PART I
Please note that this chapter is intended for adult viewers (over 18 years), and may contain images and text featuring nudity and strong language. Please do not view this chapter if you find such features objectionable....
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(first part of the meeting on the summit)
(first part of the meeting on the summit)
And so the day arrives for the 'run-through', in daylight, on f the Devils Tower. Their pilot Bob flew them to the summit - and all went well until awould-be assassin struck - but fortunately everyone survived. Glen was finally reprogrammed, and a further reconnaissance flight - this time in the dark - was undertaken - only to be interrupted by the appearance of a saucer.....
Teddy looked up from Jim's laptop.
He had been educating himself about humans.
While he 'loved' Ethan dearly, in a strange cybernetic, animatronic way - he really couldn't understand humans, despite all of Faunus' programming - and maybe that was because Faunus was not really human himself.
"So how was dinner ?", Teddy asked.
Really a rather meaningless question from Teddy, as he never ate, and so had no idea what food, or dinner, was - but he had been programmed to be polite, and ask all the right questions.
"It was fine, Teddy...", Ethan replied - "and we had a very good talk with Faunus and the 'Boss'.
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| Einstein - the Human |
"Oh, about tomorrow, and a guy called Einstein, and stuff...
And what are you looking at things about ancient Greece for ? ", Ethan asked, puzzled.
"I wanted to know more about you...", Teddy said, not really explaining himself very well.
"And Einstein's a dog.", Teddy said, absentmindedly.
"I see...", Ethan replied, ignoring Teddy's last comment.
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| Images of Flight in Teddy's Holographic 'Brain' |
"As ready as I'll ever be.
It's because Faunus never programmed me about 'holicepters' - or even the idea of flying - but I know I'm a brave bear, so it should be OK.", Teddy replied confidently.
"That's good, Teddy... you just keep a confident attitude.", Jim said.
That night nobody slept well.
This, of course, excludes Teddy, who never sleeps anyway, but he has the useful option of just switching himself off until the morning.
(please note: holiceptor is not a typo - Teddy can't say helicopter)
It was quiet at breakfast.
The 'Boss' didn't say much, because he didn't want to say anything that might set off anyone's anxieties.
Ethan, despite being encouraging and confident towards Teddy was, in reality, frightened.
Jim was a little nervous, but having been through so much in the past, he was strong enough to deal with this situation.
Glen simply didn't know what was going on, and decided to just keep his thoughts to himself.
Now you might be wondering why two 'tough' lads like Jim and Ethan should be so nervous about a little helicopter flight, but in the 'other time', and the 'other place', from where they seem to have originally come, it was only the 'gods', 'demigods', and other non-human entities that had any experience of flying.
The 'boys' had successfully come to terms with elevators, automobiles, cell-phones, DVDs, flat screen TVs and microwaves, but to them, humans flying was against the laws or nature as thy applied to human beings.
Flying was OK for Glaux, but not for them...
So that's why they were a lot more nervous about this flight than the average person.
Now the previous day the 'Boss', and the intended helicopter pilot, Bob, had driven out to find a suitable place from which the helicopter could take off and land.
This was not difficult to find, as there was quite a large flat area of scrub close the the butte.
All that was then needed was a quick visit to the Park Ranger responsible for the area, and the situation was neatly set-up for the following morning.
Bob had no problem with landing and taking off from the flat scrub, but landing and taking off from the summit of the Devils Tower was another matter.
Initially he maintained that such a maneuver was too dangerous, and 'out of the question' at night, but as always in such situations, the 'Boss' made Bob an offer he simply couldn't refuse - and that was that - as they say.
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| Parked by the Helicopter |
At about ten o'clock Faunus, Ethan (with Teddy), Jim and Glen drove out to the piece of scrub-land where the helicopter was clearly visible in the bright sunlight.
In the distance the Devils Tower stood trembling in the morning heat haze.
Faunus got out of Jim's convertible first, and strode over to have a 'conversation' with Bob.
Bob took an instant liking to Faunus, (but then he didn't have much choice).
And so Bob was quickly 'set-up' by Faunus not to take any notice of the boys' conversations, and to neither see nor hear Teddy.
So, as a result of his 'talk' with Faunus, Bob was more than happy to take his youthful group of tourists to the summit of the Devil's Tower, having been handsomely paid by the boys' charming and very generous 'uncle' - 'Mr Johnson' - (and if you can't work out who 'Mr Johnson', is then you really haven't been paying attention to the many previous chapters).
It was a very tight squeeze as there were four of them, plus Teddy, although he didn't take up much room as he was sitting on Ethan's lap.
Teddy was holding the camera which was quite light and compact, while Glen was looking after the rather bulky tripod, and Jim had the telescope
Ethan and Glen were too nervous to answer.
Jim managed a feeble 'OK'.
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| 'Bob' - the Helicopter Pilot |
"Fine, Bob !... Let's go !", Faunus said confidently.
Ethan, however, was thinking that it was not surprising that Faunus was so blasé about the whole 'adventure', as Faunus could probably fly - even without a helicopter.
"OK, so sit back and relax, and I'll take you on a trip round the tower so that you can see it from all angles.", Bob said, in his best combination of 'tour guide' and 'airline pilot' voice - the kind of voice that makes any normal person nervous, because it sounds as if the person speaking has just taken an overdose of Valium.
Bob then pulled at the lever that looked suspiciously like a hand brake lever on a European car, (US cars, in this alternative America, of course, have the handbrake on the dash), and the helicopter slowly began to take-off.
"Oh shit !", Ethan muttered under his breath, and Teddy squeaked.
Fortunately Bob didn't hear either.
Also, fortunately, Bob - not registering Teddy, didn't see that Teddy was wearing a blindfold.
Before Teddy had left Jim and Ethan's room, he had insisted on wearing a blindfold in the helicopter.
His reason - if he couldn't see what was happening, he wouldn't be scared.
This was problematic, as the boys hadn't packed blindfolds - but Ethan managed to make one by trying two of his incredibly expensive purple silk handkerchiefs together, (handkerchiefs that he normally wore in the breast pocked of his dark suites), and Teddy was quite satisfied.
Teddy, however, like all teddy-bears, was inveterately curious, and had pulled up one side of the blindfold.
Strangely, this made him look somewhat like an evil 'piratical teddy-bear', and the boys half expected to see a parrot on his shoulder.
And that is why he squeaked when they took off - only half a blindfold and 'peaking'.
The helicopter then zoomed over to the foot of the Devils Tower, and hovered there, while Bob fiddled with some of the controls.
Then the helicopter, which seemed to be uncomfortably close to the Tower, slowly started ascending.
It was like going up in a glass lift, but with no cables, and no lift-shaft - and no buttons that you could press to summon help
"I really can't take this !", Ethan muttered.
Glen said nothing - desperately puzzling as to how he had got into such a weird, and potentially dangerous situation.
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| Ascending the Devils Tower by Day |
"I think 'you only live twice'.", Teddy said, having gone, in nano-seconds, through the entire list of significant twentieth century movies, (that's not only 'Twentieth Century Fox' movies please note), that Faunus had programmed into his holographic memory, for some inscrutable reason.
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| The Giant Bear |
'Fuck the igneous rock !', Ethan would have said - had he understood about the unusual geological structure of the butte that Bob had described - but Ethan just wanted to get to the top, or even better get back down onto the ground.
