It had been ages since breakfast, and Balto was still foraging. Unfortunately there were no scraps to be found in the bins.

Balto sighed, although he was a hero, he still couldn't find an easier way to find food.

As he walked past the telegraphers office, Balto spotted seven strong brown-and-white Eskimo dogs eating ravenously from their bowls of meat. Balto's mouth watered. Maybe they would share their meal with him. He was about to ask when he suddenly heard a sharp crack! He felt a stinging pain on his hind-quarters. Balto yelped and turned round. An angry looking man holding a large whip was glaring sternly at him.

The man raised his whip and was about to slash at Balto again when somebody cought hold of his wrist. It was the manager of Nome's General Store, who had heard Balto's yelp and run out to see what was happening. Balto sighed with relief. Saved. The manager asked the stranger what was going on.

The man replied roughly: 'That mutt was about to attack my dogs.'Balto felt uncomfortable. He'd realised that everyone in the street was acknowledging the scene.

The manager explained to the man that Balto had never harmed anything or anyone, without good reason, in his life. But the cruel man laughed and said that the next time he saw Balto near his dogs again, he would hit much harder! With that the man left.

'Be careful next time, boy,' the man said, taking out a biscuit from his pocket. Balto barked madly as the manager held the food up and tossed it into the air. Balto leapt up and caught his treat, but misjudged his landing and crashed into some nearby bins.

Trash rained down on him. Balto shook off a newspaper that had landed on his head

Frowning, Balto picked up his meal.''Better then nothing, I suppose.'' he said to himself.''I promised Jenna I would visit her after sun-up.''

Had he had not been in a hurry, Balto would have seen on the headline a picture of his worst enemy. Printed in black and white it said...

She dreamed she saw a dog-team, pulling a sled a though a storm. The lead-dog was a dark brown male. Aleu looked at him closely and saw, to her amazement that it was her father. The weather changed in the dream. Snow started to fall lighter, but still swiftly. Aleu's vision became white and all she could see was snow. A loud thundering, clattering sound, that made Aleu's ears ache, was heard. It was like a vast cliff crumbling and collapsing. With it was loud howl. Aleu's heart stopped beating...

Aleu awoke. She was in her chamber, in the pack's cave. The wolf who awakend her was black she-wolf called Sleath (who was a good friend of hers). Aleu sat up. She'd over-slept!

'Has the hunting party left?' she asked. A plentiful herd of caribou had been living in the pine-tree forests since the beginning of winter. Aleu had announced once to her pack that one day she would lead a large hunting-party there to take down as many caribou, so to feed the pack well enough.

Sleath nodded. 'They left a short while ago, just before the snow stopped,' she informed. Aleu's eyes narrowed.

Thaze, a dull-witted wolf, was taking control of her pack. He had been stirring up trouble longer than she could remember. Aleu wasn't going to let him take over the hunt while she was still awake. Quickly, she asked Sleath which way they went.

Aleu's jaw dropped. The Rock Valley, a route between high cliffs which were presently blanketed with heavy snow, was a dangerous way to go. Aleu rarely led hunting parties into it, because any loud noise might cause an avalanche. Why was Thaze leading the hunt there? She nodded to Sleath, and ran out of the cave. Outside, the rest of the pack, those who had not joined the hunt, were up and about, some talking, others were grooming themselves or each other. Aleu walked silently and casually. She didn't want to cause any unnecessary excitement, if any excitement. She tried to look calm, until out of sight, then picked up speed and charged towards Rock Valley.

When Aleu reached the top of the stoney canyon, with a terrible feeling, she found the hunting party had already entered. No wolf was in sight. She sniffed the ground. The South path was freshly dotted with paw-prints. Very slowly, Aleu walked along the pathway. She looked up at the the cliffs either side of her. They were tall, and the snow atop them was so thick, about one-and-a-half metres deep. Aleu stopped and looked around. Everything was quite. She went on.

Suddenly she heard a loud yelp, and cringing, saw little bits of snow fall from above her. Aleu darted forward, and soon she spotted the hunting party, huddled up together, looking anxiously at two male wolves, one being the slow-minded, brown-furred Thaze, the other an older, dark red wolf, named Hanler. They were facing each other, snapping at eachother's shoulders. More snow fell and thudded to the ground around them.

Quickly Aleu ran forwards. She took no notice of the gasps of relief from the wolves behind her but leapt skillfully and pinned Thaze to the ground. Hanler backed away. Aleu gave Thaze an unrestrainable snarl,

'Do you want to kill yourselves? What do you think your doing?' she hissed. Thaze just stared at her. Alue turned to the others, 'What happend here?' she asked. A she-wolf came up to her.

'Thaze wanted us to pass through the valley. Hanler tried to talk him out of it. We got this far, then Thaze attacked Hanler.'

Aleu glanced upwards. The snow on the cliff tops was starting to slip in great quantities into the valley! She let go of Thaze. 'Move!' she called to the group. They turned tail and ran back the way they had come from, Aleu in the lead. The drifts were cascading down now, hitting the valley floor, and a gradually growing wave was following the retreating wolves. Aleu gasped as she looked back at them. It wouldn't be long before the snow would be on top of them.

'Faster!' she panted to her group, then she looked back again and saw to her horror that Hanler was slowing down. He had been wounded badly; Thaze had obviously dealt him a blow to a leg, causing him to limp. She hadn't realised he was hurt. Aleu stopped running, causing the grey she-wolf to bump into her. Quickly, Aleu pushed the she-wolf infront of her and yelled, 'Lead the pack out! Now!', before running back back to help Hanler. The snow was coursing down the Rock Valley.

Hanler shook his head feebly as Alue approached. 'No, get back!' he said. She grabbed his scruff and began hauling him along. The avalanche was now less than sixteen metres away. Hanler, slowly rised up and murmered in Aleu's ear.

'You've shown great courage since you joined us. May the pack agree with me.'With those words, he let himself drop to the ground.

Grief-stricken, Aleu spun around and bounded towards the enterance of Rock Valley. As she neared it, the others were already there, and they scattered when they saw the avalanche coming. Aleu made a final leap, out of Rock Valley. Behind her, the avalanche rolled to a loud stop. Then stopped and rested.

Aleu hardly heard them. Feebly she got up and staggered over to the huge pile of snow potruding from the valley enterance. The Rock Valley was blocked up completely. Every wolf mourned for Hanler sadly, every wolf except Thaze, who stood with an unreadable expression in his face. Aleu, shaking her head, walked up to the obstructed ravine. Hanler could not have survived this. Aleu stared up at the sky.

'Hanler!' She cried. The wind blew coldly, and swirled snow-flakes into the air. Aleu heard it, and it moaned like the howl of a lonely, lost wolf.

Dipsy and Mel, were huddling next to the boat. Dipsy was digging into a sack full of biscuits, while Mel was lying down, paws on top of his head, muttering out-loud.

'What I'm I going tell him!' he muttered. Dipsy didn't answer, 'What am I going to tell Balto?'

Dipsy pulled her head out of the bag as Mel ran over to where Balto, Jenna and Boris were standing. 'There's been a report from Anchorage!' he gasped.'The humans are setting up a Trail Run for the end of this season! It's to be held next week!'

Balto and Jenna looked at each other. Boris rubbed his head with his wing, thoughtfully. 'Ay, yes. So what?' he enquired.

'They've asked Koyuk to set up the the starting line...!' He glanced at Balto, 'Everyone in Alaska knows about how you saved the children and won the race against the Bush Plane. Now they want you to lead a team to Anchorage from Koyuk!' Balto stared at him, speechlessly. Boris and Jenna looked aghast. 'They planned it long ago,' Mel went on, 'Anchorage also said that all the fastest and strongest dogs must join into three teams.'

Balto nodded. Then without another word, he turned towards the snowy bay. Jenna, Mel and Dipsy looked after him.

Balto sat down on the sand and watched the seagulls glide in the sky. How free and peaceful they seem, Balto thought, As if nothing could disturb them. He sighed enviously. How wonderful it would be to be like the seagull, born, celebrated as a new arrival, then slowly forgotten. Balto's fame due to his heroic act fetching the surum medicine hung over his life like a dark cloud. He wished he were free from it. He felt...almost used. As he walked slowly across the beach, some fishermen who were mending their nets, looked up at him and started talking quietly about something. Balto couldn't hear what thay were saying, but he hoped the conversation wasn't about him.

Aleu gave a shuddering sigh as she looked down at her pack. She stood on the summit of a small rock pile. Eyes that were clouded with pain gazed dully back up at her. Thaze, guarded by Sleath and an amber-furred male wolf, sat submissively with head low. Aleu glared at him meaningfully, before turning to her pack. 'My Brothers and Sisters. I haven't been your leader for very long. Yet you have helped me and treated me like a sister, so I already feel at home in this pack. I feel I am truly part of it. And I mourn with you at the death of a reliable pack member.'

She glared at the witless Thaze. 'Thaze. You have disobeyed me,' she went on, 'You led the hunting party without permission and attacked a fellow pack member! Why? Anyone would think you were leading this pack yourself.'

All eyes flickered from Aleu to Thaze, wondering how would he respond. Still sitting, Thaze stared at his leader; his look of submissiveness had changed to fury.

'He was willing to take over this pack before you came,' Thaze went on. Hhis guards snarled, but Thaze ignored them, 'You had no liberty to just come along and become our leader. You weren't born among us!'

'My destiny,' Aleu put in, 'was foretold me, to leave my family and lead you. If I hadn't, you would never have survived.' With these words Thaze sprang up at her with open jaws. Sleath and another wolf pushed him down quickly. He howled.

'I would rather follow another wolf, than you! Arrrrk!!!' Sleath swiftly nipped him, subduing him to silence. The pack were backing away, whispering. Only Aleu didn't move. She was thinking. Thaze was reluctant to live under her leadership, meaning he would have to leave the island.

Thaze lay glaring up at Aleu, under the paws of his handlers. 'I always mean what I say!' he growled.

Before the sun started to sink behind the horizon, the whole pack was standing on the beach, awaiting the departure of their pack-member. Thaze stood before them all, looking grimly at the sea.

Standing up, Aleu paced the shore, 'You lived and hunted with us once. Now it is time you must leave...' she turned to him, 'anything further to say?'

Aleu nodded. 'Then go.' Thaze shot her a look. Then he stepped into the water, slowly but without any sign of hesitation. The pack watched. Thaze waded on until the sea was up to his flanks, then he started to paddle. When he was a mile away from the shore, Thaze quickened. He swam with all his power. Everyone watched until he was less than a little black dot on the blue-green distance. Then he vanished.

Thaze was forgotten almost instantly that evening as Aleu ordered her pack to meet next to the drinking pool, near their cave.

'I called you here to discuss another matter. Hanler. He shall be remembered and respected for the great bravery he showed. And know it's time to pray for him.' The pack sat silent as there leader started the traditional words spoken at the death of a pack-member.

'Spirits of the pack. Hanler, our brave, wise brother has left us. His soul has left his body to join you. We mourn for him deeply. He has been a great friend and a loyal pack-member.' The moon shone brightly as Aleu finished her words. It's glow made the pool ripple with a glow, white as snow freshly fallen. The whole pack wimpered as they gazed into the water. Then they all turned away to sleep.

Aleu hoped that Thaze had managed to cross the sea to the old clan's home. I was true he had made a trecherous move. But he was still a fellow wolf, and she couldn't help worrying about him.

That night after the meeting, Aleu sat in the cave surrounded by her pack, who were all sleeping. Before laying down, Aleu pondered about the day's activities. So much had happened.

Dark clouds, massed in the skies, looked red as dusk fell. On a cliff, Aleu could see two dogs facing each other. One she recognized as her father, the other was a black an white Alasken Malamute.

Near them was a sled, onto which was roped a box. Around them a whole team of dogs stood. They wheren't the team Aleu had seen in her last dream.

She watched as her father, looking much younger than how she remembered him, tried to reach for the box, but was blocked by his adversary.'Steele' Her father said calmly.' Let me help you.' He was answered by a terrible growl.

Balto walked to the sled, then Steele suddenly sprang in front of him and pushed the sled over to one side. They fought...

Suddenly Steele grabbed Balto by a back leg and swung him. He let go. Balto hit a jutting rock with a loud thump.

Aleu gasped and leapt forwards to confront Steele before he did something else. But the dream was already pulling her away. However hard she tried to tear away from it, it tugged the hardest. Aleu looked back helplessly at the vision again. Her father was very still.

When morning came, the pack watched with suprise as Aleu climbed back up the rock-pile, looking worried. Last night she had managed to decipher the meaning of her dreams.

Aleu waited as the pack gathered 'round the rocks. She cleared all thoughts before speaking. ' My Brothers and Sisters. I have received dreams from our spirit ancestors. Dreams that tell me of both the past and future. They have shown me of my father, Balto. He is in great trouble.' The wolves glanced at each other, ' He's in need of my help. I must go and find him. And help him.'

'Stop!' The protests died down and everyone turned to see who'd spoken. It was Sleath, 'Why remind our Alpha about the Laws of the Pack? Aleu is loyal! But she wants to help her family. Her father is a friend to us too. It was said he was ready to guide us over the sea to this island before his daughter stepped in for him.' The pack were silent.

'Thank you, Sleath,' Aleu said. Sleath bowed. Aleu gazed long down at the pack, 'I understand your fear in me leaving you. But I'll shall return. I promise, with all my heart.' This comforted them and the Clan cheered. Aleu smiled at Sleath. 'Because you've shown wisdom and understanding, I will give you my leadership till the day I return.' Sleath's eyes grew wide in amazement. Aleu turned back to the rest of the pack, 'Obey our sister as you obey me. Now I will decide when to start my journey.'

Aleu had a lot on her mind. It was the afternoon and she was planning on leaving when the tide waves were calm.

She turned to the grove behind her and walked through it. There she hunted a small-rabbit, and began to eat. If Aleu was to start travelling soon then she must gain strength.

'Sleath talked with good sense, didn't she?' A rough voice interupted Aleu. She turned to see who it was. Behind her stood a young male wolf she had never seen before. His fur was dusky red and his eyes were amber coloured. Aleu stared at him for a moment before asking.

Aleu gazed into the wolf's eyes. Then she gave a cry of joy. 'Hanler!' And Hanler it was. But he had changed. He looked so young and strong, his eyes seemed to shine as if he'd seen happiness everywhere. His leg showed no sign of being broken. 'I thought you had died.'

'I did. But my spirit lives.' he smiled at her, ' I must warn you, Alpha. You are to face many dangers on your journey. Even after you cross the great sea. So I am going to guide you, on your quest.'

Aleu's jaw dropped. She couldn't think of anything to say. She looked up at Hanler, and to her astonishment she saw that his whole body was shimmering vividly. His eyes glowed as it did this. His paws had suddenly disappeared.

After her meal, Jenna flopped down on the bedroom carpet and was asleep at once. But her mind never rested. Her dreams showed her crowds, trials, sleds and prizes. But most of all the sled-dogs. She remembered that her grandad Flench, had been a famous sledding dog, and had always been chosen for races of all kinds. All the running exhausted and, eventually, killed him.

When she got up the next morning, Jenna was surprised to see her owner Rosie sitting up in bed and crying. Jenna rushed to her owner and licked her hand. Whatever's the matter? Rosie stopped crying and hugged Jenna tightly. After a few moments she let go and looked at Jenna for a long time. Finally she said.

'Daddy came home from the post-office yesterday,' she said. ' He heard that Balto is going to run to Anchorage! He's going to leave tomorrow!' Jenna eyes went widened. Just then the bedroom door opened and in came Rosie's father and mother. Both of them too looked troubled.

Mr David Loran got hold of Jenna's bandana and without a word, lead her out of the bedroom, through the kitchen and out of the house. Jenna breathed in fresh air and waited for Mr Loran to let go of her bandana. To her suprise, Mr Loran kept hold of her. What's going on? she thought.

She walked at his heels through town. Soon they came to a large wooden barn. At it's closed doors stood two men, who waved to them.

'So she's related to Flench?' the other asked. and Jenna ears pricked with a little annoyance as he started to examine her.

'Red fur; white markings, under-side and chest; triangular, erect ears,' he said. He got up,' Are you alright with us putting her into Nome's team?'

'No. But alot of people say I should, they want Nome to win these trials so badly.' her master patted Jenna on the head. Then giving her to the men, he walked away. Jenna watched him go, unable to believe what was happening. Rege went and pushed the barn door. Tep led Jenna in.

It was dark inside and little light shone through the wooden windows in the walls. The floor was of hard stone, strewn with straw at the far end of the barn. The men looped a rope around Jenna's neck and tied it to a ring in the wall.

Jenna stood in the darkness, staring at the shut door. She couldn't see anything except the beams of light shafting through the windows. Jenna gazed around at the darkness, thinking as she did; Was it true that she was to be part of Balto's team? If so, why was she here?

A voice interupted her thoughts, 'Jenna! Is that you?' From the shadows emerged the familar shape of a dog.

