0 comments/ 12885 views/ 0 favorites Wheel of Fantasy By: Delauno The first of Three NuErotic Tales © All Rights Reserved ********** Main Characters Arthur Baynebridge - A poverty stricken no hoper surviving day to day off his wits. He lives a banal existence masking a mysterious past. He is living day to day, only finding solace in alcohol and other illicit substances. Luke D'Angelo - Charismatic devious TV show host. A very high profile extrovert that exudes hype and oozes charm. Has a soft powerful voice and is full of an animal magnetism that makes him irresistibly attractive to women. Carmella Attenzione - Luke's voluptuous Assistant. Alexia - The mysterious chauffer. ********** Act One - Home Sweet Home Location: In an aging block of flats footsteps echo up a dimly lit concrete stairwell toward a dark dingy apartment. A man in a heavy overcoat stumbles upwards. He is fumbling in his overcoat pocket for a key. As he approaches his apartment's door he finally finds his key. Before entering he pauses for a moment and reaches into another of his overcoat pockets. He pulls out a crumpled packet of cigarettes. Arthur: Looking closely at the crumpled cardboard box. "Oh shit!" He flips the lid open and pulls out one of the contorted cigarettes. With his free hand he reaches back into the same overcoat pocket and pulls out a cigarette lighter. He reaches up with the lighter in his hand and lights his cigarette by drawing deeply. He releases the grey smoke into the cold late night darkness. He then places the cigarette lighter back into his pocket. Now he reaches for the apartment's deadlock with the key in his hand. In his first attempt the key is deflected as it scrapes against the metal on the deadlock. His second attempt the key bounces off the deadlock. His third attempt the key awkwardly penetrates the lock. He turns it slowly and it clunks and clicks. The lock eventually gives way and allows the heavy set door to open. He enters barely noticing the dank odour of the mouldy old carpet. The entrance to the two room apartment is cluttered with clothes, bags and various containers and boxes. The mostly empty vessels and scant wall decorations hint at a previous illustrious existence. The man stands wavering momentarily from exhaustion then he moves cautiously negotiating around the confusion. He moves toward an old red velour couch. He plonks himself on the couch and draws deeply on the half consumed cigarette. He looks down beside him searching for something. He can't see it. With his free hand he reaches between the couches old stained cushions. He still can't feel what he's looking for. His eyes start to squint from tiredness as he begins to scan the apartment. At the other side of the cramped main room he sees what he's after on the old timber laminate breakfast bar. Next to an unwashed dinner plate and half full glass of beer is the TV remote control. Slowly he raises himself and moves toward the cramped kitchenette. As he approaches the bar he ignores the build up of dishes in the single tub sink. There must be at least three days worth as the food is firmly encrusted on the dishes and pots that sit at the bottom of the pile. He finishes his cigarette as he reaches the remote control. He takes one last deep draw and releases the noxious fumes into the cool humid atmosphere. He starts his return trip to the couch holding the control in his hand. Then he detours to the old dilapidated fridge that is humming in the corner of the kitchen. On top is a small empty brown bottle that he proceeds to push his smouldering cigarette butt into. Then he opens the fridge door and reaches in without looking. Jackpot! He pulls out another impish brown bottle. This time it's full and unopened. He struggles with sweaty hands and twists the cap against the rotation of the bottle. Eventually the cap gives way and he takes a crude swig from the elfish bottle. He burps loudly as the amber liquid battles for space in his gullet. Arthur: "Whoah shit!" This time he lets out a smaller burp and his stomach settles a little more. His head starts to spin. He's not going to make it to the couch. A wave of lethargy suddenly overwhelms Arthur. The last thing he remembers is his bedroom door getting closer and then in the semi darkness his face hitting the cool cotton polyester blend of his pillow's cover. Then the bright incessant flashing lights of the nearby neon skyscrapers commence their hypnotic penetration of the flimsy curtains that adorn the small bedroom window. Act Two - Late Night TV The invasive neon lights and late night traffic noises sustain an unrelenting attack on Arthur's rest. His eyes spring wide open. The cocktail of caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, salt and fat wasn't having its usual dampening effect. It was time for the only sure cure for insomnia. Late night TV. He gingerly rises taking the remote control that rests by his face next to the pillow. On the side table he feels for and picks up the crumpled cigarette packet. He takes another twisted cigarette and places it in his mouth. In the burst of coloured light he pauses to see if the lighter is within sight. No such luck. He arrives at the dank couch and he remembers that lighter is in a pocket of his overcoat that is hung over the armrest. He then lights his cigarette and then negotiates a comfortable position with his head nestled against the armrest and his legs raised onto the far side of the couch. He presses the red button on the remote control that is being directed clumsily at the small black box in the corner of the room. The well worn black plastic relic crackles and hisses into life. A screen full of very loud static welcomes him. The green l-e-d indicator bar reduces its indications simultaneously as the volume decreases. A green number two then appears on the top right hand side of the screen and a fuzzy image appears. It's not very clear but he can make out the perfect abdominal features exuding energy. The Abswing endorsement music is only barely audible under the static hiss. Arthur: "Fuck that's too much exercise for me at this hour." The number three appears at the top right hand side of the screen. The blurry image is in black and white. It is an old movie, a classic that takes too much concentration to watch. The number four then appears on the top right hand side of the screen. This channel is just static. Number five normally doesn't get a clear picture at all. Arthur wasn't even sure that it had been tuned to a channel. So he tried to pass it quickly. In the instant that the number five appears on the screen an image flickers but the speed that Arthur changes channel upwards and the static makes it too hard to see. From what he could make out it resembles an ad for a phone sex line. He could make out a gorgeous woman saying something. However Arthur did not recognise this particular ad. A telephone number also briefly appears in the instantaneous vision. At the number six there is too much static in the image. He clicks back down. Arthur: "That's unusual." The image flickers again however it remains too fuzzy to make out. Arthur loses patience and flicks up to the next available channel. The image is still only static. He goes up another channel. More static. He keeps clicking