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| Hasselblad H6D-400c MS |
And so they slowly rose up the 'Tower', and eventually got to the summit.
Ethan felt relieved as he got his first view of the almost flat expanse of the summit, while Jim snapped away with his obscenely expensive Hasselblad H6D-400c MS, another gift from the 'Boss' - but no favoritism Ethan, Zac and Josh were given the same.
Ethan then began to panic as, instead of stopping, the 'copter continued up.
Bob, of course, was looking for a good place to land, but Ethan didn't realize that.
Having quickly surveyed the summit, Bob spied a nice flat area, and gently, and very professionally set his gleaming machine down with a very soft thump and slight wobble.
They were there !
"And now will you stop gripping my fur, Ethan !", Teddy said, finally losing his squeak, and taking off what was left of his blindfold.
"Yes... yes of course.", Ethan replied, sounding embarrassed.
"I was only making sure that you were safe."
The summit was more bumpy and rocky than the 'boys' has imagined, and larger.
Once Bob had checked that everything was OK, Faunus got out from his place beside Bob, in the front of the cabin.
Jim, Ethan and Glen, at the same time extracted themselves from the rear of the compartment, with Glen handing a very nervous Teddy to Ethan.
"Don't drop me, Glen !", Teddy pleaded.
"Now calm down Teddy... we're a long way from the edge.", Ethan said, beginning to get a little annoyed at Teddy's constant anxiety, which was not at all like his usual brave little Teddy.
Ethan however, tried to put up with it by remembering that Teddy had apparently received absolutely no 'programming' regarding heights and flying - and so, in a way, his 'system' was malfunctioning.
Ethan decided to speak to Faunus about that when (if) they got back to the hotel.
The summit, which slopes slightly, is, in many ways, remarkably similar to the area around the base of the butte, with a surface made up of small stones, and with the occasional flat boulder.
There are also small areas of scrubby vegetation including cactus, wildflowers and shrubs, including sagebrush, totaling about fifty-three plant species, (or so Bob said).
There are also small mammals such as cute little chipmunks, and also pack-rats scurrying and scavenging among the summit boulders, and a few snakes - as Teddy later discovered.
"OK... Jim, you and Glen start setting up the telescope as if you were using it on the night - and Jim, attach the camera." Faunus said.
"And what shall we do ?", Ethan said, as he put Teddy down on the rocky surface of the summit of the Butte.
"Oh, you and Teddy just go and check out the flora and fauna - but don't go anywhere near the edge !", Faunus said firmly.
"Sorry Faunus, but what do the flora and fauna-thingys look like ?
Is the fauna something like you ?", Ethan asked.
"Ethan... you dummy !.... it's Latin .... 'plants and animals' !", Faunus replied, wondering how it was that Ethan seemed to have forgotten all of his Latin.
And so Ethan trudged off, round the other side of the helicopter, with a very confused bear following.
Moments later both Teddy and Ethan returned, looking perturbed.
"There was a funny sign round there, and I'm not sure what it means.", Teddy said anxiously.
"Well what does it say ?", Faunus asked Ethan.
"Beware of Rattle nakes.", Ethan said, sounding confused.
"It means 'Beware of Rattle Snakes' - so stay away from the grass, and don't lift up any stones - OK", Faunus replied.
"And the 'Rattle nakes' are fauna ... yes ?", Ethan asked still puzzled.
"Yes - and if you hear a rattling noise, get well away, but don't run towards the edge.", Faunus said, being very serious.
"Yes... OK Faunus.
But how did these 'nakes' get up here ?", Ethan asked.
"I really don't know...", Faunus replied quite honestly.
"But I don't think the Park Rangers would put up a sign if there weren't any up here.", Faunus replied, as he strode back to the helicopter, hoping to have a 'normal' chat with Bob.
Meanwhile Jim and Glen were coping quite well, as they worked on getting the telescope and camera set up.
Suddenly there was a very loud SQUEAK.
"It bit me !", Teddy cried out, and he ran towards Ethan as fast as his stubby little legs could carry him, and jumped into Ethan's outstretched arms.
"Calm down, Teddy...
"Where did it bite you ?", Ethan asked, gently stroking Teddy's head.
"On my leg.", Teddy replied, sounding very sorry for himself.
Ethan immediately called for Faunus, who was, in fact already running over, having heard the very loud squeak.
"Something bit his leg !", Ethan exclaimed, giving Teddy and extra hug.
"Probably one of those snakes.", Faunus said angrily.
"You go and see if you can find it, Ethan, and I'll take care of Teddy.
By then Ethan had worked out what a snake, ('nake'), was - remember that Ethan, like all the 'boys' had problems with memories - it was a side-effect of moving from one 'world' to another, and there were always gaps in the overall 'memory scheme' that could cause problems - which was particularly evident when Jim first arrived.
Ethan set out to find the snake, taking his Colt out of it's holster, and flipping off the safety catch.
Meanwhile, Teddy was sitting on the ground, looking miserable.
"It's nothing, Teddy... ", Faunus said reassuringly.
"It's good you're not human, however, otherwise you would be in real trouble."
Faunus pulled away at Teddy's fur to check what had happened.
"It's just punctured your waterproof membrane, and set off one of your 'damage-control sensors'.
That'll switch off in a minute or so, and then, when we're back at the hotel, I'll clean off the toxin, and sort out your membrane with the repair kit that was made to go with you.", Faunus said calmly.
"What's toxin ?", Teddy asked.
"It's something that can kill humans, and most living things, but it can't harm you, Teddy.
"I see...", Teddy said.
"But sometimes I do wish I was human...", Teddy said wistfully.
"I know, Teddy... but it's not all it's cracked up to be...", Faunus replied.
"After all... look at Ethan.." Faunus added, smiling.
"Ethan's the best...", Teddy said softly.
Suddenly there was a loud report... it was Ethan's gun, and he had found the rattlesnake - quite nearby - and shot it.
"And what about Jim ?", Faunus asked, purposefully looking away to see where Ethan has shot the rattler.
"Jim also, of course.... but not so cuddly.", Teddy replied, shyly.
"OK... so lets get back to the helicopter...", Faunus said, as Ethan came back to join them - putting his colt back into its holster.
By then, having got used to the intricacies of the telescope and its mount, Jim and Glen has dismantled everything, and were also ready to return the the helicopter.
Once they were in, and settled, Bob asked them how they had got on.
Fine, Faunus replied... it was a good run-through, and a good flight.", Faunus replied, being complimentary as he guessed what was coming next.
"And did I hear a shot out there ?", Bob asked, sounding serious.
"Yes, it was Ethan... he spotted a rattler, and shot it, after all when we return, when its darker, the less of those around the better". Faunus explained.
"True.,.", Bob answered, "but strictly speaking, if you intend to carry firearms, you need to get permission from the company, as guns are dangerous in the wrong hands in a 'copter.", Bob said.
"True... but Ethan is part of the official security team for the 'Boss' - a trained marksman - and the other boys here are all relatives of the 'Boss', so no disrespect was intended."
"A bit young isn't he ?" Bob questioned.
"Yes, but then so are a lot of our boys in the army ?", Faunus cleverly added.
The slowness of Faunus' reply indicated to Jim that it was no ordinary answer.
"Of course, Sir, but just make sure that Ethan keeps it in the holster, unless there' an emergency.", Bob added, in good military style.
The take off, for Bob, seemed easy, but then in his army career he had probably undertaken many far more dangerous takeoffs.
