When Michiko's motorbike breaks down, the two are stranded for several days in a rural river settlement. While there, Michiko becomes attracted to a man named Bruno, but has second thoughts when she finds out that he is a married man.

In the town of Perna, famous for its weeping Maria statue, Hatchin is traveling alone and low on money. She befriends a young girl from the local circus named Rita, who is infatuated with her adult performing partner, and desperate to grow up.