The truth about Family  

Dedicated to my Nava, Michael O’Brien, a wonderful Granddad in whose front porch I started typing this story.           

   Heritage    

     Two days had passed since Alue left with the wolf pack, on a path high in the mountains Balto and Nava walked side by side. After Balto’s meeting with his mother he had begun his journey home. At dawn the following morning Balto had found Nava asleep in tree hallow. It was clear the events of past few days had furthered weakened the old wolf and that he would not survive long alone. Sitting together over a kill Balto made, Nava had listened to stories of Nome, showing particular interest in Rosie. At Balto’s invitation Nava had decided to journey with him to Nome in the hope of meeting her and potentially creating a new life for himself.

  “Rosanna[1] sounds a wonderful cub I look forward to meeting,” Nava said as they walked through the falling snow.

“She will love meeting you, she can understand us, I’m not quite sure how,” Balto replied. “My sister Aurora said it is part of her heritage, whatever that means, she told me when the time is right then she will explain.”[2]

“Aurora is Aniu’s cub who inherited her mother’s gifts, if she has said that then trust her wisdom,” Nava replied softly.

“I’ll trust what you say Nava, your instincts have proved right,” Balto replied as a long mournful howl full of sadness ripped through the air.

          Ahead of them sat outside a cave was Niju, his face streaked with tears, his eyes filled with pain. Seeing the pair approach the wolf looked at them sadly, no trace of anger or hatred in his eyes.

“I knew we would meet again nephew,” Nava said gently sitting down next to the black and blue wolf.

“Forgive me Uncle I was wrong in what I did, Balto on my honour I swear I never intended to kill Alue, I acted……..” Niju replied looking at the pair.

“Out of what you believed best for the pack, I cannot condemn you for that, others would have acted the same. You are forgiven Neju,” Nava replied placing a paw over his.

“If Nava can forgive you than so can I,” Balto replied taking a long hard look at the wolf. “Though I would like to know why the sudden change.”

“I had time to think over my reasons for what I did,” Niju replied turning to Nava. “I acted the way I did out of fear for being forced to leave, not being able to see Nada again.”

“I suspected as much nephew, your mother has left deep scars,” Nava sighted bitterly.

“Hold on, are you related?”

“Yes, Niju’s mother is my niece.”

“My pup hood was a bit of mess,” Niju sighted. “The fact I’ve turned out half decent is a miracle. If you like I can explain further.”

“I have been wondering about that, I can see a family resemblance. I did wonder why you acted as you did.”

“My Mother arrived at Uncle Nava’s pack pregnant and begging refuge after my grandfather threw her.” Niju began slowly. “Four months after my sister and I were born she vanished one night.”

“My niece was a young, vain and selfish creature who cared only for herself. It was I, my mate and my daughter and her mate who raised Niju and his sister Nada. But the damage had been done to both of them,” Nava replied, his voice laced with bitterness.

       Sitting listening to tale Balto could barely believe his ears. Having raised a family of his own his own it was hard for him to understand how a parent could leave their cubs. For the first time Balto saw through the facade Niju wore and saw the hurting cub underneath, one who feared being abandoned again.  

  “No cub should suffer that,” Balto replied softly. “What will you do now?”

“I’m not sure. What are your plans Uncle Nava?”

“Balto has invited me to Nome with him, his human friend Rosanna is protected by Aurora.”

“Aurora protects a human! Now that is strange,” Niju replied flicking his tail.

“Come with us to Nome, you can recover your strength there and have time to work out what you want to do,” Balto said turning to Niju.

“It will do you good to eat well Niju that land is plentiful of game.”

“Humans are the natural enemies of wolves, being around them fills me with fear.”

“I know places they don’t, you don’t have to come into town at all,” Balto replied.

“Then I’ll come with you, besides someone has to look after this old wolf.”

    Rest in Nome

     A week had passed since Alue left with the pack, standing on the hill above Nome, Balto, Niju and Nava looked watched as the townsfolk head home. Like shadows Nava and Niju headed to a small patch of woodland while Balto slipped into the town. Reaching Rosie’s house he found Jenna sat next to Rosie who was brushing her coat.

“Balto you’re back at last I was so worried, where is Alue?” Jenna asked looking at him.

“Jenna,” Balto begun hesitantly unsure how to tell her.

“Balto has something happened, where is Alue?” Jenna asked with fear in her voice and eyes.

“While we were out, we met a wolf pack who needed help,” Balto replied explaining the situation with Nava’s former pack. “Alue decided to go with them, she became pack leader. She told me tell you that she had found her home.”

    Tears fell from Jenna’s eyes as the news sunk in, her heart breaking at the thought she would not see her daughter again. At the same time she felt joy that Alue had found her place in the world.

“Is she happy Balto?”

“Yes, oh Jenna you should have seen her out there, she thrived living free, she belongs there,” Balto replied tenderly licking her cheek.

 “Alue always loved the wild Jenna, I think she will be happy,” Rosie replied, as Balto’s father Cathán arrived, his brown and grey coating shining in the evening sun.

“Balto back at last, Alue?”

“She chosen to live with a wolf pack,” Balto replied explaining the tale.

  “You saw Aniu again! After all this time, what happened….” Cathan replied shaking his head.

“Was fate my love,” Aniu said appearing suddenly.