The landing was equally accomplished.
As the boys removed their equipment from the 'copter, Faunus went over to Bob, and discretely handed him a bulky, pristine white envelope.
It was not difficult to guess what it contained.
"So, everything's still on for tomorrow ? ", Bob asked, as he shook hands with Faunus.
"Of course...", Faunus said.
"By the way - looks like it was good shooting from Ethan!", Bob said, as a gentle form of an apology.
"It was... it always is with Ethan.", Faunus said
And they went over to Jim's convertible, and Ethan gave Bob a shy little wave.
On the way back Jim and Faunus, who were sitting together up-front had a short, quiet talk.
"I'm worried about that snake attacking Teddy.", Jim said.
"Why ?...", Faunus replied.
"It was probably just woken up and frightened by Teddy blundering about in the grass.", Faunus said.
True, but there's a connection.
The Maya - and the Aztecs - believed that one of their 'star-gods' took the form of a rattle-snake.
"You mean 'Quetzalcoatl' - the feathered serpent ?", Faunus asked.
"Yes.", Jim replied.
"Well, what's the connection", Faunus asked, not seeing what Jim was getting at.
"Well you remember that at Corona, when we were inside the saucer... it was Teddy who 'switched off' the 'aliens'.
Well perhaps they don't want him in the saucer again when we have our next meeting.". Jim explained.
"So you think that they had the rattler, sent by the 'serpent god', to bite him and get rid of him ?" Faunus said, speculating.
"Yes... but they hadn't understood that Teddy wasn't human, and wouldn't be affected by the venom.", Jim added.
"Possible...", Faunus said, by then looking very serious.
"We need to discuss this with the 'Boss', when we get back.", Faunus concluded.
"No need to try and talk quietly.... I have 'super hearing', remember... so I heard every word... and now I' really scared." ,Teddy said in a trembley voice.
It was only a half hour drive in Jim's convertible from the Devils Tower back to the Western Inn in Sundance.
On arrival Faunus went to see the 'Boss', while Jim, Glen and Ethan, carrying Teddy, went up to Jim and Ethan's room.
"So how do you feel now, Teddy ", Jim asked, once they were back in the room.
"Frightened...", Teddy replied, as he climbed into Ethan's side of the bed, and hid under the covers.
"Now don't be silly, Teddy.
"If a rattlesnake can't harm you, I don't see what you've got to be worried about.", Ethan said.
"No... but what if those 'pesky aliens' come and take me - and what if they decide to take me apart in their saucer.", was Teddy's muffled reply from under the covers.
At that moment there was a buzz at the door.
Jim opened it, and it was the 'Boss' and Faunus.
"Where's Teddy ? - I know he's in here - and upset.", Faunus said as he telepathically connected with Teddy.
"He's under the bed covers." , Ethan replied, sounding a little frustrated.
"Well it's best to leave him there until he feel less frightened.
It's quite understandable... quite a frightening experience.", the 'Boss' said calmly.
"So what's this business about Quetzalcoatl ?", the 'Boss' asked Faunus.
"Well, Sir - if these 'aliens' have any connection with the 'Mayan Star Gods', and are not happy about Teddy being at our next meeting - then perhaps they sent the rattle-snake to 'take him out', or frighten us off bringing Teddy.", Faunus suggested.
"Interesting... but that's only if these 'aliens' actually have any Mayan connection - and so far, apart from the time that you and I spent in Mexico, I don't see that such a connection is very strong.", the 'Boss' said.
The 'Boss' then paused for a minute and thought.
He then went over to the bed, and very gently uncovered Teddy's head, and ruffled the little bear's fur.
"You see, from what I can remember about what you told me about your conversation with the 'alien leader', there was no mention of the Maya.", the 'Boss' said, turning to Faunus.
"The only connection mentioned at that meeting was about Brandt, Area 51, and 'time-travel'.
They may be linked with the Maya 'star gods', but I think this is unlikely, and anyway they want some assistance from us - which we hope to find out about at this next meeting, so I hardly think they would jeopardize that by a misguided, and amateur attempt to get at Teddy with a rattlesnake.
No... I think it was just a coincidence, and the sign on the summit that you saw is a good indication that such accidents - as I believe it was - are a strong possibility.
Teddy, it seems, accidentally frightened the snake, and the snake defended itself.
Ethan shot it, which was not really necessary - but one less snake up there will make it safer the next time you go here, which will be in the dusk, and more dangerous.
So, as long as Teddy's OK, then I don't think there's any problem.", the 'Boss' concluded.
"I'm OK...", Teddy mumbled.
As the 'Boss' left the room, he beckoned to Jim to follow him.
Once they were out in the corridor the 'Boss' explained to Jim that he wanted them to go to his suite for a talk, and Jim obediently followed.
Faunus, after staying for a few moments to give some encouraging words to Teddy, also left, taking Glen with him.
"So, Teddy, it looks like it's just you and me, but if you think it will make you feel any better you can come and sit on my lap.", Ethan said gently.
"Yes...", Teddy replied..."I'll just have a quiet rest with you".
Jim entered the suite, and the 'Boss' immediately called room service and ordered drinks and sandwiches.
Jim then realized that this might be a long session.
"And what did you think of what happened today ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"It all went very well, Sir.", Jim began.
"I was a bit nervous during the flight, but Bob seems to be a good pilot ", Jim continued.
"And what about the summit... is it big enough for the 'alien' craft ", the 'Boss' asked.
"Yes, quite big enough, and quite flat.
Quite safe if you don't go near the edge.", Jim explained.
"And the business with Teddy...do you agree with my assessment of what probably happened ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"Yes...I don't think it had anything to do with the 'aliens' - for the reasons that you gave.
It was just an unfortunate accident, and although it obviously sacred Teddy, it was better that it happened to him, than to any of us.", Jim said.
"True.", the 'Boss' replied, with a smile, as he sipped on his drink.
"So what about the actual meeting ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"What do you mean ?", Jim asked, as he was confused about the question.
"Well we need to know why these 'aliens', if that's what they really are, have got involved with us.", the 'Boss' said.
"That's true, Sir, but I have the feeling that you're not being exactly straight forward with me...
What's actually on your mind ?", Jim asked, eager to have a better understanding of what was really going on.
The 'Boss' smiled.
"Well I have a theory, Jim.
I don't think that these guys are coming here from some far away star system - say in Orion, or the Pleiades - although they like us to think that.
I do think that they may well know something about the Maya - but they are not Mayan 'star gods'
I think that they gave the game away when they told Faunus about Brandt and Area 51.
In case I haven't told you, as a result of Faunus' negotiations with the 'alien leader', Faunus discovered that the 'aliens' were interested in Dr. Brandt because of his research into 'time travel' - rather than anything to do with cloning.
An important project that the aliens were pursuing, the 'alien leader' explained, was that of discovering more about the beings that had originally created them as a sort of 'slave-race'.
As this had happened in some other 'time period', one solution to this question was to travel in time, and discover what had actually happened - and maybe even alter events in order to prevent the problems that were now causing the deterioration of their DNA, and their lack of emotional responses.
'Roger', it seems, was simply a 'means' of finding out more about us, the suspected 'time travelers', that Brand seemed to have identified.
`
(second part of the meeting on the summit)
Ethan felt relieved as he got his first view of the almost flat expanse of the summit, while Jim snapped away with his obscenely expensive Hasselblad H6D-400c MS, another gift from the 'Boss' - but no favoritism Ethan, Zac and Josh were given the same.
