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While Ethan, along with Faunus, Khonsu and 'Sigi' try to turn von Braun into a composer of soundtrack music for the American movies, Jim, who is still in Luxor with Zac, Josh, Max and Glen, is busy arranging for a luxurious Nile cruise to keep them amused.... and without the assistance of Teddy as guide, Jim finds he needs to hire Ismail - the mysterious young Egyptian tourist guide from Cairo but living in Luxor, to help them with their trip.Meanwhile, Faunus and Teddy plan to escape, with Ethan and 'Sigi', from 1920s Berlin.
Jim was really missing Ethan.
And then there was the absence of the furry little bear, forever rearranging and plumping up the pillows and cushions, and playing his favorite movies on his silly blue laptop.
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| Kha-met |
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| Khonsu |
And it was one thing knowing that his companions were elsewhere, but what made things worse was the fact that according to Khonsu they had all travelled into the past.
And that brought up the question of Khonsu.
Jim had always had doubts about Khonsu.
Who or what was he, really ?
As far as Jim could work out, Khonsu was the boy that had greeted them when the entered the Pyramid Ship that had landed on Chaco Canyon - and then he had called himself 'Kha-met' - and that was for the meeting with rather dubious and sinister 'Upuaut' - so how was the same boy also Khonsu - a boy who was apparently 'hanging around' in the village of Qurnah in Egypt ?
So things were not looking good.
So things were not looking good.
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| Dahabiya Hadeel - River Nile |
The last thing that Faunus had told Jim to do was hire a Dahabiya and sail South with the 'boys' and Ismail.
Jim would have to take Ismail because otherwise nobody would know anything about the many sites that they would encounter on their cruise without Teddy.
Hiring the Dahabiya was not a problem, as the concierge at the Winter Palace was only too ready to oblige.
As for Ismail it would involve another trip to the West Bank in Mahmoud's felucca, and then a Taxi ride with Hassan to Al Tareef, where Ismail's family had their home.
Jim was worried that maybe Ismail might be annoyed that Jim had seemingly 'dumped' him in flavor of Khonsu.
Obviously, with business in Luxor being very slack, Ismail was was quite desperate for money, and Jim was a very good source of such an income.
Then there was the nagging suspicion that Jim held that maybe Ismail actually knew who, or what Khonsu was, and maybe the same suspicion could also be applied to Sheikh Ahmed.
The problem, as Jim had discovered, was that it was difficult to trust anyone in Egypt.
Jim was worried that maybe Ismail might be annoyed that Jim had seemingly 'dumped' him in flavor of Khonsu.
Obviously, with business in Luxor being very slack, Ismail was was quite desperate for money, and Jim was a very good source of such an income.
Then there was the nagging suspicion that Jim held that maybe Ismail actually knew who, or what Khonsu was, and maybe the same suspicion could also be applied to Sheikh Ahmed.
The problem, as Jim had discovered, was that it was difficult to trust anyone in Egypt.
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| Tonfilm - Sound Movies |
"OK, now it depends where you meet this guy von Braun.
In a science lecture, just 'cast doubts' into his mind as to the possibility of any success with rocketry, and for Ethan, in the School of Music, just enthuse about the latest 'sound movies' - 'tonfilme', remember ?", Faunus said.
As they broke up, Faunus followed Ethan and Teddy up to their suite.
"You go off then, Ethan.
I have to do some adjustments to Teddy", Faunus explained.
"Well don't mess him up....
I like him just the way he is at the moment..", Ethan said, as he picked up his musical sketches, and left.
"Now, Teddy, we have to decide what we're going to do.." Faunus said.
"Well, somehow we need to get Khonsu away from the hotel so that we can explain things to 'Sigi', and then get us all to the elevator....", Teddy said.
"OK...so let me think about that and I'll try to arrange something...." Faunus replied.
As they broke up, Faunus followed Ethan and Teddy up to their suite.
"You go off then, Ethan.
I have to do some adjustments to Teddy", Faunus explained.
"Well don't mess him up....
I like him just the way he is at the moment..", Ethan said, as he picked up his musical sketches, and left.
"Now, Teddy, we have to decide what we're going to do.." Faunus said.
"Well, somehow we need to get Khonsu away from the hotel so that we can explain things to 'Sigi', and then get us all to the elevator....", Teddy said.
"OK...so let me think about that and I'll try to arrange something...." Faunus replied.
Back on the West Bank in Luxor, when Jim arrived at the house of Ismail's family at al Al Tareef the atmosphere was decidedly frosty.
As Ismail had been the guide for Jim's group in Cairo, they were undoubtedly expecting him to continue that work in Luxor.
The fact that that didn't happen, and that then most of Jim's group had left Luxor was undoubtedly a disappointment.
'Shai' offered and everyone sat in an uncomfortable silence.
"So where is Ethan, Teddy and Ali...Ismail asked...(Ismail had never told his parents that Teddy was in fact a teddy-bear).
"Oh...they had business meetings in Germany..but should be back soon.", Jim said.
"But the others are still here on holiday...?", Ismail asked.
"Yes, and I am planning to take them on a Nile cruise to Aswan, and I was wondering, if you were free, if you would like to be our official 'tour group leader' on the Dahabiya that I have hired ?", Jim asked.
"You've hired a Dahabiya ?", Ismail said, almost instantly brightening up and relaxing, and telling his mother to make some lunch
Of course Jim didn't understand about the lunch as he didn't speak Arabic.
"And when would this be ?", Ismail asked.
"Well we were hoping to set off tomorrow, or the day after, if that's not too soon, as they're already provisioning the boat.
"Well yes, and for how long..?"
"As long as it takes...", Jim replied.
"But there's somethings that I must ask you about....", Ismail began, hesitantly.
"Go on...."
"Well it's about that boy Khonsu...
The people in the village have been saying that he helped you to find a cave...
So what were you looking for...Egyptian antiquities ?", Ismail asked.
"No, not at all....it was just a cave - carved in an unusual way...", Jim answered, trying to be truthful.
"And you found it ?", Ismail asked.
"Oh yes...", Jim replied.
"So....two of haj Abdu's sons disappeared the night that you went to the cave with Khonsu, and the police have never found them...so were they involved in any way, after all they have a bad reputation round here - particularly when it comes to dealing in antiquities." Ismail explained.
"Well I don't know about that, but neither of haj Abdu's sons came with us - in fact I didn't take very kindly to the 'haj'....or his sons...", Jim said defensively."But you did buy an antique vase from him..." Ismail said.
"Now hold on, Ismail....
You're' not the police....and neither I, nor you have any proof that the vase was antique, and I simply bought it because it was a very fine piece of work...
So what are you suggesting....?", Jim asked, leaving his seat as if to leave.
"Nothing...", Ismail said, worried that he had gone too far.
"It's just that Khonsu seemed a very strange boy, and only appeared here just before you arrived, and the haj and his family have, as I said, a very bad reputation, and nobody since Ali (Faunus) left has been able to find that 'special cave'.... so before I find myself on a boat in the middle of the Nile with you and your friends, many who carry guns, I thought I should check a few things.", Ismail said, sounding nervous.
Jim resumed his seat.
"OK....well the guns are because being, shall we say, 'well known' I need to avoid thieves and kidnappers...as for Khonsu, I have no explanation, but since staying a few days with the group at the hotel, he has disappeared.
And haj Abdu's sons - well I have no idea what happened, and as I only saw the cave at night, I have no idea where it is.
So I hope that satisfies you...", Jim said.
"Of course, so now have lunch with us...my mother's nearly finished preparing it.", Ismail said smiling broadly.
Meanwhile, In Berlin Faunus set off to the Technische Hochschule in Charlottenburg.
Faunus knew, as only Faunus could know, that von Braun would be there, attending a lecture on rocket propellants - boring to most people, but then young von Braun was intent on discovering if there was 'Life on Mars' (possibly before David Bowie ?).
Now Faunus was not keen on interfering in peoples lives, although it was very easy for him to slip suggestions into idle conversation that could have very significant effects.
In this particular case, on this particular morning, he felt that he had little option.
Changing timelines was- and is - dangerous....and one could never be totally certain of the eventual results.
The idea of von Braun, transformed into 'Max Brown', happily writing attractive little songs for the seven dwarfs, or maybe Pinocchio was all very charming, but perhaps 'Max Brown's versions might not come up to the standard that Ethan was expecting, or perhaps the 'Penthouse Gang' might not even make it to 'Vegas.....or worse.
So perhaps it might be best to let von Braun invite Friedrich von Hagen (Khonsu) back for dinner - and eventually become a rocket scientist.
And of course, Emmy von Quistorp (yes, another 'von' - von Braun's mother), would be delighted to meet the blond, blue-eyed young supposed aristocrat from Munchen, in Bayern - not realizing that he was almost certainly, as Ethan would say, a 'pesky alien' - but in disguise.
Faunus, of course, after Teddy's revelations, not really caring if von Braun became a rocket scientist or a composer, would simply be 'charming', and make no effort to influence matters one way or another.
Meanwhile, Faunus, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' would hopefully make their escape via Teddy's beloved elevator.
And so Faunus, disguised as a professor of aeronautics got into conversation with Khonsu and von Braun in the student-kantine (cafeteria) of the Technische Hochschule, and deftly 'dropped' his suggestion.
Faunus then discretely disappeared, not bothering to wait and see if the suggestion was taken up - as there was no need.
Faunus then picked up 'Sigi', who was aimlessly looking for von Braun in another lecture theatre in the Hochschule, and with little or no explanation took him to the Universität der Künste, in order to find Ethan.
Ethan was making a 'splash' at the Universität der Künste, deftly playing his 'First Sketch' to a group of students who had gathered round him in one of the music studios, while a group of lecturers looked on, quite obviously impressed.
As soon as Ethan saw Faunus and 'Sigi' he immediately stopped playing, much to the disappointment of his 'audience'.
"Well you are doing well...", Faunus said.
"No...not really...I can't find von Braun.", Ethan answered.
"Actually, I meant your playing.