       With tears shining their eyes Cathan, Balto and Aniu licked and nuzzled each other, reunited after so many years part.

“I am sorry for not coming sooner but things were destined to happen as such. I am not a mortal wolf but spirit, the chief wolf spirit of this land. I never stopped loving you Cathan, I would have come sooner but….”

 “None of that matters now Aniu, we are together again,” Cathan replied nuzzling her.

“I have missed both of you so much, not a day went by when I did not think about you.”

“Mom it’s alright, as long as we can be a family again that is what is important,” Balto replied smiling.

“Of course, I will not always be here but we will sea each other,” Aniu replied as the trio’s eyes flickered to Rosie and Jenna.

“Rosanna, I have heard much about you from Aurora, I am pleased to see you once again.”

 “Pleased to meet you Aniu,” Rosie replied politely, staring into her gold eyes. “It was you, the wolf I saw that night, you and Cathan came to the window!”

“Yes Rosanna it was I, you were very young, back then I did not realize the part you would play. You have a true heart child.”

“Thank you Aniu.”

“Jenna at last I can meet the one who won my son’s heart, you are a wonderful creature.”

“I am very pleased to meet you Aniu, Balto has told me a lot of stories from when he was a pup,” Jenna replied smiling happily.

     Sitting together the family chatted happily, broken bonds began to heal and new ones were formed. Later that evening they were joined by Balto and Jenna’s pups, all of whom were shocked to discover their spirit heritage and delighted to meet Aniu. News of Alue hit them hard yet when they understood it was for the best, they knew she never truly belonged in Nome.

“She is not gone from you, she knows her heritage fully, either myself or Aurora can bring messages to and from her,” Aniu said softly.

“That’s good,” Kodi replied wagging his tale. “I’m glad she’s happy.”

          The following day Rosie, Balto, Jenna and Kodi stood on a deserted section of beach away from town. Standing in front of them were Niju and Nava, the elder wolf appeared relaxed while Niju’s shifted nervously his amber eyes fixed on Rosie.

 “Niju, Nava allow me to introduce my mate Jenna, our son Kodi and Jenna’s owner Rosie,” Balto said walking over to the two wolves.

“I am pleased to meet all of you, you have the beauty of your daughter Jenna, Kodiak your sister spoke highly of you,” Nava said stepping forward.

“Thank you Nava,” Jenna replied softly, sadness in her heart.

“Pleased to meet you,” Kodi replied grinning.

“Hello, welcome to Nome,” Rosie replied holding out her hand.

“Rosanna it as an honour to meet you child,” Nava replied pushing his head up so it touched her hand.

     Remaining aloof Niju watched the interaction with a mixture of fear, amazement and curiosity. Having seen humans kill two pack members he had the wolf’s natural fear and hatred of humans, yet part of him felt drawn to Rosie. Young as she was Rosie was aware of Niju’s amber eyes, she smiled at him. Shocked at the reaction Niju snarled in confusion, unable to understand why he felt drawn to a human. Hearing the snarl Jenna turned and glared at him, her body language warning him not to hurt Rosie.

     Walking together Nava told the dogs about life in the wilderness in return hearing of their lives in Nome. Rosie and Kodi listened with curiosity, asking questions and in return answering Nava’s. Afternoon turned to evening, as the sun began to set on the horizon the group walked to the outskirts of the town. Stood waiting for them on next to Balto’s boat was Rosie’s father Arthur, seeing him, Nava and Niju tensed in fear.

“We will leave you here, until tomorrow farewell,” Nava said.

“Goodbye Nava it has been nice meeting you,” Rosie replied, stroking him before running over to her father.

“It has been a pleasure to meet you Nava,” Jenna said smiling. “Goodbye until tomorrow Balto.”

“Until tomorrow Jenna,” Balto replied licking her cheek.

            With a bark Jenna ran over to Rosie and Arthur, licking the latter’s hand and sharing a secret smile with Rosie. Walking away Arthur took hold of his daughter’s hand utterly oblivious to the watching wolves. Watching them go Niju felt an intense wave of hostility towards Arthur, regardless of any slight feelings of trust for Rosie, Neju was firmly hostile to the majority of humans.

         As the days passed Nava and Niju began to regain the weight and strength they had lost during the months of famine. Having secured the permission of the local wolf pack to hunt on their territory, Niju daily brought back fresh meat, with the occasional assistance of both Aniu and Cathán. Nava became firm friends with Cathan and Jenna’s father Fire, spending happy hours talking with them and letting them show him Nome.

    Watching Steel’s team return to town late one evening, Nava and Cathán stopped in their tracks, both clearly seeing the husky’s resemblance to Niju.

“LORD ABOVE!” Cathán exclaimed turning to his friend. “Steel looks Niju, the resemblance is uncanny.”

“Who is this Steel’s father? I trust you know,” Nava asked hesitantly.

“Unfortunately I know his father well, his father is called Iron a sled dog who looks like his son and is just as unpleasant.”

“Iron is a dog who pulls a human sled with others dogs.”

“Yes, one of the best,” Cathán replied turning to Nava. “You know this resemblance is more than just coincidence.”

“I do something I have not told Niju. If I tell you must promise not to tell him.”

“I promise.”

