What is a word to describe how Brian felt when he realizes the hatchet can make sparks?

I think that one of the most powerful dynamics in the
story is how disappointment and exhilaration go together.  Brian is shown to be a
character who is, on one hand, faced with frustration at nearly every turn.  Yet, this
is also countered with some type of discovery.  This dialectic is what allows the novel
to represent his own survival and also shows how the theme of the novel is evident in
its very structure.  When Brian throws the hatchet, he is angry at the porcupine and in
a great deal of pain.  There is a moment of revelation or recognition when he sees the
sparks emerge from it.  He is exhilarated and taken aback at his "good fortune" and at
what emerged from this.  I think that another word that can be used is "wonderment." 
Brian begins to wonder about what can be done with these small sparks and from this, he
develops the ability and endures the trial to harness fire as something more than a
source of food and warmth.  He looks at it as a "companion."  This moment is brought
about by the sense of wonderment that Brian develops once he sees the
sparks.