upwards through the channels until he is back at number one. Number one has now also gone completely out of tune. Arthur looks over at the dog-eared aerial that rests precariously next to the television set. Beside the aerial is his open bedroom door that aligns with his small bedroom window. The scene reveals the culprit to the interrupted TV viewing. The monstrous city skyscrapers that interfere with his ability to get a clear signal lurk in the background smugly flaunting their entrancing flashing neon lights. Arthur: Whispering under his breath. "Fuck I hate those buildings." Out of habit he continues to climb through the channels. He gets to number five and a clear image briefly flickers through the static. Arthur: "Shit." Arthur waits on this channel for a few seconds. The image of a seductive woman flickers momentarily but the audio is not discernable. Arthur: "That's weird." He is curious as this channel has never had a picture on it before. Arthur raises himself off the couch and moves toward the rickety aerial. He twists the crooked right antenna slightly higher and to the left. The picture flickers momentarily again then it dissolves into the static. Arthur: Sensing a small eminent victory. "Mmmh... almost..." With some additional movement of the aerial the picture starts to develop a hazy form and the audio clears up a little. The Male Voice-Over on the TV crackles. "...chance of a lifetime. And it's absolutely free." The audio blends into the hissing static once again. Arthur wasn't sure he heard right and was getting more and more frustrated by the lack of reception. His television was his only solace in his grim world and even though it wasn't usually great this latest denial of privilege was adding insult to injury. Arthur: "Come on." Frantically manoeuvring the aerial. "Come on you're the only thing I have left that doesn't shit me..." Sometimes miracles do happen... The image emerges clearer than ever before. The screen zooms out on an elaborate game show wheel spinning at speed. As the shot zooms out further a seductive assistant is revealed standing next to it. An assistant unlike any Arthur has ever seen on late night television. Arthur: "Holy shite!" There is still a lot of static over the audio but at least the image is clear. The assistant is adorned in delicate black see-through lingerie. It's not leaving anything to the imagination. Arthur: Shaking his head he reveals a little of his past. "Finally we're getting continental with our TV." Arthur's arm becomes heavy with fatigue. As he lowers the aerial only slightly the image begins to dissolve into static. Arthur: "Oh no." Again Arthur tries to adjust the blur. Both the audio and vision are gone. In his frustration he leaves the aerial momentarily and flicks through the range of channels. But there's nothing available. He presses the channel five button on the remote control and frenetically moves the aerial to try to regain vision. The image is still static but the audio begins to get clearer. Male Voiceover: "...erable life. You can make your wildest fantasy come true. All you need to do is..." The audio fades momentarily then it comes back. Male Voiceover: "...just phone us now on Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six. Don't lose this lifetime opportunity. Our offer is completely free. Yes you heard that right, it's completely... The voice begins to fade out and Arthur frantically manoeuvres to fix the reception but he only succeeds in completely losing the audio once again. Arthur: Leaning to his left and glaring through his bedroom window at the skyscrapers. "I'll blow the fuck out of you one day." Suddenly the image re-emerges. It's the beautiful assistant. A dark haired olive skinned curvy beauty. She is standing next to the wheel with her hands indicating the prize names that are etched onto the wheel segments. Arthur is trying to make out what they are but a phone number appears on the screen obscuring the prize details. The image behind the numbers then zooms into the woman's bust. Arthur: "Bloody hell!" The bold numbers register in Arthur's memory. Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six. Again Arthur falters with the building fatigue in his arm. He loses the image. He desperately moves the aerial again but only the audio returns for a moment. Male Voiceover: "...let your miserable life get the better of you. Take control and spin the wheel of fantasy. It's free and you'll never look back, all you have to do is..." The audio fades once again. Arthur desperately tries to regain some reception. But there's only static on the screen. He keeps jiggling and fumbling with the two twisted antennae, but nothing emerges. A realization of futility sweeps over him. He's lost the contact with something that he wanted to know. He needed to know. He looks through his dark bedroom window at the buildings that seemed to stare back at him defiantly. Arthur: "Bastards." 'What was that ad?' he thought to himself. The whole episode seems to disappear in the hazy swirl of his memory. All that stuck in his memory was an olive skinned beauty, a mysterious wheel and a long phone number. The number just wouldn't leave his memory. Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six. Act Three - Call Me Again Arthur found himself tested by the incessant intrusion of those ubiquitous neon lights. He's lying in bed trying to let his fatigue overwhelm him but the lights keep pushing their penetrating energy through his eyelids. He rolls over to face away but he can still feel the lights presence. Arthur: "Oh shit." He's been lying for a while. Fading in and out of consciousness. As he drifts out of consciousness he enters straight into a weird dream. Those damn numbers keep reverberating in his head. Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six. The weird thing about the dream is that as he drifts back into consciousness the weird dream doesn't fade away. It seems to waken with him. Even the incessant neon pulses seem to be echoing those numbers. Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six. Arthur can't stand it so he searches for respite from this peculiar lilt. He raises himself gingerly. Arthur: "Where did I put those smokes?" The light in the main living room momentarily blinds him as he flicks the switch on. Eventually Arthur can see the crumpled packet placed on the old derelict couch. He captures the servile target and opens it. Only one smoke left. Arthur: "Phew..." As he looks around for his lighter the lights from the other side of the apartment seem to pulse out an unerring almost poetic rhythm. It reminded him of how he used to recall phone numbers. Only now the light's rhythm only kept pulsing out one number. It departed from Arthur's mouth in a soft whisper. Arthur: (Soft whisper) "Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six." In his peripheral vision the phone seems to inexplicably attract Arthur's attention. A twinge of curiosity starts to creep into Arthur's consciousness. As he turns to look directly at the phone the numbers softly spill from his lips. Arthur: (Soft whisper) "Zero, zero, one, three, nine, eight, seven, six, six, six." The compulsion is now overwhelming. A strange magnetism draws Arthur closer to the phone. His memory