Firstly, please be aware it contains the following themes: the deaths of the children from diphtheria, major character death, a funeral scene, fights scenes similar to those in the original film and the affects of grief on characters. All character deaths are depicted similarly to those of Musfasa & Bambi’s mother.

This fic is not intended to offend or upset anyone and if it does I apologise. I have tried to deal with the above themes in a realistic, sensitive and respectful way.

This fic has been rated PG in accordance with British and American film classification guidelines and is unsuitable for children under 10 years old. To illustrate this point Lion King/Bambi have U ratings but Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is rated PG.

As a Balto fan I had often wondered how events would have played out if the medicine hadn’t arrived in time, which is the reason why I wrote this fic. It is a standalone piece of work that offers an alternate version of events. I hope you will respect this.

Sorry for the long howl but I believe it’s better to make my audience aware of certain themes so they can make an informed choice, especially children, and it is at them and their parents this note is predominantly aimed. I hope you all enjoy this fic.

Balto and Steel stood facing each other on the cliff top surrounded by the sled team who watched with baited breath. The outcome of the fight would decide the fate of the sled team and Balto’s position in society. Kaltag and Star the situation was made worse by the fact that their young owners lay in a hospital beds. Balto’s arrival had given the huskies hope of saving their friend’s lives.

“This is pointless, Balto wants to do is help us save the children, why does Steel want to fight him?” Star whispered to Kaltag.

“His pride and the fact Balto and Jenna are friends. Steel wants to be the hero to get Jenna and he sees Balto as a threat,” Kaltag sighted in reply.

“We don’t have time for this, the children need the medicine,” Star hissed in anger.

Looking at Balto standing in front of him, Steel felt utter rage running through his veins, how dare a filthy hybrid try to take his rightful place as hero? Springing at Balto, Steel’s teeth cut across his left shoulder causing him to call out in agony. Dodging a second attack Balto lost his footing on a patch of ice, sending him crashing to the floor, the cut in his shoulder stinging. A ripple of shock ran through the dogs as Balto had landed only a meter from the cliff edge. Panting heavily Balto staggered to his feet unaware of the danger he was in as pain scorched through the back leg that Steel had bitten. Steel sprung again, the sheer force of lung sending Balto humbling over the cliff edge.

Sliding down to the bottom Balto lay motionless, his head and left shoulder throbbing with pain, blood running down onto the snow from the head and shoulder wounds. In the snow Balto lay, barely moving and barely awake. Above him Steel called the team to order, pushing the musher Gunner Kaasen onto the sled and ordering everyone take their places. So consumed by his pride that he failed the see the resentment burning in Kaltag’s eyes, nor hear the whispering among the dogs about the route they would take. Proudly slipping on his harness Steel took a look back at the cliff edge.

“So long wolf dog you’ll never lead this team. I win outcast the glory and Jenna will be mine, you will be the fool who nearly cost the children their lives.”

Hours passed, still Balto laid in the snow, slipping in and out of consciousness utter spent of energy. Jenna and Rosie’s face’s floating in and out of his vision. The cold numbed his pain seeping into his body as the falling snow covered him. Through the night the stars watched as Balto lay there, twisting in turning as dreams haunted his mind. Dawn first rays broke through the sky banishing the snow clouds. Slowly Balto opened his eyes, almost blinded by the reflection of the sunlight on the snow, steadily Balto climbed to his paws, his vision swimming for a moment.

“I feel like I’ve been hit on the head by a train…Morning! I must have been out cold all night. The team……..I have to find them! Steel doesn’t have a clue which way to go home and he won’t follow my marks home. If I don’t find him………Focus Balto there is only a small amount of time left for the children. Rosie I have to think of Rosie.”

With renewed hope Balto set off through the forest, running slower than normal due to his shoulder injury and the sprain to his paw. As he ran memories of Rosie ran through his head and his fear for her life growing with every passing mile. After a few miles he came to the tracks of the team, he had been right, Steel had utterly ignored his marks instead he had followed a different route. Sniffing the tracks a wave of relief rushed through Balto at the fact the tracks were fairly fresh, no more than an hour old. Increasing his speed Balto winced as pain scorched through his left shoulder causing his vision to blur.

Overcome by dizziness he fell to the floor, landing with a soft thud in the snow. Lay in the snow he gasped for breath, his strength fading with each passing second. Rosie’s smiling face burst into his mind strengthening his resolve. Struggling to his paws he staggered to a small pool of water, taking long gulps in an effort to cool to heat he felt in his body. To his surprise two sets of wolf tracks were in the snow next to the pool. Not only were they tracks but they were fresh no more than a day old, tracks that looked rather familiar.

“No it couldn’t be…”Balto thought, catching the owner’s scents on the wind.

Ignoring his own pain and injuries Balto carried on through the falling snow, looking left and right in hope of finding the team. Rounding a bend Balto found he was now running next to a river, one covered in ice, ice that appeared rather thin in parts. The tress thinned, the river widened following into a lake. On the lake was the team. Skidding to a halt on the lakes edge Balto looked in horror, the ice was thin barely thick enough to support the teams weight. Already deep cracks were appearing in the ice, soon it would shatter completely.

“Stay away wolf dog I don’t need help from an outcast,” Steel snarled in reply, looking over to where Balto stood, angered that wolf dog’s arrival.

“Steel we should listen to him, I don’t like the look of the ice either,” Kaltag called looking down at the ice. “I said from the start this wasn’t right.”

“Be quiet Kaltag! I’m lead dog I say what we do. I lead this team I will lead us home,” Steel replied turning his head to face the blonde husky.

“Steel this isn’t the time for arguing,” Balto snapped, a faint note of panic in his voice. “Right now you need to run to safety.”

“I know what I’m doing! All you want is the glory for yourself. You think that being a hero will make you a dog. You think that you will win Jenna.”

“You’re a fool Steel I don’t care about that! All I want is for Rosie and the other children to get better. You have to follow me off the ice before it breaks,” Balto replied, his eyes burning with anger that the dog’s self centred attitude.

“Liar wolf dog you want all the glory which you believe will win you Jenna,” Steel snarled in reply turning away from Balto.

Suddenly a crack echoed through the air, the ice beneath the team and Balto’s paws broke without warning. Panic swept through Steel and the team but it was already too late. Steel, Star and Kaltag vanished through the ice before they could react. Time seemed to stand still. Balto leapt at the sled, grabbing the ropes attached to the crate in his teeth. For a moment he pulled the medicine from the sled. Then the ice beneath his paws shattered, sending him, the medicine and the remainder of the team into the frozen water. Water consumed him and he lost hold of the crate as he slipped into unconsciousness. On the river banks downstream two wolves and male and female stood together silently as if waiting for something or someone.

Jenna lay on Rosie’s bed watching her desperately ill mistress sleep, around her nurse Emily Morgan tended to patients. Looking down at them Nurse Morgan shook her head in sadness at their plight. As she took the temperature of a boy, the ward door was flung open to reveal a lanky teenage boy, leaning against the doorframe he gasped for breath.

“Steel, Star and Kaltag have been found on the banks of the river. They’re barely alive and soaked through with water,” Jonny stammered hurridly.

“No trace of it. Bits of broken sled were next to them………” Jonny replied walking into the room. “The mushers are saying they must have fallen through the ice going over a river.”

“Oh Jonny,” Nurse Morgan said putting her hands to her mouth and looking at the children.

“It over isn’t it?” Jonny replied, collapsing on a chair next to the bed and looking at the boy in it, his little brother. “Nat….Rosie……..they’re gonna die.”

“I….I….” Nurse Morgan stammered putting a hand on Jonny’s shoulder. “Not all hope is lost Jonny, the medicine could still be found.”

Listening to the conversation terror shot through Jenna like fire. In a flash she was off the bed and out the door running to the boiler house as fast as her paws could carry her. Arriving she was met by the sight of Steel, Star and Kaltag asleep in baskets in front of the boiler with the town dogs crowded around them. Sylvia and Mel both had tears in their eyes while several other dogs had looks of despair on their faces, all fearing for the children’s lives. Sitting down next to Sylvia and Mel, Jenna looked at the three ill dogs, wondering what had happened out on the sled trials.

The hours passed, grave looking mushers came and went, checking on the dogs every hour or so. With dawn’s first rays the trio awoke, greeting their friends and bolting down the food and water that was waiting for them. The town dogs crowded around their friends, using their bodies to keep them warm. Then wooden burst opened with the clatter of its hinges and the St Bernard called Boston walked in.

“It’s hopeless my friends, the mushers have found what remains of the medicine, pieces of the box and a couple of broken vials. We are going to lose them.”

Taking one look at him, Kaltag ran out if the room with Jenna on his heels, both running as fast as they could to the hospital. Despite his weakness Kaltag set a fast pace, his fear for his young owner overcome weakened body. Reaching the hospital the pair skidded to a halt, Kaltag jumping onto the barrels outside Dr Welch’s office.

“Kaltag I know a way we can hear what they are saying,” Jenna called leading him around to the boiler room.

Jenna led Kaltag under the floor of the hospital pausing briefly to check on their owners. Arriving under Dr Welch’s office the pair listened intently to the conversation between Dr Welch and Nurse Morgan.

“We have to face facts Emily we are going to lose them,” Dr Welch replied sadly, pacing around his office. “A few may be lucky and live but most will die within the week. That sled team was our only hope to save them all.”

“I had a feeling you would say that Curtis,” Nurse Emily Morgan replied running a hand over the desk, her eyes flicking to the shelf where the antitoxin was normally kept. “Telling their parents is going to be horrific. Poor Jonathon….........first his Grandpa dies now his little brother, not to mention finding his brother’s dog Kaltag on the riverbank.”

“The news will have already spread of finding the remains of the medicine. The parents will know what it means for their children. We put all our hope in that team and Gunner,” Curtis replied sitting down in his chair, his eyes full of utter despair.

“Gunner had years of experience and knew the terrain well, I pray he may be found alive. We tried Curtis but…. ..” Emily replied placing a hand on his shoulder.

Underneath the floor Jenna and Kaltag looked at each other in shock, tears running from their eyes as the news hit home. Turning on her heals Jenna ran out of the boiler room leaving Kaltag alone with his thoughts. A short time later on the hill above town Jenna placed a lantern down behind pieces of broken bottles.

In the midst of the light Aniu appeared, invisible to Jenna, the white wolf looked down onto Nome. Turning away she hung her head sadly all too aware of what was to come, part of her yearned to be able to intervene but she knew that was to come was fated and she was powerless to change it.

Far away in a hillside cave overlooking a river Balto slowly opened his eyes. To his utter shock lying next to him were his brother Arden and sister Eagle. Arden had a brown/ white / dark grey coat. Eagle had similar markings Balto where he had dark brown she had a lighter shade and where he had light brown she had white.

“We are in a cave above the river, we found you lying on the river’s banks a few days ago half alive,” Arden replied gently.

“You are ill my son very ill,” Aniu replied as she walked into the cave. “Lucky to be alive in fact, you need food and rest.”

“Not yet my son, leave now and you will die before you arrive. Please understand that the events are out of your paws,” Aniu replied nuzzling him. “You tried your best to help them.”

“Steel he refused to listen,” Balto muttered, overcome by exhaustion he fell into a deep sleep.

Over the next few days Balto drifted in and out of consciousness as his illness raged through his weakened body. Using her power Aniu healed her son, staying with him as much as possible. Though the wounds healed the fur that grew back over the shoulder wound was white. At night he was plagued by nightmares of the events on the ice, his screams waking his family. For Arden and Eagle watching Balto was painful, as was watching him throw up the first time he ate.

In his periods of consciousness Balto told his brother and sister of his life in Nome and what had happened to him on the day they were accidentally separated. In return they told him off their own lives, the day their other brother Suka had left to form a pack and their plans to form a pack. Suka’s actions did not surprise Balto as Suka had always been strong. What was a surprise was how much Arden had changed, gone was the class clown replaced by confident leader. Yet Arden’s ability to tell jokes remained and he often had Balto in stitches with one of his wise cracks. Despite the happiness he felt with his family Balto often thought of Rosie and Jenna. In his heart of hearts Balto knew that hope was lost for the children’s survival for he himself had seen the medicine flow down the river.

Three weeks had passed since that day on the ice, at last Balto was fully recovered. For the past ten days he had been up on his paws, hunting and regaining his strength. To his surprise his old hunting skills had returned and he hunted well, playing an active and often key role in hunts. Standing outside the cave Balto looked out across the forest as the sun rose over the mountains.

“Leaving……….you mean you want to go to Nome. Why? We are your family and the dogs bullied you,” Eagle replied as Arden joined them.

“Eagle is right Balto. Your hated there, those dogs may well think your dead this could be a fresh start for you,” Arden replied looking at his brother with confusion.

“I have to go back. I have to know what has happened to the children…..to Rosie…….as much as it might hurt.”

“Balto face facts it has been three weeks the human girl is likely to be dead,” Eagle replied softly.

“I could not live with the uncertainty of not know her fate. Rosie has a dog Jenna,” Balto replied turning away.

“You love her,” Arden finished looking at his brother. “I thought that would be the problem.”

“Yes I love Jenna. I love being with you guys, living a wolf life is great and I am really happy here. But I cannot just forget everything that has happened recently, I have to find what has happened to Rosie, even if it hurts me. I can’t forget what I tried to do or my friends, they deserve to know that I am alive. Please understand that.”

“Alright Balto if you really want to go back to Nome then we are going with you,” Eagle replied.

“We do but family comes first,” Arden replied placing a paw around on his brother’s shoulder. “We are not letting you do this alone, even if we eventually leave you in Nome with this Jenna, we will know you are happy.”

“Thanks for this. Well if we want to reach Nome we had better leave if my geography is correct it’s a four days walk.”

Together the family set off through the forest their paws leaving deep tracks in the snow as they went. As he walked Balto felt fear enter his heart, despite his brave words he feared what he would find when he arrived in Nome.

A week later Balto stood alone outside the boiler house waiting for the right moment the entre. On arriving an hour before Balto had sent Arden and Eagle to Boris to explain what had happened with strict instructions not to enter town. Inside Steel, Star and Kaltag were surrounded by dogs, one of which was Jenna. Taking a deep breath he walked into the room. Seeing him the dogs gasped in shock, all had believed him to be dead.

“Balto! I don’t believe it we thought you’d died,” Kaltag stammered walking over to him.

“I nearly did Kaltag……” Balto replied as Jenna approached. “Jenna…….I……”

“She’s dead Balto……….Rosie’s dead,” Jenna sobbed, tears running down her cheeks as she nuzzled Balto.

“Jenna I am so sorry,” Balto whispered as tears fell from his eyes, his heart shattering.

“No thanks to you half breed,” Steel snarled glaring at Balto. “You killed her trying to be the hero. They know what happened, how you lead on a short cut, how you demanded you lead the team. You good for nothing……”

“SHUT UP STEEL YOU LIAR,” Kaltag yelled to the shock of all. “That is enough of your lies! Tell them what really happened out there.

“You’re right I do and what you’ve been saying isn’t it. I’m done listening to your lies! My owner is dead because you refused to accept Balto’s help.”

“Kaltag is right Steel,” Star replied glaring at Steel. “If you’d listened to him the children would still be alive, my owner is barely alive thanks to you.”

“Alright everyone its time you heard the truth,” Kaltag said looking at the other dogs.

Together Kaltag, Star and Balto told of the true events, Balto’s offer of help, his cliff fight with Steel and the events on the ice. As the tale finished several dogs yelled names at Steel and praised Balto. Yet others saw Balto’s actions as interference and threw several names his way. Looking at Jenna, Balto saw the pain in her eyes and when she left he didn’t follow, realizing she needed time alone.

Walking out of town a while later Balto saw Arden, Eagle and Boris waiting for him on his boat.

“Good you have you home Kiddo,” Boris said hugging home. “How are you holding up?”

“She’s dead Boris…….she dead……….I failed her,” Balto replied collapsing into tears.

“No Kiddo she just died from her illness,” Boris replied as Arden and Eagle nuzzled their brother. “Her funeral is tomorrow, go and say goodbye.”

Collapsing into his blanket Balto cried bitter tears at the loss of his friend his heart breaking and all his dreams dying. Boris, Arden, Eagle, Muk and Luk gathered around him, their hearts aching to help him yet realizing nothing they said could take away the pain he was feeling. Under the night say Aniu walked into the cabin and laid her head over her son’s neck, her heart full of pain as she watched him grieve. Both of Balto’s worlds united in the cabin as they comforted him, Aniu and Boris sharing a look of mutual respect and understanding. In the darkness Balto’s mother and his adopted father shared their stories, both knowing he would need them both in the coming days and weeks.

The following day arrived with the promise of snow. At the town cemetery Rosie’s family gathered for her funeral. People spoke of how happy Rosie had been, her kindness, her artwork and how much they would miss her. Tears filled everyone’s eyes with Rosie’s mother Violet shaking with grief, unable to cope with her daughter’s death. As the pastor spoke Jenna threw in a flower into Rosie’s grave, her heart breaking into a million pieces. Silence descended on the mourners, turning around Jenna watched as Balto walked through the crowd, their eyes fixed on him. Calmly Balto took a flower from the basket held by Rosie’s Grandma Hilda and threw it into the grave. Then turning to Jenna he nuzzled her cheek before they rejoined the mourners together, to his surprise Balto felt the hand of Rosie’s father Arthur stroke his head. For a while the mourners stood in silence each wrapped in their own memories of Rosie. Walking over to the grave Balto threw his head back and howled a beautifully heartbreaking song full of sadness and grief. Tears flowed down the human’s faces, at last understanding how much Rosie had meant to the town outcast. Higher and higher the song rose expressing the grief of all that stood by the grave. As the snow began to fall people watched as an outcast sang a lament for a lost princess.

That night Balto sat alone under boats in dry dock. Half heatedly he nibbled at the hare in front of him. Then Jenna appeared, her cheeks stained with dry tears, a look of utter despair on her face.

“Balto please I don’t want your pity,” Jenna replied sitting down beside him. “I need to know what happened after you fell into the ice

“I dreamed so many terrible scenarios in my mind when the sled was discovered. Tell me and I will tell you what happened in the end……when Rosie.”

“I want to tell you………….I was there Balto I was with her. She told me to tell you something a couple of hours before she died. She told me to tell you that she loved you and that she was proud to have been your friend.”

“She truly was a kind girl,” Balto sobbed. “Alright if you wish I will tell you.”

Slowly Balto recounted the events after he had been found by Arden and Eagle, his illness that had nearly taken his life and how his mother had saved him. Balto’s voice choked when he described his illness while his eyes lit up when he told Jenna of his hunts with Arden and Eagle.

“That was why I did not come back sooner I was so ill. I’m sorry Jenna, sorry that I lived when Rosie died. It should have been me Jenna……….I should have died that day on the lake so that Rosie could have lived.”

“Not Balto not you it was Steel. Steel should have been the one to die, had he listened to you the medicine would have reached her in time. You tried to save her out of love for her. You were not trying to be a hero you just wanted to help. Despite the entire town and the sled dogs hating you still tried to help them.”

