Ethan's white Cadillac Eldorado convertible is delivered - and he has his first driving lesson with 'Sigi' - the designer-guys meet Jim and Ethan to discuss a new cabin décor for the AirWest airline - Caleb and Jim have their second meeting - plans are made for the pipe organ for the 'Park Theatre' - Ethan starts work on the concert program - and Jim, Ethan and Teddy visit the 'Villa Athena', while Clare and Brody arrive back from Mexico
Teddy had been up most of the night - reading an online manual for Cadillac 'Eldorado' convertibles, checking through Spanish classical music, and learning about modern European pipe-organs.
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| Cadillac Eldorado Convertible - Publicity Photo |
And why was Teddy so concerned about the arrival of Ethan's Cadillac 'Eldorado' ?
Well because Teddy was planning to jump up and down on Ethan as soon as the auto arrived, in order to wake him up.
This was a strange quirk of Teddy's programming - a little like his obsessions with elevator buttons, cushions and pillows - and so far Jim had never got round to speaking to Faunus or Tony about correcting the matter.
And so the beautiful new white Cadillac convertible arrived, and Ethan found himself being rudely awoken by a seemingly demented teddy-bear.
"Teddy !- Get off ! - What's wrong !". Ethan moaned.
"The Cadillac's arrived !",Teddy exclaimed.
"OK - but I need a piano !", Ethan said, sitting up in bed.
"Why do you need a piano ?", Jim asked, by then completely awake - and completely confused.
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| Staff Paper (Manuscript Paper) |
"I need some staff paper - I've got an idea for the concert.", Ethan explained.
Staff paper (Manuscript paper in the UK) is paper pre-printed with music staffs ready for the insertion of musical notation. Sheet music is the basic form in which Western classical music is notated so that it can be learned and performed by solo singers or instrumentalists or musical ensembles
"OK, Ethan, but first get dressed, and go down and sign the handover papers for the Cadillac, and then we can talk about a piano.", Jim said, as he got out of bed.
Meanwhile Teddy started looking for some manuscript paper, in an attempt to help Ethan ...
So Ethan dressed, and took the elevator down to the ground floor, while Jim called Chuck and asked him to help Ethan with the 'paper-work', and also to park the Cadillac in the garage situated below the 'Penthouse Building'.
And Ethan then became the proud owner of his very first auto.
Jim dressed - went into the kitchen and did his best to prepare some breakfast,
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| Cadillac Owner's Manual |
Ethan, holding the various papers, along with the thick 'owner's manual,' then returned from signing for the newly delivered Cadillac.
An owner's manual (also called an 'instruction manual' or a 'user guide') is an instructional book or booklet that is supplied with almost all technologically advanced consumer products such as vehicles, home appliances and computer peripherals.
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| Penthouse Dining Room - Summerlin - Las Vegas - Nevada |
So what's this about a piano ?", Jim asked Ethan, as Teddy started reading the 'Cadillac Owners Manual'.
Teddy was in fact transferring the contents of the 'Cadillac' manual to his 'data base' for further use - just in case Ethan mislaid the manual - which Teddy thought was very likely.
Ancient Greek κιθάρα (Kithara)
Jim knew very little about music, or modern musical instruments - so in truth he didn't really know what a piano was - or at least the different types and styles of pianos that were available.
The nearest that Jim - as Marcus - had ever come to a piano was the κιθάρα (Kithara), which was nearer to the modern harp.
"Well I want to do some work on the music, here at the Penthouse...", Ethan explained.
Now Teddy, although he looked as if he was reading, he was in fact was also recording data - and also listening to Jim and Ethan at the same time.
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| 'Steinway' Concert Grand |
"What sort of piano did you require ?", Teddy asked.
"A big one...", Ethan replied.
So it was obvious that Ethan didn't know much about pianos either.
"Well a full size piano - a 'concert grand' - would probably not fit in any of the rooms here - and would be far too loud - but there is a concert grand at the 'Park Theater' that you could use when you wanted to test out pieces on the lowest registers.
It's the best make - and top of the range - a 'Steinway'.", Teddy said.
"I see...", Ethan replied, obviously not really understanding what Teddy had just said.
`Steinway' is a German-American piano company, founded in 1853 in Manhattan by German piano builder Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg. The company's growth led to a factory in New York City, USA, and a factory in Hamburg, Germany. The factory in the Queens borough of New York City supplies the Americas, and the factory in Hamburg supplies the rest of the world. The Steinway Concert Grand is 8' 11¾" in length, and this majestic musical instrument - the pinnacle of concert grands - is the overwhelming choice of the world's greatest pianists, and for anyone who demands the highest level of musical expression - like Ethan....
"But the best thing for what you want, here in the penthouse, is to get a really good digital piano.
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| 'Kawai' CA99 Hybrid Digital Piano |
"Found one !" Teddy exclaimed.
"It's a 'Kawai' CA99 Hybrid Digital Piano from the 'Kawai Concert Artist' Series - and you're a concert artist, Ethan - and it's small - 'will fit in here easily - and you can use headphones - so you won't have to annoy us with your composing !", Teddy declared.
"OK, and is it expensive ?", Jim asked.
"I don't know - I don't know much about this money business...", Teddy admitted.
"Let's put it this way - it's more expensive than a cheeseburger, and less expensive than a Cadillac."
"Just tell us.", Ethan implored.
"Eight Thousand Dollars", Teddy replied.
"No problemo !", Ethan said casually.
Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (Kabushiki-gaisha Kawai Gakki Seisakusho) is a musical instrument manufacturing company headquartered in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan. It is best known for its grand pianos, upright pianos, digital pianos, electronic keyboards and electronic synthesizers. The company was founded in August 1927.
"But two Cadillacs and a` digital piano are enough for the moment, Ethan, so no more 'toys' for a while...", Jim said.
