There he was on a chilled concrete floor. The light was dim and the air was damp and dusty. He didn't know if he was in the pound or in a cave. The only reminders that he was in the pound was the stench the other dogs gave off and the sound of mocking laughter when his name was mentioned. He spent most of his days resting and pacing, resting and pacing. He never said much of anything anymore. He remembers he was a big talker and other dogs believed in him. He remembers whenever he lifted his paw, dogs would flinch before he ever struck. He remembers whenever he growled, dogs would back away. Then came in that wolfdog. An outcast, a social loser, a nobody, stood up to him and took his crown and instead he became the outcast, the social loser, and the nobody. After that, he had no friends, no comrades, no team or even a master. Yes, his master never forgave him. His master saw that he was a failure and an embarrassment. That's how he wound up here in this pound. For two and a half years he stayed here, eating dry tasteless food, drinking rusty water, and having only cockroaches to talk to. Not even the rats would talk to him, for they heard what happened. To him, this was a hell; to be alone.

But today was a special day. His two and a half years were up and they were going to finally take him home. But this isn't the home you and I think of. To him, home was where he came from; the void. Just as he left the void from being born, he will now return. He had no idea what death would be like, but he was ready. He waited anxiously for those approaching boot steps and the sound of jingling keys.

Yes! He could hear them now! The steps of those thick rubber soles sounded like a bass drum, booming down the hallway. His cage faced directly down the hallway. He could see that shadowy figure slowly approach. The keys sounded like the bells on a Christmas tree. Everything sounded so nice to him, you could almost see a smile, for his messiah was coming. The cage opened and let out a squeal that echoed through the dark damp hallway. The figure took a breath and sighed,

“Come on Steele. We have to go.” Steele got up steady without hesitation and rose proudly on his feet. The figure put a muzzle around Steel's snout and tightened it until it felt like it was a part of his own skull. Steele walked beside the man, slowly down the hall. Other dogs watched as they saw the once glorious Steele of Nome, being reduced to a statistic to a random pound in Fairbanks. Some jeered him, or laughed at him. But, Steele didn't care, for he was going home.

The Door-of-No-Return was on the opposite end of the hallway. Dogs go into this door and never came back. For two and half years, Steele looked at that door. As the weeks went by, he began to long for that door. If only he could run into it and run away.

There he was. His nose was touching the Door-of-No-Return and it felt warmer for some reason but not in a physical sense. It was a warmth of optimism and promise. He heard those heavenly sounding keys start to unlock. Just before the man opened the Door-of-No-Return, a bellowing voiced boomed through the hallway,

“I want that dog, Mr. Cooper! Bring him too me.” Mr. Cooper turned around and saw a middle-aged fellow in a suit, smoking a long cigar. He he puffed a few rings and continued,

“I've heard of this dog, Steele. He was a big name.” Mr. Cooper shook his head and responded,

“You don't want him. He's an embarrassment and bad luck.” Mr. Cooper looked down at Steele. Steele didn't even to bother to look up at him. The suited man shrugged his shoulders,

“He messed up a delivery in bad weather. So what? I'm not interested in freighting. I'm interested in racing! This dog right here is the dog to have. You can't argue with a Golden Collar and three consecutive winning seasons, sir. Just before the “incident”, it looked like he was going to another. I want him.” Mr. Cooper walked away taking Steele away from his precious door. He whined in frustration and sorrow. He soon was with Mr. Cooper at a counter with the cigar chomping man across from him. The man signed the papers and gave him to Mr. Cooper.

“Okay, he's yours. By the way sir... mind I ask what you do?” The man blew smoke in Mr. Cooper's face. He coughed and his eyes watered. The man grinned with his tobacco stained teeth,

“Fredrick Harris. President of the American Competitive Dog Sledding Team.” Right then, he strode away with Steele by his side. Steele walked towards the alien sunlight that he had forgotten. He squinted at the intense light. Soon he found himself outdoors with snow underneath his feat and the cold dry air running through his nose. Each breath, he felt his spirit returning to him. He rolled his powerful shoulders, cricked his neck, and ambled forward with a new sense of purpose. He was Steele of Nome.

Chapter 2: Conscription

Balto recently found a home by the airfield. He now rarely goes to the boat by the outskirts. He had no master but if he had a master, it would be Duke the bush pilot. Duke doesn't watch Balto's every move and every meal like most domesticated dogs. Balto was still wild but was comfortable in Duke's company. Whenever Duke felt like a mailrun, Balto would come along and be gone for days. He really appreciates flying. Nobody knows for sure anymore if Balto is a sled dog or a canine aviator.

“Then when you pull on the stick enough you make a half-loop then roll upright. After that, you're heading the opposite direction! That's a split-s, it one of my fav-” Balto was cut short.

“Oh spare us” yawned Kirby, “You've been going on about flying for an hour.” Kirby curled up and went to sleep. Balto, was perplexed on the boredom of the group. Everyone in the boiler room was asleep or half asleep. Only Kodi was awake, or at least pretended to be awake because Balto taught him sternly about listening. Jenna woke up and went to Balto,

“I'm sorry, Balto, but we can't identify with you and flying. I know you love it but *yawn* we're all sled dogs. We know sleds.” Balto grunted,

“What about you? You never were a work dog yourself. How do you identify?” Jenna rolled her eyes and let it out with a slight laugh,

“I know a whole lot more sled dogs than flying dogs.” said Jenna. Balto sighed, and walked off. Jenna called for him.

“Balto where are you going?”

“Back to my old place. I feel I should stop being a flying dog. I know I'm a sled dog.” Jenna protested,

“You don't have to give up things you like. All I said was-”

“Look, you're right. I love flying but these guys can't share my experience, so I'm all alone. It's best if I don't fly at all.” Balto started to walk away, but Jenna yelped,

“Duke's leaving soon. Where are you going?” Balto turned around and plainly said,

“Not the first time I missed a flight. Duke goes when he goes. He's not my master and he knows that. I'm just going to hang out by my boat.” Balto continued on to the outskirts of town where his boat was. Off in the distance you could hear Boris singing his Russian folk songs. He couldn't sing, but the spirit of the singing made up for it. To be honest, they were kind of catchy.