“I failed! Rosie died because I failed, I killed her for that I will never forgive myself,” Balto replied getting up and running away.

“There is nothing to forgive Balto,” Jenna whispered watching him leave. “It was never your fault.”

As the weeks past the residents of the town grieved for their losses, Jenna fell into depression, while at the same time having to cope with Steels attempts to woo her. Grieving for the loss of his young master and the death of his friend Nikki, Kaltag grew to despise Steel. Wanting little to do with the town dogs other than Star or Jenna, Kaltag spent much of time with his owners elder brother Jonathon, both finding solace in each other company. Jonny was hit hard by the loss of his brother, his once lively personality vanishing as he started to go by his full name of Jonathon. Jonathon became a serious teenager spending most of his time studying then playing baseball or football with his friends. He was not the only one to change as many adults tried to rebuild their shattered lives. Steel’s life was not all plain sailing as many dogs blamed him for the children’s deaths, seeing for the first time the vain, arrogant and self serving dog that he was.

For Balto the situation in town was terrible as other dogs blamed him for the children’s deaths, resulting in insults being thrown his way, insults worse than before. Grief rocked his body as he blamed himself for the deaths of the children, the guilt he felt almost unbearable. Yet at the same time there was light, out on the tundra or in the forest Balto hunted with Arden and Eagle, utterly revelling in the freedom it brought.

Six weeks after Rosie’s funeral Balto stood outside her former home, through the lounge window he watched Violet, Arthur and Jenna. Looking up Jenna was shocked to see him, getting up she slipped out through the kitchen door.

“I never thought you would come here again, never thought I’d see you slink in through the hole in the fence.”

“I’ve done it a lot, sometimes I’ve watched and you haven’t even noticed, the other day I watched Violet play with you.”

“I watched from the roof,” Balto replied grinning. “How are you coping?”

“Terribly everything is terrible……” Jenna chocked. “I miss her so much………everyday.”

“I miss her to Jenna,” Balto replied nuzzling her. “Nothing is the same anymore.”

“Some things are, my love for you is the same,” Jenna replied smiling for the first time. “I’ve loved you for a long time Balto, now I’ve had the courage to tell you.”

“You are the only one who I want, you see me as a person not a prize,” Jenna replied looking at him strait in the eyes. “I don’t care what the others think I’ve spent to long caring what others think of me. I nearly lost you once Balto I’m not willing to lose you again.”

“You’re right Jenna damn the lot of them, we don’t need them, not now we have each other,” Balto replied kissing her again. “Come on let’s leave this town for a while, we need to run free for one night.”

Taking to his paws Balto led Jenna through the deserted streets and out of town. Running side by side, they past the hospital, leave town as fast as they could. Across to tundra and into the woods they ran, their speed perfectly matched, happiness and utter joy coursing through them. Reaching the forest Balto led Jenna to a frozen waterfall, Jenna utterly amazed at its beauty, the ice glistening in the moonlight. Looking at the place Jenna saw Balto standing in a patch of moonlight, walking up to his she kissed him, placing her paw over his. Feelings they had been hiding coursed through them, in an instant they cast off all restraint, throwing the dogs opinions into the wind. Under the star filled sky two lost souls claimed each, their hearts and souls uniting at last. Out of loss, a spark of hope for the future burst into life, a spark born both not only of loss but of love.

The following morning Jenna awoke alone in the cave under the waterfall. Stretching she walked out to find Balto outside, on the ground in front of him were two fat hares.

“Morning Balto,” Jenna replied looking at the hares. “I got worried when I found you gone.”

“Sorry about that I was out catching breakfast, hare caught by yours truly.”

“Well breakfast delivered that is a surprise,” Jenna replied as they took bites. “I never knew you could hunt.”

“Arden and Eagle put me through a refresher course, turns out I can hunt extremely well, I am part wolf after all.”

“Well the hare is lovely. I’ve never had my breakfast caught fresh for me before.”

“Perhaps you will,” Jenna replied running her tail under his chin. “We had better head back to Nome, Arthur and Violet will be worried about me.”

“I suppose so and I promised Eagle I would give her a tour of town,” Balto replied kissing Jenna.

Leaving the forest the pair headed back to Nome arriving as the town was starting to get busy and just as the mail team arrived. Seeing the pair the town dogs looked at them in shock, some horrified while others were happy. Seeing them raged boiled through Steels blood.

“Jenna what were you thinking? He is a filthy half breed and you are a pure breed husky. Do you have any idea?” You and I should be a couple, king and queen of town.”

“You do not own me Steel nor do you have any claim to me. Balto is twice the dog you will ever be. Balto sees me for who I am unlike you who see me only as a trophy. I can what I like with whoever I like and there is nothing you can do to stop me,” Jenna snarled, glaring at Steel with hate in her eyes.

That afternoon Balto and Eagle walked through the streets of Nome, Eagle looking around her with curiosity as she had never set foot in a town before. Passing the town bank Eagle watched people withdrawn or deposit money. At the general store Eagle nosed pots and pans, putting her paw on a typewriter she typed a few letters.

“This place is very different to the forest,” Eagle said as they passed the barbers shop.

“It’s not that bad………..oh great,” Balto replied, spotting Steel and the mail dogs lounging on barrels outside Jo’s Restaurant.

See the pair Steel and the dogs exchanged evil grins, calling out hurtful names at the pair, all delighting in throwing names at Eagle. Jumping off the barrels the dogs walked up to the pair and continued Steel saying very cruel comments to both Steel and Balto. Then in a flashy Eagle sprung, pinning Steel to the floor before the dogs or Balto had time to react.

“Never say that again dog unless you want trouble,” Eagle snarled putting a paw to his throat.

“You cannot hurt me wolf dog you wouldn’t dare,” Steel replied arrogantly.

“That’s the way town is you are a filthy wolf dog and are at the bottom of the social ladder, I am a racing great and at the top. For a filthy mixed breed you are very outspoken,” Steel replied looking at Eagle with a mixture of hate and a touch of fear.

“Well unfortunately for you I do not care of town social ladder, so unless want several injuries I would watch your tongue. I am not filth. I may have dog blood but I am a she wolf. Your opinions are meaningless to me. Stay away from my brother and I or else I will make you suffer. You will not win a fight against me dog,” Eagle snarled slapping Steels across the face.

Stepping off Steel, Eagle allowed him to climb to his feat, smiling as she saw the looks of shock on the faces of the town dogs. Turning on her heel Eagle walked away with her head held high Balto looking at her in awe and with pride.

“No you have humiliated one of the most popular dogs in town and in doing so made my life even harder,” Balto replied hanging his head. “Those dogs are going bully me even more in revenge for what you have just done.”

“So leave town if your life here is so intolerable, it is not as if you need to stay here. You already carry a mark of what that dog did to you,” Eagle replied looking at the long white strip of fur on Balto’s shoulder. “You can hunt almost as well as Arden and I, leave town with us when we go. You would free from all this accepted for who you are.”

“I never thought about that,” Balto replied in surprise as the words sank in “I’ve lived here so long, cut off from a wolf’s life, living wild never occurred to me.”

“Well perhaps you need to seriously consider it. You need to remember who you once were as cub, you may have dog blood in your veins but we both know you look more like a wolf. I cannot believe you allowed that arrogant bully to speak to you in such a way, not after what his actions caused.”

“It’s always been that way Eagle, I’ve accepted it and become used to it,” Balto replied sadly.

“You shouldn’t have to accept it Balto you are better than that. Jenna may see you for who you are but is she worth suffer all that abuse for?”

“Hold it Eagle I love Jenna. If you had known Rosie you would have understood,” Balto replied as the climbed onto the butcher’s roof.

“I don’t know Eagle everything that has happened since she died………it’s confusing. I’m grieving for her yet Jenna and I are together. I am just……..”

That night Balto sat alone out on the sea ice, above him to full moon glowed brightly, the stars twinkling in the night sky. His eyes downcast Balto looked at his reflection staring back at him from the ice.

“What am I doing here? All I ever wanted was to be accepted but that dream died when Rosie did. I am just an outcast who is despised by those I tried to help. Eagle’s words today were painful to hear yet she’s right, I don’t have to stay here, I do have another choice. When I’m running or hunting with her and Arden I feel as if I belong somewhere. Both Arden and Eagle have invited me to join them. Could I do it? Leave town leave Jenna and never come back? I love Jenna somehow she managed to forgive me for what happened. Could I throw her love away after she had suffered so much already? What would Boris say? He was there for me when I need him the most. Muk and Luk their mother was killed, how would they feel if I left? Yet part of me wants to leave with Eagle and Arden a wolf part that sees the wisdom in the choice. If only I knew what to do.”

“You are confused my son,” Aniu said stepping out of the icy fog that differed across the landscape. “You are torn between the dog’s life you have and the wolf’s life that Eagle and Arden offer you.”

“You always appear when I need you Mother,” Balto said as Aniu sat down next to him.

“I thought I knew where I belonged but now I’m not so sure. I tried so hard to help the town. All I wanted was for Rosie and the other children to get better. I didn’t want to be a hero. It’s my fault she died……It should have been me who died if I had Rosie could have lived. Why is it that Rosie died and I lived? You are a spirit why did Rosie die. Did I do something wrong?”

“Fate my son, it was fate, nothing you could have done could have changed that. I am so sorry but we spirits could not intervene in that case. It was not your fault it was never your fault. You tried to help out of the goodness of your heart.”

“Everything I ever dreamed of died with Rosie. I have Jenna…..but I always pictured pulling a sled with Jenna and Rosie driving it. My life is a wreck. Mother please, show me the way,” Balto pleaded looking at his mother with tears in his eyes.

“I am truly sorry for this, had there been anything I could have done I would have, however my paws were tied. You are strong my son you can rebuild your life. Neither dog nor wolf you are the best of both,” Aniu replied nuzzling her son and placing a paw over his. “Accept all of what you are and you will discover who you really are. You are worth more than what think you are. I will always love you regardless of what path you choose, I will always be here for you.”

Getting up Aniu licked his cheek before walking away into the night leaving Balto alone with his thoughts. His eyes flickered to his mothers paw prints noticing how similar they looked to his own. Looking around Balto saw that he was utterly alone turning back to the prints he eyed them with uncertainly. Lifting his left paw he hesitated. Closing his eyes he placed his paw in Aniu’s print. Opening his eyes Balto saw his paw fitted perfectly in his mothers paw. In a daze he put all four paws in his mother prints. Each paw fitted perfectly. Throwing his head pack Balto howled, his voice full of power. Out of the fog Aniu appeared once more, standing next to her son she added her voice to his. Two other voices joined their song, Eagle and Arden running up to the pair. Standing in a circle the four howled together their voices mingling as their song carried across the sea.

Two months had passed since Rosie’s death. April had arrived bringing with it the spring and the end of winter. In total thirty children had lost their lives to diphtheria with several more still weak from the disease.

Standing in front of Rosie’s grave Balto placed a piece of quartz crystal on it. Walking up to her son Aniu called on her powers, changing the shape of the crystal into that of a rose. Around the grave red roses appeared to the amazement of Balto.

“Red roses will forever grow here as a memorial to Rosie, your crystal will forever be here.”

“She is happy. Her heart was pure, she is happy of that I am certain. She is not with you physically but she will be with you in spirit.”

Smiling Aniu vanished leaving Balto alone. Lifting his head Balto howled Rosie’s name to the sky. His voice rang out across town causing many to stop in their tracks and listen.

“I have to go Rosie. I’m sorry for what happened to you, I would have gladly given my life so that you could have lived. I will always remember the time we spend together, playing with you made me very happy. Please forgive for what I am about to do Rosie, I wish there was another way or that it would not cause so much pain. I have to cause pain now to prevent further pain in years to come. Goodbye,” Balto whispered leaving the cemetery.

Walking through town Balto looked at the familiar sights, yet it was clear town was different, no childish voices drifted through the streets. Standing outside of the men’s suit shop were Jenna, Kaltag, Star and Sylvia, spotting them Balto headed over. Outside Jo’s Restaurant sat Steel and his friends, seeing Balto heading towards Jenna, Steel jumped in front of him, the other dogs quickly surrounded the pair.

“Well well wolf dog you keep showing your face. Stupid half breed doesn’t know when he is beaten. You stole Jenna from me now you will pay for that insult. Jenna should be mine and she will be. Don’t you understand outcast? No one wants you here,” Steel snarled a murderous look in his eyes.

Seeing the look in Steel’s eyes Balto readied himself for the attack that he knew was coming. Holding his head high Balto looked at the huskies before him, well aware that he was outnumbered.

“Yeh you filthy mutt get out of here, to think you could date a pure breed husky,” said one dog. “Time we put him in his place once and for all.”

“I couldn’t agree more, now you will pay wolf dog,” Steel replied springing on Balto.

The circle of dogs widened, three joining Steel in his attack. Jenna, Kaltag, Sylvia and Star ran to his aid but were stopped by three dogs that jumped in front of them, baring their way. All Star, Kaltag, Sylvia and Jenna could do was watch as Balto fought for his life. In the circle of dogs Balto fell to floor after an attack from Steel. Above him Steel stood proudly, his paws level with Balto’s eyes. Lying there Balto looked up at him, memories of the cliff top fight flooded through him. His eyes flickered to his left shoulder, thought his injury had long healed, a long white patch of fur had grown over the area. Balto’s mind cleared, ice cold anger, strength, confidence and pride running through his veins. In a flash Balto leaped to his feet, pinning Steel to the floor and letting out a long howl.

“I am not filth Steel. No longer will I be bullied by a prejudice, arrogant, egotistic dog like you. Now you will learn what fear feels like,” Balto snarled. .

“I don’t think so half breed,” Steel gasped as the circling dogs advanced.

One dog sprang at Balto only to have his attack repelled as two shapes leaped into the circle. Eagle and Arden snarled at the dogs, their teeth bared and their hackles raised in fury with their eyes glowing brightly. Looking behind him Balto shared a brief smile with his brother and sister before turning his attention back to Steel.

“So that was your plan Steel to use numbers to defeat me. Well it failed. You should have listened to my sister’s threat, hurt me and you will pay, thought I don’t think Eagle intended to carry it out quite like this.”

“No I had planned to hurt him myself but you have more right than I brother,” Eagle replied, her amber eyes flashing dangerously.

“I do have a right. Steel you have made my life a living hell ever since I came here with your taunts. You underestimated me. Hate me all you want I personally couldn’t care less,” Balto said looking down at the shocked sled dog, never in his life had Steel imagined at Balto would become so confident. “I have a family who love me. Why bother staying in a town where I’m not wanted when I can live in the wild with my family? I don’t need this town, I don’t need humans to feed me and I sure as heck don’t need the hassle from you. I am so much better than you will ever be.”

In a flash Steel forced Balto off him in a burst of strength. For a brief moment the pair fought. Then Balto fell to the floor, his eyes closed as he hit the ground. Proudly Steel advanced certain of his victory. The second Steel stood over him Balto eyes opened, seconds later Steel lay in the ground, his strength utterly spent. The town dogs looked at Balto in horror, turning to Eagle and Arden, Balto saw pride shining in their eyes.

“Smooth move Balto very smooth, stupid mutt didn’t have a clue,” Arden said walking over.

“All down to you Arden after all you taught me that trick,” Balto replied proudly gazing down at Steel.

“Ah that was lovely to watch, that mutt will never fight a wolf again,” Eagle said, smirking at the fear in Steel’s eyes.

“Come on guy’s time we were leaving, the humans will not be impressed,” Balto replied as human’s shouting drifted through the air.

Side by side Arden, Eagle and Balto walked out of the circle of dogs all of whom were cowering with fear. Holding his head high Balto walked proudly through Nome, no longer fearful for he was the one who the dogs feared.

The news of the fight spread through the town life wildfire, the dogs shocked and amazed at what had happened. That evening Jenna sat outside her house, out of the darkness Balto appeared.

“Balto I was so worried about you after what happened today,” she said nuzzling him.

“Jenna I’m here to say goodbye,” Balto replied steeping back away from her.

“You cannot mean that. I understand what you’ve been through but none of that matters to me. Balto please I love you.”

“I love you to Jenna but I cannot stay in Nome. I’m hated here and you are harassed because you are with me and what I did today will only make it worse for you. You are the town princess, I am an outcast.”

“I don’t care what dogs say about me. After all we’ve been through you cannot throw that away,” Jenna pleaded in desperation.

“It will die down in time. If you are leaving due to the fight……you don’t have to fear repercussions Steel and the others fear you now.”

“Today’s fight does not play a part in this, it was revenge for everything Steel and his cronies have done. My choice was my own,” Balto replied walking away.

“I’ll come with you, if you have to leave we both leave. We can be happy together away from Nome,” Jenna replied happily.

“No Jenna that is not right Nome is where you belong. No matter how much I love you I cannot ask you to leave everything for me,” Balto replied shaking his head sadly. “I love you Jenna which is why I have to let you go.”

The pair had reached the edge of town. Standing on the hill overlooking the town, bathed in the light of the setting sun, were Arden and Eagle. Both looked at their brother below them, their hearts aching with the pain they knew he was feeling. Seeing them Balto smiled sadly before turning back to Jenna.

“I know this is hard for you to understand, please believe me when I say this will make both of us happy in the long run,” Balto replied softly licking her cheek.

“How can we be happy if we are apart? I love you so much, please Balto stay here. We can be happy together,” Jenna pleaded, tears running from her eyes as her heart broke.

“Forget I ever existed. If you love truly me Jenna you have to let me go. I am a wolf not a dog. You will find a pure breed husky and he will give you the love you deserve,” Balto replied looking at her. “Goodbye Jenna, goodbye forever.”

Turning away from her Balto ran up the hill to his family. Reaching them he was smothered in licks. Looking at each other the family smiled, tails wagging with delight. With a short howl Arden set off running across the tundra, with their own howls, Balto and Eagle ran after him. Pain mingled with happiness as Balto left Nome, behind him Jenna’s heart shattered. Together the three wolves ran into the sunset, the last rays of the sun turning their fur to gold.

It had been a few months since Balto had left Nome, lying in a basket in Violet and Arthur’s lounge, Jenna looked week old pups that lay next to her. Two males two females, three looked like their mother, though they did have large wolf paws. But the fourth, a female, was the perfect mix of her parents. She had inherited her father’s wolf looks and markings. Where Balto had light brown she also had light brown but where as Balto had dark brown she had red. A fortnight after Balto had left Jenna had discovered she was pregnant. Thought shocked at first Jenna had quickly come to love the fact and was glad something special had come from her relationship with Balto. The pregnancy had not been easy as she had to deal with grief and hurtful comments from other dogs once they found out. Star, Kaltag, Sylvia, Dixie and Boris had rallied around her, fighting any dogs who dared throw comments her away. Arthur had Violet had been wonderful and fully accepting of the situation.

“Well now they have grown in a week,” Boris said walking into the room, ticking one of the male pups.

“How could I not? Look at her Boris she looks more like a wolf than Balto did.”

“You know the names I was called while pregnant. Some dogs still hate Balto, even more so for what he did to Steel. My poor little wolf………..” Jenna replied looking down at the pup.

