The 'boys' & Teddy & Novius fly back to Luxor, and the return to Las Vegas by the 'dimensional portal. They then take the 'Dreamliner' to Rome to continue Novius' search for documents - and take in the ruins of the places that some of the knew so well, while Tony supervises the construction of the depot at 'Habu.
Meanwhile Ethan and Max get on with some music and organizing the 'Combat Club.
"So - our last morning in this nice, sunny breakfast room...", Ethan commented.
"And what shall we be doing in Luxor ?", Teddy asked.
"Relaxing - I hope....
 |
| Breakfast Room - Cecil Hotel - Alexandria - Egypt |
"Yes, but remember, they get all their orders from Jim.", Teddy said...
"..'suppose so...", Ethan was forced to admit.
"Hi guys....
How's it going ?", Jim said, as he breezily entered to breakfast room.
"Well speak of the devil...", Teddy said.
"So Jim - how long will we be staying in Luxor ?", Ethan asked.
"Oh, a few days, while we get things sorted out with Tony in Habu- but then we must get back to 'Vegas.", Jim replied.
"So what about this thing about going to Europe - maybe Rome ?", Ethan asked.
"You really do want to go to Rome...", Jim remarked.
"Yes - and Athens, if possible...", Ethan added.
"But you do realize that what you remember of them will all be in ruins now...", Jim said.
"Yes, it will be by now.", Ethan admitted.
"So - I suppose it's back to a nasty, cramped aeroplane now.", Teddy muttered, ignoring the conversation Jim and Etan were having.
"Yes - so let's get packing.", Jim then said, changing the subject, as he prepared to leave the breakfast room.
 |
| 'Sterling Pacific' Suitcase |
"You see this is where I need a nice 'Bot' - to do all the packing.", Ethan said, as he tossed his clothes into his gleaming, aluminum 'Sterling Pacific' suitcase.
"Yes, but I always help you...", Teddy said.
"True, but you're nearly a bad at packing as I am...
What I need is 'scientific packing' for my 'technological' suitcase.", Ethan insisted.
"Well if you ask me, it looks like a radiator, and a very expensive radiator at that.
"OK - but you're only saying that because you don't have any clothes to pack anyway...", Ethan retorted.
"Of course -
Real teddy-bears don't wear clothes.", Teddy insisted.
Sterling Pacific manufactures full aluminum travel cases from 5052 and A380 aluminum, two alloys used in the construction of aircraft, and in aerospace engineering. It was previously known as R. Herz & Bro Inc., which was incorporated in 1907, and was well-known for its jewellery and watches. The company is headquartered in Reno, Nevada. 'Sterling Pacific' offers aluminum suitcases in two sizes, with a capacity of 35L and 80L. The two-wheel full aluminum design of the suitcases features handles made from Italian leather
 |
| 'Borg El Arab' Airport - Tarmac - Alexandria - Egypt |
"...'see it's nice and busy again.", Ethan commented sarcastically, as he gazed out from the sleek, modern terminal building to the empty tarmac
"Yes, well I'm just wondering where our two Cessnas are.", Zac said, as they passed through check-out.
But Zac need not have worried, as the two jets were quickly towed into place.
And soon they were all onboard, and Jim was just waiting for Teddy to start complaining about flying, and Ethan to start moaning about the small size of the cabin - but for a change there were actually no complaints.
And then it was 'up, up and away', for their brief flight back to Luxor.
"So Ethan, how did you like your trip to Alexandria ?", Jim aske, hoping that by starting a fairly innocuous conversation it would prevent any complaints about the cramped conditions in the 'Cessna'.
 |
| 'Cessna Citation' - Alexandria to Luxor - 'Icarus Airline' |
But Alexandria itself seemed like a small version of Cairo, but with less attractions, and not many good shops - not that we had much time for shopping.
"But at least you can say that you have visited Alexandria - once the second city of the Roman Empire - not that there was anything much left from Greek and Roman times.", Novius remarked.
"So what did you think Teddy ?", Jim asked.
 |
| Main Runway - Luxor International Airport - Egypt |
Jim was not entirely sure if Teddy was being serious - but, as Teddy had recently started taking an inordinate interest in cloud formations, Jim decided to make no comment.
"Well, we'll soon be back in Luxor .", Zac stated rather obviously.
And so they were...
"Oh dear.
This is the bit I really don't like.", Teddy muttered, as the 'Cessna' seemingly dived down onto an apparently far too short runway.
But as usual, the landing was smooth and uneventful.
"You know one day you will get used to this flying business...", Jim said, wondering just why the little bear didn't simply switch himself off for the duration of the landing - or maybe even the duration of the flight..
As theirs had been an 'internal flight' there were no problems with passports or customs, and so they were soon leaving the terminal building.
Hassan, of course, was waiting for them, with two 'Mercedes-Maybach S-Class' limos which would speedily take them to the 'Winter Palace'.
"Oh it's good to be back...", Ethan said, as they sped past the Karnak temples, and made their way into the centre of Luxor.
 |
| Winter Palace - Main Entrance - Luxor - Egypt |
"Very quiet - but we miss you, pasha.", Hassan replied, ever polite and respectful.
And soon they were making their way along the 'Corniche' to where the 'Winter Palace' was situated, looking across the Nile to the 'Theban Hills'.
"Ah, I see you have the red carpet out.", Ethan said.
"Yes, Ethan effendi.
Ismail insisted - for your return...", Hassan explained.
"Very thoughtful", Jim commented.
"So tomorrow we would like you to take us to 'Medinet Habu' - to look at the land that we have bought there.", Zac said.
