to enlarge images open in a new tab
Please note that this chapter is intended for adult viewers (over 18 years), and contains images featuring nudity and explicit sexuality. Please do not view this chapter if you find such features objectionable....
Please note that this chapter is intended for adult viewers (over 18 years), and contains images featuring nudity and explicit sexuality. Please do not view this chapter if you find such features objectionable....
While the 'present' forges ahead
the 'past' still retains its mysteries and enigmas
the 'past' still retains its mysteries and enigmas
Once
Zac had finished transferring the photo-shoot image files of Brody onto the iPad, the
group made their way out of the office, and then out onto the side-walk,
where Chuck was patiently waiting for them with the white Cadillac.
With
the doors opened for them, the 'Boss', followed by his 'associates'
settled themselves in the roomy white leather interior of the stretch limo.
"An
interesting morning !", the 'Boss' commented, as they settled
themselves down.
"Yes, Sir - but did you find it successful ?", Jim asked.
"Yes, Sir - but did you find it successful ?", Jim asked.
“I
think so...”, the ‘Boss’ replied carefully.
“Brody
seems to be very much the sort of boy we’re looking for.
We
have a few other young guys – who do well for us, but Brody has –
how shall we say – an ‘aura’ about him that I think will get
him noticed."
"And
the contract ?
Was it good, Sir ?”, Zac asked.
Was it good, Sir ?”, Zac asked.
“Well
you’ll see a copy of it when we are back in the Club Jaguar, and
I’m sure that Brody will be wanting to tell you about it as soon as
you see him next.”, the ‘Boss replied, not giving too much away.
“By
the way...I forgot to thank you for bringing the guy to our attention
– and I’ll make it worth you while.”, the ‘Boss added.
“So
how about we go back to the Club Jaguar and have a spot of lunch ?”,
the ‘Boss’ asked, obviously feeling relaxed after a successful
business deal.
“I
thought you’d never ask.”, Ethan replied, and the ‘Boss’
smiled.
Some
minutes later the huge Cadillac drew up outside the Club Jaguar.
The doormen, instantly recognising the large white stretch limo as one of the many belonging to the 'Boss', were immediately on the side-walk, making a space for the 'Boss' and his entourage to pass into the Club Jaguar, holding open doors, while young bellhops were scurrying off to warn the assistant manager, and the maître d', of the arrival of the 'Boss'.
The first stop was at reception, for messages for the 'Boss', and instructions from the 'Boss', and then it was on the the restaurant.
As they arrived in the attractive airy restaurant, waiters were already laying a large table, and the maître d' was standing by, supervising, and waiting to greet his 'Boss'.
By this time the maître d' was aware that menus should be provided in English, and the boys were sufficiently familiar with restaurant dining to make their own orders, and not rely on the 'Boss ' to order on their behalf.
Once the formalities were over, they all sat back and were at liberty to chat.
"So.....", Ethan began...., "How long before you think we can see young Brody in action ?".
The 'Boss' looked quizzically at Zac.
"Weeks...months...I'm not really sure.
It depends on how well he responds to his coaching."
"At least a month.", Zac replied.
"But if you're really keen on seeing Brody,", Zac said, grinning at Ethan, then you can always go down to the Combat Club, and watch him while he trains."
Ethan blushed.
"Well, it's just that I kinda like him.", Ethan tried to explain.
"We know....", Zac said, showing mock concern - "but I think he'd be a bit rough for you, Ethan !".
"Now then !....let's leave Ethan alone.", the 'Boss' intervened.
"But when Brody has his first 'outing', I'll have a video link fitted up to the 'home cinema' at the penthouse, and then you can all watch the internal video coverage of the match." the 'Boss' offered.
"Wow ! That'll be great !", Josh said, obviously equally keen to see Brody perform in the ring.
"So how often does the Combat Club hold matches ?", Jim asked, realizing that, as the 'Boss' was obviously intending to get him more involved in this particular aspect of his business dealings, he should really get to know a little more about it.
"Usually once a fortnight, as it takes some time to get the matches organised, and then there's the 'vetting' of the club members.", the 'Boss' replied.
"So what do you mean by 'vetting' the club members ?", Ethan asked, obviously puzzled.
"It's because of the kind of shows that are put on...dummy.", Zac replied.
Ethan still looked puzzled.
"You have to understand, Ethan, that because the shows are a little, shall we say, 'risqué', it's important to keep these events limited to 'trustworthy' individuals - so..no cameras, mobile 'phones reporters etc. - and only those that can be trusted not to 'talk' too much.
Of course the match entry fees are so high, that only the very well off, and the very well connected can afford to attend, and their interests would obviously not be served if they were to make their attendance at these events a matter of public knowledge.", the 'Boss' explained.
Ethan nodded in agreement, but he was still a little confused by the explanations that he had been given, but regardless, as long as he could watch the matches from the privacy of the 'penthouse cinema' he was more than satisfied.
By then the 'Boss' had been served his first 'Jack Daniels', and the hors d'oeuvres (US 'appetizers') had already been brought to the table.
"Just to get away from this talk about the Combat Club, there are certain matters - maybe - more serious matters - that need dealing with.As this morning has probably indicated, your position is becoming a little more prominent, and your financial and personal profiles need to be more firmly established.
So - when lunch is over - I want you all to come up to the offices to have a word with Franklin.", the 'Boss' said.
The boys looked at one another questioningly.
"Franklin is my chief legal and financial adviser, with large staff working for him.
He has produced legitimate identities and credit profiles for each of you that can be linked to your current employment information, credit cards and banking details.
This will make your involvement in the workings of my corporations a great deal easier.
For you it will only be a matter of signing certain papers.
From then on Franklin shall look after your interests under my supervision.", the 'Boss' concluded, as the main course arrived.
The boys all nodded - not entirely understanding what they were being told, but trusting that what the 'Boss' was doing was in their best interests.
"And now boys, I have a little present for some of you.
As you are doubtless aware, in this time and place people have a first name, and a surname.
Each of you was given a first name by Faunus, when you 'arrived'.
For better of for worse, that can't really be changed now, as a number of people have come to know you by that name - and anyway we do not want any further confusion for yourselves regarding your own identity.
Franklin, however, has had to provide you with full names in order to construct viable legal and financial identities for you.
Josh - for reasons that I can't really recall, has already been given a full name, which is....", and here the 'Boss' somewhat amusingly made a pause, as if he was making a momentous announcement....."Joshua Paul Walton".
Ethan sniggered.
"Well, Ethan...just wait until you hear your name.", the 'Boss' said, with a twinkle in his eyes.
"Ethan's name is to be Ethan Mark Duncan - Zac's name is Zac James Taylor, and Jim is to be known as Jim - or James Edward Johnson - 'Jaguar Jim' to his friends."
The boys looked at one another grinning, not really sure if they should be pleased or not.
"Let me assure you, gentlemen, these names were not chosen by Franklin randomly.
Names are important, and in this particular society these name have a certain subliminal quality that will give you a certain 'advantageous dignity' - and this particularly refers to your newly given surname.
