Teddy recovers - and the Limos take the group to Cairo airport. There is then a repeat - in reverse - of the flights, taking the group back to Los Angeles, while Jim, Ethan Zac and Teddy discuss the appearance of Khonsu at the 'Club Athena. On arrival at Los Angeles they all return to the 'Villa Athena', and later the 'Club Athena' and the 'Penthouse' in Nevada.
Now everyone's worried about Teddy, but after Faunus switches the little bear back on, and gives him a thorough check, it appears that Teddy has had, what in frail, weak humans, would be described as a case of 'nervous exhaustion'.
 |
| Upgraded Teddy |
Faunus, wisely, removes a number of 'language modules' from Teddy's 'database' - as it would be highly unlikely that he would be speaking Chinese or Russian - or a number of other weird and unnecessary languages with which he had been equipped - and so Teddy was back to his usual, and often annoying self.
And yet again it was time to pack.
The limos were to been sent back to Luxor after the boys had left for their flight, where Ismail, helped by Faunus - who would travel back in one of the limos - would arrange for them to be stored in a secure garage, and would 'pay-off' the drivers.
The limos for journey to the Cairo Airport, however, were being be arranged by the Gezira Palace Hotel.
Ethan, of course, was very pleased to get Teddy back - apparently to 'normal' - but there was the problem that Teddy had experienced some 'missing time' - and so, like a person recovering from a mild concussion, he kept asking about what had happend, and what was going on - and started to get worried that he might have been 'abducted by aliens' - which, of course, he hadn't.
Faunus' advice was for Ethan to simply press Teddy's 'reset' button - which seemed to do the trick.
Fortunately they were not leaving until the afternoon - but unfortunately that gave Teddy plenty of time to try and get everyone organised and ready for the return journey.
The limos for journey to the Cairo Airport, however, were being be arranged by the Gezira Palace Hotel.
Ethan, of course, was very pleased to get Teddy back - apparently to 'normal' - but there was the problem that Teddy had experienced some 'missing time' - and so, like a person recovering from a mild concussion, he kept asking about what had happend, and what was going on - and started to get worried that he might have been 'abducted by aliens' - which, of course, he hadn't.
Faunus' advice was for Ethan to simply press Teddy's 'reset' button - which seemed to do the trick.
Fortunately they were not leaving until the afternoon - but unfortunately that gave Teddy plenty of time to try and get everyone organised and ready for the return journey.
مطار القاهرة الدولي - Maṭār El Qāhira El Dawly - is the principal international airport of Cairo and the busiest airport in Egypt and serves as the primary hub for EgyptAir and Nile Air as well as several other airlines. The airport is located in Heliopolis, to the northeast of Cairo, around 9.3 miles from the business area of the city, and has an area of approximately 14 square miles.
"So guys....are we all ready to go ?", Jim asked, as they sat down to lunch.
Everyone nodded in agreement.
"And Zac - is everything ok ?..", Jim added.
Zac had already checked that all the suitcases, and the trunk containing Jim's telescope, were all stacked in the hotel lobby, under the watchful eyes of the hotel staff.
"Yes Jim, everything's ready to be loaded into the limos...and then we're off to Heliopolis....", Zac replied.
 |
| Heliopolis - Cairo Egypt |
And so they ate their lunch, and then sunned themselves in the hotel gardens as they waited for the time when they were due to make their drive to Heliopolis.
"That's one place we never visited....", Ethan said to Jim.
"Well that's true, but Teddy told me that, although it's important in Egyptian history and mythology, there's practically nothing left to see - so there was not much point in visiting...", Jim explained - and Ethan nodded and dozed off again.
So the limos, supplied by the hotel, arrived and, after saying farewell to Faunus - as he was returning to 'Vegas the 'easy way', via Luxor and the 'Lion Cave' - they made their way to Cairo Airport.
It was only a half-hour journey - that is if there was not too much traffic.
 |
| Cairo International Airport - Entrance - Egypt |
Now airports, on average, are not usually attractive buildings, but Cairo Airport manages to be remarkably unattractive - looking suspiciously like a rather hi-tech waterworks.
But no matter- as long as everything went smoothly, and they were on their flight to Dubai, the appearance of Cairo airport was unimportant.
On this occasion, as they were returning to the US, and had no use for their 'small-change' - they allowed their luggage to be taken by porters, but were careful to keep a careful watch on the rather 'scruffy' individuals, as their luggage, with the exception of that belonging to 'Sigi', which had been bought in Luxor, was of very good quality.
 |
| Emirates First Class Lounge - Cairo International Airport - Egypt |
Then, once Jim, Zac and Josh had helped to sort out all the 'messy bits' with tickets and passports - and Teddy had been ignominiously passed through a scanner, they went to the Emirates first class lounge.
 |
| On the Tarmac - Cairo Airport - Egypt |
They didn't have a long wait, and soon they were being escorted to the waiting 'plane - where, once more, they met their rather 'over-made-up', but still very charming and attractive stewardesses - who appeared to be completely enraptured by the 'cute' blond boy with his lovely teddy-bear.
 |
| Emirates Stewardesses |
Fortunately Teddy didn't reveal his real thoughts - as he was, in fact, capable of some surprisingly 'strong language' for such a sweet looking cuddly 'toy'.
 |
| First Class Passenger Cabin - Emirates |
And so all the 'boy's strode down the gangway, looking every inch seasoned first class travellers.
As the seats - or rather 'seating compartments' were so roomy on Emirates, Teddy was quite happy to share with Ethan - sitting most of the time on Ethan's knee.
"Here you are, Sir, ....a nice seat for you and your sweet دمية دب - 'damiyat dabin'...", the stewardess said, giving what Ethan thought was a rather 'sickly' smile.
"That's Arabic for 'teddy-bear'....", Teddy said quietly.
Fortunately, with all the noise of the engines warming up, the stewardess didn't hear.
 |
| Peter Pan - 1953 - Walt Disney |
"Now don't you start translating stuff, Teddy.... we don't want you going wonky again...", Ethan said rather seriously.
The Stewardess gave Ethan a strange look, but said nothing and walked on.
"So ... I see they have all the same 'gizmos'.", Ethan said, surveying the seating cubicle - and relieved that the stewardess seemed to be ignoring them.
"Yes.. and all very nice and comfortable - so when can I play my DVD ", Teddy asked eagerly.
"..'Peter Pan', I presume ?", Ethan asked, knowing that the answer would be 'yes'.
"Yes...but the 1953 version - it's got more comedy in it, so it helps me feel less nervous.", Teddy replied.
"Ok...but wait until the pre-flight coffee comes, and we take off...", Ethan warned.
 |
| Ethan's Headphones |
 |
| Pre-flight Coffee - Emirates First Class |
Meanwhile, Ethan raked around in his cabin bag for his 'Sennheiser HD 820s', while Teddy prepared to plug himself into the sound system of the seat.