momentarily blurs and the next thing he can see is his fingers punching out the numbers on the dirty buttons of the touch phone. Zero, zero, one, three, nine. He pauses trying to resist this overpowering urge but its no use. The inexplicable momentum gets the better of him. Eight, seven, six, six, six. An uneasy silence underpins the intense atmosphere that now permeates the dingy room. Then the inimitable ring tone intensifies against his ear. Arthur's heart beats stronger. He tenses himself in anticipation of the inevitable answer. The ring tone continues. For a brief moment Arthur feels like he's escaped a mysterious fate. His relaxation is unfounded. A strong sensual voice answers his involuntary summons. Female Voice: "Welcome to the Wheel of Fantasy. This is Carmela. How can I help you?" A nervous tremor reverberates through Arthur. He hesitates. Carmela: "Hello... Hello... Is anyone there?" Arthur: "Hell... Hello." Carmela: "Hi... Who's calling?" Arthur's mind is racing. He knows he has to say something and he also knows he needs to be guarded. But the tension lets down his guard. Arthur: "Hello, my name is Arthur Baynebridge." Carmela: Her voice becomes smooth, almost intoxicating. "Hello Arthur did you know you've rung the Wheel of Fantasy?" Arthur: "Well... I saw the ad on TV. Carmela interrupts. Carmela: "Would you like to join us?" Arthur: Well... I just wanted to know about..." Carmela: "Don't be nervous Arthur. Let me tell you a little about the Wheel." Arthur: "Yeah, sure... I heard that I can change my..." Carmela: "That's right Arthur. Wheel of Fantasy is an amazing opportunity. Arthur: "So how..." Carmela: Politely interrupting once again. "So you'd like to take the opportunity to change your life... An opportunity to get further than what you already had." Arthur looks up at a framed certificate that illustrates his illustrious past. His voice deepens. Arthur: "Yes... Doesn't everybody?" Carmela: A subtle laugh escapes from her voice. "I guess everyone does. Well heres a chance to do that. All you have to do is just say... Yes." Arthur stays silent. Awkward seconds slip by. His focus remains on the framed certificate. Arthur: "Ok, tell me..." The silence makes Arthur edgy. Arthur: "Hello... Hell..." Carmela: "Ok Arthur give me your details and we'll be in contact in a very, very short time." Arthur takes a few seconds to absorb the compelling request. As Arthur provides his details he sees through the small window next to his front door the lights of a car approaching from down the street. He completes the information and a sleek dark limousine comes into view. It rolls slowly past the apartment block. Carmela: "Thank you Arthur. Now just relax and well be back to you very shortly..." Arthur: "How short..." Carmela: Politely interrupts again with her smooth and strong persuasive voice. "Very, very shortly." At this point the line goes dead and Arthur realises he has an unlit cigarette still hanging from the side of his mouth. He is still following the tail lights of the limousine that is now further down the street. He turns away from the window and the phone and notices his cigarette lighter is placed poignantly on the couch's armrest. Arthur: As he sinks deep into the couches aging cushions reaching over for the lighter. "Ah finally the comfort of good old nicotine." Act Four - The Awakening Arthur stirs in a doze on the aging couch. Gentle rapping breaks the silence in the apartment. Arthur's eyes spring wide open as another round of rapping finishes. Arthur: "What..." He squints to adjust his eyes to the dimly lit dinginess of his shabby abode. The front window rattles once again. Arthur turns over his shoulder to look at the window. He can see that it's become darker outside. At the window a silhouette is trying to attract his attention. Arthur: Quietly to himself. "Who the fuck..." He gets up very slowly and shuffles to the front door. The rapping stops. As he gets closer to the door he shields his eyes trying to make out who is invading his privacy. But the outside passage lights have gone off. Arthur thinks to himself that it must be very late. He slides the chain into the lock. Arthur: "Who is it?" For a moment there's no response. Then another silky smooth female voice responds. Female Voice: "It's your driver." Arthur stops dead in his tracks. Wariness creeps under his skin. Arthur: Questions. "Driver?" Female Voice: "Is this Arthur Baynebridge of apartment 6G 103 Pearmoth Drive?" Arthur: Standing in stunned silence. "Yes that's me." Female Voice: "Well I'm here to take you to the Wheel of Fantasy." A wave of realisation flushes through Arthur. The earlier call had seemed so surreal he had misplaced it in his mind. Now it started to come back. Arthur: Fumbling for the door handle. "I'm sorry I wasn't expecting someone to call so soon." Female Voice: "That's Ok Wheel is something really special." Wheel of Fantasy Arthur pulls the door open to let the visitor in. It jams ajar on the security chain. Arthur: "Oops sorry." He closes the door and unlatches the chain then pulls it wide open. As the door sends a vent of air inside Arthur is overwhelmed by the strong smell of perfume and leather. He takes a deep breath in anticipation. As the mysterious woman enters the apartment the dim light reflects off her long shiny dark leather coat. With each step she takes Arthur is entranced by the silky smooth skin of the long legs that emerge from the split of the lustrous overcoat. Arthur is initially entranced by the patton leather high heel tie up shoes that adorn the long sensual feet. His eyes then delve upwards and complete an examination of this refined beauty. The skin of her exposed upper thigh disappears in the darkness of what's hidden underneath that smooth shiny coat. Retaining her proud stance she reveals her flaxen hair by removing the elegant leather peaked cap that marks her servitude. She gives Arthur a brazen smile and looks him over. Arthur becomes embarrassingly conscious of his dress. Arthur: "Oh. Sorry I'm not really... ready... to go." The Driver: "That's alright Arthur you're fine as you are. We'll get you ready at the studio." She reaches for his hand and Arthur humbly accepts the strangely warm invitation. The Driver: Adding. "Come on, your in for something exceptional." Arthur suddenly finds himself following the flowing movement of the seductive driver without further question. At the bottom of the stairwell an uncomfortable warm surprise flushes through his body. Parked on the streetside is a shiny black limousine. Arthur recognises it instantly. Water vapour illuminated by the red taillights pours upwards out of the exhaust pipe. The engine is running. The driver floats over to the back door and opens it for Arthur. A nostalgic notion grips Arthur. He enters the car with an air of familiarity as he looks back at the apartment block with disdain. Act Five - The Green Room The short limousine trip seems a blur to Arthur. It barely seems minutes and the sleek dark silent machine is turning into a long driveway that is guarded by an imposing intricate wrought iron gate. Arthur carefully surveys the remarkable structure. A narrow drive enters into a tall unsettling archway. The limousine stops in front of a grand ornately decorated