The days of Spring

     A new friend

       It was the first of June 1922, in Nome a three year old girl with red hair and shining emerald eyes awoke to find her father sitting on her bed.

 “Wake up sleepyhead today’s the day” her father said kissing her cheek.

“Morning Daddy, I am so excited” the girl replied as she was lifted out of bed and placed onto her father’s shoulders.

    Sitting on her father’s shoulder the girl laughed as he acted like a dog, barking as he walked downstairs, the belt of his red dressing gown swinging from side to side. Reaching the kitchen the pair found the girl’s mother waiting for them, with three plates of scrambled eggs on toast sitting on the table, the smell if coffee wafting from a pot in the middle of the table. Sitting down the family tucked into their breakfasts, the girl’s father reading the Nome Nugget as he ate.

  “Are you exited Rosie?” asked the girl’s mother.

“Yes I cannot wait to see them” Rosie replied with a wide smile. “I hope one will like me.”

“Of course one will you are such as wonderful person, any puppy would be happy to have you as their owner.”

 “Your mother is right Emerald” her father replied. “You have a wonderful heart.”

 “I just hope I can meet one who will like to play.”

“Well we not get out sitting here in our nightwear, do you want to go first Arthur?” asked Rosie’s mother turning to face her husband.

 “You had best go first Violet, you women do take longer to get ready” Arthur replied with a chuckle. “I swear you must go through half your wardrobe!”

  “Oh you” Violet replied, playfully swatting Arthur on the head with the paper as she left the room.

    An hour later the family left their house and made their way to the outskirts of town. Passing the post office they watched as the mail team was unharnessed, with the lead dog, a red and cream male walking up to them.

 “Hello Fire are you coming with us?” Rosie asked stroking the dog.

     At this Fire let out a bark, soon they reached a house enclosed behind a high wooden fence, the sound of barking could be heard from within. Sitting on a chair on the porch was a man, Bernard, his leg up on a stool and a pair of crutches resting on the chair arm. Bernard was Fire’s musher and normally drove the mail team, however a month previously he had fallen off a ladder while fixing the guttering and was now on desk duties. Seeing the family and Fire he got up, his crutches clinking as he walked. Seeing his owner Fire wagged him and handing him a small package.

 “Arthur it is good to see you” Bernard said shaking his hand. “So are you ready Rosie?”

“Yes Mr Beach.”

“Call me Bernard. Well you have certainly made the right impression coming home with Fire, they are his pups after all” Bernard replied, leading Rosie to the back of the house.

      Seconds later a female red and cream husky called Fiona bounded up to Fire licking him all over, with five puppies jumping onto his back, three male and two female. Seeing Rosie the pups understood, as all had been told they would be given to new homes within the next couple of days. The reaction of the pups differed the boys took no notice of her, the idea of being owned by a girl making them cringe. The girls seemed curios, with one looking directly into her eyes before walking over and sniffing her hand. Kneeling down in the snow Rosie stroked the pup’s soft fur, laughing as the pup licked her face. Then the pup raced to a corner of the yard, coming back with a blue ball seconds later. Dropping the ball at Rosie’s feet the pup let out a bark and wagged her tail. Picking up the ball Rosie threw it as hard as she could, the pup racing after it the moments it left her hand. Picking up the ball the pup walked back and dropped the ball at Rosie’s feet once more. This game continued for a short time under the watchful eyes of both sets of parents.

 “I would like to adopt this puppy” Rosie said as she hugged the puppy.

“Very well then she is yours” Bernard replied. “Take good care of her.”

“I will I promise” Rosie replied as Fire and Fiona walked up and licked both her and their daughter.

“What are you going to call her?” Violet asked as they said goodbye to Bernard.

“Jenna, just like the mermaid princess in the story. She had red hair and the puppy has red fur.”

 “That is the perfect name for such a wonderful puppy” Violet replied stroking Jenna.

     Passing through town Jenna looked this way and that, her senses full of new smells and sounds, her curiosity growing by the minuet. Although Jenna had been into town before, she had never been without her parents. Reaching Rosie’s house the pair raced out into the back yard, chasing each other as Arthur and Violet watched from the kitchen door.

 “Rosie Jenna” Arthur called taking a picture as they turned around, their faces full of delight.

        As lunchtime arrived the sky began to darken, placing three plates on the table Violet called Rosie and Jenna inside, with the heavens opening as second the family sat down to lunch. The rain bounced off the roof, thunder rumbled and lighting flashed, those unfortunate enough to be outside ran for cover or put up umbrellas and hoods.

  “Drat” Arthur muttered looking outside. “There goes my plan to wash the windows.”

“Never mind, you can start on painting the spare room you have been promising to start for a month” Violet replied smiling at her husband.

 “Oh don’t start Vi……I’ve not started it because I’ve been too busy prosecuting that bank robber……..sometimes I hate being a lawyer.”

  “I know you do Art” Violet replied kissing him on the cheek. “But you did put him behind bars and made sure the money was returned to the bank.”

  “Well I suppose I did and he did get ten to fifteen years so I won’t be see him any time soon” Arthur replied proudly.

 “He was a bad mad, you did a good job” Rosie said with a smile.

“He was Rosie and it was a nice feeling when he was sentenced, that combined with the look on his face.”

     As Arthur made a start on repainting the spare room Rosie took Jenna to her room, looking around the room Jenna investigated every corner. Walking over to a large wooden chest with fairies on it, Rosie opened the lid, revealing a multitude of outfits. It was her dressing up box and had been made by Arthur. Walking over Jenna put her paws on its sides as Rosie pulled out a set of fairy wings and wand along with a string of pink beads which she placed around Jenna. Together the pair were soon in a world of fairies, forest palaces, magic and unicorns, flying through an enchanted forest on fairy wings. Opening the door Arthur chuckled at the pair as they attempted to tame a dragon, his eyes flicking between his daughter and the green cuddly dragon. As evening approached, Jenna was standing at the edge of a well (the dressing up box) when she fell in. When she “surfaced” she was holding a red bandanna in her mouth, her tailing wagging. Walking over Rosie “rescued” Jenna and placed her on the floor.

 “Do you like this bandanna Jenna?”

      In reply Jenna let out a short woof and dropped the bandanna on the floor. Picking it up Rosie knelt down and tied it around her neck, having to fold it over a couple of times so it would fit. Picking her up Rosie took Jenna over to a mirror so that she could see what she looked like. At that moment the door opened and Violet walked into the room, the scent of dinner wafting into the room.

  “Dinner time girls.”

“Coming Mummy” Rosie replied taking off her wings.

     That night Rosie curled up in her bed with Jenna her arms wrapped around her, the covers drawn up around them. From the door Arthur and Violet smiled at the sight before turning out the light. As they fell asleep the pair thought about the fun they had had and all the fun they would have. A friendship had been formed that would last a lifetime.

    Family day out       

  The 4^th off July had arrived and like every other city and town in America, Nome had turned out in force to celebrate. The town was done up to the nines, windows had been washed, paintwork redone, streets swept and every inch decorated with the American colours. In her house Rosie twirled in her blue dress her hair in braids tied with white ribbons. Next to her stood Jenna a white scarf replacing her usually bandana, Violet was in a lovely white dress and Arthur in a white suit with blue tie. As Violet adjusted Arthur’s tie the doorbell rang and Arthur’s parents Wilfred and Hilda walked in. Both were dressed in blue with their white hair shining like snow, their shoe’s shining jet black.

 “Grandpa Wilf” Rosie cried running to him.

  “Rosanna you have grown” Wilfred laughed picking her up.

“She has indeed” Hilda replied picking up Jenna. “It appears she has the family height. What your puppy is called?”
“Jenna.”

“That is a lovely name” Hilda replied ticking Jenna behind the ear. “That is your Auntie’s middle name.”

 “I did notice that Mother” Arthur said kissing her on the cheek. “Well we had better be going if we want to find a good position for the parade.”

 “Oh Arthur you have remembered to lock the log shed haven’t you?” Violet asked as they left the house. “We do not need another wolverine in there.”

 “Of course I have, it has been locked then bolted and I checked it twice.”

      Making their way to the town centre main the family passed other residence both humans and dogs, with Jenna sticking very close to Rosie and Arthur. As they reached the main street Rosie waved to a blonde girl with an afghan puppy standing next to her.

  “Hello Annabelle.”

“Hi Rosanna, oh is this your new puppy?”

“Yes her name is Jenna, maybe she could be friends with Sylvia” Rosie replied stroking Sylvia.

  “That would be fun they could play together when we do.”

       Standing next to their owners Jenna and Sylvia looked at each other, both a little unsure what to think of the other.

 “Er hello my name is Jenna.”

“Hi my name is Sylvia.”

“Our owners are good friends.”

“Yes Rosie comes to play at my house a lot.”

“I do not have any friends besides Rosie.”

“I only know Annabelle and her family because some of the sled dogs do not like me and are mean to me. Mummy had me while she was performing here and Annabelle chose me.”

“I like you, would you like to be friends?”

“I would like that a lot” Sylvia replied with a smile.

      Walking down the street the families chatted, Rosie and Annabelle’s mothers had grown up next door to teach day and were best friends. Their still lived on the same street as Annabelle’s house was four doors down from Rosie’s. Their mothers both participated in the local amateur dramatics society, Rosie and Annabelle had known each other since they were born, both girls were glad their dogs were friends. Gathering along the main street the families joined with others to watch the parade. On the lead float was the town mayor and local officials, next the mining company, the fire service. On the next flout was Miss Nome with the famous sled dog Togo stood next to her, with her maids throwing bags of candy to the children in the crowd. Brass bands marched in the parade with the cast of the local theatre performing on one of the larger floats. Rosie and Annabelle cheered and their fathers lifted them onto their shoulders, even managing to catch some sweets. On the floor Jenna and Sylvia jumped up in attempt to catch sweets with both being successful. As the parade reached the town hall the mayor made a speech to the townsfolk and received a tremendous applause in return.

   Walking through the town Annabelle and Rosie’s families chatted and watched the outside performers, with the town theatre having a stage set up outside while inside normal townsfolk were given chance to perform a song or a scene. Both humans and dogs laughed as they watched the musical comedy, epically at the scene where a shopkeeper took a frying pan to his head from a shelf. Many of the shops had set up stalls and the local Inuit’s sold their crafts to the delight of their friends and workmates.

 “Arthur” came a voice and everyone turned around to see Arthur and Wilfred’s colleague Walter walking towards them with his fiancée Eleanor.

 “Good afternoon Walter” Arthur replied shaking the young man’s hand.

   “Good morning Arthur, Violet you look beautiful as do you Rosanna.”

“You are to kind Walter” Violet replied shaking his hand. “Eleanor you look wonderful.”

“Oh thank you Violet” Eleanor replied, her blonde hair shining in the sunlight. “Rosanna you have grown so much, your puppy is very sweet.”

 “Her name is Jenna” Rosie replied as Eleanor’s eleven year old Evelyn sister walked over with a lavender and white puppy.

  “Good afternoon” Evelyn said.

  “Hi”

“Good afternoon.”

    Next to their owner’s the puppies looked at each other with curiosity with Jenna and Sylvia’s eyes landing on the other puppies white collar and star shaped tag.

  “Good afternoon I am called Dixie.”

“I am called Sylvia.”

“My name is Jenna.”

“Our owners appear to be acquainted” Dixie replied.

“Well your owner’s father is the mayor after all” Jenna replied.

“He is, Nome is such a nice town, I have only been here a couple of weeks, I was a present to Evelyn from the Governor of Alaska when he came to visit.”

“Nome is a nice to place to live you will be happy here” Jenna replied wagging her tail.

“You are a nice dog Dixie would you like to me friends with Jenna and I?” Sylvia asked as Jenna nodded in agreement.

 “Yes please” Dixie replied smiling at her new friends.

    Leaving Eleanor, Evelyn, Dixie and Walter, Rosie and Annabelle’s families walked to the edge of town and the funfair that had been set up. Both girls grinned at each other and Jenna and Sylvia looked on with confusion and curiosity.