     Seeing the sincerity in Cathán’s eyes, Nava sighted heavily with the weight of the secret he carried. Yet knowing what was to come he had to find out as much as possible, especially when the one providing the information was unconnected to the secret.

“Niju’s feckless mother told me his father was a black and white husky called Iron, she then made me swear never to tell him,” Nava replied heavily.

“So it was true, those rumours years ago, about Iron having an affair with a wolf were true.”

“Rumours?”

“They raged for months, it was never clear how they began. If this happened then his sled team will have known. If Niju he comes into town every dog will see the resemblance. Balto has commented on it, he thinks coincidence but it will not be long before he thinks more.”

“I am bound by oath not to tell Niju, the fact is for his mother alone, even now I stand by that.”

“His mother sounds as horrible, cannot say I blame you for wanting to protect him.”

“I had little choice,” Nava replied turning to look out across the tundra. “But soon the truth will be known.”

       Sisters’ pack

     A month had passed since Nava and Niju had come to Nome, Niju had become good friends with Balto while Nava was starting to look and feel his age. After his initial hesitation Niju had warmed to Rosie yet he remained hostile to all other humans, avoiding entering the town unless absolutely necessary. Through conversation with Aniu, Niju knew the location of his niece’s pack, though he could not understand the smile the white wolf when she spoke of the pack, giving him the impression she was keeping something from him.

 “Balto, Uncle, it is time for me to say goodbye,” Niju said as he stood on near Balto’s boat.

“For now goodbye nephew, take care,” Nava replied nuzzling Niju.

“I will,” Niju replied turning to Rosie. “Rosie I never imagined I would become friends with a human.”

“I am glad we are friends Niju,” Rosie replied hugging him.

“I will see you again soon.”

“I’ll walk you out of town Niju,” Balto replied.

            The pair skirted around town in silence, avoiding the humans and sled teams which went to and from town. Walking to small patch of trees the pair stopped to look out across to the mountains.

    “Take care of Nava while I’m gone, recent events have taken their toll on him, he isn’t a young wolf anymore. I’m grateful for your hospitality.”

“It has been a pleasure; I’ll keep an eye of Nava.”

“When I’ve found Nada I will return, only Nava knows where my Mother’s pack lives, I will need his help. See you soon wolf dog.”

       In a swift bound Niju set off into the wilderness, his heart leaping at the prospect of reuniting with his sister. Through deep forests and across bleak tundra he travelled by night to avoid his fellow wolves, hunting at the edges of their territories and scavenging from kills. At times he encountered other lone wolves, some friendly and welcoming, others snarling and hostile. Joining for a while with some of those who were friendly Niju hunted with them and shared stories. With the knowledge of sledding he had gained from Balto and Kodi, he was able to avoid the major sled trails, always passing on this knowledge to any creature he met.

       Travelling alone for the first time in his life Niju thought about recent events. In the depth of the night he howled songs of pain and hurt, songs that broke the hearts of all who heard them.

    “What have I become? I acted out of belief that I could lead the pack to safety but there were more to my actions. I wanted to be pack leader for my own personal benefit. Others sided with me but I forgot my Uncle’s teaching about balance and respect for others. I nearly committed murder twice. .

     Strength with wisdom, cruelty and harshness when needed but a leader will always listen to the advice of others. My actions were cruel and ruthless, traits which have their place but a wolf cannot be those alone. I acted out of fear of losing the only home I had ever known.  

     Nada will not recognise the wolf I have become. Have I changed so much from the carefree pup I once was? I changed, changed when our Mother abandoned us, changed when I become an adult, changed when Nada left. I was always the fighter; Nava could always count on me to protect the boundaries; if harsh action or justice needed to be done I was the one who did it. I chose that role for myself. What will Nada think when she sees me?”        

        After weeks of travelling Niju at last entered the territory of his sister’s pack immediately catching the scent of a wolf. Standing still he watched as a white and brown female with Balto’s markings appeared out of the trees. Seeing his relaxed demeanour the she wolf visibly relaxed, as her eyes looked over his face. Cocking her head with curiosity she approached.

“Who are you stranger?” the she wolf asked.

“Niju, I don’t mean you any harm, I am searching for my sister Nada.”

“Nada is the alpha she wolf in my back, who is your uncle?”

“Nava.”

“Then you are welcome, I am Eagle, come I will take you to Nada,” Eagle replied with a wide smile.

    Walking through the territory Niju and Eagle walked in silence through the snow, Niju brimming with anticipation. Walking into a clearing his eyes landed immediately on his sister who was sat next to a grey and brown male with white markings around his eyes, clearly the alpha male. In an instant brother and sister were nuzzling and licking each other, tears of utter happiness shining in their amber eyes.

“Niju, what are you, why did you?” Nada stammered looking at her brother.

“Times have changed, there is so much to tell you.”

“Oh come and sit with me, you have to meet your nieces and nephews.”

       Soon Niju was surrounded by the pack, meeting Nada’s mate Arden, pack members Pukiq, Mat, Mist and his nieces and nephews. Less than a year old the pups were fascinated by Niju, listening to his tale of recent events with awe. As they listened to the tale Eagle and Arden stared at each other in utter shock as Niju described Balto’s part. 

“Things have changed more than I could ever have imagined,” Nada replied once the tale was finished.

“Neither of us could have, I’m grateful Balto was able to help,”

“Our bother was always had a kind heart,” Arden said speaking for the first time.