"Now you be careful Teddy - it's one thing to plug in some headphones - even if they are very technically advanced - but quite another to plug in your massive database.
There's no knowing if you might completely swamp this puny aircraft's flight control systems.", Ethan said.
As Ethan found his headphones, another stewardess turned up with a very elegant looking coffee-pot, and proceeded to pour Ethan some coffee.
Teddy then asked for his little 'mini' DVD player, and his 1953 version of 'Peter Pan'.
Ethan complied - but gave Teddy a stern warning.
"Now you just wait until we're in the air before you start watching that.
I just need to know first if the 'plane is working properly.
"Ok..", Teddy muttered quietly - obviously beginning to sulk.
And so the doors of the 'plane were closed, the engines revved a little, and the 'plane slowly began to taxi to the take-off runway.
The 'plane then suddenly came to a halt.
 |
| "Here we go !" |
The engines then revved furiously, and with a sudden lurch the 'plane launched itself along the runway.
 |
| Emirates Take-off from Cairo - Egypt |
"Here we go !", Ethan said, making a good imitation of Peter Pan's famous line as Peter, Wendy, John Michael and Teddy took off on their flight to 'Neverland'.
Jim, however, didn't hear Ethan's silly comments...as he was deep in thought.
He was thinking of how they had originally ended up on this trip - from which they were now returning.
It had all begun when Jim, Josh, Ethan and Teddy and Glen had visited the 'California Combat Club' to see how things were going, and how Jonathan was getting on.
Once again it had been Glen - and he had passed out, and apparently received some sort of communication - possibly from some 'alien' source - but the communication was very brief - just 'come to us' in English, but written in Egyptian hieroglyphics.
Then, after going to the Villa Athena, and talking the matter over with Novius, Faunus had arrived.
Eventually it was Teddy who worked out that whoever sent the message meant them to go to Egypt - but what was troubling Jim was the fact that while the trip had been very interesting - as far as he could see it had achieved very little - at least as far as working out the origins of the messages that Glen had been receiving - and their purpose.
But as they were at that point flying back to the US - Jim decided it was best to stop trying to solves this latest puzzle, and just relax and doze.
There would be plenty of time to sort matters out one they returned to the 'Villa Athena' and discussed matters with Novius and Faunus.
The flight from Cairo to Dubai took only three and a half hours - and then there would be a brief stop-over.
The the next stage of the journey - Dubai to Los Angeles would take nineteen hours - which was problematic - and Jim was thinking that, regardless of the risks, it would be much easier to use Faunus' Room 33, as that would make the journey almost instantaneous.
 |
| Emirates First Class Lounge - Dubai |
 |
| McDonald's - Dubai Airport |
Regardless, it was then time to disembark.
Jim had decided to have a chat with Zac, so he sent Ethan off with Josh and the others to find the rather sophisticated McDonald's, situated in the terminal, while he and Zac and Teddy went to the Emirates first class lounge.
"So...what's the problem, Jim ?", Zac asked.
"Well it's not really a problem, at least I hope it's not...
You see, it's about this photo you showed me back in Cairo.", Jim began.
"You mean the one Brody took at the 'Club Athena' in 'Vegas....", Zac responded.
"Yes...exactly.", Jim replied.
Jim then took out his 'cell-phone' and showed Zac the image.
"Yes...well it's certainly the reception desk at the 'Club Athena'...and, like I said to you before, it does look like Khonsu...", Zac said.
 |
| 'Khonsu' at the 'Club Athena' - 'Vegas |
"And presumably Brody took the photo because he recognised the boy from the time in the 'Pyramid Ship' in Chaco Canyon....", Jim commented.
"Yes.. or perhaps he just fancied the guy.... you know what Brody's like...", Zac said with a grin.
"What, and then later realised who the boy might be...", Jim said.
"Possibly....but for an 'ancient Egyptian'... or maybe an 'alien', Khonsu certainly seems to have good - and expensive - fashion sense.", Zac added.
"OK..so let's get down to it...
If this is Khonsu, then how do you think he got to the 'Club Athena' in 'Vegas.... considering the last we heard of him he was having dinner with von Braun's mother, Baroness Emmy von Quistorp, in Berlin in nineteen-twenty-something...?
"Well that's easy....", Teddy said, interrupting.
"Assuming our 'friend' Khonsu is an 'alien', then he's probably telepathic, and so he knew where we were going when we made our escape in the 'elevator' at the Hotel Adlon."
 |
| Elevator - Hotel Adlon - Berlin |
At that point their flight to Cairo was called....
"Better leave this until we are in the 'plane - after all, we will have lots of time to talk about how we might deal with this during our flight - in fact about nineteen hours...", Jim said, as they quickly made their way to McDonald's to pick up the others.
Ethan, of course, was sulking, but trying not to show it.
He was, predictably upset because he had been left out of the discussion between Jim and Zac - and what was even worse, Teddy had been included in the 'meeting'.
So once again they boarded their 'plane - but this time actually a different aircraft.
 |
| First Class Emirates Cabin - Dubai |
"Well...here we are again...", Ethan said, as they strolled down the gangway and were shown to their seats.
Once they had their compulsory (very strong) coffee, and had 'taken off', Jim had the task of putting things right with Ethan by inviting him, along with Teddy, to the continuation of the meeting between himself and Zac.
 |
| Emirates Take-off from Dubai |
"And Teddy, I know you will insist on entering all this on your laptop, but just don't attract attention to yourself.
'Tap' the keyboard quietly, and keep the screen well up, so that the Emirates staff won't notice you typing...OK ?", Jim said.
"OK, Jim... I will do everything as you wish..", Teddy replied very politely.
"So ... I suggest that we go to the bar - and hopefully no one else will be there...", Jim said.
 |
| Emirates 'On-Board' Bar |
And the bar was empty, apart from yet another of Emirate's 'ever-smiling' hostesses.
So they took their seats, and Ethan opened up Teddy's ridiculously blue laptop, and then, after Zac had ordered Pepsi-Max all round, they looked to Jim to begin the discussion.
"It's odd, you know, Dubai being a Muslim country, but serving alcohol on its flights....", Ethan said, rather incautiously.
"Yes... but we're all drinking Pepsi 'neat', so I think it's best if you drop that subject...", Jim said, not wanting to cause any problems...
 |
| Khonsu... ? |
"So are we all agreed that this 'photo' is in fact our 'friend' Khonsu ?", Jim asked.
They all nodded.
"Well that leaves us with a number of questions....", Jim continued.
 |
| Frank |
Jim then turned to Zac...
"So Zac, what information did you get from Josh ?", Jim asked.
"Well quite a lot.....