  “Pick your first ride girls” said Wilfred drawing his wallet out. “I will pay for this.”

        Rosie and Annabelle exchanged a look and ran over to the carrousel jumping onto two horses.

  “I used to love the carrousel as a child” Violet whispered.

“Then you and Ruby should jump into the carriage behind Rosie and Anna, you could even have the pups on your knees” Wilfred looking at his daughter in law.

“Wilfred I think we are a little old.”

“Nonsense.”

“Come on Violet for old time’s sake, besides you went on with Art the year you married.”

“Alright, thank you Wilfred” Violet replied.

    Picking up Jenna and Sylvia Violet and Ruby walked over to the carrousel and climbed into the carriage behind their daughter’s horses. Sitting on their horses Rosie and Anna smiled widely as the ride started and Jenna and Sylvia wagged their tails with delight. From the sidelines Rosie’s and Anna’s fathers took pictures. When the ride ended Jenna and Sylvia ran to their owners, their tails wagging.

  “That was fun” Jenna whispered as they walked on.

“It was we should do it again” Sylvia replied.

     Walking through the fair the families continued to enjoy themselves. The men took a ride on the largest rollercoaster at the fair and the girls a ride on a smaller one for children. The Ferris Wheel was fun for all, as everyone sat in a carriage and watched the world go by, with Jenna and Sylvia sat in their owner’s knees. As she looked over Nome with awe Jenna’s eyes landed in another carriage, inside sat next to a young boy was a black and white husky a year older than Jenna. Then for some reason the husky looked her way and waved at her, his eyes dancing with mischief and fun. A few rides later, Arthur stood in front of a stall trying to knock down fourteen cans to win Rosie a princess doll, despite his bets efforts he only managed ten and won a large cuddly wolf.

“Thank you Daddy” Rosie said hugging her wolf.

“A wolf how fitting” Violet said glancing at her husband.

“Er yes it is, remember the wolf we had in town in January?”

“How could I forget? It gave me a terrible right when I heard it howl, of all days to be ill in bed.”

 “Well imagine how I felt when I saw Rosie staring at it through the window?”

      Walking through the fair the families ate caribou burgers they passed clowns on stilts; a magician pulled an arctic hare out of a musher’s hat and then made performed a series of card tricks. As the evening arrived they made their way back into town with many other residents, everyone laughing and telling jokes. Sitting on an outside table the families watched a musical version of Cinderella as they ate dinner. As the light began to fade lanterns were lit and fireworks rocket up into the sky. Both Sylvia and Jenna jumped at first but were soon entranced at the sight, their eyes fixed on the beautiful fireworks. As the fireworks erupted a band began to play and everyone took to their feet and began to dance. By the time the festivities ended that night Jenna and Rosie had to be carried home. The fourth had been a success and Jenna knew she had made lifelong friends. 

     Summer Days

     Summer was in full flow, there was little darkness and everything was in bloom with the August sunshine providing welcome warmth. The schools were closed for another month and Nome was full of children and dogs enjoying themselves. In the adventure playground Jenna and Rosie played under Violet’s watchful eyes. Standing at the top of the smaller of the two jungle gyms Jenna and Rosie were sat on tip of the slide. Wagging her tail Jenna let out a bark and pushed herself with her paws, with Rosie doing the same with her hands. The pair slid down the tube slide, their laughter echoing through the tube as they slid down and landed in the dirt at the bottom. Running up to the larger jungle gym they ran over a wooden bridge between two towers and collided with a boy and husky.

  “Sorry Robin” Rosie said looking up at a boy with dark brown hair a year older than her.

“That is alright Rosie you were playing, this your new puppy?”
“Yes her name is Jenna.”

“She is only a year younger Steel… maybe they could be friends” Robin replied stroking the puppy. “His father is the famous sled dog Iron.”

      Standing next to their owners Steel and Jenna looked at each other with their tails wagging.

“You run fast Jenna, I have seen you around town before” Steel said.

 “I have seen you as well with others dogs and at the fourth celebrations.”

“That was such a fun day, would you like to play with me?”

“I would love to, Sylvia and Dixie are too scared to come up here, I cannot even get them to have a go on the smallest slide. You would not mind playing with a dog younger than you?” Jenna replied.

 “No. My mother’s best friend is a year younger than her. I love this place” Steel replied. “Tag”

       Running through the jungle gym Steel soon had Jenna, Robin and Rosie hot on his heels. At the top of the tallest tower Steel increased his speed and jumped into the tube slide paws first, followed by his friends, all landing in a heap at the bottom. Getting up they ran over to the swings where some of the older children played. As their owners swung high into the air Steel and Jenna chased each other around the playground. As evening approached the children went home to their parents. Walking behind their owners Steel and Jenna chatted to one another both aware that they had made a new friend.

       A couple of days later Arthur, Violet, Jenna and Rosie walked through the forest near Nome with Arthur and Violet carrying a picnic basket and rug. Placing the blanket under a large tree on the bank of a river the family sat down and began to eat their picnic. As they ate they watched a family of otters swim by their fur sleek and shining in the sunlight. Reaching into the basket Rosie took out a chocolate muffin and placed it in front of Jenna. Sniffing it curiously Jenna took a bite and liked it immediately, wolfing down the remainder in seconds.

  “Ah this is the life” Arthur muttered lying back against the tree. “Nothing to do other then listen to the birds.”

 “It is lovely to be out of town” Violet replied.

      Near the river Jenna and Rosie played fetch with a bright pink ball when Rosie threw it so hard that it sent sailing over to the opposite bank.

  “Daddy can you please get the ball?”
“How on earth did you manage to get it over there?”

“I threw it hard.”

  “Well it is not that surprising I was a good baseball player, now let me see, how do I get over?”

  “Try to avoid falling in this time Art” Violet called grinning sly at her husband. 

 “That was one time, the boys and I had had a few on that picnic.”

“Oh you certainly had, it was a trio of drowned rats that clamoured out of the water.”

        Walking along the riverbank Arthur came to a log that was across the river carefully he climbed onto it and walked across it. Jumping off Arthur walked along the bank until he reached the ball, picking it up he threw it across, with Jenna catching it. Walking back across he was embraced by Violet before joining Rosie and Jenna in their game. Watching her family Violet took out her sketchpad and sketched the scene. Kneeling down on all fours Arthur pretended to be a bear while Jenna defended Rosie from said bear. In a flash Arthur jumped up and scooped Rosie up, twirling her around before collapsing onto the grass. Slowly the afternoon wore on and evening drew in, despite the fact it was still light outside. Walking home through the forest Jenna and Rosie walked side by side, as they passed a hill outside Nome the family stopped as a howl ripped through the air. Turning around they saw a wolf pack emerge from the mist standing on the hill, their eyes fixed on them. Time seemed to stop as the wolves stared at the family. Out of midst of the pack walked a stunning white female, her yellow eyes looking into Rosie’s green ones. The female let out a long howl which was taken up by the entire pack. Then the mist surged once more when it cleared the pack had vanished, their tracks the only sign they had been there.

“Well that was a lucky sighting” Arthur said. “It is not often you see a pack of wolves.”

“The white one was pretty” Rosie replied as they arrived home.

“She was” Arthur replied smiling. That night all slept soundly in their beds, with Rosie and Jenna both dreaming of the wolves.

      It was the last week of the school holidays, on the beach Jenna, Rosie, Sylvia, Anna, Robin, Steel, Kaltag and Kaltag’s owner Harvey played together. Harvey was the same age of Robin with hair a similar colour to Kaltag’s fur. All were wearing cloaks and holding wooden swords and shields, with the puppies also having cloaks tied around them. The humans were warriors, Jenna, Sylvia and Kaltag were monsters and Steel was playing a wolf. Running between old fishing boats the warriors fought the monsters. Looking at Rosie, Steel bared his teeth and snarled at her while she attacked him with her sword. Nearby Jenna and Harvey fought near the water while Kaltag chased Annabelle between the boats. Suddenly Rosie slipped down a sand dune landing with a splash in the water. Within seconds she was on her feet and running after Steel. As they played their laughter and joy echoing through the beach, six best friends.

        Portside 

       Autumn had arrived in Nome, walking through the town Jenna looked this way and that, her eyes watching the daily dramas unfold. From the theatre music could be heard as the days rehearsals took place, bicycles and carts passed each other on the streets with many delivering supplies to the various shops while. From the general store there came a sudden crash followed a curse as a heavy pan fell from a shelf onto the manager’s foot. Through an open window of the lawyers offices shouting could be heard, one voice belonging to Arthur before the window was slammed shut. Passing the carpenters Jenna watched as a chest of draws, kitchen table, four chairs and a bookcase were loaded into a cart.

  “JENNA”

       Turning around Jenna saw Steel walking towards her with his tail wagging.

“Hi Steel.”

“So your owners have finally allowed you out alone.”

“At last, I was so tired of being kept inside.”

“That must have been boring, so what are your plans?”

“I don’t have any.”

“I’ve an idea how about we explore the harbour?”

“That will be fun I’ve always wanted to see the port” Jenna replied grinning at her friend.

        Setting off the pair walked towards the harbour with many of humans and carts on the road with them. Sailors with their bags walked to their ships, dock workers with dirty clothes spoke of the day’s works, miners with dirty faces and bags walked passed in groups, well off passengers passed by in carts with their luggage piled high. Carts by the dozen rumbled passed with all number of items from fresh fruit to kitchen sinks. Jenna and Steel jumped to one side as a young man raced past, his feet barely touching the ground as he ran for a ship. Those newly arrived in Nome passed by in the opposite direction, some were sailors, others walked with Nome residents and many were clearly either tourist or those who would work in the town until autumn.

   Reaching the port the scent of oil, coal, fish, salt, tobacco and a hundred others things filled their noses. The passenger ship Alameda was moored next to the US naval ship the latter was currently being cleaned by the crew. The crew of the Alameda were out in force as they assisted passengers with disembarking and the unloading of cargo, a piece of which was a grand piano. Fisherman unloaded their catch and took care of their boats, doing everything from repainting to fixing broken windows. Walking over to one boat the pair saw a large grey tom with a torn ear sat on a box. Seeing the pups the cat hissed and drew his claws angrily.

 “Stay away from me dogs.”

“We don’t want to chase you” Steel replied.

“A likely story I was not born yesterday pup I know what dogs are like.”

“But we are telling the truth.”

“You little fools this is my patch so leave it NOW” the cat replied leaping in front of them.

“This is a free town” Steel snarled and Jenna growled. “We have every right to be here.”

      The cat realised its claws and prepared to strike when a strong hand grabbed it by its scruff and hurled it away. With an angry hiss the cat landed on its feet and vanished down the nearest ally. Looking up the pups saw the cat’s owner staring down at them, his weather beaten hands stroking their fur. Walking away the pair arrived at the Alameda that was now clear of humans.

  “Do you think we should take a look around?” Steel asked looking at the boat.

“It would be fun and we might not get another, what happens if we get caught?”

  “We can outrun any human we are pure breed huskies after all and human are so slow.”

“Let’s go” Jenna replied grinning at her friend.

       Together the pair ran up onto the boat and onto the deck their claws making a gentle noise of the wood. Looking around the pair spotted a large metal cage in one corner of the deck, inside it was a large male beaver. Walking over the pair saw the sadness in its eyes but also noticed that though the bolts were drawn the locks were not locked.

  “Well now two husky pups what are you doing here?” asked the beaver.

 “We live in Nome and fancied a look around the boat” Jenna replied.

“That is good for you to be free how I wish I was.”

“Why are you in this cage?” Steel asked.

“I am a trophy of the trip.”

“That is cruel and unfair I am so sorry” Jenna replied sadly.

“Jenna look” Steel whispered pointing to the open locks. “Our friend would not understand but we do.”

“Of course” Jenna whispered looking at Steel “You can be free Mr Beaver.”

