The Spirit of the North

The trail into the bush from Dawson was well travelled. Like a magnet it drew men into its realm, the search for gold and fur overwhelming common sense, often ending in death and despair for many of these adventurous souls. Johnathan and his newly acquired “family” which accompanied him were now deep in the forest. The silence in the bush was offset only by the hoofbeats of Honey as she walked the uneven, rocky trail. Johnathan surmised his destination was a three-day journey from the city. He hoped the cabin he was travelling to was sound and habitable and its outbuilding for the livestock would be found still standing. The afternoon sun was waning as dusk approached. Johnathan thought about finding a campsite for the night. He moved his entourage into the forest, finding a clearing which would suffice for the evening camp. He tethered Honey and then gathered wood for his fire. Johnathan would use the campfire for cooking and warmth. The spring days in the Yukon were warm, followed by cold nights. Keeping the fire burning and sleeping close by assured warm passage through the cold night. Johnathan and Chase enjoyed sitting around the fire, the crackling of the burning wood was the only sound to be heard in the silence of the forest. What seemed like a million stars shone down upon their camp. A sudden howl from a wolf pack broke the serenity of the moment. The wolves were close by, Honey’s scent being the attractant. The donkey shuffled uncomfortably, the odor of the predators in her nose. This aroma struck terror in Honey’s heart. Johnathan moved the donkey closer to the campfire, where it would be easier to protect her if attacked. He checked his rifle to be sure it was ready for use. Johnathan waited, knowing the hungry wolf pack would visit his camp tonight. An uneasy silence followed. Johnathan and Chase sensed eyes watching them from the darkness of the forest. The sound of snapping twigs caught their attention, as the wolf pack moved closer to their camp. Johnathan decided to be proactive and stay one step ahead of the wolves. He shot his rifle into the bush; a half dozen rounds in a circle around his camp. He hoped this action would thwart off an attack, scaring the wolves into a hasty retreat. The six rounds led to a swift departure and resulted in one dead wolf which Chase discovered in the morning. A lucky shot by Johnathan had hit its mark in the darkness. The trio managed to finally get the rest needed for their travels the following day. The sun shone brightly as it rose above the horizon, causing a red morning sky to appear. The morning air was crisp as Johnathan broke camp. He ate smoked jerky for breakfast and fed Chase a preserved dog food he had purchased. Johnathan would do what he could to feed himself and Chase until a supply of fresh meat could be procured and smoked at their cabin. With Johnathan in front guiding Honey, the trio broke camp and continued their journey to the cabin and their new life.