'Balto!' Jenna cried. Balto rushed out, they nuzzled each other. Although she had no idea what was up, she was glad to see him. Then she noticed that, like her, he was tied up with a long length of rope. She was about to ask Balto whether he knew why they were here, when another voice called,

'Mother, are you there?' It was their son Kodi. He too was roped up at the other side of the barn. And beside him sat...

'What's going on?' moaned somebody in a sleepy tone. Everyone looked around and saw a broad figure of a male-dog and it was Tamill who guessed who it was.

Dingo was sitting on some bundles of dried grass, looking at everyone with an expression of puzzlement. It was clear that neither any of them knew why they were here, except Jenna and Balto. Quickly they told their pups why. Moments later, the barn was quiet.

After an hour, the barn door opened and a fierce light shone in. Jenna blinked at it. She could just hear Rege and his friend come in. They were pulling a dog in and had knot it's rope beside the door. It made a fierce struggle, growling at Rege and Tep. They quickly withdrew, shutting the door behind them.

Jenna eyes grew used to the light, as she stared at the dog. It wasn't a Nome dog, nor one she knew...or was it? Beside her, Balto had stiffened and her children were fidgeting. Jenna took a curious step forward, trying to make out the dog in the half-light. It had white markings, which were clearly seen. It's scent was unfamiliar. Once more Jenna took a step. The dog looked up, and her head touched a sun shaft. Jenna immediately recognised the dark red body-fur.

'Chilla!' Jenna cried and ran forwards. Balto pulled at his rope as far as it could go, to reach their daughter while Chilla stood beaming, eyes showing relief and joy. Kodi and the others watched silently, too amazed to speak. They hadn't seen Chilla since she had been sold as a pup.

Chilla explained that she lived far outside Nome with her owners, who were a family of six. They had a very nice cabin home that was surrounded by hills and trees. She worked in the winter as a supply-hauler, along with her team. Her own girl Moria, would sometimes hitch her to a little cart in the spring time so to pick berries and herbs for the mother of the family. It made Jenna smile when she heard this, as it reminded her of when Rosie and herself had gone out together too.

When Chilla the told them about her suddenly being handed over to Mr Rege, Balto, Jenna and the others exchanged glances, 'Why are we all here?' she asked.

Balto explained about the Trails. Chilla shivered, 'I've never entered a race before,' she said. 'I don't think I would know how to cope!'

The whole clan gazed at the sea. The waves were calm but the the weather seemed hard and breezy.

She raised a paw and dipped it into the ice-cold water. Forcing her whole body on, she thrust herself into the swell, feeling the thick grit and sand below her paws sink and form clouds. It felt like walking in mud. Aleu shivered but didn't look back or hesitate.

When she was a few meters away from the shore Aleu almost knocked over face-first. She steadied, then looked out at the water beyond. It was different, it's colour was a darker blue-green. Aleu had reached the the start of the sea, but before she went any further she turned back to her pack. They sat on the beach, looking forlorn and terribly lost. Aleu's heart sank as she looked at them, and tears began to dampen her muzzle. But this was her journey and she had to complete it to save her family.

'I will be back!' she said finally. Her words seemed to enhearten every wolf. She plunged down into the water. It rippled, then her head shot out from beneath the waves. Pushing against the current, she started swimming northwards.

Aleu paddled furiously through the huge waves that bore down on her like swift eagles swooping on prey. Once more the wind had changed, stronger than before and pushing the waves higher. Aleu could hardly see what lay in front of her. The saltwater which was slashing at her face made her eyes sting.

After swimming a mile away from the island, Aleu finely managed to see clearly. She blinked hard and looked at what was infront of her.

She gasped in horror when she saw a massive wave, taller then a pine tree. It roared towards her, foamy and menacing. For a split second it reminded her of Hanler and the avalanche. She held her breath, just in time, before it crashed upon her and forced her underwater.

Aleu felt the cold water all around her, she didn't dare open her eyes. Quickly she swam to the surface again. Aleu opened her eyes and looked around. She saw nothing but waves. Where should she to go now? Aleu felt a tug of worry. The huge wave had left her in confusion. Aleu stopped trashing her paws and let the water carry her. She coughed out the salt in her mouth, then shouted aloud.

The wind howled as it once again flung the waves at her. Aleu waited for yet another ducking. But, unexspectedly, the water swept her up and along. It flowed like a river. Aleu looked at it in wonder. What was going on? Aleu didn't have time to decide, the waves had steepened. She screamed. She dropped off the peak of the swell, so fast that all she could see was a blur. Aleu shut her eyes tight. After all that had happened, her head was starting to pulse with pain.

Then, Aleu felt the waves slow down, and fall. She was unprepared for the thing it hit, which felt damp, crumbly and soft. Sand! Aleu opened her eyes and looked down at it in amazement. Then she looked up. Infront of her, lay a vast chain of cliffs and rocky slopes, covered in trees. The mainland! The pack's old home. Her old home also. How glad she was to see it again.

'Thank you,' she whispered to Hanler. The waves stopped lifting, and then became calm.

When the sun rose, Chilla woke up. Of all the dogs in the barn she was the first to awake. Suddenly, she heard loud bang. It was was coming from outside the door. Suddenly a deep and familiar voice cried out, 'Balto! Jenna! Is me! Boris! Speak to me!'

'Uncle Boris!' cheered Chilla, in delight. Her cry awoke everyone else. They stared at the wall. Chilla turned to her father. 'It's Uncle Boris. He's outside.'

Balto blinked then rushed to the door. He managed to walk about three metres before the rope went taut and he couldn't go any further. He stopped, and said aloud.

'Boris! Is that you?' There was a sound of shuffled snow and Boris's honks came again.

'Boris, listen. Jenna and the pups are here. I think we're being chosen for the race. Do you know when do we leave?' he asked.

'I don't know. Pretty soon,' answered the goose. There was pause. And then a cry followed, ''Ah, Balto! Men are coming! I will tell dogs!' They heard the patter of his webbed feet as he fled the barn.

'What did he mean?' Dingo said, after he'd gone. Before anyone could say anything, the door opened and Rege and Tep came in. They were holding red bowls and a big box. Chilla watched as they put the things on the floor. Rege took out a knife from his pocket and cut the thick string tying the box. The smell of fresh meat wafted by Chilla's nose. Her stomach began to rumble. Hearing the reports from Mel, she'd completely forgotten about having breakfast. All eyes watched intently as the humans placed the meat into the eight bowls.

Chilla noticed Rege and Tep glancing nervously at her. They were obviously remembering her vicious protesting when being taken into the barn. After a moments hesitation, Mr Rege stood up and strode uneasily over to Chilla. She backed away from him. Mr Rege put the meat on the floor in front of her, then quickly walked away. Chilla sniffed it curiously and chewed at it. It was unlike any other meat she had eaten before. It felt rubbery and had a lot of taste.

An hour later, the barn door opened again. It was Rege and Tep, followed by an old man. He acknowledged dogs with interest.

Tamill, who sat near Chilla whispered into her ear. 'I've heard of Mr Sulski,' he said, 'he's a hunter and musher, famous. He lives in the forest outside Koyuk.'

Sulski walked over to Kodi and examined his paws. Then he turned to feel Saba's. Chilla guessed he was making sure their paws were healthy enough for the racing. When Mr Sulski came to Balto, his face broke into a smile, and instead of checking Balto's paws, he patted him and turned to look at Jenna's. When Mr Sulski reached her, Tep said quickly.

Mr Sulski nodded, That's good. A dog who's loyal to it's master,' After checking her paws, Sulski untied both Chilla's and Tamill's ropes. He lead the two dogs outside. The men followed with the others. Chilla was so blinded by the sudden sun that she had to walk with her eyes half closed. How long had they stayed in the barn?

Outside Mr Sulski led them over to a wooden building with a door, which he opened. Chilla was led inside first.

The wooden shack was one-roomed. There was a magnificent sled to one side, laiden with a cloth all patched up using animal skins. The wood of the sled was thick and smooth. Nearby was a Sled Stopper made of metal, and on the wall hung sets of fine leather reigns. Each of them had their owner's name etched on; Sulski.

Sulski took Dingo from Mr Rege, and with Tamill, pulled him over to the sled. He chose two pairs of reigns and connected them to the front of the sled. Tamill and Dingo were put into them. The reigns were colourful, with different furs woven around the leather: brown moose; black, from a bear's; and mottled grey from a rabbit's. 'Now you, girl.' Sulski said to Chilla.

Chilla was placed just infront of Tamill, had her reings fitted, and was clipped to Tamill. Kodi was put in next to her. Saba was up front with Jenna, Balto in the lead.

The Hermit left the shed, then came back again with two heavy boxes, which he strapped onto the sled.

Rege and Tep opened the doors wide. A loud cheer was heard outside! Chilla strained to see a massive crowd. Sulski got onto the back of the sled, took the reins. 'Hike!' he shouted. Balto lunged forward. Chilla copied him. The team left the shack. The crowd backed away from them, cheering as they went.

When they reached the Inn, Chilla saw to her delight Boris, Mak, Luk, Doc, Morse, Niki, Kaltag, Star and others whom she knew. A number of people and dogs were with them. One, a man was standing apart, holding a tablet in one hand and a flag in the other. As they halted in front of him, he opened his mouth to speak, but before he could say anything a girl with red hair suddenly appeared. It was Rosie, and on her face were tears. She rushed to Jenna and wrapped her arms around her neck. 'Goodbye Jen. I'll miss you.' Her father was with her. Gently, he took his daughter by the hand and led her away. Jenna watched them go. She bowed her head. Chilla knew how her mother felt. She would miss her own girl too.

The Mayor gave Mr Sulski the tablet he'd been holding, then raised his hands to give a speech.

Guessing it was near time to start, Chilla crouched down. But then she spotted a little girl nearby whom she recognised. 'Moria!' Chilla cried, in joy. With Moria, were her folks and all their dogs. Chilla never felt so happy..

Shocked, Chilla stood rigid! Big mistake. At the same moment, she felt herself being pulledforwards and pushe behind by her kin. They know what their doing, she thought, as she went into run.

The team hastened down the Front Street. Cries of joy rang from the crowds. As they raced away the other dogs followed them a little way. Chilla glanced back at them, worried. She felt she was carrying a huge burden; she was running for the whole town!

But looking at her family and the firm resolution etched onto their faces, her heart swelled with new hope. We all share the same determination. We're not going to give up.

Through the flakes of falling snow. Balto could see what appeared to be a sign. As they drew nearer he saw that it engraved the name.

Inside the cabins, lamps were lit. The team pulled the sled into the town. They reached the town's High Street where they found people waiting for them. Who rushed to greet them. Among them was an old man with a white beard and wore a long black coat.

The Mayor of Koyuk chuckled. 'Oh, not long, not long,' he pointed to the team, 'Rig would like to see the dogs.'

Sulski nodded. 'Made it over here, did he? Alright. Hike!' Kodi and his family obeyed and left the High Street.

They came past a small cabin with ''ON LONE'' written on its front door. At this place Mr Sulski stopped the sled and then called out to the owners inside. The cabin-door opened and a middle-aged women with fawn coloured hair peered out. Ignoring the chilly weather, she called out.

The Musher thanked her and as she went back in, Sulski started unbuckle the Balto Family. Just then, a young lad wearing an oversized coat came running out. 'Go over to the sled and fetch the leads for the dogs, Jonny. Then help me bring them in.

Mrs Ground was waiting for them. Beside her, sitting on a arm-chair next to the fire, a man whose leg was strapped in a wooden poll. He appeared to be asleep.

'So they are.' Mr Ground said, opening his eyes. He held out a rough, pale hand to Balto. Balto licked it. Mr Ground smiled. He stood up and clasped each dog with both hands and patted them. Then he turned to Mr Sulsk. 'I can't thank you enough, sir.'

'Ah, it was a pleasure,' said Sulski. He glanced at the clock which hung on the wall and said, 'I best go, now. See you later.' He turned to go.

'No, no. I've got to see how my nephew is getting on at the Center. Let me know if you need anything.' and he left the cabin.

Balto stretched himself, while round him slept his family. The cabin was dark. Mrs Ground and Jonny had long gone up to bed, but Mr Ground, because he couldn't walk the stairs, made his sleeping quarter's on his chair. His wife had given him a pillow and blanket to cover him and keep him warm.

Balto blinked. Something definitely woke him. A soft thudding sound, but there was nothing in the cabin that could of caused it. The fire was out and the embers were gone.

It was probablly the wind, thought Balto. But just as he about to settle again his shar ears caught sounds. Long tones. Voices! They were coming from outside the cabin.

The old dog rose to his paws and hurried to the window, careful not to make a noise. Balto leaned on the window sill and peered through the glass. It was dark outside, the snow in the nightsky floated softly down to the ground. Balto looked to the direction where the voices were coming from. They seemed to be coming from the front of the cabin.

A sense of protective instinct took over Balto. He squinted as he tried to make out what they were saying. As he listened, Balto realized that there were only two of them and they were dogs. One was a female.

Then a poodle appeared from front of the cabin. Her woolly fur was as black as pitch and her trot was quite dainty. The dog pursuing her was more heavy and robust, with the shape of a wolf. His coat was short and less dark then the poodle's. Because the window had been built high, Balto could not see their features. He craned his neck as he listened. The two seemed to be agruing.

Leaning unnoticed upon the window sill, Balto watched the poodle and wolf disappear into the darkness of the town.

Mr Ground, roused by the voices (Mississippi's probably) was calling him. Balto turned and saw the man still sitting in his chair, surrounded by his family

Shaking his head, sympatheticly Balto flopped back onto bare floor and walked back to the chair. Rig gazed at him, frowning. Balto gazed, prudently back at him. If this man was to be their Musher, why was he entering the race in such a condition? He walked closer to the arm-chair and touched man's hand with his wet noise. Ground patted him. Balto, gently nudged the man's leg.

'I got this in an accident. I couldn't drive for a while, but as it grew better, our wage fell. When we nearly out I had to sell my own dogs, to keep us going. We've still a little with us, but how long for? One day, Sulski came to my cabin and told me about the Trail Run he'd just signed up to enter. He said that prize would be 10 million. It was then I knew I had enter myself, but how? But Mr Sulski then said that that would not matter. He told me...' he paused, patted Balto, 'He told me, they were wanting you for the race. So I signed up.'

Morning came. The both dog and human were up and having breakfast, when a knock at the door interrupted them.

While they waited, Dingo said to Chilla. 'I hope these humans will let us explore the town before we go.'

Chilla agreed, 'The cabin's so small. It's boring being coped up in here.' she said.

Nell came back. With her was the Mayor of Koyuk... and two poodles with fine, silk collars. The youngest was a female with coal black fur and sour face. Chilla thought she saw her father give her a funny look. The eldest dog, whose fur was honey coloured had a look of importance.

Their owner tapped his hat. 'Hello, Rig. Sorry to barge in now. But I've just been talking to the Doctor, and we were discussing something which concerns you.'

'I'm not disqualified, am I?' asked Rig, struggling from his chair. The Mayor shook his head, grinning.

The eldest spoke first. 'Greetings, Sir Balto and Lady Jenna. Allow me to indroduce myself. The name's Ragnel. And might I say! It is a great honer to meet such an regarded ambassador (and his family) from Nome's amiable settlements. The locals here are all indebted to you. And are at your commands.'

Listening to this strange talk, Chilla and her brothers and sisters tried to stop themselves from chuckling. Balto and Jenna meanwhile, looked bewildered. 'Err. Thank you.' he said, finally.

Ragnel bowed. 'A pleasure,' he nodded to his companion,' this is my daughter, Missy.'

'Yes, the rules of the race. It's to begin tomorrow. Your destination is the town of Anchorage. It lies south east. You will be Nulato, then down river to Kaltag. Carry on to Grayling then cut across to Red Devil and straight down to Anchorage, across the rivers.' He paused for breath.' Each mushers wil be given a stack of flags. One with green, one will be blue and one red. With these they must mark every mile with them until you get to Anchorage. There now, any questions?'

'Ah, the human mushers are Mr Sulski and Mr Maximous. Their leaders are called Lurth and Nero.'

'We must be going, now. If there's anything else you need know, just call.' Ragnal said. He bowed again, then he and Mississippi left to follow their master.

After they'd gone, Rig said to his wife. 'Well, dear. How about we all spend the afternoon together outside, before I go to the Clinic. The dogs will like that?' Nell asked him where too. Ground thought for a few moments. At last he said. 'We'll go out the town. We can take the dogs with us. They need a good long run.'

Nell agreed. Chilla, who'd been listening, wagged her tail in delight! At last we're going out. She thought.

She waited, patiently, as the Grounds finished their breakfast, cleared the table and went to put on their winter clothes. When they came back, they brought with them a dozon leads. Chilla groaned aloud! Her mother gave her a hard nudge. Moodily, she let Nell clip her collar. Once the dogs were ready, the Grounds opened the door and led them outside.

The area around Koyuk was not as wide as Nome's. Nor was it barren. Trees specked the blankness of the snow ground. About half a mile away from them stood a small glade of pine trees.

