That evening, Henry, Sallah, Indy and Selene said their goodbyes to the brothers and thanked them for their help and hospitality and departed St. Paul's Monastery on horseback. It was now dark and they began to head in towards the Temple of the Stars. An hour later, it was now fully dark and the four reached a narrow path and dismounted from their horses. They tied the horse's reins to some posts and began their descent up the hill, towards the temple and a few minutes later they came to a giant temple. It was painted a bluish-black colour and was decorated with gold and silver moons and stars. Indy walked up to the great door at the entrance and the others followed. They tried to open the door, but it wouldn't budge.
"C'mon. Lets try from another entrance", said Indy.
As the four of them wandered around the temple, Selene saw something and called to the others who walked over to her. She pointed up. Above another door was a lever-type switch.
"Wonderful", muttered Henry. "How do we...?"
Indy unfurled his whip and Henry patted him on the shoulder.
"Sorry son. I don't even need to ask, do I?"
Sallah and Selene smiled and Henry stared in amazement as Indy cracked the whip and it the end caught the switch.
How does he do that?Indy tugged on the whip but the switch wouldn't move.
Before anyone could say anything, Indy unfurled the whip and gravity did the rest as it fell to the floor. Indy spotted a beam, slightly lower than the switch and cracked the whip. The end snagged the beam and he tugged on it, testing its strength. Then he climbed up the whip and rested his feet on the beam. He unfurled the whip and walked over to the switch. Indy then pressed the switch and the door opened.
"Well done!" Henry shouted up.
"Indy, are you all right?" asked Sallah.
"Yeah, I'm fine Sallah."
"Right Selene. Looks like were gonna say hi to your boyfriend, Ashraf", he shouted down to her.
Indy turned around slowly and began to make is way down.
"Now son. I'd just like to say that when we were tied up and Ashraf was giving Selene grief, she defended your honour."
"That's right", shouted up Selene.
"She said that you were..."
Selene took over.
"I told him that you were one hundred times more of a man than he'd ever be!" she grinned.
Indy was stunned.
"You did?"
The beam began to creak loudly.
"Ah, Selene. That's great. I'm..." He let out a loud yell.
The beam had given way and as it did, Indy went with it. He fell to the floor and bits of wood and debris flew in all directions.
"Indy!" yelled Selene and Sallah together.
"Indiana!" yelled Henry.
Henry crouched beside his son and as the others did, Selene retrieved Indy's fedora, which had landed by some of the debris. Indy opened his eyes and blinked. A sea of faced filled his vision and Selene ran a hand across his forehead.
"Indy, honey", she said, her eyes full of sympathy.
He could feel himself slipping into darkness and gave into unconsciousness.
Indy could hear voices. His father, Sallah, Selene. He forced himself to open his eyes and blinked. Jones slowly looked around at his surroundings and realised that he was led on some blankets in a dark room which was lit by torches. Selene ran over to him.
"He's awake", she said to the others.
"Selene."
"Oh, Indy. How are you feeling?"
He slowly sat up and gingerly touched the back of his head. A bump.
"Aww, that hurts!" he exclaimed.
Indy stood up and nearly toppled over.
"Woah", said Henry, who came over and steadied him.
"Take it easy son", he smiled. "My god. You've certainly had your fair share of knocks on the head, eh?"
"Yeah, you could say that."
"Still, my boy, at least this time, I wasn't responsible."
Indy offered a lop-sided smile and shook his head.
"Where are we?" he asked.
"In the Temple of the Stars", said Sallah.
"Oh God. How long have I been out?" asked Indy. Then he realised something. "We've got to stop the ritual, now!"
Indy attached the whip to his belt and Selene passed him his fedora.
"Are you all right?" she asked.
"I'll live. Here", he said, placing the hat on her head. "Look after this for me."
She nodded.
Indy, Henry, Sallah and Selene walked out of the room and came to a corridor. As they walked further, they began to hear voices. Indy stopped.
"They're near", whispered Henry.
A great boom echoed through the corridor and Indy broke into a run and the others followed.
"C'mon. We don't have much time!"
They entered a great room; the ceiling was painted a dark colour and was also decorated with moons and stars and at the end of the room was the Benben stone. It was sat upon an altar and in front of it was stood Ashraf, dressed in dark purple robes. He threw his hands in the air and turned to face them. Two men grabbed Selene and she yelled and was dragged over to Ashraf.
"Ah, Ms Rogers."
He ran a hand through her hair and Indy flew at Ashraf and together they fell to the ground. Indy hit Ashraf in the face and Ashraf drew a fist back but Indy anticipated the blow and moved out of the way. Selene grabbed a rock and threw it at Ashraf and he yelled in pain. Two men appeared and Sallah fought with them as another man flew at Henry. Henry pushed the man who fell down and hit his head on the stone floor and was knocked out cold. As Indy unholstered his Smith and Wesson a man grabbed him from behind and the gun fell to the floor. The man pinned Indy's arms behind his back. Ashraf flew at Indy, hitting him in the face and then the stomach. Henry was enraged and raced over to Ashraf. Henry scooped up Indy's gun and grabbed Ashraf by the collar and put the gun to his head as Indy wrestled with the other man.
"All right. That's enough", shouted Henry.
Ashraf head-butted Henry and ran off. Indy was still fighting with the man when Henry threw the gun at Ashraf and it hit him on the head. Henry raced after Ashraf, grabbed him and backhanded him across the face.