“BROTHER!” Niju gasped turning to face Arden and Eagle.

“That’s right, everything you said confirms it.”

“He was separated from us in a blizzard when we were young, we all though he died.”

“He made me very welcome,”

“As are you to this pack, a brother of Nada’s is always welcome here.”

        With a nod to one another brother and sister left the clearing together, walking out of the pack’s earshot. As they walked Nada examined her brother. He had changed much since she had last seen him both in looks and personality, an edge of cruelness and darkness that had not existed before, an edge that slightly frightened her. Yet it did not come as a complete surprise her, she had seen signs when they were cubs. Arriving at the river they stepped onto a large fallen tree that formed a bridge. The tree’s width was large enough of them to lie down on without fear of falling into the icy water below.

  “What do you really want here? When you spoke before……I could tell there was more to you visit then just seeing me?”

“Perceptive as always,” Niju replied smiling. “I want to…….no I need to find our Mother. When you left you said you intend to find her.”

“I never found her, I met Eagle then Arden joined us and the others came. What they spoke of…..Forming a new pack, a new family, they offered a chance to be part of a pack without feeling like an outsider. I realized it would be silly to leave to find a wolf who abandoned me when I was with wolves who were begging me to stay.”

“What about now?”

“Why now? I can understand the opportunity you have but?”

“I nearly become like her Nada! Her cruelty, uncaring nature, I nearly killed an innocent she wolf for trying to take what I believed to be my natural place as leader! I swore I would never become like her in any way……” Niju replied looking at his reflection. “I swear Nada in my blood there has to be something…..evil…”

       “You are nothing like her brother, the fact you even think you could proves you are not,” Nada replied heavily. “You are a fighter who can be relied upon to do what at times has to be done. Evil is a term that is subjective. You acted out in a way others would have in the same circumstances. You need to find peace Niju, whatever is missing in your life you need to find it.”

            Deep into the night brother and sister sat on the log reminiscing about their cub hood, sharing stories of adventures they had growing up in their uncle’s pack. At the same time they began to discuss how they would approach their mother. Words left unspoken for years passed between them, each seeing the lasting affects their mother’s actions had on their adult lives.

          The arrival of dawn the following morning found the pair returning to the pack. Over a meal of caribou late that evening the pair discussed their intents with the pack. While the cubs were shocked at the thought their mother was the leaving, the adults took the news calmly, understanding the deep emotional scars Nada carried.  

“Go with the blessing of the pack, we are strong, we will hold this territory,” Arden said nuzzling Nada.

“If you are going through Nome…….”Eagle began turning to her brother.

“Go with them Eagle if you want to, Balto is our brother and our Father is there, I would go with you if possible.”

“Thank you Arden,” Eagle sighed with relief. “I have to see them.”

 “I understand how important this is to you Eagle, you and Balto were almost inseparable as pups.”

“We will be a family travelling together,” Niju grinned.

           A few days later the trio left the pack’s land with tears of goodbye from the cubs, the youngest litter upset their mother was leaving despite their parent’s explanation.

“I hate to leave my darlings but I have to,” Nava whispered licking each one. “I have to find your Grandma.”

“Couldn’t you go some other time?” asked a little female.

“It has to be now while the pack is strong. I wish you could understand, if I find her I will be happier.”

“We understand Mom, go find what you need to, we’ll take care of things,” said a male.

“I will come back all of you I promise I will come back to you before spring arrives.”

         With a howl Eagle, Niju and Nada set off through the vast forest following Niju’s lead. Like ghost they skirted the territories of other packs, narrowly avoiding a fight with one pack as they passed through their territory one night. After the brief encounter they took extra care. As they travelled Eagle questioned Niju about her brother, keen to discover all she could.

       After weeks of travelling the trio crossed a section of frozen sea, in front of them was Nome. Throwing back his head Niju let out a howl that carried through the town, soon answered by two howls. Balto, Nava, Aniu and Cathán ran down onto the ice to meet them, Balto and Cathán skidding to halt the second their eyes landed on Eagle. Joyous howls filled the air as the families reunited the bonds as strong as they had once been. Together on the ice Eagle and Nada explained their connection, Cathán and Nava’s eyebrows shooting up on hearing about the pups.

“A Grandfather again, that does make me feel old,” Cathán chuckled.

“I am amazed at how much Arden has changed, he’s no longer the pack joker,” Balto replied.

“Not even I foresaw this,” Nava replied.

“Oh Arden and Nada were always destined to be together,” Aniu replied softly.

“Destined?” Nada asked turning to Aniu.

“Always, in all futures you and Arden were together.”

“I can believe that, they are perfect for each other,” Eagle said nuzzling her mother. “I am glad to be with you again, I never imagined I’d ever see you again.

“Neither did I Eagle,” Balto and Cathán said at the same time, causing both to laugh.

“The bonds of family never weaken no matter how much time has passed,” Nava said softly. “In a few days Niju, Nada and I will leave here.”

“I expected that,” Balto replied.

“I’m staying here until they return, I came to see you and Dad, I cannot wait to see the town,” Eagle replied nuzzling her brother.

“You will love it here.”