Boris saw Balto walk onto the boat in a melancholy fashion. Boris kept on singing up in Balto's face to bring a smile. Balto gave a quick broad smile and went to sleep. Boris piped up with that Russian accent of his,

“What's the matter with you? Butcher didn't throw out any lamb scraps today?” Balto opened his eyes and said as a matter of fact,

“Boris, I'm quitting flying.” Boris was sent backwards in shock. He pulled himself together and questioned Balto,

“But Balto, you're obsessed with flying. You love everything about it. Why?” Balto looked at Boris and shrugged,

“Well, I do like flying but it separates me from my friends. I talk about it but they don't care. The more and more I fly the more separated I am. I'm close to Duke, but I can't exactly talk to him, being a human.”

“So what are you going to do now?” Balto thought about this. Closed his eyes and said,

“I think I'll start being an old dog who watches the world go by. I saved a town, I raised some pups, and I saved Duke. I did my verse in life.” Boris crossed his wings and gave Balto a lazy eye of disappointment.

“You did a part but you're not done yet. You're still a young dog with some life.”

“Boris, I'm approaching middle age. I'm done with adventure and excitement. I need to slow down.”

Boris stamped away in frustration. Just before he turned the corner to go into the bridge of the ship, he said into the wind, softly enough so that Balto's ears could hear.

“In old country, I've seen dogs work until their last breath. Maybe you should live till yourlast breath.”

These words stayed with Balto. He thought about them hard. Was he calling quits too early? Maybe he should go on one more adventure. His clock is ticking and he should cram in all he's got. He closed his eyes and went to sleep, listening to the melodic arctic wind.

Suddenly his ears twitched. He heard the slamming of a door of a truck and smelled the scent of humans, at least five. He heard them muttering in excitement. Balto wondered what this commotion was all about. He peaked of the edge of the boat and saw the truck with the tracks leading to Nome. As Balto was looking he heard the floor boards creak behind him. He quickly jumped his body 180 degrees and saw 4 men with snares in hand. Balto put himself into a defensive and growled. He did all he could to growl viciously and tried to force himself not to lunge at them, for doing so might be the last thing he'll do. Balto stood his ground as those towering humans held those snares.

One human on the side got the courage to snare the wolfdog. Balto desperately struggled but then the other snares came upon his neck. It was no use, they got him. They pulled him down some steps and towards the back of the truck. A familiar voice piped up in that Russian accent.

“Balto what is this!?”

“I don't know! Do something get me out!”

Boris saw the side of the truck and what it read. Boris shook his head at Balto.

“No can do Fido. I want you to live your life. These men are giving you an opportunity to do so.”

“What are you talking about?!”

“My English reading is a bit fuzzy but that truck says American Competitive Dog Sledding Team. You're going to relive the good old days again Balto.”

“But I don't want it start like this!”

“Goodbye Balto! I'll tell Jenna exactly where you went.”

Suddenly a thought just popped into Balto's head! Jenna of course! He was wondering if she was expecting again. He can't go now. What if Jenna was expecting? Those pups need raising! But it didn't matter. Balto was stuck into the back of the truck with 3 other dogs. He saw Nome shrinking in the distance getting smaller and smaller.

Chapter 3: Zak, Crimson, Tacoma

Balto turned away from the wire mesh window and saw the three other dogs in the back, all three were Siberian Huskies. One was all white, another a combination of black and white, and another with an auburn coat like Jenna's. All of them were built and large but young, no later than 3 years. Despite looking so macho they looked at Balto with admiration.

“So you're him. The dog that saved Nome.” awed the white husky. His bicolored eyes were wide in amazement.

“You're going to get lead dog so easy!” declared the auburn.

“You'll make the tryouts no sweat!” praised the black and white. Balto quickly snapped,

“Waitwaitwait... what's going on and who are you guys?” The white one spoke up,

“Oh sorry. My name is Zak, the red guy over here is Crimson for obvious reasons, and this guy in the black and white is Tacoma. All of us in this van have been hand selected to try out for the American sledding team. We will race against other dogs from all over the world! All three of us have been on the famous Golden Team at some point.” Balto gave a puzzled stare,

“The Golden Team?”

“It was the team with the most famous sledding dog in all of Alaska.” proudly said Zack

“You don't mean...”

“That's right! Steele!” exclaimed Crimson

“I'm sorry I shouldn't talk to you fellas.” said Balto, turning his back on them.

“Why not?” asked Tacoma

“Well... I'm the reason Steele... disappeared for awhile.” All the dogs gasped in surprise. They couldn't imagine that Balto was the reason for Steele's disappearance. Balto continued,

“Steele wasn't on good terms with me. He hated me for being half-wolf. When he got lost in the blizzard with the medicine, I went out looking him and the serum. Steele didn't want a wolfdog to be the hero. He abandoned his team and sabotaged the trail. By luck, I managed to find my way back home. Steele already made it home before us and told everyone there that the team that I was dead. Everyone found out Steele was lying when I showed up with the medicine and he was exiled. His master found him and took him away. That's the last I ever saw of him.” The other dogs were in shock. They looked up to Steele since they were pups. They had dreams that Steele would teach them everything he knew and train them to be the fastest and strongest dogs in the world. But now, Steele sounded like a glory hound who put the who town's children in jeopardy just for his reputation. It was silent for the rest of the trip.

Chapter 4: The Dream Team

The engine came to a quiet idle, and the vehicle ceased to move. The dogs woke up and waited for that door to open. The door opened up and the men yanked on the chains on the dogs' necks. They followed them into a building what looked to be a kennel. Inside there were many sled dogs of all breeds and sizes. Balto looked left and right and saw the eyes of awe come down on him. Balto knew he was a hero in Nome but he never knew he was a hero across the country. Balto was led into a cell of chain link fencing. There he heard a familiar voice that chilled him,

“It's a good thing that there's a fence between the two of us. I want to tear you apart.” Balto looked slowly to his right where that voice came from. There he saw that intimidating Alaskan Malamute stature. He also saw those two burning blue eyes shining right at him like beacons. Balto could sense hate from this dog and he knew exactly what dog it was and Balto couldn't believe it.