“We can only home time will heal, Steel is not as popular as he once was, and many say he deserved what Balto did to him. Have you decided what you will call her?”

“Rosa. Rosie loved Balto and I so it is fitting I name this pup after her. I love this little pup no matter what happens or what anyone says to me. Despite everything that has happened I still love him, not a day goes by when I don’t think about him.”

“If only he had stayed, if I’d known at the time, he would have stayed. I should have tried harder to make him stay.”

“Nothing you could have done would have made him stay. If you known perhaps he would have remained that we will never know. Balto believed he did not belong here, he thought he was acting in the best interests of you both. Perhaps it is for the best he is not here,” Boris sighted.

“HOW CAN YOU SAY THAT?” Jenna replied leaping to her feet. “Rosa looks more like a wolf than her father did. She will be rejected and persecuted for what she is. If Balto had stayed he could have helped her.”

“She is your daughter also. The dogs will see you within her and your other pups.”

“I hope so Boris. If only Rosie was here none of this would have happened, we would have been so happy,” Jenna whispered looking at her pups.

Leaving the room Boris looked sadly at Jenna his heart going out to her. Arriving back at the old boat Boris looked across the sea.

“Oh Kiddo you really left your mark in this town and not just on Steel, that dog took a month to recover after the beating you gave him. Four pups Kiddo that’s what you left. I warned you not to date Jenna until you’d had time to grieve and think things through, I knew something would happen. You laughed it told off saying it would all be fine. Well Kiddo I was right something has happened and I will have to pick up the pieces. You thought you were doing the right thing, well you didn’t know about the pups so I cannot judge you. Where are you Kiddo? Oh Kiddo I hope this works out well.”

As the days passed the pups grew opening their eyes and learning to walk, soon running around the house causing all sorts of mischief and laugher. Chewed socks, bites taken out of hats, table legs chewed, holes dug in the garden were just a few the pups antics. No one would forget the day Saba and Kodi knocked over the hat stand would always remain in Violet and Arthurs memories. Not only were they pair covered in hats and coats but the hat stand fallen through the window in the hallway. The window had broken with a crash that had resulted in half the hat stand hanging out of the window. Violet would always remember the time Rosa and Dingo became covered from head to paws in flour, jam, eggs, icing and milk. This was a result of running into the kitchen table while Violet was making a cake, resulting in the ingredients falling off the table. Despite the happiness the pups brought they also brought pain as Jenna and Boris saw Balto in them.

The pups were six weeks old. On the beach they raced through the sand dunes and through the boats. Sitting on an old boat Jenna, Sylvia and Kaltag watched them, while Star and Dixie chased the pups through the sand.

“They seem to be growing well,” Sylvia said watching as Saba splashed Dixie.

“They have inherited their father’s speed to,” Kaltag chuckled. “Young Kodi will be a sled dog in a year or so.”

“Maybe,” Jenna replied looking at her son. “If he is allowed………..”

“He will be. There is gossip around them, three of them are accepted by all dogs, Steel calls them lucky,” Sylvia replied slowly.

“I’m not sure, she has blue eyes and your colouring and she is female. That confuses him, had she been male it would have been easy for Steel to hate a wolf looking pup,” Kaltag replied as Rosa climbed up on her father’s old home.

Climbing onto the roof of the cabin Rosa lifted her head and howled a wolf howl, lifting her front paw up. Rosa’s eye glittered as she howled joy coursing through her body as her heritage called her. Looking at the hill above town Rosa saw a white wolf watching her, seeing her Rosa wagged her tail, excited at seeing a wolf for the first time. For a moment blue eyes looked into to golden before the wolf walked away. Jumping down from the roof Rosa raced down the gang blank into the water.

“So she can howl,” Jenna whispered. “I prayed she would not find out how to do that.”

“You cannot prevent it. How are you coping with them?” Sylvia asked watching the pups.

“It’s hard for me every time I see them I see Balto looking back at me. I don’t know what I would have done without both you,” Jenna replied looking between Kaltag and Sylvia. “Both you, Star and Dixie have been amazing.”

“That’s what friends are for Jenna we help out when we are needed. Being with them helps me to remember all the joy in the world,” Kaltag replied watching as the pups raced with Star through the water. “Balto risked his life back then, the least I can do repay him is to take care of his pups. I don’t want to see them persecuted for their wolf blood nor have to suffer as he did.”

“I agree with Kaltag. They deserve to be judged on their own merit not by what happened in the past,” Sylvia replied giggling at the sight of Rosa and Dingo jumping on Dixie.

As Jenna feared Rosa’s wolf looks did affect how people saw her, though Dingo, Saba and Kodi were adopted Rosa was not. Humans could only see the wolf in her, their memories and fears of Balto surfacing. For the first time in her life Rosa experienced what her father had faced on a daily basis. Sitting with Jenna that night Rosa wondered why humans saw her as different. The pain in Rosa’s eyes broke Jenna’s heart as she told her daughter about her mixed heritage. Rosa listened with confusion and sadness at the cruelty of the town dogs.

“Of course we do, Balto was Rosie’s friend and she is named after Rosie,” Violet replied taking her husband’s hand.

“The last thing we want for her is to be out on the streets,” Arthur replied looking down at the pup sitting by the fire.

Hearing the comments Rosa left her place by the fire. Walking up to the first floor she climbed onto the window seat in what had once been Rosie’s bedroom. Putting her paws on the window she looked out at the stars, wondering if her father was looking up that them.

Out in the wilderness deep within the forest Balto stood on a hill looking up at the stars.

“Jenna I wish you could see how beautiful the stars are out here…NO STOP IT BALTO! She’s in the past, forget about her.”

A howl ripped through the air, turning around Balto saw Arden, Eagle, a she wolf black and light blue with blue eyes called Nada and a dark grey male called Pukiq (meaning smart) sat howling around the days kill. In the months that had passed since Balto had left Nome a lot had change, Nada and Pukiq joining them at different times. Nada was from a pack on the coast that was lead by a wolf called Nava. Nada had originally left the pack to find the mother who abandoned her and her twin brother Neju when they were cubs, but she had met Arden and plans had changed, deciding to join the pack instead. Pukiq had joined them a month later after Balto had alerted him to a hunter. Grateful for Balto’s help Pukiq had joined them, at first for a few days, seeing how easily he had been accepted he had decided to stay.

“Were you thinking about Jenna again?” Arden asked as Balto rejoined the pack.

“You could go back, if she means that much to you go back,” Arden replied, seeing pain flicker across his brother’s face.

“I can’t go back Arden. I have to forget her and all that happened back there. It’s just hard………..part of me dreams about how it could have been. Stupid fool that I am,” Balto replied shaking his head.

Over the next few days the wolves continued on their search for a territory of their own, avoiding any packs as best they could to avoid conflict. None of them had any clear idea on where they were going but something seemed to be pulling them west. Hunting and running together their bonds increased, becoming clear that something was beginning between Nada and Arden. Arden was the alpha of the pack with Balto the male beta, though the dog blood of Arden, Balto and Eagle meant either of three often took charge. Though at first Nada and Pukiq had been surprised they did not see the fact as important.

After a while the pack reached the outskirts of Fairbanks, the wolves nervous and on edge, Balto confused at the sight of the town. Standing on the edge of the town they heard a clang followed by a howl. Looking at each other they ran to where the sound had come from. In a clearing with his paw caught in a trap was a rather scruffy light brown and cream male wolf. Seeing them the wolf breathed a visible sight of relief despite the pain glittering in his eyes.

“Help me please,” the wolf gasped. “Please help me humans have captured a friend of mine.”

“Relax we’ll help you before the humans come,” Pukiq replied studying the trap. “This will spring back if we bite through it.”

“Please listen to me,” the wolf coughed. “My friend is trapped in a cage please help her.”

“I’ll go,” Balto replied. “You guys can take care of this………tell me where she is.”

“A wooden den near those large metal things that move……the human side she would fetch big bucks if sold to a zoa, er sou.”

“One of those,” the wolf replied as Eagle appeared with a thick stick. “Tell her I send you……my names Mannitok (is rugged) Mat for short. As a cub I had matted fur all the time so Mat matted.”

Running towards town Balto heard a howl of pain followed by the clang of metal hitting the ground. Under the fading light Balto slipped ghost like into the town, skirting the train station for any sign danger or humans. Sniffing the wind he caught the scent of humans, dogs, coal, food, engine oil, food and at last wolf. Climbing into the station yard via on old train engine Balto immediately caught the scent of dog and the unmistakable smell of alcohol. Walking around to a cabin the source of the smell become apparent, three station workers were laid passed out on the cabin floor. Several open bottles which had once contained whisky sat on a thick blank of wood laid over two upturned barrels next to a pile of cards and money. What’s more the key was in the open door, grinning slyly Balto gently pushed the door shut, with his teeth he turned the key locking the men inside.

“Well that is one problem solved no point having witnesses to raise an alarm,” Balto thought wickedly.

With the key in his teeth Balto jumped inside the old train placing the key inside what remain of the boiler. Leaving the engine Balto’s ears pricked up, a mournful howl ripping through the air. Instantly his fell on a building with the worlds LIVE CARGO STORAGE printed boldly on a sign swinging from the roof. Running over he put his head around the open door, his eyes meeting those of two teams of huskies, a couple of beavers, three snarling wolverines, a pair of bald eagles, several mink and in a cage near the door, a beautiful she wolf. Seeing him the dogs began to bark and snarl, their teeth barred in open hostility to him, itching to be free from their cages. In her cage the she wolf looked up as she caught Mats scent, her eyes looking at him with curiosity. Looking at her Balto saw at her coat was a mixture of light grey, and blue that was similar shade to lightest part if Nada’s coat. Hazel and bright yellow eyes gazed calmly at Balto as he approached.

“Mat send you, thank Aniu is he safe?” asked the she wolf springing to her paws.

Looking up Balto saws that the bolds were drawn, though the main door was locked a little way above the wolf’s head was another door, one which was only bolt but not locked. This was the door through which food was lowered, as the bolts were on the outside of the cage the human had not thought it necessary to put a lock there. Seeing this Balto jumped up onto the cage, with his teeth he drew back to bolts opening the door.

Using all her strength she sprang through the door, clearing the opening with ease. Standing on the top of the cage she jumped down, right onto the top of Balto who was waiting below.

“No problem. So now you are free would you do me the pleasure of telling me your name?”

“Of course I am called Mist after the morning I was born. Well Balto thank you for saving my life,” Mist replied licking his cheek.

“Oh don’t thank me yet we still have to leave this place,” Balto replied looking out of the building.

“The sooner we leave the happier I will feel,” Mist replied joining Balto at the door. “Though I’d feel terrible leaving the other wilds animals trapped.”

“Well we could free them,” Balto replied looking at the cages, though the cages were shut none of them we locked. “We can free them the exact same way I freed you and it would cause problem for humans.”

Quickly both wolves worked to open the cages much to the surprise and delight of the occupants within. The minks and wolverines leaped out of their respective cages like devils, fangs bared and eyes glowing with utter rage. The birds were much more polite thanking the pair before flying away.

“Time we were going. I used to live in a town, I’m half dog ok, and I can get us out of here,” Balto said once the last of the animals had left the building.

“Oh I had you down for pure wolf. Dog, wolf, its only blood, all I care is leaving this place,” Mist replied smiling.

“Oh I’ll be right on your tail Balto,” Mist replied as Balto stepped out of the building.

Silently the pair made their way through the yard under the light of the setting sun, their ears pricked and their amber eyes glowing softly. Passing a cabin Balto saw the door was shut and the men were still locked inside. Voices and a loud screeching drifted through the air causing both to tense. Looking around a corner onto the station platform the pair watched as a train from Anchorage pulled in, its passengers climbed down from carriages while cargo was unloaded. On the platform watching the process was a large dog a mixture of Malamute and St Bernard, catching their scent he turned around, his hackles raising the instant he saw them. Snarling he dashed across the platform sending humans and luggage flying in his wake. Seeing the rage in his eyes Balto and Mist took to their heels, running through the station yard as fast as their paws would carry them. Over boxes, barrels and old metal the pair jumped, Mist tripping over an old pipe that send her to the floor.

“You will not get away from me you filthy wolves,” the Malamute snarled as he caught up with them. “You should be in your cage she wolf.”

“Now on that I have to disagree with,” Mist snarled biting the dog on the shoulder.

“Foolish dog,” Balto muttered turning away as the sound of boots drifted into the yard.

Looking up Mist gasped as the human who had captured her walked into view, looking between him and the dog fear entered Mist’s eyes. Seeing her fear Balto looked at the human to his relief the man was not carrying a gun.

In a flash Balto jumped over the head of the Malamute followed by Mist, running onto the old train engine Balto and Mist leaped over the wooden fence, landing meters away from the human hunter. As Mist landed the fear appeared in the hunter’s eyes, panicking as he was without a gun. Balto’s eyes flashed in anger at the man, before Mist could react, Balto bit the hunter’s leg causing him to fall to the ground, groaning in agony. Smiling at Balto’s actions Mist jumped over the man. Swiftly Balto led Mist through the near deserted streets of Fairbanks both running for the lives.

Leaving the town Mist let out a howl of joy to be free to her surprise Mat’s voice answered her. Both broke into identical grins as relief rushed through them, they were free and they had struck a blow for the animals. Above them they heard a sharp cry, looking up they saw two of the bald eagles they had freed flying free. In reply both howled their goodbye.

Arriving at the clearing they saw Mat, Pukiq, Nada, Eagle, Arden and Mat stood in a circle with their tails wagging in delight. Running over there was wining and nuzzling as the wolves greeted each other. Quickly Mist related what had happen to the other wolves all pleased to meet Mist and impressed by Balto’s ingenuity. Sitting together hours later Arden looked at the two new wolves.

“We’re not sure to be honest,” Mat replied, looking at Arden and the other wolves. “We planned to find a pack we could join.”

“Neither of us are alpha material,” Mist replied. “The idea of leading never appealed to us but to live in a pack, to be part of a family that is what we want.”

“Well from my view you have found it, that is providing the rest of you agree?” Arden replied looking at Eagle, Balto, Nada and Pukiq.

Together the new pack howled a song of joy into the night their voices carrying across the forest. At last a strong pack was formed as the moon rose the wolves planned their next move and just as down broke the pack turned east away from Fairbanks and humans.

As they left Balto’s eyes lingered on the train line, a train line led to Nenana. His thoughts drifted back to Nome and the sled team, for Nenana was the place Steel had collected the medicine from. For a second Balto considered travelling to Nenana then his thoughts drifted to Mist and his actions in Fairbanks.

“Human and dogs are foolish creatures, both ignorant and prejudice against those who are different. I was wrong to trust humans. All they care about is money and status in society. Dogs are little better caring only for breeding and status. If both had trusted me things might have been different. No more looking back at the past Balto you will only look to the future. Your pact with humans is done! Time to move on with your life you’ve lived in the shadow of what happened for too long. It was a terrible tragedy what happened but you are not to blame.”

Then Eagle howled and Balto looked at his pack were waiting for him, returning the howl Balto ran after them. Rejoining his pack Balto nuzzled them, together the pack set off through the forest for a new life.

A year had passed since the epidemic and the death of the children. In the anniversary week the town was again filled with sadness as people remembered their loved ones. Nome had not yet recovered from the tragedy, in the past year there had been unexpected consequences of the children’s deaths. Two of families who had lost children had left Nome on the first ship of the year, one had gone to Juno and the other had gone to the father’s birth state Nebraska. Three couples were having problems while a fourth had split up with the women leaving Nome and returning to her parents in Fairbanks.

Standing in front of Rosie’s grave Arthur, Violet, Rosa and Jenna looked at the flowers that bloomed even in winter. Sitting on the ground Rosa was huddled next to Jenna, only half understanding what was happening. For Rosa as with many of the pups born since the tragedy, had only been told a little about what had happened and their parents intended to keep it that way. Their parents thought it best they knew only the minimum so sparing them the pain and suffering. Turning on their heels Arthur, Violet, Jenna and Rosa left the cemetery tears running down the cheeks of the adults. As the sun began to set, the entire town gathered outside the town hall for a memorial service. Dogs sat next to their humans both kinds united in grief. On the steps of the hall the mayor read out a speech before the pastor preformed a service. As the pastor took his seat Dr Welch climbed to his feet, walking over to the podium he faced the crowd.

“The day I diagnosed the first case of diphtheria was the worst day of my career for I knew then what might happen. I prayed my acting quickly the disease would be contained I then put my trust in the team. I regret that I did not spot the signs earlier.”

Unable to continue Dr Welch returned to his seat his head bowed in sadness. One by one the parents took to stage, some together some just one parent. Each spoke of their child reminiscing about the fun times, telling jokes and stories. Getting up from his seat Arthur walked to the stage with Jenna by his side, Violet remained in her seat cuddling Rosa. Reaching the podium Arthur took a small piece of paper out of his pocket as Jenna jumped up placing her paws on the podium.

“It has been one of the worst years of mine and Vi’s life, Rosie’s death came as a shock to both of us,” Arthur said sadly. “Rosie was a happy, beautiful little girl who saw the best in everyone and never judged. I’ll always remember the day she got Jenna, the look of utter joy on her face will stay with me. Jenna and Rosie united in friendship no better friend did Rosie have then Jenna. They would play for hours throwing balls and wondering through a world of make believe. Rosie loved Jenna, seeing them together on the sled last year was wonderful to see. Rosie had another close animal friend the wolf dog Balto. Looking back I see now that Balto was a good friend to Rosie. I would often see them playing ball or chasing each other through the snow.”

Putting his hand to his eyes Arthur wiped away tears, unable to continue he walked away from the podium. Sitting back down next to Violet, Arthur cried bitter tear for Rosie.

When the last speaker returned to their seat the town’s folk climbed to their feat. Walking together to the edge of town they came to a bronze statue of a husky and two children, a boy and a girl, on a plaque were engraved the names of the children and dogs who had died during the epidemic. One by one the families lit candles and placed them at the statue’s base, each one inscribed with the name of their child. Looking up at the face of the bronze face of the girl Violet placed a candle in front of the statue. At that moment the Northern Lights burst across the sky to the amazement of all. Jenna turned to look at them dancing on the hill above Nome, for a moment a figure appeared in the mist of the light. Time seemed to stand still as Violet and Jenna looked into the face of Rosie, Rosie smiled as a white wolf appeared next to her.

“Mamma,” Rosa’s voice broke into Jenna’s mind breaking the spell. “Mamma people are going back to the town hall.”

As the crowd dispersed Jenna looked back at the lights but all only lights shimmered above Nome. Shaking her head Jenna looked at Rosa and the statue, had she really seen Rosie or had she only seen what she had wanted to see? In the Town Hall people gathered for dinner and to simple support each other, coming together as a community. Dogs dined with their owners, the dogs having special meal themselves that was different from their owner’s food. In memory of the sled team the town dogs had been allowed to join their owners. Sitting next to her mother Rosa listened as stories were told of the past, stories of Rosie, Jenna and Balto. At the mention of her father’s name Rosa’s ears pricked up as she had been told little about him by Jenna. Jenna herself listened sadly to the stories remember them with a heavy heart. .