This society is not, as many people foolishly imagine, an 'egalitarian' society, and just as your manner of speaking, clothing and tastes in general all indicate your 'class' - almost a 'dirty word' in this society - so does your name.
So please be assured - you have, each of you, been well named.
Out of the silence Ethan, inevitably, spoke.
"Sir, what does subliminal mean ?".
The 'Boss' shook his head.
"Look it up on Google, Mr Duncan." the 'Boss' replied, smiling.
"Yes, Sir.", Ethan said despondently.
"Is Franklin available ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"Of course 'Boss'.", Katrina replied, and she led them down a corridor to yet another of those ubiquitous mahogany doors.
Katrina buzzed the door, and a surprisingly youthful voice replied - "Enter".
 |
| Franklin |
"Good morning 'Boss'.", he said nervously.
This was Franklin.
Now if the 'boys' had been familiar with the term, they would have described Franklin as a 'geek'.
The word comes from English dialect 'geek' or 'geck' (meaning a 'fool' or 'freak'; from Middle Low German Geck). 'Geck' is a standard term in modern German, and means 'fool' or 'fop'Franklin's 'geekishness' - if there is such a word, was ideal as far as the 'Boss' was concerned.
Franklin, who was undoubtedly high on the spectrum of autism, was obsessed with -
one, 'computers', and two 'detail' - and that was about it.
So...there was no chance of Franklin indulging in any underhand or illegal business, or attempting to take over the financial empire that had been created by the 'Boss', mainly because Franklin did not have a single iota of imagination or ambition - and that was just the way the 'Boss' wanted it.Generally, the 'Boss' treated Franklin as a sad 'puppy' that needed looking after but, despite this, the 'Boss' respected Franklin's monumental abilities, and relied on him almost entirely.
"These, Franklin, are my 'associates' - the young men that you have been 'organising for me recently.", the 'Boss' explained.
Franklin nodded - apparently incapable of making any kind of 'small talk'.
"I want you to take a little time now to finalise the details, and ensure that all the relevant documents etc. are 'signed and sealed'.", the 'Boss' said.
Franklin nodded again, and using his intercom, summoned some assistants.
"So boys,", the 'Boss' said, turning to away from Franklin, so that his remarkable 'minion' wouldn't see him smiling, "I will wait for you in my office.
And Ethan, - no witty comments...please...they just won't be understood", the 'Boss' said as he left.
Unfortunately for the 'boys' it all took a very long time.
Franklin was studiously meticulous - in fact infuriatingly meticulous.
He checked every detail so many times that even Jim, who was very accommodating, began to begone agitated.
Eventually, after all the form filling, checking, and signing Franklin was able to announce that he thought it was all completed.
Jim, seeing a chance that they might be able to escape, instantly intervened.
"Many thanks, Franklin.", he said, gathering up all the papers and plastic that belonged to him, and indicated to the others to do the same.
Hurriedly, and without further comment they left Franklin's office - hoping never to return.
"So what's wrong with that guy ?", Ethan asked, as they made their way down the corridor.
"Is he a bit stupid, or something ?".
"No...not stupid.", Jim replied.
"In fact, I should say very clever, or the 'Boss' wouldn't give him such an important job.", Jim continued.
Fortunately, at that point they ran into Katrina, who was able to show them the way to the office of the 'Boss'.
"So what did you think of 'our Franklin' ?", Katrina asked, smiling.
"Wierd !", Josh replied.
"Yes...he is a bit off-putting - but he's amazing at his job.",Katrina commented.
"Well...I find him really creepy...", Ethan said.
"Obviously not your type,", Katrina said, smiling
"Not at all !....", Ethan replied.
"Ethan's type, it seems, is young Brody !", Zac suggested.
"And who is Brody ?", Katrina asked, looking intrigued.
"Oh...he's this 'drop-dead gorgeous' young wrestler Ethan's got the 'hots' for.", Josh explained.
"No I haven't !", Ethan replied, petulantly.
"I just like him...that's all." and with that Ethan started sulking.
At that point they arrived a the study of the 'Boss'.
Katrina buzzed, and the 'Boss' called them in.
And so thy trooped in, and stood in front of the 'Boss', like a line of naughty schoolboys in front of their headmaster.
"So....gentlemen....
You've all got all those essential accoutrements necessary for living in this strange society in which we find ourselves ?", the 'Boss' asked, remaining seated at his desk.
The 'boys' nodded, each carrying a 'letter size' (non US 'A4') black leather wallet, which contained all the documentation that Franklin had provided.
"And you were polite to Franklin, Ethan ?", the 'Boss' asked, smiling.
"Yes, Sir.....but it was difficult.", Ethan admitted.
"Well I'm sure it was, Ethan....but I'm pleased.
Despite his strange....'distant' manner, Franklin is very easily upset, and we don't want that happening, do we ?", the 'Boss' teased.
"No, Sir.", Ethan replied, wondering why he was being picked on.
There was then a moments pause, and Jim stepped forward.
"So, Sir, before we go, there is something we would like to ask you.", Jim began hesitantly.
"Yes....go on...", the 'Boss' replied questioningly.
"Well...we would like to invite you to the penthouse....for dinner.
You've treated us to so many meals...so we thought we should do the same.", Jim said.
"And will anyone else be at this 'soirée' ?", the 'Boss' asked.
Ethan had no idea what the word 'soirée' meant, but thought better of asking, not wanting to disturb the pleasant atmosphere.
"Just us, and Faunus.", Jim explained.
"And of course Glaux.", Josh added.
"Of course, Glaux.", the 'Boss' repeated, smiling.
"And when is this ?", the 'Boss' asked.
"In two days time - if your free.", Zac replied, not wanting to be left out of the arrangements.
"Well, that's charming.",the 'Boss' replied, seemingly touched by the invitation.
"Good, then if there's nothing else, we'll be going." Jim said.
 |
| Penthouse Dining Room at Night |
"Oh....well it's a bit plain, isn't it ?", he said, rather disappointed.
Jim quickly joined him
"Well, for someone who was living on the street not that long ago, you have become a bit fussy, Ethan.", Jim commented.
"I like it." Josh said, joining the others.
"Nice "", Zac commented as he went past, just glancing in.
"So Jim....you'd better get on the 'phone to Claire and get her to arrange for the caterers.", Josh said, as he went round the room inspecting the tables and chairs, and in particular the fine piece of sculpture in one corner.
Jim quickly joined him
"Well, for someone who was living on the street not that long ago, you have become a bit fussy, Ethan.", Jim commented.
"I like it." Josh said, joining the others.
"Nice "", Zac commented as he went past, just glancing in.
"So Jim....you'd better get on the 'phone to Claire and get her to arrange for the caterers.", Josh said, as he went round the room inspecting the tables and chairs, and in particular the fine piece of sculpture in one corner.
As they were considering the planned dinner for the 'Boss' the entry phone buzzer sounded.
Jim looked at Zac quizzically.
"That'll be Brody." Jim said.
"Ah !...Your 'boy-friend', Ethan.", Zac said.
Ethan, very sensibly, didn't rise to the bait, but very formally went to the entry 'phone, buzzed for Brody to come up, and then greeted him very politely at the door, and told him that Zac was waiting in the main living room.