“But how? I thought you were long gone.”

“Wrong!” Steele growled, “I was locked up for two whole years. I was about to be put to sleep but I was put into this. I'm glad you're here Balto. Sometime at this camp when nobody is looking, my teeth will be around your neck. I will squeeze and will delightfully listen to your last gasps before I rip your neck out. I suggest you make some friends fast Balto.” Balto did not sleep that night.

In the morning the dogs were led out to the courtyard. It was late spring and there was little snow. The courtyard was filled with obstacles and other training equipment, with the purpose of finding the best of the best.

The humans grouped up the dogs and put them at the stations. Some were pulling heavy loads and others were doing simple sprints. Each time Balto did something, Steele tried to match it. The humans did every sort of test of speed, strength, and intelligence; they had to down to a science. Everyday the dogs were exhausted. The dogs that refused to work were washouts and sent home. Balto thought of quitting several times. He was brought to this forsaken place against his will, why should he stay? He can just lye down and he'll be back at his old boat. No! He must stay for his honor. He didn't want Steele to have dirt on him for being a quitter and he was doing this to be on the American team, to live an adventure one last time. Balto heard each human critique each dog,

“Crimson... well proportioned, decent all around... not to bright though. But I never see him fatigue. He stays”

“Chrysler... he might be bright but he gets tired way too easily. Have to let him go.” Then they came to Steele,

“Steele... He's not too fast but has a good resume as far as long distance racing. He's the strongest Malamute I've ever seen. Excellent work ethic with a go-get-em attitude; I like that. Has some intelligence. He stays.” Now it was Balto's turn,

“Balto... A wolf hybrid. Mushers in Alaska are finding that's a treat. He's a good example why. Balto is lightning quick and really smart. He lead a serum run with an unconscious musher in a storm, this shows he's exceptionally smart. He's not that strong but isn't weak either. He stays.” Every week was like this. The Humans handpicked the dogs to form a team. Within 6 weeks, the humans found a 12 dog team. There was anxiety to see what the line up will be. The humans had all 12 dogs in a line. A crowd of people were watching the ceremony. The President of the American Competitive Dog Sledding Team was there to announce the team, first the lead dog. Steele and Balto were next to each other, bickering,

“Balto, lead dog is mine! I've got more credentials than you!

“Please, your reputation is scarred from failing that serum run and I had to fix!”

“You're just a one hit wonder.”

“You lost your shine.”

“I'm still stronger.”

“I'm still faster.”

“I'm bigger.”

“I got the girl.”

“Dang!” The President is about to announce the lead dog. Snare drums started to rolled. Balto and Steele puffed up their chest in anticipation to be congratulated. The President opened the envolope.

“And the lead dog, of the American Competitive Dog Sledding Team, showed great athleticism, talent, determination, and intelligence. The assistants can tell that this dog will lead the team in any condition and will pull them through triumphantly. Now ladies and gentleman. The lead dog of the1928 American Competitive Dog Sledding Team, is... MAGNUM!” Balto and Steele's eyes popped wide open and jaws dangling. Who the heck is Magnum? There they saw, a towering Mackenzie River Husky, with flowing hair and huge victorious grin. This dog looked strong and and was even slightly bigger than Steele. Steele started to glare with rage,

“Magnum... I should've known.” Muttered Steele. Balto glanced over to Steele,

“You know him?”

“Balto, I must confess, I was born and raised in New England. I'm no Alaskan native. But there are trainers down in New England who train the best sledding dogs. Magnum and I were in the same class. We knew each other since we were pups. Magnum was always one step ahead of me, and I always came in second. Last I saw of him was when I was bought by my master and sent to Nome.” The Mackenzie just soaked in the the publicity, with the photographers and poses with the President. Balto personally loved this moment, as he watched Steele gaze with envy.

“Just a taste of your own medicine.” Balto thought.

The new team went into town. The dogs just realized they were in Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska! A bigger city meant lots of things, like more food, more people to meet, more dogs to meet, and most importantly, more girls.

The musher found a motel and locked the team up in a shed where the dogs could sleep. This didn't bother them at all because, little did the musher know, that there was an entrance in and out. This is where the crew escaped to checkout the city. But they still made it back, before the musher woke up to check on them.

Out the dogs, all twelve, into the street. There was Magnum, Balto, Steele, Zak, Crimson, Tacoma, CJ, Paladin, Bandit, Magellan, Drake, and Ricky. CJ was a fully black Siberian with white legs. He was a quiet dog, but full of energy. Other dogs keep a distance because he has a flea problem. Paladin is another all white Siberian like Zak. He has a sense of chivalry and is always proper and acting noble. Bandit is a Alaskan Husky and a sporadic scamp; his behavior is just about as random as his fur and gets way too excited. Magellan is a powerful Malamute with fur much like Steele's but with a grayer coating. Magellan, unlike Steele, is a humble dog and willing to talk to anybody about their problems. Drake was born in the same litter as Magellan but is more like Bandit in personality. Ricky is Siberian-Malamute mix and has a pushy attitude. Mushers always put Ricky in the back since he will quarrel with the lead dog.

All the dogs were following Crimson because he's a native of the Anchorage area. He knew every ally, sewer, and meeting places. He knew what dogs to look out for and what humans were friendly or not. They were walking in an alley and Crimson asked,

“Okay team, what do we want to do? If we head up the road that way, we'll end up in a place where all you fine gents can find a lady. If we go down the road this way, we'll end up near the dumpster of a steakhouse.” All the dogs were drooling with delight.

“Gosh, I can't decide!” piped up Zak.

“It would be delightful, if I may have some steak to calm this appetite I possess.” said Paladin.