“I remember the race last year, Rosie had been given a sled for her birthday, she had been asking for one. Seeing Jenna pull it with Rosie mush riding it was wonderful to see. That race where Balto grabbed her hat when it flew off. I suppose I should have anticipated that Rosie would want Balto to pull the sled,” Violet said smiling sadly at the memories.

As story continued emotions surged through Jenna, taking to her paws she ran out of the Town Hall as fast as she could. Overcome by emotion Jenna ran until she collapsed, to her surprise her paws had taken her to Balto’s boat. Silence told her that Boris was out, most likely with Muk and Luk. As if in a trance she walked up onto the boat, jumping on the roof of the cabin she looked up at the sky.

“Balto, why did you leave? I miss you so much every day. If I had only known I was pregnant at the time, we could have been a family. If it's okay I'll leave the house light on
And place your bone where it belongs
And if alright
I'll lie awake at night
Pretending I’m curled up at your side

See I’m circling these patterns
Living out of memories.”

Memories of Balto playing with Rosie flooded through Jenna, of Rosie chasing after Balto when he took her hat. Of her and Balto playing fetch on the beach both laughing as the ball narrowly missed hitting Boris on the head. Balto appearing at Rosie’s bedroom window on Christmas morning, so he could wish them both a merry Christmas.

“I'm still a long way from accepting it
That there's just no you and me

But if I still believe you love me
Maybe I’ll survive
So I tell myself you're coming home
Like you've done a million times
And if it's alright
I'll still be loving you
'cause I can't break it to my heart

Is it just me
Did I commit a crime?”

Jenna thought about her friendship with Kaltag and the other town dogs, how she could never prevent them from tormenting Balto. Her past friendship with Steel when they were pups, racing them through the snow, at times Balto would see them together.

“I won't believe that loving you
Was just a waste of time
Or was it in my head?
I'm reading into things that you never said?

'cause I still don't have the answers
To why we couldn't work it out
I wanna think it's something that I did
So I can turn it back around

But if I still believe you love me
Maybe I’ll survive
So I tell myself you're coming home
Like you've done a million times”
In her mind Jenna saw Balto coming over the hill above Nome and running into town. Balto ran to Jenna licking her and nuzzling her. The pups appeared and Balto greeted each one with a lick. The family walked to Balto’s boat, sitting out on the deck Balto told his children all about his adventures in the wild. With eyes sparking the pups listened, sitting next to him Jenna smiled, at last they were a family.

“And if it's alright
I'll still be loving you
'cause I can't break it to my heart.”

And nothing will come between us
I wanna convince myself we're perfect in
Every single way as long as I can keep
The truth away from my heart
Oh 'cause I can't break it to my heart

'cause I still don't have all the answers
To why we couldn't work it out
I wanna think it's something that I did
So I can turn it back around

But if I still believe you love me
Maybe I’ll survive
So I tell myself you're coming home
Like you've done a million times
And if it's alright
I'll still be loving you
'cause I can't break it to my heart,” Jenna sang, tears running down her cheek.

Walking into the cabin Jenna curled up under Balto’s old blanket, trying to draw comfort from it. Then the sounds of paws on wood drifted into the cabin, Rosa appeared in the doorway.

“Rosa what are you doing here?” asked Jenna looking at her daughter in surprise.

“I wanted to see where you were, I got worried when you didn’t come back to the party,” Rosa replied walking over to her mother.

“That is very sweet of you. Hearing about your Daddy makes me sad,” Jenna replied licking her daughter’s cheek.

“He did not know you existed when he left, I did not even know you existed,” Jenna whispered nuzzling her pup.

Far away Balto stood outside the large cave that the pack had made their own. The cave was on the side of a mountain and overlooked a river that ran meters below. From their spot the wolves could see both the river and out into the forest. In truth it was the perfect place to raise pups. Nearby his pack member chatted or played in the snow, just as Mat jumped onto him Aniu appeared. Climbing to his paw Balto playfully hit Mat on the head before walking over to his mother.

“Is it really a year?” Balto whispered, sadness flickering across his eyes. “A year ago I was such a naïve fool. I miss her Mother but I cannot live in the past. What happened was an accident its place is in the past.”

“You have changed my son all connections to who you were back then are gone,” Aniu replied looking at her son.

“I will not dream of what could have been or mourn the loss of that life. I am happy here to be happy I have to let go of the past.”

“I will never forget the happy times with Rosie, she will be in my heart forever.”

“Nome is no longer my concern. If you go back at all I don’t want to hear about it. My ties with that place are cut. It’s best for everyone that I move on and consign it to a distant memory.”

“Balto there is something you have to know,” Aniu began hurriedly. “Jenna……….”

“NO Mother! I don’t want to hear about it Jenna least of all. It’s been difficult enough moving on from her. She means nothing to me a dog in my past that is,” Balto replied walking over to where Mist, Pukiq, Mat and Arden played in the snow.

Watching him play Aniu hung her head sadly both for Balto and for little Rosa who dreamed for her father. For Aniu had wanted to tell Balto about his children, she had not been expecting his reaction about news from Nome.

“Yet perhaps Balto’s reaction is best for all concerned. Knowledge of his pup’s existence would only cause pain for him and they are raised as dogs. My son wished to start a new. By keeping silence I am allowing him that chance. For the past to remain in the past………… to allow all to move on with their lives…………..Rosa or her siblings would be unable to find Balto without my help and Jenna would not allow them to run off into the wilderness alone. She would talk to them of the practicalities of such a plan, she would prevent them from taking such a path so would their own common sense. Both groups could be happy apart so lifting the shadow the past. The past cannot be changed. What good would come from a meeting between Balto and his pups?” Aniu thought looking down at her sons playing. “I know what the future would have been had Balto saved the children, of Alue who would have been born and become a pack leader and Rosa who would have walked a different path. Will two futures now become one or will Rosa’s fate remain the same?”

Jenna, Rosa, Arthur, Violet stood at the side of the racetrack in Nome. In Violet’s arms was a baby of eight months, her and Arthur’s son. Two years had passed since the epidemic had rocked Nome; at last the town and its inhabitants had begun to heal. For Arthur and Violet this had come in the form of their son who had brought light back into their lives. Time had also healed Jenna; the pain of losing Rosie had eased as she had concentrated on raising her pups and caring for Arthur and Violet’s son.

Up above a gun blasted announcing the one mile marker of the race. In the distance the sound of dogs drifted into the ears of the spectators. Around a corner two teams appeared one led by Kaltag, the other by Steel. Running in Kaltag’s team were Star and Kodi. Catching sight of his former teammate Kaltag gritted his teeth and flashed a look at Star, who nodded in return. Drawing on all his strength Kaltag increased his speed, for a while both teams were neck and neck. In a flash Kaltag’s team broke away from Steel’s, crossing the line first and winning the race. Standing on the sidelines Rosa and Jenna cheered with delight, Jenna’s heart bursting with pride. As the dogs slipped out of their harnesses the pair ran over to congratulate them.

“Uncle Star Uncle Kaltag that was AMAZING! Kodi you were so fast,” Rosa shouted wagging her tail.

“He sure was, Kodi will be a lead dog one day,” Kaltag laughed as Jenna licked Kodi.

“Moommm people are watching. You really think so Uncle Kaltag?” Kodi asked with delight.

“Sure you will Kodi you have talent,” Star replied as the team gathered around.

“You were all wonderful I am sure you will be overall winners this season,” Jenna said looking at her friends.

“Seeing the look on Steel’s face was reward enough,” Star said grinning. “He could not believe we beat him.”

“Steel’s reign as top dog is fading,” shouted Kirby who was on the team. “We see him for what he is. No it is us and dogs like Kodi who are the future.”

“That’s true Kodi and his friends are the future,” Kaltag replied proudly, looking at Kodi and a female dog called Dusty who was also a member of the team.

“Uncle Kaltag do you think my Father would be proud of me?” Kodi asked quietly, a little unsure of what the answer would be.

“He would be very proud of you Kodi, he dreamed of being a sled dog,” Kaltag answered aware of how important the answer was for Kodi.

“He did and was good enough to be in a team, he could have been greater than Steel. You are just as fast as he was,” Star replied, knowing full well how important the answer was to Kodi.

“I’d love to tell him I’m on your team,” Kodi replied as Steel walked over to them.

Silence descended on the team as they waited for Steel’s reaction, well aware of the past and tensions. Kaltag stared proudly at his former team mate, hatred burning in his eyes as Kaltag had been unable to forgive Steel for his actions during the epidemic.

“Congratulations on your win Kaltag you raced well, your teams is now seconds in the overall rankings,” Steel said graciously.

“Thanks Steel your team nearly won thought,” Star replied unsure of Steel’s intent.

“A very close race, I’m impressed,” Steel replied fixing his eyes on Kodi. “Well done kid you race well for a rookie.”

“I call it as I see it, I know a future lead dog when I see one,” Steel replied walking over to Jenna. “So Jenna little changes, you still watch races, listen how about we go someone together tonight.”

“Sorry Steel I have places to be,” Jenna replied moving away from Steel, all too aware of lustful look in his eyes.

“Come now Jenna, I only want an hour of your time for dinner, your pups can take care of themselves,” Steel replied placing a leg around her shoulder.

“My Mother said no Steel,” Rosa said pushing in between the two dogs. “Leave her alone, if she had wanted to join you she would have agreed.”

“Ah Rosa as always so refreshing to see you, this is not your place little wolf.”

Ignoring Kodi, Steel turned his attention back to Rosa, the mixed feelings about her surfacing again. For Rosa was a problem for Steel, as thought she looked like both her parents, Balto who he hated and Jenna who he desired above all else. This mean his treatment of Rosa was always uncertain. What Steel was sure of was that he did not hate Rosa as he had done her father, most of the time he ignored her. This was not shared by other dogs in town that were outright hostile to Rosa and took any opportunity to make her life difficult.

“You need to relax around me Rosa, I don’t treat you the way other dogs in town do.”

“You dare and you will be sorry,” Jenna snapped stepping in. “I’ve not forgotten the past Steel or what you did.”

“Still the same old opinion of me Jenna, I made a mistake all those years ago, for that I am sorry. Think on my offer Jenna, you are still a pretty dog, we could be happy together.”

“I could never be happy with you,” Jenna snapped flicking her tail in disgust. “Kodi, Rosa let’s leave.”

“Sure Mom, come on guys lets go celebrate,” Kodi replied looking at his teammates.

“You could if you gave me a chance,” Steel replied as Jenna, Kodi and Rosa began to walk away. “Balto abandoned you. Accept it Jenna he’s never coming back, you need to move on with your life.”

“DON’T YOU DARE SAY THAT!” Jenna shouted turning on her heal and slapping Steel across the face. “He will come back when he is ready and we will be happy.”

“Ah that hurt. You’re dreaming Jenna, he’s never coming back,” Steel spat, his eyes glinting with danger.

“Mom come on, he isn’t worth it,” Kodi said as he and Rosa gathered around Jenna.

Walking away Jenna shot Steel a look of pure hatred, yet in the deepest part of her heart she knew he spoke true. His words had hurt deeply and yet she could not deny Steel was a handsome dog.

“Don’t be a fool Jenna you love Balto. Steel drove him away from you; remember that Steel caused Rosie’s death. Balto is your true love, he will come back to you, and in your heart you know that.”

Walking away from the race track the sled team regrouped behind the cinema and soon a lively party had emerged. Dogs chatted while dogs attached to the theatre performed popular songs on a set of barrels, dragging members of the crowd up to join them. A rustle of wings accounted the arrival of Boris and his wife Stella, the pair landing gracefully in front of Kodi and Kirby who stood chatting.

“Afternoon Kodi, so then race winner,” Boris said proudly ruffling Kodi’s fur.

“That was one heck of a close race at one point Steels team looked certain to win,” Stella said as Rosa walked over.

“The race was so fun to watch, where we you anyway? I didn’t see you,” Rosa asked nuzzling Stella.

“We followed it from above,” Boris chuckled. “That is an advantage of flying; we can follow the action as it happens.”

“That is cool,” Rosa replied laughing. “I don’t suppose you could drop a bucket of water on Steel sometime?”

“Why what has that egotistic sled dog said to you this time?” asked Stella folding her wings.

“He asked Mum out again, saying Dad would never return,” Rosa replied quickly.

“That again,” Boris muttered putting his wind between his eyes. “He’s persistent I’ll say that for him, so long as he is polite to you that it my main concern.”

“He didn’t have any right to say that,” Stella muttered shaking her head angrily.

“He’s right though,” Kodi whispered as Kirby walked away. “Face it Uncle Boris, Dad has been gone two years, he’s not coming back. Mum needs to accept that instead of pining for him.”

“But it is true!” Rosa finished. “I am judged on his actions every day and I’ve never even met him! Mother would be happier if she let him go.”

“Rosa this neither the time nor place for this,” Boris hissed looking to where Jenna sat talking to Sylvia and Dixie.

“Then when is the time and place? She has never told me what happened and neither have you Uncle Boris,” Rosa snapped.

“I can’t tell you Rosa,” Boris sighted putting a wing around her. “Your Mother made me promise not to tell you, as much as I want to I cannot break a promise.”

Looking angrily at Boris, Rosa jumped to her paws and walked away from the party, slipping into the now deserted streets of Nome. Scaling a fire escape Rosa jumped onto the roof of a suit shop. Standing on the roof Rosa looked out across the snow covered town and into the wilderness beyond.

“I live with the legacy of my father and in the past’s shadow. Kodi has his speed for him the legacy means pride. Saba has Father’s keen wolf sight and Dingo his sense of loyalty. They look like dogs, they are dogs, and they all have homes with humans who love them. I’m not like them, I alone bear Father’s wolf legacy, I look like a wolf yet I was raised a dog. What I am really, a dog, a wolf or just an outcast?”

A few days after the race, Dusty and Rosa walked through town, chatting happily about the new films that were showing at the cinema. The pair had been friends since they were pups, playing together nearly every day. To Dusty, Rosa was a member of the gang and both belonged to the same group of friends. As they past the Post Office they saw Steel and his friends talking. Seeing them a couple off the younger dogs called out greetings, one of the dogs being Steels youngest son who had once been Rosa’s friend until Steel banned contact between them.

“Well this is a surprise a dog and wolf together,” Steel said sidling up to Rosa. “Then again you have been raised by dogs so it is to be expected.”

“Oh just to see how you are getting on little wolf, I take interest in the child of Jenna, especially one who is more wolf than dog.”

“The wolf thing again, why can you not see past my Father and see me for me?” Rosa snapped.

“Your father caused Jenna so much pain and suffering, he is responsible for the death of the children. I find it hard to forget the past, believe me I have tried but it is difficult. If you looked like a dog I could forget that fact as I do with your brothers and sister.”

“Liar! Balto was a great dog and Rosie’s friend; he had nothing to do with her death.”

“You truly have idea what happened back then! Well that explains why you are so proud of him,” Steel said his eyes widening in surprise.

“I am proud of my Father because he was a good dog until your bulling drove him away, you made him feel as though he didn’t belong so he felt he had to leave.”

“Poor naïve little Rosa you know so little,” Steel replied softly circling her. “Ask Jenna the truth about what happened when your father left. You are no longer a pup Rosa tell your mother it is time to end her lies. She has kept so much from you little wolf.”

“No you know half truths Rosa. Have there ever been questions that Jenna has avoided? When you have asked more about the events immediately after Rosie’s death has Jenna refused to tell you? Have you ever seen Jenna looking out to the tundra or wondered why she brushed off other dogs who would court her,” Steel asked lifting an eyebrow.

Listening to his works doubts began to appear in Rosa’s mind, instances when Jenna had refused to tell Rosa about Balto or begun a tale then stopped. Instances when Boris had been speaking of Balto and suddenly stopped or had been cut off by Jenna. Seeing the look of confusion and doubt on Rosa’s face Steel smiled evilly.

“If what you are saying is truth,” Rosa began nervously. “Mother may refuse to tell me the truth. What do you gain from all this? I know you hated my Father.”

“I gain nothing Rosa s I do this for your benefit. Like it or not I have feelings for Jenna, I wanted to be with her. I remember how she once was and I see how she is now. If she refuses to tell then I will, you need to know the truth,” Steel replied turning his back on Rosa. “Think on what I said.”

Watching Steel and his friend’s leave Rosa barely heard what Dusty was saying to her as the pair walked away from the Post Office. As much she hated to admit it Steel’s word rang true, in her mind stirring doubts in her heart. For in her heart Rosa had always known that some details had seemed out of place. In particular there was a large gap of details about what Balto did between Rosie falling ill and dying. Never once had Jenna mentioned what Balto did during the time the sled team were brining the medicine. Those events were rarely mentioned at all by anyone human or dog in the town, but on occasion they had been mentioned those speaking had always shot looks at Rosa or her brothers and sister. Could it be that Steel was telling the truth? If so what were his motivations behind his offer to tell her the truth? Regardless Rosa knew she had to speak to her mother as soon possible.

That evening Jenna and Rosa were sat together on the back porch watching as Arthur playing with his son. Sitting next to her daughter Jenna looked at her with concern as she was unusually quiet.

“Mom I need to know the truth about my father. Steel said he caused the deaths of the children,” Rosa replied looking at her mother in the eyes.

“Then why did Steel say that? He told me you had not told me the full truth about his actions during the epidemic.”

“It does matter Rosa the past is the past forget that Steel ever said anything to you,” Jenna replied hurriedly.

“I cannot forget Mom. I know you are keeping details from me. I have to understand the past.”

“No Rosa you don’t. I admit I have kept details from you, for your own benefit. You are young little one,” Jenna replied licking Rosa’s cheek. “In time I will tell when you are older.”

“I’m nearly two years old. In my life there are so many secrets about what happened long ago. It’s the little I know about my father that I’m longing to know.”

“No Rosa its better unknown about him. One day perhaps I will tell the truth, when you are grown.”

“I’m no longer a pup and I yearn for the truth that you know about my father. I live in the shadow of a past I know little off.”

“Protect me!” Rosa shouted, jumping to her paws, her blue eyes glowing with anger. “I am persecuted as a wolf! The time for lies and secrets is over Mom! I’m an adult. I have to know the truth.”

Seeing the anger and confusion in her daughters eyes Jenna sighed, realizing she could not longer keep the past from Rosa. The day she had been dreading had arrived sooner then she had expected. Despair and pain flooded through Jenna at the thought of having to speak of a past she had tried so hard to forget.

“What you are about to hear……..Rosa………… it’s not going to be the easiest thing to hear but, your need to know is far greater than I ever expected.”

Slowly Jenna told Rosa the tragic tale of what happened during the diphtheria crisis and Balto’s part in the events. Rosa listened with wide eyes, barely able to believe what she was hearing. As Jenna spoke her voice choked with emotions, pain and grief surfacing once more. When at last Jenna had finished her tale she looked at her daughter with sadness, seeing clearly the shock in her daughter’s eyes. Softly Jenna nuzzled her daughter, placing one leg over her, both silent.

