Chapter 87

“Now we no see him,” she later told Quinn. “But he watch us.”

As the senior men in the family paddled Pina and Tjok back to shore, Quinn, Tam and the others there set lit paper lanterns adrift on the water, symbolizing the souls of the ancestors. Quinn and Tam crossed themselves, bowed their heads, and prayed.

At the house, they shared a meal with the family in the backyard, while dancers in red, green, and gold costumes performed. Quinn wandered alone along an overgrown stone path toward a wooded area.

“Tam,” he called, “come look at this.”

In the dusky wetlands, fireflies twinkled, like so many fallen stars.32

Tjok called early the next morning. “My mother would like to see the two of you,” he said

At the house, she spoke in Balinese to Tjok, punctuating her words with gestures to make sure he understood.

“My mother has a request,” he said, half-embarrassed.

“Tjok, whatever you need, we’re happy to help,” Tam said.