"Of course - no problem.
Habu is good land - and a good place for tourists, as it is said that you will build a hotel and restaurant there.", Hassan said, obviously looking for confirmation of the rumours presumably circulating on the 'West Bank'.
In fact Zac was simply obtaining information regarding the situation in 'Al Birat'.
So Jim, accompanied by Ethan, Teddy and Zac, followed by the others, mounted the red carpeted staircase and entered the 'Winter Palace.
As they made their way up the stairs, Ismail came out to greet them.
"مرحبًا بك في منزلك يا باشا", Ismail said, as he stepped forward to shake Jim's hand.
"Thank you..", Jim replied, guessing what Ismail had said.
Later - in the afternoon - Jim approached Tony about the question of Ethan's 'droid'.
"It seems that when Ethan heard about the 'search bots' that Faunus and Teddy used at the 'Bibliotheca Alexandrina', he looked up 'search-bots' on the internet, and came across images of cute 'little robots', and decided that he and Teddy needed one - so he asked me to ask you if you could make one for him.
Tony looked puzzled.
"OK - but what sort of android does he want ?", Tony asked.
 |
| Proposed Design for Ethan's Droid |
"Well I would suggest something fairly simple - and not liable to go off on its own way, as it were...
'Cute' but 'dumb', if you get my meaning.", Tony suggested.
"Well here's an image that Ethan downloaded from the internet - so this probably indicates what he considers to be 'cute'.
"Mm.. technically feasible - but it's really a question of the software...
As I said, relatively 'dumb'.
It's bad enough with Ethan and Teddy having arguments, but we don't want Teddy and this 'bot' arguing.", Tony warned.
"Well Ethan's excuse is that he needs someone to help him pack his suitcases - as Teddy has problems with packing as well as Ethan.", Jim explained.
It actually all sounds like a good idea to me ", Tony said.
"And this 'Bot' could have a 'SEBF', like Teddy ?, Jim queried.
"Oh yes- when required nobody would even notice him.", Tony assured Jim.
A 'SEBF' is an advanced form of psychological 'stealth technology', invented and patented by 'Stark Industries', which generates a 'field' that simply make targeted 'entities', objects and/or events unnoticeable. It's a form of 'invisibility' based on the way in which humans mentally perceive their 'external world' - rather than the more cumbersome form of induced 'invisibility', relying on optical and physical devices.
"Well - sounds good.
So when can you show us a prototype ?", Jim asked.
"As soon as you like -
All the software already exists, as it was previously designed for Teddy, and all we need to do is reduce the capabilities of the 'data base' - the 'dumbing down' process' - and design and manufacture the external bullet-proof carbon fibre shell, to conform to the image that Ethan has given us, and after that we can boot up' the 'Bot'.", Tony replied.
"You make it sound so simple.", Jim said.
"Well actually it is.
It's just a sophisticated 'kiddie's toy' really.", Tony explained.
"Yes - well just don't tell Ethan that.", Jim warned.
"I should point out that the 'android' will be capable of being taught certain skills - and the choice and nature of those skills shall be decided by the android's 'keeper' - in this case Ethan - and so Ethan should be advised as to what skills would be appropriate to teach the android as we don't want any mistakes to be made.
Teddy, of course, is a self regulating animatronic, but this proposed android will be much more simple, and will simply follow 'instructions.", Tony advised.
Meanwhile, Ethan and Teddy were happily playing with the kittens, in the 'Winter Palace' gardens, while Glaux, the owl, looked on approvingly from his favourite palm tree.
In reality, of course, Teddy was too serious a bear to actually play with kittens, and was just there to supervise things.
As it got dark Jim sent Ismael to advise Ethan to take the kittens up to 'Jim's suite for the night, and it was there that Jim spoke to Ethan about the proposals regarding the creation of an android for Ethan.
"Tony has agreed to have a prototype made of an 'android', based on the image that you printed off from the internet.
He has sent instructions back to the US for work to be undertaken, and the prototype should be delivered to the 'Penthouse Building' shortly after you arrive back at the 'Penthouse'...", Jim explained.
Medinet Habu - مدينة هابو - often referred to simply as 'Habu', is a locality situated near the foot of the 'Theban Hills' on the 'West Bank' of the River Nile, opposite the modern city of Luxor, Egypt.
 |
| 'Medinet Habu - West Bank - Luxor - Egypt |
Associated villages are situated in the area known as - بيرات - al Birat.
The area has been chosen by Jim to be the sight for a repository and distribution centre for mined Armantium - although the building itself is to be a small hotel and restaurant, with the repository being located in a flood-proof underground facility.
As was usual by then, they took two Mercedes-Maybachs to the bridge, where they crossed to the 'West Bank', and then drove on to 'Habu'.
Habu was where Mahmoud, the other driver, that Jim regularly employed, lived.
Mahmoud lived with his parents and younger brother and sisters in a small house which looked out directly on the huge 'Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III'.
So it was a good opportunity to drop in for a glass of shay, and a few words with the family.
It was also a good opportunity to let Mahmoud family meet Tony - who would obviously be visiting the site on occasions once the building was underway, and also Zac, who would regularly be keeping an eye on things.
This, however, was the problem....
 |
| Mahmoud's House - Medinet Habu - West Bank - Luxor |
Fortunately they had Ashraf as well as Mahmoud with then, so it could be explained that it would be some time before construction was completer, and also that Jim needed to leave in order to walk around the site and check it out.
It was a short walk to the fields where the hotel and restaurant were to be built.
