They rode back toward Carthage the next day and went to Azdrubaal's house, which was just outside the city. He picked up his sword, some clothes and changed. They continued into the city to the bazaar to buy a few things they'd need. He bought Domna some new clothes. She really had sold nearly everything, including most of her jewelry. He bought food, too - 'real food'. By the time they returned to Domna's house it was nearly nightfall. They ate and slept. The next morning they harnessed the horses up to the wagon and fetched Celus. It was going to take the both men to haul that chest out of the ground, once they'd dug it up. Domna sat in the shade of the hills near the little lake there and watched the men dig. They finally got it out and opened it. She was ecstatic when she saw what was inside. It was the first time Azdrubaal had seen what was in it too. He only knew it was very heavy. There were gold and silver coins - lots of them; gemstones, rough and cut, as well as pearls from the Orient, and several pieces of Egyptian and Persian jewelry; there were necklaces, earrings and bracelets enough to make any one happy. Sergius had provided very well indeed for his widow. Azdrubaal enjoyed her excitement. He found it satisfying. She was like a little child - so happy! Domna stood up from looking through the chest and turned to him. "Well there ye be, dear lady. I think you'll be fine now." Celus was excited too. He went to bring the wagon closer to load up the chest. They'd brought a tarp along to cover it from curious eyes. "You don't know how much this means to me, Azdrubaal. You've saved *my* life, now. How can I ever thank you?" she asked touching his rough cheek tenderly. He shrugged and smiled. "I'll think of something," he laughed. By the gods, she was so pretty and sweet. She was getting harder and harder to resist. ***** Background and treasure chest made in VUE by me. The chest was fun to make! :) Rogue Armory pants by Sickleyield Hidden Winds dress by FK-Dynamics Both are very nice to work with! Thanks for stopping by and your comments dear friends. It's Friday! Hope you have a great weekend. Rayvn