Once their leads were taken off, Chilla and others bolted out over the snowy plain. Soon, they were laughing, playing and racing together. The Grounds watched them, smiling.

As she ran near it, Chilla stopped to look at the glade. It looked lovely, that it was if someone had planted it that way. The trees were arched and between their roots, was a small pool. As she gazed at it, Chilla caught a movement! A large, dark shape suddenly appeared from behind a pine, padded towards the pool and started to drink. Chilla stared. It was a wolf!

She backed away. The wolf's ears pricked. It lifted its head, looked around...and saw her. For a long time moment the creature gazed at her, eyes flashing. Then, it ran towards her. Chilla gasped. She turned to run, when a shrill voice stopped her tracks.

Kodi couldn't believe his eyes. Running back with Chilla was no other then Aleu, his sister whom he had long given up ever to see again. 'Aleu!!!' he shouted out and rushed to greet her.

Aleu gasped as Kodi sprang on her. They rolled like that about, laughing and giggling as they did. Once he had his sister on the ground, Kodi licked her face. Aleu nipped him, playfully.

Amid their rejoicing, Kodi suddenly caught sight of the humans. Rig, Nell and Jonny. All three were staring at them. Wether in horror or astonishment, Kodi couldn't quite know. Aleu saw them too. Ignoring everyone else, Rig limped up to her. Aleu backed away. Then halted! She remained still as Ground drew closer. The man stopped in front of her and slowly, he held out his arm. Aleu reached over to sniff it. The was a pause. She licked it. Then gently, buffed his hurt leg with her nose.

Mr Ground smiled. He nodded to her and then others. 'You're all from the same bloodline. We could use another in our team. How about it?' Kodi and the others barked in agreement.

As night grew upon the town, both dog and man returned to the cabin. Then after a light meal, both Mr and Mrs Ground left to go and see the docter, leaving their son to look after the dogs. While they were gone, Jonney tended to the dogs. He bought some combs and brushes. Though grooming wasn't Tamill's favourite chore, he let the boy pamper him. Once they were brushed and then combed, Tamill and the others were given their evening meal.

After they'd finished, the dogs were led to to the Main Room. There they laid themselves down and slept.

'So why did you leave?' Saba asked. Everyone knew what happend and why Aleu left Nome. Balto had told them about their journey.

'Not long ago, I had a dream. You were all there on a cliff, tied to a sled and pulling it. There was a storm. It ...it...swallowed you and...That was all.' she paused,' I knew something was wrong and decided to heed the dream. So I had to come here. I was afraid for you all.'

'Your sister shares a strange...awareness that is known to wolves of the wild. I don't fully understand it myself. Once I had a dream which led us to the shore. It proved true. But how did lead you here?'

'Some old friend led showed me the way.' admitted Aleu,'that's all I can say.' she stared back at each of their puzzled faces. 'All I will say, is this. I know about the race. I know you're all going to be in it. But I want to help just to make sure you get back safely.'

Further conversation was interrupted by the sound of the door opening. The Grounds had returned. The Doctor had seen to Rig and agreed he seemed strong enough to enter the race. On their way back, the Grounds had passed a butchers store and picked up some supplise for the Race. As they came in the dogs greeted them affectionately. Rig held out his hand again to Aleu. This time, he patted her. Aleu's ears pricked. She nosed his arm. Rig smiled.

Afterwards they all sat by the fire Jonney had been tending and later settled themselves down to sleep.

As Mr Ground and Jonny lead them out of the cabin. Jenna whispered to her mate. 'Will we make it?'

They met no person nor dog. Everyone had gone to the Town Square. Silently, the Balto Family and the Grounds left the cabin.

They came to a large barn. Nell went to the door and opened it for them. They entered the barn. They found Mr Sulski there with Nick and eight strong dogs. Rig hailed them. 'Hay Sulski! Where's the sled?'

'Over there. Under that sheet.' he pointed to a covered shape in the far corner. With a nod from his father, Jonny pulled it off and there stood the sled. Beautifully furnished. Jonny brought out the reins from it's ready bags.

Dingo was put first. Next was Tamille. Chilla. Aleu. Saba. Kodi. Jenna. And Balto. 'I see you have another.' Sulski said, nodding to Aleu,' Tough cookie. Where did you get her?'

'I would watch her, if I were you.' the hermit warned him. Rig nodded. Jenna frowned. It was clear the humans were unsure with her daughter. She looked at Sulski's dogs and was surprised to find that they were all mixed breeds (except for two Eskimo dogs). They looked very sleek and sturdy. The Lead-dog was brown with dark cream markings. His companion, who was much younger then him was black and white, and had a look of sourness and disgust in his face which made Jenna want to drew back.

She glanced back at her pups. She and Balto were the main Leaders of the team. Kodiak and Saba were Turners. Aleu and Chilla were the Runners. And Dingo and Tamill were Pullers.

Mr Sulski said. 'Right, we're all done.' Going to his sled, he bid Nick and Jonny to open the doors. They did so. Outside was clear. The snow had stopped a chilly wind was still in the air.

Nell reached over the sled and kissed her husband goodbye. 'Take care, you hear.' she said. Then softly added. 'I love you.' Rig smiled. She left him. He nodded to Sulski and both of them shouted ''Hike!'' and they all left the barn.

The square was clustered with people and dogs from young to old. They cheered when they saw them coming. They all seemed keen. Jenna could feel their excitement. As for herself, her heart was fluttering. She was part of a great event. Her first real race! If only Rosie were here, she wished.

They pulled the towards the standing polls. Everyone backed away for them. As the crowds parted, Jenna noticed for the first time that there was another team next to the polls. It was their other opponent. Team number 3. Jenna and the others made their way next to them. Placed beside the polls, was a low podium and on it stood the Mayor and his wife. They were clothed in gold and splendid fur jackets. Ragnel and Missy were sitting with them. The poodles bowed to the teams.

Jenna gave them a warm smile, before turning her attention to the team she hadn't seen yet.

Their musher, Ted Maximous was a tall, broad shouldered man, with jet, black hair and a broad, boned face. The five Eskimo dogs were with him on the team. There were also two Siberian Huskies. But the last, an Alaskan Malamute was...Jenna gasped aloud!

Steele after hearing his name, turned his head and saw them. He looked older and less bulky. But the look of pride was still visible. The was a tense moment amid the hubbub. At last Steele spoke in the voice they remembered. 'Well, wolf-dog. You got what you wanted. And more.' he shot a glance at Jenna and then their pups. 'Fame and fortune. Who could ask for more? Say, Jenna. Good to see yer. Wondered if ever I would.'

'Ladies and gentleman!' he roared. 'We thank you for coming. We also would like to thank those who have traveled far to watch this exciting event. And to see three of the greatest mushers and dogs from different towns compete with each other. On 1st Place, running for our town; Sulski with his lead dog, Lurth'

Sulski waved, cheerily as the the people of Koyuk cheered for him and his team. Nick hailed to his uncle.

The Mayor went on, proudly. 'On 2nd Place. Running for Nome; Rig Ground and the famous wolf-dog, Balto!

There was joyous sound of cheering crowds, Nell and Jonny. Jenna gave Balto a fond lick, fondly. Balto gave her a loving look. 'I needed that.' he said. They nuzzled each other.

'Lastly, on 3rd Place, and running for White Mountain; Ted Maximous and his dog, Nero!'

While the people cheered. Ragnel suddenly hopped off the podium and ran straight in front of the teams. He accounted them. 'Once the crowds settles, the Mayor will give a signal and three men will come and give each of your mushers a stack of flags. Green, blue and red. They will help mark your three mile trail for the plane to see.'

As the cheers died down, the Mayor gave a signal and three men came down. The gave the flags to the mushers. While they did, the Mayor gave one last announcement. 'The teams will plant the flags after each mile. Now, teams at the ready!'

The dogs crouched down. Steele whispered to Balto. 'Well wolf-dog. See you...very soon.'

The rivals glared at each other for a moment, then turned away. 'Oh Balto!' Jenna whispered fearfully to him. Balto didn't reply.

Balto didn't look at him. He just shook his head. 'We never even tried to be.' he said

Through clenched jaws, Dingo pulled the weight of the sled through the vast landscape. Behind him, ran Tamill and ahead of them Aleu, Chilla, Kodi, Saba, Jenna and Balto. Far behind them, the town of Koyuk lay a mile away. They had only two more to complete their first route.

Glancing sideways, Dingo could see that the other teams were still running beside them. The closest one was Nero's. They were almost neck to neck! Dingo's eyes narrowed as he thought. It would be a good chance for these Eskimo dogs to commit any kind of crook or trick Anything could occur if they remained racing alongside them.

'We must overtake this team,' he called to his father. 'Or one will overtake us.'

Dingo remained silent, but before long Kodi suddenly cried out,

Soon all the dogs were aware of a faint, buzzing sound which seemed to be coming from the sky, beyond the clouds. Just then a black shadow crossed the white land. Everyone glanced up and saw that it was a plane. Balto just stared at it.

'It's here.' he whispered. 'It's really here...The Balto Flyer. FOR NOME! FOR HOME!!!'

Balto gave a leap forwards, followed by Jenna, Kodi, Saba and soon after the whole family charged. The sled speeded further and futher away from the other teams until it was well ahead. Dingo laughed out lound. They were favorably ahead. The race was theirs!

Looking back, he could see the faces of Nero, Steele and Lurth, straining to keep up with them. Then Nero gave a deafening bellow and regained a new speed. Steele raced beside him. Their sled skidded after them. Now only Lurth remained, pursuing the two in front, without luck of gaining ahead.

Dingo laughed again and turned his attenion to the horizon. Whatever lay in front of them, didn't matter to him. They were going to win. They had too.

It was not until after completeing their first mile did the mushers halt their sleds. Near them was a small, snow - covered hillock in the middle of a vast white land. Rig and Ted were the first to complete their route. A little away behind them, Mr Sulski was still struggling to catch up with them. The men jump off their sleds, each grabbed a bag contain the stack of flags and made for the hill.

For Mr Ground this was difficult. He had to limp the way with long, slow strides. Dingo groaned. He spied for Mr Maximous. To his horror, the grim human had already planted his flag and making for his team. Quickly, he stood on the sled and roared ''Hike, hike!'' . Nero and his team shot off into the horizon, beginning their second route. Dingo gave a furious snarl. He turned to the others.

Dingo beat the snow furiously. He couln't believe how close they were with winning. To make matters worse Sulski had arrived! As he halted, Sulski's lead-dog Lurth grinned at them,

'Finally cuaght up with you, huh.' he said,

Dingo glared at him. Meanwhile Mr Ground had reached the sled and had his hand on the handlebar. Without wait for an order, Dingo cried.'NOW HIKE!' and lept forwards into a run. Aleu followed after him, without a caution. The others had to shade, in seconds the sled was thrust forwards. With an angry cry Rig gripped on the bar, and seizing the reins he cried out.

'Hold! Balto HOLD!' he roared. But Balto couldn't do anything. Both he and Jenna had been pushed by the wave and were forced to run. Dispite his poor leg, Rig somehow pulled himself up firmly on the moving sled. He gripped the reins and gave them flap. Balto's team left Sulski, Lurth and the dogs and resumed its journey.

It was late evening. The three teams had set their camps under the leaves of the trees. All had accomplished their day's run and were exhausted. While the dogs had their first moments rest, the mushers choose their own camp locations. Mr Ground would have his on the foot of the hill, Mr Maximous up the top. Mr Sulski camp further off on a flatland.

Rig started up his tent then he collected his bag of stones to start a fire. Dingo, Balto, Jenna, Saba, Chilla, Tamille and Kodi went gather some wood. Aleu had disappeared. Soon after they had a huge pile of wood standing next to the tent. Mr Ground lit it and a fire stood blazing. Just then Aleu reappeared with two freshly killed rabbits hanging in her jaws. She placed it beside the musher's feet. Rig smiled. His anger had faded.

'Good girl.' he said, warmly. He took a rabbit from her and immediately begin to skin it. Soon, both were poked and placed over the fire. Two hours later they were throughly cooked. The dogs and Rig ate their fill. Tired from the day's run, the dogs huddled round, feeling the warmth of its glow.

As Dingo lay there ready to shut his eyes, his keen ears caught the silent conversation of his father and sister.

'Aleu, thank you for bring those rabbit. It really helped Mr Ground.' said Balto.

'It's okay. I like him. He's okay for a human.' she said. Then she asked, 'How am I doing, Papa?'

There was a short pause.

'You were okay in the begininng, Aleu. I think Rig was surprised. But remember, you've only just started. Believe me, no one's great at first.' Balto said to her. There was another pause and Dingo guessed that they'd finished talking. He rested his head on his paws.

'Dingo! Can I talk to you!'

Dingo head shot back. Balto was sitting alone. Aleu had gone to join Jenna and her sisters. With a reluctant sigh, Dingo got up and walked to his father.

Balto eyed him sternly,

'We need to talk about that swoop you gave us, Dingo. Rig nearly got hurt trying gripping that sled.'

'Dad, let me explain -'

'No, first you listen,' Balto said, not sternly, ' then you learn. I know apprehensive you are about this race, son. But you mustn't let that get in the way of your loyalty to humans. Especially a man like Rig Ground. He wants to make sure we all get home, just as much as I do.'

'But you said Rig needed money to pay his wages. We can win this race, if we remain ahead of everyone.'

'Not without our musher.' Balto said, 'This is Rig's race, not ours. All we have to do is to protect him. Understand? If we abandon him (like we almost did), the harder for us all. A dog-team can't win a race without a musher. Weak or otherwise. Do you understand?'

Dingo nodded. He felt ashamed.

'Another thing,' went on his father.' instead of being impatient. Why not try helping your sister. Aleu's finding difficulty understanding these commands. Your actions made it more complicating for her.'

'Yes dad. I'm sorry.'

'Just remember, we're not just a team. We're a family.' he gave Dingo a fond nip then left him alone. Dingo cursed his own thoughtlessness. He wondered if he ought to make it up to Mr Ground. How how?

'Evening, friend.' said a cheery voice.

Dingo looked round. Standing behind him was a strange dog. A tall, brown husky with black stripes running over his back. He looked younger then him and wore a collar, whose make looked exactly like the ones which Steele's dogs wore!

'Evening.' he returned, curtly.

'No hard feelings about that run?'

'Err, no.'

'You're one of the Balto's lot, right?' the stranger asked.'My name's Koltav. You can call me Tavo.'

Dingo nodded,

'My name is Dingo. What can I do for you?

'Oh, nothing. I'm just out for a walk.'

'Ah, and your team?'

'Back at the camp.'

'I see. Have you eaten?'

'Yes, we have.'

'Oh, well. You can come and meet the others, if you like.'

Koltav accepted this invitation, readily. They trotted back the campsite, Mr Ground had gone into his sleeping-bag and was sound asleep. Balto and the rest were awake and talking in whispers. As Dingo and his new friend approched, the family stopped and stared questioningly at Koltav. Dingo cleared his throat,

'Everyone. Someone from Nero's team has come to see us. This is Koltav.'

'But you can call me Tavo.'

'Nice of you to drop by.' Jenna smiled, while the others nodded in agreement.

Koltav sat down next to Balto. He grinned at him,
'Your Balto, aren't you.' he said, eyes wide with wonder. Balto smiled but didn't reply. 'could you tell me all about the Serum Run, sir?'

It was a story Dingo and the others knew, but were never tired of hearing. As Balto recounted his adventures to get the medicine to Nome, Koltav eyes grew wider. When he heard about the fight with Steele and his plans to decoy the sled to ever reaching Nome, he shook his head,

'Steele never told us what happand during that mission.' he said, after Balto had finished.

Koltav scratched his flank,
'Only that he went wandering for years. Some humans found him in the forest and brought him to our town. Ted Maximous came and bought him. The rest is history.'

Koltav's cheerful face changed,
'Yes. I used to belong to a man called Mr Ludovic. I spent all my life in a town quite close to White Mountain. One day I overheard my human talking to someone about Steele. I knew was racing champion who had went missing during the Serum Run. The man who had bought him was preparing a dog team for an upcoming race. I learnt that the team were passing by our town, so I slipped my tether and ran after them. Big mistake.'
Koltav said, and his ears drooped gloomily.' My speed and strength must of impressed him. He later found where I belonged and bought me and my brother.'

An angry growl was heard.The dogs looked back in time to see Nero and Steele sliding down the hill, bumping into each other as they reached the ground. Showers of snow flew up before raining down on them. Humiliated, they shook it off themselves, then stomped towards the campfire.

'Yes Nero, sir.'

'Get over here!'

'Yes sir.' He went silently towards his leaders.

Nero nodded in satisfaction,

'Lets get back to the camp. Coming, Steele?'

Steele didn't move. He stood still staring down at Balto and Jenna.

'In a minute, Nero.' Steele said. Balto returned his gaze, coolly. Nero nodded at him and then left with Koltav.

Steele remained standing and staring long at Balto. Eyes like chips of ice burned back at him. Dingo shivered with hate and fear. The cruel husky stepped closer and closer towards Balto and Jenna. Jenna hid herself in her mate's flunk. But Balto didn't blink and eye.