       As the sun set on the large family walked to Balto’s to boat to avoid prying eyes. Disappearing for a short time Balto returned Jenna and the four of their six pups who remained in town. With revelations coming left right and centre it was a late night for all concerned.   

       Betrayal of the Heart

           Over a month had passed since Nada, Niju and Nava had left Nome together, after a long and taxing journey they had reached the territory of Nava’s brother. Having left Nome early one morning they had travelled slowly for the sake of Nava, using their combined knowledge to travel through the harsh winter. The months of near starvation and his advanced age had taken their toll on old wolf. This had caused Nada and Niju constant worry, both fearing the journey may be too taxing for their uncle’s heath.

          “We are here, when we begin, what is started cannot be undone. What will be revealed will change your lives,” Nava said looking at them.

“You know more than you are telling us Uncle,” Nada said looking at Nava.

“I do but it is for your mother alone to explain. In my defence I never kept silent to hurt you.”

“I believe you Uncle, you always acted for the best,” Niju replied smiling. “No the responsibility is at our Mother’s door as humans would say.”

     Smiling Nava threw his head back in a long howl, calling brother I am here with your grand pups. After a few minutes a howl answered in reply, welcome brother I am coming. Out of the bushes an old male wolf with a dark brown body and streaks of blue emerged, his facing filled with pride and welcome, yet his eyes showing the slightest sight in trepidation.  Looking at Nava he stared as his eyes fell onto Niju and Nada

  “By Aniou this cannot be,” he said.

“They are Radka’s pups Taqukaq (Inuit for grizzly bear), as you are aware I took her in and I know she returned here.”

“They died,” Taqukaq replied shaking his head. “She told me they were all still born.”

“Two were yet as you can see Niju and Nada here are very much alive.”

“She begged forgiveness for her actions, swearing she sorry, a foolish mistake, she….”

“Abandoned them at four months old, disappearing on night without a word! She had to be told to feed them, when they tried to curl up next to her she would walk away, when they spoke she ignored them,” Nava replied, his voice filled with anger.

“I never imagined………I did not approve her actions and perhaps with hindsight I was too harsh in my judgment,” Taqukaq replied turning to face Niju and Nada. “I apologise for the wrongs I have committed against you, please accepted on old wolf’s apologies. In my defence I acted out of a belief I was doing what was right for my pack.”

      Turning to face each other Niju and Nada exchanged a look, one which said all that need to between them. Steadily they walked over to their grandfather and nuzzled him, their tails wagging.

“I forgive you, others would have done the same in your position, what she did was rebellion,” Nada whispered licking his cheek.

“Thereby breaking pack law of the highest kind, insubordination of that kind cannot be tolerated, especially from the daughter of the pack leader,” Niju replied nodding.

 “Come, Radka must face her responsibilities.”

         Walking through the forest Taqukaq led the trio to a large clearing where the pack was relaxing. Seeing the trio the air tensed briefly before relaxing once they saw the relaxed smile on their leaders face. Some of the older wolves greeted Nava happily having met him on past occasions. Lying surrounded by pups born that year was a female with light blue fur and brown fur. Seeing them her eyes darkened, their gazed locked on Nava.

“You know who they are daughter, I will allow you privacy, come,” Taqukaq whispered.

     Reluctantly Radka followed them out of the clearing, far out of the hearing of the other wolves. As they walked Niju and Nada watched their mother, struggling to place the wolf before them with the one they remembered vaguely. Stopping at last in a dense patch of forest the group turned to face one another.  

     “So you betrayed me Uncle, I thought you were better than that,” Radka spat glaring at Nava.

“I swore to protect and raise your cubs only. They wished to know the truth so I have brought them here,” Nava snapped icily in reply.

“Traitor, you know what I wanted, what I said.”

“What you wanted doesn’t matter.”

“Nava has told me the truth daughter, you deceived me in a way I never thought possible,” Taqukaq snarled.

“I made a mistake that I had to fix.”

“Is that all we are, mistakes?” Nada asked looking at her mother.

“That is all,”

“I cannot believe you are our mother,” Niju gasped. “Did you ever love us at all?”

 “I never wanted you, I forgot about you once my father accepted me back,” Radka replied calmly

       At this the assembled group looked at each other in a mixture of disgust, disbelief and raw anger. Hearing the words pain shot through Nada, tears falling from her eyes as the rejection hit home. Seeing his sisters tears Niju felt an almost blinding rage in his veins, his sister’s tears hurting as much as a knife. The two older wolves just gazed at Radka in utter disbelief. Having seen Radka lavish care and attention on her pups within the pack, Tanqukaq could barely comprehend what he was hearing.

     “You wicked…………Who is our father?” Niju snapped averting his eyes in disgust.

“You do not want to know,” Radka replied, her eyes flashing dangerously.

“Tell them daughter or I will, that is an order from your pack leader,” Tanqukaq snarled slashing his daughter across the shoulder.

“As wish. Your Grandfather had driven a male loner I’d liked away from the pack, saying he wasn’t good enough for me. So I felt angry by the restrictions placed on me, I just wanted to get back at him, show I wasn’t a cub and that I wasn’t scared of him. I rebelled…………I spent more and more time way from the pack, it annoyed my parents but not enough for me.”

“So you mated with a rogue wolf,” Nada chipped in. “Too annoy your father.”

“Oh I did far worse, see a dog sled trail runs through the land and there are a few cabins where the humans sleep.”