"You call yourself an archaeologist?" he spat.
Ashraf motioned to Indy.
"You call him one?"
"How dare you! You see my son over there? He's not just an archaeologist. Oh, he's much more than that."
Indy was stunned and the man took advantage of this and hit him in the face.
"You'll never be as good as him! Not in a thousand years, and you know why?"
Henry punched Ashraf in the stomach and the man crumpled to the ground, unconscious.
"Because you just don't have the guts!"
Indy punched the other man in the jaw and he went out like a light. Sallah and Selene ran over and Henry walked over to Indy and grinned.
"Okay son?"
"Dad, I..."
Henry smiled.
"Well?"
"What you just said. I..."
"I heard what you said", smiled Selene. "That was great Henry."
Sallah smiled.
"Dad, were you just...?" he couldn't quite get out the words.
"Saying that? No son. I meant every word."
Henry walked over to the Benben stone. Indy smiled and followed him.
"Dad. Thanks."
Henry smiled and drew Indy into a hug.
"Ah my son. You've always been so stubborn and determined. But even though, those are good traits to have."
"Dad, do you know something that I don't?"
"Indiana. I've nearly lost you more than once", he emphasised.
Henry released him from his grip.
"But I'll tell you something. I'm really beginning to enjoy these adventures."
"That's great dad."
Henry put a hand on Indy's shoulder.
"All right then, my boy. Shall we take the stone to the museum?"
Three days later they had arrived in Cairo with the Benben stone. It was the early afternoon and Indy, Henry, Sallah and Selene had returned to Sallah's house and Fayah had ran over to Sallah and thrown her arms around him.
"Sallah my dear! Oh, how I have missed you!"
Sallah explained the events from the past week and Fayah was overjoyed that everyone was okay. Well, almost everyone. Indy was still hurting from his recent fall and everyone insisted that he rest before they go to the museum, but he was insistent that they go. Indy and Henry walked together supporting the weight of the stone while Selene and Sallah followed. They went to the curator's office and knocked on the door.
"Come in", said a voice.
Selene opened the door and they were all very surprised to see a familiar person standing there, especially Indy.
"Marcus. What's..."
"Marcus!", said Henry, excited to see his old friend.
"Mr Brody!" exclaimed Sallah, as his face broke out into a wide grin.
Indy and Henry gently place the stone on the desk.
"Marcus", began Indy. "It's great to see you here. But what gives?"
"Henry and Sallah told me that you had a fever. I also heard that Selene had been under the weather and I wondered if I could be of some help. Well, obviously not as it would seem that you've now got the stone. Well done, Indy."
"Marcus, I really think the thanks should go to the others."
Selene stepped forward.
"Oh, I don't know. Indy did his fair share and he rescued me from a harem."
"Really?" asked Brody, curiously. "That sounds very interesting. I am sure you would be so kind as to tell me about that at some stage."
Selene grinned at Indy.
"Oh, don't worry Marcus. I will."
"Indy. I realize that my being here is a little unexpected, but..."
Just then, the curator of the museum came into the room. He was in his mid fifties and dressed in a light cream coloured linen suit.
"Doctor Jones, you found the stone. Wonderful! But right now, well, it seems that we have a big problem."
"Oh?"
Two museum workers came in and both picked up the stone and they proceeded to carry to towards another room as the others followed.
The curator turned to them.
"Someone has stolen the four sacred canopic vases of Tutankhamen", he said anxiously.
"What?!" exclaimed Selene.
He nodded sadly. "I'm afraid so."
"My God", whispered Henry.
"This is terrible", said Sallah.
Indy turned to him.
"Sallah. Are you busy for the next few days?"
Everyone returned to Sallah's house and Fayah ushered them inside to the veranda where they sat down. Sallah had asked a few contacts if they had heard anything that would point to the whereabouts of the vases.
"Well, I'm certainly surprised to see you here, Marcus", said Henry.
"Yes Henry, I know. Well, you see, things are quiet at the museum and when you called to tell me your news, I called Fayah and arranged to meet her at the airport. I knew that Indy would eventually find it, so I took a flight straight away. And I must say, I am very glad that I did."
"So am I. It's good to see you, old boy. And how are you Sallah?"
"I am fine Mr. Brody."
"Selene and Indy. How are you both feeling?" asked Marcus.
"Oh I'm fine now", said Selene. "Indy's not great, though."
She placed a hand on Indy's forehead.
"Hmm, seems okay for now."
"Selene. Don't fuss. I'm fine. I..."
Selene touched the back of his head.
"Ow, Selene. Be careful!"
She smiled at Brody.
"See what I mean?"
"Indiana, I think you really need a holiday", said Marcus.
"Ah yes", began Henry. "During your fever myself and Sallah were discussing things."
"What sort of things?"
"Well…" began Henry.
"You see Indy", said Sallah. "We think it is time that you took a break, and..."
"I see", said Indy. "And you didn't think to tell me this when I came round?"
He looked at Selene.
"Don't look at me like that. I had nothing to do with it."
"She's innocent", said Henry. "We were actually thinking of sending both of you off on a holiday."
Indy smiled.
"I don't think they're ready for a honeymoon just yet", said Fayah, pouring drinks.
"Hah!" exclaimed Sallah, slapping Indy on the back.
Indy laughed and Selene blushed and covered her face with her hands.
