it down by his paw.
Yes, that is it. Let’s try to drown him!
Steele,
running out of air did the only thing he could. He kicked with all his strength
with his rear paws and to his amazement Connell flew over his head and landed
in the river. Stream began to carry him to waterfall. And although it was quite
small one there were sharp rock under it. Connell struggled. He knew he was
going to die. And because he hadn’t anything to lose he shouted. “Steele!
Flann! Help-“ But water didn’t let him say more. He gasped for breath but water
was everywhere. And then…
Waterfall…
Flann
closed her eyes and cried when Connell fell down. She knew him for so long… and
although he tried to rape her, she simply couldn’t imagine Connell was dead. He
was the lead dog… He was… and he was no more. Steele ran to her and hugged her.
“It’s over,
love… It’s over…” He whispered as she was crying on his chest.
“Let’s go
home, love…” Steele whispered.
When they
returned, the rest of dogs acted somehow differently. They were looking at
Steele like he was their hero. Obviously, Connell had been boasting with his
plan, but he had kept mouths of the others shut. And he had been sure they’d
done, because there was just two who could oppose him. Steele and –of course-
Flann. They had been too weak to stop Connell and when Steele’d found out, he
had gone and had saved Flann. Noone aksed what happened to Connell. Actually,
they were glad Connell was gone.
Steele just
smirked when he realized they were such cowards. He cuddled near Flann and
whispered comforting words to her. But she was sobbing and quaking. It was too
much. First, Connell betrayed her. Then he tried to rape her. And then… Steele
came and saved her. Connell died in waterfall. There is was just one question
she wanted to be answered.
“Connell…
why?” She cried and Steele hugged her. And the room was quiet. Just Flann’s
sobbing and cracking of the wood in fireplace was filling entire room.
When master
found out Connell was missing, he went outside the house calling Connell. The
night was coming and Master was afraid. There were wolves and bears around
‘Maybe he
is somewhere in the streets…’ Master thought, but it was just wish. He was the
only one who loved Connell. He headed back, but he left door opened… just for
the case of Connell’s return…
Flann was
still shaking. “Steele, I... can’t believe it. Connell-“
Steele
scowled. “He got what he deserved. But he is dead… he won’t hurt anybody no
more…”
Door
opened.
And inside
crawled…
“Conell!”
Steele and Flann shouted.
Master
Sorley was in the kitchen when he heard such unusual noise. He almost jumped to
the other room and when he saw Connell, his eyes went wet… he saw the pain
Connell was in.
“Boy, what
happened to you?” Mater almost cried. Connell whined and looked at two of his legs.
They were broken. But it wasn’t all. Rocks and stones had left several
scratches on his body and one or two were really deep. And the fall’d broken
few of his ribs.
But the
greatest change was in Connell’s eyes. He had look of a broken dog. He lost
all. He lost meaning of life. With one rear and one front leg broken it was
sure Connell would never race again. Sorley dragged Connell’s bed in front of
the fireplace and laid Connell in it carefully. Then he placed warm blanket
over Connell’s body and ran for the vet.
Nobody
greeted Connell. Nobody was worried or sorry for him. It was quiet, until
Flann came
closer to Connell and her eyes were full of tears. Now she saw there were much
worse things than the death. Connell lost his career, his so called friends,
his respect and everything he’d got. She nuzzled him softly and sobbed. Flann
was so sorry for him, no matter he tried to kill Steele and rape her… Steele
watched Connell but he didn’t want to say anything. He was sorry for him but he
wasn’t like Flann. Connell wanted him dead… Connell accused him and hurt him a
lot of times… and Connell hurt his love…
But this
wasn’t Connell anymore. This Connell was close to the death. Old Connell… that
was boastful and egoistic dog. This one was … just the broken one. But dogs
didn’t bother themselves with any compassion.
Master was
back quickly. Without a word he led the vet to Connell.