“How is that possible?”

    Working together Jenna removed the locks while Steel drew back the bolts with his teeth, using their combined strength to open the door. The amazed beaver stepped out of his cage and sniffed the air.

  “Thank you both very much.”

“Don’t thank us just yet we still have to get you off the boat” Steel replied.

      Together the three animals ran down the gangplank onto the ground instantly the beaver dived into the water.

 “THANK YOU BOTH YOU HAVE GOOD HEARTS” he called before diving underwater.

       Watching him go Steel and Jenna smiled at each other both waving their tails in goodbye.

“I am glad we were able to help him he did not deserve to be kept as a pet” Steel said watching the beaver.

  “He would have been so unhappy in a cage at least now he is free” Jenna replied as they walked on.

     Walking further on the pair came to the naval ship where they were spotted by a couple of off duty sailors.

“Looks like the locals have come for a look around” said one.

“I bet they want a look around the boat” said another as he wrote in a notebook.

 “Well you cannot blame them for being curious” said the first man as the Captain arrived.

“Well what have we here?” He said kneeling down and stroking the dogs. “They are certainly a friendly pair.”

  “They just arrived Sir seemed very curious about the boat.”

“We should take them to the bridge the crew would be pleased to see them, might even lift their spirits” the Captain replied. “I imagine being on duty is a little tedious when we are in port.”

 “Imagine so Sir.”

    Picking up the pups the captain took them on board and onto the bridge where they were greeted by the rest of the crew. Grinning at the pups the crew stroked them and gave them each a biscuit which was shaped like a ship. Under the eye of an officer the pups were taken below deck and showed the crews living quarters, passing both on and off duty crew. Opening one door they found its occupant laying bunk reading a book, seeing the pups he grinned and stroked them. In the next room the radio was on with the occupant writing a letter to his family. All greeted the pups cheerily and one even giving them a piece of fudge.  A few rooms later found the occupants absent  a few magazines on a bed and several family pictures on the walls. Walking down to the next deck all heard laughter from a room. Leaving the ship a short time later Steel and Jenna waved their tails in goodbye glad they had lifted the sailor’s spirits.

      Walking along the harbour they watched as cargo was unloaded, some of which was placed into carts by crane. Sat on a cart Dr Curtis Welch helped load medical supplies bandages, crutches, and a box of anti toxin among others items were placed gently into the cart. Seeing the pups Dr Welch climbed down and stroked them, as town doctor he knew each and every resident well something which meant he knew who owned dogs.  Leaving the doctor the pair heard a variety of accents being spoken by the sailors, American, Russian, Norse, Welsh and Irish to name a few. In the midst of hustle and bustle the sound of a tin whistle drifted to Steel and Jenna’s ears, following the sound the pair came to a quartet of Irishman sitting on boxes. The man playing the whistle was about forty with the youngest no more than twenty two. Walking over the pair sat at their feet as the men sang of home, of Little Ireland in New York City and spoke of the family they had left behind. One even spoke of the Emerald Isle, of Tara where the ancient kings were crowned and Dublin on the river Liffey. Jenna and Steel listened with fascination utterly entranced by the songs. Seeing the pair the youngest man bent down to stroke them running his fingers through his soft fur.

  “You are a pretty pup girl red hair just like mine.”

“A husky that one will be pulling a sled this winter” said one man.

       Then a horn sounded through the port with a sound of a ship’s engines staring up and the gangplanks being raised. As the ship set off there was the sound of shouting as three young men raced towards the boat, one jumped and managed to grab onto a rope. With the help of two crew members he was hauled aboard with a huge grin on his face.

  “Thanks for that mates, almost missed it” he gasped with relief

      On the dock the other two cursed their rotten luck, the boat and whisky at Jo’s bar. Looking at the pair Steel and Jenna laughed as they walked home.

  “Today has me such fun Steel.”

“We have seen so much today, it was fun playing with Jenna.”

“Thank you Steel” Jenna laughed as they ran through the streets.

Winters Beginning

      Winter had arrived in Nome, standing at the port Jenna, Rosie, Violet and many other residents watched as the last ship until spring departed. As the ship moved into the open ocean seals swam next to it to the delight of the crew. Walking along the harbour the three watched as the seals played in the water, their sleek bodies perfectly suited to the icy conditions. Leaving the harbour the three walked home, passing the mail team on the way with Steel and his fellow rookie Kaltag barking out greetings. Arriving home Violet headed indoors while Rosie and Jenna stayed out playing with Annabelle and Sylvia as well as other children and dogs that lived in the area. The dogs raced each other while their human friends engaged in a snowball fight, with more than one ball hitting a window when it’s intend target ducked. It was not only windows that were hit, Dr Welch had the misfortune of receiving one in the face as he left a house.

  “Sorry Doc” called the boy who had thrown it. “I was aiming at my mate.”

“Not to worry son” Dr Welch replied laughing throwing one back at the boy.

       The snowball fight proved poplar, very popular in fact, with some of the older children ambushing their fathers when they arrived home from work. The men received a freezing shock and once they had recovered their wits a furious fight between fathers and children erupted. With Jenna and Rosie at his side Arthur walked the house collapsing onto the sofa in exhaustion.  That night Jenna and Rosie curled up in bed together utterly exhausted from the day’s fun.

     The following day the townsfolk awoke to discover that fifteen foot of snow had fallen in the night. Donning coats and boots people forced their doors open and began the task of clearing paths, buildings and opening business. For Rosie and Jenna the snow brought fun as they spent the day building a snowman with Violet dressing him up in an old tie (an eye aching shade of green) and very battered top hat. Arriving home that evening Arthur admired their work before, glad to see that tie had been put to good use. Getting out his camera Arthur took a picture of the three with the snowman.    

     Two days later Jenna, Rosie, Violet and Arthur stood at the side of the racetrack watching as Fire raced Togo’s team to the finish line. Both teams were neck and neck, out of the blue,  Fire put on a burst of speed crossing the finish line seconds before Togo. The crowd cheered with delight at such an exciting race with Rosie and Jenna rushing over to Fire and Fiona.

 “That was amazing Dad you were so close” Jenna said nuzzling her parents.

 “It certainly was Togo is fast and young Steel has a natural talent” Fire replied.

“Well Togo is seen as a legend but he lost this race” Fiona said as Togo walked over.

 “Congratulations both of you that last corner was certainly close.”

“Thank you Togo you raced well.”

“Thanks. Sure is strange not having Cathán leading a team” Togo replied as other teams arrived.

 “It certainly is, for the past few years we have all won races and then celebrated together” Fiona replied thinking of their friend.

 “I wonder where he went and what he is doing.”

    At this Fire and Fiona shared a secret smile at went unnoticed by Togo.

“If I know Cathán I am sure he is happy” Fire replied grinning at Jenna.

“What I want to know is why he left in the first place. I just cannot understand it, he was at the height of his career, why on earth would he leave in the middle of last season?”

“That we may never know” replied Fire

 “Personally I think it all has something to do with that white wolf he was dating, fool that he was, I think we ran off with her” Togo finished as Steel walked over.

 “You were amazing Steel I’ve never seen a rookie dog run so fast” Jenna barked licking her friend.

 “Thanks I cannot believe I am on a team with Togo!”

“You are so lucky to run with him.”

“He is such a great dog you would not think he was a multiple champion. Running with him has taught me loads. The other day he said I was one of the best dogs he has ever seen, said I am just like my father was at my age.”

 “That is great Steel you should be really proud of yourself.”

“I am I just love being in this team everyone is great and always willing to lend a paw.”

     Later that evening the town dogs gathered at the boiler house to celebrate with the visiting teams also joining in the celebrations. Sitting together Kaltag, Steel, Jenna, Sylvia, Dixie and Star chatted to each other. With sweets and cakes all around it was a merry party lasting well into the following morning.

         Seeing soul inside  

       It was December the 28^th in Nome Rosie and Jenna played with a ball that Jenna had been given for Christmas. Suddenly they heard an almighty crash followed by a yelp from near the log shed where the bins and scrap metal was stored. Seconds later a brown wolfish puppy appeared in front of them. Looking at the pup Jenna noticed that he was very thin and looked close to starvation.

 “I am sorry for the noise I” the pup stammered, looking at the pair with a mixture of fear and curiosity.

 “I have not seen you before. Do you know you look like a little bit like a wolf?” Jenna replied looking at the pup.

“Yep I always have, my Mother is a wolf my Dad is a husky, pretty cool right?”

“Very cool, I thought you might be half wolf, what is your name?”

“Balto.”

“I am called Jenna, you look very thin, when did you last eat?”

“About a week ago I guess. Other than a few scraps I’ve not been able to scavenge much.”   Balto replied as Rosie walked over.

 “You look thin puppy I wish I knew your name.”

    Hearing this Jenna barked using her paw to write five letters in the snow B A LT O while Rosie and Balto looked on.

  “You are smart Jenna. Is Balto your name?”

      At this Balto barked a yes as Jenna smiled at him.

“You need food, I can get you some, wait here with Jenna” Rosie replied.

     Running into the house Rosie picked up a plate placing a slice of fruit cake, some reindeer shaped chocolate biscuits, three minced pies and slices of turkey. Walking back outside Rosie placed the plate on the snow in front of Balto. Looking at Rosie Balto stepped forward and wolfed down the food, his tail wagging with delight. Eating the last biscuit Balto glanced at Rosie who held out her hand with the third minced pie in it. Slowly Balto walked forward and gently took the pie from her. For a moment Rosie looked between Jenna and Balto, then very slowly she placed her hand on Balto’s head. For a moment Balto flinched then he began to relax as Rosie stroked him.

  “You are a nice wolfie Balto I bet you can run fast with your big paws.”

        At this Balto barked before smothering Rosie in a lick to her utter delight, wrapping her arms around him as Jenna placed a paw on his back.

 “Do you like to play Balto?” Jenna asked picking up the ball from earlier.

“How do you play with it?”

“Like this” Jenna replied as Rosie threw the ball.

     Fetching the ball Jenna placed it at Rosie’s feet her eyes flicking to the confused look on Balto’s face. When Rosie threw the ball a third time both Jenna and Balto raced after it, jumping up Balto caught the ball. Running back to Rosie he copied what Jenna had done and was rewarded with a pat. For the remainder of the morning Jenna, Rosie and Balto played fetch as they played Jenna liked Balto more and more. As lunch time approached Jenna heard Arthur’s voice coming towards the back door.

“Balto you have to go now Rosie’s father is coming he will not understand.”

“I better had. I’ve had a great time Jenna.”

“So did I. Come again Balto it would be fun, I can show you around town” Jenna replied as Balto vanished down the side ally.

           A couple of days later Rosie and Jenna were playing in the garden, Rosie was playing with a set of wooden painted arctic animals. Out of snow she had made a mountain and a pool of water acted as the Bearing Sea. As Rosie placed a seal and polar bear on the ice Balto appeared from a side ally. Seeing him Jenna barked and ran over to him licking his cheek in greeting. Walking over to Rosie Balto received a hug as he looked at the toys with confusion. Quickly Jenna explained what they were with the pair soon joining in with the game. Walking out of the back door Arthur stopped in his tracks and stared at the sight of the three paying together. Seconds later Rosie, Jenna and Balto turned to stare at him, fear shining in their eyes. Walking forward Arthur knelt down in the snow, extending his hand and placing it gently on Balto’s head.

 “Well you are an odd one.”

“His name is Balto.”

“He has wolf in him as well as dog, yes his mother or father was a wolf.”

“He is a nice wolfie Jenna likes him and he likes me, we play together.”

“So I can see” Arthur replied looking at Balto. “Stand together and I will take your picture.”

     As he took the picture Arthur looked at the scene with confusion as Balto was clearly half wolf yet he acted tame with Rosie. Part of him wanted to protect Rosie and Jenna from a wolf yet another part saw how happy both were with Balto. Standing back Arthur scratched his head as he watched as the three raced around the garden.