But, to begin at the beginning, Frank said the boy just breezed into the Club Athena, 'bold as brass', and asked for a job, saying he had met Mr Jim Johnson in New Mexico.
 |
| Franklin |
Well Frank knew nothing about Jim being in New Mexico, so he checked with Franklin - but you know what Franklin's like, however, Franklin knew that you had been to New Mexico.... but at that moment Brody, after he had surreptitiously photographed the boy, wisely advised Franklin to let Kurt deal with the matter.
 |
| Kurt |
Kurt then 'phoned Josh - and Josh passed the photo to me, so that I could let you know.
Apparently Franklin took the boy's 'phone number, and told the boy to come back in a week - which will be just after we arrive in Los Angeles.
 |
| Khonsu at the Winter Palace |
And there was a brief pause....and then Jim took up the conversation....
"Now...the questions that we have to consider are....how did Khonsu - if that is who he is - get from Germany, in the nineteen twenties, to Las Vegas in the present - and more to the point, why has he come to Las Vegas, and what does he want with us, considering that we 'gave him the brush off', as it were, in Germany.
"Maybe he's just lonely.... or wants the 'kitties' back....", Ethan said.
"Well that might not be so stupid as it sounds...", Jim said.
 |
| Winter Palace - Luxor - Egypt |
"Yes, but what about these 'guardians' that Khonsu talked about when we were in Egypt. ", Zac asked.
"Well,", and Teddy began to explain....
"When we were in Luxor, and Khonsu came to the Winter Palace, he told us that he was something like Faunus, and a 'goody' - like Faunus - and was a representative of what he called the 'Guardians', Teddy explained.
"Yes.... but who are these 'guardians' ?", Zac asked.
At this point Teddy consulted his data-base.
"The 'guardians' may well be the 'Watchers' who are mentioned in ancient Jewish writings, and are referred to as the 'Sons of God'.
There are many, often contradictory, legends about them - and they are often confused with the 'Nephilim'.
 |
| The Guardians or 'Sons of God' |
They are mentioned in a number of writings ascribed to the prophet Enoch.
It is often claimed that the 'Watchers' revealed occult - that is 'hidden' - secrets to mankind, and taught humans not only various creative arts, but also valuable knowledge related to science and technology, agriculture, the use of chemicals, metallurgy, medicine, astrology, astronomy and much more.
In modern times they have also been associated with 'extra-terrestrials'....", Teddy quietly explained.
"And these are the 'Guardians' ?", Zac asked.
"Possibly...", Teddy replied hesitantly.
"So you're not sure...?", Jim queried...
"No...we only have Khonsu's word to go on.....", Teddy answered.
"OK.... so what about this business of the 'guardians' or 'watchers' wanting the human 'space program' to be halted - and our seemingly pointless 'mission to Berlin'.
Was that just another 'game' ?", Zac suggested, rather disparagingly.
"Well I have looked things up, and discovered some information about von Braun...", Teddy began, sheepishly.
"So why didn't you tell us ?", Jim asked.
"I was a bit depressed....", Teddy admitted.
 |
| Universität der Künste - Berlin - Germany |
"OK Teddy, well just take it slowly, and try to tell us...", Ethan said encouragingly.
 |
| Universität der Künste' - Berlin - Germany |
"Well it seems that von Braun was influenced by Ethan, and continued to study music at the 'Universität der Künste' in Berlin, but at the same time he continued his science studies at the 'Technische Hochschule Charlottenburg' in Berlin - as studying in two institutes at the same time was not unusual in Germany and Austria during this period.", Teddy said.
"So...what happened then...", Zac asked.
"Next, the National Socialists came to power.
Now maybe because of Ethan's brief influence, von Braun was not taken with the National Socialists - unlike Dr Brandt - and although he joined the German rocketry program, he began to think of a career in music in the USA in order to escape from the Third Reich.
 |
| Dr. Hermann Oberth |
Some extra information that Teddy didn't pass on to Jim, Ethan and Zac....
Hermann Julius Oberth was born to a Transylvanian (!) family in Hermannstadt, in Austria-Hungary.
Hermann Julius Oberth was born to a Transylvanian (!) family in Hermannstadt, in Austria-Hungary.
 |
| Hermann Oberth - 1901 |
 |
| Jules Verne |
In his youthful experiments, he arrived independently at the concept of the multistage rocket, but he lacked then the resources to pursue his idea on any but a pencil-and-paper level.
After serving on the 'Russian Front' in the 'First World War', Oberth showed designs of a missile using liquid propellant, with a range of 180 miles, to Hermann von Stein, the Prussian Minister of War.
 |
| Frau im Mond - 1901 |
 |
| 'Verein für Raumschiffahrt |
In the late twenties Oberth worked as a scientific consultant on the film, 'Frau im Mond', which was directed and produced by Fritz Lang at the UFA Studios.
In the autumn of 1929, Oberth conducted a static firing of his first liquid-fuelled rocket motor, which he named the Kegeldüse.
Oberth was helped in this experiment by an 18-year-old student Wernher von Braun.
Later von Braun said of Oberth: 'Hermann Oberth was the first, who when thinking about the possibility of spaceships grabbed a slide-rule and presented mathematically analysed concepts and designs. A place of honour should be reserved in the history of science and technology for his ground-breaking contributions in the field of astronautics.'
Oberth moved to Peenemünde, Germany, in 1941 to work on the rocket program, and in September 1943, he was awarded the 'Kriegsverdienstkreuz I Klasse mit Schwertern'.
Surprisingly, Oberth was not indicted for any 'war-crimes'.
After the war, Oberth was a supporter of the 'extra-terrestrial hypothesis' for the origin of UFOs.
Oberth's most cryptic and possibly important comment in his later life was -
In the autumn of 1929, Oberth conducted a static firing of his first liquid-fuelled rocket motor, which he named the Kegeldüse.
Oberth was helped in this experiment by an 18-year-old student Wernher von Braun.
Later von Braun said of Oberth: 'Hermann Oberth was the first, who when thinking about the possibility of spaceships grabbed a slide-rule and presented mathematically analysed concepts and designs. A place of honour should be reserved in the history of science and technology for his ground-breaking contributions in the field of astronautics.'
Oberth moved to Peenemünde, Germany, in 1941 to work on the rocket program, and in September 1943, he was awarded the 'Kriegsverdienstkreuz I Klasse mit Schwertern'.
Surprisingly, Oberth was not indicted for any 'war-crimes'.
After the war, Oberth was a supporter of the 'extra-terrestrial hypothesis' for the origin of UFOs.
Oberth's most cryptic and possibly important comment in his later life was -
'We cannot take the credit for our record advancement in certain scientific fields alone; we have been helped.' When asked by whom, he replied: 'The people of other worlds.'