Fayah left the table and a moment later she came back followed by a man. He was Egyptian, of medium build and was in his mid-thirties.
"Sallah."
"Faisel", said Sallah, standing up.
"My friend. I have found out the location of the jars. They have been taken to Shebin el Com. You will need to leave very soon if you are to get them. I am not sure if it is true but I think Ashraf intends to sell them."
"Oh no", said Sallah, looking over at the others.
"Thank you Faisel. May God smile upon you."
"And yourself Sallah."
After organizing supplies, camping equipment and horses, Indy, Henry, Sallah, Selene and Marcus set out towards Shebin el Com. Several hours had passed it was just beginning to get dark as they set up camp.
Selene and Henry had set up a campfire while Sallah and Marcus prepared food. Indy had left the camp and from his position, looking through binoculars, could see Ashraf's camp but decided not to mention this to the others. After they had eaten, they stayed up for a while and talked. Marcus and Henry were talking about old times while Sallah and Indy were deep in conversation. Selene smiled; glad to be in the company of such wonderful men. She was beginning to realize that she didn't want to break it off with Indy. She was, well, she had fallen for him. She looked over at him but he was so deep in conversation that he didn't notice. His hazel eyes flickered. She loved those eyes. Sallah said something funny and Indy laughed. She loved to hear him laugh; to watch that fantastic smile of his. She slowly got up and snuck over the other side of the fire. Almost immediately, Henry and Brody stood up. Selene looked over at them suspiciously.
"What? Did I say something wrong? It's not as if I could get a word in edgeways, anyway", she said, a slight smile passed her lips.
"Not at all", said Henry. "Myself and Marcus were always taught to stand up at a table when a lady entered or left the room."
"Oh Henry, that's sweet."
Just then, Indy and Sallah stood up.
Selene rolled her eyes.
"Sorry", said Indy. "Delayed reaction."
Selene laughed.
"Aw, Gentlemen. I'd just like to point out that we're not sat at a dinner table at the moment, but thanks anyway."
The four men sat down and Selene lay a blanket down on the ground.
"Well, I'm going to sleep", she said, turning to them.
"Good night Marcus. Good night Sallah."
"Good night, my dear", replied Marcus.
"Yes, good night", said Sallah.
Selene smiled.
"Good night, Doctor Jones."
"Good night, Selene", said Indy and Henry simultaneously.
Selene laughed and Indy and Henry looked at each other and smiled. She then lay down and covered herself with the blanket and closed her eyes.
Sallah and Marcus retired for the evening and Henry stoked the fire with a stick. Indy got up and went over to Selene, sat down beside her and caressed her forehead, careful not to disturb her.
Henry went over to him.
"Ah, she looks so peaceful", he said.
"Yeah. You know dad, she's been a great help to me."
"I know son."
"I really don't know what I'd do without her."
"She makes quite a companion, doesn't she?"
Indy smiled.
"Yeah, she does."
"My boy, I've seen that look before."
"What look?" asked Indy as they stood up.
"That look in your eye, Indiana. This one is really something. Selene is a very special lady."
"Yeah. And guess who she's stuck with?"
Henry looked at him.
"Don't sell yourself short, son."
Henry lay a blanket down on the ground.
"Ah, but now it's time to sleep."
Indy yawned.
"Come on son."
Indy removed his hat, jacket and weapons and lay these down beside the blanket. Indy lay down on the blanket and Henry covered Indy with a thick blanket and tucked him in.
"Goodnight Indiana."
Indy smiled and closed his eyes. He felt like a child again.
"Goodnight dad."
Henry stood up and watched over his son.
"Ah, she's very lucky", whispered Henry. "She's dating you", he smiled.
Henry stood there for a moment, watching his son.
"Oh son", he whispered. "I'm so proud of you."
Henry lay down on a blanket, covered himself with one and drifted off to sleep.
Indy woke up, and slowly rose. When he was sure that everyone was asleep, he put on his fedora and jacket, put on his gun belt and attached the whip to it. He holstered his Smith and Wesson and slowly walked over to the horses and untied one of the animals reins. Selene stirred slightly thinking that she'd heard something but then decided it was nothing and drifted back to sleep. Again, another noise. Slowly, she opened her eyes and could just make out a figure mounting a horse.
It was Indy.
Where is he going?
She closed her eyes and drifted.
A few minutes later, Indy was riding towards the camp that he had found earlier. He pulled on the horse's reins and the horse stopped, following his command. He dismounted the horse and tied the reins to a tree. Indy then crept toward the campsite and was unaware of three men behind him who reached out and grabbed him and dragged him into one of the tents. He tried to throw a punch but one of the men blocked it and one of the other men hit him in the stomach. Indy coughed and the men dragged him to a chair, sat him down and tied his hands behind his back.
"Someone get Ashraf! Quickly!" shouted one of them.
"He's gone out. Don't know when he'll be back", one of them replied.
They left the tent.
Oh great, thought Indy, longingly thinking about the warm blanket that his father had covered him with.
It was an hour later when Selene Rogers woke up and sat up. She looked around.
Where is Indy? She thought. She got up and realized that he had not returned.
