Ethan and Max return to the 'Club Athena' to meet with the pipe organ builders, who have drawings of the pipe organ for the 'Park Theater' - and an architect presents plans for the 'Athena Corporation Repository' in Henderson - and Ethan's 'designer-guy-thingys' also arrive for Jim to approve of the possible images for the new 'Combat Club' brochure
ADULT MATERIAL - PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL INDIVIDUALS (EXCLUDING 'TEDDY') FEATURED IN THIS CHAPTER WERE OVER THE AGE OF TWENTY ONE YEARS AT THE TIME THAT THE ORIGINAL IMAGES AND TEXT WERE PRODUCED
It was the 'photo-shoot' for the new brochure - during which Paco, the 'new boy' at the 'Club' had been 'hazed'.
 |
| Paco Entangled in the Ropes |
Paco was struggling on the ropes, moaning, and pulling at the pouch of his skimpy trunks to try and relieve th pressure, and obviously in some considerable pain.
Blake, who was new to Ethan, but had been wrestling for the 'Club' for some time, went over to speak to Ethan and Max.
"..'hope you liked the 'fight' - and I hope Adam got some good pics for that brochure of yours.", Blake said, somewhat nonchalantly - seeming to completely ignore his struggling opponent who he had simply left on the ropes.
Kurt, however, concerned that the new boy might be really injured, called for Mikey and Tripp to untangle Paco, and take him to Dr Lockwood.
"Well, it was a bit rough, Blake - but we'll see how you manage in a real fight in front of a real audience...", Ethan said coldly.
It was obvious that Blake had slightly overstepped the mark with his new 'boss', and he looked a little abashed.
"Of course, Sir, I always do my best for the 'Club'...", Blake replied.
"I do hope so...", Ethan responded.
Ethan then wen to collect Teddy from Kurt's office.
Teddy was sitting on Kurt's desk - a perfect image of a stuffed fluffy toy, but this was only because he had switched himself off (actually in 'stand by' mode).
"Come on, Teddy, time to go... we've been here quite long enough.", Ethan said brightly.
"It's all over then ? - this stupid wrestling nonsense...", Teddy said, obviously sulking.
And to a teddy-bear it was 'stupid nonsense', near enough - with Paco lying on the canvass - apparently unable to walk - while Mikey bringing Dr. Lockwood to the stricken young wrestler..
Teddy continued to moan...
"I don't know what you see in it...
Boys wearing next to nothing, pulling themselves around in a roped-in-square-thing - and it seems that some people think it's 'exciting'... if you take my meaning.
And what's this thing about 'knees' - are they indecent, so they have to be covered up ?", Teddy
said disapprovingly.
"Well forget about that - we're now going to see Jim - and I know how much you like Jim.", Ethan said - not very convincingly.
"OK - if you insist.", Teddy mumbled...
 |
| Paco on the Canvass |
 |
| Chuck and the Limo - California Combat Club |
So Max called Chuck, and by the time they had said their farewells to various individuals at the 'Combat Club', Chuck was waiting with their limo at the main entrance.
It was a relatively short Drive from the 'Combat Club' to the 'Club Athena' - and soon smart young bellhops were opening the door for Ethan and Teddy and Max to exit the huge limousine.
Because the casino at the 'Club Athena' was small and exclusive, and was mainly frequented by 'high rollers', and also the restaurant was phenomenally expensive - the 'Club' was, a usual, quiet.
A 'high roller' is a gambler who consistently wagers large amounts of money. 'High rollers' often receive lavish 'comps' from casinos to lure them onto the gambling floors, such as free private jet transfers, limousine use and use of the casinos' best suites. Casinos may also extend credit to a player to continue betting, and salaries of employees may also contain incentive arrangements to bring in 'high rollers'. This also applies to the 'California Combat Club', where semi-illegal gambling takes place.
 |
| Police Chief Eckart |
Fortunately, as far as Ethan and Teddy were concerned, Emma, Jim's secretary, who Ethan found even more alarming late at night - (Ethan was convinced that she was an android) - had gone home to bed - and probably Chief Eckart's bed... the Police Chief responsible for Clark County.
Zac had carefully arranged for Emma and Eckart to become 'an item' - and Emma was only one of the many perks that Eckart received, including those thick, white envelopes, which enabled various forms of gambling to take place at the 'Athena Corporation's' many establishments without any police interference.
Emma, not being really bright, also provided Eckart with a certain amount of disinformation, which was definitely in the Corporation's interests.
 |
| Club Athena Lobby Receptionists |
So one of the lobby receptionists took Ethan and Teddy and Max to the executive elevator - dutifully allowed Teddy to operate the buttons, and gave a nice firm knock on the door to Jim's office.