And so Teddy continued to explain about von Braun."Once comfortably ensconced in the USA, von Braun eventually found work at the 'Walt Disney Studio', writing catchy little tunes for Disney cartoons - little realising that he owed his good fortune to a rather 'dizzy' young Greek slave-boy called Aurarius - whom he knew as 'Ethan Walton' - purportedly a student at the 'Rochester Musicians Academy' who he believed was a young American he had met at the 'Universität der Künste', in Berlin, many years before.
Doubtless von Braun would have been surprised to learn that Ethan had not aged a single day since they had met - and was no music student....but was what ?...well just a very lucky, very rich boy, with a very special, fluffy teddy-bear.
So Teddy continued.....
"But that aside, Von Braun, never lost his fascination with what he would call 'raumflug' - spaceflight.
 |
| Collier's Magazine - Man on the Moon |
In the early 1950s, 'Collier's Magazine', knowing of von Braun's early involvement in rocketry, invited von Braun - as he had been mentored by Oberth - to publish his ideas regarding space exploration.
The articles, illustrated by leading space artists, seemed to accomplish more than any other seriously respected cultural or artistic medium had done in the early 1950s to suggest that the future of space exploration would emerge indebted to both science fiction and science fact.
Collier's attained a circulation of approximately 4 million and these readers were excited by von Braun's vision of the future, but there were already more than 15 million television sets in America by 1952 and von Braun recognised that this change in American culture had the potential to fundamentally reshape American perceptions.
 |
| Von Braun and one of his 'neat' models |
And so Walt Disney approached Von Braun to serve as technical advisor on three space-related television films that Disney was to produce.
Together von Braun and Disney used the new medium of television to illustrate how man might explore space.
As a technical consultant for Disney, von Braun would join Heinz Haber, a German specialist in the emerging field of space medicine, and Willy Ley, a renowned German rocket theorist.
All three had helped to produce the 'Collier's Magazine' series.
Disney personally introduced the first television show, entitled 'Man in Space'.
 |
| 'Frau im Mond' - Fritz Lang |
It was Disney's artists, however, who illustrated the possibilities of space exploration - not always very successfully - while von Braun provided the 'voice-over', with neat little models, and his rather sinister German accent, but he did not provide the music.
 |
| Disney - Man in Space |
'Man and the Moon' soon followed 'Man in Space', and the series ended with a rather over optimistic 'Mars and Beyond'.
'Man and the Moon', of course owed a great deal to 'Frau im Mond' of 1929 - a joint technical project by Lang and Oberth - and maybe also some 'aliens' ? - although almost no one in America had seen the original 'Frau im Mond' film.", Teddy concluded.
"So what you're saying is that, in some kind of way, our 'mission to Berlin' was to some extent successful ?", Jim questioned.
"Well... sort of....", Teddy replied, prevaricating.
"So what do you really mean ?", Zac asked.
"Ah...you humans and your wonky memories....", Teddy began.
"Think back to when you were in Berlin, Ethan, and I gave you some 'strange news'...", Teddy said.
"Well you're always giving me 'strange news', Teddy.", Ethan replied.
"Well come to think of it, you won't remember because I 'switched you off' ...It was when I told Faunus the news." Teddy said.
"You can do that. Teddy ?", Ethan said sounding shocked.
"Come on, just get on with it, Teddy.", Jim said.
Jim was getting tired.
It had been a long day, and he really didn't like flying very much.
"OK...It's the the fact that the 'guardians' were supposedly worried about humans venturing out into space by 'conventional' means - like rockets and such like.
 |
| Dr. James Van Allen |
 |
| 'Van Allen Radiation Belts' - Schematic |
So von Braun didn't head the US space program, but even with Oberth's help, going to the moon for NASA was not possible - and even the Russians couldn't manage it.
But at least von Braun managed to write some nice little tunes for some of the cartoons, which was something - but he still wasn't able to 'loosen up'...", Teddy added.
"Well he was a Prussian - and a junker...so that's not surprising.", Ethan said.
"That's really good, Ethan...you remembered the word 'junker' - and even pronounced it properly.
"Well I'm going back to my seat and have a snooze...", Jim said.
Jim had dozed fitfully - with images of rockets, space stations, weird looking Nazis, equally weird looking images of Khonsu's strange, penetrating blue eyes combined with Disney cartoon characters such as 'Thumper'....
It was all very strange, and Jim was relieved to be woken by the soft, pink light of a new dawn breaking high in the sky....
Jim called for some coffee, and later, after having a bite of breakfast and making sure that he was fully awake, he made his way to the seat that Ethan was sharing with Teddy.
Rather disturbingly, Teddy was avidly watching a Disney cartoon on his mini-DVD player - disturbing because it was 'Bambi', and Bambi was sharing a scene with Thumper.
"Presumably you haven't been asleep....", Jim remarked to Teddy.
"Nope... I think you humans waste a lot of time sleeping...
If you stayed awake, you could get a lot more done - and probably know a lot more by spending all that extra time learning things....", Teddy said.
Jim nodded in agreement, realising that it was pointless disagreeing with Teddy.
"So, if you can get Ethan to wake up, while I go and get Zac, then perhaps we could continue with the discussion we had last night....", Jim suggested.
It took a while, but eventually they all ended up back at the 'on-board bar'...
"So tell us, Teddy, where did we leave off last night ?" Jim asked.
Teddy dutifully opened his blue laptop, and brought up the text file of the minutes of the previous meeting.
"Well, we had been discussing the 'Van Allen Radiation Belts', and the conclusion that it would be impossible for humans to go to the Moon safely with their present technology - so, no surprises there...", Teddy said.
"And you knew this when you were in Berlin - and I was never told...", Zac said, sounding annoyed.
"I did tell Faunus, and that's why we seemed to leave in a hurry...", Teddy said lamely.
"OK...but that doesn't seem to make much sense...", Jim said, sounding exasperated....
"Apparently the USA landed men on the moon sometime in 1969... some time before we arrived here... not that I know much about it." Jim added, and Zac nodded.
"Yes...to be precise - the Americans were supposed to have landed on the twentieth of July in 1969."...Teddy said.
"So what's all this business about the so called 'guardians' not wanting humans to go out into space if they've already done it ?", Zac asked - while Ethan just looked very confused.
"Well that's the problem...and I suppose Khonsu may be the best person the answer that....", Teddy suggested.
"So what can you tell us about these landings on the Moon ? - after all, you said 'supposed to have landed', which seems an odd way to say it.", Jim asked.
"Well that's another problem...", Teddy said nervously.
"And how's that, Teddy...", Ethan asked - not sure of what was really going on.
"Well it's been claimed that some, or all the elements of the 'Apollo' program, and the associated Moon landings were hoaxes staged by 'NASA', possibly with the aid of other organisations.
