Zekee- (a wheel dog on the team. Zekee is a malamute he has lived here his whole life. He is black in color with a white underbelly and chest. He is a good friend with Topaz. He has dark brown eyes.)

Topaz- (another wheel dog on the team. He and his owners have just moves her from North Dakota. He was put on the Alaska Snow team a few months ago, so he’s still learning the ropes. He is also a Malamute and he is dark brown in color and he has dark brown eyes.)

Sarky- (small black Siberian husky, has lived in White Mountain for a few months and mainly keeps to himself.)

Sam, Max, Earl, Cooper and Gus- (they are just dogs that are on the teams, I haven’t decided if they are going to be in the story. I just added them because I felt that each team needed to have eight dogs.)

Arctic Storm Team-

Stone

Rush

Raider

Carbon

Sam

Max

Earl

Alaska Snow Team-

Keane

Savik

Sasha

Gus

Cooper

Zekee

Topaz

Jack Johnson, Mark Bennett, Julie Bennett, Sarah Bennett, Keane, Stone, Thomas McGreen, Rush, Raider, Carbon, Fritz, Savik, Sasha, Sky, Zekee, Topaz, Sparky, Sam, Max, Earl, Cooper and Gus © Keane Husky

Aniu ©Universal Studios/Amblimation Studios

Authors Note- Mark Bennett and John Johnson were having a conversation about Keane. Mark asked Jack if he could see Keane, this is where the story begins (chapter 1).

Chapter 1- Goodbye

“Come on boy. Come on Keane” said Jack Johnson.

Keane was not happy about being woken up from his morning nap. Keane yawned and stretched his tired muscles. Groggy Keane started to follow his master around to the front of the house. It’s spring of 1919 in Koyuk, Alaska. There are only 20 houses, three stores and a church that is being built. Many folks who lived here where mostly fishermen or were helping build the church.

Keane’s ears move towards the sound of hammers pounding nails into the cedar wood for the church. Keane lived with is owner just outside the small town. Keane made his way towards the front of the house, the four inches of snow crushed as Keane walked. Keane rounded the house only to be surprised that some stranger was in his yard. Keane let out a growl deep within his throat.

“Easy boy, easy.” said his master.

“He certainly is big for his age.” said the stranger.

“Yes, yes he is.” said Johnson.

“He’s two years old and Siberian Husky?”

“Yes he is. His birthday is June 9^th I believe. He’s loyal, not really interested in strangers best guard dog I’ve ever had, but once he gets to know you and knows that you pose no threat he’ll warm up to you. It’s a shame I can’t take him with me.” Johnson said sadly as he patted Keane who was now, standing beside him.

“Why can’t you take him with you?” said the stranger.

“I’m afraid where I’m going, I can’t take him with me.” Johnson said as he looked at Keane who was looking back into his master’s eyes.

“So that’s why I put up flyers in some of the near by towns and asked mail carriers to hand put flyers whenever they stopped in a town.” said Johnson.

“Why do you have to go to California?” asked the stranger.

Mark noticed the look of confusion on Jack’s face.

“Ah… the store manager at a supply store told me, when I was getting directions to your house.” explained Mark.

Johnson sighed.

“I’m having heart surgery, Mr. Bennett.”

“Mark.” said Mark

“They won’t allow me to take him with me. “Johnson said trying not to cry.

“Mark Bennett that’s what this strangers name is.” Keane said to himself.

“I don’t have any relatives, they either don’t want him or they are dead.” chuckled Johnson.

“Well I can assure you he’ll be in good hands. Can I pet him?” said Mark.

“Sure just stick your hand out to let him sniff you first.”

Keane sniffed Mark’s hand as he bent down it smelled like dogs. It smelled like four dogs, two male malamutes and two Siberian huskies. One of the two Siberian Huskies was female the other male. It also smelled like paper that had gotten wet from the snow.

“Where are the dogs?” Keane wondered as he sniffed Marks glove that was still on his hand.

“What’s his name again?” asked Mark.

“Keane, it means sharp; bold.” said Johnson with pride.

“He certainly is a beauty.” said Mark as he was taking his glove off.

Keane licked Mark’s warm hand. Mark looked up at Jack who was smiling at Keane with pride.

“I think I’ve seen enough. I’ll take him. How much do I owe you?” said Mark as he was getting up.

“Nothing my boy, nothing.” said Johnson.

“Surely there must be something you want for him?” said a persisted Mark.

“All I want is for Keane to have a good, warm home where he can live out the rest of his life happily.” said Johnson.

“Well at least take this.” Mark said holding out a ten-dollar bill.

Johnson held Mark’s hand in his and closed Mark’s hand that held the money.

“I’m dying son and my only wish is that Keane has a good home that it. I’ll go get his harness so you can take him with you.” Johnson said as he turned towards the cedar log cabin.

Mark looked down at Keane who was now beside him.

“Something’s not right.” Keane said as he watched his master go into the cabin.

“Good boy.” Jack Johnson said as he was putting Keane’s harness on.

Once Jack was done harnessing Keane up he knelt by his best friend.

“Now you be a good boy, for Mark you hear. Be a good dog.” said Jack on the verge of tears.

“What’s going on? Why are you crying?” whined Keane knowing that his master couldn’t understand him.

“Those brown eyes’ I’ll miss them, watching over me.” Jack said crying.

Keane licked his master’s salty tears away.

“Don’t cry, please don’t cry.” Keane said looking at his master.

Jack embraced his beloved friend. Jack pulled away from the embrace. Jack smiled at Keane who was again licking his tears.

“O.K.” Jack said

Mark toke Keane from the back of his harness and began to lead him down the dirt road. Keane realized what was happening. 

“NO, NO!” screamed Keane.

“Let go of me! He needs me; you don’t understand he needs me! Why are you doing this?” screamed Keane as he pulled against Mark. Mark held on.

“Come on now be a good boy. It’ll be alright.” Said Mark as he struggled with Keane.

“Please stop! I need him! I NEED HIM!” whined Keane.

The two struggled as they rounded the bend and out of Jacks view.

“Be a good boy, I love you and will always be watching over you.” Said Jack Johnson as he closed his eyes.

That was the last time Keane saw his beloved master.

Chapter 2- I’m home

“Stop, let me go!” Keane howled.

“Come on boy, it’ll be alright. Your going to go to a good home, I promise. Said Mark trying to reassure Keane.

“Look, it’s Mark, everybody and he has a dog with him.” said Savik.