“Oh my…
what did he do? Like he fell down from a cliff or what…” Vet wondered. “Well, if
I was in your position, I’d shoot him.” But Sorley shook his head. “No. There
must be the way you can help him.” Vet looked worried. “It is, but… he won’t be
able to race again. He’ll be useless.” Master stood up. “And what? It’s my dog!
I’ll pay you as much as you want but please, do your best.” Vet nodded and did
everything he was able to do… and after a while he was done. He took money,
said something about Connell and left. And
according to Sorley’s face it was bad. But Connell didn’t say a word and stared
to the flames. He didn’t blame anybody… he didn’t say anything. It was over…
One thing
was sure. Connell’s team needed new lead dog. Sorley sat down sighing and
watching his dogs. He knew them very well… and he knew there was no one who
could be good replacement for Connell. His look shifted from one dog to another
and it ended on Steele. Master patted him. “Steele… we’ll give it a try with
you…” he smiled weakly, but Steele went almost mad. He jumped placing his paws
on Sorley’s shoulders and licked his face. He yelped with excitement and
happiness. He was a lead dog! He glanced back at the rest of dogs and they
seemed all right. Flann closed her eyes and nuzzled Steele. Her Steele reached
his position he dreamt of. Connell didn’t say anything again. He was watching
the flames and that was quite… quite scary. Steele expected Connell would sigh
or something, but nothing. Steele jumped back and nuzzled Flann. She whispered
something into his ear and he giggled. Then he looked at his teammates and
said: “I promise I’ll be a good leader of our team. And I hope… and I hope I
will be at least as good as Connell.” His eyes met Connell’s and that was the
first time when Steele saw something different than hatred in them. He saw …
well… he saw nothing in particular. Connell’s look was empty.
**********
Balto was
looking from the window while listening to Steele. Then he turned his head and
looked into his brother’s eyes. Now, Balto was sorry for Connell. He didn’t
know why, but he was. This dog had lost everything… almost like Steele… but
Steele had chance to have at least a bit of his former fame back. But Connell…
“Well…
Connell was bad,” Balto sighed. “But he ended like this. I am… I am sorry for
him.”
Steele
smirked. He wanted to say something painful to Balto, but he didn’t want to
hurt him.
Instead of
it he took a drink and continued…
**********
Now, he was
a lead dog. Now, he was the most important… and finally he got something he
deserved. But he hadn’t thing he wanted the most. The Golden collar. He was the
best in white Mountain, but he wasn’t the best in the whole
Connell led
sad and lonely life. Steele didn’t hate him. In fact, Steele wasn’t paying
attention to him and that was much worse than words of hatred. But other dogs
teased him. Their former leader was nobody now. And one day, when they returned
from race, one of the younger members of the team trotted close to Connell,
smirked and stretched his legs saying: “So… another great race. It was great…
we were running like the wind… running!” He hissed into Connell’s ear. Connell
growled, but he couldn’t do anything. He had to listen to these taunts… worse
than the death. He just pretended he didn’t hear, but his face was full of
helpless anger. Dog shook his head. “Anyway, I need a rest. My paws hurt now
little bit… but yours, of course-“
“Stop it!”
Dog turned his head in surprise and saw growling Steele behind him.
“What?” the
dog asked, “I am just having some fun, no?”
But Steele
growled. “Try to do it once more… and I’ll make sure it’ll be the last fun in
your life!” Dog whispered silent sorry and headed to his bed. Steele glanced at
Connel who averted his eyes. Now, Connell felt like completely useless waste.
It meant just one thing. He was so unable his enemy had to help him… Steele
just sighed and went back to Flann who was waiting for him. And she was
smiling. Her Steele did another good thing. He helped his enemy. Not much, but
he showed to Connell that he cared. After a while, dogs were asleep and Sorley
was doing something in kitchen. Connell raised his head and did something he’d
not done in three or four months. He said: “Thank you, Steele…” it was silent,
but Steele heard it. And he knew Connell was still his enemy even though that
thing happened.