Ethan and Teddy and Max entered, without a ridiculous, unnecessary introduction, and were greeted by Jim, who was obviously very pleased to see them.
"So how did the 'photo-shoot' go ?", Jim asked.
"Very well - although young Paco got a bit of a beating - but Dr. Lockwood says he'll be OK after a good rest an a few jabs for the pain and the bruising."
And Max - what did you think ?", Jim asked.
It was more violent and 'macho' than I expected - but I suppose that's what the 'punters' pay to see...", Max replied.
"Just what I think - stupid and pointlessly violent", Teddy, who was sitting on Jim's desk, interjected.
"Well perhaps Ethan and I are a bit more 'accustomed' to that sort of thing.", Jim said, without giving too much away.
"Indeedy...", Ethan agreed in his own inimitable manner.
"So - you have the digital images with you ?", Jim asked.
"Of course - straight from Adam's camera' and Kurt's laptop' to you...", Ethan said.
(Most digital material, within the 'Athena Corporation', was handled physically rather than sent via electronic mans, for security reasons.)
 |
| Thumper - 'Bambi' 1942 |
"So - let's have a look..", Jim said, as he waited for the images to be loaded onto his lap-top.
Ethan sat twiddling his thumbs, while Teddy surreptitiously scanned all the documents on Jim's desk while Jim scrolled through the images.
"Watch'a think, Jim ?", Ethan finally asked in his 'Thumper' voice - a voice that really suited him far too well..
'Thumper' is a fictional rabbit from Disney's animated film 'Bambi', released in 1942. In the film Thumper's voice was provided by Peter Behn, who at the time was only four years old - which may say something about Ethan - who can mimic Thumper's voice perfectly. 'Thumper' is Ethan's favorite Disney character.
"I think most of them are really good, although some will need a bit of tidying up - but then Adam's a good photographer - and I know it's difficult when you are shooting fast moving subjects
 |
| Paco and Blake |
Now I'm thinking of a cover image - as you know first impressions count.", Jim carefully replied
"You're correct Jim...
'The image on the cover of a brochure, or any advertising material, should be clear and concise.
It should state, in an easily undertook manner, the subject being presented in an as attractive a way as is possible, but honestly and correctly, with no unnecessary exaggeration'....", Teddy carefully and annoyingly explained.
"Thank you Teddy -
Well as it happens I have found one image that may fit th bill...". and Jim showed them the image on his laptop.
Ethan looked carefully.
"Yes - it's certainly dramatic...". Ethan commented, as he studied the image.
"So what do you think of this new boy, Paco ?", Jim asked.
Well, he's not much of a wrestler, but he looks good - and seems to be able to take a lot of punishment.", Max said.
Jim leaned back in his chair, and swiveled the lap-top round so he was looking at the images of Paco...
"OK - so what we need to do is to get Kurt and Johnathan to work on his to improve his technique - after all he's got the muscle - the strength.
 |
| Jonathan |
"Sound good to me...", Ethan replied.
"Right, then you pass that instruction on to Kurt tomorrow - and do it in person, as I want you to go to the 'Combat Club' and check up on Paco and see that he's OK, and give him this from me - for 'work well done'.", Jim said, taking a bulky white envelope from a drawer in his desk, which he gave to Ethan.
"And tomorrow morning we have a meeting with your designers about the pipe organ for the 'Park Theater', and a further talk about the brochure - we need to get things moving.", Jim added.
 |
| A Backstreet in Paradise |
A little way off, in a dark alley in 'Paradise', a clandestine meeting occurred between Agent Gordy and Caleb.
"My 'boss' would like to see you the day after tomorrow - and he wants you to arrange a visit for him to the 'Combat Club'.
"Is that a good idea, ?", Caleb asked nervously.
Well he's got a 'Platinum Card' for the 'Club', so he should be able to attend incognito - and he's hoping that you might be wrestling that night...
then afterwards he wants you to go back to his suite at the 'Athena Park' - for some more questions, and whatever else you two get up to...", Gordy explained.
"OK - but tell your 'boss' to be discreet - I don't want any trouble with Kurt !", Caleb added.
"There won't be.`
And I can tell you you're onto a real good thing with my 'boss' - money-wise - if you play your cards right", Gordy said reassuringly.
"We'll talk about it more over lunch at MacDonald's tomorrow lunch time - OK ?", Gordy said quietly.
Caleb agreed, and they departed - Caleb taking a taxi to the 'Penthouse Building' in Summerlin.
Meanwhile, Ethan and Teddy and Max arrived back at the 'Penthouse Building - but not at the same time as Caleb, which was probably just as well for Caleb.
 |
| 'Penthouse Building' - Night |
"Yes thank you, Clare - very busy - as usual.", Ethan replied like a harassed husband.
