Cathán walked through the woods near Fairbanks pulling a small sled on wheels. Next to him walked his musher’s son Franklin, a boy with dark brown hair and sparkling hazel eyes. Franklin was a young boy of ten, not the most experienced driver but then Cathán was no normal dog. Cathán was a grey and brown husky with a dark brown marking on one leg which earned him the nickname Chocolate Paw by his friends. The pair were a few miles from home, in an area that both knew well, spring had arrived at last, life was returning to the forest. Franklin was in the woods to do some artwork for a school project and Cathán was with him to make sure he returned home safely. The sled was loaded with the food, water and art equipment. Walking through the woods the pair stopped whenever Franklin saw something that caught his eye. In the couple of hours they had been out Franklin had captured several birds, a hare and a fox. Sitting by a tree stump Cathán watched his young master draw, keeping his senses alert for any hint of trouble.

Suddenly Cathán caught a scent on the wind, a scent which was seen as a threat to human and dog alike. Acting on the best interest of Franklin, Cathán raced off to investigate, to see whether the scent’s owner would pose a threat. Running around a corner near a waterfall Cathán stopped in his tracks, as drinking from the plunge pool was a stunning white wolf. As Cathán approached her head shot up, her golden eyes looking straight through him. Wolf and dog were united in a brief moment as they regarded each other. Cathán was captivated by her beauty, never had he seen a wolf or dog as beautiful as she.

“I am here with my master’s son, he is nearby doing artwork. I caught your scent on the wind. I have come to see if you are a threat to him” Cathán replied walking forward.

“I am no threat to your human so long as he does not try to harm me” the wolf replied. “I do not harm humans.”

“Then you and I have nothing to fight over” Cathán replied with relief walking a step closer. “May I ask your name?”

“You are charmer, is that your master?” Aniou asked as Franklin walked around the corner.

“Hi boy, wow a wolf, you are beautiful” Franklin said as Aniou stared at him. “Chocolate Paw could you ask her to pose for me?”

Walking away from the pool Aniou climbed up onto a rock that overlooked the pool. Laying down Aniou hung her paws over the edge of the rock and looked directly at the pair, wagging her tail happily. Seeing her pose Franklin immediately understood, sitting down on a rock and opening his sketchpad. Sitting next to him Cathán admired Aniou, her pure white fur, her beautiful and her personality. Like most dogs Cathán had heard stories about wolves and had met some wolf dogs in his time, but he had never met a pure wolf.

Sitting on her rock Aniou admired the husky in front of her, his grey and brown fur and his blue eyes. As a spirit Aniou had seen dogs before yet she had never met one and was naturally wary of them as they were of wolves. Despite this she could not help but admire him and his blue eyes captivated her. Calling on her spirit powers she was able to see into his heart, seeing that it was good and strong.

After Franklin had finished the painting Aniou walked down from her rock, standing in front of Cathán and Franklin.

“I am glad he is happy” Aniou replied as Franklin hitched Cathán to the sled.

“It was a pleasure to meet you Aniou, you are the first wolf I have ever spoken to. I now know that the stories about your kind are untrue.”

“You need not apologies for what you though, you knew no better. You have done no wrong. I am pleased that you see my kind in a new light, as does your friend Franklin, the world needs more like you.”

“You are to kind, well we have to be head home or Franklin’s parents will hit the roof, goodbye Aniou.”

Arriving home that night Franklin related his meeting with Aniou to his parents, both of who were surprised yet impressed. As he laid in his kennel that nigh Cathán thoughts drifted to Aniou.

“Why on earth am I thinking about that wolf? I’ve just met her today. Fine she was beautiful, white fur, eyes like the sun. STOP. Stop thinking about her! It was how she acted, she was nice, pleasant, she posed for Franklin. That is why I am thinking about her, she posed for Franklin and made his day. Must be the spring madness getting to me” Cathán thought as he fell to sleep.

A couple of weeks had passed since his meeting and Cathán was in the forest once more, this time for a long run. With the arrival of spring the workload for sled dogs decreased slightly, meaning he had more free time to relax. The forest was one of his favorite places, and running through it was one of the few times he had privacy. Running over the lush grass Cathán breathed in the crisp, clear air, enjoying the feeling of grass beneath his feet. Then suddenly around a blind bend came a deer, missing him by inches, when seconds later he was hit by the creature perusing said deer.

“Owe my head, jeez what where you are going……” Cathán said as his eyes fell onto the creature he had hit.

Aniou glared back at him angrily as both picked themselves up off the floor, shaking their fur out and checking for injuries.

“You ran into me dog, all I was doing was hunting” Aniou snapped. “Now you have caused my lunch to escape.”

“Well maybe you shouldn’t chase game around blind bends! I didn’t even have chance to flipping move!”

“Well it should be. Anyway nothing you can do now, how about I treat you to free lunch?”

“You treat me to lunch, how? You cannot hunt” Aniou replied was the pair began to walk through the forest.

“No, but I sure know a great hotel that gives its leftovers to dogs” Cathán replied with a cocky grin.

“Perhaps they would. So tell me, do you make a habit of knocking over unsuspecting dogs?”

“Hardly” Aniou scoffed shaking her head. “You may be able to surviving in, you can tell the thickness of ice, you can sense danger, but you do not truly understand it.”

“Oh please she wolf give me a break. I am a sled dog, running through forest is my job. I know the trails, where the hills are.”

“Exactly you know how to run through it, you do not know how to run in it” Aniou replied as they reached a river.

“Run in it” Cathán replied cocking his head “Is there a difference between the two?”

“Oh yes, one implies fear the other that you are one with the forest” came the reply as the pair swam across the river.

“Yes, to understand it, to respect each part of it. If you can do that then you need never fear it” Aniou whispered as she shook her fur. “Become one with the forest and even the depth of winter, on the darkest night, even when all your team mates lose hope you would be able to lead them home.”

“Teach me then. Teach me how” Cathán answered looking directly at the white wolf.

“Alright sled dog I will. Are you willing to meet me here and obey my commands?”

Looking into her eyes Cathán saw a wild spirit and a genuine desire to show him her world. Walking next to Aniou, Cathán listened as she explained the ways of the forest animals, the deer, moose, about the eagles that soared above them and how to find carrion by following ravens. By the time sunset arrived Cathán had learned more about the forest in one day then he had done in his entire life.

“Meet me at the waterfall in three days time, meet me at dawn and we will go tracking” Aniou replied.

At dawn three days later Cathán slipped out of his kennel careful to not wake his teammates or his master. Fairbanks was just waking up as he left town, passing a couple of delivery men, the postman and a milkman on the way. Walking into the forest Cathán soon arrived at the waterfall, checking his reflection as he waited. He did not have to wait long as Aniou soon appeared, walking up behind him as silently as a shadow.

“Then it is a lesson to you, to truly surviving you will need to be able to surprise deer.”

Walking deeper into the forest Aniou taught Cathán how to track animals, how to tell the difference between deer and moose, where bears lived and what their tracks looked like, the best places to hide when hunting and how to hunt. Listening closely to Aniou and by do exactly as she said, Cathán managed to make his first kill by the end of the day, a rabbit only but it was still a start. Looking at his kill Cathán grinned with pride at his success, presenting it to the white wolf.

“Not bad for a first day but not good enough to survive on” Aniou replied flicking her tail. “You will have to do much better than that, and you still have a lot of lesson in front of you” Aniou replied as the lesson continued.

A month passed and slowly Cathán began to see the forest differently to his friends, noticing the tracks of the animals and picking out places that would conceal himself. He learned how to hide from humans they encountered and how to detect their traps. He found that his senses were heighted, he could detected the movement of rodents under the ground and the slightest sound of deer. His teammates also began to notice the slight changes to his behavior and all wondered where he was spending his time.

Two months after his first lesson with Aniou, Cathán walked next to her through the forest, both were silent enjoying the sound of the birds and the rushing of the river.

“Ever since I was a pup I have enjoyed walking in the forest, yet I was always slightly scared of it before I met you.”

“No longer scared, it’s as if I belong here and that I can really survive here.”

“You can live here now” Aniou replied running up to the waterfall. “You can hunt as well as some yearling wolves can.”

“Really, you are a fine hunter to say you have lived in a town your entire life.”

“That is all well and good in summer but it is now September, soon fall will come with winter on its heels.”

“That I am, and one of the best, you know I am lead dog on my team” Cathán replied proudly.

“Leader that is a lot of pressure and responsibility, for a dog I can tell you are right for your position.”

“I just did not want your ego to get any bigger than it already was, that was big enough already” Aniou smirked jumping up onto some rocks.

“EGO! Why you…..” Cathán gasped jumping onto the rock and pushing her head first into the cold water.

“For that comment about my ego” Cathá smirked as he looked down at her. “You didn’t really think I would let that pass did you?”

“Oh males! You are so full of pride” Aniou muttered climbing out of the water.

“Why you…..” Aniou replied smiling and shaking her head. “I cannot believe I am having this conversation with a dog.”

“Well I never thought I would have been taking lesson from a wolf for the past two months.”

“Well then it is time I did. In four days time the humans are putting on an end of summer musical at the theatre, all humans and dogs will be going, would you like to come?”

“Yes as friends. I could take you for dinner afterwards to that hotel, a chance to see my home.”

“Not really. The play doesn’t start till late and the people at hotel leave will only see me. Come on Aniou, have a little fun for once.”

“Well….” Aniou replied looking at Cathá’s hopeful face. “I suppose once could not hurt.”

Four days later Cathán stood in front of the mirror in Franklin’s bedroom watching as Franklin brushed his fur and placed a handsome black and silver collar around his neck. Checking his appearance Cathán let a woof of pleasure, licking Franklin’s hand before walking out of the room. Walking outside he passed several of his teammates all who were well turned out.

Reaching the edge of town a short time later Cathán found Aniou waiting for him, her fur shining brightly in the moonlight.

“Come with me Aniou and see my home, don’t worry everything will be fine, I promise.”