Ethan then began to panic as, instead of stopping, the 'copter continued up.
Bob, of course, was looking for a good place to land, but Ethan didn't realize that.
Having quickly surveyed the summit, Bob spied a nice flat area, and gently, and very professionally set his gleaming machine down with a very soft thump and slight wobble.
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| Landing on the Summit |
"Yes... yes of course.", Ethan replied, sounding embarrassed.
"I was only making sure that you were safe."
The summit was more bumpy and rocky than the 'boys' has imagined, and larger.
Once Bob had checked that everything was OK, Faunus got out from his place beside Bob, in the front of the cabin.
Jim, Ethan and Glen, at the same time extracted themselves from the rear of the compartment, with Glen handing a very nervous Teddy to Ethan.
"Don't drop me, Glen !", Teddy pleaded.
"Now calm down Teddy... we're a long way from the edge.", Ethan said, beginning to get a little annoyed at Teddy's constant anxiety, which was not at all like his usual brave little Teddy.
Ethan however, tried to put up with it by remembering that Teddy had apparently received absolutely no 'programming' regarding heights and flying - and so, in a way, his 'system' was malfunctioning.
Ethan decided to speak to Faunus about that when (if) they got back to the hotel.
The summit, which slopes slightly, is, in many ways, remarkably similar to the area around the base of the butte, with a surface made up of small stones, and with the occasional flat boulder.
There are also small areas of scrubby vegetation including cactus, wildflowers and shrubs, including sagebrush, totaling about fifty-three plant species, (or so Bob said).
There are also small mammals such as cute little chipmunks, and also pack-rats scurrying and scavenging among the summit boulders, and a few snakes - as Teddy later discovered.
"OK... Jim, you and Glen start setting up the telescope as if you were using it on the night - and Jim, attach the camera." Faunus said.
"And what shall we do ?", Ethan said, as he put Teddy down on the rocky surface of the summit of the Butte.
"Oh, you and Teddy just go and check out the flora and fauna - but don't go anywhere near the edge !", Faunus said firmly.
"Sorry Faunus, but what do the flora and fauna-thingys look like ?
Is the fauna something like you ?", Ethan asked.
"Ethan... you dummy !.... it's Latin .... 'plants and animals' !", Faunus replied, wondering how it was that Ethan seemed to have forgotten all of his Latin.
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| 'Beware of Rattle nakes' (?) |
Moments later both Teddy and Ethan returned, looking perturbed.
"There was a funny sign round there, and I'm not sure what it means.", Teddy said anxiously.
"Well what does it say ?", Faunus asked Ethan.
"Beware of Rattle nakes.", Ethan said, sounding confused.
"It means 'Beware of Rattle Snakes' - so stay away from the grass, and don't lift up any stones - OK", Faunus replied.
"And the 'Rattle nakes' are fauna ... yes ?", Ethan asked still puzzled.
"Yes - and if you hear a rattling noise, get well away, but don't run towards the edge.", Faunus said, being very serious.
"Yes... OK Faunus.
But how did these 'nakes' get up here ?", Ethan asked.
"I really don't know...", Faunus replied quite honestly.
"But I don't think the Park Rangers would put up a sign if there weren't any up here.", Faunus replied, as he strode back to the helicopter, hoping to have a 'normal' chat with Bob.
Meanwhile Jim and Glen were coping quite well, as they worked on getting the telescope and camera set up.
Suddenly there was a very loud SQUEAK.
"It bit me !", Teddy cried out, and he ran towards Ethan as fast as his stubby little legs could carry him, and jumped into Ethan's outstretched arms.
"Calm down, Teddy...
"Where did it bite you ?", Ethan asked, gently stroking Teddy's head.
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| Would-be Assassin |
Ethan immediately called for Faunus, who was, in fact already running over, having heard the very loud squeak.
"Something bit his leg !", Ethan exclaimed, giving Teddy and extra hug.
"Probably one of those snakes.", Faunus said angrily.
"You go and see if you can find it, Ethan, and I'll take care of Teddy.
By then Ethan had worked out what a snake, ('nake'), was - remember that Ethan, like all the 'boys' had problems with memories - it was a side-effect of moving from one 'world' to another, and there were always gaps in the overall 'memory scheme' that could cause problems - which was particularly evident when Jim first arrived.
Ethan set out to find the snake, taking his Colt out of it's holster, and flipping off the safety catch.
Meanwhile, Teddy was sitting on the ground, looking miserable.
"It's nothing, Teddy... ", Faunus said reassuringly.
"It's good you're not human, however, otherwise you would be in real trouble."
Faunus pulled away at Teddy's fur to check what had happened.
"It's just punctured your waterproof membrane, and set off one of your 'damage-control sensors'.
That'll switch off in a minute or so, and then, when we're back at the hotel, I'll clean off the toxin, and sort out your membrane with the repair kit that was made to go with you.", Faunus said calmly.
"What's toxin ?", Teddy asked.
"It's something that can kill humans, and most living things, but it can't harm you, Teddy.
"I see...", Teddy said.
"But sometimes I do wish I was human...", Teddy said wistfully.
"I know, Teddy... but it's not all it's cracked up to be...", Faunus replied.
"After all... look at Ethan.." Faunus added, smiling.
"Ethan's the best...", Teddy said softly.
Suddenly there was a loud report... it was Ethan's gun, and he had found the rattlesnake - quite nearby - and shot it.
"And what about Jim ?", Faunus asked, purposefully looking away to see where Ethan has shot the rattler.
"Jim also, of course.... but not so cuddly.", Teddy replied, shyly.
"OK... so lets get back to the helicopter...", Faunus said, as Ethan came back to join them - putting his colt back into its holster.
By then, having got used to the intricacies of the telescope and its mount, Jim and Glen has dismantled everything, and were also ready to return the the helicopter.
Once they were in, and settled, Bob asked them how they had got on.
Fine, Faunus replied... it was a good run-through, and a good flight.", Faunus replied, being complimentary as he guessed what was coming next.
"And did I hear a shot out there ?", Bob asked, sounding serious.
"Yes, it was Ethan... he spotted a rattler, and shot it, after all when we return, when its darker, the less of those around the better". Faunus explained.
"True.,.", Bob answered, "but strictly speaking, if you intend to carry firearms, you need to get permission from the company, as guns are dangerous in the wrong hands in a 'copter.", Bob said.
"True... but Ethan is part of the official security team for the 'Boss' - a trained marksman - and the other boys here are all relatives of the 'Boss', so no disrespect was intended."
"A bit young isn't he ?" Bob questioned.
"Yes, but then so are a lot of our boys in the army ?", Faunus cleverly added.
The slowness of Faunus' reply indicated to Jim that it was no ordinary answer.
"Of course, Sir, but just make sure that Ethan keeps it in the holster, unless there' an emergency.", Bob added, in good military style.
The take off, for Bob, seemed easy, but then in his army career he had probably undertaken many far more dangerous takeoffs.
The landing was equally accomplished.
As the boys removed their equipment from the 'copter, Faunus went over to Bob, and discretely handed him a bulky, pristine white envelope.
It was not difficult to guess what it contained.
"So, everything's still on for tomorrow ? ", Bob asked, as he shook hands with Faunus.
"Of course...", Faunus said.
"By the way - looks like it was good shooting from Ethan!", Bob said, as a gentle form of an apology.