"Come into the study, Brody, and I'l tell what the 'Boss' has in mind for you.", Zac said.
Once seated in the study, Zac explained the situation.
"Now the 'Boss' is not going to offer you a penthouse, or anything like that, but it will be a neat, small fully furnished apartment in this building, which is close to the Club Jaguar, our gym and the California Combat Club."
Zac then paused, sizing up how to say the next part.
"Now I have to tell you this...but don't be offended.
The 'Boss doesn't wan't you 'hustling' any more.
He thinks it's too dangerous, and he thinks now that you should have no financial problems that would incline you to do anything like that.
If it's just sex that you want, then we can always provide you with a partner of whatever sex you prefer.
Is that OK ?", Zac asked.
"That's fine.", Brody said, smiling.
"The apartment itself will be on the fourth floor - for security reasons - with a bedroom, living-room, bathroom, kitchen, and a fitness room.
Cleaning will be taken care of by one of the apartment block staff.
As you have seen from your contract, the minimal rent will be deducted straight from your monthly income, and services - like electricity, water, heating etc, will all be included.
So do you agree to all of that ?", Zac asked.
Brody nodded.
Zac then took an agreement from his desk, and got Brody to sign.
"Right, lets go down to the concierge - we'll get you to sign for the keys, and you can have a quick look at the apartment, and sign the inventory.", Zac said.
The concierge had already been contacted by one of Franklin's minions, and so signing for the apartment, and obtaining the keys was no problem.
"If ever you have a problem with the keys - like losing them or some shit - just check in with the concierge, show him your identity and he'll give you a new set.
And remember the 'keys' are electronic - so the lock will have been reset as soon as the loss was reported - so if you find the old set...well they won't work.", Zac explained.
Brody pocketed the keys, and then Zac took him up to the apartment on the fourth floor to check the inventory.
As they entered, Brody, as one would expect, was amazed by the luxurious apartment.
It was small by comparison with the penthouse - but then the penthouse housed three - Ethan, Jim and Josh, whereas the fourth floor apartment was only for one individual.
The first room that they checked was a small TV and living room.
Fortunately it had been decorated in a very masculine style - all blacks, white and grey.
Brody wandered around, gazing, and felt the walls.
"Are these real marble ?", he questioned, obviously amazed.
"Yep !", Zac replied.
"Walls and floors.
Everything in this place is real.", Zac replied, as he also felt the smooth coolness of the marble veneers.
"Ideal for a warm place like Vegas." Zac commented.
"So where did you live before ?", Brody asked, casually.
Now that was a difficult question for Zac to answer.
"Oh, a long way from here.
You probably never heard of it, but it was warm - like here.", Zac replied, avoiding a straight answer.
"So what do we do ? Count all the cushions ?", Brody asked.
"No...just make sure that the main items of furniture are here.
All the other stuff - knives forks, towels bedlinen and so forth is just 'gratis'.", Zac replied.
The second room that they checked was the Bedroom.
Brody was surprised, but privately pleased to see that the very modern looking bedroom contained a double bed.
Opposite the bed there was a complete wall of mirror fronted wardrobes.
A door from the bedroom led to the bath, and shower room, which could be also accessed from the main corridor.
Again, the floor and the walls were sheathed in marble - dark grey for the walls and pale grey for the floors.
Brody looked around, noticing how clean and new everything looked.
"Who lived here before me ?", he asked, intrigued.
"No one...", Zac replied.
"Almost the whole apartment block is empty....
The 'Boss', as you may have gathered, has little need of rents, and only likes people he knows living in his top class properties", Zac explained.
"But fuck...this place must be worth a fortune !", Brody exclaimed.
"It is !", Zac said, stating the obvious.
The next room they entered was the main living room.
"This serves as the main living room, but it also has a small kitchen attached - not that I would imagine that you'd be doing much cooking.
There's another nice flat screen TV, and also a balcony where you can exercise, and sit in the sun.
There's a few framed pictures here that haven't been hung.
If you don't care for them, just give them to the concierge.
They are on the inventory - as they're expensive - so don't just throw them out.", Zac warned.
This room's not very private, but you have the small TV and living room for more 'private' occasions.", Zac said, smiling. (see above).
"And finally, this is the room that the 'Boss' hopes that you will like....", Zac said as he opened another door.
"Shit ! That's really amazing !", Brody exclaimed, as he looked around the beautifully equipped room.
"There is an adjustable bench on the way to complete the main 'stack machine', but you can start using the pulleys, dumbbells and the exercise bike as soon as you like.
There is one condition, however, relating to this....", Zac continued.
"Which is ?", Brody questioned.
"Which is that the boys, Jim, Josh and Ethan can, under your supervision, use this equipment on occasions.", Zac said.
"Well of course...", Brody said, sounding relieved.
Brody went over to the dumbbell rack, and almost caressed the cold steel.
He looked very emotional.
"I really can't believe that all this is happening.
You know, Zac...the day you and I started talking was probably one of the luckiest days of my life."
"Well, perhaps you won't feel quite so lucky after your first match...", Zac suggested.
"Yes...but that's all part of the 'game' - and you just have to take what comes...", Brody replied.
Zac, however, was not so sure.
"So, after we've been to the gym, and had a swim, are you planning to move in ?", Zac asked casually.
"Not really...", Brody said, somewhat shyly.
"Well the 'Boss' doesn't want you hanging about that sleazy area where you live now any longer than necessary." Zac said, going back to his more businesslike manner.
"Is there a problem...?", Zac then asked.
"Yes, but I don't like to say.....It's money.", Brody admitted.
"Like in what way ?", Zac asked.
"Well - I'm behind in the rent, and I have no way to bring my stuff except in a taxi - which I can't afford.", Brody explained, obviously embarrassed.
"OK...that can be easily solved.
First, there's a garage under the apartment block, and Chuck's got a few trucks down there - different sizes - so he can easily bring your stuff.
On the way, we can stop off at the Club Jaguar, and get Franklin to give you an advance on your pay.
So.... where do we find the guy you rent from ?", Zac continued.
"He lives in the same building - that's part of the problem. ", Brody explained.
"OK, we'll take Jim, Josh and Ethan with us - then he'll be no problem.", Zac said with a grin.
"So, lets go to the concierge.
From there I'll 'phone the boys to come down, and the concierge can get Chuck to bring a truck round.", Zac said, obviously enjoying a bit of action.
The 'boys' Jim, Josh and Ethan quickly gathered in the basement garage, looking a bit bemused, where Chuck selected a 'cool' looking Chevy truck.
Zac was quickly able to explain the situation, and the 'boys' were all keen to see a bit more of the town.
In next to no time, with everyone aboard, they were off the the Club Jaguar.
While the 'boys' waited in the truck, Zac and Brody went to see Franklin.
Franklin ha already been warned by the 'Boss' that there might be requests for pre-payments of salary - the 'Boss' was no fool' - so there was no problem, and one of Franklin's equally 'geeky' assistants was soon counting out crisp dollar bills.
Brody, still amazed at the slick way that everything was being handled, then returned to the waiting truck with Zac.