Purposefully, however, Jim left Mahmoud in the Mercedes, as the fewer people who knew the real purpose of the 'repository' masquerading as a hotel the better.
 | |
| Architectural Drawing of the proposed hotel. |
"Veri-whaty ?', Ethan asked.
"Truthfulness - or more precisely - believability.", Teddy explained, as Ethan showed Jim the drawings.
"Oh - you mean it makes it easier for others to go with the lie.", Ethan said.
 |
| Thumper |
Nobody watching or listening in ?", Jim asked.
"Yes - everything's secure.
"Well I think it looks very 'dinky'....", Ethan said as he caught sight of the drawings.
"It's a good rendering Tony remarked.
"Just one floor, and in a simple style like the 'mud-brick' houses round here.
And no hint of the floor below.", Teddy added.
"So what ya gonna call it ?", Ethan asked - doing his imitation of Thumper.
"You mean the hotel ?", Jim asked.
"Yep...", Ethan replied.
"Perhaps we could call it the 'Ramesses III Hotel'...", Jim proposed.
"Yes - I guess that'll do alright...", Ethan replied.
 |
| Ramesses III - 'Warrior Pharaoh' |
Ramesses III successfully deafened Egypt from its many enemies and so has also been described as a 'Warrior Pharaoh' due to his strong military strategies. He led the way by defeating the invaders known as the 'Sea Peoples', who had caused destruction in other civilizations and empires. He was able to save Egypt from collapsing at the time when many other empires fell during the 'Late Bronze Age'. Rameses III constructed one of the largest mortuary temples of western Thebes - now-called 'Medinet Habu'.
"So what happens now ?", Tony asked.
"Well Zac and I had better fly back to 'Vegas - as that's the way we arrived here - it's all a question of passports and visas.
The rest of you can stay for a day or so while we make arrangements for work to start here in Habu - and then you can all return to the US using the 'portal'.", Jim confirmed.
 |
| Emirates Airliner |
"Yes, but at leas you'll have a 'bot' to look forward to in 'Vegas - and there's also another concert due.
"So who's going to organize everything here once we've left. ?", Tony asked.
"Well Josh is going arrive here, to supervise the construction of the hotel and repository. once we've gone - so at least he'll get a rest from Franklin for a while.", Jim said.
"And our trip to Europe ?", Ethan asked hopefully.
"Well yes - but that will only be after the next concert at the 'Park Theatre', and a 'gala show' at the 'Combat Club'...", Jim cautioned.
"So - it looks like you'll be writing some more music Ethan...", Teddy quipped.
 |
| Bastet and Sekhmet |
Zac had given Teddy detailed instructions with regard to matters of security as he was confident that Teddy, along with Josh, would keep the group safe.
There was, however little to do, although Tony, assisted by Ashraf, took the opportunity to begin to organize practical and technical matters with the regard to the construction of the 'corporation' facility at 'Medinet Habu'.
Ethan, however, spent much of his time playing with the kittens Bastet and Sekhmet in the 'Winter Palace' gardens.
Ethan, of course, was the custodian of the 'portal', which was unobtrusively hidden in his white plastic 'Walmart' bag - and that was to be their means of unobtrusively leaving Luxor and arriving back in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, Jim and Zac were forced to endure the long, tiring and boring flight back to the US in an Emirates Dreamliner.
 |
| Aliens Observing |
Also, however - in an indefinable 'elsewhere' - our heroes were being watched keenly, and closely, by intelligences greater than man's, and yet equally as mortal... in other words, the so called 'aliens' were observing Jim and his colleagues - and making their own plans and assessments.
(thanks to HG Wells)
Now the following dialogue is in 'Telepathic Alien' - (just one of numerous 'extra-terrestrial' languages) - because it is not intended to be directed to humans - The aliens foolishly believe that they are not being 'overheard' - but then that is to be expected. The text is a translation derived from Teddy's built in 'Stark Universal Translator' - a 'dinky' little device, as Ethan would describe it, that is capable of translating every conceivable structured system of communication that consists of grammar and vocabulary (formal systems of signs governed by rules of combination designed to communicate meaning.)
"The humans 'operate' very slowly...", Alien A observed.
"Yes - but their physical environment creates many distractions for them - like 'sleeping', 'eating' and moving slowly from one place to another.", Alien B replied.
"It seems that the human tagged as 'Tony' is arranging to construct another 'animatronic being' at the insistence of the human tagged as 'Ethan'.
The animatronic being tagged as 'Teddy' - cleverly disguised as a toy for a young human - is very advanced, & equipped with devices that have caused us problems in the past....
It would be unfortunate if this new animatronic was equally advanced.", Alien A stated.
"It is of no matter - the human tagged as 'Marcus' is from 'our makers', and will not use them against us.",
But on that occasion we may have told the humans too much - so we need to be more careful in future.... ", Alien B replied.
"UNDERSTOOD - So when do we need to contact them again ? ", Alien A queried.
"When the new animatronic being is completed, and fully programmed, so that we can assess it's operational parameters.", Alien B replied.
"So where do we contact the selected humans again ?" Alien A queried.
"Somewhere discreet... if they are near the desert area known as 'Nevada' that would be good.", Alien B replied.
"Good.", Alien A echoed.
Now the above is a rather boring conversation - but then they are 'aliens', and are not programmed with humour, sarcasm and other such 'nuanced' speech forms that would relieve the monotony of their communications.
And back in Luxor, in Egypt, Teddy sighed as he tickled Sekhmet's ear...