“Forget the steak! I'm in the mood for some luvin!” cried Drake.

“I want a girl and steak at the same time! Can we do that?” shouted Bandit. All the dogs were in an uproar of an argument. Suddenly Magnum stepped up on a trashcan and everyone hushed,

“Look you nasties! Lets look a this logically. Are we fed everyday?” Everyone in unison said,

“Yes”

“Is the food good?”

“Yeah.”

“Are we going to get more of it in the future on the trail?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Are there going to be any girls out there?” Suddenly the thought dawned on the team. There was a hush of shock because it was so obvious. Then Zak broke the silence,

“Lets get some girls tonight!” Then the team sprinted down the street to a location underneath a porch of a general store. Underneath they found a whole den of female mutts. The entire variety of breeds was there. The team flirted and they flirted back. Everyone there was having a great time except two, Balto and Steele. They were just in a corner relaxing. It was Steele that broke the silence between them.

“Ugh... disgusting. These girls are completely stray. Flea ridden and among other things. I wouldn't touch one of them, even with a stick.” At that moment, a Collie-Shepherd mix glided right onto Steele,

“What's happening handsome? Lonesome?”

“Yes. I prefer it to be that way.” Steele growled. The Collie-Shepherd ran away after the threat. Balto took note.

“Jeeze Steele, I thought you were always on the prowl for a lady or at least a flirt.” Steele shook his head,

“I just gave up on girls, Balto. They're a distraction to me. It was me being distracted by Jenna that caused me to run and lie.” Steele put his head down in shame, “ I can never forgive myself for that. It ended my life figuratively and almost did literally. I hope this race will be second chance for me to get my life back. I have to win this race!” Balto nodded his head in agreement.

“I know what you mean. But hey, if you feel bad about that, then we're even.” Steele's face went fixed in self-realization. Make terms with a wolfdog? Never! That is unacceptable.

“Look Bingo, you're a wolfdog. I'm a dog. There is no kiss and make up. Whatever I tried to do had to be done. Hear?” Steele then walked off, leaving Balto perplexed in the corner. But then Magnum came over an stopped Steele, he had two girls on each side nuzzling him and licking him.

“Hey bro! Long time no see!” Greeted Magnum. Steele gave a broad smile,

“Uh yeah... sure.”

“Hey, I heard about you in Alaska for the Nome team. Three time Golden Collar. That's whats up with Vermont! You did good kid.”

“Kid?! Uh... yup. Thanks. I work hard, train hard, and take care of my team members.”

“Like a true sled dog. Hey listen, I know you're strong and all that, but keep your body lower to the ground when pulling; you'll get more power that way.”

“Thanks for the tip.” Steele grumbled.

“Hey! Who's that sport over there in the corner? Is that... no... thats Balto I kept hearing about! Hero of Nome! Where were you when that happened? I thought you lived in that area.” Steele froze had to think of a story,

“Erm... I got sick on the day we headed out.”

“Steele... got to take care of yourself. Are you going to get sick on race day?”

“No! Course not!” snapped Steele,

“Good. Let me talk to your friend over here.” Magnum strolled right up to Balto. Balto was still lying on the ground and looking up at Magnum way like looking up at a building,

“So you're Balto, the dog who saved Nome!”

“Wolfdog!” Steele cut in. Magnum shrugged him off,

“So what going through your head when you were racing through whiteout conditions with the clock running out? Brrrr! Just thinking of it makes me shiver with excitement! How many other teams have you pulled?”

“Uh... None?”

“I see. Loyal to your teammate. I respect that kid. What about races! How many did you win?”

“Gee... I don't know what to tell you Magnum... but... none.” Magnum was confused and dazed. He was staring at Balto. Then he laughed,

“Oh come on! You have to be kidding right? I bet you at least a dozen. You're the quickest out there!” Balto looked away not saying a word. Magnum got all serious,

“You were never on a team? Never won a race? Yet you guided a sled team home in whiteout conditions? How can a dog with so little experience be on a team that was counted on so much?” Balto looked up at Magnum and said this,

“Look. I'm a stray dog of the streets of Nome. I heard the team was lost so I went out to look for them.” Balto looked beyond Magnum, at Steele. Steele put a finger across his throat threating Balto not to mention him at all. Balto continued, “So ya... I found them and I led the way home.”

Magnum smiled in satisfaction of the story. He nodded in appreciation,

“I like those underdog stories; very inspiring. Too bad you're kinda old, otherwise I would coach you.” That just pierced Balto's ears like a pin. Old? Balto spoke up,

“Hey, look. You sound like a big shot, but how come I've never heard of you?” Magnum stood up straight and prepared himself for his life story,

“I'm Magnum of Groton, Vermont. My father was a champion dog and so was my mother. I was trained by some of the best dog sled trainers ever. I've won race after race. I even won an award for 'Best looking race dog'. What you're looking at is the most sophisticated work of pedigree. When it comes to racing, I am the ultimate sled dog, scientifically and statistically.” Balto raised an eyebrow,

“Gee. You're something.” Balto said with a sarcastic tone.

“Better believe it pal!” Magnum walked away to give his girls some attention. Steele was sitting by the exit way, watching the street. Balto looked at Steele long enough and saw that he was a hurt dog who was desperately was trying to be the best. But that hate for wolfdogs, is still a mystery to Balto.

Chapter 5: Siberia

The team later was shipped into crates and loaded onto a ship. The ship took them to the port of Okhotsk. The race was to be held in Siberia, the forsaken tundra of the Soviet Union. The race was to be held all the way down the Kamchatka Peninsula, 780 miles. The team was delivered there by truck. All the dogs were weary from travel. Finally, the were at the starting city of Talovka. The sled was packed with gear and it was autumn with fresh snow on the ground. The team trained since spring for this moment. They were all harnessed down. Balto was looking around and next to him was the Soviet sled team. The entire team was naturally made up of Siberian Huskies, but these were the original Siberians with pedigrees going back hundreds of years. In front, Balto saw the lead dog, a tan and cream colored dog with a long, sturdy snout. He seemed to be old as Balto and he was compact like Balto, but muscular as Steele. His eyes seemed to broadcast a friendliness. Something about this dog seemed familiar, but Balto couldn't point it out. The Russian dog took note that Balto was observing him. He called out in a thick accent that wasn't Russian but something else,

“Hey American dog! How are you this fine morning?” Balto was dumbstruck that he actually talked to him,

“Uh... fine thank you. The name's Balto. Yours?”

