Recreation of the Colossus of #Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the #ancient world. https://t.co/2JXm0oJ1TS #Greece #history
Ancient writing on stone in the Bilqis Temple ruins in the Saba Valley. One of the most famous archaeological sites in Yemen, it was once the capital of the Kingdom of Saba (Sheba)
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The Celsus Library, one of the most important buildings of the Ancient City of Ephesus,...
One of the stranger ancient scripts one might come across, Ogham is also known as the 'Celtic Tree Alphabet'. Estimated to have been used from the fourth to the tenth century CE, it is believed to have...
Regarding the last post and most importantly regarding the ARYANS and SCYTHIAN. There has been a substantial finding by many scholars, who classify Scythians as a sub-family of Aryans. As these S…
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Explore Thunderwolf-Tsahizn Tseh.'s 476 photos on Flickr!
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Teddy passes on the 'alien' information to Tony, and then Chuck arrives to drive Ethan and Teddy, and Novius and Zac to Las Vegas for a meeting about the trip to Mexico. Two days later the whole group (including Clare) take the Boeing 'Dreamliner' from McCarran Airport to 'Villahermosa International Airport' in Mexico - where their Mexican adventure begins. 'Villa Athena' - California The big black limo eventually drew up outside the main pavilion of the 'Villa Athena'. While a group of Mexican servants ran to open the doors, and take what turned out to be the non-existent luggage, Zac, Ethan and Teddy stepped from the gleaming Cadillac to be greeted by the patrician figure of Novius who was waiting to greet them on the steps. "My dear Petronius - so good to see you - and Aurarius, and Teddy...", Novius said in greeting as he guided them into the cool interior of the main pavilion. (remember - Novius always refers to Jim, Zac, Ethan and Josh by their original Latin names) "So - a good journey, I trust ?", Novius began, as he ordered the Mexican servant to bring refreshments for his guests. Novius' Study"Well, Novius, it was a long journey - especially as part of it was by air - but we've already 'phoned Chuck to come and take us back to 'Vegas. "Yes - such a short visit - and not much time for Aurarius and the young cats... but come, and sit down ", Novius replied, as he took everyone into the study. "So how are you, Novius - you look well...", Ethan said. "Oh yes - the air, and good weather here suit me very well.", Novius said as the servants brought in coffee. "And Mr Stark - is he here - still working on that sarcophagus ?', Zac asked. "Oh yes - in fact, if I understand things right, that is why you - or at least Teddy - are here.", Novius replied. "Yes, and to see you - to see that you are OK.", Ethan said. "Well that's nice - and Marcus contacted me about this meeting that we're having tonight in Las Vegas, and as we'll then be off to Mexico soon afterwards, I am 'all packed' - and if it's alright with you, I'll join you when you go back, after Teddy has delivered his information to Mr Stark - that is if we'll all fit in the 'limo'." Novius explained. "Good - and the limo will be no problem as Chuck is bringing us an extra large 'Lincoln' pullman.", Ethan said expansively.. Having finished their coffee, Novius took Ethan and Teddy to the pavilion that Tony Stark had been using for his accommodation, and as a workshop, along with Ashraf. The pavilion that Stark and Ashraf were using was only a short walk away. Tony had already been told of the arrival of the 'boys' and Teddy, and so he and Ashraf were prepared for their visit. Tony at the 'Villa Athena'"Hi guys ! How's it goin' ?", Tony began - not even looking up from his numerous computer screens. "We're good, man - good !... How about you, dude - and Ashraf ?" Ethan replied - lapsing into the rather strange manner of Tony's speech. "..'wish we could say the same, guys...", Tony replied despondently. "You see it's all very well Ashraf deciphering all these hieroglyphics - but they are not getting us any further forward." "Mm - 'problemo'..", Ethan muttered. Tony nodded in agreement. "It's not that there's any problem as such with Ashraf's translations - far from it. They have been independently checked... and much to the surprise of the 'experts', they are so accurate that they are opening up new insights into Ancient Egyptian religious practices and beliefs - but that's no help to us.", Tony said. "And these 'experts' - you've not told them where these inscriptions come from ?", Ethan asked - a little alarmed. "No, of course not - our secret's completely safe - don't worry, dude.", Tony replied reassuringly. "Good, so how do we transfer this data that Teddy's got ?", Ethan asked. "That's easy - we just interface with Teddy using a 'USB' cable.". Tony replied. for those of our readers who may not be 'computer-literate', USB stands for 'Universal Serial Bus', which is an 'industry standard' that establishes specifications for cables, connectors and protocols for connection, communication and power supply (interfacing) between computers, peripherals (Teddy) and other computers. So Ashraf 'plugged Teddy in', and the process, which only took a few minute, began. Teddy then had a word with Tony while the transfer took place... "You see - if I may say Mr Stark - you have been concentrating too much on the gold hieroglyphic inscriptions on the outer lapis lazuli casing of the 'sarcophagus' - which, of course, is not really a 'sarcophagus'. Our 'alien', however, informed us that the gold and lapis casing was added to the device by Egyptians after the 'other aliens' - who had left it behind in Armant - had departed for 'destinations unknown'. 