Taking a deep breath Aniou stepped into Fairbanks keeping close to Cathán as he led her down the back streets. The pair kept to the shadows, avoiding humans and dogs alike, well aware of the dangers they faced. Walking through the town Aniou gazed around her with amazement, her senses overloaded with the unfamiliar smells. As the pair passed behind a bar they heard yelling and both jumped to one side as two men flew out of a back window, crashing into the metal bins. The pair watched as the landlord walked out of the back door.

“Right you two are barred for a month!!” the landlord shouted hauling the men to their feet by their shirt collars. “And you’ll be paying for that window!”

As the men were dragged off, Aniou watched them with curiosity, having never encountered a bar before. Quickly Cathán explained all about drinking and Aniou shock her head at the strange actions of humans. Walking away the pair soon arrived at the theatre and Cathán led her around the back, through the cast entrance into the animal seats located in the gods. Sitting down Aniou gasped at the splendor of it all, the silver painted ceiling, the lights and the plush blue seat covers. All around her Fairbank’s residents in their finest clothing, men in evening suits the ladies in dresses. Bankers and merchants with their wives, the town mayor and his family, shop keepers and their families, young teenagers in couples and several tourists, as well as a hundred or so dogs. Never in her life had Aniou been in the middle of such a place, yet despite her fear she could not help but feel safe. Then the lights went down and the show began. For three hours the audience watched as the story of Sleeping Beauty was told, each song bring more applause from the audience. The interval came and Cathán successfully stole two bags of popcorn, with Aniou slightly bemused at it. When the show ended the audience stood up to applauded calling for an encore. The leading lady and gentlemen were presented with a bouquet of flowers each, with the other cast members receiving a single rose.

“It was amazing, I have never seen anything like it before” Aniou replied as they walked down a street.

“One of the best shows I have ever seen. So would you like to go for a late dinner?”

“The one we are heading to will be. The Washington is the finest hotel in town the kitchen is open as it does room service.”

As it was quiet Cathán led Aniou along the main streets of Fairbanks, passing closed shops and businesses. Looking through the window of jewelers Aniou admired the gold, silver, rubies, and emeralds. As they passed a saloon the pair stopped as three men went sailing through an open doors, landing on their backs in the dirt. Looking at the men the pair saw that one was minas his boots and coat, another had blood pouring from his nose and lip and the third had two black eyes.

“And you ruffians can stay out!!!” shouted the landlady shaking her fist. “If I catch you in here again I’ll skin you alive and have your guts for my bootlaces!!!!!”

“That will be after I’ve done with you, the beating you’ve just received will be nothing, one of you has just felt my fist” said a young barmaid. “We run a respectable business here we don’t need jackasses like you brawling every other night!”

“To right we do not” replied the landlady. “And you’ll be paying for the damage you’ve all caused!”

Shaking their heads the women walked back inside and Cathán and Aniou continued on their way. Soon the pair reached the Washington Hotel, a grand six story building with an excellent reputation. It was a high class establishment only taking the most respectable clients. The bar was first rate, the restaurant employed the best chefs to be found in Alaska. In the bar a band or a pianist played every night and there dances on a Friday and Saturday nights. So prestige’s was it that it even employed two teams of sled dogs during the winter months. Slipping around the back the pair arrived at the kitchen door just in time to see a maid put out the days leftovers. The moment the door closed the pair walked towards the food, grinning at their luck.

“So this is human food, why is not raw?” Aniou asked as she began to eat some chicken.

“Raw? Humans cannot eat that, they have to have it cooked over fire for some reason, this is good stuff” Cathán replied tucking into the remains of a joint of beef.

Eating their food Cathán sly looked at Aniou taking in every detail, as he ate a feeling he did not understand surfaced. For the past couple of weeks his feelings towards Aniou had been changing and as had his feelings towards his girlfriend Amelia. As the pair began on the leftover deserts Cathán pondered his feelings.

“What is it with Aniou? Why is it that I cannot get thoughts of her out of my head? I should be thinking about Amelia more than her, and the new racing season will start soon. For the entire summer we have been having fun, she has taught me how to survive in the forest. But I have known Amelia for longer. Why do I feel so happy whenever Aniou and I are together, who I have this need to be with her?”

As the pair finished their meal the sound of other dogs drifted around the corner startling the pair. With a nod to each other they set off, managing to avoid the oncoming dogs, all of who were pure breed huskies. Walking through down the pair soon reached the edge of the forest.

“For the next couple of weeks I am after that things are going to be very busy.”

“Then I will see you in a couple of days, goodnight Cathán” Aniou replied walking off into the night.

As she settled down to sleep in her cave that night, Aniou thought about her night with Cathán.

“Tonight has been fun with Cathán I never thought I would see a humans form of storytelling. Why did I accept his invitation? For what reason did I take that risk? I could have been captured, I took a huge risk. Yet it felt right, to be in a human town with him, it was so strange…….I have helped humans many times….and I have been in Inuit villages many times, yet I had never been in the villages of the pale skinned humans. They are so different…… They have no respect for our ways of life…..Then why did I feel so at ease being with Cathán? I am a wolf, I do not belong in a village, yet I agreed to visit his home again. Why did I agree to start teaching him to hunt? He is a dog, a foolish dog who I encountered once. Why is it then at I feel so drawn to him, why do I feel happy when I spend time with him?”

Winter arrived with a vengeance with a three days blizzard, sixty mile an hour winds and six foot of snow falling. Thankfully the residents of Fairbanks were a hardy bunch and managed without much trouble. The winter sledding work kept Cathán incredibly busy and it was early December before he was able to see Aniou. Walking out of town Cathán passed nodded to his girlfriends Amelia as she sat with some friends. Reaching the forest he soon reached the waterfall where he found Aniou gazing into the plunge pool.

“No” Aniou replied turning to face him. “It is good to see you again Cathán it has been too long.”

“Yeh it has…with winter coming I have been really busy….with supply runs, carrying passengers and the races….I’m a busy dog.”

“Perceptive as ever….Amelia is rather high maintenance” sighed Cathán. “She wants to see me every day, she doesn’t understand that something I need space.”

“I love her…I mean we have been together since spring, I just wish she would back off sometimes. She wanted to spend today with me she wasn’t in the least bit happy when I said I had plans.”

“She is at times……….I’ve got a race coming up in a couple of days, would you like to come and watch?”

“Not really we are friends” Cathán replied looking at his friend. “Come on Aniou this an important race, the team and I could use your support.”

“Great, thank for this” came the reply as the pair continued through the forest.

A couple of days later Aniou slipped into town, keeping to the side streets and shadow as she made her way to the race track, that being the main street in town. Reaching her destination she gasped at the amount of humans and dogs who had gathered to watch the finish.

“Girl over here” came a voice and Aniou looked around the find Franklin waving at her. “Come over here and watch the race with me.”

Seeing the excitement and kindness in his eyes Aniou walked over to him, passing by the other humans unnoticed. Sitting down next to Franklin, Aniou received a shock when he began to stoke her fur, yet she soon came to enjoy it. To her surprise Franklin seemed relaxed, even offering her a licorice all sort, which she liked instantly. Watching the race both cheered as Cathán’s team crossed the finish line, a meter ahead of another two teams.

Leaving the side lines the pair ran over to the team, Franklin throwing his arms around his Dad and Aniou nuzzled Cathán, just as Amelia appeared.

“Sweetie who is…….” Amelia said glaring at Aniou. “A wolf…you cheating…”

“Of course it is, oh how could I have been so blind…..all that going off into the forest…..you were with her” the cream husky snarled. “We are through I do not want to be with a dog who cheats on me.”

“Forget about it, I was tired of all the drama, let some else handle her” Cathán replied as the team gathered around him.

As the group talked the sled dogs quickly realized that Aniou was a decent wolf, some were happy to talk to her but, others gave her the cold shoulder, with a couple throwing some nasty comments her way. As many of the dogs acceptance Aniou she was invited to the celebrations that night, many keen to hear about life in the wild, in return telling her stories of town life. By the time the party had finished that night Aniou had been except by some of the town dogs, but also had experienced first paw the harsh comments and rejection of others. Both Cathán and Aniou now understood the difficulties and criticisms they would face being friends.

Three weeks after the race Cathán stood outside his home waiting for Aniou. As he waited he thought about his feelings toward the white wolf, feelings which he at last understood. His breakup with Amelia had allowed enabled Cathán to admit his feelings to himself.

“Alright you have to keep your feelings to yourself today, just until you figure this out properly. For one thing you are both different creatures, she is a wolf and I am dog, you saw how the team reacted the other day. You have just come out of a long relationship you need a couple of days more to think things through. But do I, maybe I should just tell her? Chances are she…but what if she does not feel the same way about you. Is it really worth telling her and risk losing what you have? If this goes wrong she could cut contact with you, no it might be better to keep your mouth shut and enjoy what you have.”

As Aniou walked up to his house, Aniou tensed as she heard the barking of the other dogs, some of whom had not been friendly to her when she had met them. Seeing Cathán she relaxed a little.

“So this is where dogs live, thank you for inviting me” Aniou replied looking around with curiosity.

At the sleds the pair found that a two dog training sled had been left from a training session earlier that morning. Overcome by curiosity Aniou sniffed it, picking up the scent of the two dogs that had last pulled it and Franklin who had driven it. Coming to the leather harnesses Aniou picked up the scents of leather.

“Are you being serious?” Aniou replied looking at Cathán in shock. “In case you have forgotten I am a wolf, there is no way I could pull a sled.”

“Of course you could, the two dogs that pulled were rather large, we can easily fit in the harness.”

“I have always watched you dogs pull sleds, I have wondered what it felt like.”

“Then slip that harness on and try pulling the sled with me” Cathán said looking at her with a grin.

Stepping into the harness Aniou shock herself as the leather settled on her fur, finding the weight unusual. As Cathán stepped into his own harness, the joy that he always experienced set in.

