Chapter 6: Better to Know and be Disappointed, Then to Never Know and Wonder 

They walked away from the cliff and began to make their way to Anthony’s. However, the weather quickly escalated from calm and peaceful to the howling winds and heavy snowfall. They luckily had already made it to Taylor when the weather had turned sour. Once they had entered the shed, they scurried over to the fireplace and warmed their bodies. Brigham jokingly nudged Akira, “Whew, that was a close one Akira.” Akira shook the wet snow off her body, which mostly hit Brigham’s face. Akira laughed, “Sorry, yeah I know though, it was getting pretty rough.” After they had finished drying off, they went into the other room to get food, but were surprised to find there was not any. Brigham was suspicious, “hmm, Anthony is always good about keeping us fed. I wonder what’s going on.”

Akira had a sinking feeling about what was happening. “You think his dad told him not too?” “ No, he said his dad really likes you, so he would make sure you’re taken care of.” “Let’s go find out what’s going on.” Brigham usually welcomed her spontaneity, but the weather outside was bad and getting worse. “I know you are worried about Anthony, but its too dangerous to go outside.” Akira’s worriedness had spurred a rise in her temper.  “Look, you don’t understand what it’s like, he’s my owner and he’s loved me and taken care of me for my whole life. I need to know he’s ok.” Brigham was startled by her tone, but he knew there was no reasoning with her. “Alright but how bout we take the alleyways and other back-ways. Is that ok with you?” Akira nodded, she didn’t care, she just needed to see if Anthony was fine. “Let’s check the doctors office first.” “Ok, lets go.”

 They left the shed and entered into the intense blizzard. The wind combined with snow made it near impossible to see anything. They walked through the alleyways, because they knew they would provided limited shielding from the storm. When they finally made it to the doctor’s office, they looked into the windows. The first window they looked through only let them see the place where the beds were. But there was more children than usual, in fact so many that all the beds were full. “Akira began to grow more worried. “What’s going on Brigham?” “I don’t know, but lets keep looking.”  They moved onto another window and looked in. Inside this window was the waiting room, which was also filled with children and their parents. Brigham was starting to become worried at this point and get concerned. Anthony… The next windows they looked in were various rooms for patients and rooms for the doctor to diagnose patients, but they never saw Anthony, not even his father. There was were two other doctors that Akira had never seen but still Akira began to get hopeful, “maybe he’s just at home and forgot, yeah that’s probably it.” “There’s no harm in checking,” Brigham was still suspicious of the situation at the doctor’s office. Akira wanted to get there as soon as possible so the two ran back to the house. They did not even go through the alleyways because Akira was so determined. When they arrived, they looked in the window to Anthony’s room and finally found their answer for where he was.

Anthony was lying in his bed with his parents beside him. All hope Akira had accumulated since the doctor’s office had vanished the second she saw Anthony. He was coughing severely and was sweating. Akira turned to Brigham in desperation, “What’s wrong with him?!” Brigham could feel the sadness and helplessness in her voice, “I don’t know, but is there anyway to get in closer?” “There’s a dog door in the back, we could get into the house through there.” Even though Brigham was curious about why there would be dog door if Akira was not allowed inside, he knew now was not the time to bring it up. They snuck into through the dog door and quietly made their way towards Anthony’s bedroom. Brigham knew he had to be extra stealthy considering his presence would not be the best thing in this situation. They got to the entrance of the doorway when Anthony’s father burst out of the room yelling back to his wife. “I have to get to the hospital; I’ll send someone over to get Anthony, but there are at least fifty children with just as severe cases of pneumonia and little to no antibiotics!” His wife called after him, “Honey, Nome has already said they will send it to Pilgrim Springs and then the sled dogs here will go get it.” However he had not heard her and with that, he slammed the door shut and ran out into the blizzard.

Akira started to cry and Brigham nuzzled her. “Hey, hey, don’t worry… everything will be fine Akira.” Akira, however, was unfazed by his statement and only replied despondently, “How can you be so sure?” What had started as a magical night had quickly turned into a horrible nightmare.  Brigham was unsure how to answer this question at first, but he soon realized exactly what he must say. “Cause I’m going to do whatever it takes to save him.” Akira stopped crying and looked up at Brigham. Her eyes were still wet from the crying and he wiped them with his paw. Brigham… “How?” Brigham had not actually thought out how he would save Anthony’s life. But he was determined to live up to his word.