Oh no. Indy, where are you?Selene searched the camp but Indy wasn't anywhere to be found. She went over to the supplies and walked a few meters away from the camp, looked through the binoculars and spotted another camp. She returned to the camp and searched around in the supplies and found a gun. God, I hate these things. She loaded the gun, took a horse and followed the path down to the camp, dismounted and tied her horse's reins to a post next to Indy's horse. Selene slowly walked over to the campsite and snuck around by the tents. There didn't seem to be anyone about, then she heard something.
"You!" yelled a voice.
Selene turned around and followed the direction that the voice was coming from.
"Damn you Jones! Why must you interfere with..."
Selene grabbed a rock and gingerly pushed aside an opening in one of the tents.
Indy! Her heart leapt.
He was tied to a chair and he was injured. Not too badly, but he had looked better.
Ashraf. Ooh, what a horrible man.Ashraf hit Indy across the face and Indy tried no to flinch. Selene slowly slipped through the opening and hit Ashraf hard across the head with the rock.
"God, I hate him!" she said angrily, as he crumpled to the floor.
"Selene!" Indy grinned, despite his pain.
Selene ran over to him and hugged him.
"Oh Indy."
She untied his bounds and helped him to stand. Indy gingerly touched his stomach and winced and Selene took his hand and let him outside.
"Come on Indy. Let's get you back to the camp."
Indy nodded and Selene led him to the horses and tied their reins together.
Indy smiled.
"You, Selene Rogers are one hell of a resourceful lady."
Selene helped Indy onto the horse and got on the front. She gently kicked the horse and Indy put his arms around her, leaning his head on her back, allowing himself to rest for a few moments.
"You okay Indy?" she asked.
"Yeah", he said sleepily.
They reached the campsite and Indy and Selene dismounted the horse. Selene tied the horse's reins to the posts, took Indy's hand and prepared a bed for him. Selene took the whip and holster from Indy, helped him out of his jacket and took the fedora from him, placing these on the ground. Indy looked into her eyes and kissed her. A moment later, he pulled away and hugged her.
"Selene", he whispered. "Thanks for rescuing me. I really appreciate it. You should have seen the look on Ashraf's face when you hit him", he laughed.
Selene put a finger to Indy's lips and helped him to lie down.
"I think he's got a crush on you, Selene."
"That's not a nice thought at all." She paused. "Ooh. I hate him! He's horrible!" the tone in her voice evident.
Selene covered Indy with the blanket and tucked him in.
Indy smiled.
"I'm real glad that I'm not him then."
Indy closed his eyes and she put her mouth to his ear.
"I could never hate you, Doctor Jones. You're far too adorable", she said, kissing him on the cheek.
Indy smiled dreamily and instantly fell asleep.
The next morning, Sallah, Henry, Selene and Marcus were up eating breakfast and Indy was still asleep.
"He looks so peaceful", said Henry.
"I know", said Selene. "I really don't want to wake him."
After breakfast, Selene had told everyone that the night before, Indy had gone out to find the vases and she had gone after him and rescued him.
"Ah, he never changes", said Henry.
"Henry. It is Indy's way. He has always been like that", said Sallah.
"If only his students could see him now", said Marcus.
Selene smiled.
"Selene. I would very much like to hear about when Indy rescued you from a harem", said Marcus.
Indy woke up and could hear voices. He then realized that the conversation was about him. He kept his eyes closed.
"Well", said Selene. "Ashraf kidnapped me and took me to his harem and a while later someone, who I actually believed to be a woman, dressed in a black burqa, rescued me and we were riding. The person stopped the horse, got off and revealed themselves to be none other than our Indiana Jones!"
"I see. You are lucky Selene."
"I sure am"
"Yes. Not many men would do that for a lady, that is, dress up as a woman."
"I know."
"And you should have seen her face. It was a picture", said a familiar voice.
"Huh?" exclaimed Selene.
She looked over at Indy who had his eyes open.
"Indy. You're awake", said Marcus. "Selene was just telling me about..."
"The harem", finished Indy as he sat up. "Yeah, I know."
He glanced over at Selene.
"You were awake?" asked Selene.
Indy smiled.
"Yeah, for most of it."
Indy stood up and rubbed his stomach slightly.
Selene walked over to him.
"How are you feeling after last night?"
"Ah yes", said Henry. "Selene tells us that last night you went out by yourself to find the vases."
"Yeah I did."
"Indy", began Sallah.
"Son, that was very dangerous. You could have been seriously hurt."
"Dad, c'mon", said Indy, gathering up his things.
Henry winked at Selene and smiled. She glanced over at him and gave him a look. Henry, don't you dare!
"I'm serious son."
"Dad, relax."
"Son, please don't do that again."
Indy looked at Henry.
"Do what?"
Selene couldn't help it. She started laughing.
Indy looked at them both.
"Ah, for cryin' out loud!"
Henry looked at Selene.
"I nearly had him then Selene. You gave the game away."
"Sorry Henry."
Indy glanced at Selene.
"You think it's funny do ya?!"
Selene laughed and the others also laughed. She turned around and Indy grabbed the whip, cracked it and gently snagged Selene around the waist and she yelped in surprise. He reeled her in.
"See. I said you were the master, didn't I?" she said.
He unfurled the whip from her and attached it to his belt.
"Thanks for last night", he said kissing her.
She sighed dreamily and buried her head in his chest and he caressed her hair.