Sitting next to her mother Rosa struggled to process what she had heard, the revelations had come as a complete shock to her. Rosa had hero worshiped her father and had made him the hero of thrilling adventures. She, Kodi, Saba and Dingo had often imagined Balto’s part in the events of 1925, each time he had been the brave hero or they theorized he had been forced to flee town suddenly because his life had been in danger. In time they had come to believe their stories were true and that Balto had become their hero. Hearing the truth had shattered this image, provoking questions at the same time as bringing answers.

“Do you still love him?” Rosa asked suddenly breaking the silence, her eyes gazing at the floor.

“With all my heart,” Jenna whispered sadly. “Every time I look at you I see Balto looking back at me, with you most off all my little wolf.”

“I’m glad you told me, as much as it hurts I know understand why dogs treat me in the way that they do,” Rosa replied getting up and leaving the porch.

Slipping out of the garden Rosa walked through the quiet streets of Nome. From the open window of Jo’s music and voices drifted out into the night. Outside the theatre and cinema people lingered in ones and twos, some smoking others trying to remember the way to their hotel. Leaving town Rosa walked up onto the small hill, at the summit she stood and looked out over town. In the sunlight something glittered, investigating Rosa found fragments of broken bottles and the remains of lantern. These were the bottles Balto had once shown Jenna and the ones she had placed on the hill to guide him home.

“The polar icecaps and the sun to the north,” Rosa whispered moving the glass with her paw. “You tried to help a friend back then Dad. A pity your plan did not work out as it should have. Do you ever think about my Mother at all Father? Do you ever wonder if pups resulted from that night? If only you had stayed here perhaps I would not feel so alone. I live in your shadow Father, how is that fair?” Rosa whispered in sadness and anger.

Turning her back on Nome her gaze fell on the open tundra and forest that lay beyond, a sudden breeze swept through her fur, gently tugging in the direction of the tundra. Then far away in the mountains, a wolf howled, the sound reaching Rosa’s ears. Hearing the howl, the call of utter freedom she felt something stir inside her, something at wanted to answer the howl.

Jumping with fright Rosa turned around to see a magnificent white wolf with amber eyes standing behind her. The wolf was larger than Rosa yet its demeanour was not threatening.

“I am a spirit I know many things I am your Grandmother also, my name is Aniu,” Aniu replied smiling to reassure Rosa.

“But of course. I spent much time with him after Rosie died, my poor lost son who nearly lost his life.”

“Why have you come to me now? If you are a spirit then why did you not tell my Father of his pups,” Rosa asked angrily stepping away from Aniu.

“I planned to but on the night I would have told him…………I saw the knowledge would have only brought pain to him. I have watched you from afar since you were born but I could not appear to you until you were ready.”

“No. I see a fine you creature who seeks to understand the past and the confusion you feel about your identity. You called me here Rosa, your heart called me.”

“I…….you are right I am confused, I don’t know who or what I am anymore.”

“I saw the same confusion within your Father. The wilderness calls to you, raised a dog yet persecuted for wolf blood.”

“I am outcast. My Father……..”Rosa began slowly a question burning in her mind. “I want to meet him……”

“I can take you to him if that is the path you wish to follow. I could train you to hunt, to live as a wolf.”

“You could do all that? I could meet him……..ask him all the questions I have.”

“I warn you Rosa that he is not Balto you have been told of, he is a wolf now, all dog traces are gone.”

“Once the shock had worn off he might however I cannot promise you, he could reject you from the start. The choice is yours alone Rosa,” Aniu replied with regret.

Rosa moved as if the speak then stopped unsure of what to say. Seeing the hurt and confusion in Rosa’s eyes Aniu walked away into the night, realizing at Rosa needed time to consider her options. Looking down at Aniu’s paw print Rosa looked between them and Nome.

Leaving the hill Rosa walked back through the now deserted streets of Nome, mulling over the offer Aniu had made. Looking at the familiar houses and streets, happy memories of her family yet at time sad memories bully by other of dog. Thinking back to what her mother’s tale Rosa saw the past in the streets. The place where Balto had fought Steel and many other events had taken place. Lost in thought Rosa arrived at her home without ever intending to go there. Shaking herself out of her trance Rosa looked at the familiar house, yet she hesitated on the porch. Jumping up she placed her paws on the windowsill looking in at the happy family inside. In the glass her own reflection stared back at her, a red and brown wolf with blue eyes, the perfect mixture for her parents. Thinking back to the bullying and cruel words of the other dogs a deep anger burst through Rosa’s veins. In a blinding flash the fog in her mind vanished. Jumping down from the window Rosa walked away from the house the same time as Jenna walked out of the front door.

Running through the streets of Nome as fast she could Rosa smiled as she saw Aniu standing on the hill above town. To her surprise Aniu ran down the hill and the pair greeted each other with licks just outside of town.

“Show me the way to my Father, please teach me how to be a wolf,” Rosa stammered with excitement.

“Are you certain? You will not be able to go back to the life you had before after this” Aniu replied calmly.

“I have to meet him regardless of the consequences. I would regret it forever if I did not take this chance.”

“As you wish Rosa but first you have to explain your choice to your mother,” Aniu replied as Jenna appeared behind them.

Turning around Rosa walked over to her mother, a fragment of guilt in her heart at pain she would cause yet knowing it was right choice. Watching the pair anger and resentment surged through Jenna, she remembered Aniu all too well, having seen her with Balto three years previously. Over the years part of Jenna had come to blame the white wolf for Balto’s decision to leave, coming to the conclusion Aniu had manipulated him, utterly unaware of their true relationship. Seeing Aniu with her daughter Jenna feared what was the come and was determined a protect Rosa from Aniu’s manipulation.

“Rosa what are you doing out here with that wolf?” asked Jenna in a calm voice.

“Mother, I’m going away for a while,” Rosa began softly. “This wolf is going to take me Balto, I know this must hurt but please try to understand.”

“NO. I forbid you,” Jenna snarled with anger, shooting a hateful glare at Aniu. “Come now we have to go home. The idea is foolish.”

“Mom please listen to me……….I know what you went through,” Rosa began.

“I SAID I FORBID IT! Wake up Rosa you will never find him and that wolf will lead you a stray just as she led your Father. Oh I know her, three years ago she arrived and the number of times I saw them together” Jenna spat. “That vindictive, manipulating……..”

“BALTO IS MY SON” Aniu snarled jumping forward. “I am Aniu, Balto’s mother and Rosa’s grandmother! I tried to help my son back then he made his own choice to leave.”

“Fine so be it then. Rosa we are going home now and you will forget you ever met Aniu, you will meet your Father when he returns to Nome. Come now.”

“No Mother I am going to meet my Father,” Rosa replied strongly. “Don’t you understand? I have to meet him.”

Seeing that the conversation was between Jenna and Rosa alone, Aniu retreated to the hill above town realizing at the pair needed privacy.

“Look at me Mother I look like him, I look like a wolf!” Rosa replied looking at Jenna with sadness. “I’ll never find out what and who I am unless I meet him. I don’t want to hurt you but I will leave without your blessing if forced.”

“Swear to me you will return,” Jenna snapped. “If you are set on this foolish trip then swear to me you will come back before winter.”

“I…I can’t do that Mom……….I’m not sure if I will return before winter……..It might take time for Father to be willing to tell me,” Rosa replied turning away from her mother.

“Then I forbid you from going,” Jenna replied forcefully glaring at her daughter with contempt.

“You cannot stop me Mom,” Rosa replied staring at her mother with anger and disappointment. “I tried explaining my reasons to you, I wanted you to understand, I wanted your blessing. But fine, if this is the way you want it. I’m leaving now, goodbye Mom”

Turing her back on Jenna with sadness Rosa walked calmly up the Aniu, tears shimmered in her eyes at her mother reaction and a twinge of guilt flickered through her heart. Guilt at the pain her choice was causing, yet there was anger to as Rosa had honesty believed Jenna would have respected and supported her choice. Reaching Aniu, Rosa felt a weight lift from her, seeing the understanding in her grandmother’s eyes.

“Neither did I,” Aniu replied licking her cheek. “You are making the right Rosa, you are an adult Jenna cannot prevent you leaving. She may not agree with your choice but she cannot forbid you.”

“I wanted her to understand……..I have to leave Nome, I need to find out…..”

“Do not feel guilty Rosa. You have your own life to lead,” Aniu replied smiling.

Turning away from Nome the pair set off across the tundra, side by side they ran, looking up at the mountains Rosa felt as though her life had just began.

A couple of months had passed since Rosa had left Nome with Aniu, at least the pair had reached the territory belonging to Balto’s pack. In the two months that had passed Rosa had become a competent hunter and had learned all the skills a wolf needs to survive. Rosa had picked up the skills quickly, surprising herself and bringing pride to Aniu. There was no doubt in Aniu’s mind that Rosa could live as a wolf quite well, Rosa would be able to hunt as part of a pack and be an active member. Standing in the middle of a forest next to a river Aniu looked at Rosa who stood nervously next to her. Smiling Aniu threw her head back and howled a call which was soon answered by others. Closer and closer the howling came and the pair watched as a wolf pack emerged from the dense foliage. For the first time in her life Rosa came face to face with her father. Balto stopped in his tracks the moment he saw Rosa, barely able to believe his eyes.

“Rosa this is Balto,” Aniu said turning to Rosa. “Balto please allow me to introduce you to Rosa, your daughter.”

“Jenna……you’re Jenna’s………..oh before I left town,” Balto replied half to himself.

“Well it is a pleasure to meet you Rosa,” Eagle said walking over to Rosa. “I am your Aunt Eagle.”

“I am your Uncle Arden,” said Arden. “Come with us to our den, we can speak more.”

Together the group walked up the den site with the rest of the pack, each member introducing themselves to Rosa. Arriving at the den site they were met by Nada and her and Arden’s pups. The oldest pups were yearlings the youngest only born a few months previously, both sets very curious about Rosa. Sitting together the pack gathered around Rosa, keen to hear about her life in Nome and her journey with Aniu. A little nervous at first Rosa told them of her life, avoiding details that she thought Balto ought to hear privately. The pack listened intently, Balto most of all. Rosa ended her tale and smiled as the pack chatted to her in apparent acceptance.

“Rosa……please come with me,” Balto said looking at her. “We….er…..we need to talk.”

Leaving the pack Balto led Rosa into the dense forests of the pack’s territory. Neither spoke as they walked, both unsure how to begin. Glancing at his daughter Balto saw himself and Jenna in her, Jenna, a dog who he almost forgotten about. Still in shock at the fact he was a father, for the first time in years Balto was unsure on what to say or do. Seeing the uncertainty in Rosa’s eyes, a part of him wanted to reach out to her, aware that the least he could do was the talk to her.

“I never expected anything like this to happen, I thought my ties to Nome were cut,” Balto began slowly. “I chose to leave, I’ve……….well I don’t know what to do”

“I had to come and find you…….I guess…….I wanted to meet you,” Rosa replied avoiding his gaze.

“I can see you look too much like me for your own good. What do you want from me?”

“I’m not sure,” Rosa replied shyly. “I wanted to meet you and to understand the past.”

“I don’t know how this will work; I sure as heck don’t know how to be a father. You can hunt I suppose?” Balto asked sceptically.

“Well you can show the pack tonight, if you plan on staying here you will have to hunt, or else you will have to leave. Don’t count on staying long so far the pack seem accepting but they may not be long term,” Balto replied, a hind of hardness in his voice.

“What about you? Are you will to accept me?” Rosa asked turning to face him.

“We’ll see once the shock has worn off. What did you say your name was again?” Balto asked meeting her gaze.

Walking back to the pack, neither Balto nor Rosa looked at each other, both unsure of how to act around each other. Seeing the tension around the pair Eagle and Arden shared a knowing look, both had known there would be trouble the moment Rosa arrived. They remembered all too well the events of 1925 and knew that Rosa’s arrival would have brought confusion to Balto. They also knew what had happened since then and how much Balto had changed. Flicking her eyes through the pack Eagle allowed her gaze to land on Mist, the she wolf had a curious yet welcoming demeanour.

“Rosa come sit next to me, Mother has been telling me you hunt,” Eagle said looking kindly at Rosa.

That evening the pack feasted on a kill, each member taking their turn to eat. Each adult had played a part in the hunt, including Rosa. Looking that her, the pack was impressed by her skill as she had kept pace and hunted as well as the yearling pups. Yet she seemed more confident than they did, her pace a little faster and her skills a little sharper.

“A little practice and you will be a great hunter,” Mat replied confidently.

In the days that followed her arrival Rosa joined in all pack activities, hunting, she played with the pups at the den site to their delight. With Mist, Pukiq, Arden, Eagle or Mat she patrolled the territory, twice taking joining Eagle in driving lone wolves from the land. From Arden she learned how fight and how to defend herself from attack. With Eagle and Nada by her side she learned about the wolf’s natural enemies, the bear and humans. Yet throughout all this Balto remained distant and aloof, rarely speaking to Rosa. This worried Eagle and Aniu as they saw how desperate Rosa was to be accepted by her father.

Three weeks passed since Rosa had joined the pack, Eagle walked with Balto through the woods on the border of their territory. It was a routine patrol the kind the pack undertook daily, however Eagle had an ulterior for patrolling with her brother.

“You have to talk to Rosa at some point,” Eagle said as Balto sniffed a tree. “You cannot ignore her forever. I know it’s hard for you but she deserves to know the truth.”

“It was a shock seeing her, when I see her, I see Jenna’s eyes looking back at me,” Balto sighted turning to his sister. “Rosa brings with her the remnants of a past I have tried hard to forget. I feel guilty she grew up without me.”

“You did what you thought best at the time, Rosa will understand that, all she wants is to be accepted by you,” Eagle replied licking his cheek.

“I want to accept her yet when I look at Mist……. How can I explain to Rosa that I no longer love her mother? After all she has had to go through…………..how do I possibly……?”

“She will understand, part of her suspects already. Have you spoken to Mist about Rosa?”

“Mist understands and she is willing to accept Rosa, she knows I no longer love Jenna so she feels at ease with Rosa. I just don’t want Rosa to get hurt.”

“Then tell her everything, you are causing her more pain by hiding the truth,” Eagle replied nuzzling her brother. “Rosa has lived her entire life in the shadow of an event that happened before she was born. She at least deserves to hear your side of the story.”

“You’re right Eagle……..as painful as it will be for me I have to explain what happened to me and why I left,” Balto replied looking away.

Later that day the pack sat together at near a kill, all full and lethargic as a result, the youngsters the only ones with energy. The adults lay back, some on their backs with their eyes half closed while others watched the pups play.

Leaving the pack, Balto led Rosa through the vast forests of the pack’s territory, the foliage just beginning to turn colour, Fall was just around the corner. Neither spoke, an air of tension between them. At last the pair arrived at the ledges of a large and beautiful lake, the water sparking blue. Standing at the water’s edge Balto turned to face his daughter.

“It all began on a cliff edge with a fight but even then there was still a chance to save the children’s lives. The true beginnings of the tragedy took place on a lake. If you wish to understand the past, I will tell you all Rosa. You may not like what you will hear and I do not apologise for my actions,” Balto said heavily.

“I am ready to hear everything, please don’t leave anything out. I just want someone to be honest with me, I’ve had enough of lies,” Rosa replied with a trace of anger.

Slowly Balto told Rosa of the events of 1925, his cliff top fight with Steel, from the loss of the medicine at the lake, his rescue by Eagle and Arden and his return to Nome. His voice faltered and broke as he described the events that followed his return to town. Pain and grief ripped through him, tears fall from his eyes when he described Rosie’s funeral. Sitting next to him Rosa listened intently as at last she was hearing the full truth.

“In the end I realized I had to leave. When it became apparent my life and that of your mother would terrible. Our actions back then were clouded in grief, we didn’t act rationally and threw caution to the wind. It seemed right, that we deserved to be truly happy, hang the consequences. Your mother took Rosie’s death harder than I did, having Eagle and Arden helped me see things clearly. Leaving was the hardest choice I have ever made,” Balto said looking at Rosa with pain filled eyes. “I left to save your mother and I pain and suffering, I left to have a better life, I thought it best for both of us. I wanted her to be happy, I asked her to forget me….I never meant to hurt her.”

Finishing his tale Balto looked his daughter, regret and pain in his heart at the pain his actions had caused. To his surprise Rosa nuzzled him and placed a paw over his. Tears flowed down her cheeks yet a small smile danced across her face.

“I don’t blame you for leaving Dad not after how I have been treated,” Rosa whispered.

“You wanted Mom to find love again, she didn’t even know about me when you left. I cannot blame you for something you did not know about.”

“I would have stayed had I know about all of you to swear. I was reluctant to accept you to save you pain.”

“I’m not who I used to be Rosa, the dog your mother told you about died with Rosie. I’m a wolf and I have Mist. I want to be father to you,” Balto replied looking out over the lake.

“I want to know you Father. I’m glad I came here, glad you told me the honest truth, no one has ever told me what you have,” Rosa replied smiling widely. I’m happy. At first I came here just to find you, all I didn’t plan beyond that but now………..”

“I do………I’m not sure what to do now. I never expected to feel this way.”

“Then stay a while Rosa,” Balto replied nuzzling her. “Stay with the pack as long as you want to. All you’ve ever known is a dog life so stay here and live as a wolf for a while. Know what it is like to chase down an elk, to patrol the borders to sing in the night. You have persecuted for wolf blood yet you have never lived as one.”

“Of course you can. You do fear anything Rosa, I will take care of you and you have been accepted by the pack. No matter what happens you are my daughter and I will love you regardless of any choice you make.”

Standing up Balto threw his head back and howled a beautiful song of joy and family. Rosa lifted her head and howled for the first time, joy surging through her vines. Looking at each other father and daughter smiled as they sang. Their voices rose into the air, their song carrying for miles across the forest.

Summer changed to Fall, nature prepared for winter. With the pack Rosa lived as wolf, fully accepted by them she took part in all activities. A couple of days after her talk with Balto, Rosa and Mist spoke privately about the situation between them. Though at first a little hostile to Rosa, Most had come to accept her, realizing that Rosa posed no threat to her and she had taken a genuine liking to her. Mist took on the role as stepmother teaching Rosa all the things a she wolf needed to know. This had come as a relief to Balto, knowing his would have been complicated if the pair had hated each other.

Winter arrived with heavy snow and ice, the first the wolves knew of this was went Mat went outside of the den and promptly slipped on the ice. Rushing the see what the noise was all laughed when they saw him sprawled on the ground. Seeing the snow the youngest pups looked at with curiosity as they had never seen it before. Placing a paw into it one pup jumped back as his paw went through.
After a quick explanation of what snow was the pups were soon playing happily by the river under the watchful of eyes of their older siblings and Rosa. As the oldest of the group she was in charge, something which annoyed a couple of the oldest pups. The pups were fast on their paws, darting this way and that through the snow in an exuberant game of tag. Running up a small hill one of the pups sided and slid down on her back, landing in the snow. Shaking herself off the pup grinned happily as Rosa and her sister arrived on the scene, both relieved the pup was alright.