"Okey dokey...", Ethan said, as the intercom to the Penthouse sounded.
And it was 'Sigi', arriving in order to give Ethan his first driving lesson...
"So - how's it going, uncle Jim ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"Well, what with the Cadillac, pianos, pipe organs, sheet music, Anabaptists and such like - it's been a difficult time recently.", Jim replied.
"Oh, sorry to hear that, uncle...
Now 'Sigi' isn't really Jim's nephew - and Jim is not very happy about being called 'Uncle Jim' - but it seems to a amuse 'Sigi'. The explanation of who 'Sigi' really is is complex, and even 'Sigi' himself is not really aware of who he actually is - or was - or how he came to be... Something of an explanation may be found in the chapter entitled 'Brandt - Maria & the Men in Black' - which involves Ethan, Teddy and Faunus - a psychiatrist, and his very attractive secretary, and is well worth reading.
So what are we doing now ?", 'Sigi' replied, apparently unfazed.
"Now, I want you to have a little drive round with Ethan and Teddy in the new Cadillac, but be sure that you drive the auto out of the garage before you let Ethan take the wheel." Jim explained.
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| Ethan's new Cadillac - Basement Garage - 'Penthouse Building' - Summerlin - Las Vegas |
So Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' made their way down to the garage in the basement of the 'Penthouse Building'.
Ethan took his Hasselblad with him, as he was so proud of his new Cadillac that he wanted to take some pictures.
"Big, isn't it ...", 'Sigi' commented, as Ethan made Teddy sit on the hood.
As many in the UK follow this story - in the UK the 'hood' is known as the 'bonnet', and the 'trunk' is known as the 'boot' - 'gas' is 'petrol'.
"Smile, Teddy...", Ethan said - but Teddy refused - and so Teddy went down in photographic history as a rather annoyed, fluffy 'hood ornament'.
So once Ethan had taken some photos of his new 'toy', Teddy was settled between 'Sigi', who was driving, and Ethan.
"Now Ethan - these Cadillacs are really very easy to drive... ", 'Sigi' began, as he slipped the Eldorado into gear, and carefully guided the large convertible out of the basement garage.
"I agree...", Teddy added.
"Please, Teddy - your fury feet can't even reach down to the pedals - so be so kind as not to interrupt.
It's 'Sigi' who's giving the lesson...", Ethan said.
"OK - but don't expect any help from me if anything goes wrong with this overpriced lump of chrome.", Teddy retorted - and promptly switched himself off.
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| for the technically minded - a GMC 'Turbo-Hydramatic' transmission |
"The Cadillac Eldorado is an automatic - and uses a transmission called 'Turbo-Hydramatic'...", 'Sigi' began.
'Turbo-Hydramatic' or 'Turbo Hydra-Matic' is the registered trade-name for a family of automatic transmissions developed and produced by 'General Motors'. These transmissions combine a three-element turbine torque converter to a 'Simpson Planetary gear-train', providing three forward speeds, plus reverse.
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| Cadillac controls |
"Now as I said before - Cadillacs are really very easy to drive. -
You have the steering wheel - the use of which is obvious.
There are two pedals on the floor.
The skinny one on the right controls your speed, and is called the 'accelerator'.
The big pedal, on the left, is the brake.
The big lever, on the right of the steering column, is the 'gear shift', and that tells what the engine should do.
The indicator on the steering column, marked P-N-R-D-1-2-3, tells you what gear you have selected.
When you park, always select P.
N is when you don't want the engine engaged - I'll explain that later.
R is when you want to go backwards.",
D is the main one, and simply means 'drive' - and is the setting you use most of the time - and selects the gear according the your use of the accelerator.`
1,2 and 3, you only use on certain occasions, which I'll explain later - and apart from 'cruise control', that's about it.", 'Sigi' explained.
"So what's the 'cruise-control-thingy' ?", Ethan asked.
That's for when you're driving long distances on the Interstate.
You simply switch on 'cruise control', press the accelerator until you reach the speed you want, and you don't need to do anything else.
When the 'cruise control' is engaged, the throttle can still be used to accelerate the car, but once the pedal is released the car will then slow down until it reaches the previously set speed.
Using 'cruise control' on long distances can increase fuel efficiency.
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| Summerlin - Las Vegas - Nevada - USA |
Now Teddy, realizing that 'Sigi' was instructing Teddy in a very professional manner, remained silent, and apparently 'switched off', as 'Sigi' drove to a quiet part of Summerlin, where Ethan finally took the driver's seat - and actually Ethan drove very well.
'Summerlin' is a community in the 'Las Vegas Valley' of Southern Nevada. It lies at the edge of the 'Spring Mountains' and 'Red Rock Canyon' to the west; it is partly within the official city limits of Las Vegas and partly within unincorporated Clark County. Summerlin was named after Jean Amelia Summerlin, the grandmother of land-developer Howard Hughes. The 'Athena Corporation HQ' is situated in 'Summerlin', along with the 'Athena Penthouse Building' (now owned by Ethan Duncan).
But the first lesson had to end, as Jim and Ethan needed to be at the 'Club Athena' for business meetings.
for more information about Cadillacs go to
"Well, that's an excellent start, Ethan - but we need to be getting back to the 'Penthouse Building' to pick up Jim for those meetings at the 'Club Athena'- so I think I should takeover as we shall be driving through some heavier traffic.", 'Sigi' said.
So they swapped places, with 'Sigi' then driving.
"Well I thought you drove very well - particularly as it was your first time...", Teddy said.
"Yes - and I thought you'd switched yourself off...", Ethan replied, tetchily.
"Yes - well I have a little sub-routine that undertakes 'background monitoring' - just in case of emergencies.", Teddy explained.
"So - you were spying again.", Ethan said.