'Armant Sarcophagus' Control DialThose inscriptions, therefore, are not 'alien', and can only, in a most tenuous manner, reveal the secrets of the internal mechanism. Equally, the gold control dial, while being a representation of the 'Dendera Zodiac', is simply a decorative device, placed over the original 'alien' control dial - so it needs to be removed.", Teddy explained - and at that point Tony's computer system, with lots of flashing blue diodes, indicated that the download was complete. "That's amazing, Teddy ! And what else can you tell us ?", Tony enthused. "Nothing - all the really important information that you need is in the download.", Teddy said. "Oh...", Tony responded. "And what language is that 'important information' in - ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics ?", Tony asked hopefully - presuming that Ashraf would be able to perform a successful translation. Jaguar in Chiapas"It's in some 'alien' language - and no, at first glance I can't translate it.", Teddy said. "So, we're back to 'square one'.", Tony said. "Seems so - but we have to go to Mexico now, so if you haven't worked it out by the time we get back, I'll come and give you a hand.", Teddy said. "OK - and why not take Ashraf with you - if Jim agrees - as he will have nothing to do here if we're finished with the Egyptian bit.", Tony suggested to Ethan. "OK - I'll 'phone Jim and let you know...", Ethan said, as he shook hands with Tony. "And you and Teddy be careful in Mexico - remember what happened to the 'Boss'...", Tony added, as they left Tony's workshop. "Well that didn't go too well...", Ethan said as they made their way back to the main pavilion. Lincoln Continental PullmanAnd almost as soon as they arrived back at Novius' study, Chuck arrived with the 'Lincoln Continental Pullman'. "So how did you get here so quickly ? - we only 'phoned Jim a short time ago.", Ethan asked Chuck. "Well, Sir - I wondered about you going by air - which seemed a long way round, as the airport's quite a distance from the 'Villa Athena' - so I though it might be a good idea to set out straight away in order to bring you back - otherwise you'd probably not get back in time for the meeting.", Chuck replied with a grin. "Good thinking, Chuck - and now we need to get Novius and Ashraf packed, as we don't want to keep driving back and forwards in order to pick everyone up - but as we've got the 'Pullman', there should be plenty of room for all of us.", Ethan said. It didn't take long for Ashraf and Novius to get packed and ready, and after Ethan had given the kittens a fond farewell, Chuck started off on the way to La Vegas - which in the end took far less time that the combined flying and limo journey that they had made earlier in the day. Kukulkan - The Mayan Plumed SerpentOnce they were on their way, Ethan decided to quiz Nathan about the Mexican history. "So tell me, Nathan - what do you know about the Maya ?", Ethan asked. "Well, to be honest, very little - and the little that I do know was told to me by Gracchus - or the 'Boss' as he was later known, and Faunus.", Novius said.... "But maybe Teddy could tell you something." Teddy shook his head. "It's not really my place - and the one who know most about all things Mexican is Faunus.", Teddy said. "Yes - but Faunus has done one of his 'disappearing acts'...", Ethan said. "Well perhaps he'll be at the meeting this evening..." Zac suggested. "Okey dokey - we'll just have to wait and see...", Ethan said. And so, much of the time during their drive back to Las Vegas was spent discussing the recent meeting with the 'aliens', and Tony's work on the 'sarcophagus' - which Ashraf was able to describe in detail. 'Welcome to Las Vegas'Eventually they arrived in the suburbs of Las Vegas - and the passed the well known illuminated sign greeting them to the city. "So here we are again !...", Ethan said - although it was a hardly needed comment. The 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign is a Las Vegas landmark funded in May 1959 and erected soon after by 'Western Neon'. The sign was designed by Betty Willis at the request of Ted Rogich, a local salesman, who sold it to Clark County, Nevada. The sign is located in the median at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South, north of the historic stone pillars of the old 'McCarran International Airport' on the east side, and across from the 'Bali Hai Golf Club' and the 'Klondike Hotel and Casino' on the west side. The sign, like most of the 'Strip', sits in 'Paradise', and is located roughly 4 miles south of the actual city limits of Las Vegas. Penthouse Building - Summerlin- Las Vegas Soon they were back in Summerlin, at the 'Penthouse Building'. Chuck reminded Novius and Ashraf that their cases would remain in the trunk of the Lincoln, as he was going to deliver them to the 'Club Athena' - where Novius and Ashraf would be staying before leaving for their trip to Mexico. Chuck also reminded them all that he would be returning a little later to take them to their evening meeting. The elevator speedily took them to top floor - where Jim was waiting for them at the doors to the 'Penthouse'. "Well - you made it in good time...", Jim began - sounding rather serious. "Yes... and that's all thanks to Chuck...", Zac said, as he made way for Novius. "So Marcus... You're looking well !", Novius said, as he warmly embraced Jim, as Ethan carried Teddy through the 'Penthouse' doors. "Hi Jim... You'll be pleased to know that Teddy delivered his message to Tony - and we've brought Ashraf back with us." Ethan said. "Good - well let's all have some tea, and then we'll get ready to go to our meeting... "Oh, and there's been a slight change. I've decided to hold the meeting at 'Caesars Palace', as I thought that Novius might like to see our newest acquisition.", Jim added. "So it's finally ours ?", Ethan asked. "Yes - with Franklin's help I eventually signed the papers - and authorized the name change to the 'Las Vegas Hotel Athena'...", Jim explained. "So Greek rather than Roman...", Novius said approvingly. Wisely, Clare did not make an appearance at this juncture, as she realized that, in their 'Greco-Roman' style, the boys - meaning Jim, Zac, Josh and Ethan - and also Novius - would not approve of her appearance at the meeting. 