Year was
gone so fast… again…annual race was held again. And again there were just two
teams who were favourites. Ulf’s and Steele’s. Ulf hadn’t heard anything about
thing that happened between Connell and Steele. Moreover he hadn’t been showing
any interest in things that weren’t related to him, so therefore he was really
surprised when he saw the new lead dog of his opponent’s team. He smirked and
slowly stalked behind Steele who was giving last orders to his teammates.
“So…” he
laughed as Steele jumped in midair and turned to him quickly. “So Connell
hasn’t shown up and he sent … you?” Ulf’s voice was full of disdain. “I see…
things must be very bad when the team is led by someone so worthless… do you
remember the last year? You screwed up whole race for them… I wonder you are
still alive.”
Steele
smirked. “And what, mutt? Afraid worthless one can beat you?” Of course he
remembered the last year. And the thing Ulf’d done to Flann. “Well, to be
exact, I didn’t ruin anything… I would say throwing my teammate against a
sledge was the true reason… but what could I expect from a wolf?” He grinned.
Ulf gasped.
He wasn’t used to talks like this. “You… you…”
“Me? Me?”
Steele laughed. “Get off, wolfdog.” He turned to his teammates again. Ulf was
mad. But he tried to control his anger… maybe it was just a trick to make him
less concentrated on the race. Ulf hissed something rude and came back to his
team while Steele just smirked.
Race was
going smooth like the last year. But with one difference. Steele’s team was
leaving its opponents far behind unlike Ulf’s. Wolfdog was making a lot of
mistakes. He barely made it to the final round.
You would
say crowd was bored when it saw the same teams in the final again, but you’d be
wrong then. This last race promised the best of the best teams… And not only
crowd knew this… mushers and dogs, too. Ulf was really nervous. He watched
Steele and he realized Steele’s team was much better than his. And now it was
too late for cheating. Everyone would see him and that would be end.
Nevertheless it wasn’t the end. Teams were standing in two straight lines, leaders
had paws on the line marking starting position, and mushers greeted themselves
and then just prepared for the starting shot. Steele closed his eyes…. So this
is his first and maybe last chance to achieve-
And then
the starter fired his gun.
Ulf
accelerated like bullet but Steele kept staying on the starting line.
“Steele?” Flann
whispered.
No… not yet…
Ulf was
further every second
No…
No…
Now!
Steele
started…
It was
amazing race. At first, Ulf noticed Steele’s team didn’t leave its position and
smirked. But after a short while he realized something. It was deliberate. It
was Steele’s showing off. And Ulf made another mistake. He looked back and saw
advancing Steele. And he had to admit Steele was quick. Whole Steele’s team was
quick. Ulf tried to run faster…
Steele
outran him fifty metres before the finish line…
And then
Steele’s dream came true… Sorley shouted with excitement, teammates barking and
Flann kissed him. But the best was still to come. After he was unharnessed his
master gave him the Golden collar. And the crowd was cheering… new champion was
born…
Flann
jumped and hugged Steele. She was exhausted like the rest of the team, but
happy. Her love, her man, her everything got all he wanted: the Golden Collar
for which he had worked so hard. “Flann… I am so happy!” He yelped and hugged
her tightly.
“I am happy
too… and I bet your parents are proud of you…” she whispered.
Sorley
patted Steele gently knowing he was worthy replacement for Connell.
And then
the thing that can change a lot of things came… popularity.
While they
was going home, Steele was centre of attention. Younger dogs looked up to him
and whispered words of admiration. And one pup standing few steps behind Steele
nuzzled its mother and squirmed: “Mum… I want to be like Steele…”
And Steele
attracted not only pups. Young females were sighing for him and would give
everything for being his mate. But Steele had chosen his love already. Flann.
And he knew she knew it.
As they
entered their house, Steele realized that Connell didn’t know. And he suddenly
felt like he had stolen Connell’s dream. But then he recalled how Connell
behaved towards him and he trotted in, followed by the rest of his team.