"Ethan ! - Can't you see - Teddy's trying to 'make up'.
He's complimenting you - so just you two be friends, and stop squabbling.", 'Sigi' said.
"Sorry, 'Sigi'.", Teddy said.
Ethan then twiddled Teddys ear....
"Yes - sorry.
It's just become a habit now - sometimes I don't know why we do it.
But thanks, 'Sigi' - and thanks for the lesson.", Ethan said, sounding truly upset.
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| Reception at Club Athena |
And so they arrived at the 'Club Athena'.
The bellhops didn't recognize the big white Cadillac convertible, but were under orders to welcome any expensive looking limo that stopped at the main entrance at the Club - however, once they saw Teddy, the reception staff were informed straight away, and so Emma immediately came to the main entrance.
"I wonder if she comes with an 'owner's manual' ?", Ethan whispered to Teddy, as Emma gave them an effusive greeting.
In case you have not been following the story - Ethan has a theory - or more likely an obsession - that Emma is an 'android' - hence the remark regarding an 'owners manual' - which had only occurred to Ethan as he had received an owner's manual with his Cadillac.
Emma - Jim's Secretary
"Good morning, Emma.
I believe Mr Johnston is expecting us," , Ethan said very formally...
"Of course, Mr Duncan...
Come with me...", Emma replied equally formally.
And so it was up in the elevator, with Teddy exercising his right to manipulate the elevator buttons.
"I see Jim's got rid of that mirror, and put a picture in its place...", Ethan said, as they left the 'executive elevator'.
"Yes, it's a classical oil painting by Bouguereau - well just a 'sturdy' actually'....
Very expensive according to Franklin. ", Teddy explained.
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| Elevator Lobby - Club Athena |
William-Adolphe Bouguereau ( November 1825 – August 1905) was a French academic painter. In his art he used mythological themes. During his life, he enjoyed great popularity in France and the United States. The painting Jim bought for the elevator lobby is a study for 'Psyche et L'Amour' (1889) - and is very similar to images from mythology created during the Roman Empire.
As you should know by now, the 'senior executive offices' of the 'Athena Corporation' are situated on the very top floors of the 'Club Athena' - well away from the annoying guests - not that many 'guests' are permitted to use the 'Club Athena' as a hotel,
The infamous 'Room 33' is also situated on the top floor - along with Franklin's offices.
And so Emma knocked politely on the door leading to Jim's office suite in order to announce Jim's visitors.
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| Jim's Office - Club Athena - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Hi Jim - so what's this all about ?", Ethan asked casually, as he settled Teddy on a very comfy and rather opulent ebony and ormolu chair.
"Can I have a cushion ?", Teddy asked, before Jim could answer Ethan's question.
"It's about the 'AirWest' cabins.", Teddy began to say.
"Ah yes - I remember.
The 'designer-thingy-guys' were going to come and show us their drawings.", Ethan said, finishing the explanation for Teddy.
"Well it's all Max's fault because he started moaning about the decor and the seats on our flight back from Mexico.", 'Sigi' said.
And at that moment there was a soft knock on the doors to Jim's office.
It was Emma - introducing the gentlemen described by Ethan as the 'designer-thingy-guys' - complete with their bulky folders of drawings.
The senior designer politely greeted Jim, and then proceeded to explain that their studio had recently been working on designs for another well known airline, but the project had been cancelled.
As the actual aircraft had been the same as those employed by 'AirWest', they had brought those rejected design with them - as they understood that the requirement for designs was urgent.
Their previous project had been cancelled on the grounds of cost - it seemed the other airline could not afford such an expensive upgrade.
At that point Jim interrupted the senior designer who was giving the explanations.
"Cost is not necessarily an issue.
Our airline is not a simple transportation concern, but offers our clients an inclusive package of transportation, accommodation, resort facilities, entertainment etc. - and so something like the cost of seating in an already accounted for aircraft is a relatively minor factor.",Jim explained.
By that point Ethan was 'lost', but both Teddy and 'Sigi' thought they could see where he was going with this response.
Jim continued - "So show me the drawings you have so far, and your financial estimates, and then we might have something that we can use....", Jim concluded.
"Exactly, Sir...", the senior designer responded, smiling - and his assistants began arranging three of the initial drawings.
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| AirWest Cabin Seating Designs - (open in a new tab to view full size) |
'Sigi' very thoughtfully picked up the drawings - that were mounted on stiff card - and held the designs up for Jim to see, but also allowing Teddy to see them as well.
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| Computer Generated Image - Cabin Seating - AirWest |
"Now, gentlemen, if you could just withdraw for a moment, we would like to peruse the designs in private.", Jim requested.
And so, once the 'designer-thingy-guys' had left Jim's office, Jim, Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' gathered round to look at the drawings.
"It reminds me of the 'Greyhound Bus' - very blue...", Ethan commented.
"Yes - but it's 100% improvement on that old publicity photo from the time before you bought the airline, Jim...", 'Sigi' said thoughtfully.
"Well I think blue's OK - looks 'cool' and doesn't show the dirt...", Teddy said.
"Yes, and at least it looks like there's lots of leg room - unlike those 'Greyhound seats,
and according to these specifications each seat has a large 'fold-down' table, and a LCD screen, a headphone jack and a phone link - so it all looks pretty good for 'tourist class thingy'...", Ethan added.
"Now let's think about this carefully...
We know that one of our major competitors were unable to fund this level of comfort for their 'Tourist Class' flights - so - perhaps we could organize an advertising campaign, featuring our new cabin seating...", Teddy suggested.