The trip to Brody's apartment was quite long, and took the boys through parts of Vegas that they had never seen before - and parts that they would also prefer not to have to see again.
Brody's one room apartment was situated in a run down building - obviously an example of 'Public Housing' that had been sold off, at some stage, to a private owner to be let out as private apartments.
The owner of the property to whom Brody owed rent was unwashed, unshaven and smelled strongly of drink.
Zac dealt with him quite roughly, demanding access to Brody's apartment, which was on the third floor, (the apartment without the air-conditioning unit), after the payment of the rent due had been made - in cash.
As the 'boy's helped Brody with his clothes and other possessions, Zac handed over the keys, and required a fully detailed receipt on behalf of Brody.
The owner of the apartment house looked far from happy, but being completely outnumbered, made to objections.
Once everything had been loaded onto the truck, Chuck drove them back by the shortest route to Brody's new home.
And so, Brody moved into his new apartment, and a little later, Zac and Brody went off the the gym for a session of weight training and swimming.
Brody settled in almost immediately.
Jim looked at Zac quizzically.
"That'll be Brody." Jim said.
"Ah !...Your 'boy-friend', Ethan.", Zac said.
Ethan, very sensibly, didn't rise to the bait, but very formally went to the entry 'phone, buzzed for Brody to come up, and then greeted him very politely at the door, and told him that Zac was waiting in the main living room.
 |
| Brody Arives |
Once seated in the study, Zac explained the situation.
"Now the 'Boss' is not going to offer you a penthouse, or anything like that, but it will be a neat, small fully furnished apartment in this building, which is close to the Club Jaguar, our gym and the California Combat Club."
Zac then paused, sizing up how to say the next part.
"Now I have to tell you this...but don't be offended.
The 'Boss doesn't wan't you 'hustling' any more.
He thinks it's too dangerous, and he thinks now that you should have no financial problems that would incline you to do anything like that.
If it's just sex that you want, then we can always provide you with a partner of whatever sex you prefer.
Is that OK ?", Zac asked.
"That's fine.", Brody said, smiling.
"The apartment itself will be on the fourth floor - for security reasons - with a bedroom, living-room, bathroom, kitchen, and a fitness room.
Cleaning will be taken care of by one of the apartment block staff.
As you have seen from your contract, the minimal rent will be deducted straight from your monthly income, and services - like electricity, water, heating etc, will all be included.
So do you agree to all of that ?", Zac asked.
Brody nodded.
Zac then took an agreement from his desk, and got Brody to sign.
The concierge had already been contacted by one of Franklin's minions, and so signing for the apartment, and obtaining the keys was no problem.
"If ever you have a problem with the keys - like losing them or some shit - just check in with the concierge, show him your identity and he'll give you a new set.
And remember the 'keys' are electronic - so the lock will have been reset as soon as the loss was reported - so if you find the old set...well they won't work.", Zac explained.
Brody pocketed the keys, and then Zac took him up to the apartment on the fourth floor to check the inventory.
As they entered, Brody, as one would expect, was amazed by the luxurious apartment.
 |
| Brody's Apartment - TV and Living Room |
The first room that they checked was a small TV and living room.
Fortunately it had been decorated in a very masculine style - all blacks, white and grey.
Brody wandered around, gazing, and felt the walls.
"Are these real marble ?", he questioned, obviously amazed.
"Yep !", Zac replied.
"Walls and floors.
Everything in this place is real.", Zac replied, as he also felt the smooth coolness of the marble veneers.
"Ideal for a warm place like Vegas." Zac commented.
"So where did you live before ?", Brody asked, casually.
Now that was a difficult question for Zac to answer.
"Oh, a long way from here.
You probably never heard of it, but it was warm - like here.", Zac replied, avoiding a straight answer.
 |
| Brody's Apartment - Bedroom |
"No...just make sure that the main items of furniture are here.
All the other stuff - knives forks, towels bedlinen and so forth is just 'gratis'.", Zac replied.
The second room that they checked was the Bedroom.
Brody was surprised, but privately pleased to see that the very modern looking bedroom contained a double bed.
Opposite the bed there was a complete wall of mirror fronted wardrobes.
 |
| Brody's Apartment Shower and Bathroom |
Again, the floor and the walls were sheathed in marble - dark grey for the walls and pale grey for the floors.
Brody looked around, noticing how clean and new everything looked.
"Who lived here before me ?", he asked, intrigued.
"No one...", Zac replied.
"Almost the whole apartment block is empty....
The 'Boss', as you may have gathered, has little need of rents, and only likes people he knows living in his top class properties", Zac explained.
"But fuck...this place must be worth a fortune !", Brody exclaimed.
"It is !", Zac said, stating the obvious.
 |
| Main Living Room and Kitchen |
"This serves as the main living room, but it also has a small kitchen attached - not that I would imagine that you'd be doing much cooking.
There's another nice flat screen TV, and also a balcony where you can exercise, and sit in the sun.
There's a few framed pictures here that haven't been hung.
If you don't care for them, just give them to the concierge.
They are on the inventory - as they're expensive - so don't just throw them out.", Zac warned.
This room's not very private, but you have the small TV and living room for more 'private' occasions.", Zac said, smiling. (see above).
 |
| Brody's Apartment - Weight Room |
"Shit ! That's really amazing !", Brody exclaimed, as he looked around the beautifully equipped room.
"There is an adjustable bench on the way to complete the main 'stack machine', but you can start using the pulleys, dumbbells and the exercise bike as soon as you like.
There is one condition, however, relating to this....", Zac continued.
"Which is ?", Brody questioned.
"Which is that the boys, Jim, Josh and Ethan can, under your supervision, use this equipment on occasions.", Zac said.
"Well of course...", Brody said, sounding relieved.
Brody went over to the dumbbell rack, and almost caressed the cold steel.
He looked very emotional.
"I really can't believe that all this is happening.
You know, Zac...the day you and I started talking was probably one of the luckiest days of my life."
"Well, perhaps you won't feel quite so lucky after your first match...", Zac suggested.
"Yes...but that's all part of the 'game' - and you just have to take what comes...", Brody replied.
Zac, however, was not so sure.
"So, after we've been to the gym, and had a swim, are you planning to move in ?", Zac asked casually.
"Not really...", Brody said, somewhat shyly.
"Well the 'Boss' doesn't want you hanging about that sleazy area where you live now any longer than necessary." Zac said, going back to his more businesslike manner.
"Is there a problem...?", Zac then asked.
"Yes, but I don't like to say.....It's money.", Brody admitted.
"Like in what way ?", Zac asked.
"Well - I'm behind in the rent, and I have no way to bring my stuff except in a taxi - which I can't afford.", Brody explained, obviously embarrassed.
"OK...that can be easily solved.
First, there's a garage under the apartment block, and Chuck's got a few trucks down there - different sizes - so he can easily bring your stuff.
On the way, we can stop off at the Club Jaguar, and get Franklin to give you an advance on your pay.
So.... where do we find the guy you rent from ?", Zac continued.
"He lives in the same building - that's part of the problem. ", Brody explained.
