TWENTY THREE

The car rolled smoothly on the driveway which snaked a circular route towards an austere building that turned out to be another security outpost.  There they went through a second security check where Thad presented his invitation to two men in long coats and uttered the password again before they cleared the vehicle to continue.  Thaddeus made out the majestic castle that occupied the distant end of the driveway.  The building had impressive grandeur and opulence.  Greek columns lined the front, looking like the Acropolis; bright lights lit the compound with a dazzling display.  The forecourt was littered with limousines, Aston Martins, Bentleys and other exotic wheels.  The vehicle Thaddeus was in pulled around a fountain circle in the forecourt and someone came and opened the door for him.  The man said good evening and demanded his invitation card of which Thaddeus then parted with it.  The man handed him a face mask to wear