They were finally off for Rabat with everything they could take with them stowed down in the hold in crates and some of Bacchus and Dido's things in barrels in the cabin. Bacchus had sold the shop to someone who'd been after him to buy it, as well as the warehouse and it's contents - that is what was left. He'd sent out a messenger to all of his clients telling them that he was selling the business and they either paid rent to the new owner or got their stuff out. About 80 percent of them decided they would pay the new owner the rent. Some took their things and left, while others simply didn't respond or get their belongings. Too bad for them! While Koji and Bacchus' two dogs, Ghadu and Qabir, now tolerated one anothers' presence, they still weren't overly fond of one another. So Ghadu and Qabir were put in the hold to guard their goods from nosy intruders. Koji stayed in the cabin to protect the women. It all worked out. It was their third night out. Domna hadn't been feeling well all day in spite of the fact she'd taken Dido's elixir for the sickness of the sea. It worked on everyone else, but Domna. She refused to eat dinner and went to sleep in one of the bunks in the back of the cabin. Everyone ate but Azdrubaal, who was at the tiller and plotting their course in his head by the stars and all too familiar landmarks looming in the darkness along the shores. The Sultana was the better and newer of the two boats, and he loved 'er. It made him a little sad to be giving her up, but he knew the Egyptian would let him run 'er any time he asked...should he feel so inclined. They had a good wind so far. He prayed it would hold until they got to the Pillars. Getting past and through the Pillars was always the worst part of the trip. Not only could the waters be treacherous, but it seemed to be a new favorite place for pirates to attack - men like the Corsican, unscrupulous cutthroats and thieves. However most of their kind were busy up north and east with their little war with the Romans, so he hoped not to have any unwonted company trailing behind them. He finally got to go below and eat when the Egyptian and Bacchus came up to relieve him. Bacchus wanted to learn how to pilot the boat - out of curiosity more than anything. Azdrubaal filled Solomon in on which stars to follow and went below. He met Shu-shu and Celus coming up to the deck on his way down. Koji was still in the cabin with Dido, begging her constantly for food. Azdrubaal lost count of how many times she told him no while he ate. He was just finishing up when Shu-shu came back into the cabin. She looked upset. "There is trouble below, Master. Ghadu and Qabir have man cornered there. Captain says you should come. Master Bacchus is down there for dogs, but he want you both there. Come quickly!" "You stay here with Domna, Dido and Koji, Shu-shu. All right?" Azdrubaal rose from his chair to go. "Aye, aye Master. We guard the Ladys!!" Shu-shu smiled tightly. ***** Have a great Friday my friends and take care! Rayvn