"OK, we'll take Jim, Josh and Ethan with us - then he'll be no problem.", Zac said with a grin.
"So, lets go to the concierge.
From there I'll 'phone the boys to come down, and the concierge can get Chuck to bring a truck round.", Zac said, obviously enjoying a bit of action.
 |
| Chevy Truck |
Zac was quickly able to explain the situation, and the 'boys' were all keen to see a bit more of the town.
In next to no time, with everyone aboard, they were off the the Club Jaguar.
While the 'boys' waited in the truck, Zac and Brody went to see Franklin.
Franklin ha already been warned by the 'Boss' that there might be requests for pre-payments of salary - the 'Boss' was no fool' - so there was no problem, and one of Franklin's equally 'geeky' assistants was soon counting out crisp dollar bills.
Brody, still amazed at the slick way that everything was being handled, then returned to the waiting truck with Zac.
 |
| Brody's Old Apartment |
Brody's one room apartment was situated in a run down building - obviously an example of 'Public Housing' that had been sold off, at some stage, to a private owner to be let out as private apartments.
The owner of the property to whom Brody owed rent was unwashed, unshaven and smelled strongly of drink.
Zac dealt with him quite roughly, demanding access to Brody's apartment, which was on the third floor, (the apartment without the air-conditioning unit), after the payment of the rent due had been made - in cash.
As the 'boy's helped Brody with his clothes and other possessions, Zac handed over the keys, and required a fully detailed receipt on behalf of Brody.
The owner of the apartment house looked far from happy, but being completely outnumbered, made to objections.
Once everything had been loaded onto the truck, Chuck drove them back by the shortest route to Brody's new home.
And so, Brody moved into his new apartment, and a little later, Zac and Brody went off the the gym for a session of weight training and swimming.
Meanwhile, preparations were under way for the the dinner to which the 'Boss' had been invited.
What everybody had forgotten - or rather didn't realize - was that this was a 'formal' occasion.
The boys had no idea of what a 'formal occasion' was - but the 'Boss' had, in fact, been invited to a 'dinner party'.
 |
| Clare |
Fortunately, the 'Boss', wanting to ensure that no one was embarrassed, had phone'd Clare, and advised here of the situation.
The 'Boss' had arranged an account at a very 'up market' mens' clothes establishment, and had suggested that Clare took the 'boys', and introduced them to to the mysteries of formal evening wear.
And so, a mere day before the 'long expected party' (Tolkein - yes, he exists in this 'world'), Clare bundled the boys (and herself), into a huge stretch limousine and, despite the 'boys' complaints that they already had too many clothes, they were whisked off to be kitted out for the upcoming 'soirée' (and Ethan still didn't know what the word meant).
The evening dress was not really much of a problem.
Clare knew that the 'Boss' would not favour anything outlandish - although in this 'America' there was a tendency for some men to favour rather 'colourful' evening dress.
In consideration of the climate it was decided that white dinner jackets (although some would argue that they are unfashionable) would in this case be ideal, rather in the style of 'Rick' in 'Cassablanca' - but updated for the decidedly slimmer 'boys'.
The only real problem was Ethan and his bow-tie.
Clip-on or pre-tied bows are simply not acceptable, and so Ethan needed Clare to give him the finishing touches to his ensemble.
Unfortunately, Ethan had seen 'Casablanca' on the penthouse home cinema - and so he got into a fantasy of being Rick, and wandering around saying.... 'Here's looking at you, kid." - which rather confused Brody.
And would Clare be present at the 'dinner party' ? - well unfortunately no - as there would be things to discuss to which Clare was decidedly not privy.
And so they sat waiting nervously, as the caterers made ready the 'never before used' dining room.
Then, finally....the door buzzer sounded.
Ethan rushed over to answer.
And it was Faunus....... but with him was the 'Boss'.
Moments later the doors opened, and their two guests entered.
Jim, as the leader of the group, stepped forward and warmly greeted the 'Boss' who looked genuinely please to see the 'boys'.
Zac, Josh and then finally Ethan came forward in turn.
Jim then took them all out onto the deck, where Glaux was waiting to greet Faunus, and meanwhile the hired waiters served drinks - non alcoholic for the 'boys' and a 'JD' for the 'Boss'.
The night was warm, and the sky glittering with stars.
If it wasn't for the faint sound of traffic, they could all be in a far distant place, and a far distant time.
Oddly, most of the initial conversation was about Brody, - and how he had been so pleased about his new apartment, and how they had helped him move from his nasty little apartment on the 'rough' side of town, and how surprised, and shocked they had all been at the appalling conditions in which some people in Vegas were forced to live.
The 'Boss' made it very clear that all of the properties that he owned were maintained at the highest standards, and he always charged fair rents - and it was interesting to note how concerned he was to ensure that the 'boys' thought well of him in this particular area.
Jim realized, however, that Brody was by no means their main concern, and suggested that they made their way to the dining room, where he hoped that they might be able, at the conclusion of the meal, to discuss some more serious matters.
Most of the conversation during the meal was, not surprisingly, about the food.
Although the 'Boss' was no gourmand, and no chef, he had owned restaurants for a sufficient number of years to be able to recognise a properly cooked meal.
Of course, restaurants, like the hotels and the casinos, were not his real business or interest - but were simply a means of making money.
"You see boys, while I can appreciate a meal like this...", he explained, "my real business interests lie elsewhere."
"Can you explain, Sir ?", Jim asked.
"Of course.... It all began when I met this guy, (he indicated Faunus), masquerading as a Mayan peasant.
It took a long while before I realized who he really was - and who I was, for that matter.
Then, he was able to assist me - and it was very much to my advantage.
He was able to 'acquire' for me all kinds of Mesoamerican artefacts...."
"Mesoamerican whats ?", Ethan interrupted in his own inimitable way.
"I mean pieces of art, jewellery, sculpture, reliefs and such like of the Olmec, Mayan, Toltec (see below), and Aztec periods, which I could legitimately say I had excavated - being in that part of the world at the time."
"These items I was able to sell to museums and dealers for enormous sums, and as such they were the foundation of my later finances.", the 'Boss' explained.
"Ah...very clever !......
And so why can't Faunus get me some of these arty...thingys ?", Ethan asked.
"Perhaps I can....if you ask nicely.", Faunus replied, smiling broadly.
"So how does Faunus do this ?", Josh asked, more seriously.
"I don't really know.", the 'Boss' replied, oddly at a loss for words.
"Well, in this world you call it 'teleportation'.", Faunus began.
"Do I ?", Ethan said grinning.
"Now enough of the clowning Ethan - we need to take this seriously.", the 'Boss' said gently.
"You have here, a rather foolish television drama called 'Star Trek', where they supposedly use what they call a 'transporter'.", Faunus began.
"The idea is clever, as it saves a lot of problems for the writers and directors of the programmes, but the truth of real 'teleportation' relates to aspects of your 'so called' science, which relates to quantum physics."
"Well now you've lost me.", Zac said.
"Well I'm not surprised, but I think that you've all seen it in action."....
And with that Faunus promptly faded away.
"Oh, I wish he wouldn't do that.", Josh said,
"Yes.....that's what he did, but in reverse, when I first met him.