“It's Kurgan, at least that's my Russian name, my original name is unpronounceable. You might be wondering why my accent is different. I'm not exactly Russian but more specifically Koryak. They are the native people of this land we are racing in. So you could say, my team has the advantage.” Balto laughed. He enjoyed talking to a dog so exotic as Kurgan.

“I don't know about that, Kurgan. I know these dogs on my team and they are ready for anything.” This made Kurgan laugh hard, really hard.

“That's everyone's opinion my friend. You think we come to this as rookies? I assure you that the Soviet team will prevail because we have the best work ethic and it's our native land. We have to win.” Balto agreed with this. He's recalls Boris saying he's seen Russian dogs worked to death. Balto was probably pampered by the trainers compared to the training the Soviet team went through. They are hardened, fearless, and strong. Balto talked to Kurgan again,

“Kurgan, I don't mean to sound strange or anything but for some reason, you seem familiar to me.” Kurgan narrowed his eyes on Balto and concentrated on him,

“Yes, something is familiar. It's the find of familiar that you see in a dream than reality. When I rest, I will meditate on this.” Kurgan then popped out a question.

“American dog... are you halfwolf by any chance. You look like it.”

“Uh... yeah. I am. Why?”

“HA! That's your team's advantage. You add instinct to your team. Out there, no dog can make it alone-” Balto cut in but in a surprised tone,

“-but a wolf can.”

“Exactly! Where did you hear that before?”
“I was about to ask you the same.”

Right then the gun was shot and the race began.

Chapter 6: Competition

The sleds broke the snow and the dogs started to move. The sleds became faster and faster. Magnum was intent on not letting Kurgan in front. He barked and yelped for the rest of the dogs to move faster. Balto looked to his left and saw Steele with that powerful stride, he was in his own world. Balto was running as fast as Magnum was going. Magnum was a Mackenzie so his legs were much longer, thus a long and faster stride. Balto's comparatively smaller legs had to move faster to keep up with those Mackenzie strides.

It was all so exciting. The noise of dogs, the contact of feet on snow covered ground, and the fierce competition with national pride at stake. The favorites in this race were the United States, the Soviet Union, Canada, Japan, Norway, and Switzerland, but the real competition was between the United States and the Soviet Union. The Americans were determined to beat the Russians on their own territory to make a statement. Each member had a different thought driving them.

Magnum always thought, “I'm the best. I'll stay the best!”

Balto kept thinking, “Sooner I get this done, the sooner I'll get back to Jenna.”

Steele kept saying to himself, “Win and I get my life back!

All the other team members had their own, none of them were more motivated than Magnum, Balto, and Steele. However on the Russian team, there was no motivation, just simply discipline. Kurgan and the others were disciplined into one powerful unit with the work ethic of a machine. All what the Russians saw was a task that needed to be completed. They didn't see awards, treats, or congratulation at the end, they saw, mission accomplished.

So far the Americans and Russians were neck to neck all day. As soon as the judges' clocks hit 9 pm, they fired flares to signal to stop. The red flare scene in the night sky for miles and the dogs on all the teams stopped. The Americans and Russians were next to each other as far as camping. The other teams were a mile or more behind. All the dogs made nests in the snow to keep warm. Balto was resting nice and snug but then a whisper woke him up,

“Hey Balto, get up!” It was Steele. Balto, groggy, mumbled,

“Yeah? What d'ya want?”

“Wolves! They're howling and driving me crazy. Tell them to shut it.”

Balto chuckled, “Steele you goof. You can't shut up wolves.”

“At least tell me what they're saying.”

“Fine.”

Balto got up and he and Steele went on top of hill nearby the camp. The moonlight revealed a rugged volcanic landscape with scattered trees. The Kamchatka Peninsula is a lot more different than Alaska. Balto listened to the howls and told Steele what he listened as time passed,

“Can't say much Steele. It's mostly singing in a way. It's like one big spread out chorus.”

“Well what are you doing. Pitch in!” Steele halfway teased. Balto went shy,

“I don't know Steele...”

“Come on! I know you can lobo.” nudged Steele. Balto took a breath, lifted his head and gave a strong howl that echoed on that hill top. It sent a chill down Steele's spine. For some reason, Steele felt a complex appreciation for it.

“That was fancy stuff Balto.”

“Hey no problem. Runs in one side of my family.”

“I must second that was also good.” That voice was none of their's. Balto and Steele froze in place. They slowly turned around and saw a wolf right there, a graceful female with a beautiful silver coat that reflected the moon light. Her voice had a seductive tone to it, it ringed in any male's ear.

“So what are you two dogs doing out here?” the female wolf asked. Balto and Steele were sort of stunned. They didn't know how to talk to a wolf that seemed so beautiful.

“Uh... we're on a race and... we're taking a break right now.” answered Balto. The female wolf approached them slowly. Steele was quaking in his paws and Balto noticed this and the female took note as well.

“Your friend here is rather nervous. what's with him?”

“I'll let him answer that.” said Balto.

Steele swallowed and kept still. He blurted out,

“I never really met a wolf this close before... at least, never a full one.”

The female laughed. Steele became more comfortable around her as it seemed she had a sense of humor.

“Don't worry. I won't bite you and a pack won't ambush you. I'm a lone wolf. My name's Silver Cloud. To be honest, I've been watching your sled team earlier today. I plan to keep watching. One of your boys caught my eye.” At this moment she glanced at Steele. “I'll see you around.” Then she darted off into the dark. Balto looked at Steele and smiled and imitated Silver Cloud,

“One of your boys caught my eye. Steele, I think she meant you.” Steele's ears went back. He seemed uncomfortable with it. Balto continued,

“Lemme guess... you like her too.”