The pair set off running past the kennels, the dogs barking in shock at the sight of husky and wolf running together. Leaving the compound the pair headed for the forest, the sled runners leaving tracks in the snow. Passing into the forest Cathán picked up a well travelled trial, one that headed from Fairbanks, eventually arriving in Anchorage. The pair soon settled into a pace which was comfortable for both of them, with Aniou soon growing used the sled. Together the pair past landmarks and places they had encountered on foot. From the trial side animals watched the pair in awe at the sight, never had they seen a wolf pulling a sled, well at least not a pure blood wolf. As they ran, each admired the other, looking away when they caught the other looking. Wolf and husky ran side by side, their speed matching perfectly, they paws leaving prints in the snow.

Then the forest ended, the pair were on open ground, the frozen river in front of them. With a nod to each other the pair kept going, running onto the river, their paws leaving tracks in the snow. Reaching the opposite bank they passed a family of beavers, the animals very startled at the sight. Following the trial the pair ran across the open ground, running until they reached the top of a small hill.

“Tiring and very odd, I would not like to do it every day” Aniou replied slipping out of the harness.

“Well dogs are trained from an early age, you did well to say it was your first time, you kept pace with me.”

“You set a slower pace to compensate for my inexperience” Aniou panted lying down.

“I did at first but then I set my normal pace for these conditions, you kept up with me at a race level pace” Cathá replied laying down next to her.

“Not many wolves would be willing to pose for a portrait” Cathán stammered. “You are a friend of mine, a close friend…. The other day at the race, what happened…it was for the best….Amelia and I had been having problems.”

“I am sorry for that…but…….you are my friend….but I want….I mean” Aniou replied looking away.

“Yes a thousand times yes, for months now” Cathán replied nuzzling her gently. “I have loved you for a long time.”

“That is enough for me, as long as we can be together” Aniou replied as they gazed out across the forest.

With the revelation of their feelings for each other Aniou and Cathán spent more and more time with each other, and their respective friends soon noticed a change in them. In their different lives their love was hidden as much as possible as both wanted to keep things private. Together in the forest they were happy racing through the snow, playing together and spending hours talking. For Cathán the relationship had a noticeable effect as he always ran faster whenever he saw Aniou during them. Neither set of friends could work out who was affecting their friend but they it had to be someone special.

Walking through town on New Year’s Eve the pair admired the decorations, the lights strung between the shops, the tree in the town centre. From inside the theaters and saloons music could be heard, accompanied by same wonderful singing in the former and some very tuneless and off key in the latter. Families and couples walked along the streets, heading to and from various places, paying little mind to the pair. The town was out in force to welcome in the New Year, with many choosing to gather on the banks of the river, the setting for an outdoor concert and from where the fireworks would be lit. As the clock struck ten to midnight Cathán led Aniou to the town bank, taking her up onto its roof.

Suddenly there was a screech followed by a loud bang as rockets exploded in the night sky, sending multi colored sparks everywhere. Aniou jumped at noise utterly shocked at the sight. More fireworks lit up the sky rockets, roman candles, Catherine wheels whirled while children waved sparklers as the sky was pink, purple, blue and silver stars fell from the sky. Watching from the roof Aniou and Cathán had one of the best views in town, occasionally waving to other dogs and several cats that were sat on other roves.

“Just like you” Cathán replied as the show ended and the band began to play. “Come on, let’s go and watch the band, my musher’s wife is singing.”

Leaving their spot the pair walked down to the river, meeting several of their friends on the way. Reaching the river they were met by a large crowd and the smell of food cooking on open air stalls. There was a carnival atmosphere, everyone out for a good time, the best of the American character coming out.

“Cathán Snow” Franklin called walking up to them wearing a hat bearing the US flag. “I thought you would be here Snow” he said stroking Aniou.

Together the trio walked through the crowd, gazing around them, eager to take in everything. Stopping at a hotdogs stand Franklin ordered three hotdogs, placing two of them on the floor.

Licking their lips Cathán and Aniou took a bit savoring the taste of ketchup and mustard. The hotdogs were gone within minutes and the trio continued, passing people handing out free US flags, hats, balloons and scarves to the crowd. Taking two scarves off a man, Franklin tied one around Cathán and then Aniou’s neck. They were not the only animals wearing clothing, several other dogs wore scarves, a couple had hats on and a few more had balloons tied to their collars. Walking onto the deck of a boat the trio watched as a magician turned a cigar into a bunch of flower, made three owls fly out of a pillow case and pulled an arctic hare out of a battered top hat. Children cheered with delight as the owls hooted, with the magician allowing the audience to stroke them, letting those over twelve hold the hare and the owls.

Leaving the boat Franklin led them onto the frozen river, the heart of celebrations. In a section cordoned off with rope people danced, others sat at tables drinking and talking. On a large stage a brass band played with Franklin’s mother and uncle singing, both waving when they saw the trio. All three tapped their feet in time to the music, joining in when the singers asked them to. The mood was lively; everyone having a good time, even the law enforcement officers were tapping their feet.

As three o’clock arrived the celebrations began to wrap up, the band played their final song, and the town mayor official closed the celebrations. Walking home together the trio saw many sights, the magician getting bitten while putting the owls, the band loading their instruments onto sleds. Couples staggered off the ice together, laughing as they went down, their feet slipping from underneath them. Some of the men picked up their wives, a couple putting them over their shoulders, while others had their arms wrapped around each other. As the saloons closed their clients staggered down the steps, many were unsteady on their feet, walking home with their arms linked together. Some broke into drunken song, others were so far gone they had to be carried home, everyone was happy, with a rosy glow on everyone’s face. There had been no fights this night, jokes had been told, dancing done, tables fallen off, a few barmaids flirted, several hands of cards played, pockets had been emptied and the new year welcomed in with raised glasses.

“I would love to, but I cannot stay at your house, your owners would not like it.”

“Not a problem I know a boat that is not being used, we can stay there” Cathán replied leading her towards the dock. Settling down inside the boat a short time later the pair kissed as they curled up under some blankets, soon falling fast asleep.

A fortnight later Cathán walked through Anchorage on his way to the start line for a race he and his team were taking part in. It was a charity race in aid of the Anchorage Trust for Orphans, a trust which took care of orphans until a time they reached adulthood or were permanently adopted. The race was from Anchorage to Fairbanks, a race which had attracted many mushers, many seeing it was an opportunity to test their dogs. Cathán and his team had been in the city for a week and in that time he had met many dogs. It had not all been plain sailing as news of his relationship with Aniou had spread like wildfire. Some had been accepting but others had been intensely hostile and Cathán had had many cruel comments hurled his way. Those comments had caused him to consider the nature of his relationship with Aniou.

“Well we did promise to walk to the start together, besides there are things I need to say to you” Fire replied as they walked.

“It does. I live in Nome, at least one pack lives nearby, I’ve seen them out on the hills…..I’m happy for you, if you love her then I am happy for you both.”

“I am, I’ve not met her yet but she sounds lovely, as long as you understand what you are doing, wolves are hated by many dogs.”

“Oh I know about that trust me, but when I’m with her……..I don’t know…..when I am with her……I feel alive” Cathán replied as they reached the start line.

“Then you have a lot of thinking to do……. Your love will not be accepted, carry on along this trail and things will hard…..just make sure that this is really what you want” Fire replied as they took the positions at the head of their respective teams.

A few minutes later everyone was ready, a gun went off and the race began, the crowds cheering as the teams raced out of town. In telegraph office a message was sent to Fairbanks informing that the race had begun. The news was warmly received in Fairbanks and was delivered to a waiting crowd that had gathered. In the crowd stood Aniou eager for news, severe storms had been forecast for the coming days, so she was glad the teams had started safely. As the crowd dispersed Aniou walked back through the town, heading for the forest.

“Well well what have we here? A wolf” came a voice and Aniou turned around to find Amelia and four other dogs.

“Knock of the politeness” Amelia snarled walking up to her. “You can help me by leaving Cathán alone.”

“I am, but another husky should be with Chocolate Paw, not a wolf like you. He is one of the best sled dogs around….he is for too good for wolf scum like you….you tricked him with your charms”

“Cathán is much too intelligent for that, he is with me through his own choice.”

“No he is not” said one husky as the others encircled Aniou. “You are not worthy of him.”

“Yes it is….a sled dog like him should not be with wolf scum….he is only with you for fun….it will not last” Amelia said flicking her tail.

“I love Cathán what we have is special and it will last, not matter what you or any other dogs think” Aniou snarled stepping towards Amelia.

“You are dreaming wolf…every dog in town is against you, they hate what you have. Sooner or later he will come to his senses and leave you….a dog like him will not do something that other dogs do not approve of” Amelia replied laughing as she walked off.

Watching her walk away Aniou shook her head, heading out of town, trying to ignore what had been said. Running out of town Aniou did not stop until she reached the waterfall.

“What is she is right? I am a wolf….” Aniou thought looking at her reflection. “No matter how much he fits into my word he is a dog and I am a wolf. I may visit his home but I will never truly belong there, today as shown me that. Whenever I am in town humans and dogs only see a wolf, they cannot look inside me. Perhaps Cathán and I have been fooling ourselves…….what we have may not last. As much as we try……our worlds might be too different.”

Over the next few days Cathán and Aniou thought about their relationship, the fine weather providing Cathán with the time to think. For Aniou things were different, as her responsibilities as a spirit took up much of her time. Finally the day arrived when the first teams arrived in Fairbanks, with Cathán coming in third out of about sixty teams that had entered. Standing at the finish line Aniou howled joyfully when he arrived, racing over to him.

“It is amazing the winner’s dogs are older and much more experienced than me, wow third I never thought” Cathán replied as his musher released him.

“Of which a wolf like you would know little” said one dog snarling at Aniou.

“No I will not” Flint snarled. “We all disapprove of you and that wolf scum, you can do better. She is a little scum who is beneath you.”

For seconds a fight ensued, both dogs snapping and snarling at each other. Then it was over, Flint was panting on the ground with Cathán stood over him, both bearing cuts on their bodies.

Together both walked out of town, well aware of the repercussions that their actions would have but at that moment neither cared.