Everyone here seems very impressed.", Faunus explained.
"Yes...but it's all thanks to you....and I am very grateful.
But when we leave here, will I lose this ability ?", Ethan asked.
"Not unless you asked me to 'wipe' it...but I would have thought that being able to read music and play the piano would be something that you would want to keep...", Faunus said.
"Yes...very much..", Ethan said enthusiastically.
"Well don't worry about von Braun....there's been a change of plan, but I can't explain for the moment...just trust me......
And now we must return to the Hotel Adlon,and I must check some details at reception - and, if you see him, don't mention my visit to the music academy to Khonsu...", Faunus said.
Little was said on their return to the Hotel, and then, a little later, they went out to a 'traditionally' German restaurant, the 'Hopfingerbräu', which was Faunus' idea so they could taste some German food, rather than the international cuisine at the Adlon.
Meanwhile, having had lunch at the 'student-kantine' (cafeteria), von Braun, who was a rather stiff, buttoned up young man, typical of the Prussian aristocracy, had warmed to Friedrich von Hagen (Khonsu), and they were soon relaxed in one another's company.
Faunus knew, as only Faunus could know, that von Braun would be there, attending a lecture on rocket propellants - boring to most people, but then young von Braun was intent on discovering if there was 'Life on Mars' (possibly before David Bowie ?).
Now Faunus was not keen on interfering in peoples lives, although it was very easy for him to slip suggestions into idle conversation that could have very significant effects.
In this particular case, on this particular morning, he felt that he had little option.
Changing timelines was- and is - dangerous....and one could never be totally certain of the eventual results.
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| Wappen von Hagen |
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| Wappen von Quistorp |
So perhaps it might be best to let von Braun invite Friedrich von Hagen (Khonsu) back for dinner - and eventually become a rocket scientist.
And of course, Emmy von Quistorp (yes, another 'von' - von Braun's mother), would be delighted to meet the blond, blue-eyed young supposed aristocrat from Munchen, in Bayern - not realizing that he was almost certainly, as Ethan would say, a 'pesky alien' - but in disguise.
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| Friedrich von Hagen - Khonsu |
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| Technische Hochschule - Berlin |
And so Faunus, disguised as a professor of aeronautics got into conversation with Khonsu and von Braun in the student-kantine (cafeteria) of the Technische Hochschule, and deftly 'dropped' his suggestion.
Faunus then discretely disappeared, not bothering to wait and see if the suggestion was taken up - as there was no need.
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| Universität der Künste - Berlin |
Ethan was making a 'splash' at the Universität der Künste, deftly playing his 'First Sketch' to a group of students who had gathered round him in one of the music studios, while a group of lecturers looked on, quite obviously impressed.
As soon as Ethan saw Faunus and 'Sigi' he immediately stopped playing, much to the disappointment of his 'audience'.
"Well you are doing well...", Faunus said.
"No...not really...I can't find von Braun.", Ethan answered.
"Actually, I meant your playing.
Everyone here seems very impressed.", Faunus explained.
"Yes...but it's all thanks to you....and I am very grateful.
But when we leave here, will I lose this ability ?", Ethan asked.
"Not unless you asked me to 'wipe' it...but I would have thought that being able to read music and play the piano would be something that you would want to keep...", Faunus said.
"Yes...very much..", Ethan said enthusiastically.
"Well don't worry about von Braun....there's been a change of plan, but I can't explain for the moment...just trust me......
And now we must return to the Hotel Adlon,and I must check some details at reception - and, if you see him, don't mention my visit to the music academy to Khonsu...", Faunus said.
Little was said on their return to the Hotel, and then, a little later, they went out to a 'traditionally' German restaurant, the 'Hopfingerbräu', which was Faunus' idea so they could taste some German food, rather than the international cuisine at the Adlon.
Meanwhile, having had lunch at the 'student-kantine' (cafeteria), von Braun, who was a rather stiff, buttoned up young man, typical of the Prussian aristocracy, had warmed to Friedrich von Hagen (Khonsu), and they were soon relaxed in one another's company.
Preußen (Prussia) was a historically prominent German state that originated in 1525 with a duchy centered on the region of Prussia on the southeast coast of the Baltic Sea. For centuries, the House of Hohenzollern ruled Prussia, successfully expanding its size by way of an unusually well-organised and effective army. Prussia, with its capital first in Königsberg and then, in 1701, in Berlin, decisively shaped the history of Germany. The term 'Prussian' has often been used to emphasize professionalism, aggressiveness, militarism and conservatism of the Junker class of landed aristocrats in the East, who dominated first Prussia and then the German Empire.
Preußischer Adler
It was at that point that von Braun invited Friedrich von Hagen (Khonsu) to dinner that evening....an invitation that, strangely, Khonsu was only too willing to take up.
And so they took a taxi to the luxurious house that the Baroness Emmy von Quistorp kept in Berlin.
A little earlier, Faunus, Ethan and 'Sigi' left the Hopfingerbräu, which was very close to the Hotel Adlon, and Faunus asked them all up to his suite.
When they arrived they found Teddy waiting for them, along with a few items of light luggage.
"So what are you doing in Faunus' suite, and with luggage ?", Ethan asked, sounding surprised.
"I'm under orders...", and that was all Teddy would say.
"Right, 'boys'..... I didn't want to tell you before, as Khonsu would probably be able to read your thoughts, but it seems we've been brought here under false pretences.", Faunus began.
"What do you mean ", 'Sigi' exclaimed.
"Well, Teddy has been doing some research, and it seems that Khonsu was not being honest about the so called 'guardians' - if they really exist - and the whole business about the 'aliens' being concerned about humans going into space....so I think it's best - and safest - that we get back to Egypt as quickly as possible - and without telling Khonsu.", Faunus explained.
"OK, but how do we get back..?", Ethan asked.
"Well ...we've got an elevator, haven't we ?", Teddy said.
"Yes...true...but how will it take us back to Egypt....it only goes up and down...", 'Sigi' said, plainly puzzled.
"It's all in the buttons...", Teddy replied, cryptically.
By then Faunus was banking on the fact that Khonsu had gone to visit the von Brauns.
"OK guys...now trust me....
We're all paid up....and hopefully we won't bump into Khonsu, so let's go to the elevator."
So, obviously, they made their way to the elevator, which seemingly was obediently standing empty.
Faunus, Ethan with Teddy, and 'Sigi' entered the very luxurious all brass elevator.
Faunus then touched the brass button panel, which sparkled and sparked very strangely at his touch.
"Looks like a short circuit...", Ethan said.
"No..just an adjustment....
OK Teddy it's all set up...", Faunus said.
"And which button do I press ?", Teddy, who was looking to the door hoping that no one else would come in, said
"Number 33, of course...", Faunus replied.
"This is weird...", Ethan said, as he noticed that the lowest button - below 'E' - German for ground floor - was number 33.
"Oh yes...of course... ", Teddy said, turning his head round and looking at the buttons...
"Number 33..."
"Just do it !"...'Sigi' said...beginning to panic.
And Teddy did it.
"Isn't it strange that the button panel in this elevator is identical - except for the little 'E', to the panel in the elevator in Club Athena.....?", Ethan mused, as they spent an instant - but it seemed longer - in hyperspace - before coming to rest.
The question was, however, did the elevator come to rest, or did the universe come to rest.
"So...it's back to Egypt then...", Ethan said, as they waited for the doors to open.
And the doors did open, and they found themselves in the strange columned hall which was somewhere in the 'Cave of the Lion' - presumably on the West Bank, situated in the Theban Hills in Luxor...Egypt.
"There was a time when stepping out into a place like this would seem like something from a crazy dream...but now, it seems more like 'home sweet home'...", Ethan said, sounding very relieved.
"Well, Ethan, there was a time for me when 'home sweet home', as you put it, was a very small cardboard box....",Teddy said.
"True...but 'there's no place like home'...", Ethan added.
And so they walked through the columned courtyard to the entrance of the cave.
As they stepped out of the cool shadows, they were immediately hit by the blinding light of the sun, and by a blast of heat, and all the mingled scents (and smells) of the West Bank of Luxor.
"Well, this is more like it.....
Those Prussians were just too clean and tidy...and Berlin is cold, even in good weather...", Ethan said, savouring the sights and sounds of the West Bank.
"Well, let's go down to that little coffee shop and have some nice sweet 'shai'...", Faunus said.
And who would they find in the coffee shop but Hassan - apparently doing very little.
"Hi Ali.., Hassan called..."تعال مع أصدقائك واجلس هنا" - ("Come with your friends and sit here.")
'Cool' Egyptian boys usually said 'Hi' rather than 'مرحبا' in Arabic.
"So how's business, Hassan ?", Faunus asked in Arabic.
"Not very good, but Mr. Jim came across this morning, with Mahmoud...
And I took him to that tour guide in El Tareef, so perhaps he is planning to do some more sightseeing...who knows..?", Hassan said, sounding rather despondent.
"Well after we've had some 'shai', we need to go back to the Winter Palace, so if you can, I would like you to drive us to the river."
"Of course, Ali...but where have you been...?
Mahmoud and I have missed these last few days.", Hassan asked.
(it was very difficult to have secrets in Egypt)
"Oh, Ethan and I had to go to Cairo....some business for Jim.
"Ah...something to do with that very fine piece of alabaster that Mr. Jim bought, perhaps.", Hassan said, obviously 'fishing'.
"As it happens, Hassan, it wasn't....but no matter.", Faunus said.
Then in order to avoid any further embarrassment, Faunus (Ali) contacted Mahmoud on his cell-phone.
Faunus then had to go through the same interrogation from Mahmoud - and had to give the same 'story' to Mahmoud.
"And are you not going to introduce me to this young man you have brought with you ?", Hassan asked, obviously referring to 'Sigi'.
At that point Faunus needed to think quickly, as he realised that it could be difficult to explain 'Sigi's presence.
"Oh yes...this is 'Sigi', he works for Jim in Cairo, and I thought that he might come south and see Luxor.", Faunus said, hoping that he would not need to explain things any further.
