Part I, The Prosperteer: Chapters 1 - 3 Summary

October 10, 1989

Key West, Florida

Raymond LeBaron is an extremely wealthy publishing magnate who develops an interest in the ZMC-2 Zeppelin he refurbishes and restores to flying condition. He then learns to pilot the unusual aircraft. After a year, his interest in the blimp wanes, then waxes when he is introduced to the prospect of treasure hunting with the blimp. The slow pace of the aircraft makes it ideal to search for sunken ships. On October 10 he, copilot Joe Cavilla, and treasure hunter Buck Caesar take off on a treasure hunting venture. About six hours into the venture, radio contact ends abruptly.

The president of the U.S. is approached during his weekly golf game by an impersonator of his caddy. He is threatened with a bomb. This is designed to force the President...