"It was... it always is with Ethan.", Faunus said
And they went over to Jim's convertible, and Ethan gave Bob a shy little wave.
"I'm worried about that snake attacking Teddy.", Jim said.
"Why ?...", Faunus replied.
"It was probably just woken up and frightened by Teddy blundering about in the grass.", Faunus said.
 |
| Quetzalcoatl - The Feathered Serpent |
The Maya - and the Aztecs - believed that one of their 'star-gods' took the form of a rattle-snake.
"You mean 'Quetzalcoatl' - the feathered serpent ?", Faunus asked.
"Yes.", Jim replied.
"Well, what's the connection", Faunus asked, not seeing what Jim was getting at.
"Well you remember that at Corona, when we were inside the saucer... it was Teddy who 'switched off' the 'aliens'.
Well perhaps they don't want him in the saucer again when we have our next meeting.". Jim explained.
"So you think that they had the rattler, sent by the 'serpent god', to bite him and get rid of him ?" Faunus said, speculating.
"Yes... but they hadn't understood that Teddy wasn't human, and wouldn't be affected by the venom.", Jim added.
"Possible...", Faunus said, by then looking very serious.
"We need to discuss this with the 'Boss', when we get back.", Faunus concluded.
"No need to try and talk quietly.... I have 'super hearing', remember... so I heard every word... and now I' really scared." ,Teddy said in a trembley voice.
The Feathered Serpent, Quetzalcoatl, was a prominent supernatural entity, found in many Mesoamerican religions. The double symbolism used in its name is considered allegoric to the dual nature of the deity, where being feathered represents its extra-terrestrial nature, its serpent nature represents its human nature, a dualism very common in Mesoamerican deities.
 |
| Western Inn - Sundance - Wyoming |
On arrival Faunus went to see the 'Boss', while Jim, Glen and Ethan, carrying Teddy, went up to Jim and Ethan's room.
"So how do you feel now, Teddy ", Jim asked, once they were back in the room.
"Frightened...", Teddy replied, as he climbed into Ethan's side of the bed, and hid under the covers.
"Now don't be silly, Teddy.
"If a rattlesnake can't harm you, I don't see what you've got to be worried about.", Ethan said.
"No... but what if those 'pesky aliens' come and take me - and what if they decide to take me apart in their saucer.", was Teddy's muffled reply from under the covers.
At that moment there was a buzz at the door.
Jim opened it, and it was the 'Boss' and Faunus.
"Where's Teddy ? - I know he's in here - and upset.", Faunus said as he telepathically connected with Teddy.
"He's under the bed covers." , Ethan replied, sounding a little frustrated.
"Well it's best to leave him there until he feel less frightened.
 |
| Quetzalcoatl |
"So what's this business about Quetzalcoatl ?", the 'Boss' asked Faunus.
"Well, Sir - if these 'aliens' have any connection with the 'Mayan Star Gods', and are not happy about Teddy being at our next meeting - then perhaps they sent the rattle-snake to 'take him out', or frighten us off bringing Teddy.", Faunus suggested.
"Interesting... but that's only if these 'aliens' actually have any Mayan connection - and so far, apart from the time that you and I spent in Mexico, I don't see that such a connection is very strong.", the 'Boss' said.
The 'Boss' then paused for a minute and thought.
He then went over to the bed, and very gently uncovered Teddy's head, and ruffled the little bear's fur.
"You see, from what I can remember about what you told me about your conversation with the 'alien leader', there was no mention of the Maya.", the 'Boss' said, turning to Faunus.
 |
| Area 51 |
 |
| Dr Sigmund Brandt |
They may be linked with the Maya 'star gods', but I think this is unlikely, and anyway they want some assistance from us - which we hope to find out about at this next meeting, so I hardly think they would jeopardize that by a misguided, and amateur attempt to get at Teddy with a rattlesnake.
No... I think it was just a coincidence, and the sign on the summit that you saw is a good indication that such accidents - as I believe it was - are a strong possibility.
Teddy, it seems, accidentally frightened the snake, and the snake defended itself.
Ethan shot it, which was not really necessary - but one less snake up there will make it safer the next time you go here, which will be in the dusk, and more dangerous.
So, as long as Teddy's OK, then I don't think there's any problem.", the 'Boss' concluded.
"I'm OK...", Teddy mumbled.
JIM & THE 'BOSS'
As the 'Boss' left the room, he beckoned to Jim to follow him.
Once they were out in the corridor the 'Boss' explained to Jim that he wanted them to go to his suite for a talk, and Jim obediently followed.
Faunus, after staying for a few moments to give some encouraging words to Teddy, also left, taking Glen with him.
"So, Teddy, it looks like it's just you and me, but if you think it will make you feel any better you can come and sit on my lap.", Ethan said gently.
"Yes...", Teddy replied..."I'll just have a quiet rest with you".
Jim entered the suite, and the 'Boss' immediately called room service and ordered drinks and sandwiches.
Jim then realized that this might be a long session.
"And what did you think of what happened today ?", the 'Boss' asked.
 |
| The Helicopter and the Devils Tower |
"I was a bit nervous during the flight, but Bob seems to be a good pilot ", Jim continued.
"And what about the summit... is it big enough for the 'alien' craft ", the 'Boss' asked.
"Yes, quite big enough, and quite flat.
Quite safe if you don't go near the edge.", Jim explained.
"And the business with Teddy...do you agree with my assessment of what probably happened ?", the 'Boss' asked.
 |
| Rattle Snake |
It was just an unfortunate accident, and although it obviously sacred Teddy, it was better that it happened to him, than to any of us.", Jim said.
"True.", the 'Boss' replied, with a smile, as he sipped on his drink.
"So what about the actual meeting ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"What do you mean ?", Jim asked, as he was confused about the question.
"Well we need to know why these 'aliens', if that's what they really are, have got involved with us.", the 'Boss' said.
"That's true, Sir, but I have the feeling that you're not being exactly straight forward with me...
What's actually on your mind ?", Jim asked, eager to have a better understanding of what was really going on.
"Well I have a theory, Jim.
I don't think that these guys are coming here from some far away star system - say in Orion, or the Pleiades - although they like us to think that.
I do think that they may well know something about the Maya - but they are not Mayan 'star gods'
 |
| Dr Brandt |
 |
| Cloning |
An important project that the aliens were pursuing, the 'alien leader' explained, was that of discovering more about the beings that had originally created them as a sort of 'slave-race'.
As this had happened in some other 'time period', one solution to this question was to travel in time, and discover what had actually happened - and maybe even alter events in order to prevent the problems that were now causing the deterioration of their DNA, and their lack of emotional responses.
 |
| 'Roger' |
When the 'aliens' discovered that these potential 'time travelers' were a group of young men, then there was the added incentive of learning more from them with regard to the nature of human sexuality.", the 'Boss' explained carefully.
"That seems to make sense, Sir, even if it is a bit complicated", Jim replied thoughtfully.
"Yes... but the important thing that you must remember is that Faunus has warned me often that beings such as these 'aliens' are definitely not to be trusted.
It seems that they will lead you along so far, and everything will seem to make sense, and sound plausible, and then they will 'pull the rug from under your feet', and you may well be left in a very bad situation.
"So I should be very careful when I meet them again ?", Jim suggested.
"Yes.... very.", the 'Boss' agreed.
"And your theory ?... that they are 'time travelers'?", Jim questioned.