Hassan and 'Sigi' then shook hands.
"It's an unusual English name..", Hassan observed.
Hassan, in his work, had obviously met very many English tourists, and had almost certainly never met anyone called 'Sigi'.
"Well, 'Sigi's family originally came from Germany, and 'Sigi' is short for Siegfried, but he now lives in America most of the time, but is doing some work for Jim here in Egypt.", Faunus explained.
"But we need to get back to the Winter Palace, so I'll just pay for the 'shai', and perhaps we could go and meet Mahmoud.", Faunus suggested.
Very little was said on the journey to the West Bank corniche.
Faunus, reading Hassan's thought, realised that he was suspicious of 'Sigi', and was also wondering where 'Ali' (Faunus), Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' had come from, and what they had been doing on the West Bank, and why they had not used his taxi previously.
Eventually they caught sight of Mahmoud, standing beside his motorboat.
Faunus exchanged greetings with Mahmoud, who was obviously puzzled by the appearance of Faunus, and his companions, on the West Bank.
To try and keep Hassan happy, Faunus gave him plenty of baksheesh... promised to contact him the following day, and then they climbed aboard Mahmoud's motorboat.
Strangely, no one asked about Khonsu.
"Wow...now that's a sight I'm pleased to see....", Ethan said as Mahmoud's motorboat approached the East Bank Corniche, and the Winter Palace came into view.
"Why you say this, Ethan ?
You have only been away a few days, and only to Cairo..", Mahmoud said.
Ethan, of course, had forgotten himself, and become rather over enthusiastic.
"Oh, it's just that I like the hotel, and I missed Sekhmet and Bastet.", Ethan replied, cleverly avoiding any further explanations.
"You speak of the cats ?", Mahmoud asked, obviously puzzled.
"Yes...I like them a lot...", Ethan replied....and it was true.
"So what happens now ?", 'Sigi asked, as they mounted the crimson carpeted stairs to the main entrance of the Winter palace.
"I'm not sure...", Faunus replied.
"Now before we left for Berlin I told Jim to arrange for a cruise down the Nile with the 'boys'.
The thing is, we have come back very much sooner than I expected, so I'm wondering what has happened.", Faunus said.
"Well that's no 'problemo', Faunus, just contact him on your 'cell-phone-thingy'...", Ethan said.
Faunus looked surprised.
"Yes, of course.....stupid of me...I'm thinking we're still in the 1920s...", Faunus said.
Jim, however, was not on a Dahabiya floating south down the Nile.
In fact he was taking the sun, and playing with Sekhmet and Bastet in the gardens of the Winter Palace.
"So where are you, Faunus ?", Jim asked, when he got the call.
"I'm standing at the main entrance to the Winter Palace with Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi'...", Faunus replied.
"Well I'm in the garden with the cats, so why don't you come in, and I'll order some nice cold drinks.", Jim said.
"OK...in a moment...but first I have to get the room keys for 'Sigi'.
(Jim had previously booked 'Sigi' a room at the Winter Palace before the trip to Berlin).
After collecting 'Sigi's keys, Faunus, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' all passed through the main entrance hall of the hotel, and made their way to the steps on the other side of the building that led down to the gardens.
Jim was sitting on the grass, a short distance from the steps.
Faunus and the 'boys' and Teddy joined Jim, and one of the waiters brought them drinks.
The waiter offered to bring them chairs, but Jim said they were quite happy to sit on the beautifully mown grass.
Teddy had never walked - or sat - before on grass, and found the whole experience very interesting, and in no time Sekhmet and Bastet had joined him, looking to be stroked.
So Jim then started questioning Faunus, while Teddy sat on the grass, with Sekhmet and Bastet lying either side of him, enjoying the attention they were getting, and Ethan sipped his Pepsi Max.....the first he had drunk for some time, as there was no such thing as Pepsi Max in the 1920s.
"So why are you back so soon ?", Jim asked
"Well, there was a problem with Khonsu....", Faunus replied.
"Now that's interesting.....
Just this morning I went to see Ismail, on the West, Bank about this Nile cruise, and we got to talking, and he mentioned that he was very suspicious about Khonsu....", Jim said.
"Well it's not surprising...a blond blue-eyed boy hanging around in a village in Upper Egypt, dressed like an Egyptian, speaking the local Arab dialect....
And the only reason I was not all that suspicious was the fact that he was familiar with Sheikh Ahmed...", Faunus said.
"So why didn't your telepathic abilities tell you there was a problem ?", Ethan asked.
"Well nothing showed up...", Faunus said.
Jim caught 'Sigi', at that moment, looking suspiciously at Faunus and Ethan.
"Yes, 'Sigi'....in case you haven't guessed already....Faunus can read people's thoughts....", Jim confirmed.
"Well I'd better be careful what I'm thinking...", 'Sigi' said, with a faint trace of a smile.
"Anyway, what was the problem with Khonsu..", Jim asked.
Faunus then described what Teddy had told him in the Hotel Adlon with regard to the 'guardians' and the 'Grey aliens' supposed concerns regarding the possibility of human exploration of the Moon and Mars - and the fact that Teddy's research had indicated that there were serious problems with that scenario.
"So...the question is - what was Khonsu trying to achieve by getting you, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' to go with him to Berlin ?", Jim asked.
"I'm not sure....
At first I thought that I couldn't detect any untoward thoughts on the part of Khonsu, simply because he had no such thoughts, but now I think he was able to shield his thinking from my probing, which probably means that he is no simple 'entity', but one of some considerable sophistication.", Faunus said.
"And there's me thinking he was so cute...", Ethan said, as he tickled Teddy's ear.
"So where do we go from here ?...", Jim asked.
"Well I think the best thing to do is to carry on with the original plan..", Faunus replied.
"You mean the Nile cruise ?"
"Yes...", Faunus said in reply to Jim's question.
"And you can take 'Sigi' with you, as well as the others, and I'll stay here at the hotel and study these two cats....just in case they've been planted on us.", Faunus added.
"And what about Ismail ? - I did make a deal with him....", Jim said.
"Yes, take him along..he probably needs the money, and the experience will be good for him.", Faunus agreed.
"Did you hear that, my furry little friends... you are going to stay with nice 'uncle' Faunus.", Ethan said to Sekhmet and Bastet, tickling each one under the chin.
"Well I want to have a bath, and relax...so I'll see all of you later - for dinner. " Jim said.
"And I need to give Teddy a good brush - so what are you going to do, 'Sigi' ?", Ethan said.
"Well where are the others ?, Sigi asked.
"Out shopping..but they'll be back soon...so I suggest that we all meet again for dinner.", Jim said.
And so they took a taxi to the luxurious house that the Baroness Emmy von Quistorp kept in Berlin.
A little earlier, Faunus, Ethan and 'Sigi' left the Hopfingerbräu, which was very close to the Hotel Adlon, and Faunus asked them all up to his suite.
"So what are you doing in Faunus' suite, and with luggage ?", Ethan asked, sounding surprised.
"I'm under orders...", and that was all Teddy would say.
"Right, 'boys'..... I didn't want to tell you before, as Khonsu would probably be able to read your thoughts, but it seems we've been brought here under false pretences.", Faunus began.
"What do you mean ", 'Sigi' exclaimed.
"Well, Teddy has been doing some research, and it seems that Khonsu was not being honest about the so called 'guardians' - if they really exist - and the whole business about the 'aliens' being concerned about humans going into space....so I think it's best - and safest - that we get back to Egypt as quickly as possible - and without telling Khonsu.", Faunus explained.
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| Elevator - Adlon Hotel |
"Well ...we've got an elevator, haven't we ?", Teddy said.
"Yes...true...but how will it take us back to Egypt....it only goes up and down...", 'Sigi' said, plainly puzzled.
"It's all in the buttons...", Teddy replied, cryptically.
By then Faunus was banking on the fact that Khonsu had gone to visit the von Brauns.
"OK guys...now trust me....
We're all paid up....and hopefully we won't bump into Khonsu, so let's go to the elevator."
So, obviously, they made their way to the elevator, which seemingly was obediently standing empty.
Faunus, Ethan with Teddy, and 'Sigi' entered the very luxurious all brass elevator.Faunus then touched the brass button panel, which sparkled and sparked very strangely at his touch.
"Looks like a short circuit...", Ethan said.
"No..just an adjustment....
OK Teddy it's all set up...", Faunus said.
"And which button do I press ?", Teddy, who was looking to the door hoping that no one else would come in, said
"Number 33, of course...", Faunus replied.
"This is weird...", Ethan said, as he noticed that the lowest button - below 'E' - German for ground floor - was number 33.
"Oh yes...of course... ", Teddy said, turning his head round and looking at the buttons...
"Number 33..."
"Just do it !"...'Sigi' said...beginning to panic.
And Teddy did it.
 |
| Columned Hall in the Lion Cave |
The question was, however, did the elevator come to rest, or did the universe come to rest.
"So...it's back to Egypt then...", Ethan said, as they waited for the doors to open.
And the doors did open, and they found themselves in the strange columned hall which was somewhere in the 'Cave of the Lion' - presumably on the West Bank, situated in the Theban Hills in Luxor...Egypt.
 |
| Wizard of Oz - 'there's no place like home'. |
 |
| Teddy in his FedEx Box |
"Well, Ethan, there was a time for me when 'home sweet home', as you put it, was a very small cardboard box....",Teddy said.
"True...but 'there's no place like home'...", Ethan added.
And so they walked through the columned courtyard to the entrance of the cave.
As they stepped out of the cool shadows, they were immediately hit by the blinding light of the sun, and by a blast of heat, and all the mingled scents (and smells) of the West Bank of Luxor.
"Well, this is more like it.....
Those Prussians were just too clean and tidy...and Berlin is cold, even in good weather...", Ethan said, savouring the sights and sounds of the West Bank.
"Well, let's go down to that little coffee shop and have some nice sweet 'shai'...", Faunus said.
 |
| Hassan - West Bank Luxor |
"Hi Ali.., Hassan called..."تعال مع أصدقائك واجلس هنا" - ("Come with your friends and sit here.")
