The Mystery of the Ark Chapters 1 to 13

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Posted by Tessa from ns2.statefarm.com on March 09, 2000 at 12:45:18:

THE MYSTERY OF THE ARK


Prologue
1936
“You will pay for this, Jones!” René Belloq yelled as he turned to dust.
Indy and Marion kept their eyes shut until there was silence. Indy peeked and saw no one there. The rope that tied him and Marion had distingrated.
It’s over, Indy thought; It’s finally over.

Chapter 1
June 1986
A woman was teaching her archeology class on the warm day at the Sorbonne. Her French casually rolled off her tongue as if she was a native. The woman smiled, pushed her glasses back, and said in French, “That will be all. Til next time.”
The students left in hurry, as if to escape the professor. The men stared at her with longily as the woman smiled and shook her head. For a woman of 33, she had been through a rough time, although no one knew the details – her relationship with an archeologist that left her alone with two young children. She sighed, grabbed her briefcase, and headed to her office,
“Bon jour,” she said to her secretary as she opened the door to her private office.
She looked at the mail on her desk and saw a letter that she opened with delight – the one from her father.
“My child:
Will be in Paris on the 12th. We can tour the campus grounds and rekindle some memories. Love, Dad.”
“Dear old Dad,” the woman said with a smile. Her father was a legend for his historical and religious artifacts. Only close people knew who she really was – in her profession and academic worlds she was known as Alexandra J. Stephens, renowned scholar of archeology. But to her family and close friends, she was still Lauren Jones, daughter of archeologist Indiana Jones. She resembled her father to their hair, clothing, and archeological styles. But there is where the similarities ended and thus Dr. Stephens was born.
She laughed to herself and said, “Til tomorrow, Dad.”

Lauren arrived at the airport for her father’s arrival. She spotted the familiar fedora and ran to him,
“Dad” as she hugged him, “It’s good to see you.”
Indy smiled at his youngest child, “Laurie, you didn’t have to come get me…”
“Nonsense,” she cried, “It gave me the excuse to escape reality.”
Indy couldn’t help but laugh at her. She was too much like him, he realized. It was not a surprise she pursued archeology, even though he forbade her too. He clasped his daughter’s shoulder and said,
“Now, let’s go and see your two rascals.”
“And they are anxious to see you too,” agreeing as they walked to her car. Lauren’s two children; Jack, 8, and Michaela, 5; were her pride and joy. Indy loved them dearly and missed them.
A man watched them from the distance as he pounded a fist in the air, “Til we meet again, Dr. Jones.”

Chapter 2
Lauren got her father settled in her house over looking the Seine. Indy looked around the house with amazement and said, “You’ve done wonders, child.”
“Thanks, Dad,” touching the banister lightly, “I tried my best.”
Indy was about to say something when he heard, “Grandpa!”
Jack rushed to him as Michaela watched from Melanie’s, the nanny’s, side. Indy hugged his grandson and looked over to his granddaughter,
“Micki, don’t I get a hug?”
Michaela smiled shyly and ran to him, arms outstretched. Seeing Micki reminded Indy of Lauren and Jack looked like his father, his former colleague, it brought tears in his eyes as Lauren said,
“Don’t get too sentimental, Dad. It will ruin your image.”
Indy laughed and said, “What image?”
Lauren couldn’t help but smile, “The rogue and famous archeologist Indiana Jones, reduced to tears? Come on.”
Indy chuckled and said, “You’re too much like your mother that way.”
Michaela ran into her mother’s arms and talked excitedly in a combination of English and French. Melanie laughed and said, “I will prepare dinner, Mademoiselle Jones.”
“Merci, Melanie,” Lauren called out.
Indy smiled and looked at his daughter, “We have the good life.”
“Because we have each other,” Lauren said, “And Rebecca, Eric and Michael…”
Indy nodded and grinned. Rebecca, 53, was Indy’s stepdaughter and lived in New York with him, with her husband and two children. Eric, 35, was living in a rural town in Poland, where he was the local doctor. Michael, also 35, was living near Indy and president of their mother’s music company. They had all married, had children, and were happy. Except for Lauren, who had two children without a benefit of a husband and her happiness died when her childrens’ father did, Indy mused.
“I am happy, Dad,” Lauren said as if she was reading his thoughts.
Indy smiled and said, “I know, dear, I know.”