"Yes - so, Jim - get your 'android' to make an appointment for our 'advertising-thingy-guys' to come and see us.", Ethan said.
 |
| Mr Franklin Black |
Jim then buzzed Emma, told her to pass on the cabin designers to Franklin, in order to organize the refurbishment of the 'AirWest' aircraft, and arrange payment for their services, and also told her to make an appointment for the 'Athena Corporation Advertising Design Group' to prepare specimen posters, based on the cabin CGI image, and present such designs as soon as possible.
Emma then returned to Jim's office in order to pick up the drawings, and deliver them to Franklin.
At the same time Emma stated that Mr Harley was waiting in reception to see Jim.
"So - Mr Harley has returned.", Ethan said cryptically.
Now rather than send Caleb back to his lodgings near the airport, Jim had arranged for Caleb to take his evening meal and use a guest room overnight in the 'Club Athena Hotel'.
"Yes, and I want you and 'Sigi' to look after him, as he needs some decent clothes, and some decent accommodation.
"Okey dokey..." Ethan said.
"So wait in the anti-room while I have a quick, private word with Caleb - and take Teddy with you.", Jim said.
"And where's the ante-room ?", Ethan asked.
"Just up those stairs.", Jim replied.
"Oh - I was wondering what was up there...", Ethan remarked, as he picked up Teddy, and together with 'Sigi' went up to the ante-room.
"And no eaves-dropping.", Jim added.
"I've never dropped an 'eave' in my life - whatever an 'eave' is...", Ethan replied as he disappeared up the stairs carrying Teddy.
Meanwhile, Caleb was ushered into Jim's office.
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| Caleb's Room - Club Athena |
"It's 'Sir', Caleb - after all, we've only just met.", Jim replied.
"Did you have a comfortable night ?", Jim then asked - making an effort to put Caleb at ease.
"Yes, it's a beautiful room.", Caleb observed.
"Yes - the rooms here at the 'Club Athena' are for special guests - staying here just for a night or so...", Jim explained - hoping that Caleb would understand that the room was not going to be his permanent accommodation.
"Well, to be truthful, Sir, I've only ever slept in my own bed - apart from the bed in the room I rent near the airport, now I'm at the 'Combat Club' - it's our way." Caleb admitted.
"So it's a new experience for you - and by 'our way' you mean the 'Amish way'.", Jim said.
"Yes Sir", Caleb replied.
"So Amish people don't stay in hotels ?
"Oh no - never...", Caleb replied.
"Anyway, if you want to keep working at the 'Combat Club', I will want you to have a decent apartment in a safe part of town.
It will be 'rent free' - all part of the job - and close to the 'Combat Club'...
How do you feel about that ?", Jim asked.
"It sounds very generous, Sir.", Caleb replied, sounding surprised.
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| Zac Taylor - Head of Security |
The apartment will be in a large apparent block known as the 'Penthouse Building'.
All the people living in the apartment block work for the 'Athena Corporation', including the head of 'Athena Security', Mr Taylor - who will obviously keep an eye on you - particularly early on.
Also, much of the time I will be there, and also Mr Duncan - so coming to the city may not be so 'free and easy' as you might have imagined when you left your home, and your community, in Cresco, in Iowa. - but you will be safe, and looked after, very and well rewarded for your work.
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| Chuck's Chevy |
And with that, Jim called Ethan and Teddy and 'Sigi' down from the upstairs ante-room.
"So what's going on ?", Ethan asked, mimicking Teddy.
"Well you guys are going to take Caleb shopping, and then meet at Caleb's place to pick up his gear, and take it to the 'Penthouse Building'.", Jim replied.
"Sounds good - and perhaps we can also do some shopping for ourselves...", Ethan said hopefully.
"Why not... but don't take all day...", Jim replied
Jim, not surprisingly, had work to deal with, but Ethan, although he really should have been making preparations for the upcoming concert, felt justified in taking time out to shop in 'Vegas with 'Sigi' and Caleb as he was 'under orders' from Jim.
And so they left the 'Club Athena', and with 'Sigi' driving Ethan's new Cadillac, made their way to the main shopping district of Las Vegas.
"So I know what Jim said, but I really don't have any money to buy any clothes - or other things, as Kurt only pays me the minimum.", Caleb said diffidently.
"Don't you worry, Caleb.
Now that Jim's taken you on, permanent like, you are part of the 'Entertainment Division' - so I'm personally responsible for you - so you won't have any worries about your income.", Ethan said reassuringly, as he waved one of his many credit cards in front of Caleb.
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| Louis Vuitton Men's Wear- Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Well I think I understand about this money business - so everything's OK...", Teddy added.
Their first stop was the newly opened Louis Vuitton Men's Store.
So 'Sigi' parked Ethan's Cadillac, and they walked to the first shop - Louis Vuitton.
'Louis Vuitton Malletier' is a French luxury fashion house and company founded in 1854 by Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton is one of the world's leading international fashion houses. It sells its products - bags and leather goods, ready-to-wear clothes, shoes, watches, jewellery, accessories and sunglasses - through standalone boutiques, lease departments in high-end departmental stores, and through the e-commerce section of its website.
"Not much in the window, is there...", Caleb observed.
"They don't need to...
You see, Caleb - there are two main ways to sell...
'Stack 'em high, and sell 'em cheap' - or this way, where you rely on the name and the reputation - and sell them 'high quality' and expensive.", 'Sigi' explained.
Caleb looked puzzled, but nodded his head in acceptance.
"OK, guys - but if you want me to have some new clothes - what should I buy ?", Caleb asked.
"Well you can't go around in the stuff you're wearing now.", Ethan said, perhaps a little thoughtlessly.
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| Louis Vuitton 'VIP' Room - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"So just let's go inside, and see what they've got.", 'Sigi' suggested.
Inside it was very quiet, with thick carpets.
An assistant greeted them, and Ethan instantly flashed card.
"What's that card ?", Caleb asked.
"Oh, he's just showing off...
