please go over the house rules with Nadira as well. See that she has something to eat and have Phoebe show her to her rooms."

"Nadira," I turn to our guest, "I'm sure that your attendant has finished preparing your accommodations on the second level by now." I venture a tired smile. "When you have dined and rested, that will be time enough for us to chat."

Heading back to my sanctum sanctorum, I broach a subject near and dear to Mia's heart, money. "You know, this will cost you dearly Dominia. Mungo's services don't come cheap after all."

A part of me enjoys the look of shock on Dominia's face. It is obvious that she had no idea I expected her to pay for the "job" Mungo was probably enjoying at the moment.

"Me? Cost - ME?" Dominia seems to be strangling on something.

"Oh yes my dear, you want her, you will have to pay for the privilege." My tone indicates that this is not an argument Domina can win, but she has to try.

"Now Morga, be reasonable. I am not in the market for a slave. She is going to be part of the household staff AND working for you and earning you money! Why should I pay for that?"

With great patience, I reply, "Be reasonable 'Mia. I'm not in the market for another girl. We don't know if she has any experience or education, and if she doesn't, I can't use her for the sophisticated clientele we cater to."

Looking at my long-time friend, I put it on the line. "If you want her, Mia, you're going to have to pay for her. Otherwise, I expect Mungo will find a use for her."

Domina closes her eyes briefly. I can tell the thought of that brute getting his hands on a person made her shudder and the though of having to spend money gave her actual physical pain.

"Morga," again, Dominia seemed to be choking, possibly on her purse? "IF, I agree to this, this, this bargain, her earnings are mine. In toto." Dominia's tone leaves little doubt in my mind that she means every word and denari of the deal she is proposing.

"Her earnings, okay...but there will be deductions for her keep...just like all the others...Naifa will see to it"

"I asume they will be reasonable, since she will not require a room of her own." Dominia growls.

"I am sure Naifa will take that into account."

"See that she does. I am trusting you to be fair since I will probably have to buy the girl many items. Dominia winces again, restoring some of my good humor.

"Dominia, I am sure we can come to an accomodation. Now, if you will inform the rest of the staff that I am going to bathe and then dine out, please?