door. The driver opens the car and is soon guiding him into the daunting site. Driver: "Come Arthur." He follows obediently. She takes him down a long corridor to an unmarked dark green door. His eyes fix on the driver's stylish walk that flaunts her long sensual legs. Driver: "Arthur you'll find everything you need to freshen up in here. Make yourself comfortable and Luke will be in to see you soon." Arthur: Questions. "Luke?" Driver: She reveals an audacious smile. "Luke is the Wheel of Fantasy host." Arthur enters the room and it closes with a forceful clunk behind him. He turns slowly and examines the room carefully. The room is simple and elegant. It is painted in a deep olive green with gold trims. Two deep-seated leather Chesterfield lounges sit proudly in the middle of the room. They are parted by a coffee table. On the table is an ornate silver tray with two wine glasses and an open bottle of clean skinned wine. Arthur notices that a neatly pressed business shirt accompanied by a charcoal suit have been neatly laid over the armrests of one of the Chesterfields. He walks into the room a little further and sees a pair of leather shoes neatly placed at the side of that couch. To the right hand side of the room is an open door that leads into a bathroom. Another door is at the opposite side. It is slightly ajar and it marks the entrance to a well-stocked wardrobe. A third door is on the left hand side and it is shut tight. A soft knock startles Arthur. The handle on the door to the left hand side starts to turn Arthur watches intently as the door slowly swings partially open. A patch of dark hair, the top a woman's head, appears from behind the door. A familiar soft voice announces the person who's face is obscured. Carmela: "Hello Arthur." Arthur stands in silence waiting to see what emerges from behind the door. Carmela: "Its Carmela Assistente here, may I come in?" She pauses for a moment. "I spoke to you earlier on the phone." Arthur quietly and cautiously responds. Arthur: "Come in... Please." Arthur is astounded by the familiarity of the female that slides sideways from behind the door. She was exactly like the image on the TV. Her deep penetrating dark eyes catch his stare. Then he couldn't help but stare at her soft curves. Her skin seems to have a distinct glow in the feint light of this room of repose. Arthur is acutely self conscious of the attention he is giving her form. Her body is only barely covered by her semi-transparent garment. It makes Arthur suddenly very uncomfortable of his own destitute state. The voluptuous olive skinned beauty cautiously glares back at this furtive man. She notices that he has seen the clothes that were laid out for him. Carmela: "I just came to make sure that you have everything you need before Luke sees you." Arthur: Very tentatively replies. "Yes... I think everything is... fine thank you." Carmela: "Good then... we'll see you in a few minutes. The bathroom should have everything you need to freshen up." Arthur: Meekly. "Thank you." Carmela: "You're most welcome." Carmela then peeks deep into Arthur's eyes and slips past the partly opened door. Arthur's fragile confidence is simmering. So he decides to head for the bathroom. He passes the right hand couch and takes the suit and shoes that have been laid out for him. He then enters the brightly lit bathroom that is at the right hand side of the room. As he closes the door he can hear a familiar rattle and clunk of the door handle behind him. Arthur doesn't look back he just closes the bathroom door. Act Six - Conditions of Entry The steaming hot shower has fuelled up Arthur's very low energy reserves. Every pore on his skin seems to be taking in the intoxicating oxygen. Déjà vu flows through him as he buttons the elegant pale grey and blue pin striped business shirt. He slides the charcoal suit jacket over his shoulders. The fit is perfect. He glances in the mirror and wipes away the vapour revealing his freshly shaved face. A smile curls across his lips. Energy he hasn't felt for a long time is building within. He then finishes folding his old clothes and places them on the basin bench. Arthur takes one last look at the basin mirror before leaving the bathroom. Arthur: "Ok Arthur now I think your ready to meet Luke." He opens the bathroom door. There he stops as he is startled to see the back of an impeccably dressed man sitting on the nearest couch. Arthur notes that the man's right arm is resting on the back of the couch. His hand is holding a half full glass of wine. A smooth resonating voice fills the room. Man: "Arthur, I'm very glad you could join us." Arthur is momentarily curious. 'Us?' The man doesn't turn to face Arthur. Arthur cautiously moves into the room. Then he stops startled for a second time. The 'us' reference is now clear. A beautiful woman reveals herself by rising up from being obscured by the man and the back of the couch. It's the driver. Driver: In a sensual tone. "Hi Arthur I'm Alexia." Arthur nods his acquiescence. Alexia smiles hers in return. The Man: "You know Alexia." Arthur: "We've met but not been introduced." The Man: "And Carmela?" Arthur's curiosity is pricked once again. Arthur: Quietly asks to himself. "Carmela?" A third revelation as Carmela rises from her concealment behind the couch. Carmela: "Hi there. I see you've found everything." Arthur nods his acquiescence once again. The man's voice seizes prominence in the room. The Man: "Come Arthur sit on the couch." Without turning the man indicates with his free hand for Arthur to sit on the opposing couch. The two women rear incrementally away from the formidable voice. As Arthur wheels around the near couch the man slowly raises himself. He turns to greet Arthur who is approaching the far couch. He extends his arm and offers his hand. The Man: "Hello I'm Luke D'Angelo. Pleased to finally meet you." Arthur confidently reaches back. Arthur: "Arthur Baynebridge. Pleasure." Luke smiles acknowledging Arthur's revitalised confidence. Then with a twitch of his toned cheek muscle the two fine specimens take their cue. They recoil toward the left hand door, their faces always fixed on this majestic man. They slip from view and the door closes. Luke returns his attention to Arthur. His eyes seem to sparkle as he begins to speak. Luke: "Delightful creatures?" Arthur again slowly nods his acquiescence. Luke: "How are you feeling Arthur?" Arthur hesitates. Luke's eyes widen drawing a frank softly spoken reply from the tentative guest. Arthur: "Nervous..." Luke: His voice changes to comfort his uneasy guest. "Don't worry its only natural to feel a little overawed by all this." Arthur's disquiet drains steadily as Luke relaxes his posture on the comfortable lounges. Luke: "Arthur I'm very glad you decided to join us on the Wheel of Fantasy." Arthur slightly closes his posture revealing his uncertainty of this intriguing situation. Luke: "Well Arthur let me tell you about the opportunity that I am about to provide you." Arthur raises one brow acknowledging the pitch he is about to receive. Luke then changes his tack a little. Luke: "Before I can start I'd like to confirm a couple of things with you." Arthur: "Sure like, what would you like to know?" Luke's facial muscles become tense indicating a very serious