Lost Creek Hollow of the men

They had spoken before, he recalled, of their separate but similar situations. Listening to her now Kigipigak tried to empathise or at least understand her thoughts and concerns, which for the most part he agreed with.

My people... He began to say, then paused, as if what he were about to share were very deeply personal. It was personal, but Kigipigak had never been squeamish about sharing his culture before. Although he had felt separate from his people for a while now; segregated by more than great distance.

Men and women are not just joined by marriage. Those that are very close, regardless of gender even, can become aokatti—blood bonded. He paused to think, ordering his thoughts so that he can speak without confusion. I think if I were to choose marriage... I would want an aokatti first. Or someone of such strong connection that we would be willing to form such a bond. I do not think I will partake in the opportunity made by Mahler. Not now, anyway. I have not made such connections.

He stopped there, watching her.