After packing up the camp they went to find Ashraf's campsite but it was no longer there. They then headed towards Shebin el Com, parked the jeep and got out and some time later, they came to a narrow passageway which reminded Indy of the passageway to the temple where they had found the Holy Grail years before. They came to a vast building, similar looking to a coliseum except this building had a roof. They dismounted their horses and walked cautiously into the building. No-one spoke for a moment. Indy came to a door and to his surprise, it opened. This is too easy, he thought. He then stopped for a moment.
"Well", whispered Henry. "What is it?"
"I've got a bad feeling about this", said Indy as he walked through the entrance and the others followed. They came to a great hall and to the right of the hall stood a giant staircase. Several men dressed in robes stood, facing an altar and Indy crept behind a wall and the others followed. Indy unholstered his Smith and Wesson, ready for action. Selene smiled admiringly at Indy. She always loved the way that he was so calm in these kinds of situations. And now all she wanted was for them to get the canopic vases and go home, so that herself and Indy could go on a long vacation. She smiled and gently touched the back of his neck and he turned round and smiled slightly. Indy spotted Ashraf walking toward them. He was dressed in purple robes and was within a few feet of them. Indy passed the Smith and Wesson to Selene and she looked at him in surprise. Is he kidding? I can't use that. He sighed and unhitched the bullwhip and passed it to her.
Are you sure? he mouthed.
She nodded and passed the gun back to him.
Ashraf spotted them.
Selene fumbled with the whip and went to crack it but the handle fell out of her hand and the whip fell to the floor. Ashraf yelled and a few men ran over, grabbed Henry, Sallah, Marcus and Indy and Ashraf strode over to Selene and grabbed her by the shoulders and put a hand to her chin. Indy's Smith and Wesson was taken from him and passed to Ashraf.
"So, Miss Rogers. Have you decided to return to me?"
Selene glared at him.
"Never!"
"Leave her alone!" yelled Indy.
Ashraf walked over to Indy, hitting him across the face. Indy tried to hit back but his hands were pinned behind his back.
"Damn you, Ashraf", shouted Henry. "Can't you see, man. Selene is just not interested..."
"Shut up, Jones!" he snapped.
He glared at Indy.
"You want the vases? All right. I'll make a trade with you."
Ashraf looked over at Selene.
"My God", whispered Henry. "You're serious."
Selene glared at Ashraf, stunned.
Indy had to stop himself from flying at the Egyptian.
"You don't get it, do you?" yelled Indy. "Selene isn't just something to be exchanged. She's a person, a lady. And not just an ordinary lady."
Indy glanced at Selene and smiled, and she smiled back.
Sweet man.
"And I'll tell you something else. She's special. Something you wouldn't have a clue about."
Selene smiled again and Indy gave her a fantastic smile. Her heart jumped momentarily.
"And I quite agree", said an unfamiliar voice.
Everyone turned around and stood there was a man. He was European, tall and dressed in casual khakis, holding a gun. Ashraf looked upset as if he didn't want the man to be here.
"Mind telling us who you are?" asked Indy
"My name is Edwards. And you must be the famous Doctor Jones, archaeologist and adventurer. Ah yes. I have followed your career closely."
Edwards looked at Henry.
"And of course, your father, Dr. Henry Jones Senior."
Henry looked at Indy.
"Well, at least he's heard of us, right boy?"
Indy smiled grimly.
Edwards strode over to Ashraf.
"Where are they?"
"What?"
"The canopic vases, of course. They will make an excellent addition to my collection."
Ashraf pointed to Indy and the others.
"I hid them here. Do you seriously think that I would leave them lying around for these people to find when I..."
"Take me to them."
"That will not be easy."
Edwards sighed.
"What! Why?"
"There is a maze, a labyrinth, if you will. I had a key and put them in a room where a secret door leads. I locked the door, but I have now appeared to have lost the key. The only other way through is down the stairs and it is..."
Edwards called some men over.
"Search him."
"But..." Ashraf began to protest.
"Forget it", he told them. "I'll do it myself."
Edwards aimed at Ashraf and shot him in the heart. The man fell to the floor, dead.
Selene screamed and the man that was holding Indy loosened his grip in surprise. Jones took advantage of this grabbed him, hitting him in the mouth and then flew at the other men who were holding the others. Henry and Sallah fought with the men as Selene ran over to Indy and threw her arms around him. She sobbed and he gently caressed her hair.
"It's okay honey", he soothed.
"I think not, Doctor Jones", said Edwards
Now what? thought Selene.
Edwards had searched Ashraf.
"It appears that he was right. He has lost the key."
Edwards pointed a gun at Indy.
"I need you to get the vases for me."
"It's too dangerous", yelled one of the men, who was lying on the floor. He touched his side and gasped in pain.
"The labyrinth is full of dangerous vapours."
"Oh no", muttered Henry.
Everyone looked upset. Selene wanted to cry.
"What kind of vapours?" she asked.
"Dangerous ones. And there are things. Very bad things in there and he may not make it out alive."
"Okay", said Indy. "I told you I had a bad feeling about this place."
"No", said Henry, walking over to him. "Son, I don't want to lose you."
"Dad I..."
"No, listen to me Junior, Indiana, son." His voice became very serious. "It's too dangerous."
"C'mon dad. I'll be okay. I'll get the vases and then..."
"Indy", said Selene. "Just be careful. And after this, I'm afraid we all must insist that you take a long vacation."
He smiled.
"Okay, I'm not gonna argue with that."
"Good luck, Doctor Jones", she said, kissing him on the cheek and handed him the whip. Edwards pointed the gun at Indy.