Savik was a wolf gray coloring on his fur, with piercing blue eyes; Savik was one of the lead dogs on the small team. The other lead dog was also a Siberian husky; she was gray in color with a white underbelly and chest. Sasha has almond color eyes, and a small frame. The two wheel dogs were Malamutes. One of the malamutes name was Zekee he was black with a white underbelly, and dark brown eyes. The other malamute that was still learning the ropes was Topaz; he was a dark brown in color with dark brown eyes. The small teams of four dogs were hooked to the sled.

“Be a good boy, Keane” Mark said out of breath as he still struggled with Keane.

“Let me go, we need each other!” growled Keane.

Mark struggled to open his pack that was on the sled. He needed the rope that was in there to tie Keane up with. After 10 minutes and Marks arm going numb, he finally found the rope. With the strength Mark had left he pulled Keane towards him much to Keane’s protest. Mark toke one end of the rope and tied it on to Keane’s harness, Mark than tied the other end of the rope to the sled. Keane’s muscles ached from pulling and pulling; he finally knew he needed to take a break. Mark laid back onto the sled. Keane refused to give up but his body ached with fatigue. His chest sore from pulling on the harness. His mouth longed for water. His lungs gasped for air.

“You’d make a good lead dog” Mark said to the worn out husky.

Savik lifted his head.

“Hey, are you ok?” asked Savik.

“I’m fine once I rest, I’ll be o.k. Than I can chew the rope and run back to my home.” said Keane as his heart rate and breathing was coming back to its normal level.

“Marks not that bad of a guy once you get to know him. You’re going to a good home just, ask Fritz when you get there.” Savik said.

“Yeah, right.” Keane smirked.

“You’ll see trust me. Oh I’m Savik by the way.” Savik said.

“Keane.”

Mark sat up. He started to walk towards Keane who quickly was moving away from Mark.

“Come on be a good boy, Keane.” Mark said moving towards Keane.

Keane moved to the right, Mark dodge towards him. Keane quickly moved to the left but Mark was quicker and managed to get a hold of Keane’s harness. Keane squirmed to try to get loose from the grip. Mark picked up a squirming Keane and placed him on the sled. Mark untied the rope that was tied onto the sled. Keane was making a move to his owner’s home.

“Yes, I’m free.” Keane thought.

The harness tightened around Keane’s body. Keane was stumbled back.

“What?” Keane questioned.

Mark was pulling on the rope. Mark went around to the other side of the sled, and started pulling Keane towards him. Keane pulled just as hard but he hadn’t regained his full strength back yet. Mark than pulled Keane onto the sled and quickly tied the end of the rope to the drive bow. Keane tried to run but, couldn’t Mark had tied it so that Keane couldn’t step off the sled. Mark picked up the anchor that was keeping the dogs from running off with the sled, while keeping one foot on the brake.

“Come Gee Come Haw.” Mark yelled.

The four dogs did a 180, which turned the team away from the small town. Keane still struggled to break free but it was hopeless.

“Hike.” yelled Mark.

The team toke off towards White Mountain.

“Stop, please, my owner needs me.” Keane whined to Savik.

Savik just closed his eyes and told himself that this is for the best, keep running. Savik opened his eyes and focused on getting home.

“Please.” Keane pleated with the other dogs.

The dogs knew what to do and that it’s for the best not to say anything to the Keane.

After 10 miles Keane finally laid down, knowing that his fate was sealed. With the rocking of the sled Keane drifted off to sleep.

“Whoa, Keane Whoa.” Yelled Jack.

Keane and Jack were at their favorite spot, their spot, Eagle Lake. Eagle Lake was just 15 miles from the cabin.

“Good boy, Keane.” Jack said as he rubbed the husky behind the ears.

Jack unhooked Keane from the sled. Keane barked with excitement. Jack picked up a stick and threw into the water. Keane took off after it. Keane splashed into the water and swam after the stick. After a few throws Jack unpacked his fishing pole and started to fish. Keane dove after a fish that his master had caught he than ran away with the fish, Jack chased Keane.

Jack gave up on catching Keane. Once Keane had eaten his fish his master was still fishing, Keane snuck up on his master and ran by his master into the lake knock Jack into the water. Jack chased Keane playfully but never caught up to him. Jack flopped onto the ground. Keane soon came and joined his master they both feel asleep with the sun shining on them.

The sled came to a halt. Keane woke up with a startle.

“Wh.. What” Keane mumbled. It had started to snow lightly. Suddenly it hit him, Kane started to run but what held back by the rope. Keane looked around franticly, he saw a sign.

WHITE MOUNTAIN, ALASKA

EST. 1895

POP. 175

“I’m home.” Keane whispered, “I’m home.”

Chapter 3- Meeting the Family

Keane just stared at the sign. Hoping. Wishing it was a dream.

“Come on boy.” Mark said untying the rope from the sled.

Keane was lead away from the sled and towards a house. The house was the last house on the main street. The door suddenly opened reveling a woman and a seven-year-old girl.

“He’s so pretty, daddy.” Said Sarah Bennett.

The little girl ran to the husky. Keane let out a growl. The girl stopped stunned.

“It’s o.k. honey. Stick out your hand and let him sniff you.”

The girl walked slowly over to the husky and toke off her glove and stuck out her hand. The girl smelled like cotton and a dog, a German shepherd. The girl took her other hand and petted Keane on top of the head.

“He’s beautiful, honey.” Julie Bennett said as she walked to the husky.

She bent down and stuck her hand out to let the husky smell her. She smelled like fish, green beans, mashed potatoes and wool. Julie had been wearing a dress with a long coat on top of the dress she had on snowshoes. Sarah had on snowshoes, pants and a sweatshirt on top of her sweatshirt she wore a coat.

“Come on boy. Lets get you some food.” Mark said.

Keane was lead into the house. He looked over is shoulder to see people leading the four sled dogs away. The house was warm from the fire that was burning. The house smelled good, and reminded him of his masters’ home.

“He is big for a husky.” Julie said.

Keane was a large Siberian husky. He had a white underbelly and chest. He was also a light brown almost an almond color with hints of chocolate brown. From Keane’s nose along his back to the tip of his tail he was a light tan, with hints of orange and golden blonde in his fur. Keane had almond colored eyes that shined.

“Your probably hungry after that long trip.” Julie said heading into the kitchen. Mark unhooked Keane from his harness and hung it up on a hook that was on a wall. There was a harness next to Keane’s

“Must be the German shepherds.” Keane figured.

“I got some thing for you boy.” Mark said taking a box down from off a shelf. Mark opened it Inside was a leather collar that had a metal loop that hung down on the front.

“I want to put it on him “ said Sarah.

Mark gave her the collar.

“Now be a good boy.” Sarah said as she slowly walked towards Keane.

“There.” Sarah said as she toke a step back to admire the beautiful husky.