Connell just sighed when he saw Steele, but when he noticed the Golden Collar,
he turned his head away. He had to think about that the Golden Collar could
have been his… And now, Steele got it. Nobody was paying attention to Connell,
but he found it useful. At least nobody teased him.
Steele lay
down with Flann by his side.
“Well… I
just want to thank you for your excellent work today. I want you to know that
this collar is the result of our work. And every one of you should get one. I
am so glad I can be in a team with such great dogs.” He smiled and his
teammates cheered. They’d never heard words like these from Connell.
Night came.
Steele hadn’t got any dreams… because his dream came true.
Steele woke
up early the next morning. Like he was afraid the Golden Collar was just a
dream. Dream that faded away when a new day was dawning. But… that wasn’t a
dream. Collar was still on his neck. Steele smiled and decided to go for a
short trip. Well, nothing changed. At least first five minutes were normal.
Then one female trotted closer and smiled.
“Good day,
Steele.”
Steele was
surprised. They hadn’t talked too much to him before the race. And now it
seemed everybody wanted to be his friend… or in this case: lover.
“Well, good
day…” Steele replied. Female brushed her body against his and nuzzled him. “You
are great, Steele… now, you are famous and you can have everything you want…
even me…” She whispered seductively and lustfuly.
“Uh… I am
sorry, but Flann-“
“Forget
about her, you deserve somebody much better!” Female kissed him.
‘Well…
Flann is sleeping now… she won’t know if I-‘ Steele thought. He kissed her
back.
‘But I
shouldn’t cheat her… after all, I love her…’ weak voice in his head said, but
the new thoughts silenced it. After all, he had worked hard for his success.
And now he thought it was his right to enjoy all he achieved.
“Hmm…”
Steele nuzzled female too.
“Today
evening – boiler room. I’ll bring few friends, yes?” And female walked away.
Steele
returned home proudly. He enjoyed his fame and he started loving to be centre
of attention. He entered the room and noticed Flann was up. She was lying in
her bed and looked at him. She didn’t ask: ‘Where have you been?’ She trusted
him and Steele felt bad. He almost betrayed the one who loved him so much. He
sighed and lay down near her. “Good morning, Flann.” He smiled and licked her
cheek. “Morning, Steele.” Flann nuzzled him. “You know, master decided to give
us a day free. Shall we go somewhere?” She giggled and bit his ear gently.
“Yes, we
can, love…” Steele smiled and let her to chew his ear. “And where?”
“You know…
that place where Connell tried to… well, there is very nice meadow near it… and
I have a gift for you, honey.” She whispered into his ear. And after a while,
they left the house and headed to the forest.
Steele
wondered what Flann wanted, but he found out soon. As they entered little
meadow, Flann lay down rolling in tall grass. Then she lounged lazily and
smiled at Steele who watched her with interest. “Come on, love…” Flann giggled
and knocked Steele down. Steele was surprised, but he let Flann to do
everything she wanted. He let her to lay her head on his chest and whisper: “I
love you more than you can even realize.”
Steele got
it. Flann wanted to prove how much she loved him. And he wasn’t against it.
“I love
you, too…” He kissed her and then it was beautiful…
After a
wonderful time Flann was lying by Steele’s side and was panting from
exhaustion.
“You were
amazing, honey…” She smiled and brushed her nose against Steele’s.
Black and
white husky looked at her and when their muzzles met he said: “You too, Flann…
I love you so much…”
They lay
for about an hour more there. Then Flann kissed Steele and got up. “We should
go home…” Steele didn’t say a word and followed her. But when they entered
White Mountain Steele had one of the worst meetings in his life. He noticed the
female from the morning and although he tried to avoid her, it was too late.
She saw him and slowly walked towards them.
“Steele…
Don’t forget about the evening, yes love?” She kissed him infront of Flann like
Flann was nothing but air. Then she giggled and walked away smiling.
“Steele?”
That was all Flann could say.
Steele
turned his head and saw just pain and disappointment in Flann’s eyes. “She is…
she is… my friend from childhood…” But he knew Flann wouldn’t believe him.