The most notable claim is that the six crewed landings - 1969 up to 1972 - were faked, and that the twelve famous 'Apollo' astronauts did not actually walk on the Moon.", Teddy began.
"For example, it has been claimed that the technology used to send men to the Moon was lacking at the time, or that the Van Allen Radiation Belts, solar flares, solar wind, coronal mass ejections and cosmic rays made such a trip impossible.", Teddy explained.
Jim and Zac listened - looking both puzzled and surprised....
"So what's this 'nasa-thingy'...? I've never heard of it.", Ethan said.
 |
| Jim's Dream |
Jim called for some coffee, and later, after having a bite of breakfast and making sure that he was fully awake, he made his way to the seat that Ethan was sharing with Teddy.
 |
| Bambi and Thumper |
"Presumably you haven't been asleep....", Jim remarked to Teddy.
"Nope... I think you humans waste a lot of time sleeping...
If you stayed awake, you could get a lot more done - and probably know a lot more by spending all that extra time learning things....", Teddy said.
Jim nodded in agreement, realising that it was pointless disagreeing with Teddy.
"So, if you can get Ethan to wake up, while I go and get Zac, then perhaps we could continue with the discussion we had last night....", Jim suggested.
It took a while, but eventually they all ended up back at the 'on-board bar'...
"So tell us, Teddy, where did we leave off last night ?" Jim asked.
 |
| The Moon |
"Well, we had been discussing the 'Van Allen Radiation Belts', and the conclusion that it would be impossible for humans to go to the Moon safely with their present technology - so, no surprises there...", Teddy said.
"And you knew this when you were in Berlin - and I was never told...", Zac said, sounding annoyed.
"I did tell Faunus, and that's why we seemed to leave in a hurry...", Teddy said lamely.
"OK...but that doesn't seem to make much sense...", Jim said, sounding exasperated....
 |
| Lunar Landing |
"Yes...to be precise - the Americans were supposed to have landed on the twentieth of July in 1969."...Teddy said.
"So what's all this business about the so called 'guardians' not wanting humans to go out into space if they've already done it ?", Zac asked - while Ethan just looked very confused.
"Well that's the problem...and I suppose Khonsu may be the best person the answer that....", Teddy suggested.
"So what can you tell us about these landings on the Moon ? - after all, you said 'supposed to have landed', which seems an odd way to say it.", Jim asked.
"Well that's another problem...", Teddy said nervously.
"And how's that, Teddy...", Ethan asked - not sure of what was really going on.
 |
| NASA Logo |
The most notable claim is that the six crewed landings - 1969 up to 1972 - were faked, and that the twelve famous 'Apollo' astronauts did not actually walk on the Moon.", Teddy began.
"For example, it has been claimed that the technology used to send men to the Moon was lacking at the time, or that the Van Allen Radiation Belts, solar flares, solar wind, coronal mass ejections and cosmic rays made such a trip impossible.", Teddy explained.
Jim and Zac listened - looking both puzzled and surprised....
"So what's this 'nasa-thingy'...? I've never heard of it.", Ethan said.
"NASA is the 'National Aeronautics and Space Administration' - which is part of the government of the USA.", Teddy began to explain.
"While 'NASA' claims to be a civilian organisation - exploring space 'for all mankind', in reality it is closely associated with the US military - 'seeking to 'control space' in order to have military, political and economic control of the earth'.....
 |
| 'Master of Infinity' |
As President Johnson said...'Control of space means control of the world. From space, the 'masters of infinity' would have the power to control the earth’s weather, to cause drought and flood, to change the tides and raise the levels of the sea, to divert the gulf stream and change temperate climates to frigid.'....", Teddy continued.
"Ah...so if these 'guardian-thingys' are 'real' - that would explain why they are worried...", Ethan very succinctly said.
"Yes...and that might put us in a dangerous position.", Jim said.
"And are these 'masters of infinity' the 'guardians' ?", Ethan asked, desperately trying to get everything sorted out in his mind.
"Well I think that Khonsu would like to have us think so...but we're still not sure about our friend Khonsu....", Jim replied.
"Actually, I was never sure about him - but we'll just have to see...", Zac said.
 |
| Franklin |
"Now this is all very interesting, but we have other things to think about when we land.... so what's on the agenda ?", Jim then asked.
"Well I think I should go and get Josh, as he will be needed as soon as we get back...", Zac suggested.
 |
| Club Athena Paradise Hotel - Las Vegas - NV |
So when Josh joined them, it was decided the Josh should arrange a meeting with Franklin the day after they arrived back in Las Vegas, and also inspect the 'Club Athena'.
 |
| 'Club Athena Movie House' - Los Angeles - CA |
This would initially be to assess the overall financial situation.
 |
| Aaron Singing - Paradise Park Theatre |
In addition to the inspection of the of the Group's 'flagship' hotel, it would be necessary for Josh and Franklin organise inspections of the many other hotels, restaurants and clubs in Nevada and California - and, of course, there would be a check on how Aaron was managing at the Paradise Park Theatre, situated in the 'Club Athena Paradise Hotel' in Las Vegas.
 |
| Roy Edward Disney |
Jim then suggested that Ethan be sent to check the three recently acquired and refurbished cinemas in Los Angeles, and review the programs for the upcoming six months, as Jim considered Ethan to be the specialist with regard to movies.
Presumably with Ethan's obsession with Disney cartoon characters, there would also be some meetings with Roy Edward Disney (nephew of Walt), as Ethan was to try to get a monopoly on the exhibition of Disney classics, although what Roy would make of Ethan was difficult to say.
Roy Edward Disney - born January 10, 1930 was a long-time senior executive for the Walt Disney Company, which was founded by his father, Roy Oliver Disney, and his uncle, Walt Disney. Roy E Disney held more than 16 million shares (about 1% of the company), and served as director emeritus for the board of directors.
Zac, of course, on arrival in the US, would begin his survey of security arrangements in the various establishments that the group owned, both in California and Nevada.
 |
| California Combat Club - 'Vegas |
Finally Zac and Jim would make their inspection of the fitness venues in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and the all important 'California Combat Club', (the favourite of the late 'Boss'), situated in 'Vegas.
 |
| Part of the Library - Club Athena - California |
Glen, on the other hand would be staying with Novius at the 'Villa Athena'.
More than anyone - even Ethan - Glen needed an education, and time with Novius, who had an encyclopaedic knowledge of almost everything, and was an ideal tutor.
Teddy, of course, was even more knowledgeable than Novius, but was not, in any way, as wise as Novius for, as has been explained before, Faunus had designed Teddy's personality to be appealing to a young person - so probably Teddy would never be truly wise - but remain, like Peter Pan, always young - in some ways a bit like Ethan, which is why they both 'hit it off' so well.....
 |
| Emirates First Class Lunch |
"And what about Max ?", Ethan asked.