“I wish you would understand that I don’t belong here. I want to be with him. He needs me.” Keane said as he looked into the little girls eyes.

“Your dinner is ready, honey.” called Julie from the kitchen.

“Come on Keane let’s get you something to eat.” Mark said as he headed for the kitchen.

“I don’t belong here.” Keane said with a sigh.

His stomach growled. Keane went into the kitchen. Mark was at a chair art the table.

“Sarah why don’t you go play with your dolls while your father and… what’s the husky’s name?” Julie said setting Marks plate down on the table.

“Oh, Keane it means sharp; bold.” Mark said before taking a bite of his mashed potatoes.

“While Keane and your father eat.” said Julie.

“Yes mamma.” Sarah said before skipping off into the living room.

“So the little one is called Sarah.” Keane said as he watched the girl skip into the living room.

“Here you go Keane, here’s your food.” Julie sat down a bowl that had some dry dog food init. Keane sniffed it.

“Doesn’t smell very appetizing.” Keane said.

His stomach ached for food. Keane forced him to eat the unusual food that was in front of him. There was a scratch at the door.

“That’ll be Fritz.” said Mark.

Julie went and got the door. A big German shepherd came in and shook the snow off him. As soon as Fritz saw Keane he let out a threatening growl.

“Nein.” Mark said in a sharp voice.

Fritz stopped growling immediately and changed his attitude. Fritz walked up to Keane. Keane’s muscles tightened ready for a fight if necessary.

“So you’re the new lead dog for the Alaska Snow team. “ Fritz said.

“Yeah I guess.” said a confused Keane.

“We’ll see tomorrow morning.” Fritz said before he left.

“What’s your name?” Keane said as Fritz was almost out of the room.

“Fritz. “ with that the German shepherd left the kitchen.

Chapter 4- Meeting the Gang

Flashes of Keane being lead away from Jack echoed in his mind.

“Stop, let me go!” yelled Keane.

“Let go of me! He needs me; you don’t understand he needs me! Why are you doing this?” screamed Keane as he pulled against Mark.

“Be a good boy.” Jack said as his voice faded.

Flashes of Keane being lead away from his master, raced thought his mind.

A newly fresh grave appeared, the grave marker reading…

Jack Johnson

Born- April 2, 1844

Death- July 7, 1919

The seasons changed all around the cross, before being buried in the snow.

Keane woke up with a startle. It was six in the morning, the house was quiet, and the fire that had kept the house warm was now only a few burning ambers.

“Are you ready for a long day?” asked Fritz who seemed to appear out of nowhere.

“Yeah…yeah.” Keane said as he was getting up.

“Good follow me.” said Fritz who was heading towards the kitchen.

“How are we going to get out of here?” asked Keane, the two dogs were stuck inside standing by the back door.

“No problem.”

Fritz bit the round door handle, he than twisted the handle with his weight, the door unlatched, Fritz than pushed his nose between the door and the wall opening the door.

“Shouldn’t we wait till the humans are awake?” said a hesitating Keane.

“No it’ll be fine. Now come on.” Fritz started for the main street.

The two dogs were walking down the main street of White Mountain. White Mountain was a close nit community. The town had a church and a small hospital, with a small school being built. There was the main road and two side streets on either side of the main street, all connected by a system of alleys. The snow had stopped falling from last night.

“Where are we going?” Keane questioned.

“This way Keane.” said Fritz turning down an alley.

“Wait, how do you know my name? Keane said uneasy.

“I saw the flyer, Mark brought home one day. It read…

Siberian Husky seeking good home.

Excellent guard dog and sled dog.

Age 2years.

In good health.

For information- contact Jack Johnson at Koyuk, Alaska.” Fritz said.

Keane was still unsure.

“Hey you hungry?” Fritz said jumping up on top of a trashcan.

“A little.” Keane said as he watched Fritz eyeing a trashcan.

The German shepherd grunted as he leaped onto a trashcan. Fritz got into the right position and leaped off the trashcan knocking it over as he leaped.

“Breakfast is served.” the German shepherd joked before digging in.

It smelled like sausage, fish, half eaten food, wet paper and some unknown smells. Keane picked at it only eating the sausage and some fish.

“Well, well, well…. if it isn’t gramps from the Alaska Snow Team.” said a Siberian husky who was standing a few feet away.

Keane had stopped eating the sausage and looked to where the sinister voice was coming from.

A few feet away stood four dogs. The dog standing in the middle seemed to be the leader of the pack. He was black, not just black but, midnight black. He had brown eyes and stood a little taller than the rest of the dogs. The husky had on a big leather collar that had gold circles on it. To the right of the black Siberian husky was a Chocolate colored husky with a white underbelly and chest; he had dark Chocolate brown eyes. To the right of the Chocolate colored husky was a Siberian husky and Malamute cross.

He was a light tan with hints of brown in his coat. He had light brown eyes. To the left of the black Husky was a smaller dog he was a piebald with white and splashes of orange he had amber colored eyes.

“We are just getting something to eat than, we will be on our way.” Fritz said trying to stay calm as the four dogs approached.

“Well, I think you better start leaving, Fritz.” said the Piebald one.

“Yeah, you and your friend should start leaving, before you end up if the trash.” The chocolate colored one said.

“I have a name you know, it’s Keane. And if you would be so kind as to let us finish eating than, we’ll be glad to get out of your way.” Keane said trying to calm to four dogs.

“Great thanks, for helping us dig our own graves.” Fritz thought as he glanced at Keane.

“Well, Keane” Stone spit the word Keane out like a bad taste in his mouth. “You see this is our turf and if we tell you to leave than you leave.”

“Look the kid is new here and, he doesn’t understand. We’ll leave all right.” Fritz said trying to help save his and Keane’s hides.

“This time it’s not going to be that simple Fritz. We are just welcoming Keane to the neighborhood.” Stone said as he was walking towards Fritz.

“Now let’s show are new friend Keane, what happens when he crosses paths with us. Get him!” Stone snarled.

Chapter 5- The Chase

Fritz snarled at Stone who was still approaching him. Stone’s muscles tensed, his fur along his back stood up. Fritz lowered his head slightly and curled his upper lip. Fritz kept backing away he felt his hind legs hit the trashcan that was behind him. Stone leaped towards Fritz with his mouth open, Fritz quickly dodged the Siberian husky. Sending Stone crashing into the trashcan. Stone was now furious and quickly leapt to his feet, and charged the German shepherd. Stone rammed Fritz with a thud knocking Fritz to the ground.

“Listen, I don’t want to fight.” Keane said as his muscles tightened.