Flann shook
her head. “Steele… I thought-“
“Flann, I
love you! I need you!” he yelped.
Flann
turned her head and closed eyes. “So… what did it mean?”
Steele knew
he was caught in lie and there was just two ways to get out. He chose easier
one: “Flann, we haven’t seen each other for almost a year. And she wants to
talk with me in the evening.”
“Can I go
with you?”
Steele
sighed. “Love… I would like you to be with me, but… But it’s private… I promise
I won’t do anything wrong.”
Evening
came. Steele kissed Flann and whispered something like ‘I’ll be back soon’.
Sorley
never locked the door, so Steele had no problems to get out.
As he was
closer and closer to the boiler room, he was more and more curious.
I’ll bring few friends…
Door was
almost closed, and just the light coming from the thin gap between the door and
casing, showed that someone was in. Steele looked in carefully…
So this is what she meant when she said few
friends…
He took a
deep breath and he entered. Room was almost full… filled by dogs from the city,
mainly females. They cheered when Steele stepped in, making large ad
comfortable place for him in the hay. Steele
gulped when all heads turned at him. He knew they expected something from him.
He lay down to the hay and wanted to say: ‘Uh, hello, but-‘. Alas, the female
who’d met him in the morning nuzzled him under his front paw, making space for
her head. And when she felt his paw on her head she smiled. “So Steele, how’s
to be famous?”
Steele was
lost.
“Yes… and
so successful?” a young dog yelped.
“You are so
great!” the female licked Steele’s cheek, but other dogs wanted to get Steele’s
attention as well.
And that
was the time when Steele realized how great is to be popular and favoured. He
got recognition he deserved. And it was fantastic. He smirked.
“It’s
something I can’t describe… but you need to work hard to be like me.” It was
selfish but others just nodded. “I’ve never seen dog so devoted to his goals…”
another female murmured when nuzzling Steele’s shoulder. “And you don’t know
the best yet…” Steele licked his muzzle.
Flann
didn’t sleep for whole night. She was waiting for her love. And she was afraid.
Afraid of losing him. She tried to convince herself that dog can’t change so
quickly. But then he looked at Connell. So, it was possible… Flann was fighting
herself. She trusted him and on the other hand she wanted to go and see this
meeting with the ‘old friend’. Finally, she decided to go. She trusted him,
but… there was the word BUT…
Steele knew
that going home with all the dogs around him would be really strange, so after
a pleasant time he left the boiler room. He’d been in very good mood until he
met Flann. Luckily, he was almost home when Flann noticed him.
“Oh, love,
I see you aren’t asleep…” The black and white husky whispered. The second with
reddish fur sniffed and after a while it growled. “Steele… how many of them?”
Steele’s
expression changed. Now, he was looking like Flann offended him and accused him
for the thing he didn’t.
“Ah,
please, calm down… Yes, there were more… she brought her friends in, too. And I
can make you sure it was just about talking. Or do you think I could replace
you with somebody different? Flann, I love you. And I won’t leave you.”
Steele’s voice was smooth and Flann felt so stupid… of course! Steele loved her! How could be she so blind?
“I am so
sorry, Steele. I… I just… can you forgive me?” She sobbed and brushed her head
against dense fur on his chest.
“I can…
there is nothing to forgive, you were just afraid…”
Whoa, Steele thought, that was really close!
Steele was
more and more popular and welcomed everywhere. He visited the boiler room
almost every two days and Flann was more and more convinced there was something
Steele was trying to hide. So one day she decided to take a close look. She
waited until Steele left and then she sneaked out. Steele was sure Flann wasn’t
following him. He thought she believed every single word he’d told her. Boiler
room was near. Steele trotted in and dogs cheered as usual. Steele just smirked
and lay near an old boiler, ready to boast again. So he started and everybody
was listening. And everybody was impressed… everybody apart from Flann who
looked into the room carefully. And she couldn’t believe her ears and eyes…
“Steele?”