In Nome, Balto had heard about the need for the medicine to get to Taylor. Jenna and Balto were in the den of Rosy’s house while the storm was going on outside. The blizzard was just as bad in Nome as it was in Taylor, limiting any flights or boats to get to Taylor.  “Balto, what do you think will happen to all those children in Taylor?” Balto was old now and his face showed it; he frowned, “I don’t know love, if only I was still fit I would help in some way.” Even in his age, Balto was still the hero that Jenna had fallen in love with fifteen years ago. He was still handsome as ever and had been the best mate she could have ever wished for. “I just hope they are saved, I know exactly how those people feel considering that the same thing happened here in Nome.” Balto thought that was the peculiar part. Why would there be another sickness plaguing another town? Something is going on here, and I have a feeling my mother might have a hand in this.

 “Balto? What are you thinking? You think Aniu is involved in this?” Balto chuckled, “You know, you can’t go around reading people’s minds Jenna, it’s invasion of privacy.” They both nuzzled each other and kissed. “But I do think she might be involved in this and it might have something to do with Brigham.” Jenna became excited, “Maybe Brigham will save the town.” Balto let himself become a little excited but still reasoned through the situation. “Maybe, it would not be unlike him to do such a thing.” Jenna sighed, “Let’s just hope we’re around long enough to find out what happens.” “I know what you mean, I can feel that our days are winding down. But I’m glad that I could spend my whole life with someone as beautiful as you.” “Seriously, after fifteen years you still call me beautiful.” “Yeah, well I cannot tell a lie, and I mean it when I say I love you just as much as I did the day I saw you.” They kissed a long romantic kiss, “I’m just glad we ended up as we did, I wouldn’t change a thing.” “Ditto.” They nuzzled each other by the fireplace and the slowly fell asleep. As Balto fell asleep, he wondered about his son, I hope you are alright Brigham, your mother and I both miss you dearly; no matter what happens, we’re both very proud of you and love you.

Chapter 7: In Troubled Times, Friends Abound

Brigham had spent the entire night with Akira trying to comfort her. They were lying by the fireplace when she finally stopped crying long enough to fall asleep. She dug her face into his coat and eventually drifted into sleep. Brigham felt the most peace he had ever felt, even more than the night before he set out on his journey alone. He loved being with Akira, and though it seemed wrong, he was glad that she fell asleep in his embrace. When he awoke the next morning, Brigham heard a loud noise coming from outside. The sun was shinning but the snow was still falling. He opened the door only to be consumed by a loud cheering. The sound of the cheering was coming from the middle of town and it sounded like everyone was there. Curious, Brigham left the shed and Akira and traveled into town. Brigham was not concerned about being seen, because he figured everyone was in one spot. Nonetheless, through force of habit, he traveled through the alleys. The noise continued to get louder; he could hear a man yelling something. As he got closer her could just make out what he was saying over the crowd.

 “We must pick the fastest dogs to pull the sled from Pilgrim Springs here to Taylor. This race will act as a tool for such goal. Musher’s, get your dogs ready for the race, it will start in ten minuets.” Brigham’s ears perked and his body became stiff with excitement.  A race? I’m probably faster than any other dog is this town, but who would I be kidding if I thought they would let me in the race. Even if they let me in the race I’d never be let on the team. Brigham’s ears started to press against his head, and his body slouched. “You thinking of racing today eh?” Akira had snuck up on Brigham. He did not even notice her because he was so wrapped up in the race. “Uh… no…” Akira was surprised, “Why not? You’re quick to leave a helpless girl in a shed alone.” Brigham’s cheeks turned red as he suddenly became very embarrassed. “I.. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have left without telling you.” Brigham lowered his head even more than it was before. Akira smiled, “Oh clam down, I was just playing. I am glad that you left me soak your coat with my incessant crying.” She liked it? Brigham became happier by the second, but once again he got so excited he said something weird. “Oh it’s not issue at all, you can wet my coat any day.” Akira laughed, still needs some work. “Well thank you.” She walked up next to him so that her side was just touching his as she looked into the mass of people. “So are you gonna race or not?”