Having seen his sister’s trick one of the other pups walked up the slope and deliberately slide down o his front. Getting up out of the snow he laughed and wagged his tail. Soon everyone was sliding down the hill, some on their front other on their back. It proved fun for all with only a few bumps and crashes, thankfully they crashed into a deep bank of snow so no hard done.

Morning turned to afternoon the adults came and went to the den site on business of their own. Leaving the den site the pups and Rosa went for a walk along the river, the pups sniffing every nook and cranny, their senses taking in every smell and sight. At all times the yearling pups and Rosa were alert for danger. Though few humans came to the area there were plenty of dangers to young wolves. A scent drifted across the wind, the yearlings tensed instantly, a wolverine was nearby. Suddenly one of the pups put his nose into a hillside hole out of which a raging wolverine exploded, it’s teeth bared in fury. In utter fright the pups jumped back, cowering at the vicious creature. Blinded by rage the wolverine advanced on the pup, a streak of red flashed across his vision, seconds later the wolverine found himself bleeding badly from a deep shoulder wound. Turing around the wolverine saw Rosa and the yearlings surrounding him, Rosa’s eyes glowing with anger. Advancing Rosa snarled while her cousins circled the wolverine.

“Now then wolverine you just made a mistake that could cost you dear. Why did you attack my cousin?” Rosa asked her voice low with anger.

“That arrogant little wolf stepped into my den,” the wolverine hissed his sharp teeth flashing.

“An accident, the pup did not mean harm, he believed the den empty. On his behalf I apologise. Now that is resolved, go on your way,” Rosa snapped, flicking her tail from side to side.

“He meant no harm to you. Let me repeat myself,” Rosa replied walking over to the wolverine. “Leave or face the consequences, we have you outnumbered, then there is the pack to consider………Imagine what the pack would say if the pup was attacked, life would become unpleasant for you very quickly, living so close to the den site….”

Hearing her words the look on the wolverine’s face changed from hostility to one of fear, realizing the true implications of any action. Brave as he was an angry wolf pack was a very serious threat, one which he had little chance of beating in a fight, he would be lucky if he escaped with his life. Rosa smirked as she watched the creature’s reaction, her eyes tracking the wolverine as it moved, a look of utter danger in her eyes.

“Keep that pup in line,” the wolverine snapped before vanishing into his den.

Smiling Rosa turned to find her cousins gazing at her with utter pride, taking on a full grown wolverine was something to be proud off. Not only had that, she had left him with a permanent reminder without endangering herself or the other wolves.

“Wait till the pack hears about this! They will be so proud of you, you defeated a wolverine,” said a yearling female.

“A simple matter of reminding him of the dangers, our pack is not one to cross,” Rosa replied as they neared a lake.

Our pack. A phrase Rosa had spoken without thinking, a phrase used constantly by Nada and the wolves. Yet Rosa had never spoken those words before, words that had implications. They meant Rosa was part of the pack, not just a visitor but a member. Shaking her head Rosa banished those thoughts from her mind, wishing to enjoy the day and not dwell on the big questions. A pile of snow hit her face, shaking it away she saw one of the yearlings grinning mischievously at her. Smirking Rosa flicked snow back at him, hitting his in the eyes. With a yip the yearling sprang, knocking her off her paws. Taking to her paws Rosa chased after him, a play fight ensued between females and males, all laughing with delight.

Arriving back at the den site that evening the youngsters were utterly exhausted and the adults impressed, a quiet night for all was guaranteed. Sitting next to her aunt Eagle, Rosa listened to tales from the packs history, as she fell asleep that night, the words our pack drifted back to her.

A few days later the pack set out on a hunt, Rosa among them as couple of the yearlings had been left in babysitting duty. The youngest pups were a little annoyed about being left behind but they had to obey their parents. With Nada and Arden in the lead the pack made their way to a herd of caribou. As they walked the pack talked tactics, forming the outline of a hunt and individuals places. Walking next to Eagle and Balto, Rosa felt her emotions lifted, a ferocious glint coming into her eyes.

Reaching the herd the wolves waited in the foliage watching the herd keenly. With a nod to the pack Arden broke cover, the herd stampeding as the rest of the pack followed him. In and out of the herd the wolves waved, herding the caribou to find which one to take. Running through the herd an old female caribou caught Rosa’s eye, the female was sick. Letting out a short howl Rosa caught Nada’s attention, seeing the direction of her niece’s gaze Nada smiled with satisfaction. Calling to Arden, Nada pointed to the female, Arden then let out a call to the pack. Working together they separated the female from the herd, isolating her. The hunt took its natural course, the hunt a success for the pack.

Feasting together the wolves chatted, delighted with the kill that would last them a few days the adrenaline draining from their bodies.

“Impressive hunting indeed, you chase our target before I had seen one,” Arden said smiling proudly.

“I just saw her and knew she was the one,” Rosa replied blushing with pride.

“I am very proud of you daughter, today’s success is your success,” Balto said with pride.

“Balto is right, tonight we eat because of you,” Arden replied. “You should feel very proud.”

“That is our right. We all feel alive hunting, freedom that is our birthright. No one can tame a wolf,” Balto replied proudly, his eyes shining.

“I understand why you left Nome Father,” Rosa replied turning to face her father. “A town life in nothing compared to this. You chose freedom.”

“I will never go back to Nome. I cannot give up my freedom. I belong to this pack, I belong here,” Balto replied, his eyes shining brightly.

“Neither can I, I want to stay here with you,” Rosa replied looking around the pack. “I’ve been so happy here, happier than I ever was in Nome. I belong here, wild and free as the wind finally accepted for who I am.”

“We are a family, welcome Rosa,” Nada said as the rest of the pack yipped with delight.

Together the pack walked back to the den site, eager to share the news with the pups. Hearing the news the pups yelped with delight, they had grown fond of Rosa and were glad she was staying. Standing together under the stars the pack smiled and wagged their tales officially welcoming Rosa as a member. Happiness surged through Rosa, pride shining brightly in Balto’s eyes. Lifting her head Rosa howled a song of joy; one by one the pack joined her, their voices mingling. Balto and Rosa stood side by side, both howling, their eyes shining with happiness. The voices of the wolves carried far, we are here, we happy, we are family, we are free, they sang.

The months passed 1927 turned into 1928, the third anniversary of the diphtheria crisis came and went without Balto or Rosa acknowledging it publically. In private away from the pack they held a short memorial as Balto had done every year, the one day he allowed himself to think about Rosie. Seeing the pair arrive back, Mist, Eagle and Arden gathered around them in comfort, no words were need to express feelings. The pack worked as it should, pups all grew in skill and the oldest wolves started to rebel, they were becoming teenagers in humans terms, bringing a whole host of problems in the coming months. The relationship between Mist and Balto grew and become open to all, leading to some thoughts that problems could occur in the future. Yet on the whole the pack’s life was harmonious.

It was early March, the entire packed were coming back from a hunt including the youngest pups had started to join the hunts. Nearing the den Balto stopped suddenly, the scent of dogs and human drifting in the wind. One by one the wolves stopped in their tracks, uncertainly running through them. Balto and Arden bounded ahead, their paws skidding to a halt on the snow beneath their feet. Down below next to the river was a sled team and with it a human. As the other wolves joined the pair they looked at the scene with concern, humans were a threat.

“This place is miles away from sled trials, I made certain of that,” Balto replied, his voice filled with concern.

A look of horror crossed her face as her eyes landed on the team and her nose in took the scents. Stepping back from the cliff edge Rosa struggled to regain her composure though her mind was reeling.

“I…..I…..Kodi is down there……..it’s his team,” Rosa stammered looking at Balto.

“Your son Father,” Rosa replied, her eyes wide with confusion. “They shouldn’t be here Nome is far away, something must be wrong.”

“Balto, Rosa,” Arden said speaking at last. “I want both of you to go down and find how the land lies. Everything you can, do whatever you have to, try to avoid a fight unless forced.”

Taking to her paws Rosa raced down to the river, her heart pounding with fear and dreading what she would find. A thousand terrible scenarios raced through her mind, her speed so fast that Balto had to jump in her path to stop her running strait to the team.

“Hold it missy,” Balto said as Rosa skidded to a halt. “You are a wolf now you have to make the dogs fear you. We have the upper paw, they trespass on our land, and we control what takes place. I know this will be difficult for you.”

“Fear us?” Rosa smirked lifting an eyebrow. “Well we are wolves after all I suppose a little fear would not hurt.”

Walking down to the river Balto and Rosa’s expressions hardened, both determined to put fear into the hearts of the dogs. Reaching the dogs Balto howled to attract their attention, hearing the howl the sled dogs looked straight at the pair. The dog’s eyes filled with fear as their dogs landed on the pair, Kodi’s eyes full of shock on seeing Rosa. Stepping forward Star and Kaltag looked at the pair curiously, their eyes widening with realization.

Hearing the words Kodi gasped in wonder while the other dogs gazed in awe, as all had heard tales of Balto. All recognised Rosa and the resemblance between father and daughter was clear. Yet they felt fear, the Rosa in front of them was clearly not the Rosa they had known and both wolves displayed hostile body language.

“Yes Kodi I am your father but know is not the time for that discussion,” Balto said firmly looking at his son. “Star, Kaltag it has been a long time.”

“Your team trespasses on land belonging to my pack. On the cliff watching you is said pack. Now then what brings you here and who is that?” Balto asked indicating to the human.

Then the human, a girl looked straight at Balto, green eyes gazing at him, a child of nine or ten with eyes that showed fear. Time seemed to stop as Balto gazed into her eyes, eyes identical to those once possessed by Rosie.

Slowly Kaltag and Star told Balto and Rosa their tale. Matilda’s families had lived in Fairbanks but had recently died from influenza during a small outbreak. Matilda was now an orphan and her only family were in Nome. Arthur and Violet were to be her guardians as her father had been Arthur’s older brother. Despite it being winter the decision had been made to bring Matilda to Nome as she nowhere else to go. There had been objections on grounds of the dangers involved but these had been utterly ignored. The team had been chosen to retrieve her as the musher was very experienced and often undertook long journeys. At first it done gone well, but a few days previously a blizzard had set in and the team had become lost. Then just a day before the team had unknowingly strayed onto thin ice, though Matilda had been saved their musher had fallen through the ice. Overcome by exhaustion, grief and fear they had collapsed next to the river. Kaltag had broken his right hind leg so he could only limp slowly.

“We don’t have a clue where we are or how to get home,” Kaltag said finishing the tale.

“Personally I think you are a group of fools for attempting this trip in winter,” Balto said in a dry tone.

“No your stupid humans decided for you. Well we need to report this sorry mess to our pack leader Arden, who also happens to be my brother. Rosa stay here and make sure these dogs don’t do anything rash,” Balto replied turning to his daughter.

“Don’t be a fool, you’ll be killed the moment the pack see you, no questions asked.”

Leaving the team Balto walked back to his waiting pack who had been watching the exchange from above. Seeing him and the look on his face they instantly knew there was a problem. Quickly and without being asked Balto related everything he had been told. The pack groaned, Mist and Eagle shaking their heads with annoyance, Pukiq and Mat uttering expletives.

“Does anyone have a suggestion on a solution?” Nada asked looking at the wolves.

“We go down and meet them first, let them know what we rule here,” Arden replied proudly.

“That would be a good first step, dogs are arrogant creatures they often think we are below them,” Mist replied smirking.

Walking together the entire pack went down to the river, their faces hard and cold while their body language was openly hostile. Arriving at the river they found Rosa standing guard, the dogs nervous and Matilda utterly terrified. The tension rocketed as the pack arrived, Rosa smiling at them, a look of pride on her face.

I am Arden leader of this pack, which as you can see is large. My second in command you have already met and you know Rosa,” Arden said looking down at the dogs

“Now we have heard your tale. This sorry mess needs to be solved quickly, that human complicates matters,” Arden said glaring at Matilda.

“She knows Balto, Rosie told her about him, she might trust him,” Kodi said speaking up.

“We cannot do anything until we eat something, we are too weak to think straight” Star said.

“Easy Mist we have to compromise. We will hunt for you today dogs, just to rebuild your strength,” Nada said in a harsh tone.

“We have limits, four days is all you have, then we will force you out,” Arden replied forcefully.

“Arden is being more than fair, consider it lucky you have that long,” Rosa snapped angrily.

As promised the pack hunted and a few hours later Mat led dogs and human to a kill, Matilda gritting her teeth and eating the raw meat. At first she was sick, her stomach churning at the food yet necessity telling her to eat. Watching the dogs eat the wolves discussed the situation, out of ear shot of the dogs yet near enough to watch them closely. Mist shot the dogs hateful looks, remembering all too well her last encounter with dogs and humans. Pukiq felt anger burning inside of him, he had once witnessed a member of his birth pack shot by a hunter. The pups looked at dogs with a mixture of curiosity, fear and scorn, the oldest pups most interested in Kodi who they had heard stories of from Rosa.

“I’m not sure Balto. I hate to say it but we will need your help and experience with dogs. I know the past is the past,” Arden said, regret in his eyes.

“I understand. Seeing them brings back the past, Star and Kaltag were on that team. Not to mention Kodi and the fact that human is Rosie’s cousin, one she told me about,” Balto replied, pain flickering through his eyes.

“The sooner they leave the better for all of us,” Arden replied nuzzling his brother.

“We can handle this Dad, you are wolves after all. They will learn to accept us for who we are now,” Rosa said licking her father’s cheek.

“They will see I am not the dog they knew, I do believe you have terrified them,” Balto replied proudly.

The following day the pack once again went down to the sled team. While Arden and Nada spoke to Star and Kaltag, Rosa and Balto spoke to Kodi.

“What I said yesterday was perhaps a touch harsh,” Balto said smiling at his son. “Rosa tells me you are a racing champion.”

“We won last season and this season we are winning. We’ve beaten Steel’s team twice,” Kodi replied with pride.

“So you left,” Kodi began nervously looking at Rosa. “Mum never told us the entire...….”

“That is a habit of your mother, do you want to know? Well I am happy to tell, Rosa knows so it is only fair.”

As Eagle joined them Balto told Kodi of his past with Eagle chipping in. Kodi listened in utter shock. Like his sister Kodi understood his father, seeing the events from his point of view.

“Mum misses you, when I tell her we’ve met. I mean do you?” Kodi asked hesitantly.

“Have feelings for Jenna? Honestly,” Balto asked cocking his head to one side.

“I’m Balto’s girl now kid,” Mist replied sidling up to Batlo and licking his cheek.

“I love Mist. Your mother is the past for me, I past I never expected to encounter again. I love you Kodi and Rosa but not Jenna. I’m sorry if that hurts.”

“Well you did what you though best. One of the things I did hear about you was that you were pretty fast, care for a race?” Kodi asked to the delight to Rosa and Mist.

“No just that we have more important matters than racing,” Balto replied exchanging a look with Arden.

“Come on Dad just one race what harm can it do? You haven’t even decided what to do yet,” Kodi replied looking at his team and the pack.

“He’s right Kodi, finding a solution is more important than racing,” Rosa replied looking at her brother.

“You are just scared of losing to me Dad aren’t you? Scared I will embarrass you.”

“I won’t race you Kodiak, we can talk but I will not partake in foolishness. Perhaps once a solution to this situation has found I may consider,” Balto standing up.

“No Kodiak! We both have to conserve our strength, you are still recovering from yesterday’s accident,” Balto snapped walking off.

“He’s right Kodiak you need to conserve your strength,” Rosa replied dryly looking at her brother.

“All I want is to have some fun with him like a normal father and son,” Kodi replied.

“There is nothing normal about this situation Kodi, unless you have failed to notice you are lost in the wilderness.”

“So racing him will be fun………come on Rosa it would just be a little fun.”

“You are unbelievable! Wake up Kodi this isn’t the time for a race,” Rosa snapped in anger flicking her tail.

“You’ve changed Rosa,” Kodi replied staring hard at his sister. “You’ve totally changed since you left. You look dangerous and the way you have been treating us, I mean siding with that she wolf Mist and the male Pukiq on the time limited. What’s happened to you out here?”

“I’m glad you noticed the changes. What happened was that I found out who I am and was accepted by the wolves. They have been teaching me how to live so it is only natural I have picked up a few things,” Rosa replied with a confident smile.

“Mom has been really worried about you when you didn’t return before winter she started to panic. She isn’t going to be happy when you return or your new attitude,” Kodi called as Rosa walked over to Mist.

“Oh Kodi you have no idea how much I have changed, you didn’t see what I was trying to tell you. Poor dog I’m not going back with you Kodi but you cannot see that. Oh well if an argument is what comes to so be it because I’m never going back to Nome.”

The following day the pack hunted again for the team, Kodi and Star choosing to watch the hunt. Seeing the ferocity in his father and sister’s eyes Kodi was shocked, how could his gentle sister become something so ferocious? Watching the hunt Star saw the same ferocity he seen years before during Balto’s fights, seeing that the dog he had known was utterly gone. The hunt ended the pair walked over to the kill, both still showing shock in their eyes.

“What is the matter doggies, can’t stomach a hunt? You are timid, cannot imagine how Balto or Rosa coped,” Mist laughed looking at the pair.

The rest of the pack laughed with her, Mist had said what they had been thinking, and even Balto grinned at the remark. The rest of the sled dogs arrived at the kill with Matilda once again eat the raw meat. Despite her likeness to Rosie, Balto kept his distance, his wolf instinct and his own experience keeping him away. Walking back to the river the wolves and dogs sat down together, Dusty sitting next to Matilda with another team member. The group discussed the way home, Balto and Rosa both telling the team they know the way back to Nome. Hearing this, Kaltag and Star exchanged a look, both nodding in silent agreement at their plan.

“No! I can’t lead you home, Rosa knows the way so she can lead you,” Balto replied in utter surprise.

“Balto I will have to ride on the sled,” Kaltag said slowly. “You are the only one who can lead the team home.”

“I cannot lead a dog team Kodi, I am a wolf,” Balto replied, averting his gaze.

“Once you found a sled team lost in the snow and tried to lead them home. You found that team despite the members hating you, you found them to try and help,” Kaltag said forcefully looking at Balto.

“But you are the only one who knows the way home with the experience to lead,” Star pleaded. “Three years ago you wanted to help Rosie, well help now, help her cousin.”

“DON’T YOU DARE TRY EMOTIONAL BLACKMALE STAR!” Balto shouted, turning to face Star with rage in his eyes. “Don’t either of you think you can tell me how to live my life, I don’t owe you anything.”

In a streak of brown Balto sprang away, running away from the team as fast as his paws would carry him. Through the snow he ran with little idea where he was going just the desire to be away from the dogs. The past whirled through his mind, the events leading up the loss of the medicine and Rosie’s funeral. Old feelings of guilt and sorrow filled him, for a second the old self blame surfaced, before sense caused him to brush it away. Anger at Steel and the dogs came to his mind. Jenna’s face slipped in, the time spent with her immediately after Rosie’s death and the joy he had felt. In his mind he saw the glimmer of another life.