And then
she saw Steele kissing other female. Her jaw dropped and tears began to fall
down from her eyes. Her fears came true. Flann turned away and ran. She ran
home. And she cried. Tears of deceived and cheated one… Everybody was sleeping
when she jumped into the room. Just Connell noticed her and watched.
And then…
Flann ran
to him and hugged him. Connell was shocked. And Flann, too. It was difficult to
say who was more surprised. Flann just cried on the shoulder of the one who had
tried to rape her.
“What…
happened?” Connell whispered finally.
“Steele…”
That was all Flann managed to say between sobs. Connell licked her cheek. He
knew Steele hurt her. And what was strange… Connell felt sorry for her. He had
had a lot of time for thinking and although he was ‘bad one’, he tried to
change. And now he wanted Flann to be happy.
Flann knew
it. She hadn’t forgiven him yet, but she was close to it.
Ironic… She
had known nice, good Steele but she’d seen egoistic deceiver in the boiler room…
and she’d known Connell who had been full of anger and hatred. Now she was
hugging understanding one. She felt asleep still hugging Connell.
Steele returned in the morning the Golden
collar around his neck and proudly entered the room. He just wanted everyone to
know he was the best. It seemed that he was turning into the second Connell.
And for the worst - Steele thought Connell had been doing something well for he
had been successful and respected leader. But Steele didn’t see one thing.
Connell hadn’t been respected because he was nice and friendly. It was because
he was cruel and determined to do even the worst things for achieving his
goals. Trying to kill Steele… Almost raping Flann…
“Steele, we
have to talk…” Flann sat down in front of him. She couldn’t call him love no
more. Not after thing she’d seen. “Tell me… It’s normal to boast in front of
your so called friends and kiss female ones? “
Steele
smirked. “Ah… What are you talking about?”
“I know
where you have been. And I know what you’ve done there.” Flann’s voice was
shaking with disappointment and sadness.
“And? It’s nothing you should know…”
When she
heard this, she gasped: “Steele… you… you said you loved me! So why-“
Steele
sighed like he had to cope with something really annoying and non essential.
“I just
think I found dogs that are good enough for me.”
“Do you
want to tell me I am not good enough for you, Steele? That I am not worthy
enough for you?”
Steele
rolled his eyes: “Yeah… something like this. At last they are able to see who I
really am. They can appreciate me in a way I deserve!”
Flann’s
world was in ruins. “But Steele… I… I love you. Don’t you remember the old
times? When you were a scared pup and-“
“That’s past! Nobody cares!” Steele interrupted her and then - like by the way – he pointed at the Golden collar around his neck.
“Isn’t it
too tight?” Flann smirked with pretended care, trying to keep calm for now.
Steele wondered:
“No? Why?”
“Because…
because it seems it’s strangling you… it’s strangling your brain!” Flann yelped.
Steele was clueless for a while but then his eyes narrowed. “No, it doesn’t…
and moreover… it shows me a lot of things I haven’t seen before…”
Flann raised
her eyebrows: “Like?”
“Like who
is jealous, like who is real friend… like who loves me. It shows me where I
belong!”
“Steele, face it! You became so big headed!
Tell me, where is the old Steele I used to know? Where? Where is Steele I
loved? Where is friendly Steele who was nice to everybody? Where is that Steele
who… who sacrificed the race because of his team mate? And who wouldn’t be able
to cheat the one he loved?” In her eyes tears appeared, but Steele growled.
“I don’t
know… but do you know what? I bet you are just jealous too!” He shouted.
Flann
couldn’t look into his eyes. She was crying silently. “Steele… what are you
saying?”
“I am
saying just the truth!” He growled. “You never loved me! And guess what! I
don’t need you! I’ll find someone whom I deserve! Not a scum like you!”
Flann wanted to say something but her throat was suddenly so tight. These words killed even the last bit of love for Steele she had. “Steele…” she whispered but He turned away. “Get out of my sight!” He just snarled and left the room. He decided to go outside and meet his ‘friends’. Or to be exact, admirers. Flann gasped several times. And then she felt somebody nuzzled her. She turned her head… and it was Connell. Since fight with Steele he had been lying in his bed all the time. He’d stood up just for really important matters. And this was important. It was the most important thing he had seen in last few weeks. “Connell…can you tell my why Steele acts like this?” She whispered.