Steele sighed, “Night Balto, lets get some sleep.”

Chapter 7: Blood

The next morning, the team woke up, packed up, and headed out. The judges fired a flare to signal to start moving. The flare burned a bright green in the early morning sun. The dogs barked in excitement when they finally started. Once again, the American and Soviet team were neck to neck. Magnum looked over to the Russian leader, Kurgan,

“Working hard eh sport?” Magnum mocked. Kurgan smugly smiled at him and shouted,

“Ia tebya imeyu!” Snorted Kurgan. All of the Russian dogs laughed. Magnum knew he was insulted, he just didn't know how. This irritated him. It irritated him even more when Kurgan's team started to pull ahead.

“Oh no you don't Ruskie!” Magnum lengthened his stride much to his team's distress, but they wanted to win just as badly. The dogs could hear their mushers yell and curse to move faster. A steep hill appeared on the trail. The Russian team got their first and started to climb. The American team arrived second and pumped their legs. The American dogs clearly had the muscle as they started to pull ahead uphill. The Russian dogs maybe fast, but the Americans were stronger, giving them the advantage on hills. However, as soon as the ground leveled, the Russians were in the lead again. It went on like this for 2 days. The teams began a strong rivalry but a friendly comradery as well. On the 3^rd night, Balto met up with Kurgan. Kurgan looked eerily familiar to Balto. Kurgan turned to him and spoke,

“Balto, I have prayed on the issue and the answer came to me in a dream.”

“I'm listening.”

“We are more connected than you may think.” This put Balto back,

“What are you saying.”

“We are brothers Balto. Brothers in blood.”

“We share the same father?!” Balto blurted out. He was walking in circles, it seemed so unreal that by chance of fate, he met a half-brother and he was Russian. Kurgan took a breath,

“I can tell you the story of our parents.”

“Sure you might as well” urged Balto. Kurgan began.

It was a dark winter in a Koryak village. An American missionary came to visit the village and also give supplies for the winter. It was fiercely cold and the Koryaks needed coats. One of the elders bred dogs and noticed the missionary's lead dog, a strong, dark coated Siberian husky. This Balto, was our father, his name was Paul. The elders of the camp and the missionary agreed to lead him to my mother. Luckily, my mother liked him and they had pups. I was in this litter. I knew this part of the story. My mother used to talk about our father as if he were an angel. I sometimes saw him when he was delivering supplies. I can tell you that he had a kind heart and always went out of his way to help someone. But for your side of the story, I had to receive in a dream. As you may know, your mother was a wolf, a beautiful white one. Our father was on a freight mission in Alaska. The sled team was attacked by a bear. The musher was killed and all of the dogs were killed. But our father managed to crawl away wounded. Stranded in a forest, dying, your mother came along and helped him. She nursed him back to health. Your father had pups with her and that's where you come in Balto. But you don't remember much of our father. He was unsatisfied on how he was still a dog, when he mated with your mother, he was convinced he was a wolf at heart. He left to find a way to become one. My mother sent a friend to look for our father because he didn't show up at the village for a delivery. That friend Balto, was Boris the goose. He flew all over Alaska and found our father wandering the tundra. Boris told him he'll freeze, but our father said that a dog can't make it alone but a wolf can. Boris reported back to my mother, and said what our father said. That's how I know of the saying. Boris also said he mated with a wolf. My mother sent Boris away to look for you to take care of you and your siblings since you were fatherless. I don't know the fate of our father yet, Balto, but someday it would be revealed.

Balto was sitting there with his jaw loose and eyes wide. He couldn't believe it all. Kurgan is his half-brother, Boris is the connection between these two worlds. He still wondered, what happened to their father, Paul? Paul sounded like a great dog even though it sounded like he was delusional at the end. Balto asked,

“Kurgan, how did I end up alone? How did I get separated from my mother or siblings if I had any?”

“Balto, you do indeed have siblings but I do not know where they are. I do not know how you became separated from your mother either. Perhaps time will reveal that.”

Meanwhile, Magnum was awakened by a whispering voice from the woods. He crawled out of his snow nest and wandered towards the voice. He could hear it, but not see the source of it. It sounded almost feminine, smooth and attractive.

“Magnum... you are the American lead dog are you not?”

“Uh yes?”

“I know how you can get ahead of those Russian dogs.”

“Oh really?”

“There is a short cut, take it. Don't go around the valley, that will lead you on a long path. Descend into the valley, there you will find a path to get to the main path, it will save a lot of time.”

“Thanks. I'll keep that in mind. Hey what's your name?” There was silence. Nothing but the cold Siberian wind answered.

Chapter 8: Decent into the Valley

The American team was motivated to get to the short cut. They wanted to be there first and not be seen when they take it that way they Russians won't follow. All the dogs were in a full out sprint and left the Russians way behind who were pacing themselves. Kurgan told his team,

“Don't worry! At that pace they will exhaust themselves and we will pass them.”

The American team saw a path off the bridge that seemed to descend into the valley. The temperature seemed to warm up a little as the team descended, which was odd. The air seemed to have a damp feeling. The team kept a moderate pace but also cautious. Paladin commented,

“I say, the atmosphere is here is rather...eerie.”

“Just your mind playing tricks. Keep going!” barked Magnum. The vegetation started to fade, and soon they were in a narrow path of rocks, ice, and snow. The warm damp air was unnatural, it made all the dogs a little nervous. The silence was also unnatural. Not even the dogs could hear a critter scamper across the rocks. The moon was there in the sky as a white light. It was night and the judges fired off their flares. The sled stopped and the musher had took out his gear to set up camp. He let loose all the dogs and let them form their snow nests.

“Crimson, this doesn't feel right. It's autumn in Siberia and it's warm and damp. What's even weirder is the snow is not melting. It doesn't add up.” Balto mentioned.