         Three weeks had passed since Balto and Jenna’s first meeting. Sitting outside Rosie’s house the pair talked about how to survive in Nome and the best places to eat. Moments later Rosie and Violet exited the house the latter shooting a nervous glance at Balto. Seeing Balto’s wagging tale Rosie patted him before following her mother. Leaving the house Balto and Jenna walked into the town centre soon arriving outside the movie house where they found Steel, Kaltag, Star, Nikkie, Sylvia and Dixie talking about the latest release. Seeing Balto and Jenna the group turned around.

 “Everyone I would like you all the meet Balto” Jenna said greeting her friends.

“Oh my goodness he looks like a wolf!” Dixie said with shock.

“He sure does” Kaltag muttered looking at Balto with suspicion.

“I am only half wolf half dog.”

“My owner told me wolves kill humans” Star said stepping towards Balto. “Why should we trust you?”

 “Oh come on Star don’t tell me you believe that pack of lies” Steel replied walking towards Balto. “I’m Steel welcome to Nome.”

“Thanks Steel for the record I would never hurt a human.”

“Balto is telling the truth Rosie is a close friend of his and so am I” Jenna said looking around her friends.

“See guys so what if Balto has a little wolf blood? I am happy to be his friend, I think Balto’s wolf blood makes him cool” Steel replied placing a paw on Balto’s shoulder.

“But Steel our parents have” Kaltag stammered.

“So? Balto has shown those stories to be untrue, besides how do we know they are even true? How do we know they are not just a load of rubbish? They I don’t care what you guys say.”

 “Neither do I” Jenna snapped glaring at her friends. “Come on guys we know where we are not wanted.”

   Walking away Steel, Jenna and Balto passed other dogs and humans going about their daily lives.

 “You did not have to do that for me” Balto said as they walked.

“It is alright Balto those guys were wrong about you. When did you last eat?”

“Yesterday, I managed to steal a bit of food I am getting better at stealing.”

“Well you still look thin. I am taking you to a place where you can grab a meal. The butcher has the habit of leaving his window open. He will not miss a string or two of sausages” Steel replied with a sly grin.

    Slipping into the butchers through the window Steel and Balto stole two strings of sausages which Balto wolfed down in the boiler house.

“Thanks that was the best meal ever” Balto said.

“No problem if the butcher is a fool to leave a window open he deserves to lose the odd string” Steel replied as they left the boiler house.

       Walking through the town the three passed the hospital, seeing a very long line in the waiting room. Out of the door limped a man on crutches followed by another with his arm in a sling. Passing a team of sled dogs harsh comments were thrown their way to which Steel and Jenna snarled and shouted comments back. Reaching the edge of Nome Jenna and Steel led Balto to the playground which was full with several children playing.

  “What is this place?” Balto asked looking around.

“A place where we can play” Jenna replied.

   With Jenna in the lead the three jumped onto the roundabout sitting next to the children who welcomed them without question. The three laughed as they were spun around, their voices mingling with those of the children. Jumping off the three raced up the jungle gym, their weight shaking the snow off the bridges their delighted barking echoing through the wood. Jumping down the slide the three landed in a heap at the bottom in the snow their paws at odd angles.

 “That was cool” Balto said getting up. “Let’s go again.”

             A few days later Balto, Jenna and Rosie stood at the sidelines of the racetrack, cheering as Togo and Fire’s teams round the bend. On the other side of the track Sylvia and Dixie stood watching, their eyes fixed on the action. The race was neck and neck the tension in the crowd was so high it could have been cut with a knife. Suddenly Togo’s team put on a last bust of speed crossing the finish line to delighted cheers.

  “Balto come on I want you to meet Togo” Jenna barked wagging her tail.

“Meet him, are you serious?”

“Yes all Nome dogs know Togo he is one of us.”

     Walking over to the team they were greeted by Steel who introduced Balto to Togo. To his great surprise Togo treated Balto like any other dog, happy to talk to him as an equal. Walking over to Jenna, Fire and Fiona stopped in their tracks when they laid eyes on Balto in amazement at once seeing his parents within him. Walking over Jenna introduced both of them to Balto while Rosie and Robin patted Togo. Seeing Togo’s acceptance of Balto the other sled dogs knew they had to watch their mouths. At Togo and Steels insistence both Balto and Jenna were invited to a party to celebrate the race. That night Balto’s spirits soared as for the first time he was treated well by all dogs.

        It was mid February 1923 in Nome Balto, Steel and Jenna were playing when a group of sled dogs appeared, immediately yelling abuse at Balto when they saw him.

 “We can play with whoever we want” Steel yelled back, glaring at the dogs.

“You had no right to call Balto those names” Jenna said snarling.

 “Steel you are one of us” one of the dogs replied. “Wolves are dangerous, dog blood or not he is still one of them and cannot be trusted.”

 “DON’T YOU DARE SAY THAT! Balto is OUR FRIEND” Steel snarled. “Besides what harm has he ever done to you?”

    At this the sled dogs took a step back in surprise and looked at one another as Steel’s question had caught them off guard. Glaring at the three the sled dogs walked off, angrily muttering about stupid pups.

“Thanks. You didn’t have to do that Steel they are your team mates” Balto replied breathing a sigh of relief.

“That still doesn’t give them the right to treat you like dirt Balto, you haven’t done anything to them” Steel replied.

 “Steel has a point you have as much right to live here as they do.”

“You guys are the best, I’ve an idea let’s get out of town and explore up the Snake River” Balto replied.

 “Wow neither of us have been out of Nome by ourselves, it could be dangerous” Jenna replied.

“Not with me. I am part wolf I know how to survive out there, trust me.”

“Well it would be an adventure” Steel said grinning.

“And who better to go with Balto?”

“So are we going?”

“Yes.”

     Setting off the trio passed the Inuit settlement of Sandbanks greeting humans and dogs alike. The Snake River was locked with thick ice that would not melt until the summer, making it perfect for children to play on it. Seeing the ice the trio ran up a small hill and slid down onto the ice. Landing on the ice Jenna laughed as Jenna and Steel landed next to her. Leaving the ice Balto led the pair up the river watching as a family of otters played on the ice. The sleek little creatures looked up at the three with curiosity letting out squeaks of joy before running up to them. One bold male darted up to Balto and tapped him on the nose before darting off. With a grin Balto set off after the otter, at the same other otters darted up to Jenna and Steel. Within seconds the group were engaged in a game of tag through the snow while the otter’s mother watched from the river. The otters proved slippery customers darting this way and that across the snow.

     As the otters dived into the freezing water the trio heard a cry, looking up they saw a snowy owl flying above them. The bird swooped low, pouncing into the snow, emerging with a lemming in her talons. Watching the bird the three admired the bird’s soft feathers as they passed by. Suddenly Balto stopped in his tracks as a scent drifted into his nose.

“Balto what’s wrong?” Steel asked.

“Look above us” Balto replied pointing to the hill on the left.

        There standing above and looking down on them was a magnificent grey and white she wolf with pale yellow eyes. Jenna and Steel stared at her in shock, their bodies routed to the spot unable to move. Next to them Balto’s mind raced back a day a few months previously when he was still living wild. There was no doubt that the wolf staring at him was his half sister Valeria. As the pups watched Valeria raised her head, letting out a howl at echoed throughout the forest. Ending her song Valeria looked directly at each member of the trio, her eyes boring into them. The spell ended as soon as it had begun, with one last look at the trio Valeria walked away into the forest. As she left Steel, Jenna and Balto found they could move, all running away from the spot, with Balto running fastest.  Catching up with him near on the slope leading up the hill, Jenna and Steel saw that Balto was staring at a set of wolf tracks. Turning towards them Steel and Jenna saw the raw pain in his eyes.

“I wonder what happened to Balto before he came to Nome” Jenna whispered to Steel as they walked on.

 “He must have been through something terrible, the way he looked when he saw those wolf tracks” Steel replied, looking at his friend. “Has he told you anything of his life before coming to Nome?”

“Not much. All I know is that his mother was a wolf” Jenna replied.

    Slowly the afternoon passed by with no more strange incidents allowing the friends to have fun in the forest. By the time evening arrived all three made their way home with happy hearts and stories to tell. Walking out of the forest onto a small hill the three stared at the full moon above them, suddenly, the Northern Lights appeared in the sky.

 “The Northern Lights!” Jenna whispered.

“Amazing” Steel whispered wagging his tail.

 “Utterly” Balto replied.

“Today has been fun Balto.” Steel said placing his paw on the ground. “Tonight we will make a promise, to always be friends for ever not matter what.”

“Friends no matter what friends forever” Jenna replied putting her paw over Steel’s.

“Friends forever not matter what” Balto grinned putting his paw over Jenna’s.

       A Golden Summer

    The season’s moved on winter turned to spring with summer arriving in Nome with a burst of warm weather and an influx of wildlife. Jenna, Steel and Balto celebrated their birthdays with their friendship growing day by day. Though Jenna and Steel had other groups of friends and Balto faced growing persecution, they still had lots of fun together.

     Jenna was hanging out with Sylvia and Dixie outside the hair salon owned by Sylvia’s owner Ruby. Together the three played with a shiny purple ball which was occasionally thrown by a passing patron.

  “Look Eleanor and Evelyn are here” Dixie said as Eleanor, the older sister of Dixie’s owner Evelyn, walked up with her bridesmaids.  

     Seeing the dogs the girls giggled with delight each one bending down to pet them, receiving wagging tails and friendly barks in return. With giggles the party walked into the salon while the dogs watched.

“Eleanor is certainly excited about her wedding” Sylvia said watching the group.

“Oh yes the entire family are helping her with the preparation” Dixie replied. “Wait until you see the dress it is so beautiful.”

 “I can imagine. Come on school will be finishing soon we can meet our girls” Jenna said stretching.

 “Good idea” Dixie replied getting up.

    Walking over to the town school the trio joined the crowd of mothers and grandparents who were waiting to collect their children. As the school bell rang the children raced out of the school, with Jenna, Dixie and Sylvia’s girls running over to them. Kneeling down Rosie and Anna stroked their pets as Hilda and Ruby walked up to them. Setting off together the small group walked home. Splitting up when Ruby and Anna turned into their street Jenna, Rosie and Hilda walked to Hilda’s house as Violet was at work. Reaching the house the three entered to find to the newspaper on the mat.

  “Would you like a drink Rosie?” Hilda asked putting a bowl of water down for Jenna.

“Yes please Grandma” Rosie replied as she put her school bag on a chair.

      Putting the kettle on Hilda opened a packed of ginger biscuits placing them on a china plate. The kettle boiled with a whistle, Hilda made the tea and set it down on the table. Taking a biscuit from the plate Rosie held it out to Jenna.

“Jen paw.”

    At the command Jenna held out her paw to Rosie, receiving the biscuit in return while Hilda watched.

 “You have her well trained.”

“Jenna likes to do it.”

“She appears to like biscuits.”

“She likes to play with a ball more she will play for hours” Rosie replied taking a drink.

“So I have been hearing, breaking windows in the process.”

“Mommy was so mad with Daddy broke the kitchen window” Rosie giggled. “She shouted so loudly that all the neighbours could hear.”

    Sitting on the sofa Rosie drew in her sketch book, a picture of Balto, Jenna and Steel playing on the beach. Rosie was a talented artist for her age with the drawings having a life like quality normally found in the work of older children. Sitting on the sofa next to her Jenna watched as the picture emerged.

 “I hope Balto and Steel come to play tomorrow I cannot wait to show them Rosie’s picture” Jenna through.

   As evening arrived the town’s folk wrapped up their business for the day. Not long after the lawyer’s office shut Arthur arrived at the house.

“Evening Arthur” Hilda said hugging him. “Is your father not with you?”

“Er no he has stayed in town” Arthur replied nervously twiddling his watch.

“Where is he and why might he be there?” Hilda asked raising an eyebrow.