"And what about Jim - is he working late, again ?", Clare asked.
"Just for a while - he's got to select some suitable photos for this new brochure.", Ethan replied.
"And that's to do with this next concert ?", Clare innocently asked.
"Yes - but he shouldn't be long, so you could order us something to eat - if that's OK.", Ethan said.
"Of course...",Clare replied as she got out her cell-phone...
Now although Clare knew about the 'Combat Club', and knew Brody and Jonathan well, 'Club' matters were never discussed in her presence, and she had never visited the 'Combat Club' - and that was an old hangover from the boys' 'Roman past' - a custom derived from the saying 'Caesar's wife must be above suspicion' - and in this case meaning that females, and children, should be shielded from anything not quite 'respectable'.
Clare, however is not Caesar's wife - or more precisely, Jim's wife.
Clare is Jim's devoted 'house-keeper', and was originally Ethan's house-keeper, as Ethan arrived in Las Vegas before Jim.
But - back to our story...
Clare is not a cook, and so only provides the 'boys' with snacks - sandwiches, tea and coffee, Pepsi and of course cheeseburgers for Ethan,
When full meals are required, she orders them from the kitchens of the 'Club Athena', which are close by, also in Summerlin.
And that is what happens when Jim arrives later in the evening, and Jim, Ethan and Max have an excellent supper before retiring for the night.
Later... in the master bedroom, after Max had returned to his own apartment....
"Now tomorrow is a big day...", Jim began, as Ethan settled Teddy down with his cushions for the night. "We have to sort out these images for your designer guys to make up into a brochure, and then the architects are going to show us the new building project, and the organ builders are going to show us their proposals for the pipe organ to be installed in the 'Park Theater'...", Jim explained.
And what's this new building-project-thingy ?", Ethan asked.
"Oh it's a land acquisition in Henderson that I've undertaken personally, on behalf of the 'Athena Corporation'.", Jim replied.
Ethan was non the wiser - and decided to await the actual meeting - when things might become clearer.
And so to bed...
It was morning - warm and sunny.
 |
| Penthouse Dining-room - Morning |
"So what's going on today ?", Teddy asked.
"Probably quite a lot, but perhaps we should let it be a surprise...", Jim said smiling.
And so Chuck was called, and their big black limo made its way to the 'Club Athena' - where, as usual, Emma was waiting for them.
"So - who do we have to see us this morning, Emma ?", Jim asked.
Jim's politeness was somewhat forced, as by this time he had begun to agree with Ethan that there was something very strange about Emma - but he didn't want to let her go, as she was useful with regard to Police Chief Eckart in Henderson.
"Well, Sir, we have an architect and some of his associates - although I'm not really sure why they are here...", Emma said quizzically.
"Also some people about a pipe organ...
And some designers who want to talk about a brochure.", Emma added.
"Yes - show the Architect in first...", Jim said.
And so Jim, Ethan and Teddy and Max entered Jim's office, and waited for Emma to make her rather formal introduction regarding the architect.
Jim then told Emma to leave the office as this particular matter was highly confidential.
 |
| Jim's Desk - Club Athena - Summerlin |
"I am pleased to inform you, that Mr Franklin Black has informed us, that all the formalities and financial arrangements regarding the acquisition of land at 'Water Street', in Henderson, Nevada have been satisfactorily completed - and so 'ground can be broken', and construction can commence, once we have your written approval."
The architect then placed plans and drawings on Jim's large black marble topped desk for his scrutiny, and hopefully his approval.
"So what's this all about, Jim ?", Ethan asked.
"It's a new sort of headquarters for the Corporation - but not for us to use, but rather for our projected computer systems, information storage, and assets storage.
There will also be extensive office accommodation, printing facilities and research and development facilities for Tony.", Jim began.
"OK - but why build it in Henderson ?", Ethan asked.
"Well... Henderson is quite close to Summerlin, and is in a good general location, right next to McCarren International, and Interstate highways.
The crime rate is low, and the educational, medical and health facilities are excellent.
In addition, the population is, by and large, middle class and well educated, and so would make a reliable and well qualified work force for us.", Jim explained.
"So you're not stupid, are you - getting first 'Sigi' and then Glen to live there...", Ethan said, obviously impressed.
 |
| Digital Representation of the Planned 'Athena Corporation Repository' - Henderson |
"Here - take a look...", Jim said, spreading out the plans and drawings.
"Well the plans and things don't mean much to me - but this drawing is interesting...", Ethan said.
"Yes Sir, that's a digital rendering of the building as it will look when completed.", the architect said.
"Gee - it's a bit grim looking, Jim.", Ethan said as he examined the digital rendering closely.
