And So the Journey Begins

The day had finally arrived for them to depart. Standing on the docks, Katie tried to keep her nerves down and focused on her breathing. Holding Peggy's lead with one hand, she scratched the mare's neck with the other, using the affection to calm herself and the mare. Peggy was usually fairly steady, but she'd never been to the docks before, so all the sounds, scents and sights were all new to her. To be fair, they were new to Katie too. It was so busy, she wasn't sure where to look.

Peggy nickered, drawing Katie's attention back to the mare.

Katie let out a breath, clearing her head. “Thanks, girl.”

She glanced down to check on the dogs. Friday sat calmly beside her while Jarvis snoozed at her feet. At least her animals weren’t bothered by all the commotion. That was one less thing for her to worry about.

Finally it came time for them to board the ship. Katie gently nudged Jarvis’ side with her boot. “Wakey, wakey. We gotta go now.”

The grey wilty blinked sleepily and lifted his head to look at her.

“Up.”

He stood and Katie clucked her tongue, urging the trio of animals onward. She carefully guided them all onto the gangplank. Peggy paused as she stepped onto the ship, ears pinned back as she snorted.

“Easy, girl,” Katie soothed, raising a hand to scratch under Peggy’s ear. “I know the ship’s a little scary but everything’s going to be okay.”

Peggy’s nostrils flared but she settled and continued forward.

The rest of the journey to the onboard stables was thankfully uneventful. Katie put the mare into her stall and took the dogs back to her room. She somehow managed to get lost and had to ask directions from one of the helpful staff, but once that was settled she was one her way again and arrived at her cabin.

Stepping inside, she let Friday and Jarvis off lead. Both dogs immediately started sniffing around. Katie visually inspected the room herself as she walked further inside. It was a modest room, with a TV on the wall opposite the single bed and a large window which currently had a view of the harbour. She even had her own small bathroom with a shower, sink and toilet. The staff had already left her bags near the bed too. Katie sat on the edge of the bed, running her hands over the soft cover, unable to keep the wide smile off her face. “I think I’m going to enjoy the cruise more than the show.”