Tanon

I held Tanon tightly in my arms as he cried, as we both cried.

The Pilgrimage 2009

As I was holding Tanon, who had grew ill, and watching the dolphins playfully circling our boat and jumping in and out of the water, I heard a scream.

The Pilgrimage 2009

Frey, Iah, Tanon, and Fayiz were asleep in the shade of the sails.

The Pilgrimage 2009

Tanon was the first person to jump from the ship and dove smoothly into the crystal waters.

The Pilgrimage 2009

A boy, Tanon, had reached manhood last year and was the chosen person to replace Iah when he died.

The Pilgrimage 2009

Tanon shifted uncomfortably, perhaps worrying that his place as future priest was being threatened.

The Pilgrimage 2009

“This could be true, Tanon, that could explain their check over us,” he said, “we make them happy, we satisfy them, and they will satisfy us and give us a bountiful sea and earth.”

The Pilgrimage 2009

Frey or Fayiz would create a fire with flint and Tanon and I would cook some of the recognizable — but detestable — leaves and roots in the area.

The Pilgrimage 2009

Tanon and Iah came down the dock shortly after we arrived, boarding the boat.

The Pilgrimage 2009

“Maybe they were creating fish for us to catch and eat,” Tanon proposed.

The Pilgrimage 2009