'Well it's a work place - and also a place for keeping valuable things - but I don't want to go into details...", Jim said, casting a look at the rather hapless architect, who obviously didn't understand what was being discussed.
Jim then signed the papers authorizing construction, and then Max took the bemused architect and his two assistants to the door.
Once they were alone Ethan started questioning Jim.
"So - the 'valuable thingys' are the sarcophagus, and the gold, silver and other stuff from Egypt and Mexico ?", Ethan suggested.
"Yes, that's just a little - but also I am hoping to store our heritage there - the knowledge, science and art of our world - what's left of it - and also what we can restore, and create again...", Jim said.
Max didn't really understand - but Ethan had his suspicions that Jim had always harboured such dreams...
"OK...", Ethan said, content with Jim's explanation so far - a presuming that more would be revealed in the future.
"So Max, ask Emma to send in the people who are dealing with the 'Park Theater' project.", Jim said.
The people from the organ building company entered Jim's office.
They too had drawings and plans and lists of specifications that neither Jim or Ethan or Max really understood (Teddy did - but he was switched to 'fluffy toy' mode, and was not allowed to say anything).
The people from the organ building company addressed themselves to Ethan, not having met Jim before - but that didn't bother Jim, as the pipe organ was really Ethan's idea right from the start.
"Yes - but what will it look like ?", Ethan insisted, after they had baffled him with endless 'pipe organ' specifications.
 |
| Proposed Pipe Organ - 'Park Theater' - Paradise - Las Vegas |
"Ooo ! - that's more like it !", Ethan enthused -
"But I do hope it's not in black and white.", Ethan added.
"Of course not sir... the pipes will be any color you want.
The pipes are made of a lead alloy - with the addition of other metals, in order to bring out the required timbre.", the organ builder guy began.
"Excuse me, but I haven't got any idea of what your talking about...
I want the pipes silver, so that they will reflect any color that is used to light them...
Can you do that ?", Ethan replied, getting somewhat exasperated.
Ethan had never imagined that buying a pipe organ would be such a problem...
"Yes Sir - we can color them silver - or even silver plate them - but plating would be extremely expensive.", the organ builder guy replied, getting worried that he might lose the contract.
"OK - silver plate them - and do it quickly - I've got a concert coming up soon, and I want this thing working...
Oh, and here's a little something to encourage you to get it done quickly - and the same again if it's done before time - and there's also an invitation to the concert..", Ethan said, handing the very nervous organ builder guy a very thick white envelope.
 |
| Roman Emperor Vespasian and Caenis - his Mistress |
"Well I wonder what Vespasian would say if he could see this pipe organ ?", Jim mused.
"Probably - 'Hoc est vere magnum hydraulis !'...", Ethan then replied, rather unimaginatively, forgetting for a moment that the organ builder guy was still in the room.
(translation from the Latin - That's a really big water organ !)
And with that the organ builder guy was certain that he was working for the Mafia - after all, they were in 'Vegas, and the guys he was dealing with had all this money, and were speaking Italian - but then what could he do - he'd been 'made an offer he couldn't refuse'.
Vespasian - was a Roman emperor who reigned from AD 69 to 79. The fourth and last emperor who reigned in the 'Year of the Four Emperors', he founded the Flavian dynasty that ruled the Empire for 27 years. His fiscal reforms and consolidation of the empire generated political stability and a vast Roman building program. Marcus (Jim), was a close friend of Vespasian - and also Antonia Caenis - Vespasian's mistress, who served Marcus as a substitute 'mother'.
"So what's next ?", Ethan asked - switching Teddy back to 'normal mode ' - not that there was anything 'normal' about Teddy - as the visitors had gone.
"Hi - did I miss anything important ?", Teddy asked.
"Well nothing, apart from Jim having an even larger version of 'Fort Knox' built in Henderson, and Ethan ordering a solid silver, one hundred ton, thirty foot pipe organ for his theater in Clark County...", Max replied.
The US Repository, known as Fort Knox, is a fortified vault building located next to the United States Army Base of Fort Knox, in Kentucky. The vault is used to store a large portion of the United States' gold reserves as well as other precious items belonging to or in custody of the federal government. It currently holds roughly 147 million troy ounces (4,580 metric tons) of gold bullion, over half of the Treasury's stored gold. The building was designed by Louis A. Simon and Henry Lawrence Casner in the Art Deco style in 1936.
Digital Representation of the US Repository - Fort Knox
I think it actually belongs to the 'Club Athena Hotel', which Jim owns, but I own a share of that - probably my little office.", Ethan said petulantly.
"Well - to get back to your question - 'what's next' - I think it's the 'designer thingy guys', who want to sort out the 'Combat Club' brochure - but first I think we need some lunch...", Jim suggested, mimicking Ethan's speech mannerisms.