"Well I can't really send him back to being a bellhop and an elevator boy, but I thought I might get Franklin to train him up to be Aaron's 'manager' - not in the financial sense, but rather as someone to organise things, and be on hand.... I think they might go well together.", Jim suggested.
So at that point everything had been organised....and so they all went back to their seats to either watch the in-flight entertainment or doze and wait for the cabin crew to serve lunch....
Jim was very aware that their long absence from 'Vegas could have caused problems, and while a change of scenery and locale had been very enjoyable, in retrospect it seemed that very little had actually been achieved.
Franklin, of course, had repeatedly reassured Jim, by encoded email, that all was well, and that the 'corporation' was gradually and systematically taking over all the high profile venues in the South West, while at the same time Franklin was assiduously investing most the 'corporation's' considerable profits so that the net worth of the 'corporation' was reaching phenomenal heights.
So Jim was a very rich young man.... and sharing his wealth with his loyal companions, but as has been said before, that wealth had very little meaning for Jim.
Unlike many others in similar positions - young 'media-stars', or the offspring of the very rich, he had no desire for fame or publicity.
In 'Vegas and Los Angeles Jim was veritably unknown, and his name or his image never appeared in the media.
 |
| Emblem of the Roman Republic and Empire |
 |
| Seal of the United States |
He could walk down any street in America and simply be taken for a well-dressed young man.
But then Jim had learned the necessity for maintaining his privacy from a very long time before - learning, from the advice and example of his 'dominus', of the deadly machinations and the deadly repercussions of a 'Republic and Empire' not too dissimilar to the American 'Republic and Empire' in which he found himself living.
After finishing his lunch, Jim wandered back into the 'on-board' bar, simply wishing that the flight would end, and found Ethan and Teddy - probably feeling the same way.
 |
| Elevator - Club Athena |
"You know, Jim, if we ever have to travel to anywhere a long way away - then I think we should use the elevator at the 'Club Athena' - that is if it will take us to other places..." Ethan said.
"Well I suppose that's up to Faunus...", Jim replied.
"The problem is...", Teddy interjected, "that if there are no stamps in your passport, or visas, then if there is any problem with the authorities, there could be trouble."
"Well I don't see why that should be a problem - after all, I'm sure that Faunus could organise stamped passports and visas - even if he has to do his weird 'hypnotism-thingy'.", Ethan said.
"That's probably true, but let's just get back home before we start thinking about going anywhere else..", Jim said.
"So...to change the subject.... Teddy..., what was all that business about the Americans not landing on the moon ?", Ethan asked, trying to be diplomatic, and not annoy Jim.
 |
| NASA Logo |
"Well it's complicated, Ethan...", Teddy began.
"...'thought it might be..", Ethan said grumpily.
"You see, it's all a matter of evidence... and much of it is conflicting." Teddy said.
"So ?", Ethan responded - probably not really understanding what Teddy was implying.
"Well it's not like you can just go to the Moon and look for 'Lunar Landers' and footprints...". Teddy said.
"...bet Faunus could..", Ethan retorted.
"Probably...", Teddy replied.
"There are, however, serious problems with the photographs and videos which were purportedly taken on the moon.
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| LEM - Lunar Exploration Module |
When NASA was asked about this they stated, in a filmed interview, that it was just 'nit-picking', and not worth being concerned about as this all happened some considerable time ago.
Not really a very satisfactory explanation.
Such responses have resulted in some critics of NASA suggesting that the acronym NASA stands for 'never a straight answer'.", Teddy explained.
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| LEM Onboard Computer |
"And of course there is the dispute about radiation.... but probably the most serious problem is how the astronauts landed on the Moon in what was effectively an almost 'paper-thin' aluminium 'box', with the lower part covered in crinkly gold tinfoil, using computers with less processing power than your digital watch - and in fact the onboard computer in the LEM performed at the level of a 'Commodore 64' or 'ZX Spectrum' !
And this occurred, after years repeated failed rocket launches by NASA, with a series of perfect 'Apollo' missions - apart from Apollo Thirteen, which had a 'problem' on the thirteenth of April - which many have suggested was 'suspect', as thirteen in Western culture is considered to be an 'unlucky' number.
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| Lunar Rover - Apollo 17 |
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| Apollo 17 Logo |
But then there were were four more 'landings', culminating in Apollo Seventeen.
And of course, oddly enough, there is a connection between Jim and 'Apollo'.
Perhaps the strangest question raised by the Apollo series of manned moon landings was the fact that after these apparently successful events, NASA, almost without warning, cancelled the program, and apparently lost all interest in continuing to visit the Moon.
In addition, after the Americans landed on the Moon, the Russians completely gave up, and ended their own projects for manned missions to the moon.", Teddy explained.
"Mm...that's all very strange - and it makes me wonder even more about what Khonsu told us about these 'guardian-thingys'...", Ethan said.
At that point an ever-smiling hostess arrived with coffee, presumably wondering who Ethan was talking to....
The coffee was a prelude to their arrival at Los Angeles, and a little message stating that fact popped up on the digital screen which had previously been showing some rather boring movies.
"So Teddy, it looks like we'll soon be home...", Ethan said.
"Certainly, Ethan, as long as we don't crash on landing..," Teddy said gloomily.
"Now don't tell me you're still depressed...", Ethan said.
 |
| Landing at Los Angeles - California - USA |
"Not at all - but facts must be faced - the landing is the most dangerous part of the flight.", Teddy replied.
"Thanks a bundle for that,,", Ethan said.
But the landing was safe....
 |
| Terminal Building - Los Angeles Airport - California - USA |
Then it was just a question of 'deplaning' (a strange 'Americanism' - but perhaps suited to leaving an aircraft in Los Angeles), and passing through customs and passport control.
"Now this is more like an airport !", Max said approvingly, obviously relieved to be back in the 'good old 'US of A'..."
And as everyone was an American Citizen (?) there were no problems, and then it was a matter of locating Chuck (in case you've forgotten, Chuck was their favourite driver).
And of course Chuck was there, and had already rounded up some guys to help them with the luggage, while Zac checked that nothing had been left behind.
"Of course...I'd forgotten it's night-time..." Ethan said, as the stepped out of the terminal.
And so they went to where two massive black Cadillacs were parked.
By the first stood Faunus, neatly attired in a black suite, white shirt and tie, looking for all the world like one of those creepy 'men in black', except that Faunus, whatever 'game' he was playing, never seemed to be 'creepy'.
In popular culture and conspiracy theories, men in black (MIB) are supposed men dressed in black suits who claim to be quasi-government agents who harass, and threaten witnesses to keep them quiet about what they have seen. It is sometimes implied that they may be 'aliens' themselves. The term is also frequently used to describe mysterious men working for unknown organisations, as well as various branches of government allegedly designed to protect secrets or perform other strange activities. The term is generic, used for any unusual, threatening or strangely behaved individual whose appearance on the scene can be linked in some fashion with sightings of 'aliens'.