“A check point,” Niju inputted.

“Whatever. One day I pass it and I meet this dog team relaxing, a large black and white male sees me, we get into a fight and I win. That impressed him……..” Radka smirked as looks of shock appeared on Nada and Niju’s faces.

“His name was Iron and he is your daddy.”

 “What!” Nada and Niju cried in disbelief.

      “Granddaddy didn’t force me out because I was pregnant he forced me out because I was pregnant by a dog. See I was caught with Iron by an owl friend of the pack who told Mummy and Daddy what a naughty girl I had been,” Radka laughed cruelly.

“I was disgusted at what she had done,” Tanqukaq looking at the pair. “Had your parents loved each emotionally I may have been lenient, despite my own feelings I could have respected an emotional bond. The fact it meant nothing was a step too far. I did what I deemed necessary. I knew that would run to Nava’s pack or would find sanctuary with another pack or join other lone wolves.”

“Do our half brothers and sisters know?” Nada asked through tears.

“Don’t be foolish, of course they don’t and they never will. As far I am concerned you do not exist.”

“You callous cold hearted…. All my life I imagined you had left us for our own good, that there was some reason why you had a leave us,” Nada sobbed in pain. “I could never treat my cubs……even leaving them for such a short period to come here is painful.”

“You cold hearted creature,” Niju snarled his eyes blazing with anger. “From this day is sever all ties with you, you are no longer my mother. Nava’s mate and daughter deserve that title, they raised Nada and I to be true wolves. “

     Turning on their heels Niju and Nada walked away from Radka with Nava and Tanqukaq, the older wolves shooting disappointed and angry glares at her. Stopping next to a pool the older wolves looked at youngster.

   “My sincerest apologies for what…….” Tanqukaq began.

“There is nothing to apologise for, Radka made a choice,” Nada whispered while Niju nodded in agreement.

“You are both fine young wolves I am pleased to have met you. Brother thank you for all you have done for them.”

“I was my pleasure brother,” Nava replied turning to his niece and nephew.

“Grandfather it has been a pleasure, it is time we left.”

“Goodbye and goof luck to you all.”

       In a bound Niju, Nada and Nava set off through the forest into the sunset, running until they had left Radka and her pack’s territory. Skidding to a halt on a hill they looked down across the tundra.

“Now it is time I revealed one final secret,” Nava said panting. “Balto’s father knows your father and you have half sibling on his side, one of whom is Steel.”

“I cannot say I’m surprised, well then back to Nome, Nada are you?”

“Of course I want to see this through to the end.”

                Father’s Transgression

      A month had passed since Nava, Niju and Nada had left Radka’s pack, three days previously they had returned to Nome. Sitting with Balto, Cathan, Boris and Kodi they chatted about what had happened.

  “I knew Iron in his racing days, he saw wolves as dirt but he was hypocritical and egoistic enough to mate with one while away from home. He no doubt though his team would keep silent, however the fact there was another team there explains how the rumours of such an affair surfaced,” Cathan said softly.

“Iron is in town for a major race, dogs who saw you last time have commented on the similarities between you and Steel.”

“I want to meet him, he needs to face the consequences of answer his actions. I need to understand what characteristics I have inherited from him.”

“I know Iron’s temperament. Don’t confront him alone, do it while I am there, it could turn nasty,” Balto replied.

“That goes for me as well,” Cathan snarled. “I still owe him for attacking you son.”

“I do not fear a dog, no dog can match a wolf in a fight,” Niju replied with pride.

           At that moment Eagle walked onto the boat with Jenna, both shocked at what they had heard.

“Steel will not like this he hates wolves. If you Steel he will attack you, he has friends who will support him,” Jenna said nervously.

“That dog wouldn’t stand a chance against three wolves,” Eagle chipped in. “Nor would any dog.”

“Be careful none the less,” Cathan replied. “Anything could happen.”

        A couple of days later Balto, Cathan and Niju at the side of the race track, watching as the winners were announced. Iron’s team had come fourth, beaten to the top stop by Steel’s team. Iron was in the twilight of his career and was due to retire at the end of the season.  As Iron passed by them Cathan stepped forward.

“We need to talk to you in private,”

“I was under the impression we were not speaking,” Iron replied turning around.

“A rumour once did the rounds regarding you and a wolf, I know the truth, so unless you want everyone to……” Cathan snapped.

       The colour drained from Iron’s face as his eyes fell on Niju’s, his eyes widening in shock at the clear similarities. Without a word he followed Balto, Niju and Cathan to an alley that ran behind the hospital where Nada stood waiting. Instantly the Iron’s remaining colour drained from his face, while Niju took after Iron, Nada took after Radka.

“Hello Father, I am your daughter Nada you have met my brother Niju,” Nada said stepping forward.

“Radka that little…” Iron snarled.

“Yes our Mother, never dreamed you would have wolf pups did you?” Niju asked glaring at his father.

“No I did not, I never wish to see you again.”

“You disregard us easily.”

“You are a liability, a scandal waiting to happen.”

“What will Steel think when he finds out?” Nada asked glaring at Iron.

“He will not find out!”

“I wouldn’t be too sure of that Iron, I would say Steel deserved to know,” Balto said, speaking for the first time.

“You will not tell him you filthy half breed,” Iron snarled lunging at Balto.