Arriving at Nome with the team Balto saw Jenna running towards him with Arthur and Violet. In utter joy Jenna and he wept, reunited at last. That evening the pair sat with their pups, Balto catching up on the missing years. Turning to Jenna, Balto saw utter joy in her eyes, his heart bursting with happiness, at last he was home. Days later Balto and Jenna stood side by side on the steps of the Town Hall as Balto was presented with a medal for bravery. Everyone, humans and dogs alike cheered, Balto was a hero, at last he had been accepted for who he was.

The glimmer faded as quickly as it had come. In his heart Balto knew he would lose his freedom and most importantly Mist if he took that path. Mist was the one he wanted to be with. Walking over to a small stream Balto gazed at his reflection, a proud wolf looked back at him out of the water.

“You are a wolf not a dog and sure as heck not that timid hybrid! You belong wild with the pack and Mist. Chasing dreams only leads to pain so don’t even think of it, don’t dwell on past. You and Mist are betas in a year you could challenge Arden and Nada for leadership. Think clearly about this you were perfectly happy, things with Rosa are great and you have Mist. Those foolish dogs arrived and brought back the past, nearly turning your head in the process. You cannot lead the team, they will just have to accept that,” Balto though, walking onto the top of a frozen waterfall.

Sitting there Balto looked out over his home, the wind bringing the smells to him, eagle, caribou and beaver. Sometime later the sound of panting and the smell of wolf and dog reached him. Turning around he saw Arden, Eagle, Star and Kaltag approach, the latter limping on three legs. Eagle’s eyes were filled with thunder; clearly she was unhappy with the dogs walking behind her. Reaching Balto the trio sat down near him, Eagle nuzzling him gentle as Balto shot the dogs an angry look.

“I came to see if you were alright, these two dogs followed me,” Eagle replied softly, a trace of anger if her voice.

“Kodi can keep an eye on them, he’ll make lead dog one day. Besides with your pack nearby they won’t go anywhere,” Kaltag replied confidently.

“Good luck to him on that score I hope he becomes lead. So did the pair of you come to talk about my son or is there another reason?”

“We need you to lead us home Balto, like it or not you are the only one who can,” Kaltag said sharply.

“Help us then,” Star said. “Will you really let Rosie’s cousin died and abandon your own son?”

“Be quiet Star or I swear to Aniu you will be sorry,” Balto snarled, his sharp teeth flashing.

“You’ve changed Balto,” Kaltag said stepping back away from Balto. “You are not who I remember or who I thought you were.”

“All this time…….not once have you asked about Jenna……..” Star began.

“You used Jenna back then you and that is why you refuse to lead us back,” Kaltag stammered in disgust.

“I never used Jenna I loved her at the time but I realized that grief had clouded our judgments. I should have left town the day after Rosie’s funeral but in my confusion I naively thought I could make a life with Jenna. I was wrong on that score and I’m sorry for the pain caused to Jenna. I never intended things to turn out like this. I do not regret my actions so don’t try tricks with me.”

“We helped Jenna raise you pups, you owe us for that you cowardly wolf scum,” Kaltag spat.

Balto, Arden and Eagle sprang to their feet snarling, their eyes burning with anger, their hackles raised. Not only had the insult been at there brother but at the second highest ranking male in the pack, and one who often led the pack when Arden or Nada were elsewhere. In a flash Eagle had Kaltag pinned to the floor, the dog looking at her with terror.

“Don’t you dare say that to a beta wolf you little dog,” Eagle hissed revelling at the fear in Kaltag’s eyes.

“You just crossed a line. In pack circles a wolf would be punished for that insult to a beta wolf. We see dogs as omegas, at the bottom pack regardless of the dogs standing in dogs circles. I am not a coward,” Balto spat looking down at Kaltag, while Arden snarled at Star who was watching in fear.

“Then lead us back Balto,” Kaltag croaked barely able to breathe. “Do it for Kodi and the girl,” Kaltag said softly, in an effort to persuade Balto and to relieve the tension.

“I cannot lead you, appearing in Nome will only bring heartache to Jenna,” Balto replied bitterly as Eagle let the dog up.

“No it will bring joy. Think about Balto you will be a hero, you will be accepted,” Star replied smiling widely. “Everything you ever wanted you will have, acceptance and Jenna.”

“I no longer want those things, my heart is here,” Balto replied as Kaltag climbed to his paws.

Walking towards them was Mist, seeing her Balto’s heart soared, his tale swishing from side to side with joy as she sat down next to him. Gently Mist licked his cheek, Balto placing a paw across on of hers.

Star and Kaltag exchanged a look of utter shock while Mist flicked Balto a smug and seductive look. Mist was totally different to Jenna in every way, Star and Kaltag could not believe he had fallen in love with a girl like her or that he no longer loved Jenna. Not only that, but Mist had been openly hostile to the dogs and was distrusted by them as a result.

“Surprised?” Mist asked flicking her tail. “Well we are lower ranking wolves after all such things are normally clamped down on swiftly by the alpha pair. But the dog blood combined with plenty of prey allows this pack to differ slightly. I suppose dog blood does have some advantage.”

“You don’t understand do you?” Balto replied shaking his head. “Rosa knows and she accepts, in fact she sees Mist as her stepmother. Kaltag it has been three years since I left Nome, as I told you before I have changed. Jenna belongs in a past that is best forgotten, Mist is my future.”

“I cannot believe I am hearing this” Kaltag replied sadly. “You truly have changed………I don’t know the Balto standing in front of me.”

“It still doesn’t change my opinion that you can lead us home though” Kaltag replied. “I don’t care about your life alright but we are stuck here.”

“Rosa doesn’t have the experience to lead us,” Star chipped in before Balto could speak. “Not in this situation.”

Turning to face the dogs Balto glared at them a before letting a sigh of resignation. In his heart he knew his next words would lead to terrible pain but knew that he had no choice.

“Unfortunately I am the only one who knows the way to Nome and has the experience to lead. Rosa could show them the way but she is too inexperienced to lead, if something were to go wrong she could panic, we cannot take that chance. It has to be me who leads,” Balto replied.

“So be it, but the pack will have to be told first. If you are certain of this course then I will support you,” Mist replied, a hint of anger in her voice.

“I don’t have a choice Mist, we all know the outcome if they remain lost, they will be dead within a week. You’ve seen how dependant they are on us for food.” Balto replied turning to face Star and Kaltag. “I will make this clear Kaltag, I will lead you back but that is where my involvement in your lives ends. I will leave Nome as soon as I am strong enough.”

Returning to the pack and sled team that evening the news was broken. The sled team were euphoric, the wolf pack resentful and angry. Harsh words were exchanged culminating in a fight between Mat and Kirby, Arden and Pukiq having jump in between the pair to end it. Looking at the blood from cuts Kirby glared angrily at Mat who was laughing at what he saw as Kirby’s weakness as Mat barely had a scratch on him. The tension between the groups was at breaking point as both sets of leaders spoke to Kirby and Mat.

At dawn’s first light the following morning the team set of from the pack territory, Kaltag laid on the sled while Balto took his place as lead dog. Emotions ran high, Kodi’s eyes were filled with delight, his father was leading them home, his dream of running with his father had come true. Though she could not understand what has happening Matilda smiled at Balto, part of her knew he was helping her.

Running next to Balto was Rosa, who had decided to accompany the team, arguing that in the circumstances another set of eyes would be useful. This had come as a both a surprise and worry to Balto, glad for another set of eyes yet concerned about her motives. It was clear to Balto knew full well that Rosa considered to pack her home and he couldn’t help but suspect that there were unresolved between Jenna and Rosa. Watching her father and brother interact Rosa knew she had made the right choice to accompany them. She alone had lived with both parents and knew how the events of the past had affected them, in her heart she dreaded what was come when both met and Jenna was forced to see the wolf Balto had become. Balto had answered the dog’s plea for a saviour but he had answered as a wolf and on his own terms. A return to Nome perhaps but it did not mean a return to a past life or past love.

Three weeks had passed since Balto and the sled team had begun their journey, at last looming in front of them was Nome, the snow covered buildings glittering in the morning sun. The hearts of the dogs lifted as their home came into sight, against all the odds they had made it. The journey had been difficult for all but somehow they had survived, partly through the hunting skills of Balto and Rosa and the catching of rabbits and hares by the dogs. Spirits lifted to the stars and the dogs began to bark with joy. Running into town people watched in amazement, they had believed the team lost. Finally the team stopped outside the hospital, instantly people gathered around, helping Matilda out of the sled and hugging her. Moments later Violet and Arthur ran out of the hospital, both embracing Matilda tightly, utterly relieved she was safe. Slowly the eyes of the towns folk turned to the sled team, Mr Connors helping Arthur release the dogs from their harnesses. Then like a ton of bricks Balto’s presence hit the humans, all seeing him for the first time and realizing who he was. Mummers of amazement and utter shock rushed through the humans. The fact was none had seen Balto for three years, for him to appear suddenly leading a dog team was just extraordinary.

“You saved Tillie’s life Balto, I don’t know how you found her,” Arthur said kneeling down and looking at Balto. “I never expected to see again after you vanished, I always wondered where you went. Thank you Balto.”

Extending a hand Arthur moved to stroke Balto, yet before his hand could make contact with Balto’s fur, Balto growled ferociously. In a flash of brown Balto sprang away, running onto the roves of the buildings. Below him Arthur and the dogs were stunned at Balto’s reaction as they had never seen him acted like that. Rosa alone understood, a wolf will not allow a human to touch them.

Like wildlife the news of the teams return speared though Nome, the town gossip chain going into overdrive. News soon reached Jenna’s ears, the red husky running to see her pups the moment she heard barely able to believe the gossip was true. Seeing Kodi and Rosa sat outside the town hall, relief swept through her, her pups were safe.

“Kodi, Rosa thank God you are both alright,” Jenna whispered nuzzling them both. “I have heard the rumours.”

“He has come back,” Jenna gasped her eyes widening. “I knew he would. You have to tell me everything that happened.”

“Please Mom not now, Kodi and I are exhausted we need rest,” Rosa said seeing the hope and joy in her mother’s eyes. “Please let it wait until tomorrow.”

“Rosa is right, we’ve hardly slept in three weeks,” Kodi replied, the tiredness visible in his voice and body language.

“Of course you need sleep, I can tell how tired you both are,” Jenna replied with a voice filled with joy.

Reaching their respective homes Rosa and Kodi fell into an exhausted sleep, their bodies utterly spent of energy, weeks of little sleep taking their toll. As the day wore the humans learned from Matilda of the events, all flabbergasted at the tale yet seeing the truth in her eyes. It seemed incredible, almost fantasy like in the series of coincidences to which no one could offer a rational explanation. Even more amazing was apart from a malnourishment, several cuts, a few bruises and a touch of frostbite; Matilda had suffered no serious injuries. Highly experienced mushers had received sever injuries in similar and less sever conditions then she had experienced. Added to this was Balto’s sudden reappearance that added fuel to rumours of conspiracy, ghosts and magic that left the residence scratching their heads and debating various theories. All clear remembered him and his relationship with Rosie and knew he had fathered Jenna’s pups. They all remembered his sudden vanishing act just after his fight with Steel. Where had he been living and how on earth had he come entangled with the sled team? The same questions were being asked by Jenna she lay watching over Rosa. Was it possible that Rosa persuaded Balto to return to Nome?

The following day dawn bright and clear, sitting together in the wood shed, Jenna, Dingo and Saba sat listening to Kodi and Rosa’s tale. Both told it, though Rosa deliberately left out part concerning Mist and some pack details for she knew they would break Jenna’s heart. As they listened, Jenna, Dingo and Saba could see something had changed in Rosa as she seemed much more confident and her entire demeanour was different. It was clear something had happened to Rosa, something which worried her family immensely. As the tale come to a close Jenna left the shed determined to speak to Balto. Jenna was utterly oblivious at the sadness shining in Rosa’s eyes.

Meanwhile Balto stood on a roof, three strings of sausages around his neck, sausages that had been liberated from the butchers via an open window. Balto had spent an uncomfortable night in the top floor of a warehouse that he had entered via a broken window. Walking through town he found himself the centre of attention all the dogs wanted to know his story and in many cases the individuals wished to apologise for their former treatment of him. Humans to approached him, seeking to pet him, in reply he barked and snarled, before running away to the quiet roves.

“This place is nothing but a cage for me, every instinct is telling me to run as far away as possible as soon as possible. Ok relax you can cope here for a few days, no point running off when you are not strong enough. The humans here won’t hurt you, biting one of them would not be a smart move no matter what your instincts tell you. No the real problem here is Jenna,” Balto though looking down at the bustling town.

Jumping down from the roves Balto left town, following a well trodden path to the cemetery. Passing through iron gates Balto soon reached Rosie’s grave. Red roses and a piece of clear quartz adorned the grave. For the first time in three years Balto stood there, bowing his head he allowed tears to flow from his eyes before falling onto the snow as ice. Pain and sadness coursed through his heart.

“I’ve come back Rosie. I had to leave three years ago, I’m living the life of a wolf and I belong there. I wish you could join me, you would love it wild and free. I’m so sorry for not being able to help you. I caused so much pain to so many by failing. If I could have traded my life for yours I would have, forgive me Rosie,” Balto chocked between sobs. “I’m so sorry.”

Falling into the snow Balto howled a song of loss that reflected the deepest secret of his heart, the undying guilt and responsibility he felt for Rosie’s death. The events long past replayed in his mind, his first offer of help followed by Steel’s rejection and the cliff top fight between the pair and the lake side meeting and Steel’s cruel words moments before the ice. Steel it all came back to Steel. Steel was the one who caused Rosie’s death by allowing his pride and prejudice to cloud his judgment. Steel should have been able to put those aside and accepted Balto’s help. Slowly the guilt and grief subsided into anger as realization overtook Balto. Yet deep within his heart a large shard of guild remained for he could never truly forgive himself nor be free of the feeling that his actions contributed to Rosie’s death.

“It was a true tragedy. In those conditions it would have taken a miracle to save their lives. Even if you had managed to lead the team they still could have died before the medicine arrived,” Balto whispered looking at the graves. “The past is the past you cannot dwell on it or change it. Leave Balto before the past consumes you, return to the wolf life you have worked for.”

Then the sound of paws crunching on the snow drifted into Balto’s ears. Turning around Balto saw Jenna standing behind him. Time seemed to stop as the pair stared at each other, the past standing between them like a chasm.

“I’ve missed you,” Jenna replied bounding over and nuzzling him. “I heard all about the team from Kodi.”

“He is a fine dog and I hear Saba and Dingo are fine pups,” Balto replied awkwardly.

“They are, you have to come and meet them now, I felt them talking to Kodi and Rosa,” Jenna replied excitedly.

Despite deep sense for foreboding Balto allowed Jenna to lead him to her house where, sitting on the front porch, they found Saba, Dingo, Kodi and Rosa. Seeing their father Saba and Dingo greeted him politely, though neither were overly curious nor felt they particularly needed him. Sitting next to his children Balto told them of his life in wild, in return hearing of their lives in Nome, feeling touch of guilt at his absence from their lives. Seeing her loved ones together Jenna’s heart almost burst with joy, her dream had come true, Balto had returned to her. Laying her head on his shoulder Jenna felt an utter happiness she had not felt since Balto left.

Over the next few days Balto spent most of his time with Jenna and his pups. As the truth of the events surrounding his reappearance emerged Balto was accepted into the town, those dogs who had long ago bullied him apologising for their actions. At a meeting of the town dogs Balto and the team told their story for all to hear. After the story finished the dogs cheered Balto’s name, he was a hero and saviour of their friends. Much to his embarrassment the dogs had called on him to make a speech, which he made hastily and with a ruby red glow to his fur. No longer an outcast but one of the gang, Balto had attained everything he had ever wanted.

A week had passed since Balto had returned to Nome. Standing inside the cabin of an old fishing boat, Balto looked around the place he had once called home. The boat had suffered from the weather and was very dilapidated. He stood alone on the boat deserted. Boris had left with Stella at the beginning of winter as it had become clear that he was no longer needed by Balto and Jenna’s pups. Muk and Luk had vanished a year previously and none knew what had happened to them, they had simply gone one morning fishing and never returned.

“Nothing here but memories of another life, ghosts of the past,” Balto said walking out into the deck.

That was where Rosa found him a short time later, his eyes glazed over, his mind far away. Jumping onto the boat Rosa nuzzled him as she sat down next to him.

“I knew I would find you here,” Rosa said looking at him. “I used to play here as a pup.”

“I wanted to be here again, just in case my feelings were wrong. I thought……….”

“Being here with your mother and siblings had brought doubt into my heart; I began to question what I know to be true. I have to leave Rosa yet I have no idea how to explain to your mother. You know how she is,” Balto sighed looking away.

“Tell her a couple of days before you leave, don’t just leave suddenly this time. I know what she thinks as well as you. She still sees the Balto she knew three years ago, you have to force her to see you as you are now. She has to be forced to face reality.”

“I can tell, no denying you are Aniu’s grand pup. I know what I have to do, doesn’t make it any easier but it has to be done,” Balto replied heavily.

The following afternoon Balto found Jenna playing with Matilda in the back garden of Arthur and Violet’s house. A snowman stood in the garden and the pair were playing fetch with a bright yellow ball. Letting out a bark Balto caused the pair to look his way, both smiling widely when they saw him standing at the garden gate.

Leaving the garden the pair walked through Nome, Balto leading Jenna through the backstreets to avoid attention. Sounds of town life drifted into their ears, men shouting, customers talking, and the chink of coins hitting the metal tills of the shops. Silence hung between Balto and Jenna as they slipped unnoticed through town, the calm before the storm. Leaving the town the pair walked out onto the sea ice, one of the few places that guaranteed privacy. Looking at Jenna, Balto felt a lead weight in his heart, hating himself for what he was about to do.

“Balto this is all very mysterious, why have you brought me out here?” Jenna asked giggling with curiosity.

“We have everything we ever wanted, you are accepted and we can be together at last. I knew you would come back to me, despite your parting words,” Jenna replied, utter joy in her eyes.

“Oh Jenna you don’t see do you?” Balto asked shaking his head. “In two days I leave town.”

“LEAVE! No Balto you can’t! You have everything you ever wanted, you cannot throw all that away,” Jenna replied stepping back, her eyes wide with surprise.

“I have all another me wanted years ago. I am no longer the Balto you remember, the one you hold in your heart. That Balto died with Rosie,” Balto replied looking at Jenna with pity. “I did not want to return Jenna. I only did so to save the lives of the sled team and Matilda. I’m sorry.”

“Please Balto do not hurt me again, our pups, all the lost years,” Jenna pleaded.

“They do not need me they barely know me. Please Jenna for your own sake see me for who I am rather than who I was.”

“Here I stand alone
With this weight upon my heart
And it will not go away
In my head I keep on looking back
Right back to the start
Wondering what it was that made you change?” Jenna sang looking into Balto’s eyes to find a trace of the Balto she loved.