Brigham was undergoing an internal battle. Part of him wanted to race because part of him thought that he just might make the team. However, there was the other part of him that knew it was pointless. Akira could tell he was struggling with himself, so she said something that would help him decide. “You know you told me about how Aniu is always with you and how she has a plan for everything. Maybe she wants you to compete in the race, maybe this is the chance to do what you’ve been destined to do.” Brigham was speechless. He looked into her eyes and saw something very peculiar, for a moment he thought he saw the reflection of a raven. So this is proof that she’s the one Grandmother, but do you really want me to race? While he had been thinking Akira decided to do something she had wanted to do for a while. She leaned in quickly and kissed him. Brigham did not know what to do; he was surprised that she kissed him, but filled with euphoric bliss at the same time.

 The kiss was the perfect kiss, not too long, but not too short. It was filled with the right amount of passion so as not to become something more, but enough to show the feelings of the heart. After they kissed, she said, “Now you better win.” Brigham stood there with a look of pure joy on his face; he would have stood their motionless forever had it not been for the loud voice of the announcer. “Musher’s, line your dogs up and get set for the race. It will start in 5 minuets.” Brigham was still smiling from the kiss as he walked towards the race almost in a trance. As Brigham walked away, Akira let out a little scream of joy.  That was how it’s supposed to feel.

 Brigham recognized many of the dogs at the starting line. Most of them he knew were not nice dogs at all. Through his days wandering the alleyways and side streets, he observed the local dogs and was able to find out early that they aren’t too friendly. He had a couple run-ins with the locals, both human and canine, and every time they were far from cordial. He did not know any of the dogs by name but he knew their faces and that was enough. He managed to sneak into the line up with other twenty some dogs. Most of them were not paying attention because they were either licking themselves and or flirting with the girl dogs on the sidelines. One of those girl dogs was a familiar dog. Oh geez, Akira’s watching me… One of the dogs next to Brigham noticed him. “Who are you and what are you doing in the line?” Brigham turned quickly and saw someone that he shockingly knew. It took him only a second to recognize the dog who was speaking to him.

 “Nakota!?!” “Brigham! Whoa…. How?.... Wha?....” Brigham couldn’t believe that his only friend from the mining camp was here in Taylor. “I don’t know what to say either Nakota. How did you get here?” But before Nakota could answer, the announcer began talking again. “The race is about to begin, will everyone please leave the course.” Both of them looked at each other. “How bout we talk after the race Brigham?” “Five.” “Ok deal, don’t keep me waiting too long.” “Four.” “Hah, we will see who’s waiting at the finish line when I’m sitting down eating a nice, juicy bone.” “Three.” “Oh really? Hmmm lets wager a bone to the winner?” “Two.” “Its on.” “One, go!” The announcer shot his starting pistol in the air and the race began. Brigham and Nakota were the first off the line and were soon the only ones that were contenders for first place. They were racing each other and only each other. As they rounded the corner, Brigham and Nakota were neck and neck. They were running the fastest they could, just like when they were both in the mining camp. While Brigham was running his mind flashed back to when he was in the camp with Nakota.

After Brigham was abducted from Nome by the miners and taken to their camp, he was beaten into submission. He was taught to fear man and if he ever tried to escape he would be beaten and made to pull the heaviest sleds. The miners used the dogs to take the gold from the mine to the camps and then from there they would sell it. The miners kept the dogs in good condition if they behaved; this encouraged the dogs to obey. The fastest and most well behaved dogs would be treated the best. Brigham was a favorite from the start because of his wolf blood. His wolf side gave him more stamina and endurance, but Brigham never liked the miners. His first weeks were brutal because of his recurring disobedience. He soon became a favorite with the Miners but the other dogs began to grow annoyed by his increasing favor. He tried to be the best he could be where he was, even if he did not enjoy his life. He underwent many insults from the other dogs and more often than not, was forced to fight the other dogs. He had to learn how to defend himself at and early age and not trust anyone.

However, he did make one ally; Nakota, who was a husky and malamute mix, was one of the top dogs. He was also built for stamina and endurance like Brigham. He was muscular and extremely agile. His fur was a combination of brown and white. The brown covered the upper part of his body while the white underlined his stomach and legs. His eyes were the most unique part of him, one eye was a piercing blue color, and the other was an almost light grey color. Nakota was a year and a half when Brigham first came to the mining camp. But at first sight, he knew Brigham was different. Nakota was young still, so he naturally kept to himself, but after a couple months of witnessing the injustice that was occurring, he decided to intervene. Nakota became Brigham’s only friend and made it known that Brigham was not to be harmed anymore. The duo became the best of friends and continued to watch the others back. Nakota was actually the one who helped Brigham escape from the mining camp.