'Cool' Egyptian boys usually said 'Hi' rather than 'مرحبا' in Arabic.
"So how's business, Hassan ?", Faunus asked in Arabic.
"Not very good, but Mr. Jim came across this morning, with Mahmoud...
And I took him to that tour guide in El Tareef, so perhaps he is planning to do some more sightseeing...who knows..?", Hassan said, sounding rather despondent.
"Well after we've had some 'shai', we need to go back to the Winter Palace, so if you can, I would like you to drive us to the river."
"Of course, Ali...but where have you been...?
Mahmoud and I have missed these last few days.", Hassan asked.
(it was very difficult to have secrets in Egypt)
"Oh, Ethan and I had to go to Cairo....some business for Jim.
"Ah...something to do with that very fine piece of alabaster that Mr. Jim bought, perhaps.", Hassan said, obviously 'fishing'.
"As it happens, Hassan, it wasn't....but no matter.", Faunus said.
Then in order to avoid any further embarrassment, Faunus (Ali) contacted Mahmoud on his cell-phone.
Faunus then had to go through the same interrogation from Mahmoud - and had to give the same 'story' to Mahmoud.
"And are you not going to introduce me to this young man you have brought with you ?", Hassan asked, obviously referring to 'Sigi'.
At that point Faunus needed to think quickly, as he realised that it could be difficult to explain 'Sigi's presence.
"Oh yes...this is 'Sigi', he works for Jim in Cairo, and I thought that he might come south and see Luxor.", Faunus said, hoping that he would not need to explain things any further.
Hassan and 'Sigi' then shook hands.
"It's an unusual English name..", Hassan observed.
Hassan, in his work, had obviously met very many English tourists, and had almost certainly never met anyone called 'Sigi'.
"Well, 'Sigi's family originally came from Germany, and 'Sigi' is short for Siegfried, but he now lives in America most of the time, but is doing some work for Jim here in Egypt.", Faunus explained.
"But we need to get back to the Winter Palace, so I'll just pay for the 'shai', and perhaps we could go and meet Mahmoud.", Faunus suggested.
Very little was said on the journey to the West Bank corniche.
 |
| Mahmoud - West Bank Luxor |
Eventually they caught sight of Mahmoud, standing beside his motorboat.
Faunus exchanged greetings with Mahmoud, who was obviously puzzled by the appearance of Faunus, and his companions, on the West Bank.
To try and keep Hassan happy, Faunus gave him plenty of baksheesh... promised to contact him the following day, and then they climbed aboard Mahmoud's motorboat.
Strangely, no one asked about Khonsu.
 |
| East Bank Corniche and the Winter Palace |
"Why you say this, Ethan ?
You have only been away a few days, and only to Cairo..", Mahmoud said.
Ethan, of course, had forgotten himself, and become rather over enthusiastic.
"Oh, it's just that I like the hotel, and I missed Sekhmet and Bastet.", Ethan replied, cleverly avoiding any further explanations.
"You speak of the cats ?", Mahmoud asked, obviously puzzled.
"Yes...I like them a lot...", Ethan replied....and it was true.
 |
| Winter Palace - Main Entrance |
"I'm not sure...", Faunus replied.
"Now before we left for Berlin I told Jim to arrange for a cruise down the Nile with the 'boys'.
The thing is, we have come back very much sooner than I expected, so I'm wondering what has happened.", Faunus said.
"Well that's no 'problemo', Faunus, just contact him on your 'cell-phone-thingy'...", Ethan said.
Faunus looked surprised.
"Yes, of course.....stupid of me...I'm thinking we're still in the 1920s...", Faunus said.
Jim, however, was not on a Dahabiya floating south down the Nile.
In fact he was taking the sun, and playing with Sekhmet and Bastet in the gardens of the Winter Palace.
"So where are you, Faunus ?", Jim asked, when he got the call.
"I'm standing at the main entrance to the Winter Palace with Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi'...", Faunus replied.
 |
| Steps to the Gardens - Winter Palace - Luxor |
"OK...in a moment...but first I have to get the room keys for 'Sigi'.
(Jim had previously booked 'Sigi' a room at the Winter Palace before the trip to Berlin).
After collecting 'Sigi's keys, Faunus, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' all passed through the main entrance hall of the hotel, and made their way to the steps on the other side of the building that led down to the gardens.
Jim was sitting on the grass, a short distance from the steps.
Faunus and the 'boys' and Teddy joined Jim, and one of the waiters brought them drinks.
The waiter offered to bring them chairs, but Jim said they were quite happy to sit on the beautifully mown grass.
Teddy had never walked - or sat - before on grass, and found the whole experience very interesting, and in no time Sekhmet and Bastet had joined him, looking to be stroked.
So Jim then started questioning Faunus, while Teddy sat on the grass, with Sekhmet and Bastet lying either side of him, enjoying the attention they were getting, and Ethan sipped his Pepsi Max.....the first he had drunk for some time, as there was no such thing as Pepsi Max in the 1920s.
"So why are you back so soon ?", Jim asked
"Well, there was a problem with Khonsu....", Faunus replied.
"Now that's interesting.....
Just this morning I went to see Ismail, on the West, Bank about this Nile cruise, and we got to talking, and he mentioned that he was very suspicious about Khonsu....", Jim said.
"Well it's not surprising...a blond blue-eyed boy hanging around in a village in Upper Egypt, dressed like an Egyptian, speaking the local Arab dialect....
And the only reason I was not all that suspicious was the fact that he was familiar with Sheikh Ahmed...", Faunus said.
"So why didn't your telepathic abilities tell you there was a problem ?", Ethan asked.
"Well nothing showed up...", Faunus said.
Jim caught 'Sigi', at that moment, looking suspiciously at Faunus and Ethan.
"Yes, 'Sigi'....in case you haven't guessed already....Faunus can read people's thoughts....", Jim confirmed.
"Well I'd better be careful what I'm thinking...", 'Sigi' said, with a faint trace of a smile.
"Anyway, what was the problem with Khonsu..", Jim asked.
 |
| The Earth seen from the Moon |
 |
| Radiation Belts Round the Earth |
"So...the question is - what was Khonsu trying to achieve by getting you, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' to go with him to Berlin ?", Jim asked.
"I'm not sure....
At first I thought that I couldn't detect any untoward thoughts on the part of Khonsu, simply because he had no such thoughts, but now I think he was able to shield his thinking from my probing, which probably means that he is no simple 'entity', but one of some considerable sophistication.", Faunus said.
"And there's me thinking he was so cute...", Ethan said, as he tickled Teddy's ear.
"So where do we go from here ?...", Jim asked.
"Well I think the best thing to do is to carry on with the original plan..", Faunus replied.
"You mean the Nile cruise ?"
"Yes...", Faunus said in reply to Jim's question.
"And you can take 'Sigi' with you, as well as the others, and I'll stay here at the hotel and study these two cats....just in case they've been planted on us.", Faunus added.
"And what about Ismail ? - I did make a deal with him....", Jim said.
"Yes, take him along..he probably needs the money, and the experience will be good for him.", Faunus agreed.
"Did you hear that, my furry little friends... you are going to stay with nice 'uncle' Faunus.", Ethan said to Sekhmet and Bastet, tickling each one under the chin.
"Well I want to have a bath, and relax...so I'll see all of you later - for dinner. " Jim said.
"And I need to give Teddy a good brush - so what are you going to do, 'Sigi' ?", Ethan said.
"Well where are the others ?, Sigi asked.
"Out shopping..but they'll be back soon...so I suggest that we all meet again for dinner.", Jim said.
 |
| 'Sigi's Bedroom - Winter Palace - Luxor |
Meanwhile Teddy received a very thorough brushing from Ethan, and 'Sigi' went to his room for a quiet nap.
After Jim had finished his shower, he 'phoned Ismail and let him know that they would be setting off in the morning.
Then it was just a matter of waiting until it was time for dinner.
Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' were very glad to be back, even if they didn't say so.
They had found the atmosphere in Berlin unnerving, as the recent, (at that time), defeat of Germany, the abdication of the Kaiser, the new government of the Weimar Republic, the unemployment and inflation, and the political instability had all given the city and unpleasant and disturbing atmosphere.
 |
| Sunset over the Nile - Luxor - Egypt |
Eventually Ethan decided that Teddy was well brushed, and looking his best.
"Well, Teddy what are you going to say at dinner about our Nile cruise ?", Ethan asked.
Teddy looked puzzled for a moment.
"..'not sure....this has all come as a bit of a rush, and I haven't got any 'visual-aids' ready.", Teddy replied, sounding unusually hesitant.
"Not to worry - just give it your best..", Ethan said encouragingly.
And so they all gathered in the '1886 Restaurant', but Teddy still refused to use the elevator to go down to the first floor where the restaurant was situated, but nobody questioned the fact.
Elevators were - quite rightly - now seen as more that just a means of travelling from one floor to another......
"Well, Teddy what are you going to say at dinner about our Nile cruise ?", Ethan asked.
Teddy looked puzzled for a moment.
"..'not sure....this has all come as a bit of a rush, and I haven't got any 'visual-aids' ready.", Teddy replied, sounding unusually hesitant.
"Not to worry - just give it your best..", Ethan said encouragingly.
And so they all gathered in the '1886 Restaurant', but Teddy still refused to use the elevator to go down to the first floor where the restaurant was situated, but nobody questioned the fact.
Elevators were - quite rightly - now seen as more that just a means of travelling from one floor to another......
(so if you, dear reader, are ever in an elevator with a button marked 33 - don't press it, unless Faunus or Teddy are with you).
 |
| '1886 Restaurant' - Winter Palace - Luxor - Egypt |
Zac was particularly pleased to see Ethan and Teddy, as he had been worried about their safety in Berlin, which he knew was a dangerous city to be visiting at the time that they had gone there.
Everyone, however, was wondering about where Faunus might be....
"Don't worry..", Jim said, as he took his seat.
"Faunus is spending some time getting to know the cats, and who knows, later he might have some information for us."
