Michiko visits her old friend Ivan to ask the whereabouts of a man named Satoshi, who might know where Hiroshi is. Thinking the task ahead to be dangerous, Michiko leaves Hatchin with Zelia Bastos at the orphanage where she grew up, for her safety.

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.

Michiko and Hatchin reach the tomato production plant where they anticipate finding Hiroshi. Once inside, they meet Elis, the woman who appears in the photograph with him. Michiko confronts her about stealing Hiroshi, but Elis reacts unexpectedly.