Chapter 3
Lauren came home in a happy mood two days later. Indy looked up from his reading and said,
“You’re in a good mood, princess.”
“Oh – I,” blushing as she laughed.
Indy smiled and said, “Who is he?”
Lauren studied his face and said, “Who’s who?”
“Come off it,” Indy said, tossing the paper aside, “The man you’ve been seeing for the past two months,” seeing the confused look on his daughter’s face, “Melanie told me.”
“Jean-Paul Reginer,” Lauren said happily, “He’s wonderful. We talk about everything.”
“Do I get to meet him?”
“You sure do,” smiling brightly, “He’s coming for dinner tonight.”
“What is he like?”
“Tall, beautifully French. I’m a washout in comparison.”
Indy grinned and said, “Ah, Laurie. You are not washout. You’re a beautiful woman and bright.”
“You’d have to say that,” she said smiling, “You’re my father.”
“But it’s true,” he protested, “And its’ inherited.”
Lauren laughed, the blue eyes twinkling; “It’s weird. I feel almost human since…” she swallowed hard.
“I know,” he said softly, “Tom was a wonderful person.”
“The best,” Lauren nodded, “If only I was persistent of him staying and not going to Central America…” tears forming.
Indy nodded familiar with the routine. His daughter blamed herself for her fiancé’s death, for letting him go off on a dangerous archeology expedition. He wondered how she would have dealt with it if her mother (bless her soul) was still alive. She knew how to handle Lauren and their other children with their emotions.
“Laurie, you don’t feel guilty, do you?”
“I do,” softly, “Like I’m betraying his memory…”
“Stop doing this to yourself,” he commanded, grasping her shoulders, “Tom would have wanted you to go on with life. Find someone to help you raise the children.”
Lauren smiled and went upstairs to dress.

I will have her in my grasp and her father. And then I’ll kill them, a man thought as he walked towards Lauren’s house.
Jean-Paul Reginer was an aristocrat, well known for his medieval studies in Europe. But he had been plotting to avenge his grandfather and father’s deaths since being told the cause was Indiana Jones.
His father, Louis Belloq, died in an excavation for artifacts in the United States when he was only a year old. He was claiming a relic back from the States –The Ark of the Covenant – when Indiana Jones stopped him and had been killed. His grandfather, René, who met his fate with Jones fifty years ago, Jean-Paul was told, rightfully found the Ark.
Afraid for downfall for Jean-Paul, his mother changed his last name to her maiden name. But it didn’t change the fact how Jean-Paul felt about Jones. He had to die, to avenge his ancestors’ deaths.
Oddly enough, he met Jones’s daughter in Paris, but he didn’t know at first. He was introduced to her as Alexandra Stephens, a becoming and forthmost archeologist and teacher at the Sorbonne, three months ago. He didn’t know she was actually Jones’ daughter when he came across her diploma from Barnett College –Lauren Marie Jones- --- was scrawled on the front and he waved it at her. She smiled a bit and said,
“So you know?”
“Know what?”
“That I’m related to an archeologist,” she said, her blue eyes shining, “My father is the ultimate authority on archeology and the occult. His name is Indiana Jones.”
Father, Jean-Paul couldn’t believe it. His beautiful girlfriend was one of them, the Jones broad he had read in the papers. He had read about Jones’ marriage to a socialite, his adoption of his wife’s daughter and the birth of his three children. She would have to die, but not before her father would hand out the Ark to him and she, her father, and her two children would die.

Chapter 5
Lauren was dancing in the room off her bedroom, the stereo blasting. She was wearing her workout gear and dancing to one of her mother’s hits. She was singing along and dancing. Micki was smiling in the corner of the room and calling, “Mama…”
Lauren grabbed her daughter’s hands and danced with her. Indy came up to the room with Jack, hearing the commotion. He laughed and said, “Lauren Marie, you’re as good as your mother was.”
“I could never be as good as Mom was,” she commented as she rushed to turn off the stereo.
Indy smiled at the sparkling eyes. She’s happy, relaxed, and calmer than I’ve ever seen her, he realized as Micki jumped to him and said, “Grandpa, isn’t Mama great?”
“She sure is, Micki,” picking up the girl and holding him close.
“Ok, everyone,” said a voice, “Group hug.”
Indy and Lauren looked at each other and said, “Eric,” as they turned around.
Eric Jones was smiling at them at the doorway. At 35, he was the doctor in a small village in Poland, with privileges in both Krakow and Warsaw. The long hair had been gone and he had gotten his ear pierced with a diamond stud, much to his wife’s dismay.
“Eric!” Lauren said, “What are you doing here? Did you bring Jacks and the kids?”
Eric shrugged and said, “Jacks who?” as he slumped against the doorframe.
“I’m not following” Indy said.
“Jacks and I have separated. Things were getting complicated.”
Indy’s eyes widened and Lauren knew it came as no surprise. Jacqueline Shannon was Lauren’s best friend from her childhood. It was during their junior year in college, during an earthquake, when Jacks and Eric realized they were in love with each other. They waited until Eric was done with medical school to get married. They had constant fights, usually Jacks accusing Eric of working long hours at the clinic and having no time for her or the children.
“What brought it up again?” Lauren said, mopping her face with a towel.
“She’s accusing me of having an affair with my assistant.”
“Were you?” Lauren asked.
“Of course not. I was helping her study for her exams to get her doctorate. Jacks kept telling me that I was lying. Finally, I couldn’t stand it, packed a couple of bags, and headed here for a break and to have a chance to think.”
Lauren nodded and put a hand on her brother’s shoulder, “You’re welcome to stay. Although, you’d have to share a room with Jack. Dad has the guest room.”
“Thanks, sis,” giving her a hug. Eric looked at Jack and smiled, “So which bunk do I get, Jack?”
“The bottom one, Uncle Eric,” the eight-year-old said excitedly and grabbed Eric’s hand, “I want to show you the model of the battleship I did,” pulling Eric.
Eric laughed and said, “Sure thing, kiddo,” and walked off with Jack.
Lauren shook her head in confusion; “It seems Eric gets along better with children than his own wife.”
“It seems that way,” Indy said softly, “I wonder if Jack knew about his daughter’s problems.”
“Probably not. You know how Jacks is towards Uncle Jack. She’s a typical, hot blooded, Irishwoman.”
Indy laughed and said, “You’re right. But I’m a father, Laurie. I look out for you four.”
I know, Lauren thought as Melanie came up and asked, “Is your brother staying with us?”
“For the moment, Melanie,” she said gaily, “Set up a table for seven tonight. Monsieur Reginer is joining us as well.”
“Oui, mademoiselle,” as the nanny left.