He was in many ways fortunate to be programmed with empathetic feelings, and so was a bit sorry for the spindly, weird aliens, however, he knew that his first task was to inform Faunus of the conversation - if you could call it a 'conversation' - that he had just intercepted.
"So - back to 'Vegas...", Ethan, who was struggling with his packing once again, said to Faunus.
"And that 'alien' conversation, Teddy - how did you manage to intercept it ?", Faunus asked.
"Well as you probably realize - it wasn't a 'radio' transmission.
The 'aliens' are a bit too sophisticated for that.
No, it was a 'quantum communication' - like what most humans might think of as 'telepathic'.", Teddy replied.
 |
| 'Quantum Communication' |
 |
| Concept Design for 'Bot' |
"So what 'communication-thingy' was that ?", Ethan asked.
"Oh - it was just bit of chat between two 'aliens' that I happened to pick up.", Teddy replied.
"About what ?", Ethan persisted.
"Well, if you must know - about your 'bot', and also about our next meeting with them.", Teddy answered, hoping that Ethan would be satisfied with that vague piece of information.
"So they know about 'Bot'...?", Ethan queried nervously.
"Yes, but it's no problem - and they also mentioned that we were to have another meeting - in Nevada - but didn't say when...", Faunus added.
"Good - so at least they can meet 'Bot'.", Ethan said.
"And whats all this business about 'Bot' - which I presume is what you're going to call this 'droid'.", Ethan asked.
"Well - 'Bot's' someone new for them to meet.", Ethan said lamely.
"Yes - well make sure he's not defective before you introduce him." Teddy said.
Later Ethan contacted the rest of the group in order for them to prepare for the 'trip' through the 'portal.
 |
| Clare |
Once everyone, except for Faunus, but including the kittens and Glaux, were gathered together, with their luggage, and the 'Victorian Lounge' was cleared and locked, Ethan took out the gold box, pressed the red button, and the 'portal' appeared.
Then, with everyone inside the 'portal', the 'portal' itself 'blinked' out - and almost immediately appeared in Jim's study in the 'Penthouse', in Summerlin - Nevada, USA.
"...only way to travel !", Ethan declared, as he allowed Teddy to press the button to open the doors.
Of course Ethan - and also Zac - had warned Clare (Jim and Ethan's house-keeper) that the 'portal' would be arriving, and so she had kept clear of Jim's study.
 |
| 'Renaissance Restaurant' - 'Athena Park Hotel' |
"Oh it's so good to have you back !", Clare said, giving Teddy, and then Ethan, a big, wet kiss.
"...good to be back.", Ethan replied - blushing furiously.
"Now I need to be brushed.", Teddy muttered quietly, as Clare put him down on a coffee table in the living room.
"Later, after their luggage had been sent on for them, they all made their way by limos to the 'Renaissance Restaurant' at the 'Athena Park Hotel' in 'Paradise', where Jim and Zac were waiting for them, for a 'slap-up' meal to celebrate their return Las Vegas.
Later, in the evening, Jim spoke to Clare while she unpacked Jim and Ethan's suitcases, and sorted out the items that needed washing, or dry cleaning.
Jim of course was careful to say little about their brief time in Luxor, but spent more time telling Clare about the 'Cecil Hotel', the visits to the 'Library', and the 'Alexandria Museum'.
 |
| Penthouse Living Room - Summerlin - Las Vegas - Nevada |
Wisely Jim also said nothing about the purchase of land in 'Habu' in Luxor, or the reasons for that purchase.
After Clare had left to make a light evening meal for 'her boys' - Jim and Ethan, and of course Teddy, retired to the living room to relax and talk.
"So Jim...
I really don't like having to keep leaving the kitties and Glaux with Novius at the 'Villa Athena' every time we come back to the Penthouse.", Ethan began, and Jim sighed.
Undeterred Ethan continued...
 |
| Faunus |
"That' true..", Teddy said quietly.
"OK...I know...
"But things keep getting in the way...", Jim tried to explain.
"You should keep your promises, Jim.", a voice sounded from the entrance hall.
It was, of course Faunus.
"My... you got here quick.", Ethan said, obviously very surprised.
"OK..", Jim responded almost angrily - rising from his seat to standing at the huge picture window, presumably not wanting to face Ethan - or Faunus and Teddy for that matter.
 |
| 'Peter Pan' |
"About time, Jim...", Faunus commented.
"So - are you staying Faunus - or is this just one of your 'flying visits' ?", Jim asked.
"Flying visits ? - you mean like your favourite hero, 'Peter Pan',", Faunus asked cryptically.
The reference, not surprisingly, was lost on Ethan, but Teddy knew well what Faunus was possibly inferring
Peter Pan is a character connected with the novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie. A free-spirited and mischievous young boy who can fly, and never grows up, Peter Pan spends his never-ending boy-hood having adventures on the island of 'Neverland' as the leader of a gang called the 'Lost Boys', interacting with fairies, pirates, mermaids, and other characters.
"I'll be staying - for a while, here in Nevada, and probably also in 'Antelope Valley'...", Faunus said, replying to Jim's question....
And with that, Faunus promptly disappeared.
So the next morning began, as usual, with Teddy jumping up and down on the bed, insisting that Jim and Ethan woke up, got showered and dressed, and had their breakfast.
"That's good, because after you went to bed, I described to Teddy what the 'Villa Athena' in Athens looked liked - and he did his best to make a computerized graphic-drawing-thingy of what it was probably like - so you'll have something to show the 'architect-thingy-guys' - that's if they're coming to the 'Club Jaguar' later.", Ethan said nervously.