'Las Vegas Hotel Athena' - (ex 'Caesars Palace') - Reception Once they had time to drink their tea and briefly relax, Chuck reminded them that it was time to go... Mai Entrance - 'Hotel Athena' - ex 'Caesars Palace'And so they drove in the suitably grand 'Lincoln Continental Pullman' to the newly named 'Las Vegas Hotel Athena' - the ex 'Caesars Palace'. Unlike the previous time, when Ethan, Teddy and 'Sigi' had visited Caesars Palace, no one asked Ethan if he was 'looking for his parents' ! In fact, all the staff were behaving almost neurotically respectful and deferential towards the new 'owners', although it seemed that they were not sure exactly which individual was the actual owner. Most, however, presumed that it was Novius, as he was obviously the eldest. "Well at least it's not as bright as when I was here last - 'suppose it's because it's evening - but Jim you must do something about that swirly 'floor-mosaic-thingy' - and I think we need to have some sort of 'dress-code' here... some of these people dress really weird.", Ethan said. Reception - Caesars Palace (Las Vegas Hotel Athena)Now while Ethan had been talking to Jim, Novius had been surrounded by numerous members of the senior hotel management, all eager to introduce themselves, and intent on explaining their duties and responsibilities to him - oblivious to the fact that not only was he not the hotel owner, but in addition he had little interest in, or knowledge of the business of running a hotel. Eventually Novius, who seemed to find the whole situation quite amusing, made it clear that he was not the new owner, and then proceeded to call Jim over. "May I introduce you to the new owner of 'Caesars Palace' - soon to be renamed the 'Las Vegas Hotel Athena' - Mr James Johnson.", Novius announced, in his most magisterial voice. There followed a series of variations of 'Pleased to meet you, Sir', from some very embarrassed senior executives. At that moment Zac arrived. "Ah.. you've arrived at the ideal time, Zac. These are some of the senior managers employed at this hotel...", Jim said, with a twinkle in his eye. "And this, gentlemen, is my 'Chief of Security' - not only of this hotel, but of the entire 'Athena Corporation' - Mr Zac Taylor - and he will be interviewing each of you once we return from our inspection of our assets in Mexico." And Zac simply nodded, rather than shake hands with any of the assembled employees working, (for the moment), at the 'Hotel Athena'. "So, Zac, is the Conference Room ready ?", Jim asked. Zac nodded. Elevators - Tower Building - Las Vegas Athena Hotel - Las Vegas"Good, so get a bellhop to take us there.." , Jim said. And so the 'boys', along with Novius, moved off to the elevators, guided by a very nervous young bellhop. "Another problem with this place is that you end up with a very long walk whenever you want to go anywhere...", Ethan moaned. Meanwhile the rather shocked senior staff were murmuring something to the effect of 'What's this with the teddy-bear ?'. Well, not surprisingly, the 'teddy-bear' was looking forward to playing with the elevator buttons, and in a few moments they were whisked up to the top floor of the 'Tower Building'. "So what do you think of this Hotel ?", Jim asked Novius. "t's very large, and very ornate, and I could best describe it as 'quite Roman', with added electricity, Marcus - but far too brightly lit for a real Roman building - and a distinct lack of slaves.' Novius opined. Conference Room Zac then took them to the 'Executive Conference Room' in the 'Tower Building' - which was reserved for hotel management business - and from that meeting on - was reserved only for 'Athena Corporation' meetings attended by Jim and his associates. "Well this is nice - cosy - in a luxurious and classic way...", Ethan commented - as all the other interested parties, who had been requested to attend, rose from their seats as Jim, Novius and the others entered. "So have you checked for bugs, Teddy ?", Zac asked. "Yes Zac, it's clean.", Teddy replied Zac smiled and nodded. So, who was attending ? Well, nearly everyone. Jim, Ethan, Teddy, Novius, Zac and 'Sigi' - and then Josh (who had been spending a lot of time with Franklin), Max (who had been looking after the 'entertainment' side of things in 'Vegas), Ashraf - who had been helping Tony, and Brody - and last but definitely not least - Faunus ( and what he had been doing no one really knew). And so Jim went round the room, and greeted all those who had been waiting - and then took his seat at the top of the table. Jim then began the meeting.... "It is the purpose of this meeting to familiarize you all with certain parts of Mexico - why we are interested in this particular area, both from a financial and economic point of view, and also from a 'metaphysical' standpoint...", Jim began. Yale Universty At the mention of the word 'metaphysical' Ethan, Max and Brody began to look puzzled, but no one dared to interrupt - particularly as Jim seemed unusually serious. Meanwhile Teddy - who had been sat on the conference room table next to Jim, was furiously tapping away at his bright blue HP laptop, recording Jim's words for posterity. "Now the reason for our involvement in Mexico lies with the founder of the 'Athena Corporation', Mr. Alexander Johnston - 'the Boss' - long before any of us, with the exception of Faunus, was here in the USA. At that time, when the 'Boss' was studying at Yale, he joined an archaeological expedition to Central America. It was during that work that 'the Boss' , met Faunus, who at that time he knew as 'Don Picaro' - which is the name