Very frightening it was then, and I don't think I've ever been the same since.", Ethan commented.
And just to make the point really strongly, Faunus then came through the double doors of the dining room, carrying Glaux on his forearm, and resumed his place at the table.
"As you can see, it can be done without what is called 'hardware', as it's just a matter of altering perceptual vibrations.", Faunus said, as if stating the obvious.
"You know, Faunus, one day you're going to get stuck halfway, and end up permanently semi-transparent.", Ethan said.
"Well, OK...so now we know a little bit about how you made your money," Jim said - speaking to the 'Boss', "but how and why did you come to be here ?"
"Faunus has already answered part of your question, not that his answer was much help.
It's this business of what he described as 'teleportation'.
That's apparently how I got here - and also how all of you got here.", the 'Boss' explained.
"But, 'Boss', if I may interrupt,", Faunus said, "You mustn't think of 'teleportation' as some sort of 'travelling' through space or time.
A true understanding, even by the primitive science of this world, will indicate that space and time are illusions, created by 'conciousness', so nothing really 'moves' or 'travels'.
But enough....
For you all, you felt that you had 'arrived' in a certain 'place', and at a certain 'time'.
Now as for the 'Boss', his time in his previous life had come to and end, and he knew that.
By the beliefs of that 'time' he had received 'prophecies' of his approaching end in that world, and had come to accept the inevitably of that fact.
When his end finally came it was at the hands of his 'Tribune', Servius, in and argument over his natural son, Demetrios."
The spacious dining room, with it's single decoration of a pale Greek classical sculpture, suddenly became deathly quiet.
"I remember...", Ethan said, his voice trembling with emotion.
"I've been trying not to remember it ever since I became concious that I was here.
Ethan paused and dropped his dessert spoon on the table.
"There was a storm.... I saw him ! - In his study - there was blood !...Blood !..", Ethan said, almost as if he was reliving the event.
"Yes Ethan - but now the 'Dominus' is here, still young, alive and well.", Faunus said.
"Yes.....of course.....sorry.",Ethan said, worried that he'd made a fool of himself.
"Don't worry, Ethan.....
I can remember it also - not that I want to.", Jim said, and the others nodded in agreement.
The 'Boss' said nothing, but was moved by the emotions that his 'boys' were showing.
So the 'Boss' needed to be somewhere safe, where I could gradually adjust him to his new situation, so I planted him in the expedition in Mexico, ensuring that all the expedition members believed that he was a 'bona fide' member of the group from Harvard.
Of course, very clever people are also often very gullible, and it was easy to bend their minds to the 'alternative reality' that I gave them.
And.....as I explained earlier, I helped the 'Boss' to become very rich, and he made a life for himself here - but was always waiting for his 'boys' to return.", Faunus concluded.
"And what happened to the boy Demetrios ?", Josh asked.
"Demetrios eventually inherited what had been his father's, and what had passed to Jim.
Perhaps one day your paths may cross again - who knows ?", Faunus replied, enigmatically.
"Who knows...", Ethan mimicked.
"You do...I bet."
Faunus glanced at Ethan.
"Perhaps.", Faunus said, possibly a little annoyed.
"That, Faunus, is very interesting and helpful.
For some time since my arrival, I have had dreams of a cave, and a scroll, inscribed in some strange language, and a stormy night, and I think all of those images probably relate to what you have been telling us.", Jim said, looking very serious.
"Almost certainly.", Faunus replied.
"The scroll was the prophecy of the Cumaean Sibyl - a very dangerous document !".
Ethan looked to Josh, questioningly.
"Don't even ask.", Josh said.
"The cave, was the cave of the 'Sibyl', and the storm occurred on the night that the 'Boss' was murdered.", Faunus concluded.
"And Sir, may I ask..", Jim said, "Do you remember much of this ?".
"Some, Jim.", the 'Boss' replied.
"I have had a long time in which to think of these things, and a long time here with Faunus."
"And you believe that we all had this strange previous life - so long ago ?", Zac asked, getting to the crux of the matter.
"Undoubtedly yes, Zac.", the 'Boss' replied, quite unequivocally.
"And while Faunus can tell us something of how this strange situation arose, even he seems unable to explain why it has arisen.", the 'Boss' continued.
"And there's something else that has been troubling us", Jim interjected, looking to Faunus.
"Now that we know the circumstances surrounding the 'Boss', and how he came to be here, there's still the matter of our situation - after all, as far as we can remember it was only the 'Boss' who died in violent circumstances.", Jim continued.
"Well, I suppose that it is reasonable to let you know now a little more of what happened.", Faunus conceded.
To set the scene, you should be reminded that the amphitheatre in Pompeii had been reopened by the Roman authorities.
Jim, who was the inheritor of the title of 'Dominus of the House of Gracchus', had then bought the amphitheatre, and was in the process of having it refurbished, and an inaugural 'Games' staged there.
Zac and Ethan were at the amphitheatre, supervising the preparations.
It was a fine Summer day on 24 August 79 AD - according to how they measure time here - and it was the day that Vesuvius erupted.
Zac and Ethan would have undoubtedly been killed, along with all the other inhabitants of the city - but were removed, and brought here.", Faunus explained.
Zac and Ethan looked at one another - very seriously.
"And is that why we were here first ?", Zac asked.
"Yes....", Faunus replied, hesitantly.
"You're not telling us the full story....are you ?", Jim queried.
"Well, there is more.", Faunus admitted.
"The ash from the eruption fell all over the area of the Bay of Neapolis, so back in Baiae, Jim quickly learned of what had happened.
Jim was already depressed by the death of Vespasian, which had occurred earlier in the year, and the eruption of Vesuvius, and the loss of his beloved friends tipped him over the edge, and he resolved to kill himself - and allow Demetrius to inherit - not that the boy was really fit to take over such a responsibility.
So, it was left to me to remove Jim from the situation.
Subsequently, with Jim gone, Josh saw no reason to continue his life as a slave of Demetrius, so he also resolved to kill himself.
And that's why Josh was the last to arrive here.", Faunus concluded.
There was a long silence.
The 'Boss' stood up, went to a side table and poured himself a large 'Jack Daniels'.
"Well....I think that's cleared the air a little, boys.", the 'Boss' said, obviously moved by what Faunus had been telling them. ".
"And that's it ?", Jim asked.
"The whole story."
Faunus also stood.
"Yes...that's it.
I didn't really want it to come out all at the same time, but there it is.", Faunus said.
"Well...... quite a story....", Josh said thoughtfully.
"Bit of a tragedy, if you ask me.", Ethan said.
"Not really.", the 'Boss' replied.
"At least we're all here....and we find ourselves, thanks to Faunus, in a good situation.", the 'Boss' suggested, looking benignly at his young hosts.
"So lets go and get a breath of fresh air, out on the deck.", the 'Boss' suggested, and with that they all followed him out into the main living room, and from there to the 'deck'.
As they left the confines of the penthouse, Glaux flapped his wings, and then took off, making a n elegant circuit of the building, before landing once again in Faunus' arm.
They stood, looking over the 'city-scape'.