As they all sat down to begin their meal, Glen and Max were particularly interested to hear all about what had happened.
Ethan, of course, was only too willing to provide a story of 'high adventure' (the 'Mission to Berlin'), although, as we know (if we have been following the story - as we should), it wasn't really all that exciting, although it was set in 'creepy' Weimar Berlin, along with equally 'creepy' Baronen (Freiherr) like von Braun.
What did surprise everybody was the fact that this particular episode seemed to have been a complete waste of time, and possibly yet another 'game' that was played by those 'pesky aliens', as Ethan described them.
But what that 'game' was, none of them, including Faunus,had been able to explain.
"So...tomorrow morning we are setting off on our Nile cruise...", Jim began.
 |
| Los Angeles International Airport |
|
| Dahabiya 'Hadeel' - River Nile |
It's about 125 miles by boat from Luxor to Aswan, and we shall be travelling in a type of boat known in Arabic as a Dahabiya.
Teddy tells me that 'dahab' is Arabic for gold, and refers to the gold leaf decoration of the old versions of these boats, which were originally built for royalty, or high officials, during the Ottoman period.
The 'Dahabiya' that I have hired for our journey, which is called the 'Hadeel', doesn't have gold leaf decoration, but is very luxurious, and has large cabins, so really it is like a small floating hotel.
There is also a restaurant, and a small - very small - pool on deck.
But anyway, I'll leave it to Teddy to tell you exactly where we are going and what we'll be seeing.", Jim concluded.
Teddy, who was sitting on the table beside Ethan began his short talk.
"Well these places sound so much more exotic than Berlin...", Teddy began.
Teddy was obviously still sulking about being dragged off to a grey, murky Weimar Berlin.
"The 'Hadeel' has a berth booked on the corniche, opposite the main entrance to the Winter Palace - so have some thing packed as we shall be away from the Winter Palace for about two weeks.
We start with a a short cruise to Esna.
 |
| Temple at Esna - River Nile - Egypt |
The Temple of Esna, dedicated to the god Khnum, his consorts Menhit and Nebtu, their son, Heka, and the goddess Neith.
The Temple is a fine example of Ptolemaic architecture.
The temple, however, is now about nine meters below street level.
For some reason, almost all the feluccas that you see in Luxor, were built in Esna.
There are often delays at Esna because of bridges that form locks, crossing the Nile.
The next stop will be Edfu.
Edfu - إدفو in Arabic - is located on the West Bank of the Nile, between Esna and Aswan.
About 3 miles south of Edfu are also remains of ancient pyramids.
 |
| Sanctuary in the Temple at Edfu |
The town is mainly known for a large Ptolemaic Temple, built between 237 BC and 57 BC, into the reign of Cleopatra VII.
The temple was dedicated to Horus, who was identified as Apollo, is one of the best preserved temples in all Egypt.
The temple was built in the Ptolemaic Kingdom between 237 and 57 BC.
The inscriptions on its walls provide important information on language, myth and religion during the Hellenistic period in Egypt.
In particular, the Temple's inscribed 'building texts' provide details of its construction, and also preserve information about the mythical interpretation of the 'First Time ' as represented in this and all other temples as the Island of Creation.
The next stop will be at Kom Ombo.
The Temple of Kom Ombo is an unusual double temple.
It was constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty, 180–47 BC.
Some additions to it were later made during the Roman period.
The building is unique because its 'double' design meant that there were courts, halls, sanctuaries and rooms duplicated for two sets of gods.
The southern half of the temple was dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, creator of the world with Hathor and Khonsu.
The northern part of the temple was dedicated to the falcon god Horus the Elder.
The temple is atypical, because everything is perfectly symmetrical along the main axis.
It is not as well preserved as Edfu Temple, but a few of the three hundred crocodile mummies discovered in the vicinity are displayed in the nearby Crocodile Museum.
Our eventual destination will be Aswan.
Aswan - أسوان in Arabic - and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.
Aswan is a busy market center located just north of the Aswan Dam on the East Bank of the Nile at the first cataract.
The area around Aswan is famous for its stunning scenery.
The main historical site of interest is at Agilkia Island - an island in the reservoir of the Old Aswan Dam.
The temples of Philae were dismantled and moved to Agilkia Island as part of the 'Nubia Campaign' project, protecting this and other complexes before the completion of the Aswan High Dam.
The main temple was built to honor the goddess Isis, and this was the last temple built in the classical Egyptian style.
Construction began around 690 BC, and it was also one of the last outposts where the goddess was worshiped.
The cult of Isis continued here until at least AD 550
Also included on the island is the Temple of Hathor, decorated with reliefs of musicians - including an ape playing the lute - and Bes, the god of childbirth.
South of this, is a very elegant pavilion by the water’s edge known as the 'Kiosk of Trajan'.
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| 'Old Cataract Hotel' - Aswan - Egypt |
Our cruise will end with a stay at the 'Old Cataract Hotel', which is a historic British 'colonial-era', five star luxury hotel located on the banks of the River Nile.
Throughout our cruise, we will be preceded by the limousines, which will be available to take us to the various sites.
And that's about it, 'boys'...", Teddy said, in conclusion.
The 'boys', as Teddy called them, looked at one another, seemingly stunned at the somewhat complex itinerary.
"Oh...and I'm sorry I didn't have any 'visual-aids'...like a map or something, but I've only just got back from Berlin, and didn't have any time.", Teddy added.
"Well we thought you did very well...and it sounds like it's going to be a very interesting and a very comfortable cruise....", Jim said.
And the others all nodded in agreement.
 |
| Franklin |
In addition, there was, at the very top, Franklin who was in charge of the detailed, daily running of all the businesses and, of course, Josh who was the direct liaison between Franklin and Jim (although Josh was in Egypt with Jim)
 |
| The 'Boss' |
Much of Jim's wealth also originated in digital and telecommunications outlets, but that was all the work, not surprisingly, of Franklin.
 |
| California Combat Club - Las Vegas |
There was a lot for Jim to keep track of - but in almost every case the graphs, indicating expansion and income were showing upward trends, and the dollars were rolling in.
So after the dinner Jim, Ethan and Teddy took Zac and Josh to their private suite.
So after the dinner Jim, Ethan and Teddy took Zac and Josh to their private suite.
 |
| Park Hotel - Club Athena - Las Vegas - Nevada |
Via that connection Jim was able to view all the relevant information with regard to situation of the various divisions of the corporation.
Jim then focused on the original business that the 'Boss' had set up - once known as 'Club Jaguar', but by then known as 'Club Athena'.
The good news was that since the 'club' - which was also an hotel, complete with restaurants and two casinos - had been completely refurbished, its takings had dramatically increased.
Jim was pleased, as it was often the case that with such a 'personal' business as an hotel, casino or restaurant, and change of 'identity' - even in a name, could cause a dramatic decline in 'takings'.
 |
| Aaron at the Paradise Park Hotel - Club Athena - Las Vegas - Nevada |
Again, the news was good.
Although Aaron had not become and 'overnight sensation', he was undoubtedly holding his own in the very competitive market that existed in 'Vegas.
 |
| Brody at the 'California Combat Club' |
This was a project that had been created by the 'Boss' as a substitute for his beloved Amphitheater at Baiae.
Of course Jim and Zac had been intimately involved with the Baiae Amphitheater, but it was obviously not possible to run such an establishment in contemporary America.
The nearest that the 'Boss' could achieve in recreating institution was a 'hard-core' wrestling venue, and 'Vegas was an ideal location as 'Vegas was very much a 'laissez faire' environment.
 |
| Brody at the 'California Combat Club' |
Fortunately Kurt - the manager of the 'California Combat Club' had left some detailed reports of some of the latest fights at the club, along with some photos taken by the 'in-house' photographer, Adam.
It seemed that Brody was still playing the role of a cute 'jobber' - but not all the time, just to keep the 'punters' off balance with regard to where they put their money.
Kurt Kurt is a young 'associate' of the 'Boss' who has taken over the management of the prestigious 'California Combat Club'. Having practiced numerous combat sports himself in the past, he is an accomplished trainer, with an excellent eye for new talent. He also has an excellent appreciation of the requirements of the sophisticated and wealthy audience who attend the 'spectacles' offered by the California Combat Club. We first meet Kurt in Chapter XIV - 'A New Beginning', when he supervises the auditions of the two new wrestlers, Damien and Brody. Kurt always carries a Beretta 92FS - and will not hesitate to use it in order to protect the 'Boss' - or any of his associates.
Adam - in House Photographer
At about eight o'clock the bellhops arrived to transfer the luggage from the rooms to the 'Hadeel' - the elegant Dahabiya that would be their home for the next week or so.
But first there was breakfast.
"So what happened to the cats last night ?..", Ethan asked, as they made their way down to breakfast.
"I think they stayed in Faunus' suite.", Jim replied.
It was a hurried breakfast, as everyone was aware that the captain of the Dahabiya was keen to get away.
Dahabiyas cruise very slowly, and it was intended to arrive at Esna in time to view the temple and then maneuver through the locks in good time - and it should also be understood that the Dahabiya moored for the night at the river bank each evening.
The three Mercedes Maybach Pullman Limousines were parked by the corniche, waiting to set off and follow the 'Hadeel' as it cruised down the Nile - ensuring that there would always be transport to the various sites and tourist spots at each of the various destinations.
And so the 'boys', all looking suitable 'cool', elegant and casual, made their way up the 'gang-plank' to be greeted by the 'rayees' (ريس or captain) of the 'Hadeel'.
"This is really 'dinky'...", Ethan said, as he sat Teddy on one of the low tables, and surveyed the main lounge.
"So now we've got our very own 'Pirate-Ship -thingy'....
I think this evening Teddy and I will watch 'Peter Pan'...", Ethan continued, obviously excited by being on a boat.
Of course, in a strange way, Ethan, Jim, and some of the other 'boys' did resemble 'Peter Pan', and in some way they too were 'lost boys'.
Jim, however, was nervous....
haunted by memories of a far distant time.....