he will be known by during our trip to Mexico. The 'Boss' in Palenque Initially 'the Boss' thought that 'Don Picaro' was a native of the area, and actually a descendant of the Maya - but as we know now that is not the case. However, the purpose of the expedition was to excavate an archaeological site known as 'Palenque'. Now I am no expert on Mesoamerican history and culture, so at this point I shall ask Faunus - or 'Don Picaro' as we should now be calling him - to tell us something about the Maya...", Jim said, resuming his seat, and gesturing for Faunus to continue the exposition. And so Faunus began speaking... "Hi... Palenque - anciently known in the Itza language as 'Lakamha', was a Maya city state in southern Mexico. The Palenque ruins date from about 226 BC to about 799 AD. After its decline, it was overgrown by the jungle, but has since been excavated and restored to some extent. It is located in the Mexican state of Chiapas. Aerial View of the 'Temple of Inscriptions - Palenque Palenque contains some of the finest architecture, sculpture and bas-relief carvings that the Maya produced. Much of the history of Palenque has been reconstructed from reading the Mayan 'hieroglyphics' on the many monuments. The most famous ruler of Palenque was Pakal, whose tomb has been found and excavated in the 'Temple of the Inscriptions'. It is important to remember that it is estimated that less than 10% of the total area of the city has been explored, leaving more than a thousand structures still covered by jungle. But I'm sure that Teddy will have more to say about the famous 'Temple of Inscriptions' when we actually visit it, once we arrive in Palenque.", Faunus concluded. "And may I add something here ?", Novius asked. Jim nodded and gestured for Novius to speak. Lid of the Sarcophagus of 'Pakal' "Well some of you at this meeting are no doubt aware of the sarcophagus that we discovered in Egypt - and so you may be interested to know that sarcophagi have also been found in Central and Southern America - the most famous one being that of the Mayan ruler 'Pakal', that was discovered in the 'Temple of Inscriptions' at Palenque. Now Maya 'experts' say that the bas-relief depicts 'Pakal' descending into 'Xibalba', the Mayan underworld, but now - in 'popular culture' - the proposers of the 'Ancient Astronaut Theory' state the it depicts 'Pakal' ascending from the earth in a 'Space-ship' - the proverbial 'Rocket Man'... But I'm sure that Teddy will have more to say about the sarcophagus, and the tomb when we are in Palenque - however we will not be able to view the actual sarcophagus cover, but only a copy, now on display in the 'Museum of Palenque'." Faunus then rose to his feet to continue the meeting. "As I was explaining before, 'the Boss' went to Mexico, in the first instance, on an archaeological expedition. At that time 'the Boss' had very limited financial resources, but fortunately I was able to assist him in finding previously undiscovered Mayan sites, which he was able excavate with the help of local men that I recruited for him. Gold Mayan Figure Many of those sites proved to be rich in rare sculpture, and gold, silver, jade and obsidian artefacts, which I was able, on his behalf, to sell to wealthy collectors, and even museums - and these activities formed the foundation of the later wealth that 'the Boss' amassed. Once 'the Boss' had acquired substantial capital, I was then able to advise him to purchase tracts of seemingly useless, uninhabited land in the Mexican jungles, which I knew, in the future, would prove to contain rich seams of valuable minerals - and that there would come a time when 'the Boss' would have the financial resources to extract such wealth to his advantage.", Faunus explained. A number of those attending the meeting had obviously wondered about the origins of the financial power of the, by then, huge 'Athena Corporation' - and at that meeting many aspects of the rise of that remarkable business empire had become clear to them - but not entirely. FBI Headqaurters - Washington DC - USAMeanwhile, further East, on practically the same longitude, other minds were also considering the 'problem' - if it was that - of the origins and wealth of the 'Athena Corporation'. In a very secure office, in the large and very intimidating and classic building know as the 'Headquarters of the Federal Bureau of Investigation', a very nervous Department Chief was facing the 'Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation' - a gentleman by the name of J. Edgar Hoover. Now as this is an 'Alternative America', this 'J. Edgar Hoover' was not born in 1895 - as he maybe have been in the 'Universe' of our readers, but rather (under the sign of Capricorn), on 1st January 1, 1936 "So, I asked for a report on this James Johnston guy, and the 'Athena Corporation', and it finally arrives on my desk after nine weeks. So what's the problem ?" Hoover asked sounding quite dissatisfied - in fact quite annoyed. J Edgar Hoover - 'Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation' "I'm sorry, Mr Director, but there seems to be very little information about Mr James Johnston.", the Department Chief began. "But there must be a birth certificate, names of his parents, brothers and sisters and suchlike...", Hoover snapped back. "Well no, actually. The record of his birth has gone missing, but he was legally adopted by Alexander Johnston.", the Department Chief explained. Hoover had a mystery to offer as soon as he came into the world. He was born on New Year's Day in Washington, D.C., but his parents did not file a birth certificate for him. In fact, it wasn't filed until many years later when his mother Annie died. Their oversight or intentional deception has helped fuel speculation among some biographers that Hoover something to conceal regarding his origins - rather like Jim.... "Missing ! - how can the record of his birth go missing ? ", Hoover bellowed. "Well, maybe like all those tapes of the 'moon landings', and all those 'moon rocks' - and much else.", the Department Chief suggested. "Yes.... well we don't talk about that... but a birth certificate ?", Hoover asked, feigning incredulity. The Department Chief had no answer for Hoover's comment. "Well it does happen... more often than we'd like.", Hoover had to admit, well knowing that the Department could easily arrange for individuals to simply disappear from every conceivable record - if it was in the interests of the 'Bureau'. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States. The FBI is also a member of the U.S. Intelligence Community and reports to both the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence. A leading U.S. counter-terrorism, counterintelligence, and criminal investigative organization, the FBI has jurisdiction over violations of more than 200 categories of federal crimes. Unlike the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which has no law enforcement authority, and is focused on intelligence collection abroad, the FBI is primarily a domestic agency, maintaining 56 field offices in major cities throughout the United States. Despite its domestic focus, however, the FBI also maintains a significant international footprint, operating numerous U.S. embassies and consulates across the globe. - Note: J Edgar Hoover, (Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation), was a 33rd Degree Freemason. "And how old was Johnston when he was adopted by Alexander Johnston ?", Hoover asked. "Apparently when he was eighteen - although that was an estimate given by the judge, as the boy couldn't remember his year of birth - apparently he had been undergoing treatment for amnesia after a road accident.", Department Chief replied. "That's strange - to be adopted...as a teenager.... And do we know his original name - it should be on the adoption papers.", Hoover asked, getting increasingly tired of having to 'pump' this rather lack-lustre Department Chief for answers. "Only a first name... Marcus." Hoover looked puzzled. "That's odd... I wonder why the change ?", he mused. So while Hoover tried to decide what to do about Jim and the 'Athena Corporation', we can return to the meeting, in' Las Vegas Hotel Athena', about the trip to Mexico... Faunus had just spent some moments revealing - for the very first time for some of his listeners - the unusual circumstances in which 'the Boss' had acquired the wealth to 'kick-start' the vast financial empire, now known as the 'Athena Corporation', which on his untimely and mysterious death, he had bequeathed to Jim - and in part, to the other 'boys' - those being Ethan, Zac and Josh his considerable wealth. Faunus continued... "The history of Central and Southern America - 'Mesoamerica' - is very complex - far more so than that of the 'Old World' - and anyway you do not need to become particularly familiar with it." 'Well that's a relief...", Ethan muttered. Ignoring Ethan's comment, Faunus continued... Olmec 'Werejaguar'"The Olmecs were the earliest known major Mesoamerican civilization. Following a progressive development in Soconusco, they occupied the tropical lowlands of the modern-day Mexican states of Veracruz and Tabasco. The Olmecs flourished during Mesoamerica's formative period, dating roughly from as early as 1500 BCE to about 400 BCE. They were the first Mesoamerican civilization, and laid many of the foundations for the civilizations that followed, being the first to practice ritual bloodletting, and playing the Mesoamerican ballgame - hallmarks of nearly all subsequent Mesoamerican societies. The Olmec culture was first defined as an art style, and this continues to be a feature of the culture, and much Olmec art is naturalistic Other art expresses fantastic anthropomorphic creatures, often highly stylized, using images and designs of a religious meaning. The Olmec may have been the first civilization in the Western Hemisphere to develop a writing system." Toltec Sculptures - Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl - Tula - Mexico"The most important early Mesoamerican groups were the Toltecs and the Mexica - from which we get the modern name Mexico. The Toltecs immigrated into Mexico from the arid area of northwest, and built an extremely strong regional empire with the aid of their large, powerful army. Nevertheless, the conflicts that emerged during 1125 C.E. - coupled with a nomadic incursion from northwestern Mexico led to the destruction of the Toltec empire in 1175. The Toltecs were legendary sculptors and artists who left many impressive monuments and stone carvings behind. They were also ferocious warriors, dedicated to conquest and the spread of the cult of 'Quetzalcoatl', greatest of their gods. The Toltecs did not 'create' Quetzalcoatl, or his worship, as images of feathered serpents go back as far as the Olmecs, and the famous Temple of Quetzalcoatl at Teotihuacan predates the Toltec civilization, however, it was the Toltecs whose reverence for the god accounted for the proliferation his worship far and wide in Mesoamerica. There is a great deal of evidence that the Toltecs regularly practiced human sacrifice - including children - to appease their gods. However, we know very little about the Toltecs, as they appeared to have no written language." Xochipilli "The 'Mexica' were a Nahuatl-speaking indigenous people of the Valley of Mexico, and became the rulers of the Aztec Empire. They were the last Nahua-speaking immigrants to enter the 'Basin of Mexico' after the decline of the Toltecs. The 'Aztecs', or 'Mexica' revered the Toltecs, and the Aztec rulers claimed to be descended from the royal Toltec lines, As such, they adopted many aspects of Toltec culture, including the worship of Quetzalcoatl and the practice of human sacrifice. The term 'Aztec' today