"You know, Ethan, it could all have turned out so much worse - so we have a lot to be grateful for.", the 'Boss' said quietly.
"Yes, I suppose so, Sir.", Ethan said - but sadly.
"Well, there's one thing that you can look forward to....", the 'Boss' continued.
"Tomorrow we're going to the California Combat Club to see Brody having a practice fight.
Now that will be a bit like things in the old days - watching a fighter training.", the 'Boss' said.
"True !", Ethan said, brightening up a little.
The hired waiters served coffee, as the 'boys', the 'Boss' and Faunus all seated themselves.
There was little conversation, however.......
Everyone, except perhaps Faunus and Glaux, had too much to think about.
Eventually, sensing the atmosphere of subdued embarrassment, the 'Boss' got to his feet.
"Well gentlemen....I have to get all the way back to the Villa Jaguar, so I feel I should be leaving."
Jim also took to his feet.
"On behalf of all of us, I should like to thank you, and Faunus for joining us for this evening."
Of course, Jim had left out Glaux, who looked predictably peeved.
"Well I enjoyed it - though some of the matters that we discussed were a little difficult.", the 'Boss' replied.
"And can I remind you that you will be due at the California Combat Club - just after one - to see how Brody fares in his first training session in the ring ?", the "Boss' continued.
"Of course....we'll be there...", Zac confirmed.
And with that, the 'Boss' and Faunus left, and the Penthouse Gang all gave a very definite sigh of relief.
CHAPTER XIV
The evening dress was not really much of a problem.
Clare knew that the 'Boss' would not favour anything outlandish - although in this 'America' there was a tendency for some men to favour rather 'colourful' evening dress.
 |
| Ethan as 'Rick' in 'Casablanca ' |
The only real problem was Ethan and his bow-tie.
Clip-on or pre-tied bows are simply not acceptable, and so Ethan needed Clare to give him the finishing touches to his ensemble.
Unfortunately, Ethan had seen 'Casablanca' on the penthouse home cinema - and so he got into a fantasy of being Rick, and wandering around saying.... 'Here's looking at you, kid." - which rather confused Brody.
And would Clare be present at the 'dinner party' ? - well unfortunately no - as there would be things to discuss to which Clare was decidedly not privy.
And so they sat waiting nervously, as the caterers made ready the 'never before used' dining room.
Then, finally....the door buzzer sounded.
Ethan rushed over to answer.
And it was Faunus....... but with him was the 'Boss'.
Moments later the doors opened, and their two guests entered.
Jim, as the leader of the group, stepped forward and warmly greeted the 'Boss' who looked genuinely please to see the 'boys'.
Zac, Josh and then finally Ethan came forward in turn.
Jim then took them all out onto the deck, where Glaux was waiting to greet Faunus, and meanwhile the hired waiters served drinks - non alcoholic for the 'boys' and a 'JD' for the 'Boss'.
The night was warm, and the sky glittering with stars.
If it wasn't for the faint sound of traffic, they could all be in a far distant place, and a far distant time.
Oddly, most of the initial conversation was about Brody, - and how he had been so pleased about his new apartment, and how they had helped him move from his nasty little apartment on the 'rough' side of town, and how surprised, and shocked they had all been at the appalling conditions in which some people in Vegas were forced to live.
The 'Boss' made it very clear that all of the properties that he owned were maintained at the highest standards, and he always charged fair rents - and it was interesting to note how concerned he was to ensure that the 'boys' thought well of him in this particular area.
Jim realized, however, that Brody was by no means their main concern, and suggested that they made their way to the dining room, where he hoped that they might be able, at the conclusion of the meal, to discuss some more serious matters.
Most of the conversation during the meal was, not surprisingly, about the food.
Although the 'Boss' was no gourmand, and no chef, he had owned restaurants for a sufficient number of years to be able to recognise a properly cooked meal.
Of course, restaurants, like the hotels and the casinos, were not his real business or interest - but were simply a means of making money.
 |
| Faunus |
"Can you explain, Sir ?", Jim asked.
"Of course.... It all began when I met this guy, (he indicated Faunus), masquerading as a Mayan peasant.
It took a long while before I realized who he really was - and who I was, for that matter.
Then, he was able to assist me - and it was very much to my advantage.
He was able to 'acquire' for me all kinds of Mesoamerican artefacts...."
"Mesoamerican whats ?", Ethan interrupted in his own inimitable way.
"I mean pieces of art, jewellery, sculpture, reliefs and such like of the Olmec, Mayan, Toltec (see below), and Aztec periods, which I could legitimately say I had excavated - being in that part of the world at the time."
The Toltec civilization flourished in central Mexico between the 10th and mid-12th centuries CE. Continuing the Mesoamerican heritage left to them by the earlier Olmec, Teotihuacano, Maya and others, the Toltecs would build an impressive capital at Tollan and, ultimately, pass on that heritage to later civilizations such as the Aztecs,
 |
| Mayan Art - Gold Calendar |
"Ah...very clever !......
And so why can't Faunus get me some of these arty...thingys ?", Ethan asked.
"Perhaps I can....if you ask nicely.", Faunus replied, smiling broadly.
"So how does Faunus do this ?", Josh asked, more seriously.
"I don't really know.", the 'Boss' replied, oddly at a loss for words.
"Well, in this world you call it 'teleportation'.", Faunus began.
"Do I ?", Ethan said grinning.
"Now enough of the clowning Ethan - we need to take this seriously.", the 'Boss' said gently.
 |
| Star Trek Transporter |
"The idea is clever, as it saves a lot of problems for the writers and directors of the programmes, but the truth of real 'teleportation' relates to aspects of your 'so called' science, which relates to quantum physics."
"Well now you've lost me.", Zac said.
"Well I'm not surprised, but I think that you've all seen it in action."....
And with that Faunus promptly faded away.
 |
| Faunus - In the Beginning |
"Yes.....that's what he did, but in reverse, when I first met him.
Very frightening it was then, and I don't think I've ever been the same since.", Ethan commented.
And just to make the point really strongly, Faunus then came through the double doors of the dining room, carrying Glaux on his forearm, and resumed his place at the table.
"As you can see, it can be done without what is called 'hardware', as it's just a matter of altering perceptual vibrations.", Faunus said, as if stating the obvious.
"You know, Faunus, one day you're going to get stuck halfway, and end up permanently semi-transparent.", Ethan said.
"Faunus has already answered part of your question, not that his answer was much help.
It's this business of what he described as 'teleportation'.
That's apparently how I got here - and also how all of you got here.", the 'Boss' explained.
"But, 'Boss', if I may interrupt,", Faunus said, "You mustn't think of 'teleportation' as some sort of 'travelling' through space or time.
A true understanding, even by the primitive science of this world, will indicate that space and time are illusions, created by 'conciousness', so nothing really 'moves' or 'travels'.
But enough....
For you all, you felt that you had 'arrived' in a certain 'place', and at a certain 'time'.
Now as for the 'Boss', his time in his previous life had come to and end, and he knew that.
By the beliefs of that 'time' he had received 'prophecies' of his approaching end in that world, and had come to accept the inevitably of that fact.