He's got an account here - so he, and in this case, we get special treatment.", 'Sigi' explained.
That meant very little to Caleb, so he just started looking round - until the assistant guided them into the 'VIP' Room.
"And what should we buy ?", Caleb asked, having never been in a shop like it ever before.
"Well, an evening suite - a bow-tie, black dress-shoes and white evening shirt for our Concert - to begin with.", Ethan began, while Teddy checked out the cushions.
"Yes, and what about something a bit more casual - like jeans or chinos, and some trainers.", 'Sigi' added more practically.
And so Caleb was measured-up, and various items were brought out for him to inspect, and subsequently 'try on'.
"Now this is better than shopping at the Walmart Store in Cresco...', Caleb commented, at he tried on a rather fetching pair of gleaming white trainers.`
"I don't see what's wrong with Walmart...", Teddy whispered to Ethan.
Eventually Ethan was satisfied with the selected items, and handed one of his many cards for payment.
"Is that all you do, Ethan ?...", Caleb asked, incredulous. "just hand them a plastic card..."
"Yes - that's how it's done in the 'real' world, Caleb.", Ethan casually replied.
"So from what your saying, I presume that you've never used a payment card ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"No - we Amish don't believe in them...", Caleb admitted.
"Well, they come in very handy - but as Franklin will be having a bank account opened for you, as your'e now on the payroll - then you will get a card for yourself. 'Sigi' explained.
"But enough of this money talk - let's go to another shop.", Ethan said.
"Another ?..." Caleb.
"Yes - not far from here but we need to take the 'Caddy' as we might have a lot of bags" Ethan said.
"So where are we going now ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"Givenchy...", Ethan replied.
'Givenchy' is a French luxury fashion and perfume house. It hosts the brand of 'haute couture' clothing, accessories and 'Parfums Givenchy' perfumes and cosmetics. The house of Givenchy was founded in 1952 by designer Hubert de Givenchy.
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| Givenchy - Las Vegas - Nevada - USA |
"So why do these sort of shops have foreign sounding names, and not English ?" , Caleb asked.
"It's because the French have led the world in fashion design for a very long time.", came the muffled response from Teddy's white plastic Walmart bag.
"So, before we go in, let's think about what we need.", 'Sigi' sensibly suggested.
"Well it's another of those shops with nothing in the window, so I suppose it will be very expensive.", Caleb commented.
"Let me change that slightly - not really expensive, if you've got the money, but rather excellent quality and style.", Ethan said, correcting Caleb.
"Alright - but what does Caleb need ?", 'Sigi' insisted.
So they stood on the sidewalk and considered what they had already bought, and what Caleb didn't have.
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| Givenchy - Store Interior - Las Vegas - Nevada - USA |
"Well let's go in, because we haven't had our lunch yet, and I'm hungry.", 'Sigi' added.
"OK - then let's go in.", Ethan said decisively.
And so they went through the same routine as they did at Louis Vuitton, and came out loaded with carrier bags.
'So now let's eat !", Ethan said.
"And where shall we eat ?", 'Sigi asked.
"Now I'm under orders from Jim to check out all the new acquisitions in Vegas - so far.
"So - there's a place called the 'Flamingo' - and I haven't been there...
It's a hotel and casino that was owned by the same people that owned the old 'Caesars Palace' - you know, where we took you, Caleb, yesterday.
Well, this 'Flamingo' place was part of the deal to buy 'Caesars Palace', although Jim didn't really want the Flamingo' - but he badly wanted 'Caesars Palace' - but anyway, Franklin got it 'bundled in' with the 'Caesars Palace' deal - so now we own it.
But I'm told they do really good cheeseburgers there - well actually steaks with lots of cheese with all the trimmings - so I thought we should 'inspect' it." Ethan explained.
The original 'Flamingo' - Las Vegas - Nevada - 1947 The 'Las Vegas 'Flamingo - is a casino hotel on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. The property includes a 72,299-square-foot casino along with 3,460 hotel rooms. The architectural theme is reminiscent of the Art Deco and Streamline Moderne style. Also, staying true to its theme and name, the hotel includes a garden which serves as a wildlife habitat for real 'pink flamingos'. The hotel was the third resort to open on the 'Vegas Strip', and remains the oldest resort on the 'Strip' in operation today. It is also the last remaining casino on the strip that opened before 1950 that is still in operation. After opening in 1946, it has undergone a number of ownership changes, eventually being taken over by the 'Athena Corporation' in a combined deal that included 'Caesars Palace'.
"And it's near here ?", 'Sigi' asked.
"Yes - a couple of minutes drive...", Ethan replied.
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| 'Athena Flamingo' - Las Vegas - Nevada |
They soon arrived at the renowned 'Las Vegas Flamingo'.
No one, other than lawyers, and Mr Franklin Black, had visited the 'Flamingo' from the 'Athena Corporation' since the famous casino and hotel had been absorbed into the 'Corporation', and so far Jim had made no decisions or alterations regarding the property.
So, when Ethan - who was 'Director of Entertainments of the Athena Corporation' - arrived - no one had any idea of who he was and, as he was carrying Teddy - that would probably mean that the management and staff were undoubtedly in for a very interesting lunch-time.
Before they left the convertible, Ethan gently helped Teddy out of his white plastic Walmart bag, and settled him on his lap.
"Now - if you switch on your 'SEBF', will it be effective enough to prevent any embarrassing incidents in this place - because I want to give a 'good impression'....", Ethan said very seriously.
Teddy nodded - and as his 'SEBF' was already switched on, Caleb didn't seem to notice, or be concerned.
"Where are we eating in this rather cheap looking hotel ?", Ethan asked.
"The 'Bugsy & Meyer's Restaurant'...", Teddy replied.
"And I have some information about Bugsy...", Teddy intimated.