A couple of days after the race Cathán sat in the train station, next to him sat Fire, both talking about the events of the past couple of days. It had been Fire’s team that had won the race, and his team had also witnessed the fight with Flint. Despite the three year age gap between the two dogs they were friends, though Fire did live in Nome and not Fairbanks.

“Things have gone too far Cathán, that fight with Flint…..he said what a lot of dogs are thinking” Fire said watching the midday service from Nenena pull in.

“Many have told me….not to mention what Amelia said to Aniou during the race….that conniving little…what she said….”

“Well she was only airing public views, I understand how you feel, I am willing to accept it…..but others are not….After I met her, I believe more than ever that you two are perfect for each other. I’ve talked to a couple of the wolves around Nome they have been pleasant to me.”

“You are one of few who do…..jeez why are dogs so blind that they cannot see past her looks? I wish they could all see the amazing, beautiful, kind hearted creature I see inside, if they saw that the other dogs would understand” Cathán sighted.

“Well some do but the majority will not. Listen Chocolate Paw you have to make a choice, either you choose your career or you chose Aniou. I’m sorry to say it but both worlds cannot work together. Most half wolves we have met have had husky mothers and wolf fathers, the fathers have never been around.”

“You have a point, heck I have been thinking a lot about…She is amazing, being with her, I feel alive, as if I someone to be proud of. She is amazing, like an angel that has fallen to the earth, someone so amazing she could not possibly be real. I would do anything for her.”

“You really love her” Fire gasped in reply. “She is not just another fling to you.”

“Never, I want to be with her forever, I used to think I had all everything but my life was just a game until she came along. I cared only for racing.”

“You’ve changed Cathán, you’ve been changed because of her… I never thought I would see the day. Once years ago…..when I was younger… I fell in love with a wolf…she was beautiful but I was young…….I was torn between her and my sledding life. I ended it because of our differences as I was unable to handle the pressure we faced. You are stronger than I was, you and Aniou have a chance to be happy, think on it” Fire replied leaving Cathán with his thoughts.

That evening Cathán made his way to the old train station where that the sled dogs used as a club house. The station workers were well aware of this and in the winter they kept a fire burning out of appreciation of the dogs work. Sled dogs and their friends/family were allowed in, a place to catch up on the news, play ball and have a singing session without trouble.

“Alright Chocolate Paw time you sorted this out once and for all. This cannot go on any longer not after what Amelia said to Aniou. These are your friends, you know all theories and fears surrounding wolves. Explain this to them tell them those theories are untrue. Tell them what Aniou is like and how much she means to you. They might listen and be willing to change their behavior. They are your friend they will understand if given the chance, they are acting like this out of fear and distrust of wolves. For heaven’s sake you no need to be nervous, you have grown up with these guys. They all have girls, once they see how much I love her they will come round.”

Reaching the station Cathán walked into the room to find a crowd of his friends sitting around chatting about the recent race. Seeing him they called greetings and wagged their tails, with many of the visiting team’s dogs also present, among them Iron and a pretty black female.

“Long time no see Chocolate Paw” called one, a red and cream dog called Red.

“Was wondering when you would turn up” called a Flint, sitting next to grey and white male called Giant.

“It’s good to see you guys” Cathán replied walking over. “I’m not here just for fun I am here to explain the situation with Aniou.”

“Listen to me guys we need to talk about this cause I am pig sick of the way you are treating her. Let me explain things and you will understand.”

“Alright then Choc explain your little thing for this she wolf,” Giant replied looking at his friend.

“Aniou maybe be a wolf but she is not like the wolves in the stories we hear. She has never hurt a human, her kind shy away from humans at all times. Her kind do not attack dogs or livestock, they stay away from towns at all cost.”

“If at that stuff is true then how did you meet her and why has she come into town?” asked Red in a sarcastic tone.

“We met by accident when I was out in the forest. She has come into town because I have invited her to see my home. When she has been in town watching races she has stood next to Franklin, he has stroked her, given her sweets and not once has she attacked him. In fact she is very good friends with him, she respects him and treats him well. If she was as vicious as you guys are making out she would not be so gentle with him.”

“But Franklin is special to you Chocolate she may be acting nice around him to please you.”

“Untrue. You know Red I’m shocked by your attitude, your own brother understands my love for her, why don’t you?”

“So tell us Choc why did you chose this wolf over Amelia, what has she got that a pure bred husky like Amelia did not have? Is Amelia not good enough for you?” Flint asked.

“Aniou is different to Amelia. When I am with Aniou I feel alive. She is amazing, I cannot put my paw on what it is but….”

“You’re under her spell Choc, that little she wolf has bewitched you” said Iron, a large black and white dog, walking over to the group. “That filthy she wolf has seen a respectable dog, in her jealousy she has decided to turn you against your own kind. You and I may not see eye to eye all the time but even I don’t want you to do something rash. Listen have a bit of fun with her if you like, I mean wolf she may be but she is pretty. Heck lots of dogs have done it, had a little fun with a pretty she wolf before getting a serious mate. Leave it at that though, tell her it has to end when you’re ready, I’d do it soon if I were you.”

“Well said Iron. Listen to him Choc, your ego has been given a boast by her attention and with all your success, well stress happens” Flint said placing a leg around Cathán.

“My point exactly. You don’t want to throw away your career just for a little she wolf. She is unworthy of you. I mean Amelia was upset but she’s calmed down and understands how things are” Iron said as the other dogs nodded.

“You guys don’t get it. I love Aniou! I love her, this isn’t just a fling for me. I know your history Iron, we all know about that she wolf you met in the forest last month. This is not the same. I want to be with Aniou, I want you guys to accept our relationship.”

“You cannot be serious Cathán” Flint said staring at him. “Aniou is a wolf. You cannot be with her. She is not good enough for you, she is…”

“Chocolate this is madness. She is a wolf you are a dog. You are not meant to be together, my god she has bewitched you” Giant said shaking his head.

“I never imagined I would here this from you Chocolate Paw” Iron said as he stared at Cathán in shock. “Wolf and dog should not be together. A dog is better than a wolf, wolves are dirt and you know it. No you are making a mistake falling in love with this she wolf. Snap out of it.”

“Iron is right Chocolate Paw” Red said standing up and walking over to him. “This is madness. You have a great career ahead of you, throwing all this away for a wolf is utter madness. You came here asking us to accept this, well we won’t. This Aniou is wolf dirt you can do far better than her.”

Hearing his friends words Cathán stepped back in utter shock, unable to believe what he was hearing from his friends. Aware though he was of their prejudices he had hoped they would come to accept his love for Aniou. In utter shock he walked to the door, his eyes full of disappointment and pain. Then a feeling of anger entered him, turning to face his friends Cathán glared at them.

“I thought you guys were my friends, I though you would accept my feelings for Aniou. I was wrong about you guys. You have all betrayed me. So fine stuff your opinions. I love Aniou and nothing you say can or will ever change that. ”

Leaving the station Cathán made his way to a grand house, where an older, but still beautiful grey female husky laid on a blanket on the veranda. Seeing him approach she looked up and smiled at him, a white collar around her neck. Seeing her smile Cathán bounded over to her and lovingly licked her cheek before laying down next to her.

“I am pleased to see you, you are troubled” the husky said looking at him. “You are unsure of what path to take as regards Aniou and you seek my advice.”

“Perceptive as ever Mother and you are right I do seek your advice. I’ve just come from the station, I tried to explain about Aniou, they refused to listen. They called her a filthy wolf. I am torn Mother, between my racing career and Aniou. You are the wisest dog in town you are called Bella the Wise by all for it.”

“I will help you in any way that I can” Bella replied. “Tell me what you feel.”

“I love Aniou when I am with her I feel truly happy, she is princess from a fairy story a creature so wonderful she cannot be real yet she is. When I am with her…..I don’t know how to describe it, all I know is that I want to be with her. Yet we are persecuted for our love, others don’t understand or refuse to accept based on the simple fact that she is wolf. Don’t they know that all dogs come from wolves? I hate how they treat her. Yet at the same time…..all I ever wanted as a pup was to be a great sled dog like Father was. I don’t know what to do Mother, please I know that Aniou is a wolf……”

“I understand my son, I understand that you've met someone
With a perfect heart
But you've been questioned by everyone
So you're in the dark
Can you choose to fall?
Should you risk it all?
How am I going stop it if you want to give it all to love?
When I'm on your side
And I understand you're the only one to know
Whether wrong or right
Let your heart decide (you're the only one)

Some may tell you don't take the risk
It's a waste of time
But if you think you'll find happiness
Son take the dive

It's unusual
But it's critical

How am I going stop it if you want to give it all to love
When I'm on your side
And I understand you're the only one to know
Whether wrong or right
Let your heart decide” Bella sang looking at her son. “You are the only one who can make this choice.”

“My heart” Cathán whispered looking into the night sky. “Aniou holds my heart in her paws just as you do. I worry for you Mother…….if I made the ultimate sacrifice I would worry about you.”

“You need not my son, I have years left in me yet and my owners take good care of me. You are my son I love you unconditionally. No matter what path you choose I will be proud of you. There is a Celtic say “trust your heart for it is often wiser than your head.” Trust in your heart and let it guide along the right path.”

The following night Aniou and Cathán sat on the pier, boats were moored up nearby, above them the stars shone brightly. Neither spoke for a while, unsure of what to say and scared of how their discussions would affect their lives.

“This cannot go on the way it is” Cathán said looking across the river. “The dogs here hate wolves and they think…”

“That I am beneath you, Amelia said as much to me…she hates me that I know…I know what the other dogs think of us.”

“I love you Aniou…I love you so much, but this cannot continue…something has too….”

“Cathán it does not matter what the other dogs think…..we can fight it….”

“Is that what you want? To be constantly teased, all the comments, dogs chasing you around town?” Cathán asked looking at Aniou. “What you are saying…it is not the life either of us want. You are a wolf, a smart, amazing wolf you should not have to deal with that, you are better than those dogs.”

