Sulpicus became extremely worried of his master's condition lately. Since the visit at the House of Ishtar, master Quintus was a different man. Not a single moment of joy in his life. Before that visit, there were times when he let himself loose a bit and reappeared the happy man who went off to war. Now, it was worse than the period of recovery after his release from the army. He does what he is told, no less, no more.
Maybe it's time to really consider that trip. According to the old saying: varietas delectat. That's exactly what master Quintus needs, something that changes the monotonity of his life.

-Master, I think the priestess is right. You should go to Babylon and visit that Grand Temple.
-No way, Gnaeus charged me with running the business outside of Italia. I have duties here.

"What good are you to your brother in this condition?" thought Sulpicus. "The slaves now fear you more than they feared Livia Drusa. She is at least a mortal woman, but you seem a walking dead to them." But he did not sound his thoughts.

-He will surely understand. Soon we sell all the factories here and we shall move to Italia, anyway. Your mother won't return at all as I hear. I take care of the negotiations here while you visit Sicilia, Sardinia and Corsica and finally the City. After you reached Rome you can decide about the further voyage.
-I do not care about Babylon. This priestess was unable to help me, why should I believe that I can find one there who is powerful enough?

"Good question indeed. I, over 55, feel myself young again just from the memory of the priestess Bershaba. If it is not enough for Quintus Sempronius, what can help him? But he must have faith, otherwise all hope is lost."

-Master, you have time to decide about Babylon later. But don't forget, your mother wants you to marry. I would not dare to challenge her will.
-All right, let her have her wish. If I have to go to Babylon, I will, just she be satisfied. Don't forget, not a word to anyone, not even to my brother.