Chapter 266: The Premier Nightclub in North America

The success of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring couldn't have been achieved without the immense popularity of Legolas.

According to media reports, one significant factor behind the film's global success was its ability to draw in female fans from various demographics.

During the premiere weekends worldwide, adult men accounted for 48% of ticket buyers, while adult women comprised 36%—a record high for female moviegoers. The remaining 16% consisted of younger audiences.

This trend was evident in the film's explosive box office performance across different regions. Unlike other Hollywood blockbusters, The Fellowship of the Ring not only garnered a broader appeal but also found an especially devoted audience among women.

In what seemed like the blink of an eye, Martin's portrayal of Legolas overtook Leonardo DiCaprio's Jack as the global heartthrob for women.

With the film's enormous success, the cast and crew became even more motivated to promote it, replacing their fatigue with excitement.

On the plane, Martin sat with an eye mask on, resting quietly.

Nearby, Cate Blanchett and Liv Tyler were chatting away, their laughter occasionally punctuating the hum of the engines.

Orlando Bloom, sitting across the aisle, was listening to music through his headphones. His spirits had lifted recently. Thanks to the film's popularity, more fans were beginning to chant his name at promotional events. Although his following still paled compared to Legolas's, at least he was no longer overshadowed by Liv Tyler.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the captain's voice announced over the intercom, "we are preparing to land at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The temperature outside is XX degrees. For your safety and the safety of others, please remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop. Thank you for flying with us."

Their promotional team had arrived in the world-famous gambling and entertainment hub of Las Vegas.

A city built in the desert, Las Vegas is an oasis in an otherwise barren region.

Historically, the area became a stopping point for travelers because of its natural springs. Officially founded in 1905, it initially flourished during Nevada's gold and silver rushes. However, as the mines dried up, the city faced decline.

Its fortunes turned again with the construction of the Hoover Dam, which brought a steady supply of water and electricity. Then, in 1931, Nevada legalized gambling, transforming Las Vegas into a gambling paradise. Over the next seven decades, it evolved into a globally renowned destination for tourism, shopping, and leisure, earning nicknames like "The Entertainment Capital of the World" and "The Marriage Capital of the World."

Interestingly, despite Asians making up only 10% of the city's population, they dominate the casino floors as dealers—perhaps a nod to their reputed proficiency in mathematics.

Martin and his team checked into the iconic Caesars Palace Hotel, which boasted a casino on its ground floor.

As soon as they dropped off their luggage, the group dispersed, eager to explore. Even Orlando, Cate, and Liv couldn't resist the allure of the casino.

Martin, uninterested in gambling, decided to step out and explore the nightlife instead.

It was already evening, and he set his sights on a nightclub.

Accompanied by his bodyguard, Gordon, Martin headed out. A hotel car was waiting for them at the entrance.

"Where to, sir?" the driver asked politely.

"Marquee Nightclub," Martin replied before turning to Gordon. "Relax, my friend. We're here to have fun. Lighten up."

Gordon sighed. "I'd like to, but I'm worried you'll stir up trouble again."

"Come on! I just want to check out North America's number one nightclub. I promise, no drama. Trust me!"

Gordon wasn't reassured. His boss had a knack for turning the simplest outings into chaotic adventures.

Half an hour later, they arrived at their destination.

"Sir, I'll be nearby. Just give me a call ten minutes before you need me," the driver reminded them before driving off.

Martin and Gordon surveyed the long line outside the club. Without bothering to queue, they headed straight for the entrance.

Two burly bouncers—a white man and a Black man—stood guard at the door.

Nearby, two young women were pleading, "Please, just let us in!"

One of them discreetly pulled out two $10 bills and tried slipping them into the white bouncer's hand.

Bribes were a common tactic to skip the line. At most clubs, attractive women wouldn't even need to pay—they were seen as assets to the party atmosphere.

But this was Las Vegas, where beautiful women were a dime a dozen. Here, they held little sway.

The white bouncer glanced at the bills, then at their modest clothing and accessories. Snorting, he waved them off. "You'll have to wait. The club's at capacity. When people leave, we'll let you in."

The Black bouncer sneered openly. "Twenty bucks? This isn't some cheap dive bar."

Marquee Nightclub, the crown jewel of Las Vegas nightlife, was notorious for its exclusivity. Even a bribe required a minimum of $50 per person.

The two women, clearly uncomfortable, hesitated. It seemed the $20 was all they had.

Suddenly, a sharp snap of fingers broke the tension.

A clear, authoritative voice followed: "Step aside. We're going in."

The white bouncer turned, his eyes narrowing as they locked onto a striking pair of piercing blue eyes.