often refers exclusively to the Mexica people. Aztec Mosaic Snake"The Aztecs flourished in central Mexico in the post-classic period from 1300 to 1521. The Aztec peoples included different ethnic groups of central Mexico, particularly those groups who spoke the Nahuatl language and who dominated large parts of Mesoamerica from the 14th to the 16th centuries. The Aztec Empire was a confederation of three city-states established in 1427: Tenochtitlan, city-state of the Mexica, Texcoco; and Tlacopan. The Aztec Empire reached its maximal extent in 1519, just prior to the arrival of a small group of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés. Cortés, allied with city-states opposed to the Mexica. After the fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521, and the capture of the emperor Cuauhtémoc, the Spanish founded Mexico City on the ruins of Tenochtitlan. From there they proceeded with the process of conquest and incorporation of Mesoamerican peoples into the Spanish Empire." Quetzalcoatl"At this point I feel I should say something about the god 'Quetzalcoatl'..." Quetzalcoatl - the name, roughly translated, means 'Feathered Serpent', or 'Plumed Serpent', is the name of an important Mesoamerican deity who was worshiped throughout the region, in one form or another, for 1,200 years. The Maya also worshiped Quetzalcoatl under the name 'Kukulcan' The 'quetzal' is a brightly coloured bird, famed for its plumage, and 'coatl' refers to the snake. All the Mesoamerican groups built pyramids, but somewhat different to the pyramids found in Egypt. The Pyramid of the Sun - Teotihuacan - Mexico City - Mexico'Teotihuacan' was the capital of the Aztecs. The most famous of these pyramids - the 'Pyramid of the Sun' at 'Teotihuacan' - was believed by the Incas to have been originally built by the Toltecs, and lies at the end of the 'Avenue of the Dead'. Interestingly the city was known to the Aztecs as 'the place where men become gods'..." South American Llama"There is one other group that I have not mentioned, and that is the 'Inca'. The Inca Empire was strange - there was no use off the wheel, draft animals - except for Llamas - and no knowledge of iron or steel, or even a system of writing. The Empire functioned largely without money and without markets. Instead, exchange of goods and services was based on reciprocity between individuals and among individuals, groups, and Inca rulers. Taxes consisted of a labour obligation of a person to the Empire. The Inca rulers, who theoretically owned all the means of production, reciprocated by granting access to land and goods, and providing food and drink in celebratory feasts for their subjects. Many local forms of worship persisted in the empire, but the Inca leadership encouraged the worship of their sun god – and imposed its sovereignty above other cults. The Inca, however should not concern us as their Empire only occupied areas in South America." And there is, of course, the Maya. Maya Jaguar DancerThere are very close connections between the Toltecs, the Aztecs and the Maya - but only the Maya went on to produce a truly sophisticated civilization. The Maya live in Mexico and Central America, and like the Toltecs and the Aztecs, their rulers claim to be literally descended from the 'Jaguar Gods' from the stars... The ancient Mayan discoveries astounded archaeologists and researchers for decades, and it seems that more and more puzzling discoveries related to this ancient culture continue to be made. These were a people who were obsessed with astronomy and time, boasting a highly advanced calendar that is still accurate to this day. But were the Mayans 'gods' who imbued the ancient civilization with their advanced knowledge actually 'alien' ? - that we hope to maybe discover as a result of our trip to Mexico." "Well, I think that's enough about history for the moment.... 'Ciudad del Carmen'So now I'd like to ask Josh to say a few words about the situation in Mexico at the present, and give you some information about our involvement in Mexico for now, and in the future...", Jim said. Now Josh didn't usually contribute to meetings, but he had been working for some time with Franklin - at Jim's insistence - and so he had a good idea of what Jim, Franklin and Faunus had been planning for the future of the 'Athena Corporation' - particularly with regard to Mexico. And so Josh hesitantly began his 'report'... "Well, I'm no expert on such matters, but I can tell you that we are intending to open a large resort in a town called 'Ciudad del Carmen'. It is located on the coast - but there is also access to 'Palenque'... so it will offer a 'beach' holiday, as well as a bit of culture with the world famous Maya ruins at Palenque - and, of course, a look at the jungle... Further plans involve acquiring hotels in Mexico City - allowing for tours of the pyramids at Teotihuacan, which is only twenty-five miles from the modern city. Gulf Oil PlatformAnd we should remember that Mexico is the eighth most visited country in the world, with over 20 million tourists a year, with many of those tourists coming from the USA, The less glamorous side of all these plans is the development of the gold, silver and other mineral concessions in various areas of Mexico.", Josh explained. "And why are we so interested in Mexico in particular..?", 'Sigi' asked. "Well, to begin with it is close what we, at present, call 'home'. Also, thanks to the activities of 'the Boss' and Faunus, some years ago, we have substantial land holdings and mineral rights in the country. In addition, according to Franklin, Mexico is economically stable, with a strong banking system in which private banks are profitable and well-capitalized, and also there is low inflation and low interest rates, with a hard-working labour force, who accept low rates of pay - and all this is to our advantage. Surprisingly there