"Time travelers, yes... in a sense...
But I think that actually, with that huge machine of theirs, they can 'bend both time and space'.", the 'Boss' said.
"So what do they want us for ?", Jim quite sensibly asked.
"For the same reason that Brandt wanted you.
Machines are not very convenient, and for all I know might not work very well.
They want to 'bend time and space' using the mind - the ultimate power.", the 'Boss' said, almost in a whisper, as if it were a terrible secret - which, in reality, it was.
"Yes but I can't use my mind to 'bend time and space', as you put it.", Jim retorted.
"No, but Faunus can, as you well know, otherwise what would we be doing here ?", the 'Boss' replied.
"So why go after me ?... why not Faunus.", Jim sensibly asked.
"Well Faunus tells me that they have some idea of what he is - which is more than I have - to be quite honest, and because of this they seem to be quite in awe of him - afraid almost - so perhaps we should learn from that.", the 'Boss' said seriously.
"So perhaps they can't get the secret - or the power - from him, but perhaps they think they can get it in some way from you - and maybe the others - or use you as 'bargaining chips' - who knows ?", the 'Boss' speculated.
By then Jim was beginning to feel scared.
"You mean that they could abduct us, and force Faunus to hand over the secret ?", Jim asked fearfully.
"It's possible...", the 'Boss' replied.
"So that's why I have been warning you - and you pass the warning on to Ethan and Glen.
Of course, you will have Faunus with you - so I think that will deter them, and then there's also Teddy...", the 'Boss' added.
"Teddy... what can he do ?", Jim foolishly asked.
"A lot, apparently.
Faunus told me that at Corona Teddy was able to switch off the 'alien leader', which apparently disabled the entire crew.
"You see Teddy is not human, obviously, but what he really is I'm not sure.
He appears to be a little fluffy funny thing, easily frightened, and always looking for affection - a bit like Ethan - as today's events seem to indicate - (although Ethan's beginning to change) - but in reality Teddy is much more like Faunus - so, be warned.", the 'Boss' said cryptically.
Problems with such 'stories' usually result in what humans call 'mental illness' - and that is obviously something that Faunus wanted to avoid with Glen.
"That seems to make sense, Sir, even if it is a bit complicated", Jim replied thoughtfully.
"Yes... but the important thing that you must remember is that Faunus has warned me often that beings such as these 'aliens' are definitely not to be trusted.
It seems that they will lead you along so far, and everything will seem to make sense, and sound plausible, and then they will 'pull the rug from under your feet', and you may well be left in a very bad situation.
"So I should be very careful when I meet them again ?", Jim suggested.
"Yes.... very.", the 'Boss' agreed.
"And your theory ?... that they are 'time travelers'?", Jim questioned.
"Time travelers, yes... in a sense...
 |
| Alien Machine |
"So what do they want us for ?", Jim quite sensibly asked.
"For the same reason that Brandt wanted you.
Machines are not very convenient, and for all I know might not work very well.
They want to 'bend time and space' using the mind - the ultimate power.", the 'Boss' said, almost in a whisper, as if it were a terrible secret - which, in reality, it was.
"Yes but I can't use my mind to 'bend time and space', as you put it.", Jim retorted.
"No, but Faunus can, as you well know, otherwise what would we be doing here ?", the 'Boss' replied.
 |
| Faunus |
"Well Faunus tells me that they have some idea of what he is - which is more than I have - to be quite honest, and because of this they seem to be quite in awe of him - afraid almost - so perhaps we should learn from that.", the 'Boss' said seriously.
"So perhaps they can't get the secret - or the power - from him, but perhaps they think they can get it in some way from you - and maybe the others - or use you as 'bargaining chips' - who knows ?", the 'Boss' speculated.
By then Jim was beginning to feel scared.
"You mean that they could abduct us, and force Faunus to hand over the secret ?", Jim asked fearfully.
"It's possible...", the 'Boss' replied.
"So that's why I have been warning you - and you pass the warning on to Ethan and Glen.
 |
| Teddy |
"Teddy... what can he do ?", Jim foolishly asked.
"A lot, apparently.
Faunus told me that at Corona Teddy was able to switch off the 'alien leader', which apparently disabled the entire crew.
"You see Teddy is not human, obviously, but what he really is I'm not sure.
He appears to be a little fluffy funny thing, easily frightened, and always looking for affection - a bit like Ethan - as today's events seem to indicate - (although Ethan's beginning to change) - but in reality Teddy is much more like Faunus - so, be warned.", the 'Boss' said cryptically.
GLEN & FAUNUS
Glen and Faunus entered Faunus' modest hotel room.
"Sit down Glen... relax...
The 'Boss' has asked me to have a word with you before we have this possible meeting with the 'aliens' on the summit of the Devils Tower."
Glen looked uneasy.
"So does this mean that the 'Boss' wants to 'let me go' - but won't tell me himself ?", Glen asked, fearing dismissal.
"Not at all, Glen.
I told you before - the 'Boss' thinks that you are an important member of the team, and is very pleased with you.", Faunus replied emphatically.
"So what's this all about ?", Glen asked nervously.
 |
| Glen |
"It's about you, Glen.
But it's going to be difficult to explain, and maybe hard for you to accept and understand.", Faunus began.
"So...?", Glen asked.
"Well to begin with, I want you to relax, and just gently drift...", Faunus said quietly.
"Oh no... it's not one of your hypnotism things again ?", Glen said.
"No... but I need you to avoid having a negative response to this little talk.", Faunus said.
At that point, without even realizing it, Glen had begun to slow his breathing, and he found his eyes gently closing.
"You will remember everything that I tell you while you are here with me now, and you will accept what you are told, and act appropriately on the information that you are given.", Faunus said, slowly and deliberately.
Then Faunus opened the door to the room, and Teddy came in, and gently climbed up onto Glen's lap - although Glen was not aware of the fact.
"OK, Teddy - do your stuff...", Faunus quietly said, smiling.
 |
| 'Sigi |
As with 'Sigi', back in 'Vegas, Teddy was then about to 'channel' some of the strange power with which Faunus had been endowed to Glen, finally initiating a process that would complete the transformation of the 'lost little alien' at Corona, into the 'being' that would be permanently identified as the youthful person known as 'Glen'.
So with what important information was Glen programmed ?
Basically it was a recounting of the recent events that had occurred to him, put in a seemingly logical order - with the various anomalies and contradictions eliminated.
It was, in many ways, a process common to all human beings, that consists of a mental process that constructs a 'story' that represents a reasonably logical and coherent organization of our recollections of impressions of events and things that we believe we have experienced over a given period of time.
Without such 'stories' we have no stable sense of self, and have great difficulty in orienting ourselves in what we take to be 'reality'.
 |
| Abducted |
And so it was explained to Glen that he, like all 'sentient beings' was essentially a 'life force' that could be expressed in various forms, both physically and psychologically.
It seems that his 'life force' was originally expressed in the form of what humans take to be an 'Alien Grey' (see above).
That 'form', both physical and psychological, was transformed by Faunus into a 'simulacrum' of a young human boy, identified as 'Glen', and programmed with appropriate memories, and 'stories' that would give 'Glen' a reasonably firm sense of identity.
Subsequently 'Glen' was abducted by his own 'alien' group, with the intention of extracting his human experiences and, in the process, returning him to his original 'form'.
 |
| 'New Glen' |
Rescued before the 'aliens' could complete the process, 'Glen', as a result of the actions of the 'aliens', unintentionally aged a few 'human years', and had all his memories wiped.
