Ocean's Breath Plateau ivory heart

The mention of Moonsong had his ears pricking in interest. Though he and Raiyuk had hunted for Ariadne once before, they had not ventured up the ice-mountain to see the seals. "I would like to see him before we leave for the seal-hunting place," he agreed. He had much to ask Dutch and, perhaps, much to learn to satiate his growing curiosity. 

Anxiety bloomed in his chest at his next words - or was it joy? To be called a son, to feel as if he belonged. It was complex as it was exciting. "Often I think about what my real dad would be like if he had stayed," his grin faded to something more solemn. "I used to think I missed him, but I've realised I've kinda been missing the concept." He had searched for it in Germanicus, once, but he had found it in Chakliux. "I think I see you as more of a real dad than him." Matteo met his gaze, lips quirking upwards. Chakliux had been there to guide him where Ulrich had not - it was simple and yet something he had never expressed in words before. 

Chakliux went on to ask again if he wished to join the seal hunters. "I don't think- I'm not sure I'm strong enough to be worthy of calling myself a seal hunter yet," he confessed. Chakliux was not present for the hunt, but Matteo's scars were telling enough of his cowardice. And Raiyuk was so...so much better than him. Amidst pride for his lodge-brother's upcoming ceremony, there stirred a bitter sentiment of feeling left behind. "I'm not cut out for hunting, Chakliux. I got scared with the bison - they were so big and there was so many of them. When you ask me to hunt a seal, I'm not sure I'll be able to do it."