**********
Balto
noticed Steele’s voice trailed off.
“You don’t
need to continue if you don’t want to, Steele.” Now, Balto felt so sorry for
his step-brother. Yes Steele had made a lot of mistakes… but he was sorry for
him.
Why didn’t I know it before the serum run?
Everything would be much better! Balto thought while watching his brother fighting with memories.
Steele just
whispered: “No… I’ll tell you even the rest…”
**********
Later that
day, Flann was desperate… and she needed help. She was passing Connell when she
heard: “Flann… do you see now? Your Steele is … isn’t your Steele anymore…” Flann
stopped and looked at him. She sat down: “He isn’t, Connell… but… but why?”
Connell
sighed. “Maybe you gave your love to the one who didn’t deserve it…”
Flann lay
down near Connell. “I don’t know… since that race he has been acting like… like
the best sledge dog in the whole world.”
Connell
nuzzled her. “It’ll be better, you’ll see.”
“I wish…”
Flann nuzzled him back… and that was the mistake. Steele came in and when he
saw Flann
and Connell he scowled. “Flann… I wanted to give you a second chance, but as I
can see you don’t want it! Well then! This is the end, you b*tch. Flirting
behind my back with… this!” He
shouted, pointed at Connell and dragged his bed away from Flann’s. “This is the
end!”
Flann
didn’t say a word. It’d be pointless. She just cried, hiding her head in
Connell’s fur.
And now…
Connell was the god guy whereas Steele hurt her more and more.
Soon,
Steele became very famous and Sorley was getting amazing offers for his dog.
But he kept refusing them until one meeting. This meeting changed Sorley’s and
Steele’s life.
Sorley was
sitting in the pub. The one who was interested about Steele was skilled musher.
And Sorley heard he was very good.
“So mister
Kaasen, at first, you should know I have no need to sell Steele. Honestly I am
afraid you’re wasting your time.” Sorley spoke to the man.
Gunnar
Kaasen looked into his glass and smiled. “It’s not about money, is it? I mean I
can offer hundreds of dollars and you will not accept.”
“Well…
and?” Sorley raised his eyebrows. Maybe this man was different than the others…
“Well and
you don’t care about money. You care about your dogs. Dogs are much more
important to you. And that’s good. So therefore I will offer money and this:
I’ll help Steele to be even better, even more famous and I promise he will have
a good living.”
Sorley
nodded. This man was really different. And Sorley knew Steele was young dog at
the beginning of his racing career and he didn’t want to hold him back. Steele
was known in White Mountain and surrounding area… but this Norwegian was able
to make Steele famous in whole Alaska, whereas he’d already done all he could.
“You said I
care about my dogs… so… mister Kaasen, how much do you offer beside a good and
happy life for Steele?”
“What about
$250?”
Sorley
nodded. He would accept any amount of money. The only condition he had was
fulfilled. And Gunnar Kaasen was the first who offered more than money.
Parting was
quick. His team mates took it as something usual. Steele was leaving them because
of his own career. And the truth was he was becoming more and more unpleasant
and egoistic. Connell just watched and knew Steele got what he, Connell,
wanted. And there was no way to get it… because he wouldn’t race again… he just
closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep. Flann was lying near Connell. No, she
didn’t love him. But she needed a friend… and Connell… well… Connell was
different. Now, he was different for good.
Although
Steele kicked her away, Flann was near to tears when Norwegian was taking
Steele away. She recalled Steele as a puppy… Their love… and… that was too
much. She sobbed.
“My Steele…
my Steele...” she whispered, “I promise I’ll find you when you need me. When
you have nothing,… when you are mature enough,… I’ll come…” She hid her head
under Connell’s paws, because she didn’t want Steele to see her crying for him
now.