“Oh, what’s a matter the little doggie woggie doesn’t want to hurt us, how sweet.” Said Raider

The three dogs where snarling at Keane, suddenly the Rush charged Keane. Keane tensed up and ran towards the charging husky. The two collated, Rush had managed to get a hold of the fur on the back of Keane’s neck. The chocolate colored husky was maneuvering his body to try to pull Keane down on his side. Keane pulled against the husky’s weight, he knew that if the went down that it would be difficult to get back up or worse to fight. As the two pulled against each other they, Keane broke free, only to bump into the trashcan. Rush quickly spat out the clump of fur he had pulled off of Keane.

Keane quickly glanced at Fritz who was on his side with the black Siberian husky standing over him, just a few feet away. Keane glanced just in time to see Rush leaping towards him.

“Run, Run, RUN!” screamed Keane’s mind.

Keane turn and ran towards the black Siberian husky. Rush smashed into the trashcan and stumbled to get up. Carbon and Raider darted after Keane. Keane tightened his muscles and lowered his head, he rammed into Stone’s side knocking him and himself over. Fritz quickly pulled himself up. Keane stumbled as he tried to get up. Stone was a bit dazed and confused after having to wind knock out of him. Raider and Carbon leapt over Stone. They continued persuaded Fritz and Keane who were up and running towards the other end of the ally. Stone pulled himself up only to be slammed down by Rush who had crashed into him.

“You idiot.” Stone yelled at Rush, who was lying on the ground after hitting Stone.

Stone pushed himself up and ran towards the chase, with adrenaline pumping through his veins. Rush quickly heaved himself up off the ground and followed in pursuit.

Chapter- 6 Introduction

They reached the end of the alley and toke a right heading up a side street. They flew across the ground kicking up snow as they went. They pushed themselves ahead of the charging pack. Keane didn’t know where to go in this town. All he knew was to run, or to find a place to ambush the gang. Keane was just a few feet in front of him. Fritz heard the piebald husky pull along side him.

The old German shepherd pushed himself forward determined to out run the husky. Fritz glanced over at Carbon, who had a sinister smile on his face. Fritz closed his eyes and in a last desperate attempt tried to out run the husky. Suddenly he felt something ram into his side and he fell hard on the ground. He opened his eyes and was unable to get up; Carbon had his jaws clamped on the side of Fritz’s neck. Fritz tried to maneuver himself free from the husky’s grasp. He kicked his hind legs frantically. He heard Raider run up behind him, breathing heavy.

Keane glanced back over his shoulder and saw Fritz being pinned down by the piebald husky with the malamute/husky cross looking on. Keane quickly turned himself around and charged at the piebald husky. Keane rammed into the husky, hard. Fritz felt the husky being pulled off of him suddenly. Keane struggled to maintain his balance after ramming the husky. Raider quickly lunged for Keane. Something suddenly flew out from a side ally and pinned the lunging husky down.

The husky looked familiar, it was Savick, the wolf colored husky that he met yesterday. Savick pinned the malamute cross down. Suddenly down the same ally the other dogs from the team arrived and stood between Keane and the charging pack. Stone skidded to a halt with Rush jogging up to Stone’s side.

“What are you four mutts doing here?” spat Stone.

“With all the racket you bozos were causing we thought we’d come and investigate.” growled Sasha.

“Come on Stone, we can take them.” Rush said anxiously.

Zekee and Topaz let out growls deep with in their throats.

“No, we’ll let them go, for now.” Stone said coming to a conclusion.

“But, we can take them.” Rush said trying to change Stone’s mind.

“I know that. We’ll leave them be.” Stone said as he looking at the Alaska Snow team.

Savick got up off of Raider. Rush turned and went down the street from which they came. Carbon got up and followed, shortly after Raider.

“Just remember Keane, we’ll meet again and next time you won’t have your friends to save you.” with that Stone turned and headed down the street.

“First day here and your already getting friendly with the enemy.” said the autumn colored malamute.

“Thanks for the help guys.” Fritz said as he tried to get up, he winced as he stood.

“Now problem that’s what family is for.” Savick said

“Are you guys ok?” asked the black and white malamute

“I’m good. What about you, Keane?” Fritz said as he looked over at Keane.

“I’m missing some fur on the back of my neck but, other than that I’m good.” replied Keane.

“You guys look like you could got for a drink,” said the female gray husky. “Your welcome to come over to my house.”

“Thanks Sasha” Fritz said as he followed the female husky.

The other dogs followed the husky down the ally. The dogs made there way through the ally and arrived on the main street. They headed across the main street and enter another ally. The ally led them to another side street. They cross the street and headed for a small house. The house was only a two bedrooms, one bath.

“Wait here.” The female husky made her way through the doggie door.

The rest of the dogs waited on the front porch. The wood creaked as Keane sat down by Fritz. Sasha made her way back towards the doggie door with her water bowl in her mouth. Sasha pushed her way thought the door. The water spilled over, Sasha waited for the water to settle than continued though the door. She sat the bowl carefully in font of Fritz and Keane. Fritz lapped up the water.

“Glad you like it.” Keane said, reminding Fritz that he still needed to drink too.

“Sorry.” Fritz said letting Keane get some water too.

The water was comforting as it ran down Keane’s throat. After the dogs drank heartily. There was an awkward silence.

“Thanks again for saving us.” Keane said trying to make small talk.

“I was no problem.” said the black and white malamute who had been quiet the whole time.

“I don’t mean to be rude but what are your names? Why did you take me away from Jack?” Keane questioned.

“Well, I’m Savick. This is my mate Sasha.” Savick said

“I’m Topaz. One of the wheel dogs, and this is Zekee.” Topaz said nodding to Zekee.

“Don’t forget Gus and Cooper. Gus is out with a sprained paw and Cooper is sick.” chimed Sasha.

“You were brought here to be the new lead dog on our team; Alaska Snow. The welcoming committee that you made friends with this morning is part of the Arctic Storm team. The piebald one is Carbon. The malamute cross is known as Raider. The chocolate colored one is called Rush. The leader of the pack is known as Stone. They are the local gang or pack; they welcome new dogs and put them in their place. You don’t want to mess with them. ” Savick finished.

“We have run against the Arctic Storm team before. We have only beaten them once, about two years ago. That was just on luck alone.” added Zekee remembering that the Arctic Storm had lost two dogs to a bear during the race.

Keane needed to think, he was taken away to be a lead dog to a team he has never met and made his first enemy this morning. His mind was racing with the events that had taken place over the last 36 hours.

“We know it’s a lot to take in, and we understand if you want to be alone to sort things out.” Fritz finished.

“We’ll leave you be. If you need anything just come gets us we’ll be around back.” Sasha said as she headed around the house towards the back.