“Well he had a tricky case today. He’s been dealing with a dispute over a will……let’s just say it was heated. He was in a terrible temper afterwards, the air was a very dark shade of blue, and the world dragon springs to mind. Warner took him for a drink to calm him down.”

“Wonderful that is all I need” Hilda replied shaking her head and putting her hands on her hips. “What might I ask were you thinking?  You know what your father is like when he drinks while he is angry. I hope you told that young man not to keep your father out to late or to allow him to drink too much.”

“I did Mother and I warned him about you. Warner said he was going to treat Dad to a huge dinner and then a game of darts. Rosie are you ready to go home?”

“Yes Daddy, bye Grandma.”

“Goodbye Rosie.”

     Walking home Rosie chatted about her day, telling him about her history lesson, the art class and all the gossip. As they reached home they saw a shadow slip down a side ally the end of Balto’s tail vanishing under a cart. Climbing onto Rosie’s bed that night Jenna curled up soon falling fast asleep. In the small hours of the following morning there was a knock and door, up her bedroom both Rosie and Jenna heard the noise. Looking at each other tiptoed to the landing. There standing in the doorway was her Grandpa Wilfred half conscious supported by Warner both facing a very annoyed Arthur and Violet.

  “Sorry for this Art but I didn’t know where else to take him” Warner whispered. “Yours was the closest, your parents live at the other end of town, and God only knows what would have happened.”

 “Alright Warner how did this happen? I warned you, I am glad Rosie is still asleep” Arthur replied gazing at his father’s two black eyes and cut lip, the smell of alcohol wafting from his clothes.

“I only nipped to the gents for moment” Warner began as Rosie and Jenna looked on in wonder.

“Oh Grandpa has been naughty Jenna” Rosie yawned as Wilfred was hauled into the house. “Let’s go back to bed Daddy will not be happy if he finds us.”

   As Wilfred was carried inside and dumped unceremoniously into the sofa Rosie and Jenna tiptoed back to bed, both grinning at each other about what they had seen. Downstairs, Arthur was one the telephone to Hilda, receiving a thorough roasting in the process utterly unaware his supposed sleeping daughter had witnessed the embarrassing episode.      

        Jenna’s journey

   Jenna was sitting on her front porch waiting for Balto and Steel. It was now mid July and summer was in full swing. Looking up Jenna heard a bark and saw Balto and Steel walking down the street both laughing at a joke. Seeing her, the pair wagged their tails, sitting down next to her on the porch.

 “Jenna is everything alright? You look a little down” Balto asked looking at her with concern.

 “Yeh Jenna, why have you called us here?” Steel asked.

 “I have to leave town for a couple of months.”

“WHAT” Balto and Steel gasped looking at one another.

“Arthur has been called to Juneau for work, a case he is involved in is too large to be judged in Nome’s court.”

“That must be serious” Steel said.

“It is. From what I’ve overheard it is fraud.”

“That is serious.”

 “Why do you have to go with him?” Balto asked.

“Arthur will be away for a couple of months, he does not want to be separated from Violet and Rosie for so long. His older brother lives in Juneau and has invited Arthur, Rosie and Violet to stay with him. I have been invited as well, Rosie will be so upset if I was left behind, I have to go.”

“When do you leave?” asked Steel.

“In four days time on a ship called Star of the Arctic, we will be back before winter sets in, October at the latest.”

    The next four days passed in a blink of an eye the news that Jenna was visiting Juneau spread through the town like wildfire. Many of the younger dogs had never been so far and were concerned for Jenna if not a little jealous that she would be having an adventure. On the morning her departure Jenna sat in front of Rosie’s mirror while Rosie fastened a pink leather collar around her neck, shaking her fur with annoyance.

  “Sorry girl but you have to wear this” Rosie said attaching a pink lead to the collar. “It is heavy but you do look very pretty in it.”

   Leaving the house a short time later the family arrived at the port with their bags in the back of a carriage. Jumping out Rosie and Jenna ran over to the boat they would be boarding their eyes shining with the excitement. Hearing a bark behind them they turned around to see Balto walking towards them. Wagging his tail Balto licked Rosie’s cheek and nuzzled Jenna as Arthur walked up to them. Seeing the pup Arthur stopped, gazing at Balto with uncertainty at the sight of the wolf dog with his daughter. Seeing Arthur Balto let out a welcoming bark, his tail wagging slightly.

“Come on girls it is time to board, I was not expecting to see Balto here.”

“He has come to see us off. Bye bye Balto, see you soon” Rosie said patting his head.

     Taking her father’s hand Rosie walked up the gangplank onto the boat, running over to the side of the boat with Jenna. Being joined by Violet and Arthur moments later Rosie and Jenna grinned at each other. As the ship set sail a crowd gathered on the dock, waving at the passengers with relatives and friends calling out their goodbyes. Through the nose came a sudden howl, Rosie and Jenna’s eyes instantly locked on Balto who was running alongside the ship as it sailed out of the port. Seeing him many of the passengers smiled and called out to him, many cheering him on, amused at the sight of a dog racing a boat.

  “I am so excited this is fun” Rosie said as they left Nome behind.

“I am glad that you are enjoying” Arthur replied hugging his daughter. “Young Balto certainly caused a stir.”

“He was saying goodbye to us and he loves to run, it was fun for him.”

“I believe that he did look happy” Violet said as she appeared next to him. “Jenna appears happy.”

 “It is an adventure for her” Rosie replied hugging her friend.

“The start of a wonderful adventure” Violet replied as they walked to their cabin.

       Over the next few days Rosie and Jenna settled into the ship, meeting their fellow passengers both humans and dogs. They were a diverse group, some were business men, some trappers and miners, a few couples visiting and returning from visiting their families. A large portion was made up of mushers, using the summer to buy and sell dogs. The dogs themselves proved friendly, taking to Jenna and including her in their activities.

      A few days into their journey Jenna and Rosie stood on the deck looking out over the wide sea, watching the sleek seals who swam next to the boat. Watching the seals the pair laughed at their antics, applauding when the seals caught fish. Passing islands of ice the pair watched as mother seals feed their cute, fluffy white pups. Then suddenly out of sea tall black fins appeared.

 “Killer Whales!” Rosie shouted with delight, her long hair blowing in the wind.

“Orcas child” came a voice from behind.

     Turning around Rosie and Jenna saw an Inuit man with white hair in traditional clothing, his face weather beaten with a kind smile. Walking over to the side of the ship he smiled at the pair leaning on the railings.

 “Those whales are called Orcas by my people they are the guardians of the sea and help humans, it is a good omen that you have seen them. Watch child one approaches.”

   The man was right one orca had left the pod and was now only a meter from the boat, its eyes fixed on Rosie. Looking into the whales eyes Rosie was captivated a strange sense of familiarity entering her heart.

 Welcome Rosie so young unaware red daughter unique

  With a flick of its tail the orca dived beneath the sea, rejoining its pod who hunted away from the boat.

“Who spoke did you hear that?” Rosie asked turning to the man.

“Heard child? If you heard whispers from the ocean they were for you alone to hear not I, not even your loyal four legged friend dog here.”

  “Could you please tell me more about orcas?”

“Certainly if you like I can tell many things about the creatures who live on the sea and ice.”

“I would like that, thank you.” 

   Listening to the man Rosie turned back to the face the beautiful creatures. Standing next to Rosie, Jenna wondered what had just happened, had Rosie been daydreaming or had she really heard something? Her attention was diverted as the orcas surfaced, some leaping out of the water with joy casting spray onto those on deck. As the girls watched a glimmer of silver caught their eye near an iceberg. On top of the iceberg with its fur shimmering in the sunlight was a huge polar bear.

 “Oh you are pretty” whispered Rosie gazing with utter fascination at the bear. 

“Balto was right they are beautiful and so big.”Jenna thought staring at the magnificent creature.

     “Rosie.”

    Turning away from the bear Rosie saw Violet walking up to her.

“So you have been here all along, I d hope my daughter has not troubled you sir.”

“Not in the slightest she and her friend here have watched the wildlife, she and I have spoken of them, I have told her what I know. It has been a pleasure to speak to her.”

“Thank you my daughter does love animals, come on Rosie time for lunch.”

“Thank you for telling me all about the animals’ sir.”

“It has been my pleasure” the man replied watching as the trio walked to the dining room.

          The rest of the trip progressed in much the same way every day Rosie and Jenna would watch the wildlife from the deck. She was frequently joined by other passengers and the Inuit man she had met, as it turned out he was working with scientists from The Smithsonian Institute. On the last night of the voyage the captain organised a party for the crew and passengers to celebrate a successful crossing. Lasting well into the night it was a roaring success with people swapping addresses so they could keep in touch with each other as many new friendships had been formed. 

     On the morning of July the 25^th Jenna, Rosie, Violet and Arthur stood on the deck as ship docked into Juneau’s port. It was nothing like Rosie or Jenna had seen before a sprawling city full of hustle and bustle twice the size of Nome. On the dock stood a crowd of people the dock workers busy those waiting the welcome friends and family hurrying to spot their loved ones. Disembarking a short time later Arthur, Violet, Jenna and Rosie were met by a man a little older than Arthur with hair more black than brown.

 “Arty little brother great to see you at last” the man said hugging Arthur.

“Same Alf nice car” Arthur said looking at his brother’s car.

“Isn’t she just? Violet you grow more beautiful every time I see you. Rosie is that you? You have grown so much” Alf replied kissing Violet’s cheek an scooping Rosie into his arms.

“Hi Uncle Alf this is Jenna.”

“Alfred you are so kind to allow us to stay with you.”

“My please we have rooms and rooms with only four of us in the house. Besides what kind of brother would I be if I did not allow you to come and stay?”

    Climbing into the car the family set off through the roads of Juneau, Rosie and Jenna looking out of the window. Arriving at Alfred’s house the pair gasped at its size and the amount of garden it had. Waiting on the front steps were a blonde haired woman, a blonde haired girl of six, a fourteen year old boy and a female Bichon Frise.

“Art, Violet, Rosie it is wonderful to see you, how was the trip?” asked the women walking down the steps.

“Wonderful Judith, the boat was gorgeous” Violet replied.

“Come on inside. William help you Papa with the bags.”

  At this the boy walked down from the steps.

“Hi Uncle Art it’s great to see you” William said as he picked up the bags.

“Now then Will you’ve grown again” Art replied looking at his nephew.

“He has been on a growth spurt since his birthday, he barely has clothes a month before he outgrows them” Judith replied shaking her head.

    On the steps Jenna looked at Bichon Frise, a little unsure of the older dog.

“Welcome to Juneau Jenna I am Princess. I am looking forward to becoming acquainted with you.”  

“It is a pleasure to meet you Princess.”

   Walking inside the humans and dogs made their way to the sitting room while the maid and butler took the bags upstairs. In the sitting room the family talked over coffee and biscuits brought in by a second maid. Arthur and Alfred discussed directions to the courthouse, Rosie and the little girl Matilda played with dolls while Jenna and Princess watched.

 “You must be tired from your journey. Dinner will not be for another hour, would you care to freshen up?”

 “That would be lovely Judith” Violet replied.

     As the humans left the room Jenna and Princess made their way to the front porch where they sat down both looking at the garden.

“Do you have any plans as to what activities you wish to partake in while you are here Jenna?” Princess asked.

“Not really. I hadn’t really through much about it. Are you allowed to wonder free?”

“Certainly so long as we wear a collar and license, my neighbourhood is such a wonderful place to live. You will love living here.”

        Jenna in Juneau

       A couple of days later the two families sat together at the breakfast table, toast, cereal, coffee and orange juice sat on the table. Arthur and Alfred both had their heads in different sections of the morning paper, Violet and Judith chatted over their coffee, William ate his toast while listening to the radio and Matilda and Rosie both chatted over their cereal. On the floor Jenna and Princess ate their own breakfast while listening to the chatter around the table. As the humans set about their day Princess and Jenna left the house, walking out of the front gate with Arthur and Alfred.