"So you finally got 'home'....", Faunus said with a decorous smile.
"Yes Faunus, and I suppose you're going to be our lead chauffeur ?", Jim replied.
"Of course..."
And so Jim, Ethan, Teddy and Zac, who ended up with Teddy on his knee, climbed into the first limo, while much of the luggage was loaded into the trunk.
 |
| The Streets of Los Angeles - California - USA |
The others used the second limo, which was loaded with the rest of the luggage.
Somehow Faunus seemed to know all the side roads and shortcuts, and soon had them heading out to 'Villa Athena', standing in its artificially verdant parkland.
The two limos parked up at the main entrance to the villa, where Novius, and his new favourite, Pedro, who now held the exalted rank of 'Amo de la Casa', were waiting for them.
"My Boy ! ... and Petronius, 'Adonios', and 'Aurarius'.... I am so pleased to see you all !", Novius said effusively.
Novius, of course, always thought of them from their time back in the Sinus Neapolitan - long, long before any of their later adventures.
(my 'Boy' was Jim, 'Petronius' was Zac, 'Aurarius' Ethan, and 'Adonios' was Josh).
Teddy was annoyed that he had been left out, but then he wasn't part of their shared past - in the same way that Max and Glen sometimes felt a little excluded.
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| The Villa Athena |
"So, come and have a nice supper with me...", Novius suggested.
"Well nothing too heavy, after all we're all very tired after such a long flight....but if you insist ..", Jim said.
"Well I couldn't just let you go straight to bed without you telling me something about your trip..", Novius said, as he told Pedro to organise the servants to take all the luggage to the appropriate rooms.
And so they all sat down to their first meal 'back home'.
"Now I very much wanted to be with you - but perhaps another time - but what interests me now is if any of my attempts to help you understand about Egypt were of any help to you ?", Novius modestly asked.
"Very much, Sir..", Josh instantly replied.
Josh was not in the habit of calling Novius 'Sir' - but since his trip to Egypt he had begun to realise that Novius was remarkably knowledgeable.
"And all that business about Edfu....well we actually visited Edfu Temple - and it was just as mysterious as you said it would be...", Ethan added.
"And you saw the pyramids ?", Novius asked.
"Not only did we see them, we went inside some of them...", Zac explained.
"And Teddy actually reminded us of what you had said about the Great Pyramid, as he had recorded all your comments.", Jim added.
"Well I'm very flattered...thank you Teddy....", Novius responded, remembering that Teddy could be very formal and easily offended.
"It is my job...", Teddy said.
"And yo saw the Sphinx ?", Novius asked.
"Oh yes, and the Sphinx Temple and the 'Valley Temple'...", Max replied, showing that he had remembered - equally well - about all the places that they had visited.
"And the other pyramids - did you see any of them ?", Novius asked enthusiastically.
"Yes...there was this small one - apparently for this Pharaoh called Unas.
There wasn't much left of it from the outside, but inside were these masses of hieroglyphics, called the 'Pyramid Texts', all about the Egyptian's ideas about the after-life.", Glen explained.
Those 'Pyramid Texts' had obviously had an impact on Glen as they were also in the 'pyramid ship' at Chaco Canyon, where they had their strange meeting with 'Upuaut'.
"And did you manage to get to Abydos ?", Novius then asked.
"As it happened we did...on the way back from Aswan.", Josh said.
"And you visited the Temple of Seti - with the 'King List' I told you about ?" Novius continued.
"Yes...and a Temple made of really big blocks of stone, and partly filled with this funny, greeny coloured water...", Max said.
"He means the 'Osireion'...", Ethan added, wanting to sound very knowledge.
"Now that is a very strange and interesting temple, and one of the very oldest in Egypt - and very mysterious..." Novius said.
"And we also saw Isis...", Ethan said, almost casually.
"And where was this sculpture of Isis ?", Novius asked.
"Oh - it wasn't a sculpture, or a wall painting - it really was Isis... in her Temple at Aswan", Ethan insisted.
Novius looked to Jim, as if for confirmation.
"Apparently it was Isis, and Faunus and Glaux were with her.", Jim said in confirmation
"And she spoke to 'Marcos' - and said something about him and Apollo - and she spoke to each one of us by name - including Glaux and the 'kitties'...", Ethan said breathlessly.
"Well, from the first time I saw Marcus, and he was younger then, I knew that he was 'special' - and after the 'Oracle at Cumae' had given the prophecy, it was obvious that he was 'beloved and favoured of the gods' - and that is obviously why you were permitted to see the great Isis - because Marcus - or Jim as you call him - was with you...
If only I had been there !", Novius said wistfully.
"But you need to carefully remember what she said to each of you, and we can talk about it tomorrow.", Novius added
"Well anyway, perhaps another time you may be able to see her yourself, as we now have an easy and quick way to get from 'Vegas to Luxor....", Ethan said.
"Well that would be wonderful, Ethan..." Novius replied.
"And Novius, there was something else...", Ethan said.
"Well, we went to Armant...", Glen said.
"Now if I remember rightly there is a Temple at Armant to the god Montu - but there is not much to see there.", Novius said, once again demonstrating his amazing knowledge of ancient Egyptian antiquities and religion.
"Quite right, but we saw something very strange at Armant.", Josh said,
"And what was that....?, Novius asked, puzzled.
"It was the 'Great Pyramid'...", Ethan said.
"But the 'Great Pyramid's' at Giza....you mentioned it before, and said that you'd been inside it..", Novius said, sounding confused.
"Yes.. but this was an exact copy of the 'Great Pyramid' - and as it had been when it was first built.", Josh said.
Novius said nothing, but simply shook his head and looked to Jim.
"I think this was connected to the 'message' that Glen got - the message that was possibly responsible for this whole trip to Egypt.", Jim said - in some way of an explanation.
"So what did you do about this 'replica' of the 'Great Pyramid' at Armant ?", Novius asked.
"Well at first Josh and I tried to take photos of it - but it didn't show up.
The pictures simply showed the sand-dunes but no pyramid or temple.", Ethan explained.
"So we went back to our boat in order to ask Faunus about it...but Faunus wasn't saying, and Teddy came up with some strange theories about Plato and sarcophagi and things - which I didn't really understand.
Faunus then decide to go back to Armant, and the 'pyramid-thingy' that evening - and go inside, which was spooky, as a storm was brewing - just like when we were at Chaco Canyon.", Ethan added.
"But it wasn't like the Pyramid at Giza on the inside...", Josh said.
"What was inside the Armant Pyramid was a sarcophagus which Faunus insisted that Max and Glen 'try out for size'..." Josh then said.