The other dogs followed Sasha to the back of the house. Keane slid down; he rested his head on his paws. He closed his eyes, and forced himself to think of happy thoughts.

Chapter 7- Practice

“Just think of something that makes you feel happy.” Keane told himself. “Like eating fish, that Jack cooked, or…Jack”

“I will come back to you again. I will find a way to get back to Koyuk.” Keane promised himself.

Suddenly something pounced on his back. Keane quickly got up and turned around to see what had fallen on him. It was a pup; a black and white piebald with piercing blue eyes. The pup had on a red harness with light blue out lining.

“Hi, I’m Sky. You must be Keane,” said the eager pup.

“Ahh…yeah. How did you kno…” Keane was cut off.

“How did I know your name? My mom told me, her name is Sasha and my dad is Savick. They are part of the team you’ll be leading.” Sky said with his tail thumping against the wood floor.

“We’ll I need to think right now, why don’t you go play with your siblings.” Keane said as he laid back down.

“I don’t have any siblings. I mean I did but, they didn’t make it through the winter.” Sky said lowering his voice.

“Ohh… well that sure is a fancy harness, did you get it from Santa Claus? Keane said trying to cheer the pup up.

“Yes I did. You want to know what else I got?” Sky said eagerly.

“Sure, what did you get?” Keane said with a smile.

“I got a big red ball. You want to see it?” Sky said with a grin on his face.

“Of course I want to see it. I love balls.” Keane said as he smiled at the pup.

The young pup quickly ran into the house using the doggie door.

“Good kid. “ Keane thought.

Keane smiled at the thought of having a family of his own one-day. Playing with them is the soft grass. Sleeping without a care in the world as the suns rays warmed them. The pup returned with his bounce red ball.

“You want to play?” asked Sky.

Not wanting to disappoint the pup, Keane said yes. He could sort things out later. After playing for a while.

“How come you are not with my mom and dad?

“Because I ahh..”

“I can’t tell the pup, I wanted to think cause it would hurt his feelings; make him feel like he was getting in the way.” Keane thought.

“I just wanted to watch the scenery from the front porch before, going back to join the others.” Keane said while choosing his words carefully.

“Oh, well the scenery is much better out back, than here.” Sky said wrestling with the ball.

“It is, how much better?” teased Keane.

“Better, better like 100 times better.” Sky said.

“Wow, that much better. Why don’t you show me?” Keane said looking at the pup.

“O.k. follow me but, we have to be quiet so we can scare the others.” Sky said heading off the porch.

“O.k.” Keane whispered.

The huskies jumped off the porch and crept there way around the side of the house. Picking there way over wooden boards that were left on the side of the house. Sky peered around the side of the house; all the dogs were lined up in a row with Fritz giving directions about something.

“O.k. time to put you scary face on.” Sky said looking up at Keane.

Keane had his ears back against his head and gritted his teeth, he let out a low growl.

“Good, now here is mine.” Sky whispered.

Sky closed his eyes tight, and gritted his teeth and slightly shook his head back and forth. He left out a growl sound as he did this.

“Good.” smiled Keane.

Sky turned around and peered again at the other dogs.

“O.k. ready 1,2,3” Sky whispered.

Keane and Sky jumped out from around the house. Both dogs had their scary faces on.

“Mom, dad did I scare you?” Sky said running to Sasha and Savick. Keane smiled and walked over to the other dogs.

“Yes, you did. I thought I was going to have a heart attack.” Savick said as he nuzzled his pup.

“You hear that, Keane we scared them.” the pup said happily.

“I don’t mean to be rude but we need to get back to training Keane I would suggest you join us for our warm up.” Fritz said trying to get things back in order.

“Sure o.k. What’s the warm up?” Keane asked.

“See that tree over there? We run to there and back twice.” Topaz said to Keane.

“Seems easy enough.” Keane told himself.

The tree was 300 yards away from their position. The five dogs lined up and were prepared to run. Fritz stood on the side with Sky near him.

“Ready, set, go.” Fritz said in a commanding voice.

The five dogs toke off. The few inches of snow that had fallen last night, was kicked by the running huskies and malamutes. Savick was in the lead followed by, Sasha and Keane who were neck and neck. Topaz and Zekee rounded out race. Topaz saw his moment and shoved his way through Sasha and Keane.

“This is going to be easy.” Keane thought. Keane loved to run he was born to run. Keane had never been in any races, but his dad was a champion sled dog. His dad had even won some metals. Keane smiled at the thought of getting a metal, all to his own.

“Hey!” Keane and Sasha yelled at the same time.

“Sorry, but every dog for himself.” laughed Topaz.

“So that’s how it’s going to be.” Keane said to himself.

Keane quickly pulled himself ahead. This was easy; Keane set himself at a jogging pace. He pulled along side Topaz.

“How’s it going?” Keane joked as he pulled away from Topaz.

Savick rounded the tree, Keane quickly followed. As soon as Keane rounded the tree he met up with Savick.

“Nice day for a run, isn’t it?” Keane said to Savick as they ran side by side.

“So, you think you can bet me?” Savick replied

“It’s worth a shot.” Keane joked back.

“Your on.” Savick said as he pulled forward.

Keane pushed himself past Savick with ease and quickly rounded the starting line moving onto his second lap. Savick followed in pursuit. Keane quickly reached the tree and rounded it for the last time. As soon as Keane rounded the tree he heard Savick pull along side him. They were neck and neck as they crossed the finish line. Followed by Sasha, Zekee and Topaz bringing up the rear. The dogs panted slightly.

“Great practice guys.” Fritz said to the dogs.

“We should be getting, back. See you guys in an hour, over at my house.” Fritz said as he headed for home.

“Come on, Keane.” Fritz called over his shoulder.

“Yeah, o.k. See you guys later.” Keane yelled as he followed Fritz.

“What’s in a hour?” Keane asked Fritz as they walked down the main street of town.

“That’s when Mark takes out on for our daily run.” answered Fritz.

Mark pushed the wooden sled around to the font of the house. After doing so he headed back to the shed that stored the material needed for the dogs. Mark found the gangline and brought it around font. Soon the harnessed dogs and their owners started to arrive. Mark quickly hooked the gangline to the sled. Zekee was first to be hooked up to the gangline followed by Topaz to his left. In front of Zekee was Savick and to the left of him was his mate, Sasha. In font of Sasha, Fritz was hooked up, and to his left Keane was being hooked in.

“Hike.” Mark yelled and the team toke off heading out of town.

Chapter 8- I don’t belong here

“Whoa, easy, easy.” Mark ordered as the dogs had reached home again. 