 “Where are we going Princess?” Jenna asked as they walked through the neighbourhood.

“On Monday all the lady dogs gather as the mayor’s house. The canine mayor’s wife is such a wonderful dog, she is a poodle called Victoria.”

“I would hate to intrude.”

“Nonsense as my guest it is my duty to introduce you to society and there is better place to do that then Victoria’s.”

   Arriving at the mayor’s house Jenna stopped in her tracks amazed at the size of the house as she had never seen a mansion before. Walking through the wrought iron gates into the front garden Jenna looked around her. Sat on the porch was a circle of female dogs off different breeds and ages, all waving their tails on seeing the pair.

 “Victoria, Ladies I have the pleasure of introducing you to Miss Jenna. She is owned by Alfred’s niece Rosanna. Jenna will be my guest while Rosanna’s father is working in the city” Princess said sitting down.

  “Welcome Jenna it is my pleasure to welcome you to our little circle I am sure you will find our friendship and activities enjoyable” Victoria replied smiling kindly.

 “Oh er thank you Mrs Victoria” Jenna replied sitting down.

 “She is a little quiet” whispered one of the dogs to Princess.

“Now Daphne please be gentle with her, Jenna is just over a year old. This is the first time she has been in a city, it is only natural she will be a touch nervous.”

    Joining the group Jenna was introduced the dogs a couple of which were the same ages as she, one was a Dalmatian called Jewel and an Akita called Venus. The lady dogs spend the morning discussing the up and coming carnival and who would be on the floats.

     At midday the gathering broke up with everyone heading to the park, taking with them a couple of rubber rings. At the centre of the park as a large lake with a bridge lover one part of it, lots of plants, children’s play area, a band stand and a running track. While the older dogs chased the rings Jenna, Venus and Jewel raced each other, stopping when they reached the stone bridge.

“That was much fun you are fast runner Jenna” Venus said gasping for breath.

“Well Jenna is a husky Venus” Jewel replied collapsing onto the bridge.

“I think I am going to enjoy living here” Jenna said wagging her tail happily.

      A few days later Judith, Matilda, Rosie, Violet, Jenna and Princess walked through the park, the girls and dogs raced around the playground, sliding down the slide, swinging on the swings and running through the jungle gym. Also in the playground were a couple of Matilda’s friends, all welcoming Rosie into their group while their mother chatted to Judith and Violet. As they played that afternoon an ice cream seller arrived pushing his cart and setting up just outside the play area.

  “Tillie Rosie” Judith called, causing both girls to turn around. “As you girls have been such angels today would you enjoy an ice cream?”

“Yes please Momma that would be nice” Tillie replied from the top of the slide.

“Yes please Auntie Judie” Rosie replied as she slide down the slide.

“Excellent. Come over and choose your flavours, would you care for one Vi?”

“I would Judi, I can pay for.”

“Nonsense this is my treat.” 

       Walking over to the ice cream cart the humans chose their flavours, to their surprise a bowl was placed on the ground in front of Jenna and Princess. With wide smiles the pair ate the delicious vanilla and strawberry ice cream within. After the ice creams had been eaten the party walked over to the lake, Rosie and Tillie throwing stale bread to the ducks. The rest of the afternoon was passed in joy as Rosie and Tillie threw rings for Jenna and Princess, the dogs parking with delighted as they chased after the rings. With her long legs Jenna outstripped Princess in the races, always getting her rings before Princess got hers. When both rings were thrown accidently into the lake Princess stopped and barked, unwilling to get wet for the sake of a toy. Jenna on the other paw took one look at the water and jumped in swimming easily and fetching both rings. Climbing out of the water the red husky shook her coat before placing a ring first at Rosie’s and then Tillie’s feet.

  “You are all wet Jenna you will need a bath” Tillie giggled picking up the ring.

“She certainly will, I was a little surprised she went into the lake, Princess would not dream of such a thing.”

“Well Jenna has been swimming since she was a pup” Violet replied as they left the park.

      Laid on Rosie’s bed that night Jenna though about the past few days, her tail wagging at the thought of the adventures she would have.

        Three weeks had passed since Jenna had arrived in Juneau. Jenna lay on the porch with her head on her paws. Coming out of the back door Princess saw her laid there.

“Jenna is something the matter?”

“Do you ever leave the neighbourhood? Do you go into the centre of town?”

“On occasion I do with Judith and Tillie.”

“Do you ever go in with your friends?”

“Of course not imagine the scandal that would cause!”

“How can you stand being so restricted?”

“Jenna do not even consider it, that would be against society” Princess replied before walking back inside.

       Laying there Jenna though about the stories she had heard about the centre of town from Arthur and Alfred and what she had seen from the car window. A sense of restriction and longing to break free surged through Jenna. In a flash she was up on her paws, in an easy bound she cleared the gate, landing gracefully on the other side. Walking down the street Jenna passed Venus’s house, finding Venus herself laid in the garden.

 “Hello Jenna where are you going?”

“Into the centre of town” Jenna replied.

“You are so brave to break society’s rules” Venus replied. “Would you like some company?”

“You want to come!”

“I’ve always wanted to go into town by myself but no other girl has ever been brave enough to come with me.”

“Then what are we waiting for?” Jena cried as Venus jumped over her wall.

         With large grins on their faces the pair ran through the neighbourhood, their barks echoing through the streets. Following the street signs the pair soon arrived in the centre of town, both stopping on a corner and gazing about them with curiosity. Crossing the street Venus led Jenna to the smart area, where all the expensive shops were and an area that Venus knew well. Walking down the paved streets Jenna and Venus mingled with the townsfolk, gazing through the windows. Clothes shopped displayed the latest fashions, through the window of a jewellers Jenna gazed at trays of diamond rings, exquisite white gold and sapphire necklaces, gold earrings inlaid with rubies and delicate silver pieces. Jenna was amazed as the small jewellers in Nome did not stock pieces as valuable.

  “Wow these are beautiful Venus” Jenna whispered placing her paws on the windowsill.

“Studding my owner’s mother buys all her jewels from the shop, it is the best shop in town, the proprietor can acquire any piece from anywhere in the United States.”

    Continuing along the street the pair stopped as they saw Daphne walking along the street with her owner. Taking one look at each other the pair crossed the road and turned the nearest corner, stopping in the doorway of an antiques shop.

“That was so lucky, oh if we had been seen there would have been a stern lecture and she would have told my mother” Venus said as they stood in the doorway.

“That would have been such a nightmare.”

“Jenna it would have been a scandal! You have not been here long enough to understand, our reputations would have been tarnished. Oh maybe this was not such a good idea after all!”

“Venus relax we will be fine, besides I go into Nome all the time by myself. Lets just enjoy this, do you have a theatre?”

“We have three. Jenna you are a genius! We can go to the cinema to see a film, come on it will be starting soon” Venus replied with joy.

   Reaching the cinema the pair slipped in through the front door, up a flight of stairs and into a theatre, spotting a few other dogs that had also slipped in. Sitting in theatre Jenna and Venus enjoyed the film, laughing at the comedy scenes of which there were many. Walking out of the theatre once the film had finished the pair walked out with the rest of the patrons. In the crush of people Jenna suddenly slipped while walking down the stairs, crashing into a young male Alsatian.

 “I am so sorry I was pushed” Jenna stammered gazing at him.

“No problem it happens. You’re not from around here are you?” the Alsatian replied shaking himself.

“No. How can you tell?”

“Accent. The names Onyx.”

“I am called Jenna. I am because my owner’s father is working in the court.”

“Cool. That your friend?”

      Turning around Jenna saw Venus walking towards her with a male red and cream husky.

“EMBER!!!” Jenna yelled with shock.

“JENNA.”

“You know her Ember?” Onyx asked turning to his friend.

“Know her? Onyx she’s my sister, you know, the one who got adopted by that little girl.”

“Oh that Jenna” Onyx replied.

“Onyx this is amazing” Jenna replied grinning at her brother.

“No kidding Jen. What on earth are you doing here?”

“Long story” Jenna replied.

    Walking out of the cinema Ember and Onyx took the girls to the jewellers they had passed earlier. Given the stores value the owner had bought a dog to guard the shop at night, Onyx was that dog. Walking into the shop Onyx gave the girls a guided tour, meeting the owner as they walked into the main shop. As it was mid afternoon the shop was busy so the four stood and watched the flow. A young man perused a tray of diamond engagement rings, a pair of women in their thirties looked over earrings, a teenage girl and her mother discussed a sapphire necklace and a husband and wife compared emerald necklaces. Walking over to a display case Jenna gazed at a stunning white gold necklace inlayed with opal.

 “This is beautiful” Jenna whispered gazing at it.

“And it will set you back half a million” Onyx replied.

“That much for once piece!”

“Oh yeh, you see that layered necklace on the top shelf, made from white gold, diamonds, amethysts and opals?” Onyx asked pointing to a stunning piece in a case behind the counter. “That will set you back one point five million.”

“I never knew jewellery could cost so much.”

“Say Onyx how about we give these girls a tour of the town?” Ember suggested. “Prevent them land themselves in trouble.”

“Good thinking, come on.”

     Leaving the shop the four headed away from the posh area into the places where the average residents congregated. Soon they arrived at the bustling market, their senses overloaded with different sights, smells and sounds. The market was a hive of activity, stall holders called out their prices, carts full of goods travelled back and forth, dogs barked out greetings and townsfolk haggled for the best deal. Walking between stalls Jenna and Venus looked around them, Venus finding the different accents hard to understand and slightly unsure of herself. Jenna found herself thinking of how different Nome was, excited to be at a market in a city and curios about what else she would see.

 “This is a wonderful place I have not been here before” Venus commented as they walked.

“How come? You’ve lived here your entire life!” Ember replied in surprise.

“Well the grocer delivers the fruit and vegetables and there are plenty of stores selling food further in town” Venus replied as they passed a stall selling leather goods.

 “She does have a point Ember in her neighbourhood there are plenty of fancy food shops” Onyx said. “Her kind have no reason to mix with we riff raff.”

“You are no riff raff Onyx” Jenna replied.

“To dogs of Venus’s class he is, you don’t really get in Jenna, in Nome it’s different but not here” Ember replied shaking his head.

 “Speaking of Nome, won’t Rosie be getting worried about you?” asked Onyx as they left the market. “It was gone four when we left the shop, might be time you girls went home, this part of town isn’t safe for girls like you at night.”

“But it is not even evening time yet” Jenna replied as they passed the town hall. “In Nome I stay out much later.”

“Onyx is right Jen this isn’t Nome, you could both wind up in trouble pretty fast. Come on I’ll take you both home.”

“Good thinking Ember I have to get back to the shop” Onyx replied. “It’s been great to meet both of you.”

 “Bye Onyx.”

“See you soon Onyx.”

“Right now then girls” Ember said turning to Jenna and Venus “It is time I took you home, come on lead the way.”

    Walking back through town the trio passed shops that were shutting as the town wound down for the evening. Passing through town the trio chatted as they walked, engaging in a spontaneous race through the streets, their barks full of joy. Arriving in Venus’s neighbourhood they slowed, Ember gazing around him as he had not been to that part of town before. After leaving Venus at her house, Jenna and Ember made their way to Jenna’s home, arriving to find a very angry Princess waiting for her on the front porch next to Rosie.

“Hi Jenna I wondered where you had been all day” Rosie said hugging Jenna. “Ember I hoped I would see you.”

   Wagging his tail Ember licked Rosie’s cheek as she placed one arm around him, glad to see his sister’s owner again. With a quick bark and lick on Jenna’s cheek Ember was off, jumping over the gate in a swift bound.

 “You must have had an adventure today Jenna” Rosie replied as she walked back inside.

“Jenna what on earth were you thinking going off into town alone? If anyone had seen you think of the scandal it would have caused!”

“All I wanted to do was to see the city, where is the harm in that?”

“Jenna you do not understand the social implications.”

“You just want me to be caged. You cannot expect me to spend all my time here.”

“I expect you to behave like a lady.”