It was on a boat - about the same size as the one they were now aboard - although of a very different design - that, in 'another time' and 'another place', all his adventures began - but that boat trip ended with the death of his now almost forgotten parents, and an encounter with real pirates and eventually slavery.
Of course all that happened a long time before Jim (Marcus) had met Ethan (Aurarius).
"So...have you seen Ismail ?", Jim asked, snapping out of his uncomfortable reverie.
"Not yet...", Ethan replied.
"Oh, so you're bringing him along...", Teddy said, sounding disgruntled.
"Yes, Teddy, but not as a 'replacement guide' - just to help him a bit... he needs the money,", Jim tried to explain, wishing he had told Teddy earlier.
"OK....I'll accept your apology..", Teddy said, still not entirely convinced.
Jim, of course, hadn't meant his explanation as an apology, but thought it best not to argue the point.
Jim then opened his cell-phone in order to find out if Ismail was on his way, and to tell him the name of the Dahabiya, which he foolishly had omitted to tell Ismail, while Ethan went on deck to see if he could see Ismail anywhere on the Corniche.
Almost immediately Ethan came back into the cabin....
"Ismail's wandering about near the Winter Palace, with a backpack, looking lost...", Ethan said.
"Well get him to come on board...", Jim said.
"Okey-dokey....but don't let the boat go off without me...", Ethan said.
Jim followed Ethan on deck, while the 'boys' watched Ethan trying to avoid the tangle of ropes and
"So what happened to the cats last night ?..", Ethan asked, as they made their way down to breakfast.
"I think they stayed in Faunus' suite.", Jim replied.
It was a hurried breakfast, as everyone was aware that the captain of the Dahabiya was keen to get away.
Dahabiyas cruise very slowly, and it was intended to arrive at Esna in time to view the temple and then maneuver through the locks in good time - and it should also be understood that the Dahabiya moored for the night at the river bank each evening.
The three Mercedes Maybach Pullman Limousines were parked by the corniche, waiting to set off and follow the 'Hadeel' as it cruised down the Nile - ensuring that there would always be transport to the various sites and tourist spots at each of the various destinations.
 |
| Main Lounge - 'Hadeel' |
"This is really 'dinky'...", Ethan said, as he sat Teddy on one of the low tables, and surveyed the main lounge.
"So now we've got our very own 'Pirate-Ship -thingy'....
I think this evening Teddy and I will watch 'Peter Pan'...", Ethan continued, obviously excited by being on a boat.
 |
| Pirate Ship - Peter Pan |
Peter Pan is a fictional character created by Scottish novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie. A free-spirited and mischievous boy who can fly, and never grows up (remind you of anyone ?), Peter Pan spends his never-ending boyhood having adventures on the island of 'Neverland' as the 'leader' of the 'Lost Boys' (remind you of anyone ?), interacting with fairies (aliens), pirates, mermaids, Native Americans, and occasionally ordinary people from the world outside 'Neverland'.
 |
| Ancient Roman Merchant Ship |
haunted by memories of a far distant time.....
It was on a boat - about the same size as the one they were now aboard - although of a very different design - that, in 'another time' and 'another place', all his adventures began - but that boat trip ended with the death of his now almost forgotten parents, and an encounter with real pirates and eventually slavery.
Of course all that happened a long time before Jim (Marcus) had met Ethan (Aurarius).
"So...have you seen Ismail ?", Jim asked, snapping out of his uncomfortable reverie.
"Not yet...", Ethan replied.
"Oh, so you're bringing him along...", Teddy said, sounding disgruntled.
"Yes, Teddy, but not as a 'replacement guide' - just to help him a bit... he needs the money,", Jim tried to explain, wishing he had told Teddy earlier.
"OK....I'll accept your apology..", Teddy said, still not entirely convinced.
Jim, of course, hadn't meant his explanation as an apology, but thought it best not to argue the point.
Jim then opened his cell-phone in order to find out if Ismail was on his way, and to tell him the name of the Dahabiya, which he foolishly had omitted to tell Ismail, while Ethan went on deck to see if he could see Ismail anywhere on the Corniche.
Almost immediately Ethan came back into the cabin....
"Ismail's wandering about near the Winter Palace, with a backpack, looking lost...", Ethan said.
"Well get him to come on board...", Jim said.
"Okey-dokey....but don't let the boat go off without me...", Ethan said.
Jim followed Ethan on deck, while the 'boys' watched Ethan trying to avoid the tangle of ropes and
hawsers on the corniche as he ran to make contact with Ismail.
Eventually, with all on board, stewards showed everyone to their cabins.
"Bit cramped, isn't it...?", Ethan said as he entered the cabin with Jim.
"Ethan, remember that you're on a boat on a river.
It's not a hotel, or an ocean liner - just a small boat.", Jim replied.
"..suppose so..", Ethan said.
"Well.... it's quite big enough for me...", Teddy said, "but can you get one of the stewards to get some more pillows, or cushions from somewhere...?", Teddy asked.
So by the time everyone had unpacked, the Hadeel set sail (literally), and headed for its first destination....Esna.
Now Esna was not really a tourist destination but rather and untidy little town situated on the Nile.
Its only redeeming feature was what little remained of a once very large Ptolemaic Temple - so very few tourists visited Esna - unless they were on a hurried, cheap one day Nile cruise, or maybe a more expensive cruise.
The resurgence of Dahabiyas on the Nile - as foreign tourists took advantage of the decline of the Egyptian Pound, had meant in recent years that the numbers of tourists visiting Esna had increased, but visitors normally only stayed for a morning, or an afternoon.
 |
| Cabin on the Hadeel - Nile River - Egypt |
"Bit cramped, isn't it...?", Ethan said as he entered the cabin with Jim.
"Ethan, remember that you're on a boat on a river.
It's not a hotel, or an ocean liner - just a small boat.", Jim replied.
"..suppose so..", Ethan said.
"Well.... it's quite big enough for me...", Teddy said, "but can you get one of the stewards to get some more pillows, or cushions from somewhere...?", Teddy asked.
So by the time everyone had unpacked, the Hadeel set sail (literally), and headed for its first destination....Esna.
Now Esna was not really a tourist destination but rather and untidy little town situated on the Nile.
Its only redeeming feature was what little remained of a once very large Ptolemaic Temple - so very few tourists visited Esna - unless they were on a hurried, cheap one day Nile cruise, or maybe a more expensive cruise.
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| Top Deck - Dahabiya Hadeel - Egypt |
"So what happened to Faunus...?", Glen asked Ethan, as they stood on the top deck, watching the banks of the Nile slip by.
"I think he must have stayed at the Winter Palace, with Sekhmet and Bastet....probably glad to have a little time on his own...", Ethan replied.
"So tell me , Ethan, what actually happened on your little trip a couple of days ago ?", Glen asked.
"Well, it was another one of those things involving 'aliens' - not that we met any - unless you count Khonsu...", Ethan said.
"Yes...I thought that guy Khonsu was a bit weird...so you think he's an 'alien' - like in disguise." Glen added.
"Well that's what Faunus says...but anyway, the whole trip came to nothing...it seems that it was just another of those 'games' that the 'aliens' play.
But I jut wish they would leave us alone.", Ethan said, not wanting to give too much away.
"Anyway...Jim seems to agree, and he now wants us to just have an ordinary vacation.", Ethan concluded.
"Well I've nearly forgotten what it's like back in 'Vegas.....", Glen said, almost wistfully.
By then it was nearly time for lunch, and Ethan returned to his cabin.
"Time for lunch !", Ethan said to Jim, who was relaxing on the bed, and talking to Teddy.
Teddy had decided to stay in the cabin (as he did not eat) - and he was also beginning to think of the cabin, as it was not large, as his own private space.
Now while Ethan was a little dissatisfied with the size of his cabin, the Dahabiya did have a reasonably sized dining room.
"This 'boat-thingy' reminds me of a very small version of the Winter Palace...", Ethan said to Jim, as they took their seats.
"Yes, but it's not old, like the Winter Palace, it's just pretending to be old.
The original Dahabiyas were called 'House-Boats' by Europeans, and were usually owned by very rich families, often aristocratic, and related to Egyptian Royalty.
A little later Dahabiyas were used by wealthy Europeans as a way of visiting Egypt when there were very few good quality hotels.
So this boat is attempting to bring back those earlier times - but they are still very expensive to hire.", Jim explained.
"And how do you know all this ?", Ethan asked.
"Well Teddy told me - of course...", Jim replied, with a smile.
"So, let's see what the food tastes like....Ethan said.
The lunch was good - there was a good supply of 'Pepsi Max' on board - Ethan was teaching the Egyptian chef how to make cheese-burgers, and so Ethan was not quite so upset that the 'bedrooms' (cabins) were not as big on a boat as in a hotel.
Then, in the middle of Ethan's cheeseburger instructions, Captain Hossam announced that they were coming in sight of Esna.
"Oh yes...when I was at Cairo University we were taught all about the different Egyptian gods an I remember some things about Khnum.", Ismail said confidently.
The skilled chauffeurs drove slowly and carefully, eventually depositing the 'boys' in a street overlooking the huge excavated area in which the temple stood.
The part that is currently visible is around a quarter of the size of the original building.
On the south side of the outer wall the Roman Emperor Domitian is shown smiting his enemies in the presence of Khnum and Menhet, while the north side shows the Roman Emperor Trajan smiting his enemies.", Teddy explained.
As added visual aids, Teddy had also included a nice, shiny laminated picture of a reconstruction of the temple as it had been first re-constructed under the Ptolemies, and also a small plan, showing the part of the temple so far excavated (in grey), and the greater part (in brown), that was still buried.
"So tell me , Ethan, what actually happened on your little trip a couple of days ago ?", Glen asked.
"Well, it was another one of those things involving 'aliens' - not that we met any - unless you count Khonsu...", Ethan said.
"Yes...I thought that guy Khonsu was a bit weird...so you think he's an 'alien' - like in disguise." Glen added.