'There isn't anything to say, Steele.' Balto said, simply.

'Actually there is,' Steele smirking, 'Did Koltav say anything which interested you?'

Balto's eyes narrowed,

'You had better go, Steele.'

Steele winced,

'Hmph! Well, have a peaceful night then.' he said and then walked away.

Aleu smiled. It felt so good that her family were together. Dispite their different lives (her's especilly) she felt so blessed to be reunited with them again. Yet she couldn't help being a burden to them.

She knew she had done something wrong during the first day of the race. Dingo had ordered their team to start without Mr Rig, causing Balto to be very angry with him. Yet, Aleu felt that she should shared the blame. She was after all a beginner. Now that they were about to embark on their next run, Aleu was nervous. What if I ruin it again.

Five hours before dawn, Aleu and the others were woken up and fed some meaty chunks. Whist she ate hers, Aleu tried to fight off her sleepy eyes.

I'm a wolf, she thought to herself, wolves are suppose to be night creatures! Aleu's head flopped and groaned Why are we up so early, she wondered and she drifted away.

Aleu eyes snapped open. Saba was standing by with Chilla and Balto. They looked worried.

'You're not the only one who's sleepy.' Chilla whispered. She turned to their father. 'Why we're talking in whispers, Papa?'

'Shushhhhhhhhhhhhh!' Balto looked up at the hill and it's still, dark shapes of their oppoinants. None of them moved. 'Mr Rig has plan!' he whispered and stole away.

'I'm beginning to understand Mr Rig's strategy now.' grinned Aleu. as she trotted beside Dingo.

Dingo nodded back at the tall but bent figure of the musher, who ushered them towards the sled.

An hour later, when the sled was ready stocked, Mr Rig returned with rains and attached each of the dogs to the sled. Balto, Jenna, Kodi and Saba were all ready. Now was Aleu and Dingo's turn. Throughout the hour, they were careful not to wake the other teams, who slept still over the hill.Once they were all rained, Mr Rig grabbed Balto by the scruff and started off. Balto followed and together they led the team into a walk across the edge of the snowy hill. Nothing stirred, except the flakes of snow that began to fall again. They made no sound.

Five minutes later, they were a little away off from the campsite. Still they drew on silently, Rig leading the way. Aleu admired how he coped his pains. Even with a limp, he was determined to carry on. As they edged on, Aleu was startled by a voice beside her. It was Dingo.

'Aleu,' he said, in a low whisper. 'There's something I've been meaning to tell you.'

'It's about that mistake I made during the Run. You remember, when I called us to go ahead with The Trail Run and we nearly left Rig. It wasn't fair on him. Or YOU. I'm sorry I confused you.'

'Its just that...I know we can win this race. I was so worried. But Dad was right. There are more important things to consider. I drove you forward. That was wrong. I am sorry.'

'I see. Well, I'm very sorry too, Dingo. For not asking. Wearily, the family and Rig made their way across the hill. At last they reached flat grounds. Mr Ground let go of Balto's coller and limped back to the sled. As he passed Aleu, he turned and looked over her. Aleu knew he was looking at Dingo. He said nothing to him but carried on towards his sled.Once he was on, Rig lashed out but not too hard. It was an firm, easy flick. One which every dog knew, even Aleu. They were to resume their journey, but in stealth.

Like ghosts through a swirling storm, Ground's team left the hill without notice.

Morning light beat the camp. Koltav was the first to awake. Stretching his limbs he got up and made his way towards the tent where his master, Mr Maxamous slept. Koltav could hear snoring coming from within. Koltav could of laughed out loud, but hunger burned in him like a hole.

'Steele!' Nero approched them. His face was a mask of annoyance.' Steele, I can't let our team lie in. I must wake up Ted.'

Steele sniffed. Koltav could tell that Steele wasn't to fond of the idea. 'Alright, go on.' said Steele, afterwards. Nero entered the tent. The Eskimo Dog tail twitched his curly tail nervously. Steele and Koltav watched him, silently. There was a mighty roar, followed by a loud thud. Nero jetted out through the gap, his tail between his legs. Maximous crawled outside, his face red with anger.

'Get back here. Nero! Here Nero! NERO!' he bellowed. Noro obayed and returned swiftly, eyes, ears and tail down. As he passed it, the shelter of Sulksi moved and Sulski appeared. He had been awakened by Ted's cries. All around the campsite, dogs were beginning to awake. While the mushers started preparing breakfast, Koltav followed Nero and Steele to join the other dogs of both teams. Sulski, frowning walked to the edge of the hill and looked over the down. Lurth and two others of his team went with him. They stared down at the spot where Rig's camp lay.

'Ted, come over here!' Ted left his fire and ran after him, followed by Nero and Steele. Koltav tagged after them. He was burning with curiosity. But also worried that something had happened to Balto and Co. Further more, Koltav had an odd feeling that something crucial had took place. Like a hare, he bounded after the others. When he reached the edge, he found Sulski kneeling down on the snow and Maximous standing behind him, his face was ashen white.

Koltav looked down and gasped. At the foot of the hill the ground was empty with no signs of life. Mr Ground and his team were gone.

Maximous broke the silence and whispered hoarsely. 'Ground has...taken the lead!'

'Well, after them, man!' Sulski cried, leaping up. Both men bounded back to their camps. Steele and Nero followed them. All around the camp there were shouts as the drivers sorted through their sled kit, while calling their dogs to them. Only three figures stood motionlessly on the edge of the hill. Koltav had remained fixed in his place staring at the horizon. With him were Lurth and one of Lurth's team members, a female dog called Athera.

'Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeharrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!' Roared Tamill, as he and Dingo pulled the sled after the others. Ahead of them, the sun had risen into stunning gold rays!

Tamill blinked at it and turned his eyes towards the horizon. A vast, empty wilderness lay in front of them. Tam glanced over his shoulder, to where they had crossed. The snow was falling in light, feathery formations. A white blanket had covered their tracks. Mr Rig was at the stern, looking grim but determind. Miles and miles away, slept their opponents. Tamill grinned to himself. They had lost them. Lurth, Sulski, Maximous, Steele, Nero, and Koltav. Everyone. The race was theirs! Rig's plan had worked. Perhaps nothing could withstand them. No doubt that Maximous and Sulski will try hard to pursue them. They would probably be awake by now. It was almost nearly noon.

He turned his eyes from the truth and gazed towards what lay in front of them. Cold mountains, specked with green tall trees, with a river running through them.

Tamill felt his heart race with excitement.

Finally. The race was theirs!

'Tammy, be careful. Whoaaa!' Jenna screamed as a jet of water rained over her. 'Tam, stop that. STOP! STOP!' she shrieked, as he repeated the prank until she backed away from the riverbank. Tamill laughed. He was on his back, floating his hind legs beating the water.

Then he took a deep breath and turned himself. Water blinded his vision. Bubbles floated up, covering his eyes. But Tam felt no panic. He had learnt how to swim since he was a pup and loved it. But his joy turned to shock when finally his eyes grew used to the damp and the light fell in the water, he saw a empty world dotted with stone and sharp pebbles. No fish was in sight. Angry, he pulled himself out of that world, into the sunlight and the air. Shaking of the water from his eyes he spotted his mother sitting on the bank watching him.

'There's nothing down there.'he said to her.

'That's becuase your doing the wrong way.' a voice said. It wasn't his mother. It was Balto. With him were Kodi the others. To Tamill's surprise Mr Ground was also with them. How did Kodi cox Rig to join them? Who will guard their camp?

'Let me guess,' Balto mused, as he reached Jenna side.'he dived in and found no fish.'

'That's why nobody lives here.'Tamill cried, paddling ing towards the bank.

'Wrong,' Balto said, as Tamill joined them.' We spotted them swimming away downriver. You scared them off.' he looked at him, grimly. Tamill sighed in frustration. He knew he had made a mistake but he loathed it when his father lectured him in front of everyone. He felt embarressd. Balto shook his head and shrugged 'Never mind, we will just have to go after them.'

                                                                              ***

   'Did you catch anything?' Kodi asked. Tamill glanced over the bank, to where his brother and the others stood, waiting.

   'Nop.' Balto replied, still staring at the waters. He gave a deep sigh.

All three were on the boat. Tamill, his father and Rig. The river was wide and swift, but the water was calm. Rig held out a long line with bait tied to the end of it, while the other end he held with a skillful hand. In order to control the line (and catch) he wore no gloves. So far they hadn't caught anything.
Tamill couldn't believe that any fish would be swimming here, unnoticed. The river was very calm and almost see through. Like a clouded stain - glass window.

   'Anything yet?'

   'Not yet,' growled Tamill,' Be patient.'

There came a low groan.

   'Is there no room in the boat.' asked Saba

   'We might as well get a drink of water and starve.' Dingo sniffed.

'That would help a lot.' Tamill joked,

'Oh well.' Jenna said, airily with a dazzling smile. She glanced at the others, still standing on the riverside.'Come on, pups.'

'Hay, stop that. You'll scare the fish-'

SPLASH!

Unheeded by his threats, his mother, brothers and sisters were in the water.

'Hay, stop!' Tam shouted, 'What do you think your doing.'

'Following your old example, bro.' laughed Kodiak.

'Get out of that water, at once!'

'Oh, you sound just like Ragnel.' scoffed Chilla.

Kodi made an impersonation of Ragnel,

'How vulgar. Take no notice, Madam Chilla.'

The others burst out laughing.

Tamill groaned,
'Perfect, that's just perfect. Now we'll never collect any fish. We're wasting our time.'

'Now Tamill, 'Balto said sternly,'Don't you start fidgiting too. I've already had a talk with Dingo. But since he's not the only one, perhaps we better mobilize everyone and we can have a family talk. A long-family-talk.'

'Okay, okay okay,'the young dog, hastily. 'Your the Boss, Dad. I'll just chill.'

Balto sniffed and then turned to stare back into the water, in silance. Mr Ground (seeing that the dogs were restless) was packing away the net he had made, when something far up river, caught his eye.

'Balto,' he whispered,'Tam. Look.'

Both Tamill and Balto followed his gaze. Nothing was moving in their spot. The fish were gone. But something was blocking the flow of the river. A large pine tree, fallan due to age, was choking the river. Tamill thought that it must of been a huge giant, for as he scanned closer, he spotted something splashing. It was a fish. Followed by another fish and another. The catch were trapped. They trying to spring over the fallen pine, to get to the other side.

***

'Well, well, well. Fishing worked out better then I thought.' murmured Tamill. They were walking back to the camp. Their catch had been a success. They had plenty of fresh fish for all of them. Rig ment to cook the lucky catch and save their supplise for later.

'OH No!'

'What is it, Kodiak?' Tam asked, turning to his brother.
Kodiak didn't reply, instead he raced ahead of them towards the direction of the camp. Tamill watched him, puzzled. What had eaten him? Did anything happen back at the river. As he thought, the wiff of fish struck his nose. He wriggled his nose at the strong smell, then stopped in amazement. There was new scent hanging in the air. Ignoring the fish, Tam tried to name it, but couldn't. But he knew one thing. Whatever it was, must be in...

'The camp.' He cried in terror, breaking into a run.' The camp. Mum, Dad! Somebody's in our camp!'

The others followed after him.

They found Kodi standing in the middle of a shatterd wreckage. Only the sled was still in tack and hardly spoiled. Everything else had been torn. Baggage, clothes, blankets, Mr Ground's tent. All ruined.

'What-what happend.'Tamill staring in horror at the ripped up remains of the tent and baggage. It was difficult to tell what type of creature it might have been. It had been snowing while they had been away, so it was no good looking for tracks The sled was tipped over, the baggage had been torn to shreds. Oddly theough, their were no sign of any claw-marks.

It could of been anything, thought Tamill, Why oh why did we ever abandon our provisions

Who did this?

He sniffed the air. But the scent was unfamiliar to him.

' Who could of done this?' he whispered.

XVIII

' Dad.'

' What is it, Dingo?' asked Balto, moodily. It was nearing the end of the afternoon and the family were helping their driver clear up the remains of their camp. As for the unknown vandals, Aleu had solved that mystery. The scent from the teethmarks on the baggage belonged to a wolf. Balto thanked his lucky stars Aleu hadgone with them to the river. Otherwise, Rig might of been suspicious. But as the day drew towards the evening, Balto couldn't help wishing that someone had stayed to guard the camp. How could I let this happen, he asked himself.

It was in this gloomy state when Dingo approched him, followed by Saba. Both looked worried. Balto was in no mood to talk, but after stealing aglance at their anxious faces, he decided to meet whatever bad news it was, calmly.
' What's wrong.'

' They took the food supplies.' said his son.

Balto frowned. He glanced at Rig who was collecting bits of the tent. He nodded to his son and daughter.

'Okay, listen.' he whispered.' You two go and find Aleu and all of you go and catch some food and bring it here. We'll keep him busy.'

Jenna had been listening. She called after them.
'Come straight back, soon after you find something.'

Both mother and father watched them disappear, grimly. Balto looked at his mate, curiously.
' What is it, Jenna?' he asked, softly.

' It's nothing dear.'Jenna answered, hurriedly. She was silent for a momment.' Oh Balto, as much as I wish we knew who did this, I do hope we don't run into them,'

' I hope so too, Jen.' he looked over his side to where Rig stood. His arm resting on a tree, as he moodily kick some of the debris with his good leg. He looked angry, but glancing closely at his face Balto could see he was fighting back tears.

' I'll be back later.' Balto whispered to his mate, then very slowly approched Mr Ground. The musher stirred and turned his eyes away from the wreck to where his lead-dog stood. Balto halted and stared towering figure, his fury made Balto nervious. But dispite this, he sensed a sudden change in the man's manner. For a moment Mr Ground stood motionless, his eyes shinning, his teeth clenched in rage and pain. Now he seemed calm again. His whole frame relaxed. Rig reached down and patted him.

' Well, we are in a sorry state, Boy.' he tickled Balto's ear.

Balto smiled and licked his hand. Though it was surprised about this sudden change, he was not going to ruin the chances of setting things right for all of them. If they could collect whatever was left undamaged, they can continue on ahead of the other teams and hopfully stop by a nearby town and get fresh provisions there. Yet something had elavated Ground's mood and Balto wasn't sure what it was. Or wether he liked it.

He left him to his own thoughts.

Instead of rejoining Jenna, Balto walked up to the sled and frowned. Jenna who sat staring at him, stood up and padded to him. Sitting by his side, she waited patiantly.
'Jenna,' said Balto, and heaved a sigh.' I can't let this problem pass as inconviance.'

'I would like to get my paws on whoever did this.'growled Tamill, approching the scene.
Balto shook his head sadly.
'Whoever they were, covered their tracks very well. I doubt it was Steele.'

'Maybe it was,'remarked Tamill, softly. Looking thoughtfully at the marks then causally up at the sky.'It would be worth knowing, but we should we let that bother us.'

'What do you mean?'his father asked.

'Just an idea, Dad.'he shrugged.'Anyway, we'll be fine if we keep to our routine.'

'You have a point, there.'Balto nodded. Tamill was right. If they continued on, they would reach town first and gather fresh supplise.

'Everyone,' he said aloud.' Get ready. We may be leaving soon. What's the matter, Jenna?' Balto asked his mate.

'Did you notice this weather.' she sighed, wearily.' I don't like the look of it.'

Balto's ears pricked. He turned to gaze up at the sky. There was light breeze but the sky was darkening. They had a few more miles to go, before they reached the mountains. Rig was determind to get to them before Sulski and Maximous reached the wood.

' It will pass.' Balto smiled, comfortly.

They touched noses and then walked to were Rig Ground was standing. He was inspecting the teethmarks again with confusion.

Balto growled to himself. What a pity they returned too late. Whoever did this, would of been dogmeat.

' They must be miles away, by now.' he said to Jenna.

' I hope so.' she answered. Her hope had turned to worry again.

Balto nuzzled, guessing her thoughts.

' They will be fine. With Dingo and Aleu, they'll be fine.'

Jenna nodded, as they helped Rig pick up more of the wreckage.

Mr Ground had earlier noted Aleu's absence, but to Balto's surprise, he didn't question where they went. Instead, Rig gathered the rest of the team and attached them to the sled. As he was finishing with Balto, Dingo and the others reappeared their their catch.They had brought a rich portion of birds and rabbits, freshly killed.

Though Mr Ground's face was stern as he lectured the young dogs, all could see plainly that he was touched they had brought more food for them. He had already known about the stolen supplise. The musher seemed enlivenend by this new provision.

After everything was loaded and all the dogs were reined to sled, Rig brought out one of the flags. Thankfully, none of the markers had been destroyed, for Rig had been keeping them in a small, wooden chest. He left them to plant their flag.

XIX

While they waited, Saba looked around her. Her brothers, Tamill and Dingo were already squeezing through their reins. Saba wondered if she would ever have a chance to take the weight of the sled. She felt certain she could do it. It would make the journey to Anchorage a little interesting. She watched as the others ready themselves with their reins.