"I'll take that", he said, pointing to the whip.
"No", yelled Selene. "You can't! Indy needs it."
Edwards grabbed it from them and Selene glared at Edwards,
"If he dies, I swear..."
Sallah hugged him.
"Good luck Indy. If you do not make it out alive..."
"Sallah. I'll make it."
Marcus hugged him fiercely.
"Marcus..."
"Indiana. If something should happen, I want to tell you I will miss you a great deal and you have been the best colleague I have ever had the pleasure of working with."
Marcus sighed.
"And Indy, you will be greatly missed by everyone at the university."
"Hey Marcus, thanks for the sentiments, but I'll be okay."
When Marcus didn't move, Indy smiled.
"I think you can let me go now."
"Oh, I'm sorry Indy."
Sallah and Marcus stepped back and Indy smiled.
"Marcus, I really appreciate it."
"Move!" barked Edwards.
Indy walked over to the stone steps and began to walk down them. He came to a set of double doors and pushed them open and entered the labyrinth. It seemed that the vapours had not yet started, but he didn't know how long he would have until they did. As he wandered through the maze, he tried to go by his instincts. He heard something, and looked around. Nothing. He hated being without his weapons. He walked further and began to feel light-headed. He wasn't sure whether it was hunger, fatigue or the vapours, perhaps all three. He walked on and heard a screeching sound coming from above and looked up. He saw what appeared to be a dragon flying around, circling the air. He continued on, pretty sure that the vapours were doing their job. He saw a figure moving towards him. A very familiar figure.
"Marion. What are you doing here?"
She just smiled at him and disappeared.
"What the…?" he ran a hand over his face.
"Gotta get outta here", he muttered to himself, trying to remember why he was here in the first place.
It was at this point that he was now beginning to feel very dizzy but despite this, he continued on, trying to focus his mind on where he was going. Then he saw something. A bird. An eagle. His spiritual guardian and protector. It soared around the maze and Indy stumbled about, and did his best to follow it and then he came to a straight path. Indy followed the path and saw two men stood side by side. They were dressed in attire that Indy recognised, dressed exactly like the Thuggee guards. Okay, Jones. They're not real, They... One flew at Indy, nearly knocking him to the ground. The man hit him in the stomach and then the face. Okay, these guys are real all right. Indy fought back and the two fell to the floor. Indy grabbed the man and then the man disappeared and Indy was left holding the man's clothes.
What's going on?He stood up, wobbling slightly.
Ok Jones, it's time for that vacation.
Indy gasped for breath and he felt very dizzy. He walked further and then came to some steps, which led to an altar. On the altar stood a box with the four sacred canopic vases of Tutankhamen. I sure hope this is not another hallucination, he thought. Indy staggered over to the vases and picked them up. He opened the door and waiting outside of the room were Henry, Selene, Sallah and Marcus who smiled with relief when they saw him. Indy felt light headed and gasped. He carefully set the vases on the ground and collapsed onto the floor. Everyone ran over, crouching to the ground as Selene cradled Indy's head.
"Oh, Indy", she said sympathetically, caressing his forehead. "I was beginning to get worried. For a moment I thought you weren't going to make it."
Sallah and Marcus looked over at Indy, concerned about his current state.
"Oh please", muttered Edwards.
Henry stood up and flew at Edwards and two men came over and dragged Henry away.
"What have you done to my son?" he yelled. "You could have killed him!"
"Dad", muttered Indy.
He could feel himself drifting into unconsciousness.
Selene had hidden the vases in a secret room that she had found. She did not want to risk Edwards getting his hands on them.
Selene, Sallah and Marcus stayed with Indy for a while and he slowly opened his eyes.
"Indy. How are you feeling?" asked Marcus.
"I've felt better Marcus."
Selene hugged Indy and helped him to stand. He was still feeling dizzy and the others steadied him.
"Indy, my friend. Are you all right?"
"I'll live Sallah. Hey, where's dad?"
Marcus stepped over to Indy.
"Indy, when you came out of the labyrinth your father was very angry. He went for Edwards and two men dragged him off."
"I remember now. Come on. We've got to find him."
Indy began to walk around the corridors and they came to another great room with a large pit in the centre. Henry was led down on the ground and despite his dizziness, Indy ran over to him and crouched down beside him.
"Dad!"
Indy looked up and saw Edwards standing there.
"What have you done my father?"
"Ah, a simple poison to keep him quiet. He asked far too many questions."
Indy had never seen Marcus so angry.
Marcus glared at Edwards.
"A simple poison? What do you think you are doing? This is madness!"
Selene and Sallah ran over.
"Is there an antidote?" asked Indy desperately.
"Not as such."
"And what do you mean by that?" asked Sallah, his tone furious.
"Well, let me see. There is something which might work which could perhaps save his life."
Edwards pointed to the other side of the room.
"Over there are some herbs and plants which might work.
"Might work?" asked Selene, her voice full of rage. "God, I thought that Ashraf was a nasty piece of work, but you! Ooh..."
Selene caressed Henry's forehead. He looked very pale.
"You may need this", said Edwards, tossing the whip to Indy who caught it. He unfurled it as Selene walked over to him.
"Indy. I know that you have to do this. But even if you make it over that pit…" she looked at the beams which didn't look very secure. "…you may not make it back."
Indy turned to her.