So Jim told Emma to give his apologies to the the designers, and offer them a complimentary meal, and drinks in 'Club Athena' restaurant, while they waited for Jim to return from an unscheduled, important meeting (which was actually a private lunch with Ethan and Teddy and Max).
And so Jim, Ethan and Teddy, and Max left the 'Club Athena' by a rear, private entrance, and met up with Chuck and a big black limo that would take them to a new restaurant that Zac had recommended - 'Bouchon Bistro', situated at 3355, Las Vegas Boulevard South, (part of the 'Venetian Resort Hotel')- which Jim, as yet, didn't own.
"So why are we going to this place, rather than other places that we know ?", Ethan asked.
"Well I thought we could do with a change and, looking to the future when we visit Europe, I thought it would be a good thing for us to get accustomed to more sophisticated European food - which is what they serve at this new place - and I also want to have a look at the 'Venetian Resort Hotel'.", Jim explained.
"I see - so you're really just planning to buy yet another hotel,", Ethan said.
"Not at all - just looking to the future...", Jim responded.
It was not a long journey to the 'Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino'...
 |
| 'Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino' - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"This is really weird !", Max exclaimed, as they drove up to the 'Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino'."
"I know what you mean Max - like it doesn't really belong here - even more so than the 'Vegas Hotel Athena..."
(previously known as 'Caesars Palace' before Jim bought it).
At this point Teddy decided to 'help'.
"Yes, there is a problem here, boys.
You see, because the hotel is situated on quite a small site, the buildings that the owners decided to copy had to be reduced in size - so it looks a bit like an Italian 'Disneyland', or a very artistic 'kiddies playground' - all very odd".
"And why did they decide to copy Italian buildings ?", Max asked.
"Well, if you'll excuse me for saying - it's because of this xenophobia and paranoia that most Americans suffer from.", Teddy said, a little timidly.
"And what does xenophobia and paranoia actually mean ?", Ethan predictably asked - actually managing to pronounce both words correctly.
"Well - in simple terms - many Americans are frightened to go to other countries - except perhaps for Hawaii, Mexico or Canada, and generally frightened of people they think are foreigners - so when many Americans go on holiday, they like to go to a 'foreign' country, where there are no foreign people, where there is no foreign money, no foreign customs, and where everyone speaks English - or should we say 'American'...", Teddy explained.
 |
| Entrance - 'Bouchon Bistro' - 'Venetian Hotel and Casino' - Las Vegas |
"Oh, so a hotel that pretends to be part of Italy - in this case Venice, is ideal for such people.", Max said.
"Exactly."", Teddy concurred.
"And even if it is a miniaturized version...", Ethan added.
"And I suppose that you can say that because you lot are not American ?". Max, who was American, said, sounding disgruntled.
"Well, that's the way it seems to us - but no offence is intended - and it's mainly the opinion of a rather strange teddy-bear,,, ", Jim said, trying to smooth over the matter.
"Anyway, Zac says there is an excellent French restaurant in this supposedly Italian hotel - a restaurant that is very quiet - at least it should be as I have reserved the entire restaurant just for us - as we don't want anyone 'listening in'.", Jim said
So, after getting the limo parked, and making inquiries as to the location of the 'Bouchon Bistro', Jim and his companions finally arrived at the restaurant.
"I liked the sconces at the entrance...", Teddy remarked, as they looked round the empty restaurant.
"The whatys ?", Ethan asked, looking back at the entrance.
"The sconces... the wall-lights - very classical.", Teddy explained.
A sconce (the word is derived from Latin) is a lamp-holder – either a candlestick or lantern with a handle, or a lamp fixed to a wall. In the latter case the light is usually, but not always, directed upwards and outwards, rather than down. The sconce is a very old form of fixture, historically used with candles and oil lamps.
The maître d’ then rushed over to tell Jim that all the table were reserved, only for Jim to give his name, and a hundred dollar bill, making it clear that he had reserved the entire restaurant.
And so it was up to Jim and his companions to decide which table to choose.
 |
| The 'Bouchon Bistro' - 'Venetian Hotel and Casino' - Las Vegas |
"Of course this is not a real French restaurant, as we are in Las Vegas, in America, but it is very similar to the real thing...", Teddy commented in his off-putting very scholarly manner.
"Thank you, Teddy...", Jim said, politely smiling.
And so, once the first course had been ordered, Jim opened the discussion.
"Now, while we are having lunch here, I thought I should say something about the planned 'Athena Corporation Repository'.
I feel that at present storing the sarcophagus and Armantium at the 'Villa Athena' is very unwise, as the area and the buildings are far from secure.