question. Luke: "You want to have all the things that you've dreamt about?" Arthur senses an unexpected sense of power in the relationship. His answer is slow and deliberate. Arthur: "Yes." Luke looks into and penetrates Arthur's eyes. His voice turns into a powerful whisper. Luke: "Do you want to show all those who betrayed and abandoned you?" Arthur: There is no hesitation in this answer. "Yes!" Luke: Emphasises the last in this series of questions. "Are you prepared to take the ultimate risk to touch your dreams?" Arthur takes a second to absorb the question. He rapidly analyses and determines the stakes. His eyes squint slightly and through gritted teeth he responds with impudent determination. Arthur: "Yes." A deep dark twisted smile exudes from Luke's mouth. He reaches over to the open bottle of wine and pours a little into the empty glass on the coffee table. Arthur takes his cue and reaches over to pick it up. Luke: "Very good Arthur. Now let me explain The Wheel of Fantasy to you. I think you're going to be... pleasantly surprised." Act Seven - The Wheel of Fantasy Arthur's raises the glass to his lips and his nostrils fill with the scrumptious fragrance of a wood that is unknown to him. He briefly looks into his glass and is engrossed by the delicate golden highlight that enhances the smooth claret liquid. As the liquid touches his tongue he is overwhelmed by its distinctive taste. It is delicately imprinted with unknown floral intricacies. This was no exceptional wine as Arthur was once accustomed to. This was a taste of paradise. Arthur puffs his cheeks and tilts his head sideways to compliment Luke. Luke accepts with another in his repertoire of devastating smiles. Arthur savours another mouthful of the delicate liquor. Luke: "Well let me start by saying that Wheel is a rare opportunity." Arthur listens intently. Luke: "It's a game that even when you lose, you can still win." Arthur: "I like that." Luke: "The best way to describe Wheel is... Lets say... a pyramid game." Arthur: "Pyramid game?" Luke: "Yes Arthur, you see Wheel of Fantasy needs new guests." Arthur notes the devious emphasis on the word guest. Luke: Continues. "We ask our participating guest to offer the identity of other potential participants." Arthur: "So far that doesn't sound very risky." Luke: Affronted. "Don't worry there is a minimal risk that I assure you is quite shattering." Arthur waits in silence. Arthur: "So what is the prize for this risk?" Luke: "The prizes are on the Wheel of Fantasy itself. Sixty five of the Earth's most desirable jewels." Arthur: "Sixty five prizes?" Luke: "And you have the opportunity to accumulate three of them." Arthur: "So what do I have to do?" Luke: "You'll be offered the opportunity to spin the wheel three times." Arthur: "Offered?" Luke: "To spin the wheel you need to provide us with a potential guest's name and a little information about that person." Arthur: "That sounds like a kid's game." Luke: "Well there is the risk." Arthur facial expression pleads for more information. Luke: "One segment on the wheel indicates the game default." Arthur: "Default?" Luke: "All that means is that you'll have to return to your former existence with... let's say... an obligation." Arthur wanted to ask the obvious question but ultimately refrains. Instead... Arthur: "One in sixty six... mmm not bad odds." Luke: "Wait... there's more..." Luke softens his voice. "It gets better." Arthur nods for Luke to continue. Luke: "Should you progress and accumulate three prizes you will then be offered one last chance to either... Arthur waits anxiously for the choices. Luke: "... take your prizes and allow us to... invite your nominations or..." Again Arthur feels unbearable anticipation. Arthur: "Or?" Luke: "Return to your previous existence with no obligation." Arthur realises the critical probability, the fifty-fifty chance. Arthur: "Oh I see." A devious smile curls across Luke's face. Luke: "Well... We can't make it too easy." Arthur raises his eyebrows and contemplates the interesting proposition. The odds are exceptional. His only concern was the obligation, but then again it was only a one in sixty six chance for each of the three progressive spins. Arthur: "I must say Luke that this all seems too good to be true." Luke: "Well let's say that it's a game that both of us have a great chance of winning." Arthur looks back at Luke suspiciously. He starts to ask the obvious question. Arthur: "Luke..." Luke: "Yes Arthur." Arthur loses his nerve. Arthur: "No matter..." He pauses and takes a deep breath. "I'll accept your invitation Luke." Luke: "I'm very glad to have you onboard." Arthur smiles and thinks to himself, "well at least this is going to be an interesting event." Arthur then takes another sip of that delicious wine as Luke raises himself to prepare for the contest. Luke: Opening the left hand door to leave. "Carmela will be calling very soon. Relax and don't worry about a thing..." The door closes and Arthur leans back and snuggles into the stiff leather back of the Chesterfield. Act Eight - Game On Again Arthur is startled and his eyes spring wide open. This time a gentle hand shakes his shoulder. Alexia: "Its time Arthur." Arthur looks up and sees Alexia smiling at him reassuringly. Arthur: "Oh sorry I must of dosed off again." Alexia reaches for his hand and begins to gently pull him out of the lounge. Alexia: "Come Arthur." Arthur could feel his doubts melting away in her tender engaging grip. He could feel another phenomenal surge of power accumulating inside him. Something that had been lacking for quite some time in his life. Alexia opens the left hand door and Arthur follows. As they make their way down a long corridor Arthur begins to question what he is walking into. Sensing apprehension Alexia turns to reassure Arthur once again. Alexia: "At the end of this corridor is the stage entrance." Arthur nods his comprehension. Alexia: "You'll stand just outside and wait for your cue." Arthur: "Ok." Alexia: "You'll hear an introduction along with audience applause." Arthur: Struggling to keep pace with Alexia's long strides. "Yes." Alexia: "Your cue is... And let's give a big hand for tonight's guest." Arthur: Paraphrasing Alexia. "Lets give a big hand for tonight's..." Alexia: "That's right." Arthur confirms with a nod. Alexia: "When Luke says your name you will be greeted on stage by Carmela. She will take you to the center of the stage where Luke is waiting." The echo of their footsteps starts to diminish as they begin to hear the dull roar of the studio audience emanating from the stage entrance that draws ever closer in front of them. Alexia: "From there Luke will guide you. He'll ask you questions and all you have to do is answer." Arthur: "Sounds easy." Alexia: Soothing softness creeps into her voice. "It is... It's nothing really." Alexia comes to a sudden halt. They stand in front of a doorway that has no door. In its place is a heavy black velvet curtain. Arthur makes out the bright light that seeps past the curtain's fringe. The rush and bustle of many people moving and talking as they settle for a spectacle barely penetrates the heavy black material. Alexia turns to him. Alexia: "The lights are very bright and very hot. If you need something... a drink... just