“I come from a town in the wilderness, I am used to freedom and I don’t need protecting. Besides I had to find my brother Ember, you don’t understand me Princess” Jenna replied walking into the house.

         The weeks passed slowly, when she was not with Rosie, Jenna spent a lot of time with Ember. Her friendship with Onyx grew and Jenna became confused over her feelings for the handsome Alsatian. Venus was the fourth member of the quartet, all spent time having fun around Juneau. Out with Rosie one day Jenna watched as a letter was sent to Steel’s owner Richard, glad that Steel and Balto would hear of her adventures.

     On day in mid August Jenna was playing in the park when to her surprise, Onyx turned up holding a flower in his mouth.

 “Jenna hi this is for you” he said dropping the flower at her feet.

“Onyx thank you this is beautiful” Jenna replied blushing slightly.

“I was wondering the Grand Theatre is premiering its new play on Friday. Going to be a huge occasion half the town will be there, I’m going, would you like to go with me?”

“Yes. I mean I would be glad to go with you.”

“Great that’s great, I’ll pick you up at seven?”

“Sure see you then.”

   Blushing Onyx walked off through the park as Jenna smiled to herself as she walked over to the pond. Looking into the pond Jenna watched the ducks swim by.

“Wow I cannot believe Onyx just as me out, I never expected that, he must really like me. I never thought he would like me in that way I am only his friend’s sister.” 

    On Friday night Jenna stood on the front porch wearing her pink collar, her fur washed and brushed. Then her eyes fell on Onyx who was walking up the path wearing a silver collar with an onyx stone hanging from it.

“Hi Jenna wow you look beautiful.”

“Thank you Onyx is that a piece of onyx hanging from your collar?

“Yes it is, it wasn’t good enough to go into a piece so my owner put it on a collar, do you like it?”

“Yes it suits you.”

“Perhaps we could find a stone that suits you” Onyx suggested as they left the garden.

     As they walked to the streets they received a few stares as they walked through the neighbourhood, many of the dogs surprised to see a downtown dog with an uptown girl. Arriving at the theatre they were met by a crowd of people a mixture of guests and media, as well as a large crowd of dogs. On spotting the pair one of the theatre dogs came over and guided them into the theatre through the performer’s entrance. Walking in Jenna gazed in awe at its size and opulence of the place. The curtain came down, the orchestra began to play and William Shakespeare’s Macbeth began. The performance brought cheers from the audience, many shrieking with fear when a ghost appeared through the trap door.

       The play ended with tremendous applause, the press running back to their offices, the cast heading to a restaurant for a party and the audience spilling out into the streets. Walking home Jenna and Onyx chatted about the play arriving at Jenna’s house sooner than expected.

 “I had fun tonight Onyx thank you for taking me out.”

   “It was my pleasure, would you like to go with me another night?”

“I would.”

    On impulse Onyx kissed Jenna on the cheek both blushing red as Jenna walked inside the house. Lying down on Rosie’s bed that night Jenna thought about her date with Onyx as huge smile on her face as she fell to sleep.

    Over the next couple of weeks Jenna and Onyx grew closer, going on dates and spending a lot of their time together. While this was happening, the trial that Arthur was persecuting was drawing to a close with the humans growing increasingly concerned about the coming of winter. The first of September arrived, Tillie, Rosie and William went back to school and talk turned to Tillie’s birthday on the 14^th of the month. In secret discussions the parents planned her party, deciding that Tillie’s friends could bring their dogs with them. While Tillie was at school Judith shopped for Tillie’s present with Jenna joining her on a couple of occasions. In amongst the human planning Princess instructed Jenna on how to be the perfect hostess, something which the young husky found confusing. Finally the big day arrived, all of Tillie’s friends arrived at the house. The party was a success a good time was had by all dogs and humans alike.

    A couple of days after Tillie’s party Jenna sat with Ember on a roof overlooking the port, beneath them the people of Juneau went about their daily lives. Looking at his sister Ember could tell that something was wrong.

  “You feeling alright Jen? You’ve been a bit distant with me the past couple of days.”

“My time here is coming to an end Ember. Next week the jury will deliver their verdict. Everyone is starting to worry about getting back to Nome before the sea freezes permanently.”

“That is understandable the last thing you want is to be trapped here for winter.”

“I like being here with you but….”

“You miss Nome, your friends, your own home, the freedom you have there.”

“I’m not like the other dogs here in the neighbourhood I’m living in, I don’t fit in here I never did.”

“It’s not hard to see why you feel like that. Dogs in your neighbourhood are so stuck up and spoilt, even more than some dogs in Nome. Me I’m a sled dog, I don’t mix with that crowd, yet they see me as rough and beneath them.”

“I wish you hadn’t moved here Ember. At least I can tell Mom and Dad that I have seen you.”

“I do miss them” Ember replied looking out across the port. “At the same time I’m glad I live here, I am really happy here Jenna. So this thing with Onyx….”

“I like him a lot but I know it cannot last, I have to go back to Nome.”

“I knew this would happen Jen, I warned you not to fall for him for this reason, I knew would end up getting hurt.”

“You were right all along but my heart refused to listen, Ember what am I going to do?” Jenna replied as tears fell from her eyes.

 “We will work this out Jenna” Ember replied licking her cheek and curling up next to her.

    Changing of the Tide

    It was mid October, on the dock Jenna stood waiting to board a ship that would take her back to Nome. In amongst the crowds she spotted two dogs running towards her, one limping slightly, seconds later Ember and Onyx arrived in front of her.

“What are you both doing here?”

“Come on Jen you didn’t think I’d let you leave without saying goodbye did you?” Ember asked with a grin.

 “I...I…. I had…. I had to see you one last time” Onyx stammered. “I’ve had a lot of fun while you have been here Jenna.”

“So have I Onyx you have shown me so much. You know how I feel about you but….”

“Stay Jenna please, you don’t have to go, you could stay and live with me and be happy.”

“Stay with here with you” Jenna whispered looking behind her at Rosie. “I…I can’t Rosie would be heartbroken. I don’t belong here.”

“Fine, so be it. I’ll never forget you Jenna” Onyx replied racing off to hide his pain.

     Turning to face her brother, Jenna’s eyes filled with tears as her heart split in two.

“I am going to miss you Ember being with you was like being a pup again.”

“I’ll miss you two Jen, part of me wishes I could come back with you, to see our parents and Nome. If you asked me….if you want me to I’ll get on the boat with you” Ember replied as Jenna caught sight of a cut on his shoulder.

“Ember how did you get that cut?

“It doesn’t matter Jen” Ember replied turning away as Rosie walked up to them.

“Hi Ember I am glad you have come to say goodbye” Rosie said hugging him as the whistle blew.

 “Jen that’s the call ask me to come and I will.”

“Tell me why, please Ember…I cannot ask that of you, you have your life here.”

“Jenna come on girl we have to go” Rosie said clipping a lead onto her collar.

“My life here is where I belong, I said that so that to make you happy. Go with Rosie, tell our parents to look out for my name in the papers” Ember replied with a grin.

     Walking onto the boat Jenna stood with Rosie, Violet and Arthur as the ship set sail, Jenna and Rosie waving to Ember as they leave. As the ship sailed to Nome it became obvious that winter was on its way, as the ship passes icebergs and at times had to break through sea ice. As on the way to Juneau Rosie and Jenna spent most of their time watching the animals that lived on the ice, herds of walrus with huge tusks laid on ice, sleek seals swam alongside the boat and polar bears crossed the ice. On deck one day Arthur took a picture of Rosie and Jenna with a polar bear in the background, along with a picture of a polar bear swimming leisurely between ice flows, the bear looking at them as the ship passed him by. The mood on the ship was relaxed as there would still be a few more ships to and from Nome before the ice froze.

   Arriving back in Nome in the middle of October Arthur, Violet, Jenna and Rosie were met by Wilfred and Hilda. Loading the luggage into a sled Wilfred and Hilda drove them back to their house. Arriving at the house Hilda made them all a cup of coffee washed down with some of Hilda’s famous chocolate brownies. Climbing into their own beds that night Arthur, Rosie and Violet fell into exhausted slumber all glad to be home.

    A couple of days later Jenna walked into the centre of Nome keen to catch up with her friends. Reaching the main street Jenna grinned as she saw Balto surrounded by Steel, Nikki, Kaltag and Star. To her utter shock Steel was bullying Balto, throwing hash comments his way and generally being unpleasant. Seeing Jenna Steel turned to face her, a look of guilt on his face.

“Hi Jenna welcome back” Steel said as she walked over.

“Hi Jenna great to see you” Balto said softly.

“I am glad to be back. So tell me what is going on here? Why are you bulling Balto?”

“Reasons, come on guys let leave these two” Steel said heading off with Star, Kaltag and Nikki.

“Balto?”
“Not here, tonight at your house” Balto replied before heading off.

       That evening Jenna sat on her porch with Balto and Steel, both males looking rather guilty.

“Jenna about this morning that wasn’t real. It was a show in front of my team mates, they all hate Balto and to fit in with them I have to act the same.”

“Why now? They have always been like that and you have always been nice to Balto.”

“I need to advance within the team, all the pressure they put on me is too much to resist anymore. While you were away a few of them hit me I don’t want to go through that again. It’s all an act Jenna, I don’t mean what I say but I’m in a corner I can’t break out off.”

“Jenna I’m ok with this. Before Steel started saying these things he came and explained it to me. I don’t like Steel saying these things but I understand and am willing to take it.” 

“I don’t like this Balto, I feel terrible saying all those things to you, please believe me but I have fit in with my teammates” Steel said turning to face Jenna.

“I don’t like this Steel and I think you’re a fool to put up with it but it appears I have no choice but to accept it” Jenna replied looking between Balto and Steel.

      Over the next month Steel’s treatment of Balto became even worse and though he did not hurt Balto physically he hurt him emotionally. For Jenna it was hard to watch and she often left the area when Steel was bulling Balto. Yet after every occasion of Balto, not matter how late, Steel would go to Balto and apologise for his actions. So the friendship between the trio continued in secret, meeting outside town and at night. One cold day the trio played together on the ice, racing each other and jumping between icebergs. Balto proved the most sure footed, able to jump the farthest. In the distance they saw Boris, Muk and Luck the two bears having come to Nome that summer. Theirs was a tragic tale, their mother had been shot by a hunter and they had been found by Balto and Boris. Steel and Jenna found this strange at first as bears and dogs would not normally mix.

    As winter passed the attitudes of the humans towards Balto changed as they could see him growing and were afraid of the wolf in him.

    One night Rosie, Balto and Jenna were playing together in Rosie’s garden. Rosie was throwing a ball for Balto and Jenna both taking turns to fetch it. As Balto fetched the ball the back door opened and Arthur walked a hard look on his face, a walking cane in his hand.

“GET OUT OF HERE WOLF” Arthur shouted brandishing his cane. “Rosie stay away from him.”

“But Daddy Batlo is my friend” Rosie replied as Balto disappeared over the fence. “Why did you say that to him?”

“He’s part wolf Rosie he could hurt you, you must never play with him again.”

“Why? He is my friend and he is Jenna’s friend.”

“Jenna is a dog sweetheart he is a wolf. I am sorry Rosie but you have to stay away from him.”

 “I hate you, that is not fair, what is the difference between him and Jenna?” Rosie cried as she ran inside, tears streaming down her face.

    Watching Rosie run inside Jenna ran after her finding her curled up on her bed with tears in her eyes. Wining softly Jenna jumped into the bed, licking her cheek as Rosie hugged her tightly.

“Why did Daddy have to be so mean to Balto? Balto just wanted to play with us he would not hurt me. Just because he had wolf blood does not make him bad, the white wolf I met was nice to me. What is so bad about a wolf? All husky’s look a little like wolves anyway why do people hate wolves?” Rosie whispered burying her face in Jenna’s fur.