“I'm sure there's some reason. I wouldn't think about it too hard.” shrugged Crimson. Balto wasn't satisfied. He knew there was a reason, but would he like that reason? Balto went over to Magnum.

“Hey Magnum, why did you go off the path down here? Some kind of short cut.”

“Who told you about this short cut?”

“Well I heard a voice in the woods tell me about it.”

Balto twitched in the shock of stupidity he just heard.

“Why did you listen to a voice you couldn't identify?!”

“I knew it wasn't Russian. She seemed to sound legit.”

She? Balto had a suspicion. It must be Silver Cloud. The only female dog in this race was on the Norwegian team but they are way behind. It had to be that wolf. Balto started asking questions to himself, why would she lead them down to such a creepy place. Balto looked around and an ambush would be easy. Such a thought made him uneasy. Who's side was this wolf on?

Steele was sleeping in his nest and he heard a disturbance. He got out and looked around in the black night. The dead landscape stared at him and it talked with a subtle zephyr. In the corner of his eye he saw something rise over a ridge line. He didn't know what it was, after all, peripheral vision only picks up movement. That's all was Steele saw was movement and it disappeared. Behind him, his mushed approached him,

“Hey boy, what are doing up so late?” Then the musher caught the movement in the corner of his eye.

“Hey what's that?” Humans are curious creatures, sometimes a little brave with their curiosity, especially if they have a pistol. The man took out his pistol and approached the ridge. He got on top and Steele could see his silhouette. You could see him looking around on the ground. Then he raised his pistol and started screaming and firing. Right then, a spear of black matter shot out and impaled the musher with brutal ferocity. The spear threw the musher away. Steele barked madly,

“Everybody wake up! Now! NOW! Our musher just got killed!” The dogs popped out of their nest and smelled blood in the air and something else. It had an unearthly stench that couldn't be described in any language. The dogs whimpered and formed a circle. Balto growled,

“I knew this was a bad place. God knows if we'll make it out of here!” Just then Magnum took off. He was whimpered high tailing it.

“Forget you fellas! I'm leaving!”

“Don't go Magnum! You'll die alone!” barked Drake,

“I'll die if I stay here!” Just as Magnum said that. A two unearthly four legged creatures with dull glowing eyes, with a color that the dogs never thought existed, flanked Magnum. Magnum got up to strike one of them. They quickly knocked him down and started to maul him with their teeth. They heard the screams of refusal coming from the unfortunate Mackenzie. The black masses noticed the group of dogs watching. They gave a deep groan that echoed. The dogs were overcome by the smell and started to see figures pop up around them. Some animal, some humanoid, some with no form at all. Balto talked to his new troops since Magnum was killed.

“This is it. A fight to the death. You saw what they did to Magnum. That's what happens when you do this alone. We are now a pack. Packs are one unit; fight like it. Now we're going to run in pairs and try to get out of this valley. If you have to kill, do it in pairs. NOW GO!”

The pack of dogs ran down the valley abandoning their sled. CJ and Paladin were running. Then a black boar confronted them. Paladin stared it down while CJ jump around and flanked its neck. The boar roard in pain and shook off CJ. CJ grunted as he was slammed to the ground, then the last thing he saw saw were those tusks mulling his helpless body. Paladin retreated but then was picked up by a swarm of spiders that smothered him. He died peacefully as the countless bites became numb. Balto witnessed that CJ and Paladin were killed. There is almost no match here; a fight means death.

The sky then showed enormous bats. The bats swooped in. Most ducked, but Drake got picked up and taken to worlds unknown. Another tried Steele. Steele jumped for the neck and the bat went down with him and they tumbled in a violent fight. The bat ceased to move, Steele shook himself off and kept running.

Nobody knew what they were up against. All they knew was to keep running, but they were dropping like flies. Ricky confronted a skeletal creature with razors for arms. The swung and him but he dodged the fatal blows. Ricky then jumped off the wall and took the skull in his jaws. He removed the head but the body still chased him, Ricky then decided fighting wasn't a good idea.

The pack of dogs then came to a cave. Out of the cave, more of these things came out. From behind where was more. There wasn't anything out of this. But dawn broke! The creatures faded away and ceased to exist. The sun was their deus ex machina.

The dogs broke down in exhaustion and sorrow. Their master, Magnum, CJ, Paladin, and Drake were gone forever. So many feelings of discouragement flowed through. They're lost, tired, and being hunted by unknown creatures. There was not a single reason to not be afraid.

Chapter 9: Dawn in the Valley

The pack of 8 dogs wandered the foothills of the valley. They looked for water and food. The water was the snow and food was nowhere to be found. Many of them thought that they will die in the valley. But another thought haunted them. They knew at dusk, those things would come back to kill them all. Balto excused himself from the group.

“Excuse me, but I need to think.”

Balto wandered into a field of large boulders and rested next to one. What is he going to do? How is he going to get these dogs out to safety? They need food and water. They need to survive against these killers and fighting them would be folly. There seemed to be no way out. Just then, a familiar face peered around the corner, Silver Cloud.

Balto growled in rage and tackled her. He drooled for revenge, because five lives were lost and she was suspect.

“Why did you lead us into this God forsaken valley?! We're all going to die in the next two days or even perhaps tonight because Magnum listened to you!”

“What?!”

“Don't play innocent. You condemned us, so I'll return the favor before I go!”

Silver kicked off Balto and gave him a swipe with her paw, knocking Balto down. Balto grabbed her shoulder and wrestled her down.

“I'll make sure you'll pay for the 5 lives that were lost tonight!”

“Balto! Just let me explain!”

“Explain what? Explain why I saw Magnum mauled to pieces? Explain why Paladin was eaten by spiders? Explain every damn thing!” Balto kept his hold on Silver. Silver started to tell,

“I know the things that are killing you. They killed my pack too.”

Balto let go and stepped away in shock.

“So what are they?”

“The Kalak; evil spirits that'll take any form to cause death, decay, and destruction. My pack wandered into that valley and they were slaughtered.”