"So time's getting on - so perhaps we should get Chuck to bring the limo round, and make our way to the 'Club Jaguar', as the architects should be arriving very soon, Jim said, glancing at his 'Patek Philippe' Vintage Dress Watch.
Eventually the two architects were allowed to enter Jim's office.
I want you to design a large villa for my personal use - a villa that will recall for me a place where I lived when I was much younger.", Jim began.
"So I have here a sketch of the style of the villa that I wish you the design - and the project is to be given the title the 'Nova Villa Athenae'...", Jim said, handing over Teddy's computerised graphic.
"I didn't know I had any 'fans', as you put it....", Ethan replied.
"Well that should give the Luxor Hotel a run for their money...", Ethan said.
"So - where do you want to go for lunch ?" Jim asked.
On arrival at the 'Flamingo' there was no 'reception committee', as the staff basically didn't know who they were, but they quickly found Max in the lobby, waiting for them.
"OK - so let's go and have get lunch - Ethan wants steak.", Jim said.
"Well it's not exactly a great money maker - and you can't just justify it as something cultural, like the - even slightly concerts - but in fact you've got to admit that many people would think it a bit 'tacky', and maybe think of it a bit like a 'strip show' - but with guys beating each other up.", Max suggested.
Little was said after the remarks that Max had made.
But as was said before, Kurt was to be found in his office, which was the nerve centre of the club's administration.
"It's in the North-East - close to the Canadian border.
Carter was already stripped and wearing very brief Speedos.
CLICK BELOW
 |
| Penthouse Dining Room - Summerlin - Las Vegas |
"Is 'Bot' also going to do this - when he eventually arrives ?", Jim asked, as he wearily got out of bed.
"Probably - yes.", Teddy replied, holding up his brush, and trying his best to look very 'cute' in the hopes of being groomed.
"Well as soon as he arrives, 'Bot' can do all the brushing...", Ethan said.
After showering and dressing, and allowing Clare to inspect them in order to check that they were 'up to scratch' - they were allowed into the dining room in order to take breakfast, with Teddy muttering about his matted fur.
"So have you forgotten what you promised last night ?", Ethan asked.
"Oh - you mean about the villa ? No , I haven't forgotten.",
 |
| Teddy's Sketch of the 'Villa Athena '- Athens - Ancient Greece |
"So can I see this drawing ?", Jim asked.
"Yes - we left it in your study.", Ethan replied.
So, after breakfast Ethan and Teddy took Jim into Jim's study and showed Jim Teddy's graphic computer rendering, derived from Ethan's description.
"Well that's very good.
It's almost exactly as I remember it.
And this is something like what you would have us build in Henderson ?", Jim said.
"Yes Jim - very Greek, and very 'cool' - and it must have lots of trees and grass for the kitties, and Glaux - and maybe a nice pool like we had at the 'Villa Auream' at Baiae.
 |
| Emma - Jim's Secretary |
Of course Emma, Jim's 'slightly' strange secretary/personal assistant, was at the 'Club Jaguar' reception area when they arrived to greet them, and inform them that two of the architects that Jim retained on a permanent basis were waiting, having been provided with 'industrial strength' coffee, and those tiny little sandwiches, with indefinable fillings, that always unnerved Ethan.
But before Jim met the architects, Emma guided him and Ethan to a 'secret-squirrel' door so that he could enter his lavish office unnoticed, and review Jim's e-mails, text-messages and the like before meeting the architects.
 |
| Jim' Office - Club Jaguar - Summerlin - Las Vegas |
Jim and Ethan were standing in front of Jim's ornate marble topped desk, on which Teddy was sitting.
The office itself had been designed, some time previously, by the self-same architects - and was testimony to their fluency with the neo-classical style that Jim, Ethan and the 'boys' favoured.
These architects were from to the same 'firm' that had offered designs for the 'hotel' that Jim was having built at 'Habu', in Egypt, and the 'Henderson Repository', and therefore were familiar with the somewhat 'unusual' requirements that Jim and Ethan usually required.
And so Jim addressed the architects.
"This new project is rather different to previous projects that I have asked you to deal with, in that it is very personal to me.
 |
| 'Villa de Los Jaguares' - Antelope Valley - California |
Now to the two architects, both senior partners, and middle-aged, the reference to being 'much younger' seemed very strange, as Jim appeared to them to be in his late 'teens', or at most in his very early twenties - so they understood that he was referring to a time when he was a little boy.
However, Jim, except to his close associates, (and people such as Hoover and Tolson), was presumed to be the natural son of the fabulously wealthy and reclusive Alexander Johnson - and so the architects assumed that Jim was referring to the 'Villa de Los Jaguares', (country residence of Alexander Johnson) situated in 'Antelope Valley' in California - and now known as the 'Villa Athena' - that they had helped to 'update',
And so they were expecting a commission to design a villa in 'Neo-Mayan' style.
Regardless - Jim continued....
 |
| Roman 'Tuscan Order' of Classical Architecture |
Teddy's sketch (see above) was a surprise to the architects, as it was definitely not in the 'Neo-Mayan' style, but in the 'Roman Doric' style - often described as 'Tuscan'.
The 'Greek Doric' style of architecture is characterized by a plain, unadorned column capital, and a column that rests directly on the stylobate without a base. The Doric entablature includes a frieze composed of trigylphs - which are vertical plaques with three divisions - and metopes - square spaces for either painted or sculpted decoration. The Roman variation of the 'Doric Order' is the 'Tuscan Order' (see left) that is characterized by simple, unadorned columns, and an unadorned entablature - although trigylphs and undecorated metopes are also featured . The columns also tend to be quite slim.