"Well that's what Faunus says...but anyway, the whole trip came to nothing...it seems that it was just another of those 'games' that the 'aliens' play.
But I jut wish they would leave us alone.", Ethan said, not wanting to give too much away.
"Anyway...Jim seems to agree, and he now wants us to just have an ordinary vacation.", Ethan concluded.
"Well I've nearly forgotten what it's like back in 'Vegas.....", Glen said, almost wistfully.
By then it was nearly time for lunch, and Ethan returned to his cabin.
"Time for lunch !", Ethan said to Jim, who was relaxing on the bed, and talking to Teddy.
Teddy had decided to stay in the cabin (as he did not eat) - and he was also beginning to think of the cabin, as it was not large, as his own private space.
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| Dahabiya Hadeel - Dining room set for Lunch |
"This 'boat-thingy' reminds me of a very small version of the Winter Palace...", Ethan said to Jim, as they took their seats.
"Yes, but it's not old, like the Winter Palace, it's just pretending to be old.
The original Dahabiyas were called 'House-Boats' by Europeans, and were usually owned by very rich families, often aristocratic, and related to Egyptian Royalty.
A little later Dahabiyas were used by wealthy Europeans as a way of visiting Egypt when there were very few good quality hotels.
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| 19th Century Dahabiyas - Contemporary Photo |
"And how do you know all this ?", Ethan asked.
"Well Teddy told me - of course...", Jim replied, with a smile.
"So, let's see what the food tastes like....Ethan said.
The lunch was good - there was a good supply of 'Pepsi Max' on board - Ethan was teaching the Egyptian chef how to make cheese-burgers, and so Ethan was not quite so upset that the 'bedrooms' (cabins) were not as big on a boat as in a hotel.
Then, in the middle of Ethan's cheeseburger instructions, Captain Hossam announced that they were coming in sight of Esna.
"Well perhaps we should get back to Teddy, and also speak to Ismail, and see how this visit to Esna is to be managed...", Jim said.إسنا (Esna - Koinē Greek: Λατόπολις Latópolis - Latin: Lato), is a city in Egypt, located on the West Bank of the Nile, some 35 miles south of Luxor. The town was formerly part of the Qena Governorate, but now is incorporated into the Luxor Governorate. Two barrage bridges straddle the Nile at this point: one built by the British in 1906, and the so called 'Electricity Bridge'. Navigation, particularly, Nile cruisers ferrying tourists, and Dahabiyas from Luxor to Aswan 70 miles further upstream, can be held up for hours while vessels negotiate their way through the lock system. The two main points of interest in Esna are its 'lively' tourist-oriented market, which fills a couple of streets leading inland from the corniche. The other is the temple of Esna. The temple, which has only been partially excavated, is about 200 meters from the river, and some 9 meters below street level !
Esna Corniche - River Nile - Egypt
So Teddy and Ismail met in the main lounge of the 'Hadeel'.
"And what do you know about the Temple at Esna ?", Teddy asked.
"Not very much..I've never been there...", Ismail answered.
"Well neither have I, Ismail, but I do have some information on my 'data-base..." Teddy said.
"So the Temple is dedicated to Khnum....do you know anything about Khnum ?", Teddy then asked.
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| Khnum - Ptolemaic Relief |
"OK, then you tells us all about Khnum, and I'll tell the group about the layout, style and history of the temple - if that's alright with you...?", Teddy said, trying to be very diplomatic.
Ismail agreed, and they set off with the others down the rather shaky gang-plank to the Corniche.
Waiting on the road that rand along the side of the Corniche were the three limousines.
It was only a very short distance from the Corniche to the temple, but Esna was always very crowded, and between Corniche and the temple was the 'souq' (bazaar), and there were always many insistent sellers on hand as soon as a large cruise-boat or Dahabiya moored.
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| Steps to the Temple |
It was indeed a very strange sight - a seemingly well preserved ancient Egyptian building surrounded by modern buildings, and standing in what amounted to a large hole in the ground.
"Mm...not really very impressive, and rather weird looking...", Ethan commented, as they climbed down a long flight of rickety looking steps leading into the excavation site to view the temple.
"Now Ismail, why don't you tell us something about Khnum ?", Jim suggested.
Ismail looked embarrassed, but then began talking as they made their way to the rather odd looking rusty gates that served as an entrance.
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| Temple of Khnum - Esna - Egypt |
"Khnum - which is sometimes Romanised as 'Khnemu' - was one of the earliest-known Egyptian gods.
He was originally the god of the source of the Nile.
Now the annual flooding of the Nile brought with it mud and clay.
This rich earth and the water brought life to the dry land ... so Khnum was thought to be the god who made the bodies of human children, which he made at a potter's wheel, from clay, and then put in their mothers' wombs.
He was later thought to have moulded the bodies of the other gods.
Because of this he had the titles 'Divine Potter' and 'Lord of Created Things from Himself'.
The worship of Khnum was found in two sites on the Nile.
One was at Elephantine, and the other was here at Esna.
These were regarded as sacred sites.
At Elephantine, he was worshiped with the gods Satis and Anuket.
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| Pyramid of Khufu - Giza - Cairo |
At Esna, he was worshiped with Menhit, Nebtu, Neith and Heka.
Khnum was thought of as the 'guardian' of the source of the Nile River.
His name was often used in children's names, such as 'Khnum-Khufwy' - which means 'Khnum is my Protector', which was the full name of 'Khufu', whose pyramid you saw at Giza."
And so Ismail finished his talk, having surprised himself that he had done so well...and by the time he had finished the group was at the entrance to the temple.
"Well, that was very good, Ismail ....", Jim said, as they eventually reached the main portico of the temple.
And so Teddy began his 'mini-lecture'.... complete with the apparently 'compulsory' visual aids.
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| Pharaoh Tuthmosis III |
"The temple was originally constructed during the 18th Dynasty by the Pharaoh Tuthmosis III.", Teddy began.
"Later it fell into disrepair, and was unused for many years.
The temple we see now was reconstructed during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods - 332 BC to 641 AD - and was one of the last temples built in Egypt.".
And Max interrupted....
"So it's not really Egyptian ?".
"No...it's Ptolemaic or Hellenistic - and even some parts are Roman, Max...", Teddy agreed..
"and you can probably see that it looks different to the temples in Luxor.", Teddy added.
"The oldest part of the existing temple is the rear wall which was the façade of the original temple.
The reliefs on that wall depict the Greek Pharaohs Ptolemy VI and Ptolemy VIII.
The temple is built of red sandstone, and for many centuries it was covered by the mud from the Nile, and many parts have still to be excavated.
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| Architectural Rendering of the Temple Façade showing 'Screen Walls' and 'Split Pylon' - Esna Temple |
The temple façade is 121 feet long and 50 feet high."
Teddy then asked Ethan to put him down, and then got Ethan to hand out out the 'visual aids which are usual were in Teddy's plastic bag.
Teddy then asked Ethan to put him down, and then got Ethan to hand out out the 'visual aids which are usual were in Teddy's plastic bag.
Teddy then referred them all to an architectural rendering of the temple façade.
"Like most Ptolemaic temples, Esna temple features 'screen walls' inset between the outer columns.
"Like most Ptolemaic temples, Esna temple features 'screen walls' inset between the outer columns.
At the top of the façade is a 'cavetto cornice', with a winged sun in the center, and on either side are the names of the Roman Emperors Claudius and Vespasian in cartouches."
"What's the 'cavetto-thingy' ?", Ethan asked.
As Teddy was in a good mood he didn't make a fuss about being interrupted - and Ethan wisely decided not to ask what a 'façade' was.
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| Example of an Egyptian Cavetto Moulding |
"A cavetto is a concave molding with a regular curved profile that is part of a circle - the prominent 'cavetto cornice' is a common feature of the ancient architecture of Egypt and the Ancient Near East."
Then Teddy continued......
"The reliefs on the façade show the cartouches of Pharaohs and Roman Emperors, before many of the deities from Upper Egypt, and a frieze of the 'gods' - the 'neteru', can be seen along the base of the façade.
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| Reconstruction of Esna Temple |
As added visual aids, Teddy had also included a nice, shiny laminated picture of a reconstruction of the temple as it had been first re-constructed under the Ptolemies, and also a small plan, showing the part of the temple so far excavated (in grey), and the greater part (in brown), that was still buried.
Egyptian temples normally consist of the Pylon or gateway, a courtyard, a Hypostyle hall and the sanctuary.
The Pylon of this temple, which was constructed of mud brick, was destroyed by the Nile, and only the courtyard and Hypostyle hall remain visible.
In the courtyard at the front of the temple there is a statue of the goddess Menhet who was a lion-headed war goddess and who was the consort of Khnum.", Teddy continued.
By that time they had moved into the Hypostyle Hall with its many columns.
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| Decorated Column - Esna Temple |
"Reliefs of the pair can be found in the Hypostyle hall.", Teddy said, indicating with his fluffy paw.
Teddy then removed his 'Farouk style' sunglasses,. and put on on his un-tinted glasses, as the area was roofed and quite dark.
Teddy then removed his 'Farouk style' sunglasses,. and put on on his un-tinted glasses, as the area was roofed and quite dark.
(remember, Teddy doesn't need glasses, and it is mere affectation on his part)
And so Teddy launched into the final part of his little lecture....
"The Hypostyle hall is supported by 24 columns, which are 37 feet high and 18 feet in circumference, with varied floral capitals.
And so Teddy launched into the final part of his little lecture....
"The Hypostyle hall is supported by 24 columns, which are 37 feet high and 18 feet in circumference, with varied floral capitals.
These types of capitals indicate that they date from Ptolemaic and Roman times.
Each of the columns is decorated with reliefs and inscriptions describing the religious festivals, and show several Roman emperors making offerings to the 'gods'.
Because the temple was encased in silt for so long, most of the coloring on the columns has survived, giving archaeologists an insight into the style of decoration in Ptolemaic and Roman times.
Because the temple was encased in silt for so long, most of the coloring on the columns has survived, giving archaeologists an insight into the style of decoration in Ptolemaic and Roman times.