The dogs went for a six-mile run, up through the woods near Glacier Pass. They then headed to a spring in Glacier Pass than up to Twin Rivers before heading home. Some of the dogs hated going up to Twin Rivers for, fear of the wolf pack that lived near there. Mark stepped off of the sled and put the break on. Some of the dog’s owners were already at Marks house, waiting to pick up there dogs. The dogs were unharnessed and led away by their owners. Mark quickly put the sled away and the gangline.

“Good job boys, good run.” Mark said as he knelt down to take off Fritz’s harness.

“You did great for your first run, didn’t you boy?” Mark said as he knelt down to take off Keane’s harness.

“You are going to make an excellent sled dog.” Mark said as he got up and headed into the house.

“You are going to make some sled dog, that’s for sure.” Fritz said to Keane as he lay down on the front porch. “You’ll love it here, Mark’s a great owner.” Fritz continued.

“Yeah but, I’m not going to stay, I have to get back to Jack.” Keane said as he sat across from Fritz.

“Listen boy, he put up flyers to try to get rid of you, I highly doubt that he wants you back. Besides we need you to be lead dog.” Fritz said.

“We’ll you can find a new lead dog because I quit.” Keane said.

Keane was getting frustrated and Fritz could sense it. Keane got up and started heading down the street. Fritz followed Keane’s lead.

“Listen, he doesn’t want you.” Fritz said as he jumped in front of Keane.

“Yes, he does. You know nothing about Jack or me for that matter.” Keane snapped.

“He dumped you, we need you, end of story.” Fritz yelled.

“I don’t be long here, Fritz can’t you understand what it’s like to be taken away from your owner, only to be a lead dog of a stupid sled team.” Keane fired back.

“No, I don’t…” Fritz said before being cut off.

“See, you have no idea so, I suggest you get out of my way.” Keane said trying to maneuver around Fritz.

Keane growled at Fritz who kept blocking his way.

“Fine all stay.” Keane said quieting down.

“Good.” Fritz answered as the dogs headed for the porch.

Suddenly Keane darted down an ally that was next to the house. Fritz followed. Keane arrived at the end of the ally and took a right heading down a side street. Keane pulled himself forward; Fritz quickly turned to his right and headed down an ally and off of the side street. Keane looked over his shoulder.

“Yes, I lost him. Now I’ll just head down the this street, than double back around the houses, and I’ll blow this town.” Keane told himself.

Fritz ran down the main street, glancing at every ally as he went by. There he spotted Keane running down the other street.

“Now, I’ll just get ahead of him, head down an alley and cut him off.” Fritz told himself.

Fritz pushed himself, he quickly glanced down an ally as he passed, and he saw Keane start to pass that ally. Fritz quickly darted down an ally. Suddenly he was shoved to the ground. Carbon had dove from some boxes that were stacked in the ally. Fritz looked up and saw Keane run past the ally. Fritz started to yell but, Rush clamped his jaws around Fritz’s neck while Carbon pinned him down.

“There will be no, calling for help this time Fritz.” Stone said as he jumped down from the boxes, followed by Raider.

“Your probably wondering why we are doing this, well we are going to get rid of that mutt, Keane.” Stone said with an evil grin on his face.

“Yeah, first were going to get rid of the ones he cares about, than…” Stone was cut off.

“Than, we’re going to do him in really good.” Raider finished.

Stone suddenly swatted at Raider, who quickly ducked.

“Shut, up you mangy flee bag.” snapped Stone.

“First were going to do you in, than we’re going to do that stupid pup, and last but, not least do that jerk Keane.” Stone said getting tense.

Stone nodded his head and Rush and Carbon quickly leapt off of Fritz. Fritz knew better than, to take all for dogs on by himself. Fritz ran down the ally, only to be shoved down by Stone who had leapt onto him. Fritz kicked his legs wildly but Stone held him down.

“Good bye, old friend.” snarled Stone.

Stone quickly tore at Fritz’s neck. Stone slung his head wildly. Fritz felt like he was a rag doll, being torn to shreds.

“I’m sorry Keane for not understanding, I’m sorry.” Fritz said to himself as he was being attacked, Fritz felt helpless.

Fritz looked down the ally at the side street it was fading into black. Stone felt Fritz stop breathing but Stone continued to tear at Fritz. Raider, Rush and Carbon watched as Stone killed Fritz. Finally Stone was finished.

“Come on let’s get out of here, before somebody sees us.” Stone ordered.

The four dogs trotted out of the ally and headed for their homes. Keane ran down the side street oblivious to what had become of Fritz. Keane came to the end of the street and took a left heading around the houses that sat on the edge of town. Keane soon reached the end of White Mountain and headed for the woods. Keane soon came to a clearing; some rocks were pilled and made a shelter. Keane decided to sleep there for the night.

“I’ll never find my way to Koyuk at night.” Keane told himself. Keane got himself settled and drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 9- Traitor

Keane woke up and crawled out from under the rocks, he stretched in the sunlight.

“I need something to eat before I head out to Koyuk. The town should have something.” Keane said to himself.

Keane picked his way through the forest and headed into town. Keane soon arrived in town.

“There’s your killer!” said a man standing on the Bennett’s front porch.

“Mr. McGreen Keane would never harm anyone.” Sarah said hugging Keane.

“I’m telling you Mark that dog killed Fritz. I saw him run out of town last night probably because we knew he killed him, that dog is a killer.” Thomas McGreen said with a booming voice.

“How can we be sure Keane killed Fritz?” questioned Sarah.

“We did leave them outside, and they were making a lot of racket out here.”

“Besides you don’t want that killer near your baby girl do you?” Thomas persuaded. Mark made up his mind.

“Sarah get away from him.” Mark ordered.

“Daddy how can you say that.” Sarah said as Mark yanked her away from Keane.

“Go on get!” Thomas yelled as he rushed towards Keane. Keane bolted and headed for the woods. Keane stopped and looked back at the town.

“I would have never have killed Fritz.” Keane said to himself.

“That’s funny, where are they? They should be here by now.” Savick said out loud.

It was morning and Topaz, Zekee and Savick were over at Sasha house waiting for Fritz and Keane.

“Well maybe they forgot.” suggest Topaz who was also wondering where they were.

“It’s eight o’clock in the morning, maybe they over slept.” Zekee said.

“Fritz normally gets up at 5:30. So they should be here.” said Sasha.

“I say we go over and get them.” Topaz added.

“It’s settled we will go get them.” Savick said.

Sasha stuck her head in the doggie door. She saw Sky playing with his red bouncy ball.

“Sky be a good boy, mommy and daddy will be right back ok?” Sasha called to the pup.

“Yes, momma.” Sky said before pouncing on his ball.