“Well I tried
But I had to draw the line
And still this question keeps on spinning in my mind

What if I had never let you go
Would you be the Balto I used to know?
If you’d stayed
If you'd tried
If we could only turn back time
But I guess we'll never know

Many roads to take
Some to joy
Some to heart-ache
Anyone can lose their way
And if I said that we could turn it back
Right back to the start
Would you take the chance and make the change?” Jenna sang turning to face Balto. Seeing the look Balto turned on his heal and walked away.

“Do you think how it would have been sometimes
Do you pray that you'd never left my side?

What if I had never let you go
Would you be the Balto I used to know
If you'd stayed
If you'd tried
If we could only turn back time
But I guess we'll never know

If only we could turn the hands of time
If I could take you back would you still be mine?” Jenna cried out in pain as she watched Balto walk away.

“'Cos I tried
But I had to draw the line
And still this question keep on spinning in my mind

What if I had never let you go
Would you be the Balto I used to know
What if I had never walked away
'Cos I still love you more than I can say
If you'd stayed
If we'd tried
If we could only turn back time
But I guess we'll never know
We'll never know.”

Finishing her song Jenna collapsed into the snow, her tears staining her fur, her heart full of pain and confusion. A dream she had held for three long years had been shattered yet her heart refused to believe Balto’s words. In her mind she saw Steel’s past treatment of Balto, reason enough for Balto to fear staying in Nome. In the fading light of dusk Rosa found her mother on the ice all too aware of what had taken place. In her heart Rosa knew she that had to speak to her mother, someone had to open Jenna’s eyes to reality.

“Father isn’t who he was when you knew him,” Rosa said softly, lying down next to her mother, her head resting on her mother’s back. “He doesn’t belong here.”

“He does Rosa he belongs here with his family. Just when he has gained everything he dreamed of he plans to leave. He only sees the past here, he doesn’t see how much has changed or the future he can have. I love him so much. I lost him once I will not lose him a second time, not when our fairytale has come true.”

“You love who he used to be not who he is. Mom please listen to what I’m saying,” Rosa pleaded. “I’ve lived with him for months I’ve experienced the life he has been living. The Balto you loved is gone, he has changed. He is a wolf Mom not a dog.”

“No he only changed because he was forced to leave Nome. He belongs here, with me, you, Kodi, Dingo and Saba. We can be happy together, a family,” Jenna replied forcefully glaring at her daughter.

“Open your eyes Mom to the wolf my Father is before you are hurt again, you have to stop living in the past.”

Balto’s decision to leave Nome spread through town like wildfire. Kodi was utterly shocked, Saba and Dingo cared little. Kaltag shock his head sadly, the news came was no surprise to him or Star. Steel and many of the other dogs were angry, angry at the effect it would have on Jenna.

Two days later Balto stood looking out at the boats that were moored in the harbour. In his mind he planned what he would say to Jenna and his pups before he left Nome forever. To his surprise Steel walked up to him, for a brief time the pair stood silently next to each other.

“So Balto I hear you plan to leave town again. Do you have any idea what this will do to Jenna?” Steel snarled in a voice filled with anger. “Or doesn’t it matter?”

“Of course I know how it will affect Jenna” Balto snapped angrily glaring at Steel. “I’ll say this once. I did not want to come back but I was the only one who could lead the sled team back to Nome.”

“Well you have whether you wanted to come back or not the damage has been done half breed. Jenna had started to move on with her life after Rosa left, she and I even started meeting socially,” Steel sight looking at the boats. “It would have been better if you had never come back, you or your daughter.”

“Well this is a first wolf dog. I should kill you for what you have to done Jenna. Did you ever care for her or did you just use her? That is why you left she was nothing but…..” Steel began.

In a flash of brown Balto knocked Steel onto the floor in a fit of rage at what Steel was suggesting. Lying on the floor Steel felt fear running through him as he had not been expecting such a ferocious response. Staggering to his paws Steel saw Balto bristling with cold rage the murderous look in his eyes sent shiver down Steel’s spine. Instantly Steel realized that Balto could quite easily kill him. Keeping his eyes locked on Balto, Steel slowly moved to one side.

“NEVER IMPLY THAT AGAIN STEEL OR I SWEAR YOU WILL SUFFER,” Balto howled in rage. “I loved Jenna but staying would have condemned both of us to a life of unhappiness. Now do I have to hurt you or do you understand?”

“I noticed, you’ve changed Balto, you’re not the Balto Jenna fell in love with. I hate to admit it but I see why you’re leaving.”

“Glad we agree on that,” Balto replied calmly. “Take care of her Steel when I’m gone.”

“Wait you are letting me………” Steel replied staring at Balto in utter amazement. .

“Jenna doesn’t belong to me, if you want her then try for her paw provided you don’t hurt her.”

“I could never hurt Jenna despite what you might think,” Steel replied in an unusually soft voice.

“Then you are a better dog then me, take care of her Steel,” Balto replied walking away.

A few hours later in the fading light Balto, Jenna, Rosa and Kodi stood at the edge of town. Saba and Dingo had not wanted to see their father leave as both had their own lives, Saba had a date and Dingo had a pregnant girlfriend to look after.

“Why do you have to leave Dad? Don’t you care about us?” Kodi asked looking at his father with confusion.

“I looked up to you, Steel was right about wolves being vain and selfish,” Kodi replied, tears in his eyes.

“You looked up to someone who never really existed. Kodi you will make a fine lead dog one day. You are the dog I was, within you are the best dog characteristics I once possessed,” Balto said proudly gazing at his son.

“I will Dad, I promise. I’m glad I’ve met you and I understand, as much as it hurts I realize your pack is your true home. Will I ever see you again?”

“Well goodbye and good luck, I’m glad I had the chance to meet you,” Kodi replied nuzzling Balto. “Come on Rosa, Mom and Dad need some privacy.”

“I’ve found my place in the world as a wolf. My heart belongs to the forest, running free with my pack. I know who I am at last, a wolf,” Rosa replied smiling happily.

“Rosa you cannot leave again. You left once to try and find Balto, you have found him but Nome is your home,” Jenna snapped looking at her daughter.

“No its not, it never truly was. Mom, please accept me for the wolf I truly am. The wilderness calls to me, the freedom that is the wolf’s birthright runs through me,” Rosa replied turning away from her mother. “I cannot remain here and be caged forever. Dad’s pack accepted me on sight, they helped me see who and what I truly am. I love you Mom but I cannot pretend to be someone I’m not.”

“Then please let me go, for both you sakes you have to let me be free,” Rosa replied turning to Balto.

“Jenna see your daughter for who she is, a beautiful, strong, intelligent young she wolf. I’ve seen her hunt Jenna, she is amazing, she is a true wolf from ears to tail,” Balto said proudly.

“I cannot let you go Rosa, you are my pup, you belong here with your family,” Jenna replied harshly. “Go home Matilda will want to play with you.”

“Dad is right Mom” Kodi said looking at his mother. “Rosa is a wolf through and through. I saw how she acted with the pack and you can see how different she is.”

“She only acted like that to fit in with the pack,” Jenna snapped glaring at her son for siding with Rosa. “Rosa enough of this foolishness your place is here with your family. Wake up girl and face reality.”

“You’re wrong Mom I belong with my pack. I’ve tried to do this gently as I hoped you would understand but you just refuse to accept me.” Rosa replied, her eyes full tears yet anger burning in her heart. “Goodbye Mom, don’t expect to see me again. Kodi thank you for understanding my choice, I’ll always remember you.”

With a last looked at Kodi and Jenna, Rosa bounded away from Nome, reaching the hill she disappeared from view. Smiling sadly at his father Kodi walked back into Nome leaving his parents alone. A mixture of anger and pain showed in Jenna’s face while on Balto’s there was only sadness. In his heart Balto saw a spark of love that remained for Jenna, a small spark that wanted to be with her. But reality had taught him that a relationship between a wolf and dog brought suffering, in the end it was better for all if both worlds remained separate.

“Please Balto stay here with me, don’t make the same mistake as last time,” Jenna pleaded, placing a paw over his.

“It was no mistake. Open your eyes Jenna and see who I am now and not who I was before,” Balto replied moving his paw away.

“He still lives deep down inside you. Balto I have waited for you all these year, I raised our pups. I love you, despite all that has happened what we went through back then……don’t you love me at all?”

“Yes damn it a small part of me will always love you!” Balto shouted in reply. “A small part of me remembers our past and the fun times with Rosie……”

“That small part doesn’t love you enough to stay here. Too much has happened since then, I have changed, the Balto who loved with all his heart is gone. My heart belongs to the forest. You don’t know me or love who I am now. There are things I have done that you would never understand. My feeling for you have changed I don’t love you like I did before.”

“No that is impossible! We are destined together. I can be yours, ask me to do anything and I will do it, I’ll leave Nome to be with you,” Jenna cried tears streaming down her face.

“I have moved on Jenna. I love a she wolf called Mist who is a member of my pack. Hold our past as a fond memory, our pups are the beautiful legacy of that love, be happy with that. Don’t live in memories anymore, experience love again with a dog who loves you in return. Too much has happened for us to have a future together. For your own sake Jenna let me go.”

“I have to Jenna. It would have been easier if I had never returned. Goodbye Jenna.”

Turning away Balto’s set off at a run away from Nome, tears falling from his eyes as he ran. His heart ached with sadness yet he knew it was the right choice. Reaching the top of the hill Balto saw Rosa waiting for him, her eyes shining with happiness and sadness. Reaching her Balto saw her cheeks streaked with tears. No words needed to be spoken between them, their eyes saying all that needed to be said. Lifting their heads Balto and Rosa howled a song of freedom, freedom at the wolves owned. Ending their song father and daughter turned their backs on Nome one last time, side by side they ran across the tundra, back to their pack and their wolf lives, never to see Nome again.

Ten years had passed since the tragic diphtheria outbreak in Nome that had resulted in the loss of thirty children. Of those children who had survived two more had died in the following years from influenza after never regaining their full strength. Nine more children who had lived through the epidemic had left town in the subsequent decade among them Jonathon. Jonathon had left on the first ship that arrived in 1928 taking Kaltag with him the pair now lived in New York. Jonathon now worked as clerk in a prestigious law firm where he was highly thought of and well paid. Recently married with a baby on the way Jonathon had achieved a sense of peace in his life, he had little contact with his former town or his parents beyond the odd letter. Kaltag had also achieved peace with the past, peace that had come slowly over the years.

Of the others who had left six had been in their early teens at the time of the outbreak and had left town as soon as they were able. Little had been heard of them since, though it was known that a boy and girl, both fifteen at the time of the outbreak, had married each other and now lived in Seattle. The remaining two children had left with their families three and four months after the outbreak for a fresh starts in Fairbanks and Juno. The children who had survived were now teenagers and young adults, all carrying the emotional scars of losing their friends. The older residence could see the restlessness in some of them; restlessness which had increased in the lead up to the tenth anniversary, no doubt some would leave when the spring came. Nome had gradually recovered, children had been born, new residence had come yet the epidemic still cast a shadow over the town. During the anniversary period of the epidemic several fights erupted fuelled by grief and illicit alcohol resulting in the perpetrators to spend a night in the cells.

Gathering together at the Town Hall the town’s folk sat in silence at a memorial service for the children. Humans and dogs sat together in groups, some reminiscing, others talking of recent events, the youngsters in each group having less connection to the events than older residents. In the crowed sat Jenna, sitting next to her was Steel and dotted around were both her pups with Balto and her pups with Steel.

In the months that followed Balto and Rosa’s return their pack, Jenna had forced herself to change, rejecting all she had once been. With a broken heart she had done what Balto had asked to her to do, forget him and rebuilding her life. In her new life she had accepted Steel’s offer for a date. At first this had been a shock to Kodi, Saba, Dingo and her friends but they had been forced to accept the situation as the relationship between Steel and Jenna deepened. Consumed by hatred for Steel, Kaltag had washed his paws of Jenna. Kodi had soon followed suit as Steel’s past treatment of his father was something the young husky had been unable to look past. A year after their first date, Jenna had given birth to the first of her and Steel’s two litters of pups. Both litters looked a mixture of their parents, with some pups being identical to one parent while others had red and black fur. The pups got on well with Saba and Dingo but had little contact with Kodi, nor were they aware of the existence of Rosa. Time had passed now Jenna and Steel had grand pups.

Balto had been virtually forgotten by all but Kodi, Balto’s colouring appeared in the pups of Kodi, Saba and Dingo, though thankfully his wolf appearance had not. He had been briefly mentioned to the pups but he was only a shadowy figure to them, a figure who appeared in adventure stories told at bedtime as a valiant hero, more mythical then real.

Sitting next to Steel, Jenna watched as mayor walked onto the steps of the Town Hall, as he began to speak, Jenna could not help think of Balto, where he was and if he was even aware of the anniversary. In her heart she had never stopped loving Balto, at times she still dreamt of what might have been.

Hundreds of miles away Balto sat at the edge of a lake next to Rosa and Aniu, all too aware of the anniversary. In the decade that had passed Balto had changed, his fur was greying and his speed was slowing. In months immediately after his and Rosa’s return, Balto had begun to slowly challenge Arden’s authority as alpha male. Simultaneously Mist had slowly challenged Nada’s position as alpha female. The situation had come to a head the following January when Balto and Mist formally challenged Arden and Nada for pack leadership. In the ensuring conflict Balto and Mist had emerged victorious and ruled the pack for the next five years until losing control to one of their sons. Both were now old and lived happily in the pack under their son and his mate’s leadership.

For Rosa to times had changed a few weeks after before Balto and Mist had taken leadership she had left to find a pack of her own. Now seven years on, she lead a large pack with her mate, their pack neighbouring that of her father. Rosa had pups herself, some had inherited Jenna’s colouring but all looked like wolves, with no knowledge of their dog heritage. Despite living in different packs Balto and Rosa always spent the anniversary of Rosie’s death together, as packs found it hard to argue with the leaders. Rosa’s pack was unaware of her dog heritage, as far as they knew she met her father every year on the anniversary of her mother’s death.

“Ten years ago,” Balto muttered shaking his head. “So much pain and suffering, so much lost in a single tragic event.”

“A foolish dog and a deadly illness,” Rosa replied putting a paw over her father’s.

“Lives changed for the better or worst. I cannot tell which, if only Rosie had lived,” Balto sighed, blinking away tears.

“Jenna has always been in my heart, how could I not when the beautiful legacy of our relationship is sitting in front of me? Years ago I chose a path and I have been happy, I have no regrets. Ah forget an old wolf rambling,” Balto replied, brushing away the memories.

Despite the years a small part of Balto still loved Jenna and wished the events had gone the other way. In his heart there was a hole left by Rosie’s death that had never healed the same hole that existed in Jenna’s heart, the legacy of a tragic loss. Balto and Jenna could never stop loving each other for they were the others true love. It is said true love can overcome all but in rare occurrences true love is doomed to tragedy.

Back in Nome the memorial service had ended, humans and dogs had gathered inside the Town Hall for a communal dinner. Standing outside a red wolf looked in through a window at the humans inside. The wolf was young and female, her coat gleaming red, her eyes emerald green. The wolf looked sad, her eyes fixed on a boy of seven with shining emerald eyes and brown hair. Out of the shadows stepped Aniu, a sad smile her face as she joined the red wolf at the window.

“The pain you feel when you visit them will never ease Rosie,” Aniu said softly “Tonight if you wish you can appear to them.”

In a flash of red light the red wolf turned into a human girl of sixteen with long red hair and emerald eyes, dressed in a long white dress and silver cloak. Looking at Aniu, Rosie smiled sadly before turning back to the window, one hand touching the glass.

“I want to, but I’m scared of what I will say if I meet my parents and Jenna. I want to hold my parents hands again,” Rosie replied tracing a heart on the frosted covered glass. “If they see me I’m scared I might tell them the true. If I do…….”

“You will be forbidden from returning to Nome until they die. You must do what you deem best Rosie, today was the day you died after all,” Aniu replied nuzzling her hand.

“I just want them to know I’m happy,” Rosie replied stroking soft Aniu’s head.

An hour later human and dogs gathered at the memorial to the children, a bronze statue of a husky with a boy and a girl, the names of the children inscribed on a plaque. One by one the families lit candles inscribed with the names of their lost child. Those residents who had not lost children held blank candles. On by one the candles were placed at the base of the statue, tears running freely. Slipping into the crowd Rosie watched as Violet and Arthur placed three candles with her name on it on the ground. Tears streamed from her parents and Jenna’s eyes, her little brother looking at the scene with confusion. The tears twisted like a knife in Rosie’s heart. For a moment she hesitated, unsure how to approach her family or what she would say.

“Please don’t be sad Jenna, Rosie is happy,” Rosie said walking over to Jenna.

Turning around Jenna took in the red wolf with green eyes, eyes that looked very familiar. Seeing the surprised look on Jenna’s face Rosie a slight panic rise within her, perhaps she should have stayed hidden.

“Oh thank you, I miss her so much,” Jenna replied softly, shaking her head of silly ideas.

Seeing her parents Rosie’s heart ached to hug them yet she willed herself to stay in her wolf form. If she became human she ran a high risk of them realizing who she truly only by reaming wolf could she interact freely with them. Wagging her tail Rosie jumping up and licking both of them in turn. Unknowingly both ran their hands through their daughter’s thick red fur. Utter joy spread through Rosie’s body as she stood with her family; grinning from ear to ear she laid her mother’s shoulder. Jumping down she looked up at her human family.

“I wish it were possible for me to tell you who I am. I’ve missed both of you so much yet I am happy now. I don’t blame you for my deathl, I love you and I will always watch over you.”

Out of the night the Northern Lights burst across the sky illuminating the sky. Aniu appeared in their midst her white fur contrasting with the bright colours. With a last lick of her parent’s hands Rosie howled before running up onto the hill above Nome to join her. The eyes of humans and dogs alike fixed onto the pair as both howled together. Then in the midst of the lights Rosie changed into her human form, in her hands she held a single red rose.

The townsfolk could hardly believe their eyes at the sight of a human and a white wolf standing together. Seeing her parents Rosie smiled, before disappearing as the lights changed shape. Slowly the shocked residents returned to their homes all convinced they had seen a ghost.

As the years passed a legend would grow in Nome of a red haired girl and a white wolf who were always seen during the anniversary period of the diphtheria epidemic. It was said by some girl was the malevolent ghost of a child who had died during the epidemic and haunted Nome out of anger. Others argued she was benevolent ghost who a guardian the town against a further epidemic. The theories varied but all agreed she was tied to the diphtheria epidemic, the ghost of Alaska’s greatest tragedy that would forever haunt Nome.

Actual name of the musher who drove Balto’s team

Emily Morgan is a real person and nurse who tended to the children in 1925

Dr Welch was a real person and the doctor in Nome at the time of the epidemic

The place where Steel and the other dogs gather in the film not the room behind the hospital

The place where Balto jumped over the boats in the race scene of the film

Can’t break it to my heart by Delta Goodrem with alterations

The following set of dialogue is based on In my Life from Les Miserable

Sentences provided by my Mum

Song by Kate Winslet What if with changes

Place where Balto jumped/ran over boats in first film when competing for a place on the team

Imagine a medieval styles dress