“You are right saying is that something has to change, we have to make a choice” Aniou replied meeting his gaze.

“So that means you must choose between me and racing career, you cannot mean anything else. Our two worlds cannot be together, so there is only one choice for us.”

“We have to…..” Aniou stammered, tears forming in her eyes. “We have to……”

“Leave Fairbanks for good” Cathán said standing up. “We have to leave tonight, run as far away as we can.”

Never knew I could feel like this
Like I've never seen the sky before
Want to vanish inside your kiss
Every day I love you more and more
Listen to my heart, can you hear it sings?
Telling me to give you everything
Seasons may change, winter to spring
But I love you until the end of time
Come what may
Come what may
I will love you until my dying day” Cathán sang walking over and kissing Aniou, placing one paw over hers.

“I love you so much Cathán, I am so glad to hear that. We leave tonight together we leave for a new life.”

“Yes together you and I can do anything. We do not need this town we can live together wild and free in the forest.”

“Together” Aniou replied smiling at him. “Would you like me to take that collar off you?”

Seconds later the collar was off, as Aniou had covertly used her powers to take it off. Picking up the collar Cathán walked out onto the ice and dropped it through a large hole, watching as it fell into the icy water.

“There done, the collar is gone and so is my old life, time we were leaving.”

Looking at each other the pair smiled, heading out onto the ice, their paws leaving few tracks in the snow. Reaching the other side Cathán looked back to Fairbanks, the lights of the saloons and few homes shining. Turning his back on the town he looked towards the forest, smiling at Aniou. Together the pair ran into the forest, running until they reached the waterfall. Standing on the top of the waterfall the pair lifted their heads and howled, their voices ringing out across the forest and into Fairbanks. Together the pair howled out their love for each other, their souls uniting under the star filled sky.

Well aware that the humans would start searching for Cathán, the pair began to travel east, heading in the general direction of the coast. Cathán himself had travelled east before, he had taken part in races to and from Nome and various towns along that way. Working together they travelled through the deepest part of the forests, avoiding the dog sled trails to avoid capture. However there forest was vast and few mushers would risk driving through an area of forest that they did not know. It was only done when the need was paramount and locating a missing sled dog fell very short of that category. As they travelled the pair encountered other animals, passing and hunting deer, birds flew above them, amused at the sight of a wolf and dog together. For the first time in his life Cathán felt truly free and happy, no longer confined in a kennel but free to live as he wished.

Over the next few weeks the pair travelled and were welcomed by the wolf packs they met, spending weeks with one pack or another before moving on. Despite their welcome Aniou always wanted to move on after a few weeks, unable to settle with anywhere. This fact concerned Cathán as he could not understand it, despite his fears over being found by humans.

“Why do we keep moving Aniou?” Cathán asked two months after they had left Fairbanks.

“I am taking you to my home” Aniou replied as they walked through the forest. “I know a beautiful place where we can live. The nearest human town to it is Nome, I say nearest, but it is miles away from that town.”

“Oh I am a little different to other wolves, I was to adventures for my own good I have certain gifts.”

“Whatever you say I did not mean to pry but Nome… well it is certainly far enough from Fairbanks. I know Nome quite well.”

“I am glad you do, we may have to pass through it. At the very least we will have to pass by the town.”

“It might be advisable for us to slip in…..” Cathán mused. “I have a friend there he would be able to tell us how the humans reacted to my disappearance.”

“There are advantages in finding out the situation with you it would certainly ease my mind.”

Continuing on their way the pair were oblivious to the magnificent bald eagle who flew above them, his eyes fixed on the pair.

Two months had passed since Cathán and Aniou had left Fairbanks, stood on a hill above Nome they looking down into the town as the sun set.

“We should go now, town will be quiet few humans will be around. My friend lives on the edge of town, by slipping through town we should be able to reach his home without getting caught” Cathán said looking over the town.

Heading into Nome the pair slunk through the streets, keeping to the back alleys to avoid detection by the humans. As they walked Cathá could not help but remember his old life and part of him felt drawn towards the humans. Arriving at a street called Wolf’s Walk the pair stopped outside one house as Cathán caught the scent of food from within drawn in part by the bright light shining from the window. Walking over to a window Cathán put his paws on the window ledge, looking at the humans inside while remembering his former life. Seeing the hint of pain in his eyes Aniou joined him, putting her paws on the outside window ledge next to his.

Looking through the window the pair watched the family inside, their gaze falling on a three year old girl with red hair who was playing with a doll. Suddenly the girl looked around and saw the pair, her eyes widening at the sight. To their surprise she walked over to the window, climbing onto an armchair that stood next to the window. For a moment Aniou stared at her with shock, having never met a human that young before. Seeing the girl Cathán smiled, wagging his tail as he had met the girl before when he had raced in Nome. Then the girl placed her hand on the glass, seconds later Aniou did the same on her side of the glass. Aniou’s paw dwarfed the human’s small hand. Wolf and human were united as yellow eyes stared into emerald.

“Rosie what are you doing?” called a voice, and the human turned her head to see her Father looking at her.

“Wolf? What the heck?” Rosie’s father replied walking into the hallway and opening the door.

Outside Aniou and Cathán jumped looked at the human, their emotions hidden, desperate the keep the situation in control. Looking at pair Rosie’s father was conflicted, on one hand he knew how dangerous wolves were yet at wolf in front of him appeared tame. Then Rosie appeared next to him, her eyes fixed on the white wolf.

“Thank you wolf, you are nice and pretty” Rosie said smiling at the pair. “I am happy you came here.”

Seeing the happiness, innocence and sincerity in her eyes, Aniou howled a song of freedom that rang through the street. As she howled Rosie felt something deep inside her reach out towards the magnificent wolf. Ending her song Aniou smiled at Rosie as she and Cathán walked away from the house, disappearing down a side ally.

Walking through town Aniou and Cathán soon reached his friend’s house, the latter barking to attract his friend’s attention. Seconds later Fire and a female red and cream husky appeared the female visibly pregnant.

“Cathán! What the flippen heck are you doing here?!” Fire asked in shock. “You did a vanishing act!”

“I didn’t have a choice I wanted to be with Aniou, we could not be together in Fairbanks.”

“So this is Aniou” the female said stepping forward. “Cathán, do you have any idea how much trouble you caused?”

“I will and it was a lot, half the town was out looking for you. Pulling that moonlight flit had the entire town talking for weeks!!”

“Unhappy? Only that he did not tell Fire of his plan. You certainly shut those interfering gossips up, showing them what real love is about” Fiona replied grinning at Aniou.

“It certainly did, you both caused a right stir among all sled dogs” Fire replied grinning mischievously. “As long as you are happy then so are we.”

“No any longer, your team keeps an eye out on trials and during races, but when you didn’t appear after six weeks they gave up.”

“Not any longer” Fire replied shaking his head. “So tell me, what brings you here?”

“I am leading Cathán to my old home and we have to pass this place” Aniou replied.

“I wanted to call on you guy, to find out the situation with my former humans.”

“One more thing” Aniou said explaining the encounter with Rosie. “Could you possibly tell us something about her?”

“Her name is Rosanna” Fiona replied with surprise. “She is such a lovely girl kind hearted and so innocent, she is has a talent of seeing people for themselves.”

“We should add brave to that list” Cathán mused. “She showed no fear of us.”

“She is indeed. We heard your howl, sooner or later the humans will come looking for you” Fire replied. “You had better think about leaving soon, the last thing you need is for a human to see you.”

“Then we had better leave now” Cathán replied. “Thank you both for your help.”

“Yes thank you both for accepting our love” Aniou replied. “You have shown yourselves to be true friends.”

“You make him so happy Aniou, you are perfect together, good luck” Fiona replied.

With that Cathán and Aniou left Nome, running as fast as they could to the forest north of the town. Both were unaware of the events to come for even Aniou had not foreseen the significance of her chance meeting with Rosie nor the impact Fire and Fiona’s daughter would have on the life of their son.

A couple of weeks after leaving Nome Cathán and Aniou arrived at their destination, arriving in a valley just as before sunset. Under the shadow of a mountain was a cave, next to it was a small lake and all were in a forest clearing, it was a place that few animals knew existed, a place that was safe and private.

“This place is fantastic” Cathán said as they walked into the clearing. “I would never have imagined it could exist.”

“This place is paradise and perfect to raise a family” Aniou replied smiling.

As the weeks passed Cathán took increasing responsibility for hunting, meaning he was often away for hours at a time. It was during one of these occasions that Aniou’s oldest children, the white wolf Aurora and Valeria the grey and white wolf came to visit.

“I was wondering when you both would come and see me” Aniou said as her daughters sat down next to her.

“We have been watching you both, we have seen your new mate, he is not like our father” Aurora said flicking her tail.

“He is not, and I have not forgotten your father” Aniou replied softly. “But I love Cathán, how or why I feel in love with him…..I want to be with him, all I hope is that you are willing to understand.”

“We do Mother, he makes you happy we can see that, as long as you are happy then so are we” Aurora replied as Valeria nodded in agreement.

“He loves you just as much, he was willing to sacrifice his racing career for you, he is virtually a wolf” said Valeria as an eagle landed in a tree.

“I am so glad that you are happy with my choice, I have thought about telling him about you, but that would mean telling him what I truly am….that I cannot do.”

“Then say we are your friends or sisters, that way we could meet him and your cubs” Valeria replied smiling.

By the time that Cathán came back from his hunting both Aurora and Valeria had gone, reassured that their mother was happy and with the promise they would see her again when they could.

A week passed and on a bright morning Aniou and Cathán’s pups entered the world, four in total three males and one female. A dark/light brown one was named Balto, his dark grey brother was named Suka (meaning fast), his light brown/ white / dark grey brother became Arden (meaning eagle valley). The only female of the litter had matching markings to Balto, where he had dark brown fur she had light brown and where had had light brown she had white. This coloring earned her the name Eagle, a name which also came from a pair of eagles who lived in a tree next to the cave.

