The two heroes set off the next day.
The waiting ship was crewed by Theseus’ personal guard: trusted men, completely loyal to him. They rowed out from Piræus to the open sea. The wind was in their favour, so they hoisted the sail. They gave the islands, white-beached Ægina, mountainous Ydrea, pine-clad Pitoussia, wide berths to lessen the chance of their journey being discovered. Theseus and Pirithous huddled together in the prow of the ship. Theseus again voiced his concerns about their proposed exploit. ‘We can still turn back. It’s not too late.’
Pirithous smiled seductively. ‘It’ll be fine. Don’t worry. Now let’s get some sleep before we set out on our great adventure.’
They safely anchored in the Bay of Prasia the following morning. Theseus and Pirithous prepared to leave the ship.