Why not

Saba slipped past her sisters, towards the sled's nose. She stopped next to Tamill and whispered in his ear.
' Please, Let me have a go.'

' What' cried Tam. Saba nipped his ear, warning him to be quiet. He clenched his teeth.' Are you serious?'

' Shhhhhhh. Yes. Go! Take my place. PLEASE!'

' But Saba....'

' No questions. Just go.'

' We're going to be in SO much trouble.' he muttered, slipping out of his reins and sneeking away.

Chilla nudged his reins with her nose, flipped over her head and put them on. Nobody had noticed this move. Or so she thought.

' Sabaaaaaaaaaaaa!' scowled Balto.

' Hey, look. I've been working for this.'

' SABA.' her father said.' NO! Now, get back to your place.'

' But Dad...'

' NOW!'

' Okay, kids. Lets get to it.'

Mr Ground had returned.

Saba smiled. Now no one will stop her.

As the Musher stepped onto the sled, Balto turned to check on his team. When his eyes rested on Saba, he shook his head.

'Wait till we get to Anchorage.' he growled.

***

Saba almost regreted her decsion. Hours after they left camp, her limbs began give way. She had expected the baggage to be heavy. But never thought she would feel discomfort so soon.

They were crossing the wildreness towards the mountains. The storm had started again and the sky had darkend since their departure. Mr Ground'd goal was to cross snowy lands before stopping to rest midway, then continue the in the morning. As for Rig. Rig was silent throughout the journey. Everytime Saba turned her head to see if he was alright, he would tug the reins, which indicated the musher wanted her to focus.

Saba wonderd if he knew she wasn't Tamill.

Perhaps he did not care, or maybe...

What if...

Saba frowned. Since the night they stole away and raced ahead of their opponents, the Musher's mood had changed. He seemed preoccupied.

Then the howling started.

It caused Aleu's head to jerk up and sniff the air. Nobody could see where the cry were coming from. Their eeri greeting made Saba shudder. The young dog wished the sky wasn't so dark.

Saba felt sick.

Her bones could not take the weight of the sled anymore. Her knees started to buckle underneagh her.

Her head dropped...

Her paws dropped...

The whole world turned to night...

'SABAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!'

Saved by Tamill's roar, Saba awoke from her blackout.

***

The sled's reins jerked.

Saba let out a sigh.

They had run for nearly seven hours. The storm had long passed on. Perhaps they were not yet near Anchorage. Yet it felt so good to stop. She cuaght her breath and shake the snow off her coat.

She looked back. One glance at the sled, she realised instantly why they had halted.

The steel of the sled had broken off!

Cursing darkly, Rig stepped out of the sled and went to inspect it.

'Come off. The beast must' ve done it.'

Saba wished they knew for certain what '' beast '' it was. Then she wondered if she should return to her old place with Chilla.

' Listen!' cried Aleu,' Whatever is that?'

Saba pricked her ears. The noise was familiar. She wondered where she had heard it before. Was it a moter car? No. No one could make it through the snowy wilderness by wheel.

She listened hard.

A though struck her that the sound was coming from the sky. The noise grew louder and louder.

' IT'S DUKE' breathed Balto,' It has to be!'

The plane's engine was unmistakeable now. They waited, hearts beating fast.

At long last, a familiar dot appeared behind through the clouds. It was the Balto Flyer. Duke had found them.

'Will he make it?'Jenna asked, gazing up at the plane in doubt.

' Yes, he will,' Balto nodded.' Watch.'

Balto Flyer's engine roared warm gusts of air, as it neared the ground. Snow scatted in its wake. Gracefully, Duke's plane dropped and landed safely, on the ground.
Unable to hold his joy, Balto reared up and started barking his greetings. Saba and the others joined in.

Duke took off his gloves and shifted out of the cockpit. He left the plane and ran quickly towards them. Saba could see his face, full of concern. Duke guessed that something was wrong. Though he was a pilot, maybe he could help them.

'You in bad shape, sir?' asked Duke, when he reached them.

'Get off!' snapped Mr Ground.' I'm fine.'

'What seems to be the problem.'

' Minor manufunction.'

Duke bent down and inspected the sled.

'Your sled's in rough shape sir. Something chewed the wood. It's broken in two.'

' I'm aware of that.'

' Well.' Duke puased, as if he sensed the musher's mood. It was clear now, that Rig's blind determination to got to Anchorage, dispite problems and the hard toil, was his main focas.' Well, I'm no expert on sleds. But that sled isn't going anywhere. Eather we wait here until help arrives. Or, I'll fly ahead to Fairbanks and they'll send another sled down to you.'

Rig said nothing.

' Sir?'

' Do as you like, Sir. I want to start on soon... ' he too puased, as if thinking.

'I'll be back in a few hours.' the pilot said. ' I maybe back during nightful, just to check on you. Stay here and make camp. Set up a campfire, in case I can't find you. G'day, Sir.'

As he walked past him, Duke patted Balto on the head, fondly. Balto let him. Then Duke pulled out from his coat - pocket a rashonal bar, which Balto took and shared with Jenna. Saba watched this exchanged from afar, warmed by the deep friendship between this man and her father.

'You take care of yourself, Balto.'said Duke, warmly. 'It's you we want back home, not the First Prize Cup.'

He strode back to his plane. Saba, Balto, Jenna, Kodi, Aleu, Tamill, Chilla and Dingo watched him leave. Rig remained silent. As Duke jumped aboard, a sick feeling filled Saba's heart.

The engine started again. The blade moved and the tail left the ground. With a last wave, Duke guided Balto Flyer through the vast, empty land. Faster and faster it rolled, until it lifted lightly off the snow. The plane soared upward, touching the clear sky. Everyone stood gazing at it, before it disappeared through the clouds.

Mr Ground shifted his leg and hopped to the sled. Both dog and wolf watched as he inspected the wood one last time.

'Phssssst, Saba! Phssssssssssssst!'

Her father voice caught her attention. He looked at her warningly.

' Get back to your place,' his tone was pleading. Saba needed no second warning. Shifting out of her reins, she hurried to Tamill, who was also out of his reins.

He winked at her,

' Not bad, ' he said,' For a beginner.'

Saba smiled.

' Thanks, brother.'

' Balto,' Jenna whispered, looking back at Rig.' What's going to happen?'

' I don't know, Jenna.' Balto frowned,' I don't know.'

Mr Ground found a long leather rope. He strapped around the wood and steel and tared it. When it had dryed for some time, he got up, fed the dogs, adjusted the baggage ropes, before setting himself onto the sled.

Saba and others waited. When Duke returned, he will not know where to find them. If anything happend, nobody, not Duke, not Ragnel, or anyone will be able to locate them.

Rig stared out into the horizon.

' For Nome.' he said, then shouted ' HIKE!'

XIX

'Dad!' Balto's well-built son, Dingo yelled to his father in a rough voice. Balto's ears pricked as he tried to catch whatever he was saying.

It had been two hours since they left their camp. They had marked their route and still showed no signs of any rest. Rig seemed eager to go on. But for how long. Dingo listened as his mother, brothers and sisters panted hard as they struggled to stay awake. They were exhusted from the today's events and had had little sleep, since they had crept away from their sleeping opponauts, during the the dead of night. Before raceing away to win the lead.

'We...puff puff...we're running low, do you know when is the next stop?' Dingo cried..

'Rig knows.' Balto replied,'Don't complain. We'll stop soon.'

Dingo was about to argue, when Tamill who ran shoulder to shoulder with him, turned his head and breathed in his ear.

'It's called Fairbanks. They'll have planty of fish and plenty of supplise there'

'Hopefully have plenty of beds.'remarked Dingo, he had never in his life been so tired. And it was all becuase of those unknown invaders. He would sink his teeth on whoever they were. 'Do you know how long it wil take to get there?'

'No idea, I've never been there. Never been this far from our home before.'

'Neather have I.' Dingo nodded. He sighed. Home

***

'What's he doing?' he asked, later after they finally stopped. Not in a town but on a small hill, over-seeing a little plain. Trees with mountains ahead on one side, a shoreline with rock formations on the others. Dingo gazed longingly at the water.

He glanced back at Mr Ground, who scaned the scene with a squinted eyes. He didn't move.

Dingo felt something touch him by the forepaw. It was Chilla, she had slumped down on the soft snow and stretched her neck so that her head would rest and she breathed easily.

Dingo licked her paw, kindly.

' Don't worry sis, only a few more yards to go and...?'

He didn't finish. He had felt the tug of the reins and they were off. Dingo looked ahead...

...and saw that they were making over the open plain. Not towards the shore, but towards the mountains.

'What!' he shouted,

'Dad, I can't make it.' Chilla said, faintly. Her voice sounded far away. Balto did not hear her. Dingo, seeing that it was hopeless, gathered all his remaining strengh and pulled hard at the sled and caught up with his sister.

' You can do this sis, I will help you.' he comforted her. Chilla manged a smile both they and Tamill ran like mad dogs after the team.

The gentle snowfall went on to be a storm!

It covered their vision like a fog.They could no longer see the peaks of the mountains in the horizon. The gap they were looking for would be difficult to find.

Let alone climb, thought Balto, grimly. He had decided that when their team reached the foot of the mountains, he will be forced to halt.

He didn't care what the others thought. We can't go on like this.

At last they reached the foot. Before Balto could lift another paw, he heard Rig Ground shout.

' Whoa!'

The sled came to a halt. Balto sighed with relief. But he gasped as Rig got off the sled and started walking stiffly. He walked past his team, patting a few on the head as he went. Then he went on ahead of them, along the mountain-side. The dogs watched him inspect the rocks. Balto squinted his eyes, so that he could get a better focus.

If we lose him in this snow, he thought to himself, We may not be able to find him.

To his horror, Rig went on, until he was out of sight. The storm had covered his dark form, replacing with a white film. Rig was nowhere to be seen. The wind howled suddenly. Balto heard a whine. It was Saba.

' Tamill,' Balto called to his son, who was standing next to Dingo.' Tamill, is the sled got a stopper?'

He waited as Tamill inspected the sled.

' No Dad, the sled is detached .'

' Good.' Balto said. ' We can move. That way we can...'

' Look, Balto!' cried Jenna, gazing at somthing ahead of them. Balto looked and to his joy there was Rig, limping back to them with smile in his face.

' I found it!' he cried, joyfully. Balto never saw him so happy.' I found the Gap through the mountains!'

Balto's heart sank but before he could do anything, Rig grabbed his rains and tugged them. Balto felt the sled move. The dogs followed their driver, passing the wall of rocks.

At last they came to an opening. Rig entered in, leading the team with the sled. Balto, his mind full of dread, was forced to move with it.

The path seemed level. After limping a dozen yards from that gap in the mountains, Mr Rig Ground returned to his former place on the sled and urged the team into a run.

They ran for several minutes, before the path narrowed and steepend. Balto felt the ground slope. He was certain they were in for more difficulties.

He was proven correct.

The path scaled and soon the team were climbing a steep, narrow pathway. Balto felt like he was climbing with a huge load behind his back. The snow was like a torrent, cascading down onto their faces. Blinding them, smothering them weighing them with sheer force and power. Balto struggled to get to the end of this route. Blindly, he ran on half-climbing, half-stubbling up the steep path the top.

At long last they made it. Balto struggled onto new ground followed by Jenna and the rest. But when he had gone a few paces, Balto nearly stopped in surprise!

The wind had nearly caught him off-guard. Balto gasped as he nearly got thrown back by the emense strength of it.

' We can't stay here,' he whispered, pushing hard against the wind. The team ran in a slow pace.

Now that they were on a high, rocky ground and there, the team could see, clearly their location. They were on a high ledge, on a mountain-side. How far from the ground were they, Balto could not tell. The ledge was wide enough, but it continued to lead them further up. The stairway was endless and Balto's fears arose.

A cold hand clutched his heart.

This is crazy, he thought, we should of waited down in the open, away from these mountains. We can't go on. We can't go on!

He stopped at his tracks. He felt Jenna's fur as she too halted. The rest did the same.

For the first time in ages, Balto looked back at them. His family were looking anxiously in every direction. Balto noted a spark of terror in Saba's and Jenna's eyes. Chilla looked half-dead, Dingo, Kodiak and Tamill were supporting them. Aleu sniffed the air for any signs of it creasing. Balto was about to comfort them, when he rembered their musher.

Rig was on the sled, his face showing an expression of surprise and anger. Balto, (though he understood) didn't budge.

Rig bellowed to him.

' Balto! HIKE!'

Balto swollowed,

I know what you want, Balto thought, I know we can't stay here. But we're in danger if we keep running like this.

' Besides...' a thin, cold voice said. Balto turned and saw with surprise it was Aleu who was speaking. She had read his thoughts!

' THERE IS SOMETHING ELSE WITH US.' she said, grimly.

For a few minutes, Balto stared at her. Then he turned his focus to look at the blank world around them. '

' Balto!' shouted Rig,' Hike! Hike! HIKE! HIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIKE!'

But a wild vison. Dark, brawny and terrible had covered his cry. Standing on it's robust haunches. it capped Balto's vison for one split second, then was gone.

' BALTO! BALTO!!!'

Alerted by Rig's urgent and impatient warning, Balto's eyes flicked open. He realised to his wonder that he had been slumbering in the middle of a storm. He blinked. They were still on the ledge. The sky was still black over their heads. The wind had calmed a bit, but the snow was still hailed on.

' BALTO! BALTO!!!'

You must not fail him.

The smell voice had haunted Balto's mind since they left Koyuk. Balto knew he had to go on. Willing or unwilling. He straighten himself and prepared to begin the run.

A low growl caused him to stop dead. He heard Jenna scream.

Then the floor of the ledge suddenly gave way. To Balto's horror, his felt the ground crack from underneagh him. He was slipping down the ledge. Jenna slipped too, the others stumbling after them. Balto caught a glimpse of Rig. His face was a mask of shock. The sled tipped over and fell after them.

XXI

With shouts and cries, the team slid, fast down the icey slope. The sled fell after them. While he was falling, Balto remembered an old trick of his.

Digging his plaws through the snow, Balto gripped the rock from underneath. For one brief second, he felt the weight of the sled. Luggage and all. Balto felt it pulling him apart. Clentching his jaws in desperation, he gripped the ledge. He felt the end was near. Then it lessened.

Time froze.

' Is there anyone hurt?' called Balto, dreadeding it would be so. He waited, anxiously for a reply.

' I'm alright.'

' Fine, dear.'

' We're okay, Dad.'

Jenna and his pups were in perfect line, fixed to the slope as he was. Their expressions were similer. Grim, but determined. Balto sighed with relief. They were all safe.

For the moment.

A cry from Tamill caused all heads to turn.
' Where's Rig.' The sled was hanging down the slope, but there was no sign of their musher.

Rig had gone.

Balto gritted his teeth with anger mixed with fear and worry, his heart throbbed against his chest. Mr Ground was gone. They had lost him.

Then he heard it again. A low growl! Balto looked up. His heart stopped beating! There, in midst of the thick blizzerd, a huge black shape appeared. It's legs were like thick logs and it's eyes (which open suddenly in a eeri way) were like twin lamps.

Balto blinked in disbelief.
'Oh no.' he whispered,

The bear ploughed through the snow towards them. For first time in his life, Balto was stuck. He didn't know what to do. They were trapped between a grizzly bear and a bottomless pit. There was no getting out. The bear towered over them.

'Balto!' Jenna cried.' What is it?'

'Ha-ha-hang on, Honey.' Balto reasured her.'Just hang on!'

He could see the Bear's teeth, glinting and tipped like iciles. It's breath was warm, as it growled and grunted. Behind him, Balto heared Jenna gasp. She had seen the bear. The others must of seen it too, but nether one of them moved. Dispite the threat, Balto was greatful by their courage. Like him, Kodaki, Chilla, Dingo, Alau, Tamill and Saba had already seen the odds. His pups were much braver than he had ever imagened.

He wished they had never entered this race. Gazing up at the monster, Balto waited. Ready to feel it's claws rack his skin and force them down.

' Papa!' a voice froze his thoughts. It was Aleu. And she was quivering.' It's...it's...' she stuttered.

' It's what!' Balto gasped looking down at her.

' It's going to be okay.'

' WHAT!' exclaimed Balto. Had she gone completely mad?

She smiled. Balto shuddered at that smile. He glanced at Jenna. But Jenna's face was hidden against her paws. The others, paying no attenion to Aleu's craze were gazing at the bear in horror. A deathly hush had settled upon them. The bear drew closer.

' We have to jump...' Aleu started.

' DON'T !' he snapped,' Let me think.'

' But there's no time.'

That's true and my duaghter has been right before, Balto thought, but can't be possible! He remembered when he and Aleu once faced another bear and escaped by Aleu's own ability to read thoughts. Somehow, she had been able to read the creature's mind. Was this a similer recap.

Balto look up at the bear. Its eyes glinted hungrily as it inched closer. It roared in hunger.

This bear was no vision. Even if it did attack, they would still fall. And if he allowed that happen, the bear will fall with them.

He swollowed.