When his end finally came it was at the hands of his 'Tribune', Servius, in and argument over his natural son, Demetrios."
The spacious dining room, with it's single decoration of a pale Greek classical sculpture, suddenly became deathly quiet.
 |
| Stormy Night |
"I've been trying not to remember it ever since I became concious that I was here.
Ethan paused and dropped his dessert spoon on the table.
"There was a storm.... I saw him ! - In his study - there was blood !...Blood !..", Ethan said, almost as if he was reliving the event.
"Yes Ethan - but now the 'Dominus' is here, still young, alive and well.", Faunus said.
"Yes.....of course.....sorry.",Ethan said, worried that he'd made a fool of himself.
"Don't worry, Ethan.....
I can remember it also - not that I want to.", Jim said, and the others nodded in agreement.
The 'Boss' said nothing, but was moved by the emotions that his 'boys' were showing.So the 'Boss' needed to be somewhere safe, where I could gradually adjust him to his new situation, so I planted him in the expedition in Mexico, ensuring that all the expedition members believed that he was a 'bona fide' member of the group from Harvard.
Of course, very clever people are also often very gullible, and it was easy to bend their minds to the 'alternative reality' that I gave them.
And.....as I explained earlier, I helped the 'Boss' to become very rich, and he made a life for himself here - but was always waiting for his 'boys' to return.", Faunus concluded.
"And what happened to the boy Demetrios ?", Josh asked.
"Demetrios eventually inherited what had been his father's, and what had passed to Jim.
Perhaps one day your paths may cross again - who knows ?", Faunus replied, enigmatically.
"Who knows...", Ethan mimicked.
"You do...I bet."
Faunus glanced at Ethan.
"Perhaps.", Faunus said, possibly a little annoyed.
"That, Faunus, is very interesting and helpful.
 |
| Prophecy of the Cumaean Sibyl |
 |
| Cave of the Cumaean Sibyl |
"Almost certainly.", Faunus replied.
"The scroll was the prophecy of the Cumaean Sibyl - a very dangerous document !".
Ethan looked to Josh, questioningly.
"Don't even ask.", Josh said.
"The cave, was the cave of the 'Sibyl', and the storm occurred on the night that the 'Boss' was murdered.", Faunus concluded.
"And Sir, may I ask..", Jim said, "Do you remember much of this ?".
"Some, Jim.", the 'Boss' replied.
"I have had a long time in which to think of these things, and a long time here with Faunus."
"And you believe that we all had this strange previous life - so long ago ?", Zac asked, getting to the crux of the matter.
"Undoubtedly yes, Zac.", the 'Boss' replied, quite unequivocally.
"And while Faunus can tell us something of how this strange situation arose, even he seems unable to explain why it has arisen.", the 'Boss' continued.
"And there's something else that has been troubling us", Jim interjected, looking to Faunus.
"Now that we know the circumstances surrounding the 'Boss', and how he came to be here, there's still the matter of our situation - after all, as far as we can remember it was only the 'Boss' who died in violent circumstances.", Jim continued.
"Well, I suppose that it is reasonable to let you know now a little more of what happened.", Faunus conceded.
 |
| Amphitheatre at Pompeii |
Jim, who was the inheritor of the title of 'Dominus of the House of Gracchus', had then bought the amphitheatre, and was in the process of having it refurbished, and an inaugural 'Games' staged there.
Zac and Ethan were at the amphitheatre, supervising the preparations.
 |
| Eruption of Vesuvius - 79 AD |
Zac and Ethan would have undoubtedly been killed, along with all the other inhabitants of the city - but were removed, and brought here.", Faunus explained.
Zac and Ethan looked at one another - very seriously.
"And is that why we were here first ?", Zac asked.
"Yes....", Faunus replied, hesitantly.
"You're not telling us the full story....are you ?", Jim queried.
"Well, there is more.", Faunus admitted.
 |
| Bay of Neapolis |
 |
| Emperor Vespasain |
Jim was already depressed by the death of Vespasian, which had occurred earlier in the year, and the eruption of Vesuvius, and the loss of his beloved friends tipped him over the edge, and he resolved to kill himself - and allow Demetrius to inherit - not that the boy was really fit to take over such a responsibility.
 |
| Demetrius |
Subsequently, with Jim gone, Josh saw no reason to continue his life as a slave of Demetrius, so he also resolved to kill himself.
And that's why Josh was the last to arrive here.", Faunus concluded.
There was a long silence.
The 'Boss' stood up, went to a side table and poured himself a large 'Jack Daniels'.
"Well....I think that's cleared the air a little, boys.", the 'Boss' said, obviously moved by what Faunus had been telling them. ".
"And that's it ?", Jim asked.
"The whole story."
Faunus also stood.
"Yes...that's it.
I didn't really want it to come out all at the same time, but there it is.", Faunus said.
"Well...... quite a story....", Josh said thoughtfully.
"Bit of a tragedy, if you ask me.", Ethan said.
"Not really.", the 'Boss' replied.
"At least we're all here....and we find ourselves, thanks to Faunus, in a good situation.", the 'Boss' suggested, looking benignly at his young hosts.
"So lets go and get a breath of fresh air, out on the deck.", the 'Boss' suggested, and with that they all followed him out into the main living room, and from there to the 'deck'.
As they left the confines of the penthouse, Glaux flapped his wings, and then took off, making a n elegant circuit of the building, before landing once again in Faunus' arm.
They stood, looking over the 'city-scape'.
"You know, Ethan, it could all have turned out so much worse - so we have a lot to be grateful for.", the 'Boss' said quietly.
"Yes, I suppose so, Sir.", Ethan said - but sadly.
"Well, there's one thing that you can look forward to....", the 'Boss' continued.
"Tomorrow we're going to the California Combat Club to see Brody having a practice fight.
Now that will be a bit like things in the old days - watching a fighter training.", the 'Boss' said.
"True !", Ethan said, brightening up a little.
The hired waiters served coffee, as the 'boys', the 'Boss' and Faunus all seated themselves.
There was little conversation, however.......
Everyone, except perhaps Faunus and Glaux, had too much to think about.
Eventually, sensing the atmosphere of subdued embarrassment, the 'Boss' got to his feet.
"Well gentlemen....I have to get all the way back to the Villa Jaguar, so I feel I should be leaving."
Jim also took to his feet.
"On behalf of all of us, I should like to thank you, and Faunus for joining us for this evening."
Of course, Jim had left out Glaux, who looked predictably peeved.
"Well I enjoyed it - though some of the matters that we discussed were a little difficult.", the 'Boss' replied.
"And can I remind you that you will be due at the California Combat Club - just after one - to see how Brody fares in his first training session in the ring ?", the "Boss' continued.
"Of course....we'll be there...", Zac confirmed.
And with that, the 'Boss' and Faunus left, and the Penthouse Gang all gave a very definite sigh of relief.
'The boys wake up to considerations of the previous night's revelations - but are soon distracted by their visit to the California Combat Club, where they witness Brody's first violent training session in the practice ring.'to find out more go to:
CHAPTER XIV
No comments:
Post a Comment