"Oh yes ?... so tell us ...", 'Sigi' said.
"Well - and this is all correct - because it comes from my 'data-base' -
And the hotel has a memorial to Mr Siegel, and still has real, live pink flamingos in the gardens.Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel was of Ashkenazi Jewish extraction - originally acting as 'muscle' for gangsters, and when young he ran protection rackets. and was wanted by the police for armed robbery, rape and murder.
Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel 'Bugsy' was a driving force behind the development of the Las Vegas Strip.Also Siegel, along with his boyhood friend and fellow gangster Meyer Lansky, held significant influence within the Italian-American Mafia, and the largely Italian-Jewish National Crime Syndicate, although neither were Italian.Described as handsome and charismatic, he became one of the first front-page 'celebrity gangsters'.In 1946, Siegel diversified into legitimate business with William R. Wilkerson's 'Flamingo Hotel'.
Memorial to 'Bugsy Siegel' - Flamingo Hotel - Las Vegas With the 'Flamingo', Siegel would supply the gambling, the best liquor and food, and the biggest entertainers at reasonable prices.He believed that these attractions would lure not only the high rollers but thousands of vacationers willing to gamble $50 or $100.Wilkerson was eventually coerced into selling all stakes in the Flamingo under the threat of death and from this point the Flamingo became syndicate-run.In 1947, Siegel was murdered by person or persons unknown.
So now you know...", Teddy concluded.
"Right ! - Well let's go in and see if we can spot any gangsters !", Ethan said.
Now as they were unknown at the hotel, Ethan had to ask the way to the place where they served steak with all the trimmings.
As it happens, it was known as 'Bugsy's Steakhouse'.
Surprisingly enough, the parts of the hotel that they saw on their way to the 'Steakhouse' all looked as if they had been recently renovated - so it seemed that Franklin had been well advised to go ahead with the deal.
Finally they found themselves in the restaurant.
"So - it's better than I expected...", Ethan said, as he plonked Teddy down on a table that was situated close to some very attractive plants and greenery.
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| 'Bugsy's Steakhouse' - Main Dining Area - Flamingo Hotel - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Ethan - put me down gently...", Teddy pleaded.
"Don't worry, Teddy, Ethan's just trying to look the confident executive.", 'Sigi' explained, as he patted Teddy's fluffy head.
But it seemed that no one was taking Ethan for an executive, especially as he didn't have a briefcase, and he was talking to a teddy-bear - and that was because SEBF was, for some unknown reason, not been operating
Then a very managerial gentleman approached.
"Excuse me, Sir, but diners are not permitted to place stuffed toys on the tables where food is consumed...", the ostensible manager said haughtily, with a slight Italian accent..
"He's not a 'stuffed toy', as you so crudely put it.
He's an animated computerized assistant, with an IQ that's about 100 times higher than yours, and he's recording you in video and audio, and he's matched you up to the 'Athena Corporation Database' - so we know that you are - let me see - Giovanni Ferraro - under manager of 'Bugsy's Steakhouse', at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino.", Ethan said calmly.
Giovanni looked flabbergasted.
"And I am Ethan Duncan - an Assistant Director of the 'Athena Corporation', and technically your boss.", Ethan concluded
"And this - is Teddy, and after we've had lunch he'd like to see the pink flamingos.", Ethan hurriedly added - realizing that the 'managerial gentleman' - who was in fact the maître d' - was, noticing Teddy.
"I see Sir, I'll get you a waiter - right away...", and Giovanni went off for a quiet sit down, and a glass of water.
A few moments later four waiters arrived - presumably one for Ethan, one for 'Sigi, one for Caleb, and even one for Teddy - although Teddy didn't need a waiter.
After ordering, Caleb had some questions.
"So can Teddy tell me what this 'Mafia' thing is.... I mean I have heard of the 'Mafia', but as we have no television at home, and we're not supposed to go the the cinema, I don't really understand what all this is about.", Caleb asked.
(remember - until very recently, Caleb had lived in an isolated Amish community in Iowa)
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| Small Arms of the Kingdom of Italy |
And so Teddy launched into one of his little talks:
"Mafia is a word used to describe criminal organizations that bear a strong similarity to the 'Sicilian (Italian) Mafia'.
The central activity of such a group would be the organization and enforcement of agreements between criminals through the use of, or threat, of violence.
Mafias also often engage in secondary activities such as gambling, loan sharking, drug-trafficking, prostitution, and fraud.
The 'Italian-American Mafia', was formed originally by some of the Italian immigrants who settled in the United States.
They refer to their organizations, in Italian, as 'Cosa Nostra' - translated to English, it means 'this thing of ours'.
The 'Italian-American Mafia' has long dominated organized crime in the United States, and each crime 'family' has its own territory, and operates independently, while nationwide coordination is overseen by the 'Commission', which consists of the bosses of each of the strongest families.
The development of Las Vegas, in Nevada, into a center for gambling and other illicit activities was largely organized by the Italian-American 'Cosa Nostra'....", Teddy explained.
Caleb nodded appreciatively...
"And what about you guys ?", he asked.
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| Ethan's Gold-Plated 'Colt Defender' |
"What do you mean, Caleb ?", 'Sigi asked.
"Well, I saw the guns, when you and Ethan were trying on some of those clothes earlier - also, you've got 'funny' accents, and you seem to control all these 'fancy' places and run gambling - ride around in really big cars, and have all this money...
So what am I supposed to think ?", Caleb said anxiously.
"Well, that's the question - isn't it.", Ethan answered, playing a little on Caleb's naiveté.
"Now if we were mafiosi - well, would we tell you ?....
But no - you're not working for 'Don Iago' - it's just 'Jim', although that's not his real name.
But because some people want badly what we have, we need to protect ourselves - so we're not always 'nice guys' - even Teddy.", Ethan tried to carefully explain.