Nakota knew Brigham was destined for better things and that he did not deserve this horrible life. Even though it would mean the loss of his best friend, it was what was better for Brigham. Nakota devised a plan to help Brigham escape and when they had set it into motion, Nakota knew there was no turning back. Brigham did not understand then why Nakota had to stay, he felt that once again he was being abandoned. But now, Brigham understood why he had to go it on his own. He met Vira not too long after his escape; Aniu had it all planned out. And now here they were, the best of friends reunited and reliving the old days. Before Brigham knew it, the race was over and he was the victor.

They both breathed heavily attempting to catch their breath. “What happened Brig? You spaced out and just took off on a whole new speed level.” Brigham gasped for air as the other dogs finally crossed the finish line. “I don’t know, I guess I just zoned out, did I win?” Nakota laughed, “Not by much sport, I’m not that old. But yes you did win….” Brigham smirked, “Oh, if that’s the case, then I guess I get….” Nakota interrupted sarcastically “Yeah yeah, a nice juicy bone. Too bad I don’t have one. Awwwww.” Brigham pushed him jokingly. “It’s an IOU. I’m gonna remember this.” At that moment, Akira ran up to the two racers and hugged Brigham. “Well I guess that kiss helped.”

Nakota was surprised to see Akira hugging a guy let alone hearing about her kissing one. “So…. Akira has a new man I see?” Brigham should have been more surprised than he was that Nakota knew Akira and her past, but he was happier that she hugged him. “Well, not exactly,” he said. “We’re not official yet.” Akira smiled, “Not yet, maybe soon, and don’t worry about Nakota, he’s just jealous.” Akira and Nakota had a history, but luckily it was one that had ended mutually and without much drama. Nonetheless, Nakota took the opportunity to have some fun with the situation. “Ok Romeo and Juliet, time for sappy lubby dubby is later, the Musher is going to select the dogs for the team now.”

Brigham started to feel many different emotions at once. He was excited because he thought he would make the team considering he won the race, but at the same time he was nervous he would not be picked because of his appearance. He was worried, nervous, excited, happy, sad, and confused all at one time. Plus, it did not help that a human was approaching him. Akira began to get worried for Brigham, considering his last encounter with a human did not start so well.  As the musher approached, Nakota turned to Brigham, “Don’t worry, this musher’s one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. He’s nothing like the miners.” Brigham relaxed, alright grandmother, let’s see if this is in your plan. “Well well, Nakota you preformed just as a lead dog should, but who is this other dog? From what I saw, he beat you Nakota.” Nakota began to yip and wag his tail. “Friend of your I see, hmmm….” He turned to Brigham, who was on the verge of cowering but was managing to control his emotions. “You don’t look like you’re from around here, how did you end up in Taylor?” it was Akira who barked happily this time. “Oh Akira, did you seduce this young man into the town?” Akira licked the Musher’s hand and he patted her on the head. “Well, he looks like he’s got some wolf in em’” Brigham’s spirit lowered along with his head.

“Now now, I can’t have a member of my team getting all upset over nothing.” Brigham’s ears perked up, he jumped on the Musher and started to lick him. Akira and Nakota joined Brigham, which made the situation look less horrific. Seeing as many people just witnessed a wolfdog jump on a man, they were now reassured it was not as terrible as it seemed. The Musher laughed and attempted to speak, “Alright, let me up I haven’t finished speaking.” Once the dogs were off him, he continued. “Just cause you look like a wolf doesn’t mean I’m not gonna let’cha on my team. Everyone knows Wolfs are fantastic runners, built for endurance and speed.” Brigham barked in agreement. “However, Nakota still is the lead dog because he has earned it and has seniority. Nakota do you want Brigham on the team?” Nakota barked cheerfully and licked the Musher’s hand. “Hah, ok well then how bout you be behind Nakota. We just need a name for you. Let me look at’cha.” The Musher then examined Brigham’s body and bone structure. “Hmmm, I’d say something with a strong sound to it, but not to extreme. For some reason one name just keeps popping into my head. How about Brigham?” All three barked in agreement. “That’s already your name, haha, well I guessed right then. Welcome to the team Brigham.” All three dogs then jumped on the Musher again and began attacking him with licks and nuzzles.