Feelings were not the focus of Sabella Cardunetti's engagement. The Horasian widow longed for a husband beyond the Southern Sea and for gracious forgetfulness. However, escaping the past proves to be much more difficult than anticipated. Pericomo ya Frecelli, a newly ordained servant of the goddess Peraine, only wanted to plant ornamental gardens and help out at the hospital. Accompanying Sabella and her maid was not part of his plans, nor were the other complications that arose during the journey. Elissea Braiolini, captain of the pirate ship Morgentau, loves rum, gold, and her freedom. When, after weeks, no loot is in sight and the crew becomes restless, she abruptly leaves familiar waters to capture a ship - with unforeseen consequences for everyone involved.