But Steele
knew his road to be the best and the most famous. He looked back but just once.
With his golden
collar around his neck, he trotted out ready to meet his new team.
And the
next stop?
And tomorrow?
Maybe
Steele
smirked. That was the true beginning.
**********
“And then…
you know it already…” Steele sighed. “It was just racing, racing and racing…
but master Kaasen did what he promised. I had a great time there… until… you
know.”
Balto
nodded.
“Of course
I can’t blame you. You didn’t ruin my life. I did it…”
Balto was
full of compassion. “Steele… I am sorry for you…”
Steele’s look
slipped on the golden collar. “Flann was right. It strangles me.” He grabbed
the loosed end of the collar and after few tries he managed to get rid of it.
He took a deep breath. “I wish… I wish I could tell her she was right… I wish I
could say sorry to her…”
Balto smiled.
“So what’s the problem? Go to
Steele gave
him a look full of sorrow. “I heard master Sorley moved from
Balto
nuzzled him. “Steele… I am sure she would forgive you.” Steele sobbed but he
didn’t say a word. And Balto realized this had been the main reason why Steele
had wanted Jenna. Because Flann was almost the same as Balto’s mate.…
“Please…
leave me alone, Balto…” Steele whispered in silent request and left the boiler
room. He didn’t think much about his past until this meeting. He remembered just
few moments, but now
his past got him. He was lost. He was lost in place he didn’t visit for a long
time. Lost in his past. He looked at the sky and sighed. It was usual cold evening,
like each evening here.
“Oh darn…”
Steele cursed when he realized he had no place to call home. He had to sleep in
boiler room. Again. So he headed back.
“Hi, I
just-“ He tried to sound like he was talking about the weather when he was
entering the boiler room. But these words weren’t heard by anybody but Steele.
Balto had left before Steele returned.
Black and
white husky curled down in the corner and hoped in escape from his thoughts…
If there is
something fair, it’s a sleep. It doesn’t matter how bad or good are you… It’ll
come… and put you into the unreal world of dreams. But tonight, Steele had no
dreams. Actually, in the middle of the night he thought: ‘Man, it’s just my
feeling or it’s suddenly warmer here?’
Morning
came. It looked like snow decided to take a break and not to show itself. Sun
was dancing on glass in windows, snow lying on the ground and everyone woke up
in pleasant morning. So did Steele. He opened his eyes, made few blinks and…
wait… he could swear that reddish brow fur hadn’t been there before!
“What-?” He
wanted to ask, but familiar voice made him to stop.
“Steele…
Steele… I said I would find you when you would need me, when you would have
nothing… when you would be mature enough… so… I am here…” Flann whispered into
his ear. She had had to come in the night… but how had she found him?
“Flann?” Steele
yelped.
Flann
didn’t respond, just sobbed with happiness.
“Flann…Flann…
do you think you can forgive me? I know I don’t deserve-”
She silenced him with a kiss and whispered. “I am here… and that means... I forgave you.”
And this
kiss brought back the thing Steele had forgotten. Love…
“But how?”
Steele wondered. Flann smiled and pointed at the door. There was Balto in it.
He just nodded and walked away.
“Your brother
told me everything… It’s a long story. Well… master Sorley decided to move from
I didn’t know I’d meet you here… I
thought I lost you… I just lived in hope to see you once more. I asked
everybody, I was trying to find you for a long time… and now… I… I am finally
with” Once again, her tears became stronger than her will and she began to cry.
“I love you, Steele…”
Steele licked
her tears down. “I love you too, Flann…”
Balto knew Jenna was waiting for him, but he
looked back and smiled
‘So… this was a story of my brother...’
THE
END…
(Maybe)
So… The end. Well… actually there is one person
I would like to thank. It’s Taka_PL. His guidance and ideas made whole story
much better. And of course thanks to everybody who read this and gave me their
opinions.
I guess I will take a break for now… and then?
There is still one story I’d like to tell… Story which will explain a lot of
things… Conell’s…