This is of particular concern since we received information regarding the nature of Armantium when we were at Chichen Itza.
 |
| Athena Corporation Security Service |
 |
| Armantium Crystals |
In addition the Repository, rather than the 'Club Athena', will be used as a Headquarters for the 'Athena Security Service' - and this is in response to the increased surveillance that been directed at our operations here, and in Egypt and Mexico recently.
As such the Repository will also serve as a signals and decryption center, and also a training center for members of our security teams.
But it will be some time before the project is completed, as first the excavations will have to be undertaken, as much of the storage, and many of the other facilities will be underground.
So that's about it as far as it goes with regard to the repository." Jim concluded.
"And what about this other business - with Caleb ?", Ethan then asked...
 |
| California Combat Club' - 'Platinum Card' |
"Apparently, recordings of conversations that took place in Tolson's suite, and information from Agent Gordy, indicate that Tolson is quite enamored of Caleb - and also seems to be fascinated by the 'Combat Club' - as many others before him have been, and it seems that Tolson has acquired a 'Club Platinum Card' from the 'Athena Park Hotel', paid for in cash incidentally, and he is actually planning to make a visit to the club in the next few days.", Jim explained.
"So that might be interesting...", Max said, although Max was not really aware of the significance an ramifications of a visit by Tolson to the 'Combat Club.
At that point Jim called for the maître d’, in order to settle the tab.
"So where to next ?", Ethan asked, as he 'scooped' Teddy up from the table.
 |
| Gondola - Venetian Resort Hotel - Las Vegas |
"You know one of these days you'll just leave me somewhere - and forget where you left me...", Teddy moaned.
"Of course not, Teddy - you're fitted with a tracking device, so we can always easily find you.", Ethan replied, as he and Jim and Max left the restaurant, and made their way back to their limo.
"So what do you think of the 'Venetian' ?", Max asked, as they passed through the ornate hallways.
"Creepy...", Ethan replied.
"So are you going to buy it ?", Max the asked Jim.
"Unlikely...", Jim replied.
"But I do rather like the dinky 'gondola-thingys'..." Ethan said....
Venetian gondolas in Las Vegas are about as 'phony' as you can get - and it is Salinger who puts the word 'phony' into the mouth of his 'anti-hero' Holden Caulfield, in his novel 'Catcher in the Rye' - and undoubtedly, in the sense that Holden uses the word, Las Vegas is the 'phony' capital of the world - designed for people who wish to see the world safe, sanitized, and in 'Technicolor' - and Ethan, to some extent, is seduced by this....The real Las Vegas, however' is far from safe and sanitized - as even Ethan knows.
Fortunately the 'designer-thingy-guys' had not been waiting too long - and even more fortunately they had enjoyed their lavish complimentary lunch.
Now Jim decided to excuse himself, and retired to his private quarters which were situated above his very large and very grand office.
Once there he undertook the difficult task, by 'phone, of checking the Corporation's progress with Franklin.
He could, of course, have done this later in the afternoon in person, but he was keen to have an excuse to leave Ethan and Max alone and see how would cope with the difficult task of selecting images and text for the forthcoming 'Combat Club' brochure.
Teddy, of course, was switched to 'fluffy stuffed toy mode', and could therefore offer no help to the two 'directors' of the 'Entertainments Division of the Athena Corporation'.
"So, gentlemen... where do you want to start ?", Ethan asked, doing his best to sound authoritative - and as if he knew what he was doing - which he really didn't.
"Well, perhaps we could think about a provisional cover design, and an accompanying image - the 'boss designer' suggested.
"And so ?", Ethan asked, not really understanding what the 'boss designer' was really talking about.
"Well we could use a plain white background - it can look 'classy', and has the advantage of being relatively inexpensive in terms of printing costs.", the 'boss designer' suggested, "or we could use a plain color - I have a selection here" - and he produced a thick pad of color swatches - "or we could use a graduated background" - and he produced a further, equally thick pad of swatches.
"Or perhaps a textured background...."
Ethan, confused by all these options, grabbed the image of the textured background.
"Yes ! That's it !", Ethan exclaimed.
"Now, if we can transfer your images onto my laptop, I can us a program to give you a preview of how the finished product will appear.", the 'boss designer' suggested.
And so after a boring bit of digital fiddling about, the images that Adam had taken appeared on the designer's laptops.
"Now, indicate the image that you wish to use on the front cover, and my assistants here can 'Photoshop' it to your requirements.
'Adobe Photoshop' is a raster graphics editor developed and published by 'Adobe Inc.' It was originally created by Thomas and John Knoll. Since then, the software has become the industry standard not only in raster graphics editing, but in digital art as a whole.
 |
| Combat Club Brochure Cover |
"That's no problem at all, particularly as the current background is plain.