Faunus had then provided the slightly older 'Glen' with a new (and less complex) 'story' and set of memories - which Teddy (channeling from Faunus) proceeded to back-up and elaborate, in order to provide 'Glen' with stable and satisfactory personality and sense of self.
It would take most of the remainder of the night for Glen to absorb all the changes that his 'psyche' and undergone, but hopefully, by the morning all would be well.
Faunus and Glen met on the way down to breakfast.
"So how are you feeling, Glen ?", Faunus asked, trying to be casual,
"Really good... for some reason... but I had some more really strange dreams about once being an 'alien', but not frightening like the other dreams I had in Amarillo were.
In fact they were quit nice dreams, in a very odd way.", Glen said, quite cheerfully.
"That's good...", Faunus replied, scanning Glens thoughts, just to make sure that what he was saying was reliable.
"And I also had some dreams about 'back home', in Cleveland - good dreams of old memories.
"Excellent !..., Faunus said, satisfied that the reprogramming had been successful.
"And you're OK about today ", Faunus asked.
"Yes... well after yesterday, it now seems like it might be a bit of an adventure...", Glen replied.
"OK, well later, when you have a quiet moment, have a word with Jim and Ethan, as the 'Boss' has given them some important advice about how to deal with these 'alien' guys, if we eventually get to meet them.", Faunus added.
When Faunus, Glen, Ethan and Jim met the 'Boss' at breakfast, the 'Boss', knowing that the boys had time to fill in before their second flight to the Devils Tower, suggested that the 'boys' went shopping.
Unfortunately, the 'Boss' really hadn't done his home-work.
It seems there are practically no shops - at least shops that would sell anything that teenage 'boys' would be interested in looking at, or buying - except of course a shop owned by Robert Redford - and a movie-house advertising the infamous 'Sundance Film Festival'.
Flipping through the Internet, it seemed that the highlights or the town were the school and the Public Library.
"And I thought that Amarillo was a 'one horse town....", Ethan commented.
There was, however, a list of things for visitors that you must see !
Six things, as it happened, and these included, in order a 'excitement' - 'Crook County Museum', 'Warren Peak Lookout Tower', the '1875 Gallery', 'Cement Ridge Lookout', 'The Dime Horseshoe Bar' (a 'biker bar' - and Ethan certainly wasn't going there in case he got 'beaten up'), and the 'Sundance Kid Statue'.
"Wowee !", as Ethan said.
But of course, it should be remembered that the 'boys' were 'city boys', and were looking for more excitement and sophistication - and wanted to spend some money...
But of course, this was the so-called 'Wild West' - perhaps...
On realizing this awkward and strange fact about 'things to do in Sundance', the 'Boss' suggested some time in the pool, and the small gym, and that possibly that the 'boys' should do some research on the Internet, as they had access to laptops, on current theories about 'aliens' and space and time travel - but under the supervision and advice of Faunus.
Ethan, of course, was eager to spend some of the time watching, with Teddy, a DVD he had loaded onto his laptop of his favorite film - 'Bambi' - (of course) - and so Teddy would have to watch it yet again - but as Teddy was so grateful for Ethan having shot the rattle-snake - he was quite happy to do this little favor for his 'second best friend'.
When Faunus, Glen, Ethan and Jim met the 'Boss' at breakfast, the 'Boss', knowing that the boys had time to fill in before their second flight to the Devils Tower, suggested that the 'boys' went shopping.
Unfortunately, the 'Boss' really hadn't done his home-work.
It seems there are practically no shops - at least shops that would sell anything that teenage 'boys' would be interested in looking at, or buying - except of course a shop owned by Robert Redford - and a movie-house advertising the infamous 'Sundance Film Festival'.
Flipping through the Internet, it seemed that the highlights or the town were the school and the Public Library.
"And I thought that Amarillo was a 'one horse town....", Ethan commented.
There was, however, a list of things for visitors that you must see !
Six things, as it happened, and these included, in order a 'excitement' - 'Crook County Museum', 'Warren Peak Lookout Tower', the '1875 Gallery', 'Cement Ridge Lookout', 'The Dime Horseshoe Bar' (a 'biker bar' - and Ethan certainly wasn't going there in case he got 'beaten up'), and the 'Sundance Kid Statue'.
"Wowee !", as Ethan said.
But of course, it should be remembered that the 'boys' were 'city boys', and were looking for more excitement and sophistication - and wanted to spend some money...
But of course, this was the so-called 'Wild West' - perhaps...
On realizing this awkward and strange fact about 'things to do in Sundance', the 'Boss' suggested some time in the pool, and the small gym, and that possibly that the 'boys' should do some research on the Internet, as they had access to laptops, on current theories about 'aliens' and space and time travel - but under the supervision and advice of Faunus.
 |
| The Forrest - 'Bambi' |
 |
| Thumper on the Ice - 'Bambi' |
And so the day passed, slowly... but eventually the light began to fade , and a call to Faunus from Bob indicated that he was on his way in the 'copter.
Bob, however wanted to speak to the 'Boss'.
Bob, very politely and diplomatically, reminded the 'Boss' that it was not the usual policy of the company to sanction night flights in dangerous areas, such a the Devils Tower, and that he and the company could not be held in any way responsible for anything that happened to the 'boys' during their time alone on the summit.
The 'Boss' made it quite clear that he understood, and that the 'boys' would remain in one place, and simply take some astronomical photo for 'National Geographic', and then 'phone Bob to come and pick them up when they had finished - although they might take some time, as they would have to maybe wait for the best observational conditions.
The 'Boss' also made it clear that Bob would be well rewarded for his trouble.
Bob, very politely and diplomatically, reminded the 'Boss' that it was not the usual policy of the company to sanction night flights in dangerous areas, such a the Devils Tower, and that he and the company could not be held in any way responsible for anything that happened to the 'boys' during their time alone on the summit.
The 'Boss' made it quite clear that he understood, and that the 'boys' would remain in one place, and simply take some astronomical photo for 'National Geographic', and then 'phone Bob to come and pick them up when they had finished - although they might take some time, as they would have to maybe wait for the best observational conditions.
The 'Boss' also made it clear that Bob would be well rewarded for his trouble.
Bob was obviously quite satisfied - and so everything was settled, and Faunus and the boys, along with Teddy in his Walmart bag, and their equipment, made their way to Jim's convertible.
Jim had raised the roof of the convertible, and for a change the auto, although it was extremely large, felt somewhat claustrophobic, and a certain tension could be felt by the 'boys' as they drove the short distance to where the 'copter was parked and waiting.
"So... this is it...", Ethan said somewhat ominously, as he thought about a possible further encounter with a rattler.
"Don't worry about the snakes..", Faunus said, reading Ethan's thoughts.
"When it gets cooler in the evening they get very drowsy, and just go to sleep.
"Good !", Ethan replied.
As they drove, Jim turned on the radio, and the news was not good.
Apparently a strange light had been seen over Deadwood - across the state-line in South Dakota
Now Deadwood is to the southwest of the Devils Tower, and could be on the flight path that the 'aliens might take.
Deadwood (Lakota - Owáyasuta 'To approve or confirm things') is a city in South Dakota, United States, and the county seat of Lawrence County. It was named by early settlers after the dead trees found in its gulch. The city had its heyday from 1876 to 1879, after gold deposits had been discovered there, leading to the 'Black Hills Gold Rush'. At its height, the city had a population of 5,000, and attracted larger-than-life Old West figures including Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok (who was killed there).
