The boy fed voraciously on the whale, only pausing to consider Chakliux's words. It was odd for a fish lack scales, but surely a whale was a fish. What else could it be?

He swipes his tongue across his muzzle. The boy placed his paw against the whale's skin. Slowly he pressed his weight against the thick hide. It was no vain attempt at moving the animal, but to feel the creature's weight for himself. Massive, rare, and a grand find from what could be salvaged from a whale's body.

Kukik was surprised to find a note of sorrow manifesting in his chest. The mere mention of Old Bull and Ivory Sister pulling at his heartstrings. The boy knew of them, but would they ever know him? Would Kukik ever truly be a real walrus hunter? It was his right by birth and blood to be, but who could witness his rite of passage into manhood? His trial of silence?

Was he even worthy?

Old Bull and Ivory Sister are known to live in all walruses. I do not know if they command other sea creatures, but walrus hunters live to embody them within ourselves. Kukik removed his paw from the whale, his voice soft. Be strong as Old Bull. Have dedication like Ivory Sister. These are some of the things we say.

The boy fell quiet for a few heartbeats before braving a smile to Chakliux. A mask donned to hide the dilemma within. Whomever granted us this gift, be it spirit or the whale itself, I am grateful for it.