“Balto, Eagle, Arden and Suka our pups, I never thought this day would come.”

“Free in this paradise” Cathán replied licking his pups and curling his body around Aniou.

Over the next few weeks Aniou and Cathán adjusted to being parents, both were there the day the pups opened their eyes for the first time. Once the pup’s eyes were open they began to take an interest in their surrounds and it soon became clear they knew their father as all would speak when he arrived back from hunting. Lying in the cave one night Cathán watched as Balto pushed himself up onto his paws, then tottering slightly Balto walked over to his father, stopping in front his nose.

“Well done Balto” Cathán said with pride licking his son and placing a paw around him.

The pair then watched as Eagle stood up, her legs shaking a little as she walked over to the pair. As the pair cheered Eagle’s legs gave way and she fell onto her father’s back, her curly tail wagging as Aniou laughed. Letting out a bark Eagle turned her body around so that she was laid on her father’s back. Then Suka stood up and ran around the cave before jumping onto his mothers back.

“Owe Suka that hurt, we certainly named you right” Aniou said shaking her head.

Impressed by the success of his brother and sister, Arden stood up, and walked directly towards the entrance of the cave, looking at the world for the first time.

As the pups grew they became increasingly curios about the world outside the den, with Eagle and Balto spending hours sat at the cave entrance. There favorite time was when their parents sat with them at the cave entrance, telling them about the outside world. At five weeks old the cubs were allowed out of the den for the first time, and the day was perfect, bright sunshine and warm.

Sniffing near a tree Eagle’s ear went up as she heard a screech from above, looking up she saw three bald eagle chicks staring down at her from their nest.

“Mummy and Daddy said they called named me because of my color, can we be friends Wind?”

Elsewhere Suka and Arden were investigating a rabbit warren their noises twitching at the unfamiliar scent. Next to the lake Balto was watching a fish, his eyes fixed on their silvery scales. Watching their cubs Aniou and Cathán smiled their tails wagging with happiness.

Over the next few weeks the pups spend more and more time outside the den, their days taken up with playing, napping, eating, and playing some more. Each had seemingly boundless energy, racing each other around the clearing and playing with their parents. It soon became apparent that Balto and Suka had inherited their fathers speed, as both spend hours racing each other. The friendship between Eagle and Wind blossomed to the surprise of their parents. Arden emerged as the joker and trouble courser of the litter, forever getting into mischief, where it be as simple as coming home covered in mud or as serious as falling into the lake. The latter gave his parents a shock, prompting swimming lessons for the cubs. Fittingly Arden was the quickest learner with a love for swimming appearing during the lessons.

When the pups were six weeks old Cathán and Aniou told them about their mixed heritage, explaining how they met and of their love. The pup’s young age enabled them to accept their heritage happily, as they did not fully understand or know how dogs and humans saw wolves.

“What is a town like?” asked Balto a couple of days later as they sat in the cave watching the storm outside.

“A town is where humans live, it is a place made of wooden den which humans live in” Cathán replied describing Fairbanks to Balto and Suka.

“That is strange, I would not like to live there” Balto replied watching the rain.

“So am I Suka, we wolves do not need a town, we would be prisoners, I am glad we live here free” Balto replied as the rain eased off. “Can we race you Dad?”

Seconds later the three set off racing through the woods, all trying their hardest to win with Cathán deliberately running slightly slower than normal. The rain soaked their fur within seconds, their paws becoming covered in mud, their delighted howls filling the forest. Putting on a burst of speed Suka edged ahead of his father and brother, reaching the finish line seconds ahead of Balto. Wagging their tail the cubs delighted that they had beaten their father, unaware that he had allowed them to win. Walking back with their father Balto and Suka grinned at each other, their tails held high with pride.

Slowly the weeks passed the pups grew up lively and healthy, curious about everything and anything. From their parents the pups learned how to survive in the forest, their life was paradise. Watching them play, playing with them or hunting with Aniou, Cathán always had a smile on his face. For the first time in his life he felt truly happy, without releasing it he had found the piece missing part of his heart, for the first time he truly felt as though he had something to protect.

Sitting in front of the cave one day Aniou watched as Balto and Eagle jumped onto Cathán’s back, both laughing as he stood up and gave them a ride. Then there came a loud splash as Suka and Arden landed in the lake, both swimming confidently towards the opposite bank.

“TURN BACK BOTH OF YOU!” Aniou shouted bounding over to the lake. “YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED OVER THERE.”

Hearing his mother’s call Suka immediately turned around, running over to her as soon as he climbed out. Arden on the other paw completely ignored her and carried swimming over towards the other side of the lake. Seeing her son’s actions Aniou snarled before setting off around the lake, on the wind she caught an unwelcome scent, one which sent fear down her spine. Glancing behind her she saw Balto, Suka and Eagle playing under their father’s eyes. Turning back around Aniou saw that Arden was only a meter from the shore as her ears alerted to the rusting coming from the tree line.

“Arden swim towards me” Aniou called looking at her son. “Come here NOW.”

Seeing the apparent anger his mother’s voice Arden swam over to her, getting out of the water with his head held low. Then he stopped as he caught hold of a strange scent, and then out of the tress came a female lynx, tensing once she saw the pair.

“We are and we mean you no harm, that I swear to you” Aniou replied. “My son should not be here.”

“The word of a wolf, some of my kind would not trust that, but you are a mother” the lynx replied as kitten walked out of the tree. “This is my daughter my other kits are in the tree.”

“My name is Mist” the kitten replied as she and Arden sniffed each other. “I have never met a wolf before.”

“I love to play, always with my brothers thought, never with any other animals”

“Glade is my name. Mist I want you go back with Aniou and Arden, I will be along once I have collected your brothers” Glade replied.

Playfully tapping Mist on the nose with a paw Arden set off running around the lake, Mist following him and Aniou walking behind. Reaching his home Arden received a mild telling off from his father, who was a little surprised to see Mist. By the time the introductions had been completed Glade had arrived with Mist’s brothers. With moments all six were happily playing together, racing around and jumping on each other. Watching their children the parents grinned at each other, happy that their children had found friends.

A couple of weeks after their meeting with Mist and her family, the pups awoke to find their parents lying outside their cave whispering.

“Awake that last! It is about time” Cathán said licking them. “Today we are taking you on a tour of the forest.”

“Yes we are, it is time you saw just how wonderful your home is” Aniou replied grinning.

“This is going to be so much fun!!” Eagle yelled as Balto howled with delight.

The pups finished their breakfast in record time and the group set off through the forest, the pups looking this way and that. Twigs broke beneath their paws, birds sang above them and the trees rustled in the wind as they walked. The pup’s eyes were wide as they walked taking in each sight and smell. Passing through a clearing they stopped to watch a herd of deer grazing, slipping away quickly so that the adults did not worry. Rabbits hopped in front of them as they walked their fluffy tails bopping along as they hopped. Then suddenly a creature raced out of some bushes, running smack bang into Balto, sending both of them to the floor.

“What in??? You idiot” the creature said getting to its paws. “Dumb kid.”

“I’m….” Balto stammered looking at the creature, a male coyote. “You ran into me.”

“You stupid fluff ball you have……” the coyote replied then stopped as Aniou and Cathán’s shadows fell across him.

“Nothing nothing at all” the coyote stammered well aware of the danger he was on. “Er just took a wrong turn, er slipped, accidently knocked him over.”

“He was running from me” came a voice and the group looked up to see a male lynx appear from the trees. “This filthy little scavenger has just stolen some of my lunch, thief, he was running from my jaws.”

“I needed to eat, listen I’m sorry knocking over your cubs, please don’t let him eat me.”

“This is not our concern” Aniou replied leading the pups away from the pair.

As the family walked away they suddenly heard the coyote utter some very colourful language, followed by a loud splash from a nearby pond. Seconds later the male lynx appeared grinning broadly.

“So sorry about that language, thieves have no concept of polite Alaskan” said the male smiling at the cubs. “So which one of you did he run into?”

“Well then you will be pleased to hear that I just dropped him into a pond, I dropped him from a tree, about eight foot off the ground, that should teach him to respect his betters.”

“He would not have dared, trust me on that, a tip for all of you” the lynx said looking at the pups. “Coyotes are nothing but cowardly thieves challenge one to fight and they will not fight fare. They will avoid hunting their own lunch at all costs preferring to steal some of yours if given half the chance, don’t give them it.”

Then the lynx left the family, vanishing into the tress above, camouflaged in the foliage. As they walked the pups began to hear the sound of water, turning a corner they came to a river. Looking down they saw fast flowing rapids, the grizzly bears standing on the rocks trying to catch the leaping salmon, and sheer number of bears. Steadily Aniou and Cathán led the pups further up the river, an area which was calmer and away from high concentration of bears. Reaching a spot deemed suitable the adults began to fish with Aniou catching a salmon moments later. Then seconds she gasped as Suka dived into the river, sending water all over her.

With identical grins Balto, Arden and Eagle dived in, sending water on their father who laughed at their antics. Shaking their fur the pups chased each other through the river, taking delight in jumping off rocks. Surfacing from a jump Balto found himself nose to nose with an adult male bear.

“Relax wolfie I’m not going to harm you, that I swear, plenty of fish here for us all” the bear replied as Balto swam into the shallows.

“That is a good name, you are a brave one” the bear replied looking at Balto.

“You said you would not hurt me, my mother told me bears respect other hunters.”

“She is s very wise wolf than, we bears will not hurt other hunters unless threatened” replied the bear walking next to Balto.

“She is nearby, I am sorry for what happened, you were not there when I jumped.”

“You have no need to apologise Balto, I jumped from the same rock as a cub, would you like a ride on my back?”

From the bear’s back Balto looked around him and let out a howl, a howl which his family heard, all staring at the pair in utter shock. For Aniou the shock was double as she knew the bear very well and had worked with him on numerous occasions, yet she could also see the motive behind his kindness, the curiosity over her pups. As the bear set Balto onto the ground he tipped Aniou a wink, a genuine smile on his face.