Sasha withdrew her head.

“Alright, lets go.” Savick ordered.

The dogs leapt off the porch and headed for Fritz and Keane’s house. The dogs soon arrived at the house. Savick went up on the porch and pawed at the door. Sarah Bennett opened the door.

“Hi guys.” Sarah said between sobs while giving Savick a scratch behind the ears.

“If you’re looking for Fritz he’s in the shed and Keane headed for the woods.” Sarah said trying to calm herself down.

Savick whined sensing that the girl was troubled.

“Good dog.” Sarah said as she patted Savick.

“Sarah come and eat your breakfast.” Julie Bennett called from inside the house.

“Yes momma.” Sarah called back. Sarah closed the door.

“Well let’s go see Fritz.” Savick said unknowing what had become of their friend.

The four dogs entered the shed and were over whelmed by Fritz’s decaying body.

“NO!” yelled Savick as he pushed past the others.

Savick ran over the Fritz’s life less body. The smell of blood was over whelming; Sasha turned her head away and started to cry. The hay was stained a crimson red. Savick nudged his friend with his nose.

“Come on please wake up, please.” Savick’s mind pleaded.

Savick gave his friend a lick on the cheek. Savick sat down by Fritz and let out a mournful howl. The dogs sat there in the in silence, morning over there friend.

“Does anybody know what or who could’ve caused this?” Savick said turning to the dogs.

“I remember they were arguing Fritz and Keane about something, I don’t know I was heading home and didn’t think about it too much. They were arguing loudly though. ” Zekee said as he drooped his head.

“Keane.” Savick growled.

Suddenly Savick darted past the other dogs and headed out of the shed. Savick sniffed around trying to find Keane’s scent. They dogs followed Keane’s scent. Savick reached the edge of the forest and sniffed around, the other dogs soon caught up. Savick quickly bolted into the forest following Keane’s scent.

“I’m going to kill that monster.” Savick told himself as he ran following the scent.

Keane was laying down out side the rock den pondering over everything that happened this morning. Savick charged out of the woods and attacked Keane.

“Your going to pay for what you did to Fritz.” snarled Savick.

Keane quickly maneuvered his head and bit Savick right paw that was on top of him. Savick yelped in pain. The other three dogs ran out from the forest and stood by Savick.

“Did you enjoy it?” questioned Topaz who was panting.

“Enjoy what? And what’s going on why did you attack me?” Keane drilled Savick.

“Don’t play games with me, Keane. You killed him, you killed Fritz.” growled Savick.

“What, I didn’t we got into a fight, that was it” said Keane who was trying to calm everyone down.

“Traitor.” Zekee snapped.

“You killed him, what did he ever do to you? He welcomed you into his home. And you repay him by killing him!” shouted Sasha. 

“Guys please.” Keane pleaded.

“If you so much as step on foot inside White Mountain I’ll kill you.” snarled Savick.

The four dogs left a confused Keane about what he was going to do now.

Chapter 10-The Plan

“I would never kill Fritz, yeah he could get on your nerves I guess but that’s not enough for me to kill him.” Keane said out loud as he paced back and forth.

The four sled dogs entered White Mountain all was calm in the small town.

“I’m sorry, baby.” Sasha said trying to comfort her mate.

Savick was lying down with his head on his paws. It was evening; Topaz and Zekee had gone home because practice was cancelled.

“He was a good friend. I’ll kill Keane for what he’s done.” Savick said be fore letting out a sigh.

Sasha laid down next to her mate.

“He went on to a better place. He’s probably looking down at us now and saying ‘don’t fret move on with your life, Savick. You have a healthy son and a beautiful wife.’” Sasha said

“Yes, Lassie is beautiful isn’t she?” Savick joked.

“Hey!” Sasha said getting up.

Savick gave her a lick on the check. The two dogs headed into the house.

Suddenly a dog bolted from around the house and headed across town. The husky slowed down when he reached a house on the south end of the town. The dog ran up the porch.

“What did they say?” asked Stone.

“They fell for it, they believe Keane killed Fritz.” the panting husky, Carbon answered.

“Good, good. All we need to do now is get rid of that pup. The dummies than will blame Keane and he’ll be forced to live out in the wilderness and with the races coming up they will need to find another dog or forfeit and we can take the other competition right boys?” Stone said mapping out his plan.

“Yeah boss, whatever you say.” chimed the huskies.

“Good.” Stone said with a sinister smile on his face.

“Wait, how will we know Keane will come back into town?” asked Raider.

“There is little game around these parts, with the Twin Rivers clan. I’m sure Keane will come back into town for food and when he does we’ll be waiting.” Stone answered.

Chapter 11- Kidnapped

It had been two days since Fritz had died. Keane was still living in the rock shelter, hunting rabbits with little success. He couldn’t go back to Koyuk, not yet he had to figure out what had happened to Fritz and prove his innocents. Keane dove after a rabbit, but it quickly ran to it hole. Keane growled with frustration, well at least the weather is nice. The fell inches of snow that had fallen four days ago, when Keane was taken away from Koyuk had melted.

“I’m tired of this, I didn’t kill Fritz.” Keane said making up his mind.

“There has got to be some food around here.” Keane told himself. It was ten o’clock; Keane crept silently through the sleepy town. Keane had spent most of the day trying to catch food. Keane walked down the main street looking down alleys for trashcans.

“Excellent not go get the pup.” Stone said to Rush “and remember meet me up at the Glacier Pass.”

Rush raced off to Sasha house.

“Fifteen more minutes, please.” Sky begged his mother.

“O.k. you can play out for fifteen more minutes, got it?” Sasha said giving into her pup.

“Yes momma.” Sky said rubbing up against his moms’ leg.

“Now be good.” Sasha said before giving her pup a lick on the nose.

Sasha went through the doggie door. Sky growled and pounced on his red ball. The ball slid out from underneath him and bounced towards end of the porch.

“Perfect.” Rush said.

Rush quickly ran across the street and around Sasha’s house. Sky pouched on the ball and it slid off the porch. Sky growled and ran to the edge and looked down at the ball that had rolled away from the porch. Sky jumped off the porch. Rush stormed after the pup and quickly picked him up by the scruff of the neck and sprinted towards the end of town.

“Please don’t hurt me, what did I ever do to you?” pleaded the small husky named Sparky.

“Look at him cower Carbon.” Raider said to Carbon.

“Is the little doggie scared?” Carbon taunted.

Carbon attacked the defenseless black husky. Carbon grabbed the husky by the back of the neck and threw him up against the wall of a convenience store. Raider than dove in and grabbed Sparky by the scruff of his neck and shock him wildly, like he was a rag doll before throwing him against the ground.