"It was at this point that my scanner registered that the Egyptian Police was in Armant, and I suggested that it might be safer if we left...", Teddy added.
"So we made our escape, in the middle of a really bad storm, with thunder and lightning, and the funny little 'temple-thingy' disappeared into the sand, like quicksand - and the Pyramid took off, if you can believe it, just like at Chaco Canyon.... All very weird...", Ethan said.
"And all this really happened ?", Novius asked.
"Yes, Novius...it really happened - and there's lots more to tell, and I'm sure that Faunus will explain what it was all really about when he finally shows up..", Jim said.
"Well he was here just a day ago, and he left me with two beautiful black kittens - they're asleep on the bed in your room at the moment - and he also brought Glaux, but as you will imagine, Glaux is out hunting right now..", Novius said.
"Well I think now is a good time to retire for the night, so tomorrow, before we return to 'Vegas, we will have plenty of time to talk more about the trip, and hopefully Faunus will arrive." Jim said in conclusion.
And so they all sat down to their first meal 'back home'.
"Now I very much wanted to be with you - but perhaps another time - but what interests me now is if any of my attempts to help you understand about Egypt were of any help to you ?", Novius modestly asked.
 |
| Edfu Temple - Sanctuary |
Josh was not in the habit of calling Novius 'Sir' - but since his trip to Egypt he had begun to realise that Novius was remarkably knowledgeable.
"And all that business about Edfu....well we actually visited Edfu Temple - and it was just as mysterious as you said it would be...", Ethan added.
"And you saw the pyramids ?", Novius asked.
"Not only did we see them, we went inside some of them...", Zac explained.
 |
| The Sphinx and Pyramid |
"Well I'm very flattered...thank you Teddy....", Novius responded, remembering that Teddy could be very formal and easily offended.
"It is my job...", Teddy said.
"And yo saw the Sphinx ?", Novius asked.
"Oh yes, and the Sphinx Temple and the 'Valley Temple'...", Max replied, showing that he had remembered - equally well - about all the places that they had visited.
"And the other pyramids - did you see any of them ?", Novius asked enthusiastically.
 |
| Causway and Pyramid of Unas |
 |
| Pyramid Texts |
There wasn't much left of it from the outside, but inside were these masses of hieroglyphics, called the 'Pyramid Texts', all about the Egyptian's ideas about the after-life.", Glen explained.
Those 'Pyramid Texts' had obviously had an impact on Glen as they were also in the 'pyramid ship' at Chaco Canyon, where they had their strange meeting with 'Upuaut'.
"And did you manage to get to Abydos ?", Novius then asked.
"As it happened we did...on the way back from Aswan.", Josh said.
"And you visited the Temple of Seti - with the 'King List' I told you about ?" Novius continued.
 |
| The 'Osireion' - Abydos |
"He means the 'Osireion'...", Ethan added, wanting to sound very knowledge.
"Now that is a very strange and interesting temple, and one of the very oldest in Egypt - and very mysterious..." Novius said.
"And we also saw Isis...", Ethan said, almost casually.
"And where was this sculpture of Isis ?", Novius asked.
"Oh - it wasn't a sculpture, or a wall painting - it really was Isis... in her Temple at Aswan", Ethan insisted.
Novius looked to Jim, as if for confirmation.
"Apparently it was Isis, and Faunus and Glaux were with her.", Jim said in confirmation
 |
| Isis at Aswan |
"Well, from the first time I saw Marcus, and he was younger then, I knew that he was 'special' - and after the 'Oracle at Cumae' had given the prophecy, it was obvious that he was 'beloved and favoured of the gods' - and that is obviously why you were permitted to see the great Isis - because Marcus - or Jim as you call him - was with you...
If only I had been there !", Novius said wistfully.
"But you need to carefully remember what she said to each of you, and we can talk about it tomorrow.", Novius added
"Well anyway, perhaps another time you may be able to see her yourself, as we now have an easy and quick way to get from 'Vegas to Luxor....", Ethan said.
"Well that would be wonderful, Ethan..." Novius replied.
"And Novius, there was something else...", Ethan said.
"Well, we went to Armant...", Glen said.
 |
| Pyramid at Armant - Upper Egypt |
"Quite right, but we saw something very strange at Armant.", Josh said,
"And what was that....?, Novius asked, puzzled.
"It was the 'Great Pyramid'...", Ethan said.
"But the 'Great Pyramid's' at Giza....you mentioned it before, and said that you'd been inside it..", Novius said, sounding confused.
"Yes.. but this was an exact copy of the 'Great Pyramid' - and as it had been when it was first built.", Josh said.
"I think this was connected to the 'message' that Glen got - the message that was possibly responsible for this whole trip to Egypt.", Jim said - in some way of an explanation.
"So what did you do about this 'replica' of the 'Great Pyramid' at Armant ?", Novius asked.
"Well at first Josh and I tried to take photos of it - but it didn't show up.
 |
| Inside the Armant Pyramid - Upper Egypt |
"So we went back to our boat in order to ask Faunus about it...but Faunus wasn't saying, and Teddy came up with some strange theories about Plato and sarcophagi and things - which I didn't really understand.
Faunus then decide to go back to Armant, and the 'pyramid-thingy' that evening - and go inside, which was spooky, as a storm was brewing - just like when we were at Chaco Canyon.", Ethan added.
 |
| Ethan and Teddy with the Sarcophagus |
"What was inside the Armant Pyramid was a sarcophagus which Faunus insisted that Max and Glen 'try out for size'..." Josh then said.
"It was at this point that my scanner registered that the Egyptian Police was in Armant, and I suggested that it might be safer if we left...", Teddy added.
"So we made our escape, in the middle of a really bad storm, with thunder and lightning, and the funny little 'temple-thingy' disappeared into the sand, like quicksand - and the Pyramid took off, if you can believe it, just like at Chaco Canyon.... All very weird...", Ethan said."And all this really happened ?", Novius asked.
"Yes, Novius...it really happened - and there's lots more to tell, and I'm sure that Faunus will explain what it was all really about when he finally shows up..", Jim said.
"Well he was here just a day ago, and he left me with two beautiful black kittens - they're asleep on the bed in your room at the moment - and he also brought Glaux, but as you will imagine, Glaux is out hunting right now..", Novius said.
"Well I think now is a good time to retire for the night, so tomorrow, before we return to 'Vegas, we will have plenty of time to talk more about the trip, and hopefully Faunus will arrive." Jim said in conclusion.
Jim, Ethan and Teddy are reunited with the kittens Bastet and Sekhmet, and the following morning Josh meets up with Glaux, while Faunus arrives at the Villa Athena. After a morning of discussion Jim and his companions return to 'Vegas to 'take care of business'.
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2021
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2021
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 202