“You both have a very brave son, he was not terrified when we accidently met, kept his head completely, very polite as well.”

“I would never hurt a youngster, not in this time of plenty, goodbye Balto it has been a pleasure meeting you” the bear replied heading back up the river.

“You have been very brave Balto not many pups would keep their heads when faced with a bear” Aniou replied licking her son.

“He was a nice bear, I liked him” Balto replied as they settled down to eat the fish. “I wish we could have spoken for longer.”

After the fish had been eaten the family left the riverbank, walking next to the river for miles. A family of otters swam next to them in the water the youngsters ducking and diving, letting out squeaks of pleasure as they played. Both sets of youngster regarded each other with curiosity, soon chatting to each other. Their parents shock their heads at the sight, amazed at the ease their children interacted.

Reaching a bend in the river the wolves jumped across a series of stones to reach the opposite bank, with each member managing them safely. Now the pups were excited as they had never been across the river before, it had always been the ultimate boundary they could not cross. To their surprise it looked much the same the other side did. In their minds the pups had created it be a fighting and dangerous place out of the barrier their parents had imposed. In truth their parents had imposed to the barrier to prevent the pups from landing themselves to much trouble.

The family headed towards the mountains keeping away from the sled trails that ran through the area, another reason to keep the pups away from the area. The pups raced a little ahead of their parents, laughing and barking, their paws leaving tracks in the dirt. Reaching the mountain the pups drew closer to their parents, a little scared and unsure what was at the top. As they climbed higher the trees slowly decreased until there was only bare rock. Reaching the summit the family walked to the edge, looking at the forest that was stretched out in front of them, catching sight of their home in the distance. As the wind played with their fur three eagles soared above them, then Aniou let a howl with each member of the family joining in. Their voices rang out across the forest, voices full of joy and happiness.

Winter had arrived in Alaska the last of the summer sun had long gone, but this also brought fun and adventure. Waking up one morning Balto was amazed at the sight of the snow on the ground having never seen it before. The pups frolicked in the snow under their parent’s watchful gaze, with more than one pup slipping on ice. With their father Suka and Balto raced through the forest, their paws leaving deep tracks in the snow.

One ordinary day Balto, Cathán and Eagle were walking through the forest when they heard the sound of a human voice. Crouching low the trio looked through the trees to where a human boy sat sketching, it was Franklin. Then Eagle stepped on a twig which broke with a load snap, causing Franklin to look strait at them.

“Chocolate Paw is that you?” Franklin asked using the old nickname. “It is you, it is great to see you boy.”

With a nod to his children Cathán walked out of the trees with Balto and Eagle following behind. Reaching his human friend Cathán licked him as Franklin’s arms wrapped themselves around his neck. Seeing the pups Franklin knelt down in the snow, gently placing on hand on their fur, with Balto climbing on his knee.

“I was right all along Choc, I guessed you had left with Snow I am glad you are happy. I was never angry at you Choc I was happy for you. Thank you for allowing me to meet your pups” Franklin said stroking Balto. “You don’t have to worry about anything, I promise not to tell anyone I saw you.”

Picking up his sketchpad Franklin drew the trio, capturing each separately and then the trio together as a group, capturing each of separate characteristics. A while later it began to grow late Franklin packed up his things and headed home. As he passed a hill he heard a howl and there looking down at him was Cathán, Aniou, Balto, Eagle, Arden and Suka standing together. Seeing them Franklin grinned at the sight, pleased he could see the family together. Looking down at the human boy Aniou howled before leading the family away, pleased that she had been able to repay Franklins kindness towards her.

A week had passed since the meeting with Franklin and the family was once again out in the forest, walking on what had recently become a new sled trail. The family were laughing happily together with Cathán telling Balto a story about his racing days, Suka and Arden were racing each other and Aniou was telling Eagle of the time she lived by the sea. Suddenly the group heard the sound of barking dogs and a human’s call. Cathán froze as he caught the scent of the team and sound of the human’s voice became clearer.

“Run all of you run!!!” he yelled looking at his family. “Into the tress and run as fast as you can.”

On the sled the musher gasped in surprise, as it was Cathán’s old musher and the team was the one he used to lead. Seeing him the musher put two and two together and a determination to get his dog back entered his heart. With a command he called the dogs to a halt as Cathán looked at him in shock.

“RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!!” Cathán yelled pushing his children into the trees, their paws carrying them as fast as they could.

“Aniou there is no, run you have to….my musher isn’t stupid, he’s seen the pups, he will know I am their father! You stand a chance together, they will not survive without you, if he gets his hands on them……they were born into freedom. You saw the persecution we faced, they will face it, he will try to catch them, run.”

With that the pair split up as Cathán turned to face his old musher and team mates and Aniou ran off after her pups. Moments later she saw them up ahead with Balto in the lead leading the others home. Seeing her son, pride surged through Aniou’s heart at his actions and leadership.

“I’m here now” she said nuzzling each one in turn. “You can relax now Balto, I will lead us home.”

“You did a very good job, I am very proud of you” Aniou replied as they ran up a hill.

Then they heard a howl from behind them and all turned to see a large rope being thrown over Cathán and him being dragged onto the sled. Time seemed to stop as Cathán let out a pain filled howl, his eyes fixed on his family as he fought for his freedom. Aniou’s heart broke as she watched and Balto stood with open eyes. It was over within seconds as Cathán was tied down to the sled. Aniou threw her head back and howled a note for pure pain, a note which was echoed by her children.

That night the broken family curled up in their cave, each grieving in their own way, with tears shining in their eyes. Then out of the darkness a stunning white wolf appeared.

“Aurora, I am so glad” Aniou replied as the pups looked up. “This is your older sister Aurora.”

“I am pleased to meet all of you” Aurora replied as she and Aniou stepped outside.

Once out of the pup’s earshot Aurora turned to face her mother, heartbroken at the pain in her eyes.

“He is being held by a chain outside a human den six miles away from here, this night the human drank something called whisky which send him to sleep. You are more then he knows, this does not have to end this way.”

“Valeria told me, she witnessed his capture, go mother I will watch over the pups” Aurora replied. “I will cast a spell which will send them into a dreamless sleep.”

With a nod of thanks Aniou used her magic, appearing seconds later in the trees behind the human hut. There bound by a thick chain the hunt away from the other dogs was Cathán, his head laid on his paws.

“Are safe in the cave with a friend of mine. There is something you do not know about me I can…”

“Please Aniou don’t, it will only increase the pain. You have to go back to the pups they need you more than I do you.”

“No we cannot” Cathán replied looking at her. “If I somehow vanished my musher will come hunting for us, if he found us he would take the pups and force them to be sled dogs, I would be a captive and you might be killed. Please Aniou this is for the best, if I remain he will not risk hunting you, he will not risk losing me a second time.”

“This all my fault” Aniou cried nuzzling him. “None of this would have happen if I had kept away from you, a wolf and husky should not have fallen in love…”

They say time heals any pain and slowly with the help of Aurora, Aniou and the pups began to overcome their loss. It was hard at first and there were many arguments between mother and pups as the pups fought for increasing independence. Thankfully Aurora was there to act as peacekeeper. The pups were fascinated by her, with Eagle and Balto growing especially close to her. Eagle was glad to have another female around, Balto found her very cool and the trio formed a tight bond. To Suka the white wolf was just a typical older sister, someone who he couldn’t understand but loved anyway. Arden just found her annoying but still couldn’t help but like her. With Aurora’s help the cubs perfected their hunting skills, inexperienced yet they improved every day.

Despite the healing it was clear that their father’s loss had had irreversible effects on the pups. This was most evident in Suka and Arden as they rejected their dog heritage, in Suka this grew into hatred of dogs and all humans and be would snap when the others spoke of such things. Arden now began to reject his families company in favour of that of the male lynx kittens. Though Aniou was upset by their actions she would it understandable as they had never met a human close up, and both looked more wolf than dog. For Balto and Eagle the affect was different as Eagle looked more dog and had a curly tail so she found her brother’s actions hard. Eagle found comfort in her mother and sister, yet she still remembered the kindness Franklin had shown her. Balto too remembered Franklin, part of him felt connected to the humans and was curious about their world. The conflict within Balto and Eagle did not go unnoticed by Aniou, something which paint her deeply and part of her wished she had never told the pups of their mixed blood.

“They seem to be healing” Aniou said a few weeks later as she and Aurora watched the pups playing.

“It is hard, I love Cathán deeply, I should have known it would not last” Aniou sighted in pain. “The other spirits hated what we had, they feared that one would have my power, they said that I should not be with a dog.”

“Oh just that when Valeria and I heard about what they had said…..well she kind of went mad….and she gave them a piece of her mind.”

“I’m not quite sure, but the shouting was loud and the air was blue afterwards.”

“She was and she never minded bending the rules or manipulating situations either.”

“No she never did, why has she not come to see the pups?” Aniou asked thinking of her older daughter.

“I’m not really sure” Aurora replied “She had a vision around the time they were born she thinks they will play an important part in the future. You know what she is like, the arctic is her home.”

“I have not looked into their futures, I do not wish it yet, not unless my paws are forced” Aniou replied watching her pups. “None of them have our powers, they are mortal wolves, no I will not do that to myself until they are grown.”

Then Balto bounded over, jumping onto Aurora’s back as Suka and Arden did the same to Aniou.

“Come play with us Aurora” Balto said pulling at her ear playfully. “Come on.”

“Owe Balto you have sharp teeth, no I played with you this morning and I have to hunt later.”

“Then take us bunny hunting” Balto replied wagging his tail “They are fun to chase.”

“You brought this on yourself Aurora” Aniou chuckled “You taught them how to hunt rabbits, once you had done that they will always want to go.”

“Now you know how your father and I felt, go on off you trot” Aniou replied as a reluctant Aurora took the pups rabbit hunting.