"Very good, Mr Johnson - we can have some drawing for you in a few days...", the senior partner stated.
"Yes - and I don't want to see just plans and elevations - I want three dimensional images of the building, set in a natural spark land setting. ", Jim stated, knowing that Ethan would not find architects' drawings particularly easy to interpret.
Jim then pressed the button that would summon Emma immediately to guide the two visitors swiftly out of the office.
Jim then turned to Ethan.
"So Ethan, what have we got for the next concert at the 'Park Theatre' - after all, your 'fans' are doubtless eager to take delight in your next offering.
 |
| 'Park Theatre' - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Well let me assure you that you do...
And while Aaron, and some other musical acts that Josh has hired in the interim have been doing quite well, it seems that your 'extravaganzas' have had the most success.", Jim explained
"Well, I'm not quite sure what 'extravaganzas' means - or 'interim', but I realty think that it is because you come to my concerts, and that people come to see you, and the other guys, and that's why the TV and papers make such a 'thing' about my stuff.", Ethan said.
"You really believe that, don't you, Ethan....", Jim responded.
"Well - it's true, isn't it ?", Ethan said
"OK...", Jim said, not wanting to upset Ethan...
"But can you get some new stuff ready quite soon ?", Jim asked.
"Yes - but have you any suggestions for a theme for this concert ?", Teddy replied on behalf of Etan.
"Well, as we have just come from Egypt - why not an Egyptian theme ?", Jim asked.
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| Luxor Hotel & Casino - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Yes, and why haven't you bought the 'Luxor' ? - after all, we undoubtedly know a lot more about Egypt than the present owners.", Teddy said, sneaking in one of his subtle suggestions.
"Now look Teddy, we've got enough goining on here at the moment without thinking about buying yet another Hotel - so lets just concentrate on the villa at Henderson, the next concert, and the upcoming show at the 'Combat Club'.
"Ok Jim - but it is an interesting idea...", Teddy persisted.
"Yes - but now, after we have had lunch, we need to see Kurt, and check out the 'Combat Club'.", Jim said firmly.
The 'Luxor Hotel Vegas' is a hotel and casino on the 'Las Vegas Strip' in 'Paradise', Nevada, USA. The hotel has 30 stories. It has a 120,000-square-foot (11,000 m2) casino. It also has over 2,000 slot machines and 87 table games. The hotel has 4,400 rooms. There are also 442 suites. All the rooms line the inside walls of a pyramid style tower. Twin 22-story ziggurat towers were built as later additions. The hotel is named after the city of Luxor in ancient Thebes in Egypt. The 'Luxor Hotel' is the second largest hotel in Las Vegas. At the time when Teddy and Jim are talking about the hotel it has a 4-5 star rating.
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| 'Flamingo Hotel & Casino' - Paradise - Las Vegas - Nevada |
"Well I fancy a very well filled- real steak cheese-burger...", Ethan announced.
"So where ?", Jim asked.
"Well, you've just been talking about getting new hotels - so what about our most recent hotel - the Flamingo ?", Ethan suggested.
"Oh yes - Bugsy's place. ", Teddy said.
Jim had acquired the Flamingo as part of the deal, when he took over the old 'Caesars Palace', as the two hotels were under the same ownership. Jim only visited the hotel once, for an inspection, but Ethan, Teddy, Max, 'Sigi' and Caleb visited on a later occasion.
Since then Max had been given the task of overseeing the renovation of the hotel.
"And, can we can go and see how the real flamingos are doing...", Ethan said.
"Standing on one leg, probably...", Teddy mumbled.
"Of course - and can you ask Max to meet us there ?", Jim asked.
So Ethan contacted Max on his cell-phone, only to find that Max was already at the Flamingo.
And so they drove the short distance to the 'Flamingo'.
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| Max at the Flamingo Hotel Lobby - Las Vegas |
"Well this looks a bit better.", Jim commented, glancing round at the huge entrance lobby.
"Yes, and I've checked that the pool is up and running.", Max added.
"So have you had time to check on the 'feedback' coming in ?", Ethan asked.
"Yes - it seems generally good - but then you need to take into account the fact that room prices here are very low, and most of the money that we make here is from the casino receipts - and a great deal of gambling goes on here.", Max explained.
"And the rooms ?", Jim asked.
"Well no better than you'd expect - considering the room prices.", Max replied.
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| 'Bugsy’s Steak House' - Flamingo Hotel - Las Vegas |
"Ok - well the 'Bugsy & Meyer’s Steak House', where we went with Caleb, has been remodeled in part.
"Hope you like it.", Max told Jim, as he led them past innumerable slot machines to the restaurant.
"Mm - cute - but in a creepy sort of way - and very, very pink.", Ethan muttered, as he surveyed the considerably oversized flamingos decorating the walls.
"Well I can see that we're trying to make the place a bit more 'up-market'....", Jim said approvingly.
"...'like the white table-cloths...", Teddy commented.
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| 'Original Flamingo Casino' - Las Vegas - Nevada - USA |
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| 'Bugsy' Siegel |
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. 'Bugsy' was a driving force behind the development of the Las Vegas Strip.
for more information about 'Bugsy' Siegel go to: Part-2-Book-3-Chapter-2
A few moments after they had taken their seats, Giovanni, the maître d', was at their table to greet them.
Ethan, as part owner of the 'Flamingo', had retained the maître d' after the 'Athena Corporation' had first taken over the hotel, feeling that his Italian name and accent would sound sufficiently 'Mafiosi' to intrigue the diners using the restaurant.
