In this short story, Rigoberto, an orphan, is the tallest, strongest, wisest and kindest man in the small fishing village of Agua Rocosa. His mother, who wandered off within weeks of his birth, is rumored to be a witch, but has gained goddess status with many of the villagers. Nearing the end of her existence as he obtains his thirty-third year, she gives him the gift of his father and much about his life becomes clear.