look back toward this entrance." Arthur again nods a feeble confirmation. Alexia urges forward and tenderly embraces him. She presses her bosom hard against him and then softly kisses his cheek. As the noise beyond the curtain dies down they draw apart. Alexia: "Good luck Arthur. The game is now on..." Alexia then slides past the curtain out of view leaving Arthur alone to contemplate his looming cue... Act Nine - Round One Arthur stands nervously waiting. There is a lot of activity beyond the dark curtain and he can feel the intensity building. A familiar powerful booming voice begins an oratory invitation on the other side of the curtain. Voice beyond the Curtain: "This is Luke D'Angelo welcoming you to another enthralling episode of..." The voice draws a deep breath then potently announces. "The Wheel of Fantasy." Arthur carefully notes the clear articulate words over the emerging roar of the studio audience. Voice: "The only game show on Earth that can fulfil your wildest fantasies." The audience erupts into spontaneous audacious applause. Voice: "Tonight's guest is here for a chance to revive his once celebrated prosperity." The audience hushes and Arthur senses the approaching invitation. Voice: "So let's all give an extra special welcome to tonight's guest..." That was it. Arthur takes a deep breath and draws the heavy black curtain across drenching himself in a blinding white light. The voice booms out strangely unfamiliar words as he steps into the stifling glare. Voice: Loud and dramatically announces. "Arthur... Baynebridge!" Still unsighted Arthur feels an arm sliding inside his. Then he turns to face the person he is leaning against. A familiar soothing voice relaxes him even though the light has made it difficult to recognise. Carmela: Quietly whispers to Arthur. "Come Arthur, this way..." Arthur still can't make out any form against this brilliant backdrop. He is swept into a movement toward a central stage. The thunderous clapping sends a tremor through him. Out of the hazy brilliance he begins to see Carmela striding forcefully beside him. Then he turns to face forward and he can make out the raised stage and two isolated stools. One occupied by the strangely solitary Luke. He holds a microphone tightly in his left hand. As Arthur and Carmela approach Luke rises from his stool and reaches over to greet his nervous guest. Wheel of Fantasy The rowdy applause continues transforming into an escalating pulsing chant. Audience: "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke..." Luke raises his other hand and the chant abates. Eventually an uneasy silence grips the surreal scene. Luke: "Welcome Arthur to the Wheel of Fantasy." Arthur nods and quietly replies. Arthur: "Thank you Luke." Arthur looks upwards, startled by the amplified echo of his meek reply. Luke smiles back to corroborate the use of electronic trickery. Luke then turns to the hushed audience that is concealed behind the two high banks of studio lights. Luke: "Tonight's guest comes to us from down town City Central. He is a former corporate high flier who once commanded one of the most formidable business empires this country has ever seen." The audience instantly bursts into an outpouring of rowdy appreciation. The pulsing chant begins again. Audience: Softly at first and intensifying. "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke..." Then very loud for three chants until it quickly abates once again... "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke..." The simmering quiet returns. Luke: "Arthur is here with a dream to rebuild that once remarkable empire." Luke draws a breath to rebuild the dramatic emphasis. "And tonight on wheel of fantasy we will give him the chance to do just that!" Arthur rears back on his stool as the audience repeats the raw outpouring of appreciation. The chant resurges but this time as an incessant whisper. Audience: Quietly. "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke..." Arthur's vision is slowly regaining some depth. He can make out the stage around him but he can't see past the glare of the two high banks of lights. Arthur surveys the stage and notices that it is devoid of any props. The lights only illuminates the bare hexagonal shaped stage. The light strangely does not infiltrate behind the stage. Luke turns to face Arthur. Luke: "Arthur are you ready for the Wheel of Fantasy?" Arthur: Tries to make himself heard above the buzzing milieu. "Yes... Luke." Luke: "Well then lets bring on the Wheel of Fantasy." Applause surges and Arthur glimpses dark menacing silhouettes hiding in obscurity behind the glaring lights. He still cannot make anything out, but he is sure he can see sporadic flickering red lights in the ominous shadows. Then he is distracted by a swirl of air that heralds the arrival of a tall flat circular device. Arthur turns to look over his shoulder and watches the intriguing item slowly glide into place as if it were on rails. The audience then collectively breathes in an awesome sigh as the daunting machine comes to rest directly behind Luke and Arthur. Carmela suddenly appears from behind the structure. Luke leans toward her and tenderly kisses her cheek. She returns to take her place beside this imposing wheel. Luke: "Arthur this is the Wheel of Fantasy." Arthur: Carefully surveys the machine and whispers to himself. "Impressive." The audience buzz subsides rapidly til only a deathly silence is present. Luke: Leans closer to Arthur. "Are you ready?" Arthur: "Yes." Luke: "Arthur... to take your first spin of the wheel you must provide us with your first nomination." Arthur didn't need to take any thinking time. Arthur: "Jack..." Arthur pauses dramatically. "...Cartwright." The audience reaction is instant and electric. The acclamation reaches a fervent crescendo. Then it abates with equal fervour. Luke: " An interesting nomination Arthur." Luke turns to the obscured audience. "Jack Cartwright is Arthur's former junior business partner. Due to an unfortunate incident Jack now heads... Arthur's former empire." Arthur patiently listens and waits for his next instruction. Luke: "Now to confirm your nomination Arthur so you can take your first spin, please provide me with your nomination's..." Luke pauses momentarily to stretch out the dramatic impact. "...greatest opportunity for deliverance." The awkward silence continues. Luke: "You have twenty seconds to provide your answer." Arthur notes Luke's complex of choice words in the question. What was Luke's true intent, a search for weakness? As Arthur carefully rationalises the request he becomes acutely aware of the building warmth in the studio. He wipes the sweat off his brow with his wrist and waits... Luke: "Times up Arthur." Arthur: Sensing a need to answer frankly. "Jack's opportunity lies in his burning ambition..." Luke's expression alters. Arthur elaborates. Arthur: "...to do anything to win." Luke momentarily glares seriously at Arthur. Arthur sweats profusely. Slowly Luke's repertoire of smiles relinquishes another intrepid smirk. The audience compliments Luke's reaction with another burst of raucous adulation. Luke: Slowly and deliberately leans over to Arthur. "Well now its time..." Luke's eyebrows rise for an instant. "...to take your first spin." Arthur