"But if you have doubts - well, you can go back to 'Cresco', or wherever, and there will be no hard feelings."
The Colt Defender 9 mm Pistol is an everyday carry, single action pistol with an 8+1 capacity. Complete with Genuine Novak sights, a G10 grip, and a 3-holed trigger, this firearm stands apart from others in its class. It also features a 3-tiered safety system for comfortable handling and a locked breech operating system, and has a steel and alloy construction, and is made in the USA.Ethan only ever used his Colt defender aggressively on one occasion - and that was to hit Siegfried Brandt in order to give him a bruise - why ? follow the LINK to find out
Then 'Sigi' intervened...
"But give it a try, Caleb,
It's your big, 'once in a lifetime' chance.."
Ethan patted Caleb's shoulder...
"Just be patient - and Jim will explain things to you, when the time is right."
"So you're not going to ask me to kill anyone, or do anything illegal...", Caleb asked.
"Now why would we do that ?
Your job is to get fit - and then to take part in some faked wrestling shows - that's all.", Ethan replied.
"But now I want to see the flamingos.", Teddy insisted - wanting to change the subject - before Ethan said anything he might regret.
So as they had finished their meal, Ethan called over the very confused restaurant manager, and asked if someone would show them the flamingos.
"Of course, Sir, and being 'senior management', we don't expect any payment for the meal", Giovanni said obsequiously.
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| Pink Las Vegas Flamingos |
"I should hope not - and you need to understand that in addition to being 'senior management', I am also part owner of this hotel, and a number of other hotels here in 'Vegas.
And now - what about the flamingos ?", Ethan added.
And so a bellhop was called, who guided them to the garden area where the famous flamingos were kept.
"So there they are, Teddy ...
Real pink flamingos !", 'Sigi' announced.
"Well - they're very, very pink, and cute, in a grumpy sort of way.
But then I would be grumpy if I was standing on very thin leg-thingys, in a pool of water, with people staring at me...", Ethan declared perceptively.
"But just how do they get so very pink ?", Ethan asked.
A foolish question to ask, perhaps, as Teddy would obviously have a very complicated explanation...
"Flamingos really are what they eat.
Many plants produce natural red, yellow or orange pigments, called carotids.
Carotenoids give carrots their orange color, or turn ripe tomatoes red, however, they are also found in the microscopic algae that brine shrimp eat.
As a flamingo dines on algae and brine shrimp, its body digests the pigments - turning its feathers bright pink.
And when it's hot, like today, flamingos keep cool by standing in water.
And here's a piece of useless information.... a group of flamingos is called a 'flamboyance' !", Teddy concluded.
"Well that's a really, really fascinating, conversation-stopping piece of information..." - Ethan said - but just before Teddy and Ethan could start a good argument, Ethan's 'phone sprang into life.
"It's Chuck....
He says he's parked outside Caleb's place, and there's no one there, and he want's to know where we are." , Ethan explained.
"Well jut tell him we've got the new convertible, and we're on our way.", 'Sigi' said.
NEWS FLASH - According to a recent study released by the 'National Low Income Housing Coalition', Las Vegas has the biggest shortage of affordable and available rental homes. Only 12 affordable rental units are available for every 100 households classified as 'extremely low income'.
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| Trailer Home - Clark County - Las Vegas - Nevada |
So, when Caleb moved to 'Vegas, the best that he could find and afford was a single room in a 'trailer home', close to the airport, sharing a bathroom and kitchen with one other person.
A 'trailer home' is a prefabricated structure, built in a factory on a permanently attached chassis before being transported to site (either by being towed, or on a trailer). Used as permanent homes, or for temporary accommodation, they are often left permanently or semi-permanently in one place, but can be moved, and may be required to move from time to time for legal reasons.
It didn't take long for 'Sigi' to drive to Caleb's old accommodation, where Chuck was waiting with the Chevy, as the rundown trailer park was quite close to the 'Flamingo Hotel' - both being near to the airport.
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| Las Vegas Strip - Nevada - Side-walk |
"So how long have you been living here ?", 'Sigi' asked Caleb.
"About a year.
Me and this young guy I met when I first came to 'Vegas - and we rented it.
He hustled on the streets with tourists, and I accidentally met up with Kurt, and he offered me this job at the 'Combat Club'.
It's not much of a place, the 'trailer', but it's better than living on the street, and at least I've got my own room.
"So, have you got much to take to the new place - like furniture and things ?", Ethan asked.
"No - just a couple of cases.", Caleb replied.
"So we don't really need Chuck...", 'Sigi' said.
"OK - 'I'll go over and tell Chuck he can go.", Ethan offered.
On the way back, Ethan knocked on the door of the trailer in order to contact Caleb's 'friend'- but there seemed to be no one at home.
"Have you got a key - your 'friend' doesn't seem to be there.", Ethan told Caleb.
"Yes - I got a key - and he's probably 'working' the 'Strip' - at least that what he tells me he does." , Caleb replied.
"Well, I don't want us waiting around here...", Ethan said, as he opened his wallet.
"Here's five hundred dollars - leave it, and your key, for your 'friend', and write a note telling him you've got to move out, and the money will help him with the rent until he gets someone else for the empty room.
Then pick up your things, and let's get out of here.", Ethan briefly concluded.
'Sigi' stowed Caleb's two battered suitcases in the trunk of the Cadillac convertible, and then 'Sigi' drove them back to the 'Penthouse Building' in Summerlin.
"Now this apartment that we've got for you is rent free - and that includes all services - but Franklin will require you to sign a Lease, and also sign for the keys, and the furnishings and fixtures.
It's not that he, or we distrusts you - it's just his 'way'.
You'll probably understand better when you meet Franklin - maybe tomorrow.", Ethan said with a cryptic smile.