      Seconds later Iron found himself pinned to the floor with a furious Nada and Niju looking down at him, their amber eyes glowing with rage. Calmly Niju yawed, showing of his white, pointed teeth.

“NEVER TOUCH BALTO AGAIN,” Niju snarled. “He is worth a hundred of you, he is family.”

“No he is not!” Iron gasped.

“Oh he is, his brother is my mate, his sister is in my pack. We know what damage you inflicted on him when he was younger, consider yourself we have not done the same to   you,” Nada snapped.[3].

       Iron’s eyes widened at their words, the confident looks in the wolves eyes and air of danger around Niju surprised him. Struggling to his paws Iron backed out of the ally, only facing forwards once he was clear. In front of him he saw Steel lounging on a barrel, seeing his father Steel calmly walked over. Just as the pair greeted each other Niju appeared, instantly Steel’s eyes widened as he instantly saw the resemblance.

“Hello brother,” Niju said calmly.

“You dare wolf even suggest such a thing?” Steel snarled in rage.

“Well half brother technically, didn’t Daddy ever tell you he had a relationship with a wolf?”

“LIES! All filthy lies spread by a filthy wolf,” Steel spat.

“Really?” Niju asked lifting an eyebrow. “Ask him yourself.”

         Turning to face his father Steel looked at him directly as Balto and the others appeared out of the ally. Looking at his son Iron sighed heavily, resentment and embarrassment in his eyes.

“In my youth I made the mistake of dating a she wolf while staying at a check point. Our musher was seriously ill and I was under a lot of stress causing me not think clearly. I regret my actions now.”

“I cannot imagine why you would ……but given the circumstances understandable,” Steel replied with mild understanding.

“A prime example of what I have always told you about wolves Steel, they are not to be trusted.”

“Get out of here wolf,” Steel snarled glaring at Niju.

  “You are both cruel and arrogant dogs with no code of honour, certain wolf packs would treat you just as you treat us,” Nada shouted running over.

“Who gave you permission to speak?”

“I am you sister.”

“You are both half breed dirt who are a disgrace and do not belong here.”

         Seeing the tension brimming between the dogs and wolves Nava walked slowly towards them, placing himself between Steel and Nada.

“They have claim to this town by their dog blood, you forget that one of mixed blood saved the place you call home. Accept the fact they are part of your family, let this be an opportunity to put aside past prejudices.”

“Do not dare speak to us old wolf,” Steel snarled.

    In a flash of utter anger at being addressed by Nava, Steel lunged at Nava sending him tumbling to the floor. Seeing his uncle’s pain cold rage ripped through Niju’s blood, in a swift movement he attacked Steel. The sounds of the fight brought the town dogs running, some immediately jumping to Steel’s aid. Eagle, Balto and Nada instantly joined the fight. Standing on the sidelines Iron and Cathan watched with horror as their children fought. Fear ran though the watching dogs, most had never seen wolves fight but all were aware of how strong Steel was, with many remembering seeing parallels with the time Iron attacked Balto as a pup. In that fight Steel had tried to defend his then friend but had suffered a beating, it was after that fight the friendship between the pair had ended.[4] Now history had come full circle as Balto fought against Steel in town.

      With a gap of pain Steel floor, his body covered in cuts that bleed onto the snow. The dogs gasped as Niju placed a paw on the throat of the defeated husky; the dogs that had joined Steel stood shaking in fear having been beaten by the wolves. The watchers held their breath as the scene unfolded, each aware of what could happen.

  “You should not have attacked my Uncle; in pack circles I would have the right to kill you for attacking a pack leader.” Nijiu hissed. “We are very alike brother, we both ignored Balto’s advice but only I had the wisdom to see the foolishness in my actions.”

“You and that wolf dog are worthless scum, we are nothing alike,” Steel hissed.

“Balto is worth ten of you, to think you and he used to be friends. I learned the hard way where my arrogance, blindness and cruelty got me. We are alike brother more than you realise, but compared to me you are weak and unwilling to change.”

“I have no need to change you wolf scum. Now let me up before, I am at the top of the social ladder; this is social suicide if you have any hope of living here.”

“Mistake number three Steel, I don’t care what “society” thinks in the slightest. I am a wolf wild and free, I have no intention of living in this town.”

   Looking up Niju saw the worried faces of the watchers, fear showing on those of Iron, Cathan and Balto, all wondering what Niju would do not. Smirking Niju raised his head and howled.

“ALL OF YOU HEAR THIS. I AM NIJU HALF BROTHER OF STEEL THROUGH THE SLED DOG IRON. YOU ALL SEE HOW SIMILAR WE LOOOK, ON MY OATH I SWEAR THIS FACT AS TRUE!”

    The watchers gasped with utter shock, their eyes immediately turning to face Iron, unable to believe what they had heard.

“The wolf is telling the truth,” Iron sighted his eyes glowing with rage.

        Instantly babble broke out among the dogs while Steel looked up at Niju aghast, the husky had been expecting his half brother to use his position for some form of physical attack. The fact he had misjudged the situation entirely was a huge shock, that and the fact he had not been able to read Niju’s emotions. For the first time in years Steel felt afraid of another creature, he had not been beaten in a fight since he was a pup. Gazing at his brother properly for the first time, Steel saw a confident, strong, loyal wolf with a ruthless edge and an air of danger.