Rush was running down the east side street, he quickly stopped by an ally where Carbon and Raider where attacking the helpless husky.

“What are you going to do to me?” asked Sky with tears streaming down his face.

Rush kept his eyes fixed on Carbon and Raider. Carbon again attacked the dog and threw him up against the wall. Rush shook his head wildly before letting go of Sky. Sky landed on the ground hard.

“Remember the husky needs to be alive, he’s no good to us dead yet and remember wait 10 minutes after I leave.” ordered Rush.

Rush quickly picked up a dazed Sky and sprinted out of town towards Glacier Pass.

“Come to kill another dog, Keane?” spat Stone.

Keane quickly stopped eating the bits of food he found in a trashcan.

“What do you want Stone?” Keane said tensing up.

“Oh, nothing.” Stone said as he walked to Keane.

“Well if you don’t want anything, than leave.” Keane said to Stone.

“Fine but, I know who kill your friend Fritz but since you want me to leave.” Stone said luring Keane into his trap as he turned from Keane.

Keane lowered his guard.

“Who, who killed Fritz?” Keane asked walking closer to Stone.

“Well …… Me!” Stone snarled as he turned and attacked Keane.

Keane was caught off guard and was pushed on his back. Stone with his two fronts paws pinned Keane on his back.

“You want to know something else, you little Sky won’t live to see tomorrow either.” Stone snarled.

Stone push hard on Keane’s stomach be fore leaping off and heading out to the ally. Stone sprinted out of town and headed for Glacier Pass.

“It’s been 10 minutes.” Raider said to Carbon.

“Sky, your father says you have to come in now.” Sasha said coming out of the doggie door.

“Sky, this isn’t funny.” Sasha said getting worried.

“I know where he is.” Raider said coming up to the porch.

“You, what do you know, where is Sky?” Sasha demanded.

“Keane he toke Sky and head up towards Glacier Pass. He doesn’t care who gets I his way.” Rush said gesturing toward Carbon who was carrying Sparky on his back.

“Savick, Savick.” Sasha yelled.

“What is it?” Savick said as he came out from the house.

“Keane he took Sky and headed up towards Glacier Pass. He even beat up this poor dog, who got in his way.” Sasha said with a worry in her voice.

“I get him, you three take the dog to the vets.” Savick said.

Savick jumped off the porch and sprinted towards Glacier Pass.

Chapter 12- I’m Sorry

His paws splashed in the water of the lake, he had arrived at Glacier Pass. Rush put the pup down in the cold water.

“What are you going to do? What did you take me?” Sky said with tears still streaming down his face.

Rush snapped at Sky just missing him by at inch. Suddenly a big black shadow arrived from out of the woods.

“We have five minutes before he gets here.” Stone said looking over his should to the woods.

“He?” questioned Sky.

Stone snapped at the pup and grabbed him by the neck and was shaking his head wildly. Stone opened his mouth, sending Sky flying through the air before landing hard on the ground. Rush was on Sky quickly, and bit at him tearing Sky apart. The pup never made a sound, during his ordeal. Rush brought the lifeless pup over Stone. Keane charged out of the wood and at Stone. Keane jumped at Stone and knocked him over.

Rush attacked Keane at his flank. Keane whirled around ran towards Rush, the two collided. Keane managed to get Rush on his back but, Stone quickly pulled him off of Rush and threw him to the ground. Keane watched as the two dogs stood snarling in front of him.

“We have to go now.” Stone ordered. Suddenly Stone took off towards Twin Rivers and Rush followed, the where going back to White Mountain.

“Sky!” Keane called. There was no answer.

Keane looked around than, he saw the young pup’s lifeless body. Keane walked over to the pup. Keane looked down at the lifeless body. The dog’s eyes where open, with fear.

“How could this happen?” Keane questioned himself. “He would never have harmed a soul. I’m… I’m sorry, you had to pay with your life.” Keane said with a tear rolling down his cheek.

Savick charged from out of the woods and pounced on Keane. They both rolled in the grass before Savick pinned Keane down.

“You killed him!” Savick said with rage.

“I didn’t…” Keane said trying to explain.

“Liar.” Savick yelled.

They looked into each other’s eyes and Keane saw a change in his eyes. Savick got up and walked over to his dead son. Savick’s rage disappeared and only sadness remained for the loss of his son.

“I’m so…” Keane said.

“I want you to leave.” said Savick.

“Does this mean you…” asked Keane.

“Now!” snarled Savick.

Keane ran towards Twin Rivers, he stopped and looked over his shoulder.

“I’m sorry for your pain.” Keane whispered and he headed off towards Twin Rivers.

Chapter 13- Attack

Keane stopped once he reached Twin Rivers. It was two miles away from Glacier Pass. Keane lapped up some water. Something pounced on Keane it was Rush. Keane quickly threw him off only to be rammed by Stone; Keane fell on his side hard. Rush made a lunge at him; Keane quickly kicked his legs, hitting Rush in the jaw.

Stone lunged at Keane’s throat and held on. Keane kicked his hind legs and scratched Stone’s right eye forcing Stone to let go. Keane quickly got up and faced the dogs. Rush charged forward at Keane. Keane charged keeping his head low, till he met with Rush. Keane knocked Rush on his back, Keane kept moving forward. Keane clamped hard on Rush’s neck.

Stone grabbed Keane by the scruff and tried to pull him off of Rush. Rush kicked furiously, Keane squeezed hard on Rush’s neck. Keane closed his eyes shut and held onto Rush’s neck. The dog gasped from air, Rush was soon dead. Keane still had his jaws clamped tight on the dead husky. Stone quickly charged knocking Keane over, making him let go of Rush. Keane fell hard on the ground. Stone charged again, Keane quickly leapt to his feet and out of Stone’s way.  

Keane headed towards the river. It was cold up against his body, Keane paddled furiously. Stone jumped in after the husky. The river was calm making it easier to swim across. Keane reached the other side and ran up the bank and into the woods. Stone leapt up onto the bank and ran after Keane. Keane ran his body was starting to go numb from the chilling water that was on him.

Even thought there was no snow on the ground it was still cold out side. As Keane ran he felt like he was being stung with a thousand needles from the icy cold water that was on his coat. Keane kept his eyes and ears pealed for any signs of Stone or any wolves that are known to live in the area. Keane ran up a small hill. Keane turned and saw Stone leaping for him. Keane braced himself; the dogs met and went tumbling down the hill. Keane pushed Stone off of him.

Keane kept his eyes fixed on Stone. Stone suddenly saw something up on the hill behind Keane. Keane turned and looked over his shoulder and saw what Stone was looking at a white wolf.