"Selene, I know it's dangerous, but I have to do this. Please don't try to stop me."
"I wouldn't dare", she said, clasping a hand on his shoulder. "Good luck."
Selene looked into his eyes. Indy was about to start across the pit, when she grabbed his arm and pulled him gently toward her.
"Indiana Jones. I think that you're such a wonderful man."
Before Indy could say anything, Selene kissed him passionately. He pulled away and he gasped.
"That's great. We can continue this discussion later. Right now, were running out of time."
Selene nodded and Sallah and Marcus glanced down at Henry, who was muttering something.
Indy cracked the whip and it snagged a beam from the ceiling. He swung over to the other side of the pit, and as he did, the beam broke and he landed on the floor with a thud, the whip still in his hand.
"Are you okay Indy?" yelled Selene.
"Yeah. Just great!" he yelled back.
Indy quickly found some herbs and put these in his sack and tossed it over to the other side of the pit. Selene grabbed the sack and opened it, taking out the herbs. Sallah grabbed his canteen and mixed the herbs with the water, shaking the canteen about. Marcus supported Henry's head and gave this to Henry and he took a few sips.
"Henry, drink", encouraged Marcus.
Indy surveyed the size of the pit. Okay, Jones. This is gonna be close! He coiled the whip and attached it to his belt.
Oh no, thought Selene.
"Indy, what are you doing?"
"I'm gonna have to jump."
Then they heard something. A noise, which gradually began to get louder. A great rumbling sound erupted through the room, which began to shake violently. Edwards, who had been stood nearby, fell to the floor and the dagger that he had been holding clattered to the ground, falling out of his grasp. Suddenly, a great roar echoed through the room and the room began to shake more violently now. There was a great roar and out of the pit emerged a great winged monster. It stood at least thirty feet tall, and resembled a gargoyle.
Selene screamed and everyone gasped in terror at what they saw. Indy also stared. The monsters glowing red eyes reminded Indy of a demon and looked into its eyes, trying not to show any fear.
"My God, it's horrible!" yelled Selene. "Indy, what are you going to do?"
"I don't know!" he yelled. "I'll think of something."
Indy knew that he didn't have a chance against the creature and as its hand came toward Indy, the archaeologist stared into its eyes, refusing to give into fear. Selene looked horrified as the monster picked up Indy by its arms and shook him. Indy's life flashed before his eyes as it shook him some more. Selene screamed as the monster threw Indy across the pit. Indy landed with a thud on the ground, sprawled on his back. The monster then picked up Edwards and he screamed violently as he was thrown into the pit. Henry's eyes jolted open. Something was very wrong. Marcus stared at the monster and spotted Edwards's dagger led on the floor. He went over to it, moving as fast as he could and picked it up. He looked at the monster as it roared loudly and looked up at the ceiling. Marcus ran over to the creature and thrust the dagger into its belly. The creature writhed about and roared in pain. Selene hit one of the men over the head and Sallah hit another in the face. Suddenly, the demon exploded and as it did, the room reverberated with the noise. The rest of Edwards's men screamed and ran off in terror.
Then there was silence.
Indy was still led on the ground and Henry got up and the others joined him. Henry walked over to Indy. There was no movement and everyone looked at each other, unsure what to say. Henry reached Indy and crouched down beside him. Henry felt for a pulse, heartbeat or breath.
Nothing.
Slowly, Henry turned to the others.
"My God. He's dead."
The others gasped and left Henry for a moment with his son.
"Indiana", sobbed Henry. "My only son. You sacrificed yourself for me so that I could live. My God. I'm so sorry. I should have told you sooner. Indy, I'm very proud of you. I always have been."
Henry turned to the others and they staggered over. Selene collapsed on the floor in floods of tears and Henry put his arm around her and comforted her.
"I can't believe that Indiana is dead", said Marcus, his voice full of grief.
"No, it is not true", whispered Sallah in a hushed tone.
"We may be able to help", said a voice. They all turned round to look at a man who was stood. He had a strange accent and dressed in strange robes. There were also two other men dressed similarly stood behind him. They stepped forward and picked up Indy's body and took him to a nearby room and the others followed, looks of confusion on each of their faces. The room was lit with candles and incense and only the sound of Selene sobbing could be heard. Everyone was completely stunned. No one said anything. Everyone sat down on nearby stone benches as the men placed Indy onto a cot. One of the men walked over to Selene, Henry, Sallah and Marcus.
"When he wakes up he may forget some events from the past day or so."
"But I don't understand", said Henry.
The man smiled.
"All will be revealed soon", was all that he said.
Indy opened his eyes. He was in a bright room and slowly got up. He didn't hurt at all. In fact, he felt invigorated and refreshed. He now realised that he was in a garden which looked exactly like the Dhakla Oasis. He heard someone call his name. He walked further to the voice and a female form came into view.
Indy blinked. He couldn't believe it.
"Mom?"
Anna came over to him and smiled. Indy threw his arms around her.
"Oh Henry. My little boy."
"Mom. Is it really you?"
Tears began to run down his cheeks.
"Yes, my son. It's me."
Indy drew away. She looked the same age that she did when she had died. In fact, she looked radiant.
"Mom, I almost hate to ask, but am I…dead?"
She smiled slightly.
"No, my son. You are not dead."
Indy could not believe how well his mother looked.
"Mom. You look great."
She ran a hand through his hair.