“How did you survive?” asked Balto. Silver turned her head away and resisted to say it.

“They made me their servant. That's why I told you to down there. They take my body and I say anything they want me too. I'm cursed Balto! I had to watch your friends die too. I've seen many others die before you because they want things to feed on. I'm sorry.” Balto nuzzled Silver to comfort her.

“Is there anything we can do to save ourselves maybe even help you?” Balto asked anxiously. Silver shook her head.

“There is one thing but it's near impossible.”

“Challenge the Kalak lord, one-on-one, in a fight to the death. If you lose, you will be assimilated into the Kalaks. You'll lose all goodness in your heart and will lose your free will. The flesh will be numb and will feel like death for eternity. My father did this, and he was one of the creatures that killed Magnum. But the lord does the fight by becoming an exact copy of his opponent except improved. If you win, you and your friends would gain immunity from the Kalaks, and perhaps even free me.” Then a voice just said,

“I'll do it.” Silver and Balto saw Steele to the side, he was listening the whole time.

“I'm not afraid. Somebody needs to face this devil. I'll fight him. Even if I lose, everyone's last memory of Steele is that he died with honor, not that he betrayed his serum sled team.” Balto then cut in,

“Steele, is that a bit selfish? You're fighting for yourself.”

“Yeah it's selfish but you still get out.” Balto walked away leaving Steele and Silver alone.

“Look Silver, I want you to get your freedom. I'm not just doing this for my team, but also for you.”

“Thank you Steele. You're first one since my father who has done this for me.”

As Balto was walking along, a 3 dozen huskies crossed his path. The head husky had those friendly eyes. He shouted out,

“My American brother! I bring you my Soviet team, the Norwegians, and the Japanese. They will fight for you.”

Chapter 10: The Kalak Lord

The 44 brave dogs stood in positions. They were looking around anxiously for the Kalak. The sun lowered on the horizon, the battle was about to begin. The sky went dark and black masses started to materialize. Everyone was scarred and prepared to die, but they wanted to die in glory. The battle started. The each team got on top of the creatures, tearing them to pieces. Creatures thrashed and killed many dogs. Red dog blood was starting to stain the ground, as well as the gray Kalak blood. Steele was an unstoppable force as he jumped from throat to throat. The dogs felt like they were killing more Kalaks than losing dogs. Balto gave a victorious howl and lunged for one of the four legged creatures. Balto was so quick and nimble, the creature couldn't touch him. Balto won and killed it. Steele then shouted,

“Bring me your Lord! I came to kill him.” The fighting ceased and a dark fog settled. The fog seemed to speak,

“You're a fool. Very well, I'll enjoy to have to you as one of my minions.”

The fog gathered in front of Steele and it formed into an Alaskan Malamute with those mysteriously colored eyes glowing. Steele knew there was no turning back; it was do or die.

The :ord made first strike and Steele dodged him, but he came back and knocked Steele down from the side. The mighty Kalak clawed him on the side, give Steele gashes. The pain angered Steele and he got a hold of the Lord's throat. The Lord kept clawing Steele while Steele held one, Steele winced in pain breathed deeply with blood staining his coat.

“You're the best mortal I've faced. Normally they're mine by now.”

“Is that fear I sense?” mocked Steele.

“No. Respect.” This gave Steele a chill of appreciation, getting respected. Now he's energized! Steele charged the Kalak Lord. The Lord got under and bit his belly. Steele felt the teeth sink in and the internal bleeding flowed forth. It's only a matter of time before the fight is over. The Lord laughed victoriously,

“You feel that weakness swell over you? Take it and make it your comfort. Soon you'll be an immortal. My immortal!”

Steele stood up. He wasn't accepting defeat. The Lord swiped him and knock him down. Then took his head in his jaws and threw him down again and again. Steele looked limp as a rag dog but was still breathing. Thoughts rung through his head, “Glory Hound”, “Traitor”, “Coward”, “Liar”.

“No... I am Steele of Nome. My honor must live and so must my friends.”

It seemed like a strength surged through Steele, despite all the wounds, he moved like a wave and crashed into the Lord. He went flying into a rock. Steele charged him and started to claw up his face. He dodges a lunge the Lord made and kicked him with his hind legs. Steele picked him up and while holding him, slammed him against a column of rock. Each collision made the dog's body wrap around it like a towel. Soon Steele heard a snap and the struggling from the Lord's body stopped; Steele snapped his neck. Steele let go and the lifeless body blew away like dust as well as the other Kalaks. Steele looked to Balto and nodded, then to Silver Cloud. Steele collapsed and Silver Cloud rushed over there as did Balto. Steele closed his eyes and began to grow cold,

“Balto... thank you... for... this... realizing the brute... I was... thank you. I'm sorry.” Balto nodded and acknowledged. Steele barely opened his eyes and saw Silver Cloud,

“Silver... you have your... freedom.... I'm sorry that... I can't stay.... you're just so... beautiful... I wanted to be with you.” Just then, Steele heard the words that nobody has ever said to him,

“I love you.” whispered Silver. Steele gave a smile and closed his eyes. Silver howled as Steele ceased to breath, ceased to beat, ceased to live. All of the surviving dogs there will remember Steele of Nome.

Chapter 11: Nome

Balto talked to Kurgan and found a way back to Alaska and to his town. But before he went to see Jenna, a thought crossed his path. Kurgan said that he must go the cliff where he met the white wolf during the serum run. He crossed the countryside for days, then he found it. The weather started to gather into a blizzard and white is all he saw. Balto sensed something and there he was, the white wolf, then another one of them appeared. The other was his mother. It hit Balto,

“Father?”

The white wolf nodded and pointed to a lump in the snow. Balto ran over to the lump and dug. There he struck something. He continued to remove the snow and there he saw the frozen skeleton of a dog. Balto to the white wolf,

“Is this you?”

The white wolf nodded and faded in the blizzard as well as his mother. The blizzard died down and disappeared. Balto began to break down and cry over the remains. He was happy for his father because he reached his goal.