After Teddy had his say, Giovanni offered to take their order - but was being very careful not to make any comments about Teddy sitting on the table - mainly because of what had happened when Ethan and Teddy had previously visited the restaurant.
"So Sir, where do we go from here ?", Max then asked Jim.
Jim looked to Ethan and Teddy.
"First we have to ty and get Ethan to write some music for the next 'Park Theatre Concert'.. as I suggested when we spoke earlier in the office in Summerlin.", Jim replied.
"No problemo -
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| California Combat Club Logo |
Just let me get to work on my digital piano.", Ethan said enthusiastically.
"Then we need to organize a new 'spectacular' at the 'California Combat Club'. Jim added.
"I'm puzzled, Sir.", Max then interrupted....
"Why do you bother with the ' Combat Club' ? - after all, the real money, as far as I know, is in the hotels, and particularly the casinos.
And then there's the mining and oil operations, which I think probably make a huge amount of money.
The concerts, I can understand, as they help your public image and reputation in 'Vegas, and even Nevada.", Max queried, unsure what to say next.
"So what's the problem with the "Combat Club". Jim asked.
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| Brody & Paco Previously a the 'Combat Club |
Ethan looked nervous, thinking that Max had gone too far - and was worried about how Jim was going to react - mainly because very few people criticised Jim - even slightly.
"I know that no one will make any problems for you.
Chief Eckart is on very friendly terms, and you carefully keep to all the city and county ordinances about age restrictions, and the no alcohol rules, but you really avoid any publicity - like going there and leaving by a private entrance, and watching the show from a VIP box with one-way glass, so no one ever sees you there, but it all seems a bit strange", Max concluded.
"OK Max - point taken, but we are in a public place, so this is not a suitable location for discussing this.
So, when we've finished the meal, and Ethan's had a look 'at the flamingos, the we'll go to the 'Combat Club', and I'll attempt to fill you in on the situation.", Jim said.
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| Flamingos at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino - Las Vegas |
Ethan, obviously, was nervous and didn't want to pursue Max's remarks in case it annoyed Jim.
Teddy, of course, was so clever that he not only understood why Jim was so attached to the 'Combat Club', but also understood why Jim didn't want to discuss the real reasons in such a public place.
And so the interlude visiting the flamingos made a welcome and relaxing break from the more fraught matters surrounding any explanations that Jim might be prepared to give later.
"So, here you are, Ethan...", Jim said, trying to lighten the mood, as they came to the garden area where the flamingos were to be found.
"Well, they look better than last time...", Teddy commented.
"Yes - they're not standing on one leg, or looking grumpy.
So why's that ? - you're our flamingo expert.", Ethan said, asking Teddy, and sounding puzzled.
"I think last time we saw them they were feeling a bit too hot.
Like I told you before, if you remember, they stand on one leg in water to cool off.", Teddy explained.
"Yes, and I suppose that must be a bit uncomfortable...which explains why the would look grumpy.", Ethan observed.
"OK - so if you're happy with the Flamingos, I suggest be drive down to the 'California Combat Club'...", Jim then proposed.
It was a short drive, and moments later they arrived at the 'Athena Park Hotel' in 'Paradise'.
Jim, however, was never keen to enter the 'Combat Club' by the main entrance, and so usually he arrived at the 'Park Hotel', and then took a concealed route that brought brought them out at the administrative centre of the club.
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| Rainy Night - Las Vegas - Nevada - USA |
And the nerve centre of the club's administration was Kurt's office.
Kurt Neumann was an 'associate' of the 'Boss', Alexander Johnson, from 'way back' - long before Jim had arrived on the scene as the 'Lost Boy' on the streets of Las Vegas.
Having practiced numerous combat sports himself in the past, Kurt was well qualified to be a trainer and manager of the club, with an excellent eye for new talent.
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| Damien's Audition - Combat Club |
Kurt also has an good appreciation of the requirements of the sophisticated and wealthy audience who attend the 'spectacles' offered by the 'California Combat Club'.
In our story, Kurt first appears in Chapter XIV - 'A New Beginning', when he supervises the auditions of the two new wrestlers, Damien and Brody.
Kurt, who came from Queens, New York, originally met Alexander Johnson in Los Angeles, California, shortly after the 'Boss' returned from Mexico, laden with Mayan artefacts, and it was Kurt who was to be of invaluable assistance in later setting up and managing the 'California Combat Club', (which explains why the the name 'California' appears in the title of the club)
Kurt was also Alexander Johnson's contact with 'organized crime', when such a contact was needed.
When the 'Boss' was killed during a trip to Mexico, Kurt immediately switched his complete allegiance to Jim, in accordance with the wishes of the 'Boss', when Jim inherited.
Also, on Jim's instructions, Kurt often works with Zac and the 'Athena Security Service', and he and always carries a 'Beretta 92FS' when acting as Jim's bodyguard.
for more information about Kurt and the 'Boss' and the Club go to the article - 'The California Combat Club'
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| Kurt Neumann - 'California Combat Club' |
"So how's it going, Kurt ?", Jim asked as the stepped into Kurt's office.
"Hello, Sir - glad you could look in.", Kurt said, barely looking up rom his laptop.
To Max it seemed strange to hear Kurt addressing Jim as 'Sir', as Kurt was somewhat older than Jim, but Kurt was punctilios in responding to people according to their position in the hierarchy of the 'Athena Corporation', and Jim of course was at the very apex of that hierarchy.
"So - how are you, and how are preparations going for the next show ?", Jim asked, getting straight down to business.