is also a large electronics and computer sector, which Mr Stark is prepared to help us with. Jaguars at Palenque - Chiapas - MexicoAnd then there is oil - and Franklin is at present involved in negotiating with the Mexican Government with regard to the 'Athena Corporation', combined with 'Stark Industries', providing advanced technology to help the Mexican oil industry.", Josh concluded. "All very interesting - but don't expect me to take groups on guided tours of the jungles in Chiapas. After what happened to 'the Boss', I don't think that would be at all safe...", Ethan commented. "I agree, Ethan, but jaguars mainly hunt at night, and any groups touring the jungle would be attended by armed local guides.", Jim said. "Anyway - as you will have to go into the jungle, when we visit Palenque, just imagine any jaguars that you may meet as very big, spotted 'kitties', like Bastet and Sekhmet...", Teddy suggested, looking up from his laptop. While the meeting in 'Vegas was going well, things are not looking so good back in Washington DC. Hoover, having dismissed the Department Head tasked with providing a detailed file on James Johnston and the 'Athena Corporation', then called his secretary on the intercom. "Miss Gandy - ask Mr Tolson to see me right now !". Clyde Anderson Tolson was the Associate Director, and therefore the second-ranking official of the FBI. Tolson applied to the FBI and was hired as a Special Agent. Tolson reportedly indicated on his application that he wanted to use the job as a stepping stone to gain experience and earn enough money to open a law practice in Cedar Rapids. After working in the FBI's Boston and Washington, D.C., field offices, he became the chief FBI clerk, and was later promoted by Hoover to Assistant Director.Tolson arrived in Hoover's office. "So Clyde, we've got a 'problem' with this Johnston guy. J Edgar Hoover and Clyde Tolson - Washington DCIt seems things just don't add up,", Hoover began, throwing the file down on his desk. "In what way, Edgar ?", Tolson asked. "Well every way - if you ask me...", Hoover replied. Hoover then settled back, referred to his own notes, and began to explain matters to Tolson. "So, let's go through some of the main points.... We'll start at the beginning. 'Don Picaro'Many years ago this man - Alexander Johnston - appears in New York - but, many years later, he's impossible to trace - and now he's conveniently dead - and, incidentally, had one of the biggest funerals seen in 'Vegas for many a year, Anyway, when he first arrives in the US, he enrols at Yale to study anthropology - and somehow gets 'tapped' for the 'Skull and Bones'. Travels all round the South West pursuing this anthropology business, and then gets himself picked for a special research team to go to Mexico. While in Mexico, he meets up with a native Mexican boy, 'Don Picaro' - whom our Mexican contacts have been unable to trace, incidentally, and then comes back with the boy to Los Angeles." Hoover slid a small 'black and white' photo across his desk to Tolson. Hoover continued... FBI HQ - Washington DC - USA "Back in LA, Johnston begins dealing in ancient Mexican artefacts, which at the time are highly sought after. These things range from valuable trinkets, in various precious metals, to large sculptures - and various museums and private collectors are keen to buy this stuff. Although many of these deals are a little irregular, we don't 'make a move', partly because we don't want problems with the private collectors, many of whom are influential, and we leave the museums alone because they need many of the items for their collections - and then there's the 'Bones-men' - we can't 'ruffle their feathers'... 'Skull and Bones', also known as 'The Brotherhood of Death', is an undergraduate senior secret student society at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. The oldest senior class society at the university, 'Skull and Bones' has become a cultural institution known for its powerful 'alumni'. Members are known by nicknames, and many of the names chosen are drawn from literature, history and myth. Not surprisingly, Alexander Johnston chose 'Gracchus'... "So, to 'cut to the chase'... Johnston, on his return to Los Angeles started buying up real-estate in LA and 'Vegas.'..., Hoover paused for a moment. "Are you getting all this Clyde.", Hoover asked. Tolson had been assiduously taking shorthand in the notebook that he always carried. "Yes Mr Hoover - very interesting.", Tolson replied, careful, as always, to be very formal when addressing his boss in 'official' situations. Hoover smiled and continued... Paradise Park Hotel"Johnston bought top notch residential properties - mainly apartment blocks, hotels, restaurants, and in 'Vegas, inevitably, of course, casinos. He also took on some 'muscle' ... young men, mainly of Latino extraction, but not Puerto Ricans - rather guys of Italian descent. But he also collected a few younger boys - blond, European looking, in their late teens - 'street-boys', or maybe 'rent-boys'...", Hoover continued. "So was Alexander Johnston a 'flit' ?", Tolson asked. ('flit' is an American term used in the particular 'universe' of this story for the expression 'gay' - see 'Catcher in the Rye'). "No - not as far as our inquiries show... it appears that he didn't use these young men, or boys, for sex.", Hoover replied - sounding a little embarrassed... Helicopter over Wyoming"That's interesting...", Tolson remarked. Hoover continued... ignoring Tolson's remark. "Now one of the blonde boys was later known as James Johnston - also nick-named as 'Jaguar Jim', who has been in our sights for some time - as a result of some referrals from the CIA - particularly with regard to helicopter flights over Wyoming. It seems that when our agents went to interview the helicopter pilot, 'Bob' White - ex CIA - to see what had been going on, they discovered that