Overview
A group of characters in Greece become entangled in the search for an ancient statue of a boy on a dolphin, facing moral, legal, and personal dilemmas about heritage, love, and wealth.
The Legend and Discovery
- Local legend describes a golden boy riding a dolphin, granting wishes to those who find him.
- Phaedra discovers evidence of the ancient statue during a dive and dreams of selling it for wealth.
- Dr. Hawkins confirms the artifact’s historical significance, connecting it to a lost cargo ship.
Negotiations and Motivations
- Phaedra attempts to sell the statue to various foreigners, seeking the highest price.
- Several characters, including Dr. Calder and Victor Parmalee, become interested in the statue for personal and professional reasons.
- Tensions arise between exploiting the find for personal gain and preserving Greek cultural heritage.
Complications and Rivalries
- Parmalee and Calder compete to secure the statue, each assembling teams and resources.
- Local allies and family members, including Nico and Riff, become involved, motivated by promises of money, education, and love.
- Phaedra faces pressure from multiple sides over whom to trust and how to proceed.
Legal and Ethical Challenges
- Dr. Calder reminds others that Greek law forbids the export of historical artifacts.
- Parmalee acknowledges the legal risks but continues to pursue the statue covertly.
- Debates ensue about national ownership versus individual profit, reflecting broader questions of cultural responsibility.
Search and Deception
- Several attempts are made to locate and retrieve the statue, with changing alliances and frequent betrayals.
- Riff orchestrates the physical removal and secret transfer of the statue, using local knowledge and subterfuge.
Climax and Resolution
- Greek authorities intervene, arresting Parmalee and foiling the illicit export.
- The characters reflect on their choices, with some regretting lost opportunities and others recognizing the statue’s symbolic value.
- In the end, the artifact remains in Greece, underscoring themes of identity, community, and rightful ownership.
Decisions
- Artifact remains in Greece: The statue is not smuggled out; Greek authorities enforce cultural heritage laws.
- Phaedra chooses integrity over profit: Ultimately, she does not betray her country's interests for personal gain.
Action Items
- TBD – Dr. Calder: Report findings to Greek authorities and continue archaeological work.
- TBD – Nico: Pursue education with new opportunities arising from the events.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- What will become of the statue now that it remains in Greece?
- How will the characters’ relationships change after their conflicting interests are revealed?