On the walls are four rows of reliefs, also showing Roman Emperors dressed as Pharaohs, making offerings to the 'gods', or performing other rituals relating to the building of the temple.
In the middle of the rear (West) wall is a pylon-like doorway topped by a cavetto cornice, which would have led into the sanctuary.
In the middle of the rear (West) wall is a pylon-like doorway topped by a cavetto cornice, which would have led into the sanctuary.
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| Ceiling of the Temple at Esna - Egypt |
This doorway shows reliefs and inscriptions relating to the Greek Pharaoh Ptolemy VI 'Photometer' a Greek Hellenistic title meaning 'mother loving'.
The carvings on the south wall depict the Roman Emperors Domitian, Septimius Servius and Caracalla.
The ceiling of the Hypostyle hall - with its roof still intact - appears to be floating above the capitals.
This is achieved by resting the ceiling on square blocks hidden by the capitals themselves.
The central aisle ceiling is decorated with two rows of flying vultures while the side aisles show astronomical figures and signs.
On each side of the entrance to the temple are chambers which were used as storerooms or robing rooms by the priests."
Teddy paused for a moment.
The'boys' were unsure if they should congratulate him, or if he had more to say.
Being Teddy...he had more to say....
"Now many Egyptologists are critical of Ptolemaic art and architecture - but, being a mixture of Egyptian tradition, the the new developments in art and design made by the Greeks and the Roman, I think that Ptolemaic art is, apart from the art of the Saite Dynasty, the finest in Egyptian history, particularly from the point of view of originality and technique." Teddy began.
"And what's this 'Saite-Dynasty -thingy' ?...", Ethan asked.
"Well, nothing that you should worry about.
It was a late period in Egyptian history - just before the Ptolemies, when the capital of Egypt was in a city called Sais near the Delta...."
"So....shall we go, Teddy ? Jim asked.
"Oh yes...this is all there is to see....the rest is under the town...", Teddy replied.
"And what about the town ?...", Zac asked.
"Well I don't know, Zac...I don't really have any information about Esna, apart from the temple...", Teddy replied.
So .....there is something that Teddy doesn't know about....", Glen said.
"Of course...", Teddy answered, sounding a little put out.
"Well let's walk back through the souq, but keep your hand on your wallets, and watch out for pickpockets....the market's very crowded.", Jim suggested.
After a very few steps, however, the 'boys', who were badly hassled by the locals, and who had been spoiled by the Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, decided to get back in the limousines, and ride back to the 'Hadeel'.
Teddy paused for a moment.
The'boys' were unsure if they should congratulate him, or if he had more to say.
Being Teddy...he had more to say....
"Now many Egyptologists are critical of Ptolemaic art and architecture - but, being a mixture of Egyptian tradition, the the new developments in art and design made by the Greeks and the Roman, I think that Ptolemaic art is, apart from the art of the Saite Dynasty, the finest in Egyptian history, particularly from the point of view of originality and technique." Teddy began.
"And what's this 'Saite-Dynasty -thingy' ?...", Ethan asked.
"Well, nothing that you should worry about.
It was a late period in Egyptian history - just before the Ptolemies, when the capital of Egypt was in a city called Sais near the Delta...."
The Twenty-sixth Dynasty of Egypt was the last native dynasty to rule Egypt. The dynasty's reign (664–525 BC) is also called the 'Saite Period' after the city of Sais, where its pharaohs had their capital, and marks the beginning of the 'Late Period' of ancient Egypt."But anyway, the other temples that you will see on this cruise are Ptolemaic, and are characterized by excellent design, and fine carvings and decorations....", Teddy concluded, realizing that the 'boys' were not really 'into' the development of artistic styles - except in as far as it involved male fashion.......
"So....shall we go, Teddy ? Jim asked.
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| Khan el-Khalili - Cairo - Egypt |
"And what about the town ?...", Zac asked.
"Well I don't know, Zac...I don't really have any information about Esna, apart from the temple...", Teddy replied.
So .....there is something that Teddy doesn't know about....", Glen said.
"Of course...", Teddy answered, sounding a little put out.
"Well let's walk back through the souq, but keep your hand on your wallets, and watch out for pickpockets....the market's very crowded.", Jim suggested.
After a very few steps, however, the 'boys', who were badly hassled by the locals, and who had been spoiled by the Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, decided to get back in the limousines, and ride back to the 'Hadeel'.
Captain Hossam was on hand as the three huge Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Limousines pulled up near the moored Dahabiya.
Hossam, ever polite, expressed his pleasure that the 'boys' had enjoyed their afternoon excursion.
Wasting no time, the 'Hadeel' then pulled away from Esna, negotiated the locks, and then traveled a short distance upstream in order to find a suitable mooring for the night.
Jim, Ethan, Teddy and the 'boys' all made their way onto the main deck, which was partially laid out for dimmer.
"Well when I first came on board I thought it was a bit cramped, and not as luxurious as the Winter Palace, but now I'm getting to like it, particularly with this dining out, with the river, and the fine scenery...", Josh said, being unusually voluble.
"Yep....it's real 'cool'...", Ethan said, as he helped Max to rearrange the tables and chairs so that they could all sit in one group.
And so they took their evening meal, chatting about the strange, but oddly well preserved temple that they has seen that afternoon.
"So what's next on our cruise ?", Glen asked.
"Well, according to captain Hossam, we shall stay here for the night, and then travel up to Edfu.", Jim replied.
"And I suppose there's another temple there...", Max said, sounding a little disinterested.
"There is, Max, but the temple at Edfu is quite 'special'.....", Teddy replied, butting in.
"Yes....now I remember about this......
Novius told us about this temple while we were staying at the Villa Athena outside Los Angeles.", Josh said.
"Yes....and I made a record of what Novius told us....and it's very interesting...", Teddy added.
"So....what did our friend Novius tell us...?", Zac asked.
"Well... I think that I should really leave that until tomorrow....when we are actually at the temple...
But I will say that it is a very well preserved temple...and well worth a visit....", Teddy said. enticingly.
"And what do you say, Ismail."....Zac asked.
"I think that Teddy's right...", Ismail said, not wanting to 'steal Teddy's thunder'.
And so they relaxed an talked, tethered to the banks of the great, and seemingly timeless ,
Nile.
"I think it might be an idea to go to bed...it's probably going to be a busy day tomorrow...", Jim suggested to Ethan and Teddy.
"Yes....and I need to get my 'visual aids' for tomorrow printed off...and there's not enough cushions round here...", Teddy said.
So Jim, Ethan and Teddy left the others talking......
"You know....", Jim began, as they settled down in bed....."it was very strange when Teddy began talking about reliefs in the Temple at Edfu showing Vespasian.
You see what you might not know, Teddy, is that myself, Ethan, Zac and Josh all actually met Vespasian.", Jim said dreamily.
"Yes, that was in Rome....nice old guy...Vespasian....", Ethan added.
"Well actually, I did know....it was some of the information that Faunus gave me when he first 'set me up', as it were...", Teddy replied casually.
"I once though that Vespasian might adopt you, Jim, and then you would become emperor....and then it would be you up there on that temple wall....", Ethan said.
"But that pesky old 'volcano-thingy' put a stop to all that....",
Ethan concluded.
"Well that was all a long, long time ago....", Jim said.
The 'Hadeel' then cruises on to Kom Ombo and Edfu - on the way to Aswan, the Temple of Isis - and the 'Old Cataract Hotel'
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| 'Hadeel' - Main Deck - Early Evening - River Nile - Egypt |
Jim, Ethan, Teddy and the 'boys' all made their way onto the main deck, which was partially laid out for dimmer.
"Well when I first came on board I thought it was a bit cramped, and not as luxurious as the Winter Palace, but now I'm getting to like it, particularly with this dining out, with the river, and the fine scenery...", Josh said, being unusually voluble.
"Yep....it's real 'cool'...", Ethan said, as he helped Max to rearrange the tables and chairs so that they could all sit in one group.
And so they took their evening meal, chatting about the strange, but oddly well preserved temple that they has seen that afternoon.
"So what's next on our cruise ?", Glen asked.
"Well, according to captain Hossam, we shall stay here for the night, and then travel up to Edfu.", Jim replied.
"And I suppose there's another temple there...", Max said, sounding a little disinterested.
 |
| Edfu Temple - Upper Egypt - Nile River - Egypt |
"Yes....now I remember about this......
Novius told us about this temple while we were staying at the Villa Athena outside Los Angeles.", Josh said.
"Yes....and I made a record of what Novius told us....and it's very interesting...", Teddy added.
"So....what did our friend Novius tell us...?", Zac asked.
"Well... I think that I should really leave that until tomorrow....when we are actually at the temple...
But I will say that it is a very well preserved temple...and well worth a visit....", Teddy said. enticingly.
"And what do you say, Ismail."....Zac asked.
"I think that Teddy's right...", Ismail said, not wanting to 'steal Teddy's thunder'.
And so they relaxed an talked, tethered to the banks of the great, and seemingly timeless ,
Nile.
"I think it might be an idea to go to bed...it's probably going to be a busy day tomorrow...", Jim suggested to Ethan and Teddy.
"Yes....and I need to get my 'visual aids' for tomorrow printed off...and there's not enough cushions round here...", Teddy said.
So Jim, Ethan and Teddy left the others talking......
 |
| Vespasian |
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| Pompa for the Accession of Vespasian |
You see what you might not know, Teddy, is that myself, Ethan, Zac and Josh all actually met Vespasian.", Jim said dreamily.
"Yes, that was in Rome....nice old guy...Vespasian....", Ethan added.
"Well actually, I did know....it was some of the information that Faunus gave me when he first 'set me up', as it were...", Teddy replied casually.
"I once though that Vespasian might adopt you, Jim, and then you would become emperor....and then it would be you up there on that temple wall....", Ethan said.
"But that pesky old 'volcano-thingy' put a stop to all that....",
Ethan concluded.
"Well that was all a long, long time ago....", Jim said.
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2021
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2021
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 202