the pilot had died only a few days after the flights, in a mysterious crash in the 'Grand Canyon'. Brody - Male Stripper and Wrestler ?And then there's this report from Deputy Police Chief Eckart of the Henderson Police Department about the unexplained death of one of Johnston's hotel managers - a certain Mr. Damrosch. Again, never solved, or at least put down to an unlikely suicide - but connected by some witnesses to one of Johnston's employees, a young male stripper, called Brody, posing as a wrestler at Johnston's 'California Combat Club' in 'Vegas. At first the 'Vegas Metropolitan Police Department were going to charge Johnston for employing a minor - but all the paper-work was OK - Brody was apparently twenty-one - although he looks younger, and the witnesses withdrew their testimony - so the investigation collapsed.", Hoover said, passing a copy of advertising material featuring Brody to Tolson. Agent John Lewis - CIA"Nice looking boy...", Tolson commented - and Hoover nodded. "And there's also some information, via the Egyptian Intelligence Services, and the CIA, with regard to Johnston buying up property in Luxor, Egypt, and reportedly making forays into the desert to archaeological sites but, as usual, nothing confirmed. And the CIA sent one of their men, Agent John Lewis, to Egypt to contact Johnston, and discover what he was doing in there - and then Lewis promptly disappeared - never seen or heard of again ! And last, but not least, there's the connection between Johnston and Anthony Stark, the son of Howard Stark. Now as you should know, Howard Stark worked on many projects for the 'Department of Defence' during the Second World War. Shortly after the end of the War, Howard died, leaving his considerable fortune, his patents and inventions to his son, Tony. Tony did some work for the government, but then concentrated on work in the private sector. Tony StarkHoward and Alexander Johnston were close friends, having known each other at Yale. Tony met our James Johnston around the time that Alexander Johnston adopted the boy 'James' - aka 'Marcus'. Now Stark and Johnston are co-operating with one another on projects - but we have been unable to discover the actual nature of these projects - although Tony has been to Egypt with James Johnston - and he also appears to be involved in 'Athena' projects in Mexico. Now like his father, Tony knows too much about the Defence Establishment, and so did Alexander Johnston, and probably this unknown protégé, 'Jim' knows more than he should... You know Clyde, it's all very strange, and frustrating - and too much of all this 'stinks', and very little makes much sense - so I want to know what's going on - I want your help with this, Clyde..", and Hoover stood up and looked Tolson in the eye in a way that could have had many meanings... Of course one important thing that Hoover had not mentioned, and had left out of his very full and astute briefing was Teddy ! - maybe because Teddy always seems to be someone else's business.... And with Hoover and Tolson in Washington really no further forward, we return once again to the meeting in La Vegas, Nevada. By this time Josh had resumed his seat, and Jim, for the final time had 'taken the floor.' "Now unless anyone has any more comments - or any questions, I think we can close this meeting.... But I must remind you that we will be leaving, with fully packed bags, first thing in the morning - and that means six - from the 'Penthouse Building' basement garage, where blacked-out limos will be waiting to take you to 'McCarran Airport' - and please - no noise - we want to leave without drawing any unwanted attention to ourselves. Remember that we are travelling normally, so you will need your US Passport, and your 'Athena Corporation' Identity Cards with you - and on boarding the 'plane you will be given a full spending allowance in Mexican Pesos, and try not to get confused, as the Peso and the Dollar use the same symbol - $ - but your credit cards will be generally accepted.", Jim explained. "And for how long shall we be flying ?", Teddy asked - as always anxious about the flight. "About ten hours, Teddy.", Jim replied. "And we'll be using our 'Dreamliner ?", Teddy added. "Yes Teddy - our own 'Dreamliner', from McCarran, here in 'Vegas.", Jim said. So morning came, and everyone, including Clare, made their way to the basement garage where the limos were waiting. The 'Dreamliner' Takes-off from 'McCarran Airport' for Mexico Fortunately Josh had arranged for bellhops from the 'Paradise Park' and the 'Club Jaguar' to handle the numerous items of luggage. The only people who were missing were Tony Stark and Faunus, who remained at the 'Villa Athena' , still struggling to come to terms with the information that Teddy had brought back from the 'alien leader'. Once their passports were checked (so obviously Mr Tolson knew that they were leaving the USA - but no visas were required), they left the terminal building. The huge 'Dreamliner' was duly waiting for them on the tarmac, with the pilot and crew waiting to personally greet Jim. "So, here we are, back on our own personal 'hotel on wings'...", Ethan said, yawning at the same time. And once they had taken-off , Ethan went to his bedroom - to get back to sleep. "Buenas noches, Ethan.", Teddy said, as he plumped up his cushions, and prepared to review his database for Mayan history while Ethan slept. The 'Dreamliner', after a ten hour flight, lands at Villahermosa International Airport, where pre-booked limousines are waiting to take the group to the 'Hotel Quinta Chanabnal' in Palenque. Then, after an early night, they plan their next move over breakfast in their new hotel... LINK CLICK BELOW FOR All text - © Copyright Peter Crawford 2023 All Images - © Copyright Vittorio Carvelli 2023 Graphic Design - © Copyright Zac Sawyer 2023
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