It was not, of course, the intention of Faunus and the 'boys' to meet with the 'aliens' on this second flight, as this was just a run-through for setting up their equipment, and actually being on the summit in low light conditions - but with this news, it seemed possible that the 'aliens' were on their way.
"So, guys, should we go on with this, or 'phone Bob and cancel ?", Jim asked.
"Oh, lets get on with it !",Ethan said.
"After all we're all set up."
Jim turned to Glen.
"What do you think, Glen ?"
Glen shrugged his shoulders.
"I agree with Ethan... let's do it !", Glen replied, showing his new sense of confidence.
"And Faunus ?", Jim asked.
 |
| Parked Helicopter - Dusk |
"All right by me, guys.", Faunus replied, sounding remarkably relaxed.
"And what if the saucer is hanging around when we arrive, and Bob sees it ?", Jim asked.
"Don't worry... he shan't see anything - I'll make sure of that...", Faunus explained reassuringly.
"OK.", Jim said in conclusion.
As arranged, the 'copter was parked near enough in the same spot as it had been on the previous morning, and Bob, cheerful as ever, was waiting for them.
The 'boys' loaded their equipment and Faunus ensured, with a few very odd comments, that Bob would not be aware of a little furry guy later in the flight, and would not aware of any unusual objects or lights in the sky - so hopefully all would go well.
 |
| Lightning Over the Devils Tower |
Bob performed another perfect take-off, but Faunus scanned the darkening skies warily.
Suddenly there was a vivid flash of lightning, but Bob didn't seem to notice, or maybe care, as they flew upward.
Teddy was looking far from comfortable, particularly as for this flight he had decided to be brave, and not use his blindfold - and Ethan was beginning to regret his previous decision to go ahead with the flight.
Glen, with his new found confidence seemed to be relishing the experience, and Jim was carefully looking around, sure that the 'alien' craft must be somewhere in the vicinity.
And Jim was not far wrong.
Faunus, of course, was gently reassuring Bob that it was a fine night, with clear skies - so Bob didn't seem to notice that they were being followed by a huge, glittering 'saucer' - which was all to the good.
 |
| Dusk Take-Off to Devils Rock |
The 'boys' of course, said nothing, and Teddy had his eyes firmly shut.
What he couldn't see would therefore be of no concern to him.
As it was getting dark, Bob didn't fly round the butte, or ascend slowly, but simply flew direct to the summit - a very short flight.
Again, and despite the less favorable conditions, Bob made another perfect landing.
The 'boys', now knowing what to expect, were quick to unload their equipment from the 'copter, and Ethan made sure that Teddy was safely disembarked.
Bob then gave them a cheery wave.
"Lucky that you've got such a nice night !", Bob shouted above the noise of the rotors, as he very gently took off.
"What's wrong with that guy ?", Ethan said in total disbelief, as the lightning flashed and the wind rose.
"It's beginning to rain, it's windy and there all this lightening."
Jim smiled.
"It's just Faunus... tinkering with the poor guy's brain.", Jim explained.
"Well I hope he hasn't 'tinkered' too much - I wouldn't want him to crash that helicopter.", Ethan said, as he scanned the terrain for 'late-night' rattle-snakes.
Then something very odd happened.
The rain stopped, the wind died down to nothing, the air grew warmer - and it was, without a doubt a beautiful night.
"That's odd...", Glen said, looking around - having noticed the change.
"Yes, and where's that saucer-thingy ?", Ethan asked.
"So what should we do now ?", Jim asked Faunus.
"Best set up the 'scope and the camera - just in case Bob comes back unexpectedly", Faunus suggested.
"And Ethan and Teddy... don't wander off... we don't want you going over the edge.", Faunus warned.
"No problemo... we'll just sit here, now that the grass seems dry, and look out for the 'pesky aliens'." Ethan replied.
And so, while Ethan and Teddy watched the skies, Faunus, Jim and Glen set up the equipment.
"Quiet... isn't it ?", Ethan said, having noticed the complete absence of any noise.
"You know Teddy, I've a feeling we're not in Wyoming anymore"...
"You know Teddy, I've a feeling we're not in Wyoming anymore"...
This is an example of the 'Oz Factor', (inspired by a book written by American author L. Frank Baum in 1900 - and is taken from the movie quote 'Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore.'). The 'Oz Factor' is a term that refers to the experience of being isolated or transported from the 'real world' of 'everyday life' into another environment which is quite similar to the 'real world' but changed enough to be noticeable and disturbing. Such experiences are common in UFO encounters.
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| The Saucer Approaches the Devils Tower |
Teddy then suddenly became alert.
"They're coming...", Teddy said quietly, in order not to alarm anybody.
(because Teddy has extra sensitive eyes and ears he was able to spot the 'alien' craft some time before the others.)
The 'boys' and Faunus all looked up to were Teddy's fury little paw was pointing.
"He's right, you know.", Jim said.
"Good boy Teddy !".
"Yes.", Faunus agreed.
"Odd that they've got all their lights blazing, though.
You'd think that they'd want to be more discreet.", Faunus added.
And instantly all the lights went out.
"Must have heard you...", Ethan said, grinning.
"I think they were just letting us know that they were here....", Jim suggested.
"Perhaps, but they obviously haven't worked out that Teddy has super-sensitive everything..", Ethan said.
"True, but I don't think they've worked out what Teddy really is...", Faunus suggested.
"And I don't think we have... apart from Faunus that is...", Glen said.
"I'm just a cute teddy-bear... isn't that obvious ?". Teddy said, feigning embarrassment.
By then the Saucer was descending, and Faunus, Teddy and the 'boys' were making sure that they were well out of the way of the huge craft, while at the same time keeping well clear of the edge of the butte.
"Well I'm not so scared as I was last time... but it's still pretty unnerving.", Ethan said, as he picked up Teddy.
"So what happens now ?", Glen asked.
And so they waited....
"Perhaps, but they obviously haven't worked out that Teddy has super-sensitive everything..", Ethan said.
"True, but I don't think they've worked out what Teddy really is...", Faunus suggested.
"And I don't think we have... apart from Faunus that is...", Glen said.
"I'm just a cute teddy-bear... isn't that obvious ?". Teddy said, feigning embarrassment.
By then the Saucer was descending, and Faunus, Teddy and the 'boys' were making sure that they were well out of the way of the huge craft, while at the same time keeping well clear of the edge of the butte.
"Well I'm not so scared as I was last time... but it's still pretty unnerving.", Ethan said, as he picked up Teddy.
"So what happens now ?", Glen asked.
(remember, the last time Faunus, Teddy and the 'boys' met with the 'aliens, at Corona, Glen was already in the UFO)"Well, we wait here, and a door opens, and the 'aliens' invite us in... at least that's what happened before.", Ethan explained.
And so they waited....
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Please note that this chapter is intended for adult viewers (over 18 years), and may contain images and text featuring nudity and strong language. Please do not view this chapter if you find such features objectionable....
(second part of the meeting on the summit)
And so the saucer lands on the summit of the Devils Tower - a door opens, and Faunus, and the 'boys' and Teddy enter the UFO - and there they have the long awaited second meeting with the 'aliens' - and there is much to talk about....
and
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2021
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2021
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 2021