A little later they arrived at the 'Penthouse Building', and 'Sigi' had parked outside the main entrance.
"Well, it's quite a building -
And not a hotel ? - It's just where you live ?", Caleb asked.
"Yes - it's where some of us live, and all being well, it's where you will be living - but come with me while 'Sigi' parks the convertible in the basement garage, and I'll show you the apartment, which I think you will like...
Actually all the apartments are very similar - just decorated and furnished a little differently.", Ethan said.
In the marble clad entrance lobby they met the concierge, who provided a temporary key for Caleb's apartment.
"Tomorrow, after you sign the leas, one of Franklin's minions will arrange to have the lock changed, and you will have your own permanent key.
I should also point out that both myself, as owner, and Mr Taylor - the head of security have master keys to all the apartments.
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| 'Sigi's House - Spring Palms - Henderson |
"So where's 'Sigi' going ?", Caleb asked.
"Oh, he's got his own place in 'Spring Palms' in Henderson - and occasionally he spends time there with a couple of friends from his time in High School'
He sometimes likes a a few hours away from the rest of us...", Ethan explained.
'Sigi's' house was bought and furnished by Jim for 'Sigi' when 'Sigi' graduated from Green Valley High School, Henderson.
"Anyway - let's take the elevator, and have a look round your new apartment.
And this, of course, was yet another opportunity for Teddy to play around with elevator buttons.
"It's down here - very private.", Ethan almost whispered - and the apartment was situated at the end of a thickly carpeted hallway.
Ethan opened the door and ushered Caleb into a white, stuccoed hallway which featured a number of other doors.
The first door opened into a what appeared to be a relatively small ante-room.
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| TV Ante-Room - Caleb's Apartment - 'Penthouse Building' - Las Vegas |
Decorated with cream and black marble, and with a pale marble floor and concealed lighting - the room was dominated by an L shaped sofa, a flat screen TV, and an elaborate audio-system, recessed into the black wall.
On the far wall was a painting.
"So what's with the picture ?", Caleb asked.
"Oh, Jim told me to put it there...
Its a copy of a painting that Jim owns...
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| 'Der Geist des Sieges' - 'The Spirit of Victory' - Franz von Stuck |
Teddy tells me it's by a famous German artist called Franz Stuck.", Ethan explained.
"Yes, well - a strange picture, but a very nice room...", Caleb said.
Franz von Stuck (February 23, 1863 – August 30, 1928) was a German painter, sculptor, print-maker, and architect. Stuck was best known for his paintings of ancient mythology. In 1906, Stuck was awarded the 'Order of Merit of the Bavarian Crown', and was henceforth known as Franz Ritter von Stuck. In 1892 Stuck co-founded the Munich Secession. Stuck's subject matter was primarily from mythology, inspired by the work of Arnold Böcklin. Large forms dominate most of his paintings and indicate his proclivities for sculpture. it is noted that Franz Stuck was Hitler's favourite painter from childhood on.
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| Caleb's Apartment - Living Room |
Running along one side of the room were ceiling high windows, leading out onto a wide balcony.
"So what do you think ?", than asked.
Caleb looked round the spacious living room.
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| 'Classical Landscape' - Ferdinand Keller |
"Yes - and you're not allowed to sub-let.", Ethan said, only half joking.
"Can I look out on the balcony ?", Caleb asked.
Without answering, Ethan slid open one of the large glass doors.
Caleb stepped out onto the balcony and took in the view.
He then returned to the room ...
"I see this room's got another of those 'fancy paintings'...", Caleb commented, as he took a closer look at the painting.
"You know I don't remember seeing any paintings in any of our friends' or neighbours' houses in Cresco.
We just didn't hold with wasting money on things like that.", Caleb then explained.
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| Caleb's Apartment - Bedroom |
They then went along another carpeted hallway.
"Now for the bedroom.", Ethan said, trying to be more business as time was pressing.
The large bedroom contained a double-bed, chests of drawers, and walk-in wardrobes.
One again Caleb instantly noticed the painting set over the bed-head.
"Well at least I won't have to look at the painting when I'm in bed." Caleb said.
Ethan ignored Caleb's comment.
Ethan then continued...
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| Caleb's Apartment - Bathroom |
'Oh - and one extra thingy...
You are not allowed to bring anyone here who is not an employee of the 'Athena Corporation' - and no smoking, no 'drugs', no alcohol, and no girl-friends or boy-friends - OK ?", Ethan said. as he took Caleb through a connecting door and into the bathroom.
"As I said before, the apartment is rent free, along with all services and charges, including maid service, laundry, under-floor heating, electricity, air-conditioning and garaging - although you haven't got a car - yet..."
And at that point - rather conveniently - Ethan's 'phone rang..
"Well, I'm needed at the airport - so you'd better unpack, and watch some TV.
I should be back soon, and then Jim will want to speak to you in the Penthouse.", Ethan explained.
And where's the Penthouse ?", Caleb asked.
"On the top floor if this building...", Ethan replied with a sigh.
And so Caleb was left on his own - in his beautiful, new luxury apartment - with nothing to do, as he didn't know how to operate the TV, radio or music system (having been brought up in an Amish community).
Meanwhile Chuck was taking Ethan to McCarran International Airport, in order to meet Brody and Clare - and then pick up Jim from the 'Club Athena' - and take them all back to the 'Penthouse Building' in Summerlin.
there is a reunion for Clare and Ethan and Teddy, and Brody - who then join Jim at the 'Penthouse'. Later Caleb spends some of the evening talking to Jim. The following day, meanwhile other developments take place in Washington. The following day Jim takes Ethan, Teddy and Caleb to meet Novius and Tony Stark at the 'Villa Athena'.
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with brief résumés
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All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2022
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2022
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 2022