Matelo

Matelo (Mataro in the fan translation) is a non-player character in Trials of Mana.

Story

Chapter I

Matelo is first met in Chapter I, where he is a "supernatural enthusiast" who lives in Beiser. His dream at the time is to become a ghost.

In SNES version, at night, he can be found on a pier in Beiser, watching the sea for signs of the rumored ghost ship. During the day Matelo can be found outside the janitor's house, speculating it must be haunted since there's no one in during the day but lights come on at night.

Chapter II

In Chapter II, Matelo ends up aboard the Ghost Ship and is successful in becoming a ghost after reading the cursed ship's log. When the heroes approach it, Matelo reacts with delight, but soon finds displeasure in his current state and ends up transferring the curse onto the current party leader. What becomes of him after the ship vanishes is not initially known, but he manages to return to Beiser nonetheless.

In SNES version, however, Matelo is excited about his experiences as a ghost and is enthusiastic to share his findings with his friends back home. He hints that the only way to leave the Ghost Ship is to pass the curse to someone else and transfers it to the party leader.

After his return, Matelo continues his research of the supernatural creatures, taking interest in the legend of Vuscav. The party can later obtain the More Encounters Chain Ability by simply talking to him again in Beiser after the Ghost Ship ride.

Etymology

Matelo is most likely derived from the Old English/French word matelot meaning sailor, which is fitting considering his interest in the Ghost Ship.