'We have to jump.' he said, simply. His voice sounded strangely atone, amid the howling of the wind..

'JUMP!'echoed the Kodi.

'Don't argue. Get ready everybody!'

'Balto! No! We'll be killed.'Jenna cried.

'And we'll be killed if we don't.' Balto said to her. 'Jenna, We have no choice.' He stared at his aching paws. He felt the bears breath as it drew nearer. He held his breath.

' When I give the word, we let go of the ledge.'

Nobody replied. It looked to them like the end was near. Balto felt the bear's warm breath touch his neck. There was no time to lose.

'NOW!'

In a dizzy moment, they let go of the rock. Once again, Balto felt the burden of the sled pull him down.

It dragged them.

The whole body of the team fell away from the bear, who swung its paw over the space were Balto's head had been!

Roaring with anger, the bear tried to reach him. But Balto and his family already were far from reach.

As Balto squeezed his eyes shut and waited for a sickening thud.

Tink

The sound ringed like chime. Like a tiny bell.

Opening his eyes, Balto and once a again gripped the rock. The foot of the sled had hit something! Could it be a rock? He looked down. He gave a slight choke, almost letting go of the rock. There, below them was a wide ridge which on eather lay a path. They had fallen barely seventy yards.

'Easy, gang.' said Balto.'Nice and slow.' They hung there like a rope ladder. Balto looked up. He couldn't see the bear.

' Tam, Dingo, everyone! Climb down. Slowly does now. Slowly.'

In a few minutes, they were on the ground, Safe. Balto shook himself. They had made it. They had made alive.

'That was...unexpected.' gasped Jenna, shaking.

'I know. ' Balto grinned,' And yet...Oh Jenna we're safe.'

'But how did you know?' Tamill asked, turning to gaze at Aleu. Aleu returned it, without an expression.

'Aleu.' Balto said, walking up to her. Aleu looked up.' This is becoming a habit, isn't it.'

'I know, it's weird. And yet...'she started.

'What?'cried Dingo, impaitently.'YET WHAT? How did you know. What happened up there?'

'Your sister has a gift of seeing things.' Balto said.

'Eh?'

'Balto,' Jenna cried,' she can't have.'

  'You knew that the ledge was here?' Saba asked Aleu, her eyes wide.

Aleu nodded

'But how?'

'I'm not sure. But I've had this vision since I left the sea. It's been guiding me for as long I remember.'

'Spooky.' commeted Dingo

'Dad, look.' a cry from Kodiak caught everyone's attention. A little away from them, facing the snow, lay a body of a man. His head resting on the crook of his arm.

'Rig!' Balto gasped, racing past the row of dogs to where he lay. Aware of him, Mr Ground raised his head and gazed up at Balto.

' I'm sorry, boy.' he whispered.' This is all my fault.' he collasped, suddenly.

Balto inspected the leg. It looked striaght. The poll was undamaged. If they could drag him onto the sled...

A low growl surprised them.

Balto groaned.

'Oh no, you can't be serious.' he said, shaking his head. Everyone looked up, especting to see the bear jumping off the rock. But the creature did not appear. There was a sound of shuffling. Balto realised that the Bear was making it's way, down the path towards their ridge.

Awakened by the Bear's growl and Balto's yelp, Rig raised his head again. Seeing the sled, he struggled up and crawled towards it. With great effort, the Musher reached up and grasped the steel. He looked groggedly up at the dogs. Balto understood.
'Mush! MUSH! GO! Go! Go! Go!'

They shot off down the track. Half slipping, half running. Down and down they went. Behind them there came a loud roar. Balto's head shot back.

Don't look back

'What's that Jenna?' Balto asked. Jenna glanced at him, strangely.

'I didn't say anything.' she said, panting.

Don't look back, My Son.

'Mother,' he breathed.'It's good to know your there. Thank you.'

They ran on for a few more minutes. Away from the ridge, away from the bear and away from the mountains.

The night was dark when the team halted in a clearing near the foot of the mountain. Looking up Balto could see the plain with trees dotted around it. They were back on the clearing. Back to where they started.

Mr Rig Ground, his hand still on the sled was shaking uncontrolably. Both Jenna and Balto walked over to him.

Jenna hovered over him, worriedly.
'Balto, what do we do?'she asked. Balto didn't reply. He was too tired.

Sighing, Jenna pulled out a blanket from the sled and covered Rig with it. Rig did not stir. While she did this, Balto cast a look towards his pups.

He breathed a sigh of relief.
'I am so proud of you all.' He said,, softly. They came and nuzzled him. Dispite the loss of time, Rig broken hurts and their near death experiance, Balto smiled with relief and joy. He was so proud of his pups. Together they had faced a danger and mastered their fears.

Dingo grinned, as he broke away from his father.
'We did it. US against that bear.'

'Papa did it.' Saba corrected him. She went over and nuzzled her father.' Papa, you saved us. You brought us out of danger.'

  ' Hooray for Dad.'cheered Tamill.

  'Thanks for saving our skins, Dad.' Kodiak said, nuzzling him.

Balto gazed at each pup with such warmth and love. His eyes rested on Aleu lastly. He licked her nose.

'I know it was hard to leave your clan, Aleu. But I am so glad you came.'

Aleu nodded
'You too, Papa.'she smiled.

'Now what?' asked Dingo.' We're back to where we started.'

'Do we go on.' Kodiak asked.' Or stay and make camp?'

Everyone waited as Balto thought for a momment. He glanced at Rig then at the sled.

'We go on. To Fairbanks.'

XXII

' I forgot why Aleu came here in the first place,' Jenna said, her head drooped.

' Oh yeah, I remember now.' Balto nodded, thoughtfully. He too had rememberd Alue's dream. How long ago it seemed since we were in Koyuk.

Sitting outside a cabin, in the town of Fairbanks, the two both looked up at the starry sky. While the others slept, Balto and Jenna stole out into the night for a breath of fresh air.

No one was about. There were not many inhabitants in Fairbanks and hardly any accomidation. The humans though had been seeking them and had with them an provisions and aid. As soon as they saw Rig Ground still body on the sled, they rushed to help him. A man brought a sling, and four men carried Mr Ground away with them.

Others took the dogs into a shed and there they were fed.

Tierd and worn out, the family lay on the soft blankets the humans had prepared. Finally they could rest. Safe and warm.

' In her dream...' Jenna went on,' Aleu said something...about a cliff...us on a cliff...and...we disappeaered...Oh, Balto!'

' This isn't like you, Jenn. I should be the one who takes dreams seriously. Not you.'

She shot a look at him. Balto flinched.
' I always took your dreams seriously,' she said, rushedly.' It may of not looked like it. But deep down, I did. What if it happening again.'

' What could of happened, did happen, Jen.' Balto corrected.' It's all over now.'

' I really hope so.' she sniffed.

He stared at her, unmoving.

' It was clear as ice, Jen. Our daughter said she saw us in a storm. Everyone was there except for her. Which is why Aleu came here. She thought she could alter the future and it worked.It happened.'

He licked his mate's soft, red fur.

' It would of been fatal if Aleu hadn't of showed up. She was our loophole. To save us and win this race.'

For the first time, Jenna raised her head and looked up at him, hopefully.

' It's more important that our family is safe and together again.' she said, softly.

' Yeah. Beats everything, dosen't it?' nuzzling her, lovingly.' Shall we go out for a stroll?'

Jenna smiled

'Do you think they will let us.' she wondered, looking around.

'Nobody around, is there. Come on. Lets chase a few sticks.'

*****

'Your sure that's what he said.' Balto's first question was the next morning. On their way back from their midnight stroll, Balto and Jenna had met a dog, called Welk. He had just come to inform them about Mr Ground.

Rig was in bad shape.The fall had left him cold. Worse, his leg splint had opened. Netherless, he was awake now.

' The first thing your master said was '' How are the dogs'' .' said Welk. ' The town doctor wants him to stay in Fairbanks.'

' And Mr Ground?'

' Very eager to leave as soon.'

Balto nodded grimly,

' He dosen't want to wait for Maximous and Sulski to arrive.' he mumured,' He is stubborn soul.'

' Okay, gang.' Balto said to his pups, later.' Listen up. We rest here for a bit. Later, we go on!'

There was a low moan from Chilla, the others sat silent.

'Mr Ground has left the clinic, with a new determination. He wants to start early, before Lurth and the others reach this town. How he will do it, I don't know. But I am powerless to stop him. He keen to finish the Trail Run Race. So we must not only continue for him, but be alert. Help him. Keep an eye on him at all times.'

Kodi and the others nodded,

' We may not be able to make the useul run. But at lest we can keep up in the lead.'

' I second that.'

Balto turned to face the stranger that had entered the shed unnoticed.

' Ragnel!' he cried out in surprise.

And so it was. The brown poodle and his duaghter Missy walked towards with a proud air. With them was trotted Welk. The Meyor of Koyuk was also with the, talking to the keeper who was taking care of them.

Ragnel hailed,

' Greetings Sir Balto. All well I trust?'

' We've had a rough route. But what are you doing here?'

' Didn't my Meyor tell you...Oh, never mind...I tell you. We came by locamotive. Train, you know that stuff. We hopped on one, an hour after you left. I tell, you we met the most horrible storm on the way. And were stuck. Still, at least it sheltered us and it was warm.'

' Lucky you.' grumbled Chilla.

' You weren't invited,' Missy sniffed,

' After the storm,' Ragnel went on.' the humens cleared the snow off the train tracks and we continued our way to this little town. We've just arrived and were overjoyed to hear you were the first team to reach it.'

' WHEN your OWN team didn't make it first.' Dingo remarked.' I like your cheerleadingww`.'

Before Ragnel could reply, Missy stepped up.

' You must understand, we only support the winners.' she said,' Not losers'

There was a stunned silence. Balto eyed the lady poodle, sternly. She was a elegent, beautiful dog. Her long lashes seemed to cover every expression she held.

Balto remembered his first sight of Missy. Behind the cabin in Koyuk, in the early hours of the morning. Her pitch black fur blended in the night sky. And dainty was her walk, she had barely left a footprint on the snow. Then he remembered the dog who had pursued her. Vallcon, Lurth's son. He had followed her, like a shadow. And out of what? Love?

She had responded very cooly towards him. Cold and hard was her tone as she refused to his desperate pleas.

'OH! Buzz off!' What good could a wolf do?'

What good? thought Balto, WHAT GOOD! Instead of supportint that poor young wolf - dog. She turns to me. I , a well-known half-wolf! If she could only hear herself speak.

Beauty can cover an ugly soul. The only beautiful creature Balto had ever met, with a soul as pure and kind as it was angelic, he found it in Jenna. No one had much faith in him before he became a hero, except his dear Jenna.

XVIII

Rig eyed the sled, wearily. They were standing outside the woodyard. Two days had past since they arrived at Fairbanks. Rig had recovered and was seeing to their needs.

Jon, the carpenter, had seen to their new sled.

'Try it, Sir.'

Mr Ground looked uncertain. The family looked up at him with concern.

' I don't think I can.'

' Need any help, Sir?'

' Yeah.'

The carpenter helped him onto the sled. Mr Ground, gingerly grasped the reins and stood up straight.

' Give her a few turns, Sir. If your happy with her, we'll help you load her up and then you'll be on your way.' said Jon. Ground grunted in reply. He gave a shill whistle. Chilla and the others started off!

While they were in the middle of their test, Chilla heard a hoarse coagh behind her.

Rig

The musher steered the sled and the team started back to Fairbanks. As they ran, Rigs coaghing grew louder and louder. It sounded painful. Chilla glanced back. Mr Ground was leaning over his sled, his face pale.

' He'll never going to make it like that,' Chilla told herself.

' OH NO!' a shrill cry from Saba cuaght everyone's attention.

' What?' asked Chila, staring at her sister.

' It's them!'

' Who?'

' That awful lot.' Saba responded. ' Nero, Steele, Lurth and the others....they've caught up this us.'

Chilla looked anxouisly about her, until her eyes cuaght sight of two moving dots coming from the direction of the mountains.

Steele and Lurth!

They had found them.

Everyone groaned, but Balto did not utter a word. Chilla wondered what he was thinking.

She glanced back at Mr Ground again. His eyes were covered by his cap.

We failed you, Papa! Chilla's ears drooped, We failed you both!

As they past Ground's sled, Mr Maximous leaned over.

' Didn't think I would lose, did yer?'

Mr Ground didn't answer. Ted Maximous edged his team on. Chilla's heart sank. Yet before she could think of anything else, Steele's head appeared beside hers. She caught a glance of his wide, grinning smile. She knew there wasn't anything they could do. He drew near Balto's lead and lingered there. Balto teurned to meet his enemy's eye.

' Well, Bingo,' Steele tuated,' Now they will know who's the fastest dogs in this Run.'

Beside him, Nero gave a snort and to Chilla's dismay, his team (incuding Koltav who gave them a wink) doubled quick and moved on. Past the boundry, past Fairbanks, into the wilderness.

Chilla felt like crying. They had lost the race.

Just then, Chilla heard a gasp and Lurth's face appeared behind her shoulder. Followed Athera, Vallcon and the rest of the team. Soon both teams were running side by side. Like Ted, Sulski learned aside to talk to Rig.

' Caught up with you at last, you sly old rogue.' said Sulski in good - humoredly.

Rig managed a smile.

' You sure did.'

' You feel okay?'

' I'm fine.'

' Well, see you in Faibanks. HIKE! HIKE!'

They sped off towards the town.

' Well,' Balto panted,' At least we gave them a scare, they won't forget.'

' HOLD! Stop, Dad! Hold the sled!'

It was Tam's voice. From his tone, Chilla could tell that something was seriously wrong.

The sled came to a halt.

' What is it now.' snapped Balto, eyeing Tamill. Then his eyes widened. Chilla turned. Mr Ground's whole frame was bent over the sled. His arms had fallen lifelessly, his head was down. Learning towards the nose of the sled, Dingo and Tamill were trying to support the limp figure of Mr Ground. But their reins were too short. They could barely reach him.
' Do something!' pleaded Tam.

As he said this, Rig's body fell from the sled. Chilla gasped. Both she and the others rushed out to him. They huddled around their musher, sniffing his face. Balto shouted out.
'Stand back,' he said, sternly.' Give him air. Chilla, keep him warm. Kodiak, run back to town and get help.

Kodi nodded and he sped off.

Chilla nosed Rig's knee. She couldn't tell if the man's tempeture was cold or not. His skin was wrapped with folds of cloth and protection. But as she gazed at it, the body trembled and started shaking. Rig gave another groan. Fear ranged through her heart.
Fear and concern mingled as she stared at him,
What do we do! she cried. What do we do!

Mr Sulski sarted form his sled and looked behind him. Rig, his friend was down. His team crowded around him.

He could hear them, whimpering.
The old musher sigh, he had forsaw this might happen.

Steering his team, he changed corse...

Towards the fallen Musher.

' We can't go on.' said Balto to his family.

' What do you mean we can't. Why not.' asked Dingo, furiously,

' Rig is spent. His leg is in a very bad shape. And he's cuaght some type of fever. We won't be able to go on with the Trail Run.'

Dingo slumped onto the ground,
' But we were so close.'

The family were back in the shed in Fairbanks. It had been a few hours since the other teams overtooke them and Mr Ground's fall.

Mr Sulski had carried Rig back to Fairbanks, where a doctor and some nurses were waited with Kodi. Kodiak had somehow convinced them that something was wrong. As soon as he had found the clinic, he had to dragged the man who looked (and smelled) like a doctor. Both he and his staff had been seeing to Rig, and guessed that it had something to do with him. They all carried Mr Ground back to the clinic. Dispite the race and his risk in losing to Ted Max, Sulski stayed by his friend. He had allowed his lead - dog and Balto to come with them. Neather Blato or Lurth spoke during the waiting hours. Balto was worried for Rig and embaressed to be around Lurth. Lurth did not feel like talking. His team had also suffered problems, while they were chasing Balto's team. Now they had finally caught them, they needed to pursue Nero's team. He didn't want to lose to Nero.

After many hours, the medic appeared and told them that Mr Ground's blood rate had gone low and he would have to be removed to a infirmary.

' But what about Rig?' Chilla asked Balto, after he broke the bad news to them,' It was all about him, winning this race.'

' Nothing,' Balto replied, bitterly.' We're his team. We can't do anything without him. We must go home.'

' It would be a pity.' Jenna remarked, sadly.' To depart the race, without finishing it.'

'Yes.' a voice behind them said. ' It would.'

In walked Lurth, followed by Vallcon and Athera. Chilla felt her blood boil, but she kept herself back. Beside her Dingo bared his teeth and snarled at Sulski's lead - dog.

' What do you want?'

' Dingo!' Balto's voice was raised.

Lurth ignored Dingo. He stared straight at Balto.
'You were far ahead of us. Not a bad lead.' Balto pricked his ears. It was the first time Lurth contemplated on their actions. 'You put us off our guard. Sneeking away like that. Put us to the test'

' Your welcome. What was your road like?'