raises himself from his stool and the lighting changes. The high bank lights dim rapidly and a spotlight concentrates on himself. Another spotlight focuses on the imposing device. Arthur's stool seems to slide away into the surrounding darkness. The wheel slowly approaches him as if it were inviting his activation. Luke enters the new lighting arrangement from the left. Luke: "Arthur, give it a great spin... Just pull down hard." Arthur acknowledges the instruction with a nod. As Arthur reaches up grasp to the imposing deep red coloured wheel he notes the intricate markings. Elaborate numbers, words and symbols are engraved in each of the wheel's segments. One particular segment catches Arthur's eye. He didn't make out the number just the two symbols. A rearing horse and a bull's profile. Arthur clutches the wheel and pushes it upwards to get a better grip. The indicator ratchet at the top of the elegant apparatus clicks over like the barrel of a Smith and Weston revolver. Arthur then is transfixed by the black segment that is opposite to the side he is holding. He recognises that it must be the mark of the game's default. A soft drum roll begins to emanate from the darkness behind him. The drum roll intensifies and Arthur pulls down with all the force he can muster. The wheel turns in perfect balance. The drum roll is drowned out the relentless clicking of the straining ratchet. There's a subtle change in the spotlight's focus. Now only the wheel is being illuminated brightly. Arthur is mesmerised by the wheel's hypnotic reflection of the solitary spotlight. All the markings seem to flicker an animated message. It is unfamiliar to him, so he raises his internal awareness. As the wheel slows down only the sound of the diminishing drum roll and the slowing of the ratchet clicks fill the darkened arena. Eventually the ratchet clicks become individually discernible. The moving markings are apparent once again. Arthur traces the symbols that caught his attention before. They are at the bottom of the cycle. Arthur watches them as they climb agonisingly upwards as the spin draws to its conclusion. Each click can now be counted. The symbols are at nine o'clock. The lighting is augmented once again and Arthur's spotlight starts a gradual illumination. The two symbols draw ever closer to the ratchet. Suddenly the intense silence is broken by a deep collective sigh and a wave of rowdy applause. The ratchet stops on the second click in the segment with the two symbols. Luke steps back into Arthur's spotlight. Luke: "Well..." He pauses to maximise impact. "We have a prize that will get your heart..." Again another dramatic pause. "...racing." On cue a spotlight cuts high across the stage like a piercing laser beam. To the left hand of the stage a dark curtain is lit up and a fanfare of trumpets begins to blare out a high volume frenzy designed to escalate your heart rate. As the curtains draw open bright lights fade in to gradually reveal two sleek sexy machines parked at an acute angle to each other. The audience reacts by easing out a long deep "Ooo-oo-o-oh!" Two gorgeous adornments open the doors. They are wearing stunning evening gowns that perfectly colour match the bold brilliant colours of these two gorgeous chargers. A stunning brunette in a scarlet silk strapless body hugging dress that clings to all her delicate curves. Then an equally entrancing blonde emerges from the bright yellow vehicle. She fills an amazing yellow gown. The front is nothing more than an intricate triangular weave that starts at the shoulders and apexes where her thighs meet. Both gowns only barely hide the mouth watering temptations lurking underneath. Luke: "Arthur... in your prize basket... you've just placed two of the most desirable luxury racers that have ever graced this planet." The two vixens stalk their way over to Arthur sidling tightly on either side of him. Arthur squirms uncomfortably ever more conscious of the warmth intensifying within this shadowy arena. Luke: "The limited edition Ferrari Monza F650... The Diablo Rosso... one of only two ever built." The brunette reaches for Arthur's hand and places a glistening jewel encrusted key ring into his palm. The distinctive black prancing stallion on its brazen yellow background captivates Arthur's vista. He stares momentarily at it then he clenches his fist tightly around this souvenir of desire. Luke: Augmenting his delivery. "And to go with this fiery ruby..." Luke's customary pause builds more tension. "The Lamborgini Angelo Giallo... which is the only one... ever built." The blonde reaches up inside Arthur's jacket, sliding her hand sensually against Arthur's chest. She reaches his shirt's top pocket and slips another sparkling jewel trinket into the pale blue and grey striped envelope. Gentle applause begins to fill the arena. Luke: "You see Arthur it's as easy as that..." Arthur is lost for words. He just smiles awkwardly accepting the undeserved accolades. The lighting gradually changes once again and the two sirens recede into the dark surround. An uneasy hush comes over the arena as the only light on now focuses on Luke and Arthur. Luke: "Are you ready to go for your second spin?" Arthur hesitates momentarily trying to absorb the enormity of his circumstance. Arthur: "Yes... Luke... I am." The audience reverts to another surge of boisterous applause and the chant intensifies through the unbearable clapping. Audience: "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... " Act Ten - Round Two It takes a little time for this round of riotous exuberance to abate. Luke turns to Arthur. Luke: "Ok Arthur... as in the first round, I'm asking you to make another nomination." Luke steps back leaving only Arthur in the white hot spotlight. Perspiration is now trickling down Arthur's temple. He had already decided his remaining nominations. His only dilemma was the order. Arthur: His decision is eventually divulged quickly. "Steve Anderson." An unnerving hum fills the arena. Luke steps slowly back into the spotlight. Luke: "Steven Anderson..." Luke takes an excruciatingly long pause. "...your once inseparable buddy?" Arthur nods affirmatively. Luke: Continues. "Your companion through college and professional football." Again Arthur nods as he struggles for breath in the oppressive heat. The unnerving audience hum builds intensity. Luke turns to Arthur and smiles by curling the left side of his mouth and raising his left brow. Luke: "Steven Anderson who is now coveting Allyandra Popov..." Luke draws a deep breath then evocatively whispers. "...your ex wife." Arthur just blankly stares back at Luke standing next to the great imposing circular shadow. The audience hum subsides. Luke: "Ok Arthur... To progress and spin the wheel of fantasy for a second and possibly third time. Please provide Steven Anderson's opportunity for deliverance." Dark silence. Arthur: Looks down to the ground and carefully prepares to deliberate his words. "Golden brown." Another startling audience reaction makes Arthur rear backwards. The zealous ovation climbs to a sustained climax. Then as quickly as it had risen, it subsides. Luke: Nodding sympathetically. "Ah... The nectar of the gods." Suddenly another spotlight slams its brilliance into the imposing device. The