  “I am going to let you up Steel, I did not want to fight but you forced my paws,” Niju said stepping off the husky.

       Leaving the circle Steel avoided his brother’s eye, walking calmly over to his father and his friends. The dogs greeted him with wagging tails while Iron looked over his injuries. Standing in the circle Balto, Nada, Eagle and Niju looked around at the dogs who had cheered them on during the fight. Star, Nikki, Kaltag, Kodi and many others believed Steel had been served his just deserts.

      The circle of dogs broke up as human’s shouts drifted through the night, the last thing any of them wanted was for their owners to know the full details. In a flash the wolves bounded away down the side streets melting into the night. Leaving town they grinned at each other, letting out howls of utter excitement and joy as they raced through the snow. Skidding to a halt at the edge out on the sea ice they jumped on each other playfully, releasing the tension.

 “That was amazing, I’ve never seen Steel scared for anyone in years,” Balto laughed grinning from ear to ear.

“Well then I’ve done everyone a favour, he needs to learn what I did. Besides he’s lucky I let him off lightly.”

“That was what you call light?” Balto asked raising his eyebrows.

“Listen Balto in a pack setting a wolf would be killed for attacking a leader or at the very least thrown out,” Eagle replied.

“You guys have changed things here for good with that, now the entire town knows about the relationship.”

“That pair forced our paws,” Nada snapped angrily as Cathan, Nava, Jenna and Aniu joined them.

  “Well we can safely call that a fiasco,” Cathan said matter of fact lie. “They will never forgive or forget what you have done.”

“We don’t need their forgiveness,” Nada replied coolly. “All I want now is to return to my pack.”

“I got the truth,” Niju replied, turning to face his uncle. “I don’t regret the fight.”

  “Where will you go now?” Balto asked his voice full of concern.

“With Nava and Nada, I’m not losing my sister again.”

“I knew you would say that Niju, the pack will be glad of your help and my pups will be delighted,” Nada said smiling.

“Another pack member is always usefully especially one related to another member,” Eagle said wisely.

“The past is laid to rest at last no more secrets, at last I can living in peace,” Nava sighted.

  “Everything seems to have worked out for the best,” Jenna replied smiling. “Balto is everything ok?”

“Fine, I just…..Eagle could you pass on a message to Arden?”

“I have a better idea,” Eagle replied, placing her right paw on top of her brother’s. “I know Arden would love to see you, come back with us, at least for a little while.”

“Seriously? Do you think I would be welcomed?”

“Arden would have come with us, the pack always welcomes family of members, Dad the invitation is open to you as well.”

“I would love that daughter,” Cathan replied softly.

“I will join you,” Aniu replied smiling. “We can be a family once more.”

“Well count me in,” Balto replied grinning from ear to ear.

    Smiling at each other the group began to talk excitedly about their trip, Jenna and Balto sharing an understanding smile. Soon two broken families would at last be reunited and past scars allowed to heal.

    Prologue: Family reunited 

         A month has passed since Niju’s fight with Steel, at the edge Nada’s pack’s territory, Nada and her friends stood calmly. With a nod Nada led them across the border line, leading them through well known paths. Reaching a frozen river joyous howls filtered through the air. Instantly the group stopped, their eyes sparking with joy as they howled kin reply. Out of the undergrowth Arden and his pack appeared, seeing the group he skidded to a halt.

“D Dad……Balto!” he gasped in utter disbelief.

“In the fur son,” Cathan replied.

          Instantly the groups merged, greeting each other with joyous gips and licks. Meeting their grandparents and uncle Balto for the first time the pups were shy, soon coming out of their shells slowly. Meeting the group for the first time the pack members were friendly and welcoming, with a she wolf called Mist taking particular interest in Balto and Niju. For his part Balto was friendly, finding her sly and slightly at odds with his own personality. Shaking his head he walked over to where his brother and parents sat talking.

“I see Mist has taken a, interest in you and Niju,” Arden said casually.

“I have a girl brother, besides we are far too different, I cannot understand why she would be interested in me.”

“Had events gone another way you and Mist would be together,” Aniu replied mysteriously.

 “Are you being serious?” Balto replied, his eyebrows raised. “I cannot see how or what would bring that about.”

“Deadly serious, events can always go another way,” Aniu smiled.

“I swear this is going to take some getting used to, mother is a spirit, half sisters are spirits,” Arden replied shooting a glare at his mother. “Will we get to meet our half sisters Aurora and Valeria?”

“Aurora you will meet soon, Valeria in time,” Aniu replied as Eagle and Cathan joined them.

“She has her own life, we both know that Mother,” Aurora replied appearing out of thin air.

            The pack nearly jumped out of their fur in fright, some muttering curses in annoyance at the shock. Aniu, Aurora and Valeria were worshiped by the wolves of Alaska and Canada yet it was rare to see them in person. Seeing his white sister Balto smiled, he had grown close to her over the recent year through her connection to Rosie.

“Balto it is good to see you,” Aurora replied sitting down. “At last we are family again, now all the secrets are in the open.”

“It’s been a shock,” Arden replied smiling.

       As the sun set on the pack gathered together to near the river, raising their heads they howled, their song carrying for miles. They sang of happiness, family and freedom.