' Pretty harsh. This whole thing is pretty harsh. All my members except for these two are spent. We cut across a river, but that only made it worse for us.'

' Well, looks like you've got it all under paw now.'

' Wait a tick.' Lurth said, patiently, 'Perhaps we can help each other. Sulski's is talking to Rig about joining his team with your team.' Balto's eyes widened, but said nothing.
'It will work, ' went on Lurth,' If we formed up, together.' he nodded to Vallcon and Athera,' These two are the only ones who are able to go on. The rest are in bad condition. Together, with Sulski we can catch up with Ted Maximous and Nero and win this race.'

Chilla's jaw dropped. It was good plan. Balto sat silent as he listened to Lurth

' Even if the humans agree, I don't see how this is going to help our driver, Lurth.' he said afterwards.

' Let me explain. If we lose; we get nothing. But if win, Sulski and Ground split the money between them. Then we can all go home.'

' Sulski's a good man.' Balto nodded. He thought for a moment, staring up at the wooden boards. Then stealing a glace at Jenna, heaved a sigh.
' We would miss him terribly.'

' Yes.' whispered Jenna,' But what good for him, is good for us. I believe we would be doing a good favour for him and Mr Sulski.'

' Very well, Lurth.' Balto announced, turning to their new friend. ' If Rig agrees, we would be pleased to accept your offer.'

XXIV

Tamille could not eat anything that day. The thought they were going to leave Fairbanks soon, leaving Rig behind felt wrong.

Aside from that, many miles away, Steele, Nero, Ted and their team were ahead of them, gaining the lead. Tam felt sick thinking about it. He tried to tuck in his evening meal, but could not.

'Here wolfies,' Sulski said. Tamille pricked his ears at this strange protocall, 'Here wolfie, wolfie, wolfies.' They all gathered around thir new musher.

'Well,' he started,' We're not hanging around here all day, are we?'

***

They left Fairbanks early that evening. To Tamill's dispair, Mr Ground was not there to see them off.
We'll never see him again, he thought sadly.

In front of him, ran Vallcon and Athera. Neather spoke to him, but Tamille did not mind. Now that Rig was no longer with them, he did not feel in the mood in socalizing to anyone yet. Perhaps Lurth, Vallcon and Athera felt the same.

Instead of talking, Tamille studied all three of them, carefully.

Vallcon ( who was the closest ) was tough looking half-breed. His muscles rippled under his gray coat, which made him look five times bigger.

Athera, was the smallest out of the three. To Tamille's surprise, she ran next to Vallcon, making her one of the dogs who carried most of the weight. Dispite her hight, she was quite a strong creature and swifter.

Lurth (who had replaced Balto) ran side-by-side with Tam's father, leading the team. His whole frame was alert as he focused on their route.

' Soon as we catch up with them, they'll be by the boundry of Anchorage.' Tamille heard Lurth say to Balto.

' Thats good to know.' Balto said grimly. Tamille wondered if his father did mind Lurth leading his team. He did not mention it to them in his call, that he would leading it.

' What do you think?' Balto asked him.

' Do it your way,' Lurth panted, ' Theives in the night.'

'But we'll lose the race!' Saba protested. Tamille bit his lip.

Maybe we're wasting our time. Should we even bother with this!

Then he remembered his father telling him about the race the Mail dogs had to finish a year ago. They had almost lost to Duke and his first plane. Duke nearly won, but on the way back, he was forced go down because of bad weather. He lost the race and the job, but thanks to Balto and Kodiak, he was able to finish his way in the race.

Duke knew he had lost, but wanted to finish the race, dispite he needed help.

As if he read his thoughts, Balto said lightly. ' It dosen't matter, we're going to finish this Trail Run Race, once and for all.'

Hours later, they reached the boundry. Night had settled and through the blackness, Tamille saw that they were coming through a clear snowy mile.

Since it was too dark and the young dog was fastened to the back, Tamille could not make out what kind land lay ahead. He hoped they were clear away from mountains, bears and rivers.

Just as he was thinking this, a loud eeri voice broke out. The howling went on for several minutes, then faded away.

' That's odd. You don't get wolves in Anchorage.' Athera said to her friend.' The population of people there are vast compered to other towns.'

' No,' Vallcon responded.' Not a lot.'

Surprised by the unexpected conversation, Tamille bent his head to hear what they were saying.

' Better hope they leave us alone,' Athera went on, sniffing the air as she did.' If their hungry, things might turn nasty.'

' It won't.' Vallcon said in a tone of disinterest.' If they did, we would overcome them. There are worst things then wolves.'

Tamille wondered what things. What could be worse then a wolf. A bear? Two bears? Maybe a hunter with a gun. He shivered, he was starting to feel very nervious and uneasy about their surroundings. To his surprise, Vallcon went on.

' They're the worst kind, compared to other creatures. And rouges to mans inhabitance. '

' Hey! Hang on.' Tam blerted out,' Who told you all this?'

Vallcon's head turned. He glared. Tamille glared back. He could believe this half wolf-dog was spitting over his roots like like saliva.

' You have a problem.'

' Like you, I do.' Tamille growled. Fuming, Tam forget they were pulling a sled. He forgot the race, instead he ranted at the older dog. Teeth bearing.

Athera glanced back at them, nerviously. Dingo tried to calm things done, though he too looked angry.

Tamille roared,

' My brothers and sisters are pround of our family ties.Our father proved that, my grandmother proved that. Why can't you?'

Poker-faced, Vallcon looked away.

' Just becuase some bratt-faced, snotty poodle told you wolves are nothing, dosen't mean others think the same way.'

Vallcon did not reply

***

After they crossed the clearing, Tamill caught a scent of greenery around them. A forest! He drank it in, inhaling it slowly.

To his surprise Sulski stopped, just beside a glade of the pine which had shelter. The musher got off and planted his flag on the ground.

Through the light of the lantern, Tamill saw he had also planted Rig's flag next to his. Tam smiled, fondly at it.

Meanwhile Ted' s flag was no where to be found. Perhapes he had planted it somewhere else. It would be difficult to spot it in the dark. But Tam wondered if maybe they had not reached the wood at all. Could it be that they had overtaken them. At this wishful thought, Tam felt reasured and waited as Sulski jumped back onto the sled. They were entering the wood. The night grew darker still.

***

It wasn't until they were in it, when Tam remembered his greatest fear.

Bears

He listened intently for any sounds that may relate to those beasts. Tried to control his beating hearting. As if the much. The sled started to rattled due to the roots of the tree. The sound seemed inviting for a bear.

If I don't end up bear meat, Tamill vowed, I will never complain again -

He gasped.

The reins had tugged him. The sled had to stop.

'Easy wolfies.' Sulski calmed the excited team.

Taking his lamp, he stepped past them, one by one. He walked ahaead of them and then stopped withen a few yards. Tam wondered what he was looking at. He squinted his eyes, trying to make out what was. Then Sulski bent down. At last, Tamill could see what he was looking at. A huge tree lay in front of them. The gaps were too norrow to slip through with a sled.

Sulski shook his head and turning, he backed towards the sled. Reaching into one of the bags, he brought out a axe. The dogs watched as he started to cut through the wood.

' We won't continue, in this rate.' muttered Lurth.

Balto nodded,

' No use waiting here, just watching,' he said, shaking off his reins.' Better that do something useful, while we wait. You collect some wood for a fire. While I go and catch us something' he turned the others. ' Tamill. Aleu! You can come with me.'

' Sure, Dad.'

The three walked away from the campsite.

' I wanted some time to talk alone.' Balto said, when they were far away from the others.

'About what, Papa ?' Aleu asked.

'Here's the thing,' Balto started,' We....'

Before he could continue, a growl interupted him and a dark shape appeared from behind a pine tree.

The shadow spoke, it's voice quivering.

' GREETINGS WOLF - DOG!'

XXV

' Who are you?' demanded Aleu.

' Don't you reconise me?'

The stranger walked out of the darkness, into the still, blue moonlight. His face revealed a gaunt face of a wolf. His eyes were red. His huge shoulders hunched, ready for a challenge.

Balto didn't know him but a shrill gasp from Aleu told him that she did.

' THAZE'!' she cried in disbelief.

' Greetings, pet!' the dark wolf sneered. Aleu bared her teeth, viciously at him and snarled back.

Balto looked at her with surprise,
' Who is he?' he asked.' Do you know him.'

' Know him? He killed Hanler, My friend!'

Before anyone could stop her, Aleu flew up and clashed on Thaze. The wolf squirmed out from under her paws. Then he attacked his former leader in the side, spilling Aleu. With a cry, she was forced to the ground.

Balto and Tamill rushed to her aid. Balto got to him first. Biting Thaze, he pulled the wolf off his daughter. Tamill helped him. Thaze kicked both of them in the stomach and lept aside.
' This is my fight, wolf dog!'

' Leave him, Papa.' cried Aleu to Balto, ' He's mine. It's me he's want's to settle with!'

Balto gleared at Thaze,
'You don't stand a chance against three of us, stranger.' he said. Thaze's eyes reddened and attacked. Paws outstetched and teeth bared, he went for Balto's unprotected neck. Aleu and Tam flung herself into his side. Thaze yelped as he fell, still gripping on Balto's neck. Balto struggled, clentching his teeth with pain.

'Let him go!' Kodi appeared out of nowhere followed by Jenna, Dingo, Lurth and Vallcon. He rushed for the wolf's head. Thaze tensed but did not let go of Balto scruff.

Balto remained struggled.

' Let go! Let go!!!' Aleu cried in anguish. They all joined in the fight. They all went for the crazed wolf. Biting, scratching, ripping!

At last Thaze could not stand it any longer. His eyes, red with pain and tiredness screwed shut. He let go of Balto and broke from them.

'I'll be watching,' he yelled as he ran.' Always watching.'

Dingo, Kodi and Tamill started after, ignoring Jenna's pleas. Aleu was about to follow, then stopped when she saw her father's swaying figure.

'Papa.' she whispered.

Jenna rushed to him,
'Balto!'

Balto started up, and then toppled back the ground...lifeless.

' NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!'

XXVI

Balto neather moved, nor spoke since the attack. He did not even open his eyes. The only response he gave was if someone offered food he would blindly sniff it. But in vain, he couldn't swallow the food. When Sulski offered water, it dripped out from his mouth.
Sulski searched him over, trying to find the cause of the problem.

Having finished chopping the tree, he had returned late, to find the only Saba, Chilla and Athera in the camp. The rest were no where to be seen. After calling them for some time, he went to serch for them.

He found them later, standing over the shivering body of Balto. They had staryed by him, afraid to move him. Too scared to leave him. Sulski found a set of wolf tracks belonging to Thaze. With these signs and the marks on his team's injuries, Mr Sulski could guess what had happened and anger burned in him. But he put that aside. Some of the dogs were in terrible pain and Balto lay motionless.

He hurried back to the sled, dragged it to the place where Balto lay. The dogs went with him, wondering what had happened. He set their camp where they were and using all his mastery and wisdom, tried to cure the injured wolf.

While the musher closely examined Balto, Jenna stood by his side, licking her mate's mattered fur. Her face a mask of concern.

From afar, the other dogs waited anxiously.

After a long wait, Sulski finally arose and walked away. His head was low and his face grim. As for Jenna, she was distraught. Hiding her face in Balto's gray fur she cried mournfully.
The other dogs bowed their heads in dejection.

All except Aleu. For a few seconds she stood still as a stone, her eyes and jaw wide open.

She had been watching, worriedly as Sulski worked on her father. Each minute that passed felt like he was sinking away from them.

Leaving Kodi's side, she slowly crept forwards towards her parents. She stared, solemnly into her father's face then turned to faced her mother.

'Mom, get some rest. I'll look after Papa.' she said, quietly.

Jenna didn't reply, but as soon as her daughter spoke, she looked up hopefully.

'Let me look first. Please, Mum.'

Jenna gazed at her, through shimmering eyes and Aleu understood. Nether one of them wanted to leave Balto.

Sulski slumped down by the fire. He covered his eyes.

He's given up, thought Aleu, He's given up on everything

Looking about down at her father, she sat wondering. I brought this to you. I brought the danger. Why did the spirits want me here. I could of spared my family all of this!

She sighed and bent her head

Complete the journey.

She sighed. Maru and Hanler could not of forsaw this. Yet

She gazed sorrowfully at her father. She loved him dearly. He had been overprotective in the past. But now, that tenderness he had give them. His love for his pups imense. Aleu wanted to repay that love.

Locating the place of the the wound, Aleu closed her eyes, lifting her paws she placed them on her father's neck.

Almost instantly, the weather changed.The cold snow, that had been floating softly down had suddenly grown swifter. More and more hit the ground.

But Balto made no movement. He couldn not even feel anything. His whole body was turning numb.

For a long time both he and Aleu remained still. The others watched, silently unable to understand what was happening.

'What's she doing?' whispered Chilla. Nobody replied. They watched and waited, without much hope.

Suddenly a gust of wind came out of nowhere and settled around Aleu and Balto. It shook the blanket of snow they were situated on and carried around and around. It floated like a circle above their heads.

Tthe others gasped at this spectical. But Aleu's eyes remained tight shut.

Then Balto's musceles moved!

His eyes flickered open as he slowly stood upright, eyes burning.

'BALTO!' Jenna spoke hoarsely. She ran up to him, just as Aleu backed away, warily.

Balto awoke from dreaming and gazed up at her.

'Jenna!' he cried.

With a loud sob, Jenna sunk down onto his neck and cried. The others stared, speechlessly. They couldn't believe what they had witnessed.

' Aleu,' he said, drawing away from Jenna's neck.' Where..?'

' I'm here, Papa. You're going to be okay.'

Sulski's eyes grew wide, as Balto limped He felt around Balto's head. The wound had gone. Trace of it was nowhere to be found. Carefully, he scratched the area it had been. He's eyes grew wide.

'... But how?' he said aloud.

It did not matter. Though Aleu knew it would puzzle poor Sulski for the rest of his life. As for their injuries, all cuts, were washed and cleaned. Sulski had seen to that.

Incase Thaze might still be around, the musher dicided to leave the forest to avoid other confortation.

As they got ready, he stooped to carry Balto. Balto's limp was not serious, but Sulski decided to let him rest on the sled for a bit.

When everyone was ready, he lent forwards on the sled.

'Now...HIKE!'

Leaving the trees, they raced out the darkness into the moonlit night.

On a old leaning tree, overlooking the whole landscape, Thaze stood listening to the sharp sounds of the sled-dog team, as it departed the forest.
He squinted, shivering uncontrolably. He was too tired to follow, too weak, too hungry, too bleak to care anymore.

He had lost. He knew it. The wolf knew he could not go after them. But the worse was, he could not go back.

Thaze had been the cause of Hanler's death

Thaze had threatend Aleu's life

Thaze nearly killed the wolf-dog who was her Father.

He was an outcast...

Alone and unwanted...

He was a rouge with no where to go.

XXVII

'This load heavier then EVER!' panted Dingo,' How does Lurth and his team do it?'

'Take a look at the load on the sled, that will answer your question.' muttered Tam.

Balto glanced at the sled concerned. Under the sheet, the baggage looked fuller since they set off.' Sulski collected it from that fallen tree.' Tamille explained. ' He thought it was too good to throw away.'

Tamille was right. Sulski had indeed picked up some wood. NO! A dozen by the looks of it. Sulski must of given up too. No way could they catch up with Ted Maximous's team.

Dingo groaned,

' OH, that does explains things.'

Chilla taunted them

' You should try a bit more.' she said,

'Leave them alone.' Saba said, ' They're pulling as hard as they can.'

'You should know, I suppose,' Chilla sighed. She had been feeling very cranky, recently. ' Maybe someone should relieve them.'

Lurth's head turned suddenly. He gleared at her, sternly.

' Maybe you should take the weight of the sled for once!' he said. Chilla scowled, but said nothing more.

Balto grinned at Lurth,

'You sure have a way with pups.'

Lurth gave him a odd look,

'Some of them.' he said, glancing back at Vallcon.'Not all of them.'

Balto gave him a long stare then turned away. Beside him, Jenna sighed, then asked brightly,

' Well, I never thought I'd say this to a lead-dog. But...are we there yet?'

'Sooner then you think, ma'am.'Lurth replied. They were at the foot of a small hill and were running up it. Balto caught his breath by the time they reached the top. There he saw a clear late noon sky, coloured pink and gold. Below it lay a vast land covered with snow. In the centre of all this, a dark piked dot specked the pretty sceney.

Lurth glanced back at the team.

' Welcome to Anochorage.'

It was the biggest town they had ever seen. Twice as big as Nome. The cabins, barns, factories, shops, worshops and church were visable withen their view.

Balto could not believe they had made it. Finally, they had reached their last lap.

'Dad,'said Kodi,' Look at the size of that crowd!'

Sure enough, as they drew nearer, Balto could see a long line of people, waving wildly. Blocking every ways into the town. Only one gap they could get through.

Would Rig be there? thought Balto. He's in such bad condition. Ragnal, no doubt would be there. And so would Missy. Duke too. Ted Maximous would be there. With Nero and his team-mates and...Balto stopped.