      With the arrival of the racing season Nome’s resident dogs paid less attention to Balto as they had more important things on their minds. Nome was the start and or finish for several races, bringing with it the influx of teams, one of which was led by Steel’s father Iron. In markings Steel and Iron were almost identical as they were pure breeds. Iron was proud, arrogant, handsome and a noted wolf hater. There rumours that Iron had had a brief relationship with a wolf two years previously. This however had never been proven and Iron hotly refuted it.

    A few weeks into the racing season Jenna, Violet and Rosie were shopping in town, passing the Cinnamon Whirl Bakery they saw Balto chatting to the baker’s cat. As Rosie and Violet went into the fabric shop Jenna saw Iron and his team walking up the street. As Iron laid eyes on Balto Jenna felt a rush of fear run up her spine. Two shops along Steel stood with his owner Richard who was retying his boot laces. On spotting Balto Iron grinned evilly, Iron and his team mates forming a menacing circle around the young wolf dog. As they circled Balto, Steel walked up to Jenna, both exchanging worried looks.

    In a flash Iron attacked sending Balto to the floor, a fight ensuing. It quickly become clear that try as he might, Balto was no match for Iron. As Balto lay sprawled in the snow Steel jumped between his friend and his father. Snarling Steel fought his father in a desperate attempt to defend his friend. On the sidelines Rosie, Jenna and Richard screamed for help, all fearing the worst. With a slash at Steel’s shoulder Iron sent his son into the snow, stopping his attack he stood over both them.

 “Well well wolf dog now you know your proper place, beneath we pure bred dogs. A wolf is filth you are nothing. You would not even be alive was it not for your mother’s tricks. Yes I see Chocolate Paw in you and that filthy she wolf who stole his heart” Iron whispered glaring at Balto.

 “Leave him alone” Steel gasped glaring at his father. “What has he ever done to you?”

“BE QUIET YOU!”

“Why did you attack me?” Steel replied.

“You deserve it for defending that filthy little half breed wolf.”

“My friend.”

“No. I am very disappointed that you defended him Steel. As my son it is a disgrace what you what did I expected far better from you.”

     Turning away from his father Steel looked at the floor with pain in his eyes.

“You could be made lead dog this season, one of the youngest lead dogs ever. I would be so proud of that but your teammates will not follow you if you run with a wolf.”

“That should not matter. My friendship with Balto has nothing to do with being lead dog.”

“I cannot be proud of you if you run with a wolf. Stay friends with him and I will disown you, not only that, but I will make sure that you never lead a team.”

    Steel stared at his father in utter shock as Iron and his teammates walked away, never in his life had Steel imagined his father would be so cruel. Seeing the fight was over Jenna, Rosie and Richard ran over to the pair.

“Oh my God are you both alright? Jenna asked licking Steel and then Balto’s cheek.

“I’ll live, thanks for trying to help me Steel, he was your father” Balto replied softly

“Don’t worry about it” Steel replied.

“Oh cripes my Dad is going to do his nut!” Richard said surveying the damage to Steel and Balto. “We have to get both of them to a vet.”

“Poor Steel he tried to help Balto, Iron was so mean” Rosie replied as the baker Mr Norfolk arrived on the scene.

“He certainly was. Dam that dog! Richard run and get the vet, then go and fetch your father. I will take Balto and Steel inside, Balto can live with me while he heals up.”

   An hour later Steel was at home, as predicted Richard’s father had hit the roof and had sworn blue murder at Iron. Lying in Mr Norfolk’s sitting room Balto gazed at Jenna and Rosie who sat next to him.

“Balto is lucky to have both you as friends” Mr Norfolk said shaking his head.

“It is nice of to let him stay” Rosie replied.

“I am just glad I could help, Balto is a good dog, and he’s never harmed me. No people are wrong about him, heck he even fetched my post and paper those weeks I were on crutches.”

    Later that night after Rosie had gone home Jenna left the bakers to find Iron and five members of his team waiting. Seeing Jenna they turned around, all standing a little straighter.

“So I see that filthy little wolf will recover………I should have hurt him harder. So Red how is the piece of filth?”

“Alright no thanks to you” Jenna snapped in reply.

“Now now Red change the tone, that wolf had it coming trying to fit by fraternising with you and Steel.”

“Balto did nothing to deserve that attack. Stop calling him a filthy wolf.”

“I will him whatever I choose, so he has deceived you into believing he is respectable.”

“No he has not I make my own choices. Balto is my friend and NOTHING you say will change that.”

“Well well Red you have some spirit pity it is naïve spirit” Iron replied walking over to her.

“Do not call me Red. I know the difference between what is right and what is wrong. You should not have attacked Balto for being part wolf.”

“You little fool, go home princess you are too young for all of this, your owner will be worried about you. I did what I had to too put that filthy wolf in his place. If that means attacking him then so be it” Iron said proudly.

     Staring at the proud and cruel look on Iron’s face Jenna felt herself fill with ice cold anger, in a flash of her paw struck Iron across the face leaving gashes with her nails, then she bit his left ear hard, causing him to howl in pain. Iron’s teammates looked at Jenna in utter shock as Iron looked up, blood pouring from his face and ear.

 “YOU DISGUST ME COWARD.” Jenna hissed walking up to Iron. “Not only do you hurt Balto but your own son was well. Say whatever you like about Balto it will not change anything, Balto is mine and Steels friend. One day you will see who Balto really is.”

     Turning her back on Iron Jenna walked proudly away into the night glad that she had wiped the smile off Iron’s face and that he received his just rewards for hurting Balto.

     Promise Broken        

    As the weeks passed Balto and Steel recovered from their injuries though Iron’s hard words continued to plague his son. New of Jenna’s attack on Iron spread through the town like wildfire, soon reaching the ear’s of her parents, both of whom were surprised yet very proud of her. While Iron was in town Jenna saw little of Steel and when she did he was usual in the company of Iron. Combined with this was Rosie badly spraining her ankle meaning Jenna spent much of her time indoors with her. Chatting to Dixie one afternoon, Jenna spoke of her disappointment in not having had chance to have a long chat with Steel since the fight.

“I’m not sure if you want to talk to him Jenna I mean….There is a rumour going around town that Steel hurt a dog for insulting him.”

“Oh come on Dixie that is just gossip Steel would never do that” Jenna replied laughing.

“You have not seen him recently Jenna he has changed a bit, I mean he is more like Iron than when you last saw him” Dixie replied.

“The gossip chain has gone into overdrive Steel would never become like Iron” Jenna replied as Rosie left the hospital.

       A month after Iron’s attack on Balto, in early February 1924, Iron and his team left Nome to compete elsewhere. A few days after his father left it was announced that Steel had become the lead dog on his team. Steel had done it, he was the second youngest lead dog ever, the youngest being the famous Cathán Chocolate Paw of Fairbanks. Walking into town a couple of days later Jenna stopped in her tracks, outside the hospital was Balto, surrounded by Steel, Nikki, Kaltag, Star and two other dogs from their team. All seven were circling Balto, dark looks on their faces all bearing their teeth. As she watched Jenna felt someone brush up against her, turning around she saw Mel standing next to her, a very worried look on his face.

 “So wolf dog you decided to risk showing your face in town, bad move, you should have stayed in the forest where you belong” Steel said as he circled Balto.

“Steel what is going on? I thought we were friends” Balto replied looking at Steel in shock.

“You thought wrong HALF BREED” Steel snarled in reply jumping on Balto, sending him to the floor. “You should never have here in the first place.”

“Steel please I am your friend” Balto coughed gazing up at Steel.

“NEVER! I would never be friends with a filthy half breed like you” Steel snarled in reply a look of utter hatred on his face.

      Just as Steel was above the strike Balto again Jenna jumped in-between them, her face full of anger. Steel stared at her in shock never expecting her to intercede, on the floor Balto looked up with a mixture of surprise and relief.

  “Since where did you attack Balto? Why are you attacking your friend Steel?” Jenna asked narrowing her eyes.

“Was my friend Jenna. Not now, he is nothing but a filthy wolf half breed.”

“I cannot believe what I am hearing. We played together as pups, hours together on the beach and in the forest. You repeatedly defended Balto from your teammates.”

“I was a foolish pup back then I was wrong to be friends with that half breed, no Jenna I should not have done those things.”

“How can you say that? You defended him against your own father!”

“A mistake Jenna, my father showed me how wrong I was, he forced me to face what was at stake if I continued to be friends with a half breed.”

     Jenna stepped back in shock as Steels words echoed in her ears, never expecting to hear such things from him. A look of confusion crossed her face unable to believe what she was hearing.  On the ground Balto hung his head in shame. Around them the dogs in the circle grinned and nodded in agreement at Steel’s words.

 “You’ve changed Steel, changed into a dog I do not know, a dog I never thought you would become” Jenna replied staring at Steel.

“No Jenna I’m still me the real me.”

“The Steel I know would not hurt Balto, the Steel I knew was his friend.”

“You need to see Balto for who and what he really is a wolf dog. You and me Jenna we could have something special I may be a year older than you but we could” Steel said smiling at her gently.

“I don’t, I cannot” Jenna stammered.

    Looking between Steel and Balto Jenna suddenly felt as if everyone’s eyes were on her. Out of pain and confusion Jenna suddenly leaped over the head of one of the dogs, running away from them as fast as her paws would carry her. Seconds later Balto repeated her trick following hot on Jenna’s heals, nether shopping until they where the boats, both slipping underneath them. Both collapsed onto the snow, panting as they looked at each other both unsure what to say.

“I cannot believe Steel did that to you” Jenna whispered breaking the silence.

“It was to be expected he is Irons son and a pure breed husky” Balto replied.

“No Balto it is not to be expected. Steel was out friend he had no right to say those things to you. You have as much right to live here as we do.”

“He is still your friend Jenna, I am the one he has the problem with. He was right I am a half breed, I should not be friends with pure bred dogs like you.”

“Do not say that. You are my friend no matter what. I don’t care what Steel or anyone other dog says.”

“Face it Jenna we cannot be friends we were just fooling ourselves.”

“We made a promise to always stay friends no matter what, you, Steel and I we made an promise.”

“That was a dream, a promise made by foolish pups. I’m sorry Jenna” Balto replied hanging his head. “You should stay away from me I am nothing put a half breed being with me will only harm your reputation.”

      With that Balto turned away from Jenna walking off across the ice. As he left Jenna collapsed, tears rolling down her face. Her heart ached with a pain she could not understand, unaware of what she was truly feeling for Balto. Lying in the snow Jenna sobbed her heart out. The after a while she felt a warm body next to her, looking up she saw her mother Fiona sit down next to her.

“Oh Jenna I am so sorry” Fiona whispered licking her cheek.

“This isn’t fair, Balto and Steel were my friends we had so much fun together as pups. Why does everything have to change, why can dogs not see past the wolf in Balto?”

“I am not sure Jenna some dogs fear wolves and we all know what humans think of wolves.” Fiona replied looking at her daughter. “Go home Jenna you need time.”

     Climbing to her paws Jenna ran underneath the boats running home as fast as her paws would carry her. Reaching home Jenna ran straight up to Rosie’s bedroom finding Rosie sat on the floor playing with her toys. Seeing her Jenna ran straight into her arms, tears falling down her face as Rosie hugged her.

“Jenna has something bad happened?” Rosie asked.

       Looking at her mistress Jenna nodded in reply. Walking over to a small bedside cabinet she put her paws on two pictures, both featuring herself and Balto.

“Something has happened to Balto and you, has Steel hurt Balto?”

    Again Jenna nodded her eyes fixed on the pictures. One showed herself, Balto and Steel as pups on the beach all three grinning and wagging their tails. The second showed herself, Balto and Rosie playing together in the snow. Looking at the pictures Jenna cried bitter tears at ending of her friendship with Balto. Looking at Jenna Rosie’s heart went to her and to Balto wishing things were different. Together Rosie and Jenna sat together remembering the fun times they had had with Balto, both hoping at someday things would change, utterly unaware of what would happen in a year’s time.

       End