It'll just take a few minutes..."
So Ethan and Max waited - and waited...
And eventually....
"I hope that this is satisfactory...", the 'boss designer' said in that infuriating tone that indicated that he was sure it would be
"Amazing !", Ethan exclaimed, and then cleared his throat, and assumed a more measured tone - not wanting to raise the eventual cost of the project by showing too much enthusiasm.
"That's just what we were looking for - wouldn't you agree, Mr Thomas ?", Ethan continued.
For a brief moment Max looked around, wondering who Mr Thomas was - and then realized it was himself.
"Yes - I think that will be OK.", Max then finally said - not really knowing what a 'brochure' cover should actually look like.
"So what text were you intending to put in the brochure ?..", the 'boss' designer asked.
"Well, actually we hadn't really thought about that...", Ethan said rather lamely.
"No you hadn't", Max added, trying to distance himself from Ethan's obvious embarrassment.
"Well I can get my 'boys' working on putting in backgrounds for the other images, but until you provide me with some text, I can't really get on with the layout as such.", the 'boss designer 'said, sounding a little disappointed.
"OK, so I'll send you some text in the next couple of days...", Ethan said.
And so the 'designer-thingy-guys' left, and Ethan returned Teddy to 'normal' mode.
"So, how did it go ?", Teddy asked, flipping through the swatches that the 'boss designer' had left on Jim's desk.
"I think we got it a bit wrong...", Ethan began.
"I was imagining the these 'designer-thingy-guys' would help us with the whole thingy - pictures and words - but they only do the pictures...", Ethan explained sounding a little dejected.
'Don't worry Ethan - I can help you and Max... and we can write some excellent 'copy'...
I'm well programmed with lots of interesting and useful words, sentences and phrases.", Teddy said.
"That's nice of you Teddy - but let's not do it here in Jim's office - Jim might want to use it.
Let's go th my 'secret office' in the 'Athena Park Hotel'.", Ethan suggested.
'Yes, and we can also sort out the images that we want to use.", Max remarked.
"But I thought they took those images away on their laptop " Ethan said.
"Yes - but just copies to work on - we still have all the photos that Adam took at the Club.", Max reassured Ethan.
"OK - 'cool' - so let's get going...", Ethan said, having recovered some of his goof humor.
Eventually, they arrived at the top floor where Ethan's office was situated.
While Ethan set Teddy on his special reserved side area of the desk top, Max settled in himself in one of the large, well upholstered black leather arm chairs.
Ethan then sat at his desk and began.
"So - how do we write a brochure ?", Ethan asked.
Max shrugged his shoulders and looked blank.
Ethan then looked to Teddy.
"Come on Teddy - give us some help here...", Ethan pleaded.
"I've already started...", Teddy replied.
"How come ? You haven't said anything.", Max retorted.
"I'm constructing the text in a newly opened file, and will tell you about it in a short while - so just let me get on with it.
Teddy's Digital File
'The Combat Club Brochure'
The California Combat Club"Now how's that for a start ?", Teddy asked.'Many years ago Alexander Johnston - an eminent archaeologist, historian and philanthropist - conceived the idea of revving the 'Pankration' as a homage to the Ancient Greek concept of physical excellence, and founded in California a 'Club' where young men could train their bodies, and compete in the classical arts of unarmed combat.'
Alexander Johnston "Excellent, Teddy.. so how does it go on ?", Ethan responded."Like this...'Later the 'California Combat club, as it was known, was moved to Las Vegas, where Alexander Johnston had his business headquarters.
California Combat Club Unfortunately Mr Johnston is no longer with us, but his adopted heir, James Johnston still is.Although the 'Club' is no longer under the late Mr Johnston's direct control, the management of the 'Club' continues to look to James Johnston for guidance and inspiration.Because the Club is a living monument to Ancient Greek and Roman culture, the building that houses the 'California Combat Cub' is designed in the most refined Neo-Classical style, using the finest and costliest materials, and executed by the most skilled craftsmen, with no expense spared.a New EraToday, with the growing the expansion of tourism in Las Vegas, combined with the recently developed international air-links that have been established by 'AirWest', and the many upgraded Hotels (Casinos and Resorts) now linked with 'AirWest' as luxury vacation packages - the 'Combat Club & Health Spa' has become an increasingly popular attraction with discerning visitors to Nevada.
Fly 'AirWest' to Las Vegas Be taken from your door, by an 'Athena Limousine', to your nearest international air-port in the US, and then fly direct to 'Vegas and your luxury 'Athena Hotel', where you will be able to enjoy all the attractions offered by the 'California Health Spa' and the associated thrills of the 'California Combat Club'.Stars of the ClubBrody Harrison is one of Alexander Johnston's most significant 'discoveries'.