'Steele,' he mutterd

He had lost to Steele.

'Well,' he whispered to himself.' You can't win them all.'

'What's that running behind us?' asked Athera.

'It's Nero's team.' Kodi cried in astonishment, 'THEY'RE WAY BACK!'

Once again, Balto turned his head to look behind him. He blinked. His mouth hung open as he gapped at the other team, running towards them.

'But...but...how, if they were ahead of us.' Saba stammered.'How did we pass them?'

'They must've taken a wrong turning, like we did.'

'Or maybe it was one of Thaze's diversions.' Alue growled.

'We'll know later.' said Balto, turning his attention to the final lap. He glanced sharply at Lurth, who nodded.' Ready partner.'

'Ready. MUSH!'

XXVIII

All eleven dogs doubled speed. Nero's team neared them with every step. Balto ground his teeth. If we could only keep the lead, he thought. Then he remembered the wood Sulski had collected. It was still on the sled.

Suddenly there came a loud thud followed by another. For a second, Balto felt the ground sudder a bit with each hit.

'WHAT'S THAT!' cried Chilla.

Athera laughed,

'It's alright,' she said, 'My musher is just unloading the wood off the sled.'

'She's right,' Tam cried, looking back.' We're all okay to play, now.' he grinned.

Balto frowned,

'As long as it dosn't hurt anyone.' he muttered,'I don't want the people of Anchorage to get any ideas, that we slowed our oponants with lumber.'

Lurth nodded

'Good point. Make sure it dosn't get in their way.'

' They gaining fast,' shouted Saba.

' At least we're okay.' Kodi smiled,' Look, how the sled feels lighter.'

' Keep at it, pups.' Balto cheered them on.' We're nearly there.'

Suddenly he felt a cold sense come of him. It almost made his stop to pear around him. Then he felt Steele's breath mingle with his. His step matching his step. Balto glanced at him. Steele was running right beside him. His eyes focused to the gap. He shifted his eyes at him.

'Out of the way, Bozo.' he growled.'The race is mine!'

'That's when your wrong.' Balto replied,

'Ahhhh, Dad!'

'Kodiak!'

Balto turned his heard around, in time to see his son jumping aside from one of Nero's team-mates. The dog was snapping at his legs.

Kodiak cried in pain,

'We have to pull away from them!'

' That's right,' Steele smiled, gleefully.' Leave it to us.'

Balto snapped at him,

'Keep back! This is not how we do it. Keep BACK!'

'Stay out of the way, or I'll brake you!'

Balto lept aside, Lurth and Jenna followed him. The rest tugged along. Soon they were out of reach from eachother and running side by side.

They were nearing the town now. The cheering from the townsfolk was deafening. Balto needed his chance to alert the others to gain the gap.. He needed their help to reach it first.

'GO!' he roared. Hoping they could hear him.

They had.

Both teams rushed through the gap and onto the waiting gate.There, Balto caught his first glimpse of the finishing line. He could see the Mayor of Koyuk standing next to another man dressed like him. Beside them, stood Ragnel and Missy.

This is it, thought Balto, the moment of truth

He urdged his team closer.

'Oh no you don't.' snarled Steele, gaining on him. 'I know your way!'

The two teams ran side by side.

Balto knew if he didn't overtake them sooner, they would lose the race. With the strengh of a bear, cunning of a fox, fear of a caribou, boldness of a wolverine, swiftness of a flying raven and howling like wolf, Balto did a great leap forwards...

He felt his nose brush the satin ribbon...

Swissssssssssssh!

'NOME IS THE WINNER!'

The speaker's voice rung loud and clear. The crowd went wild. Children from all around lept up in air, cheering. Everyone rushed after the victorious team.

Clean through the finishing line, Sulski halted his sled, jumped off and started hugging his dogs. First Athera, then Vallcon, then finally Lurth. Then he bent downand clutched on Balto, repeating in a broken voice.

'You did it, Boy. You did Rig proud. Thank you, thank you.'

Balto barely noticed. At the corner of his eye he located Steele teams, tailing behind them. Steele head was bent low, almost touching his legs.

'Balto!'

Balto's ears perked up. It was Rig Ground. Rig! Standing beside him and supporting him was Duke of The Balto Flyer. Balto blinked hard, to make sure that all this was not a dream. Rig dropped his crutch, slumped down beside his lead-dog and gave him a long embrace. Balto felt the musher tears fall onto his fur.

No, this no dream. We did it, he thought, we've won the race!

XXVX

Steele walked along the outskirts of Anchorage. It was morning after The Trail Run Race and behind him, stood the cabin where he and his team-mates were lodging. But only for another twelve hours, Steele thought bitterly. Ted Maximous had flipped out! He took his defeat very hard and wasted no time in preparing for their departure from Anchorage. The team were meant to depart tomorrow.

Steele looked out at the far horizon, blending in with the raising sun. Everywhere, from the snow to black fir trees was covered with golden ray. His eyes glinted. His mind was made up, but his heart was heavy. The husky scratched himself. Should he go away, he thought.

'Off again I hear?' a low voice behind him said. Steele knew whose it was.

Standing proudly, he nodded curtly at the horizon.
'That's right, Ted isn't keen on the idea on sticking around.'

'Really?' said Balto, in surprise.' I never took Mr Maximous as a bad loser. What about you, what do you think?'

Steele shrugged,
'I just go with it. Why do you ask?'

'Well,' Balto frowned.'we might bump into each other, again.'

'Probably. But I wouldn't count on it,' Steele sniffed, as he stretched back his tail. The tip touching his forehead.
'There! I've had it up to here with you.' he smirked. 'So long, wolf-dog.' as he turned away, the smile faded. He started towards the cabin, ignoring the pit in his stomach.

'Steele!'

The former champion race dog stopped but didn't turn around. 'Let me help you.' Balto said.

There was a long silence.

Steele tapped his claws in irritation.
'Hmph! You made an similar attempt long ago.'

Balto shrugged,
'Well. I'm offering it again.'

Steele blinked. He hated this dog. Bulleted him and almost killed him. Yet all Balto could do was forgive him. Why, after everything that happened between them. The struggles, conflicts, certain death, was Balto forgiving him!

Why?

'WHY!!!!!?' he roared.

Balto raised one eyebrow.
'Why not? I have always respected you, Steele. Despite our differences. If things were different, you and I might have been pals.'

'I cheated, okay!' Steele said, finally, ' I never raced without cheating. I dodged my way throughout my whole career.' he glanced at Balto, almost fearfully. 'Still regard me as a champion?'

'I admit, it's shocking.'

'There then!'.'

Balto shrugged again,
'It fills the gap.' said Balto

'You're daft dog, ' Steele said, shaking his head. Then he realised for the first time ever he had called Balto a ''dog''.
'I was a fraud! '

'Perhaps.' Balto said, he sat beside him,' But Steele, you are changing, whatever you say. Right now you're turning a new-leaf and that's really matters.' he paused and stood up, 'Maybe it doesn't affect you, but it relieves me. Good luck, Steele.'

Without another look, Balto left him and walked away towards the sunrise.

Both Mr Ground and Mr Sulski split their reward. Both the Meyor of Anchorage and the Meyor of Koyuk understood the situation which led their teams to form. And were content with it.

As the light grew dimer, all the dogs gathered together in a boiler room.
'It's going to be long night.' Lurth said with a sigh. He was sitting with his son, Vallcon near the great doors. Vallcon said nothing but remained silent.

Lurth Balto and Aleu joined them. Whist the others talked to one another, Aleu continued to stare at Vallcon. Amidst a conversation, she said suddenly to the young wolf-dog.

'I know how if feels to be different. I've been there and had faced similar challenges like you.' and so Aleu told Vallcon about her life andher journey to find where she belonged.
And while she spoke Lurth saw his son's ears pick up. His jaw sunk a little. His eyes were wide with wonder as Aleu told her tale. After she fad finished her story, Vallcon's eyes grew wide.

'Would I be welcome there?' he asked,

Aleu shrugged,
'You can if you want. It's yours decide.'

Vallcon turned to his father. Lurth nodded slowly.
'Your mother will understand and I believe this will be right for you, son.' he added, softly. 'I have always felt you needed something to be proud of. We love you, Vallcon. And will always love you.'

Both father and son gazed at each other for a long moment. Vallcon blinked, then turned back to Aleu. His eyes were wild.

'I'll come with you.' he said finally,' But first - I have to settle an old conflict.'

His eyes fell on Missy, who was standing by, talking to a group of huskies. Leaving Aleu and Lurth side, Vallcon walked directly to the party.

Missy saw him coming and turned away, her nose to the air. Lurth felt a rush of anger, but Vallcon spoke directly to Misissippi. His words was drowned with the mutter of the crowd.
Misissippi's mouth dropped. She turned and stared up at Vallcon then blankly around the room. Eyes wide, she edged near to Vallcon and whispered something in his ear.
Valcon shrugged away. Missy's eyes narrowed, little glints of fire flashed through her eyes.
She sprang up to her feet in the center of the room.

'Why you .... you .... ' she stuttered.

'It's over Missy. I'm a wolf now.'

'MONGRAL!'

'MISSY!' cried Ragnel in shock. Misissippi paused. She realised that everyone in the room was staring at her.

She glared up at her father.
'Did you hear what he said. Did you hear what he called me. Are you going to let him talk to me like that?'

'Quiet!' shouted her father, sternly. 'Quiet I say, and none of that bottem lip!' Misissippi gave a loud wail. Ragnel shook his head, disgustedly as he turned to the guests.

'Please forgive Missy. I've tried my utter best to be stern with her.'

'For the last time. IT'S MIS - ISS - IP - PI!!!!!!!!'

'Hold your tongue!' Ragnal barked. 'Leave the room, at once. And no back-chat!'

Heated with anger, Missy glared at her father and advanced out of the room. Ragnel shepered her out. Nodding to the party, he said, smiling, 'Carry on with the party, friends. I will see you tomorrow.'

The poodles departed.

Vallcon watched them off, silently. Lurth smile faded as his gazed at his son and his eyes watered.
'Take care of my boy, miss.' Lurth whispered to Aleu. Aleu nodded respectfully. Lurth turned to Balto and said sadly.' I believe this is right for him. But I have a sore feeling we shall never see him again. It's not easy letting your young nipper go.'

Balto nodded understandably,
'That's what I said to Aleu, when her time came. She proved wrong when she suddenly returned.'

Vallcon came striding back to them, smiling widely. Lurth couldn't remember the last time he saw his son so happy.

'Right,' Vallcon said to Aleu,' when are we off?'

*********

The next day brought, Koltav and his brother Garco, who came to say goodbye to Balto and his family.

'Sir, It's been a honor racing against you.' they said, with dignity.

The family wondered if they ever meet Koltav and Garco again. Perhaps not. But they would always remember them.

Steele's team left for Anchorage that day and everyone was there to see them off. Standing beside Rig, Balto's family watched as the sled drew past, Nero and Steele leading in front.
As he ran, Steele spotted them on the side of he road. His gaze settled on Balto. The two former rivals eyes met for a brief second, then Steele was gone. Forever.

Sulski helped Ground prepare the team. The whole towns of Anchorage were ready to see them off. Cheers rang out as the team pulled the sled through the streets, towards the railway station that would take them all to Koyuk. Than later to Nome.

(Three days later)

Home! They were finally home!

Jenna's heart fluttered excitedly. She thought this day would never come.

As she got off the tain to sit beside her mate, Jenna laughed. Balto looked at her knowingly and laughed along. Joyously, they led their team through the gates of their hometown. The people of Nome rushed to greet them. Everyone was there. Adults, children and dogs. Jenna spotted their friends. Duke, Mr Simpson, Dr Furguson, Rosie's parents, Rig's family, Old Doc, Morris, Niki, Kaltag, Star, her freinds Dixie, Slyvi, Kirby, Ralph, Dusty, Mel, Dipsy, Boris, Stella, Muk and Luk and many more.
As they halted in front of the church, two girls broke out of the crowd. One was Chilla's girl, Moria who flung her arms around Chilla's neck. The other girl was Rosie. With a heartful bark, Jenna buried her head into Rosie's arms.

At last. They were home!

Jenna turned to her mate. Her eyes met his.
'Balto.' she whispered.

Balto gazed at her. Years ago, since Rosie's recovery he and Jenna had conciderd living with her and her humans, but the time never came. He doubted Boris would mind. It was Boris's wish that Balto would settle down happily, without fear of the Humans. Besides that, he still had Mac and Luk, had Stella now. Yet still, Balto was unsure. He felt strange fitting in with Humans. And he was used to living in the boat, by the sea, free. Quite alone, perhaps, but he didn't mind. But for how long now?

XXX

'Love you, Papa.' Aleu said, warmly.
Balto nuzzled his daughter's flank, tenderly.
'I am going to really miss, my little baby.' he said to her. He glanced to Vallcon. 'you too Vallcon.''
Vallcon bowed respectedly. 'Take care of yourselves.'

They were together beside the neglected boat. Balto, Jenna, Aleu, Vallcon Boris, Muk, Luk, with Kodiak, Saba, Tamill, Dingo and even Chilla. The evening sun rays shone around them as they said their goodbyes, sorrowfully.

As Aleu licked her mother and sisters goodbye, Balto turned to Vallcon,
'You'll be fine out there, Vallcon.' he said to him. 'I just know you will.'

Vallcon looked up at him. As he did, a sense of pride filled Balto's heart. He shook his head in amazement. This young animal had gone a long way.

At last the minute arrived. Aleu, after licking Kodi, thanking Dingo, teasing Tamill and Boris and nudging Muk and Luk faced the wilderness. She was going home.
Followed by Vallcon, she led the way towards the mountains. Their pace matched, as they crossed the vast, snowy lands.

The family sat staring at the two gray figures, pacing their way towards the forest. But when they were no more then a mile away, Aleu stopped and turned her head to gaze back at them. It was too far to read her features, but Balto was sure what she was thinking of doing. Sure enough, Aleu lifted her head and howled a soulful farewell howl to them. Vallcon stood by, watching her. Without knowing what he was doing, Balto lifted his head and repeated the song. Boris, Muk and Luk stood silently as the others joined Balto. The evening sun shone dimly behind the sea in the midst of the wolf cry.
Aleu halted hers and without another look, she and Vallcon resumed their way towards the forest until they were lost in sight.
Apart from the roar of the sea, a hush silence came after. Dingo gave a sad sigh and turning away, walked back to the lights of Nome, followed by Saba, Chilla, Tamill, Muk and Luk.
Kodi remained with his parents for a few minutes. Boris too lingered, sadly. Both each to his own thoughts and memories.
Presently, they left the boat and walked together towards the shoreline, talking about the race, Aleu and the fun they had. Only Balto and Jenna remained, sitting in the sand. Balto's eyes were gray with pain and sadness.

'He's like another son to me. Jenna?'

'I know what you mean.' Jenna said, it was her turn to smile. They stood in silence, staring at the forest of trees and the mountains afar.

'Balto,' Jenna said slowly. 'Rosie's parents say it would be fine if you could come and stay with us.' Jenna went on, 'If you would be okay with that. Rosie will be really happy if you did. Me too.' Balto stared at her, in astonishment.' Would you like that, dear?'

Yes

Balto could not refuse.

Ten months later....

'Aleu, can I come in. I have a favor to ask off you.'The winter morning sun shone on the edges of the cave, Vallcon stood outside it, waiting. Blinking sleepily, Aleu raised her head to look at him.
His days, running with the Clan had been good for him. Before she had returned with him to the island, he adapted to life of freedom. The Clan had welcomed him (she expected they would) and made him feel at home. Vallcon was no longer the overlooked, moody dog Aleu remembered. He had grown attentive, wise and strong.

She nodded to him,
'Come in, Vallcon.' Vallcon walked into the cave until he was standing next to her bed. 'What is it?'

Vallcon drew himself. up
' I want to leave the island. Soon after the ice - bridge forms again.'

Aleu stared at the young wolf in surprise. She got up slowly.
'Are you sure you want this. I mean, I thought you liked your freedom?'

Vallcon smiled,
'It's not what you think.' he turned his eyes to the mouth of the cave. Aleu followed his gaze and laughed gaily. Sleath had entered the cave and had stopped beside Vallcon, her fur touching his. Vallcon turned his head and nuzzled the dark wolf. His expression was hopeful as he turned back to face his leader.'We would like to start a pack together somewhere. Two packs are too many to share caribou with.'

Aleu smiled at her two friends,
'No question you two will make a great team. I am going to really miss you, both Neverless you have my blessing and are free to go whenever you feel is right for you.' The new couple bowed low, greatfully.

' Goodbye, my friends. May the spirits guide you.'

The End

Balto, Alue, Jenna, Dipsy, Mel, Rosie, Saba, Steele and other Balto characters are (c) of Universal

The story, artwork, Chilla, Tamill, Thaze, Sleath, Hanler, Moria, Mr Sulski, Rege, Tep, Ragnel, Mississippi and other characters not of Universal Copyright, are (c) of White Frost