light reflects a red glow into the faces of the two men standing before it. A quiet tension returns to the arena. Arthur looks up at the daunting machine and begins to feel more heat building in the heavy atmosphere. Luke: "Go ahead Arthur." Arthur moves toward the side of the wheel. He reaches up slowly and notices beads of perspiration building on his wrist. Arthur's intent is distracted by the default segment that sits at the three o'clock position. He grips the wheel with both hands. One above and one just below the dark segment. The glittering key ring is still evident slipped in between the fingers of his left hand. He notices that this hand is obscuring an interesting marking on the higher segment. Just beyond his fingers is an etching that forms a shapely naked woman's silhouette. Across the midriff of the silhouette are bold letters spelling out the intriguing combination of "Marmolada Inc." Luke: Interrupts Arthur's concentration. "Ok Arthur... time to spin..." Arthur pushes the wheel up two clicks of the ratchet just as he did on the first spin. With an almighty effort he sends the heavy cylinder into a clockwise frenzy that makes the ratchet clicks blur into an entrancing buzz. The audience draws collective breath and the customary drum roll then joins in the acoustic accompaniment. The wheel slows and the noise begins to fade. Arthur studiously follows the path of the dark segment. It steadily descends on the right hand side of the wheel. The pace of the rotation keeps diminishing. The dark segment has started it climb. The individual clicks are now audible. Three clicks for each segment. The dark segment is past nine o'clock. The dark segment moves dangerously ever closer to the ratchet. The audience heaves a collective moan of anticipation. Arthur's steely gaze is magnetised by the dark marking. The segment is climbing upon the ratchet. Click... click... click... The first of the dark segment's clicks is snatched by the ratchet. Then the second click brakes the wheel's motion incrementally. Arthur's eyes widen in realisation. The third click is agonising but the wheel is still moving. The ratchet despairingly tries to hang on. Finally the fourth click heralds a wave of relief from Arthur and a shock wave of awe from the shadowy audience. Arthur sinks his face into an open palm. The spotlight on the wheel begins a gradual fade out as a beam of light suddenly shoots across the stage to a partitioned area at the right hand side of the arena. Another heavy light killing black curtain begins to open. In the background a quick solitary piano note is interrupted and usurped by a long electric organ intro and a stark raw drum pulse. Seven raw beats and a foot pumped symbol strafe punctuated by a simple base guitar rift. It's an instantly recognisable tune on the first two beat runs. On the third run the back up singers' words are unmistakeable. Backup Singers: "Hey sister, go sister, soul sister, go sister... Hey sister, go sister, soul sister, go sister..." As the brash sassy "Franklinesque" singer seizes the solo vocals the music's volume fades into the background. Luke steps back into the spotlight. Luke: Projects a strong masculinity in his voice "Well Arthur... do we have a exceptional prize for a man like you..." Arthur looks intently over at the separating curtains. The beaming spotlight reveals an opulent circular bed. It is adorned along its perimeter by three long curved cushions and shrouded by a shining white satin cover. Carmela and Alexia suddenly materialise from the shadow of the wheel. They each take Arthur by an arm and guide him toward the curtained partition that is now almost fully exposed. As they approach the opulent boudoir display, the lights begin to dim. Two coloured light beams begin an exotic movement across the gleaming satin. The music volume builds back up. As Carmela, Arthur and Alexia approach the boudoir their silhouettes form an eerie foreground to the hypnotic blue and red light dance before them. The silhouettes part and then only one is left standing defiant before this display. Suddenly the satin cover begins to stir. The cushions on the opulent bed begin to morph into sleek velvety human forms. Though concealed by the satin cover the curves are unmistakeably feminine. Spellbinding colour highlights reflect off the three emerging vamps. The forms heave and recede to the pulsing raw beat of the music. The bodies slide under the satin and meld into one pulsing creature. The sheets cling tightly to the skin revealing sensuous delights. On a raw crash beat of the drum the back up singers punctuate the rhythmic dance with prophetic words. Backup Singers: "Voulez courquo shez avec tua! Sez vua... Voulez courquo shez avec tua! Bursting horns and the mood change of a soulful trumpet sends the pulsing creature into an amorphic separation. The music begins to fade once again and the powerful feminine figures move closer to the edge of the soft circular nest. The lights change once again. The moving colours are replaced by creamy white backlights. As the music closes the bed cover draws inward to the centre revealing the dark skin of the three satin veiled dancers. They smile treacherously at Arthur who stands frozen in front of the candid scene. Boisterous applause and intense painful whistling fills the arena. Arthur can feel it penetrating his muscles and the heat is becoming even more oppressive. Another spotlight pierces the shadowy arena. It illuminates Luke who is marching toward the boudoir scene from the position of the wheel. Luke greets the stagnant Arthur. He guides him toward the bed. The eerie ebony animated statues move aside to let the men sit on the edge. Luke: "Arthur tonight we have a very special offering." Arthur smiles awkwardly. His focus diverts to one of the three live sculpture's smooth bare back. She changes her posture into a demure suggestive pose. Arthur smiles. Luke: Begins to introduce the second prize. "The Lady Marmolada... the most exclusive... and expensive men's escort club... on this planet." The audience silently awaits the rest of Luke's depiction. Luke: "Membership to this... exclusive club... is one of the most sought after prizes of the rich and famous. Patrons to this club have included Movie Stars, Royalty, Presidents and Despots alike..." The audience continues patient expectation. Luke: "The parent company Marmolada Inc is the highest grossing single service organisation ever listed on the New York Stock Exchange... Last year grossing over three hundred and seventy five million dollars US." Luke holds up a beautiful allegorical certificate. Luke: "Tonight we offer you something special..." Arthur is devoid of any meaningful response. The three sensual creatures sidle close to him and a buzz of anticipation radiates from the hidden audience. Luke: Holds his delivery to draw the most gripping reaction he can extract. "Tonight we offer..." Another excruciating pause, then he fervidly whispers. "The controlling interest in Marmolada Inc." The chant starts slowly and quietly. Audience: "Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke... Luke..." Wild clapping breaks out as Luke hands the certificate to Arthur. Arthur strains his eyes, a reaction to the overwhelming heat that is invading him.