Out in the forest the hunting soon developed into play as Balto ran ahead and Eagle saw Wind flying above. Seeing the eagle Balto and Eagle increased their speed in attempt to fly, Aurora soon getting caught up in the game as memories of her own cub hood surfaced. Together the five ran through the forest, with Balto letting out a howl of joy as he ran his heart flying with the eagle above him. Looking at each other Balto and Eagle winked then both leapt into the air, flying for a second before landing managing to run instantly. Seeing their happiness Aurora took up the howl Balto stared, seconds later Suka and Arden joined in, and five strong voices full of joy filled the forest. Racing up a hill the five skidded in the snow, stopping at the hills edge. As the snow swirled around them Aurora raised her head and howled a cry which was taken up by Eagle, Balto, Suka and Arden.

Together the family howled their howls echoing throughout the forest, at the bottom of the hill Valeria heard their howl, her heart lifting at the sound. Her eyes darted to a snowy owl in the tree next to her then she lifted her head and howled, her cry joining that of her family. As she howled Aurora heard her sister’s cry and her eyes flicked down to the bottom of the hill, where they landed on her sister. Seeing the direction of Aurora’s gaze the pups looked down and saw Valeria standing at the bottom of the hill.

“No is better that we do not Eagle, besides she is only passing through this area” Aurora replied as Valeria walked away.

A little girl with red hair sat on a boat next to Balto stroking him, on her left sat a red and cream husky. Then the girl was lying in bed ill. The vision changed again, Aurora herself stood at the bottom of a cliff lying on the ground in front of her was Balto, she then howled, with Balto averting his eyes. Then the vision changed one more, back to Balto, the red haired girl and the female dog on the boat. Aurora stared at the girl as memories of her past came flooding back. As the girl patted Balto she looked up, for a moment her eyes turned to those of a wolf.

The vision ended as quickly as it had come and Aurora gasped in shock at what she had seen, for she had seen the girl before in a vision, a vision that had take place over four hundred years ago.

“She and Balto are connected his fate and hers are woven together. Those wolf eyes the girl has, I understand why now, but why are she and Balto tied? Balto was in a town and I was with him, what will happen in the future?”

It had been a two months since Cathán’s capture, Aniou and the pups walked through the forest as a blizzard swirled around them. The blizzard was so intense that they could not see more than a few inches in front of them. The blizzard had arrived suddenly and without warning an hour before hand on what had been a bright day. Now the family was walking home steadily, their care increased as they were in the mountains, a dangerous place in the winter but even more so when there was a blizzard. High above them a flock of Russian snow geese were blown of course, with several receiving critical injuries as they hit rocks and trees. The pups were scared as they had not experienced many blizzards and never one as severe as this. As they walked several stones slipped out from under their paws. Walking ahead of his mother Balto looked around him in a desperate attempt to see where he was going when a gust of wind blew snow strait into his face blinding him. Seconds later his paws went out from under him and Balto howled in shock as he went sliding over the cliff edge, hitting his head on a rock on the way, knocking him unconscious. Sliding down to the bottom of the cliff Balto was half buried in the snow. On the cliff Aniou howled in pain but was unable to see the spot through the snow and thus walked strait passed it. Down at the foot of the cliff Balto failed to hear his mother’s howl as he lay in a deep slumber.

Balto slowly opened his eyes, his vision swam as a Russian snow goose came into focus above him. Balto then became aware of the rest of his body and that he was lying down and a pain in his head. Looking around he realized that he was laid on his side and that the pain was coming from the back of his head. Slowly he struggled to his paw with the goose catching him as he fell into the snow.

“Easy kiddo not so fast, you’ve a nasty bang on your head, might have concussion” the goose said helping Balto into sitting position.

“At the bottom of a cliff, you were out cold when I got here, what are you doing down here alone?”

“I….there was a blizzard…I was with my mother…..I got snow in my eyes….I slipped.”

“I supposed as much” Boris replied looking at Balto’s face and seeing sadness. “Come on kiddo look up, it’s not the end of the vorld, I’ll help you find your family.”

“Course I vill, it vas a blizzard, it even blew me of course, not your fault you slipped” Boris replied pushing his own feelings aside.

“I knew there was something different about you” Boris replied as they walked away from the cliff.

The blizzard had gone but it had left a fresh blanket of snow in its wake, a blanket which had obliterated any tracks which had been there before had. For hours the pair searched for any trace of Aniou, Eagle, Suka or Arden, but Balto’s accident had taken him to an area he did not know. No matter how hard they tried or which animals they asked they were unable to find Aniou. The more time that passed the more fearful and upset Balto grew, his head hanging low as they walked. Balto felt ashamed that he was unable to use his wolf senses to find his family and he began to doubt his abilities. Watching Balto suffer Boris’s heart reached out to the young pup, his own loss helping him to understand what he was feeling.

“No we have to keep searching mother might be looking for me” Balto replied shaking his head.

“Not in the night she won’t be. I know you want to find them but you need to rest, besides we could walk right past her and not realize” Boris replied.

“I guess that’s true” Balto replied as Boris led him into a small thicket.

As Balto fell into an exhausted sleep Boris thought about the one who he had lost hours earlier in the blizzard after she had been fatally injured on hitting a jagged rock. His heart broke at the memory of her, his true love, tears falling from his eyes as his heart broke. All they had planned, having a family and settling down once they reached Nome, a place that was just a few short miles away. Then Boris’s eyes flickered to the sleeping pup, one wing stroking his fur.

“Poor kid he did not deserve this, he’s not even a year old yet, far young to be out alone in the wild. Wolves don’t leave their pack till they are at least two if not older he’ll not survive long on his own. It is not going to be easy when he realizes his family is gone for good, not going to be a pleasant task. He will be alone in the world…..” Boris thought shaking his head sadly. “No…not unless allow him to be. Come on Boris what would she say to you? She would not allow him to be alone, it is not right to just leave him. Family is what you both planned…..chicks to care for…..What is Balto if not a chick? Sure he may be a wolf mixed with a dog but he’s still just a lost kid who’s scared. He needs someone to help him, a father type figure or a friend at the very least….A friend….you can do that Boris….you can take him in…Nome is not that far…he is half dog…you don’t really have much choice…kid’s too young to hunt…he’ll starve here. Not the best of things…but you always were talented at making the best of bad situation….things will work out somehow” Boris thought as he slowly fell to sleep.

The following morning Balto and Boris awoke and once again began to search for Balto’s family but once again they had no luck. By the time midday arrived Balto’s spirits were on the floor as he finally accepted that he would never find his family again.

“I’m a useless wolf, I’m not a wolf I cannot even find my family” Balto cried breaking down near a pool.

Looking into the water Balto saw his reflection staring back at him, a young wolf, in his heart the conflict he had been feeling between wolf and dogs intensified. The pain of the last couple of days ripped through him. As Balto sat there he was aware of Boris telling him of the human town where they could live. A strange sensation washed over Balto and in a flash his mind cleared.

“I AM NOT A WOLF!!!” Balto cried with pain, casting his wolf heritage into the wind and slashing his reflection with his paw. “I am a dog, a sled dog, a husky.”

Watching Balto standing there Boris felt his heart break at the sight of the poor pup, aware that what had happened would have lasting consequences. Walking over to him Boris hugged Balto tightly.

“It’s alright kiddo, everyone will be alright” Boris whispered wiping away Balto’s tears.

“Alright kiddo, come on, we had best go now. Nome is still good walk away and we have to be there by nightfall” Boris replied as Balto stood up.

“You can call me Uncle Boris if you like kiddo” Boris replied as they walked.

At this Balto stopped in surprise then smiled his tail wagging ever so slightly. As they walked Balto’s thought’s drifted to his father’s tales from Fairbanks as the sled races.

“Maybe I will be able to pull a sled like Dad did, yes I can become a sled dog and then…..I could work hard and became a lead dog…and I could see Dad again at the races. Yes I can do that, I’ll became a sled dogs and find Dad….maybe we could even pull a sled together, or we could race each other. Nome is good sled place, I will be able to find him as a sled dog and we can be together again. Maybe humans will see him I me, we look alike….if I become a sled dog I could find a way to Fairbanks” Balto thought happily.

“Uncle Boris do you think I tell you my father is one of the greatest sled dogs around?”

“No you did not” Boris replied, happy to hear the world uncle. “Tell me about him.”

As the sunset the pair reached the hill overlooking Nome, down below them they could see a red and cream husky wearing an orange bandanna playing with a red haired human girl, the husky chasing a pink ball that the girl through for her. Balto watched the pair with fascination, amazed at the obvious bond between the pair, as the husky was treating the human as she would do another dog. Turning away from the pair Boris led Balto to the outskirts of Nome near the port, for Boris had been to Nome before and knew a safe place for them. Reaching on old abandoned fishing boat Boris walked up the gang blank, stopping when he realized Balto was not following him.

Putting his wing on his head Boris realized his mistake, Balto had been raised a wolf and did not know what a boat was and was confused by it all.

“This is called a boat, humans travel on the sea in it, this one is no longer used by humans” Boris replied as Balto stepped onto the gang blank. “We can stay here it will keep the worst of the weather out.”

“It is kind of like the cave we lived in” Balto replied looking around the cabin before jumping into a box and looking across to town. “That human we saw, was she a female?”

“Oh I had never seen a female human before, I once met my father’s human, he was only a young boy.”

Jumping onto a box Balto looked out across Nome his mind wondering about what the town would be like. Then in the distance he heard the sound of barking, turning to his left his eyes fell on a team of sled dogs running into Nome. Balto’s heart lifted as he saw them, his gaze fixing on the lead dog, this dog was Togo, a sledding legend. For Balto it was a dream come true to see such a team, with Togo fitting what he thought a lead dog should look like. Admiration filled Balto’s heart as he watched them arrive in Nome, watching as seeing the musher was hugged by his wife and dogs were greeted by their families. So will Balto, the son of Aniou and Cathán sink or swim Nome? Will his father’s heritage allow him to be accepted for who and what he is, or will his wolf blood lead to history repeating itself?

Celine Dion Let your heart decide, alterations are mine

Auoroa is my name for the white wolf. For info on the pairs birth see my fic The White Wolves beginning