"Things are going well - and of course we have continued with the 'low-key' shows with good attendance, and good takings from the betting.
I'll show Max the 'books' later, if you like.
But now that you and the others are back from your jaunt, we have some new 'hopefuls' to show you - if you have the time to check them out.", Kurt said.
"OK - so who have you got ?", Jim asked.
"Well the 'Combat Club' 'boys', (by that Kurt meant principally Mikey, Tripp and Adam & Adam's assistant, Jerry), have been 'sounding out' some of our clients - to see if they have any preferences regarding the kind of 'performers' they'd like to see in the future...", Kurt explained.
"And ?", Jim asked.
"It seems that would like to see some slightly more 'mature' guys - with possibly matches between 'youth' and 'experience' - so with your consent I would like to audition some guys that we have approached.", Kurt proposed.
"...'sounds interesting...", Ethan commented , and Jim nodded in agreement.
So Jim agreed to Kurt's suggestion regarding the auditions...
"That's good, Jim - so just give me a little time while I get the guys ready...", Kurt said - beginning to relax again with his young 'boss' - as he called Tripp to give him a series of instructions.
"So who have we got then ?", Jim asked.
"Well, maybe some good material - and the younger ones look very good - but we'll see - anyway the first guy for you to see calls himself 'Holden'.", Kurt said.
" - 'calls himself' ?", Jim queried, obviously puzzled.
"Well - in this sort of business - and on first meeting, it's unlikely that you'd get all the full information - after all, he doesn't trust us, and we don't trust him...", Kurt stated.
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| 'Holden' |
"True...", Jim replied, as 'Holden' was brought into the photo studio by Jerry - Adam's young assistant.
Holden was wearing blue jeans and a red plaid shirt - looking every inch a 'farm-boy'.
"OK Holden, strip off, and put on these wrestling trunks.", Kurt said handing him tiny Speedos.
'Holden' was somewhat taken aback, but he obviously needed the work, so he did what he was told.
This gentleman would be your 'boss' - if he decides to take you on....
And you just call him 'Sir' - OK ?", Kurt said.
"OK...", 'Holden' replied, wondering what he'd got himself into.
"Nice to meet you - 'Holden'.", Jim said, offering his hand.
'Holden' blushed - shook hands with Jim, but made no reply.
"So where do you come from ?", Jim asked, while 'Holden stripped off, and put on the Speedos he had been given.
"DuBois, Pennsylvania - Sir..", 'Holden replied.
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| 'Holden' - Flexing at his Audition |
Lots of people there are of German descent.", Kurt said quietly to Jim, knowing that Jim had very little knowledge of the US outside of Nevada and California.
"So, you thought you'd come to try your luck in sunny Nevada.", Jim said, smiling.
"Yes Sir...", Holden replied, remembering to be polite.
"OK, 'Holden' - show us your muscles.", Kurt said - and Tripp guided him over to where the photo-shoot area set was set up with a black background.
And 'Holden started to flex his muscles.
"So you've been in some 'bodybuilding contests'... ", Kurt observed.
"Yes Boss - but only local ones - except for one in Pittsburgh", 'Holden' replied.
Kurt then took Jim by the arm, and led him away from where 'Holden was by then taking instructions from Adam.
"We really need this young guy...", Kurt began.
"He's got the looks, the muscle and even the 'glamour' that would bring in the 'punters' - even if he can't wrestle.", Kurt continued quietly.
"Yes - I can see what you're getting at Kurt.
So let's do the photo session - get Zac to check him out - and then take him on.
But I only have time to view one more new guy, as I have some other matters to attend to, but I will look in tomorrow to see the others", Jim said.
"OK, well this guys I think you will approve of - apart from his tattoos, which I know you are not keen on.", Kurt said.
"Well yes, but where I came from guys didn't have tattoos.", Jim explained without giving too much away.
"OK.", Kurt said, giving a nod to Tripp.
And so Jim got his first sight of 'Kid Carter'.
"This young man likes to call himself 'Kid Carter', and it might be a good 'nom de guerre', as we might say.", Kurt began as way of introduction.
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| 'Kid Carter' - Flexing at his Audition |
"Well this is a 'kid' you wouldn't like to meet on a dark night.", Jim said, as Carter displayed his magnificent biceps.
"Carter - this is possibly your new boss - if he approves of you - so be polite and call him Sir.", Kurt said, directing Carter over to the area of the studio with the proper lighting and a blank, black wall.
"Please to meet you Sir.", Carter said, clasping his hands in front of his prominent, manly bulge.
"So, Carter - why do you call yourself 'Kid'.", Jim asked.
"Oh it's just a left over from high school - when I first arrived I was taller than most of the other guys, so they thought it a joke to call me 'kid'.", Carter explained, sounding rather embarrassed.
"Well, he's certainly your 'all-American boy next door'...", Ethan said.
"So - ", Jim began, turning to Kurt.
"Any further new recruits will have to wait until tomorrow as I have some other business to attend to...", Jim said.
Jim had obviously decided to have an early night, although he was keen to keep up the image of the diligent and hard-working chief executive.
What Jim was really concerned about, however, was getting Ethan back to the 'Penthouse', so that he could spend time working on the next concert.
Faunus arrives unexpectedly with a small gift for Ethan - and Jim encourages Ethan to get to work on the upcoming concert.
The following day Jim inspects the architects drawing for the proposed villa at Henderson. and later Jim, Ethan and Teddy and Max return to the 'California Combat Club' to inspect some more recruits.
FOR
All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2023
All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2023
Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 2023