Alexander Johnston Coaching Brody Brody was first spotted working out by one of Alexander Johnston's associates - and was subsequently given an audition and 'photo-shoot'.His exceptional physique, good looks and wrestling skill immediately guaranteed him a place in the 'Combat Club' team.
'Brody Wrestling at the California Combat Club' Brody is a local, 'Vegas boy, and over time has become one of the most popular fighters to appear at the 'Combat Club'.While Brody does not win all his fights - he always provides an exceptionally exciting performance in the true spirit of the Classical Pankration.Remember - in Las Vegas it's easy to find the latest show starring Brody.Just go to any 'Athena' hotel, casino, restraint, spa or gym, where you will find posters advertising Brody's upcoming appearancesThen ask the friendly reception staff, who will help you to obtain a 'Platinum Combat Club Card'The card will give you access to the 'Combat Club Auditorium' where the wrestling extravaganzas are held - (cards are not issued without the presentation and details of a valid credit card)
'Paco' The latest addition to the 'California Combat Club' is a young Mexican called Francisco Valiente - generally known as 'Paco'.'Paco' has experience of wrestling in his home state of Chiapas, in Mexico, and is advising us about a Mexican style of wrestling, known as 'Lucha Libre', that we hope to introduce in the 'Combat Club during this coming quarter.
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| The First Appearance of 'Paco' in the 'Combat Club' Ring |
© copyright 'California Combat Club' / 'Athena Corporation' / 'AirWest'
for more information about the
'California Combat Club'
click on the
"So is that it Teddy?...", Ethan asked.
"Well, the start anyway - I think so - we don't want it too wordy - most people don't like reading much - especially when there'r on holiday - but I can add a few more images if you think that would help...
What do you think Max?", Teddy asked.
"Yes - some more images, Teddy.", Max replied as he scrutinized the images on Teddy's bright blue HP Laptop.
"OK - but you're paying these 'designer-thingy-guys' to do this work for you - and they're the 'experts' - so if you want me to do it all - then stop paying them...", Teddy wisely advised.
"Well, maybe... but we need to talk to Jim '..", Ethan said.
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| FBI Headquarters - Washington DC - USA |
Back at FBI HQ in Washington DC, Edgar J is doing his best, with Miss Gandy's help, to carry on without his beloved Clyde.
Every day Hoover is driven to work with Clyde, lunches with Clyde at the 'Mayflower Hotel', and often goes 'out on the town' in the evening with Clyde..
Now it has been nearly a week without Clyde (well only three day actually - but it seemed longer to Hoover).
But Edgar has only himself to blame, as it was his idea to send Tolson on a mission to Las Vegas - and all this trouble just to get to the bottom of this puzzle about James Johnston - and so far there wasn't even any evidence of a crime !
But there have been two missing agents - first there was Damrosch - actually an agent deeply undercover - and all that Chief Eckart of the Henderson Police could come up with was the conclusion that it was a 'suicide' - Damrosch had supposedly had his hand in the till - but surely the 'Bureau' was bankrolling him with more than enough...
And then there was that bright boy Lewis - who had unfortunately been seconded to the CIA - and as a result had found himself on the trail of Johnston - only to mysteriously disappear somewhere between Aswan and Cairo in Egypt.
But nothing could be proved.
And then even the Russians were actually sniffing around - in Mexico - and why ?
And J Edgar was worried about Clyde..
So worried that J Edgar had decided to contact Agent Gordy - via the FBI station chief in Las Vegas to get a report from Gordy about Tolson's progress with Caleb - and Gordy, as he wasn't told that the request was confidential, decided to meet with Harley and ask him about how things were going.
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| McDonald's near the Athena Park Hotel |
Now this wasn't normal FBI protocol - the correct procedure being to choose a different location each time a 'handler' required a meeting, but Gordy was not that experienced, and saw little danger in 'cutting corners'.
Teddy knew this, and had advised Ethan to recruit one of the McDonald's staff, for a worthwhile consideration, to make a contact if Gordy and Caleb - or even Tolson - turned up - and then try to keep them in conversation until an undercover 'Athena Security' guy could put a trace on them in order to pick up what was going on.
And that is exactly what happened - and so the 'plot thickened' - and while they had waited, Ethan ad got on with the music for the concert.
Ethan and Teddy discover Tolson's plans for attending the 'Combat Club' - they inform Zac, who prepares a plan. Meanwhile Ethan sorts out the 'designer-thingy-guys', and the new brochure is issued, while Jim has serious discussions with Novius and Tony - and Ethan begins rehearsals for the next concert as the pipe organ is installed in the Park Theater.
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with brief résumés
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2022
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2022
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 2022