"Thank you. So do you. I have watched you for many years, Indiana."
"You have?"
Indy sighed.
"Mom. There are some things which I'm not very..."
"Son. I want to tell you..." she paused. "Oh son, you must return to them. You don't have much time."
She hugged him.
"Son I am so proud of you. Selene was right."
Anna took Indy's hands in hers.
"You have grown up to be a wonderful man."
He blinked.
"Thanks mom."
"And I know you will continue to do great things."
Indy was speechless.
Somewhere in the distance, he could hear his name being called.
"Go to them. Tell your father I miss him very much."
He nodded.
"Mom, I don't want to leave."
"I know. But you must return. Indiana, The world has always needed a hero and that is why you must go back."
"Mom..."
"Son. Return to them. Selene is a lovely woman. Take care of her."
"I will."
He blinked.
He was now led on a cot in a room lit with candles.
Henry, Sallah, Marcus and Selene were sat nearby on a bench, grieved for what seemed like an eternity.
"He's awake", said one of the men.
"Huh?" gasped Selene.
She leapt to her feet and helped Henry to get up. Sallah and Marcus stood up and when they saw Indy awake everyone made their way over to him. Henry hugged Indy in a deep embrace and Indy was confused and bewildered. Selene cried with laughter.
"My boy! Please don't do that to me! I thought I'd lost you again!"
"What are you talking about? What's going on?"
Selene smiled and Henry gave her some room as she hugged him.
"Indy, sweetheart. You're alive. Oh, I'm so relieved!"
Sallah and Marcus also hugged Indy and he gasped.
"Indy my friend!" exclaimed Sallah. "By the Gods, I'm so pleased you're not dead!"
"Okay. Would somebody please tell me what's going on?" asked Indy.
"Indy", began Marcus. "Thank goodness you're all right. You may not believe it but..."
Henry took over.
"Son, well. The thing is..."
"I think I died", said Indy, as he tried to stand up. Everyone gasped as they helped him to stand.
"My God", muttered Henry.
"But how?"
Indy turned to him.
"Dad, I know this sounds crazy but, well, I saw..." he swallowed. "I saw mom. She's okay."
Henry's eyes welled up with tears.
"Dad, she really misses you."
"Oh Indiana."
Henry embraced his son, and after he released his grip, Indy went to find his things as Selene and Sallah collected the hidden canopic jars. Indy found his belongings, which were on a bench and he put his jacket on. Henry walked over to him.
"What else did she say, son?"
"Well, she said that she..."
Indy couldn't quite get the words out.
"She's proud of you", said Henry, clasping a hand on Indy's shoulder and looking at his son. "And so am I son."
He walked off and joined the others, leaving Indy stood there with his mouth slightly open. Selene glanced at Indy and walked over to him.
"Why, Doctor Jones. I believe you're speechless."
He nodded and smiled.
"You have no idea."
Indy attached the whip to his belt and holstered his gun. Indy then put his hat on.
They went to thank the men that had saved Indy's life, but try as they might, could not find them anywhere.
"That is strange", said Marcus.
"Very", said Sallah.
They walked out of the building and found their horses and as they rode out Henry looked at Marcus.
"Well done, Marcus. A fine job."
Marcus smiled.
"Oh really Henry. It was nothing."
"What's this?" asked Indy.
"Marcus killed the demon with Edwards' dagger."
Indy smiled.
"You're kidding! Marcus, that's great."
"Oh well", he said. "You know how it is."
Selene giggled and Sallah laughed.
"So, what happened to Edwards?" asked Indy.
"Oh, the demon killed him", said Selene, as if it were an everyday occurrence.
Sallah rode on.
"'Come on my friends. Back to Cairo!"
Selene caught up with Indy.
"So, tell me Professor. Is this the most exhilarating adventure you've ever been on?"
Henry caught up with them.
"No", said Henry. "He had an adventure once where he rescued a lady from a harem. Ah, he was always good at rescuing people", he said, riding on.
Selene smiled.
"Gee, I really hope that one doesn't get round the campus", said Indy.
Selene laughed and Brody rode on and caught up with Sallah.
When they arrived in Cairo they had returned the vases to the museum and the curator was ecstatic and thanked Indy and the others. Fayah was delighted when they returned to Sallah's house and she threw her arms around Sallah. Everyone was exhausted and Fayah offered drinks to everyone and later, when they finally said goodbye, Sallah embraced Indy in a fierce hug.
"My friend. It has been a great adventure. As always I will miss you a great deal."
He let Indy go.
"And Henry, I will miss you too. Brody as well and not to mention the beautiful Selene."
"Thanks for all your help, Sallah", said Indy.
Selene hugged Sallah and kissed him on the cheek.
"It has been very nice meeting you."
"The pleasure was all mine", he replied.
Sallah glanced at Indy.
"Take care of him."
Selene smiled.
"I will."
They left Sallah's house and headed toward the airport, exhausted but happy.
"Well son", said Henry. "You succeeded. Even though the artefacts are not coming with us, you did it."
Indy turned to them.
"Ah, I couldn't have done it without your help", he told them.
Selene hugged Indy and they stepped onto the plane.
"Oh, I don't know. You did a great job. Just wait until your students hear about this one!
They arrived in New York a day later and Selene returned to work as did Marcus and Henry. Indy was exhausted and slept for a couple of days and Marcus had let the university know that Indy would be returning as soon as he was able.