Jean-Paul rang the doorbell at Dr. Stephens’ home. A tall, blond-haired man greeted him and Jean-Paul was taken a back.
“Excuse me. I must have the wrong house…”
The man laughed and said, “Are you here to see Lauren?”
“Yes, yes,” he said.
“Come in. She’s upstairs and told me to expect you. I’m her older brother, Eric.”
That would explain it, Jean-Paul thought and said, “Mr. Jones…”
“Eric, please. No need to be formal.”
“Eric, I understand you have a busy practice as a physician. Lauren did not mention you would be here, except for her father.”
“Surprise visit. I needed a break,” as he led Jean-Paul to the parlor and he instantly saw an older gentleman, wearing glasses and eyepatch. The man arose from his chair and walked towards the young men with a cane assisting him. The man smiled and said,
“Bon jour, Monsieur Reginer. I am Lauren and Eric’s father, Dr. Indiana Jones.”
This man killed my grandfather and father? staring at the man’s outstretched hand. He took it and forced a smile, “Professor Jones, delighted to meet you. Lauren has told me a great deal of your adventures and life to me. She’s very proud of you.”
“Thank you,” Indy smiled, “I am very proud of her as well, as well as my other children,” looking at Eric.
Screams were heard above as Micki ran downstairs, terrified, “Uncle Eric, Jack let his lizard out of his cage,” sobbed the little girl, “It’s going to eat me.”
Eric laughed and picked up his niece, “Silly Micki. It won’t eat you.”
“Jack said it will,” crying now.
“Come on,” Eric said, “Let’s go and talk to Jack and find the lizard.”
The girl nodded and Eric turned to Jean-Paul and his father, “Excuse us. It seems we have to settle a matter with Monsieur Jack,” as he went the stairs.
Indy chuckled and Jean-Paul eyed him a bit, “Reminds me of how Eric pulled the same stunt to Lauren when they were kids.”
Jean-Paul laughed as Lauren came down, “What’s so funny?”
Jean-Paul went to Lauren, kissed her cheeks, “It’s nothing, mon cherie. Just remisnicing about the past. You look stunning.”
“Thank you,” smiling at him, “Melanie has dinner ready. Shall we?”
Jean-Paul took her arm and escorted her to dinner, Such a pity that I have to kill her and her family to get the Ark.

Chapter 6
A few days later, Lauren was dancing to a hip-hop song on the radio. Dressed in a white tank top and blue exercise pants, she started dancing as she remember seeing her mother dance in her old music videos. Her brown hair was in pigtails and she started singing. Eric paused outside the room and peered in. He noticed his sister, grinned, and said,
“Pretending you’re a superstar, Laurie?”
Lauren turned and laughed, “I’m doing my exercise. I saw it on MTV in music videos.”
“Laurie, Laurie, Laurie. You know, we’re considered ancient. No more MTV.”
Lauren smiled, “Talked to Jacks lately?”
Eric said, “Tried to. It’s hard to put calls through. Now here’s my song,” hearing a tune from his high school days, “Let me show you what I’ve got.”
Eric started dancing in his white T-shirt and faded blue jeans. Lauren grinned and followed his lead. Indy, Micki, and Jack showed up to watch. Eric bowed when the song ended and said, “Still have it after seventeen years.”
“I don’t think it will ever go away,” Indy said, “Your mother is in you too much.”
“Don’t forget that Laurie’s like you, Dad,” Eric said.
Melanie came into the room and said, “Mademoiselle Jones, this note was on our door.”
Lauren took it from her maid and her eyes widened,
“I know who you are. Give me the Ark of the Covenant. An admirer,” she read out loud.
“This is ridiculous. No one knows about the Ark of the Covenant,” Eric said, “Right, Dad?”
Indy trembled and Lauren and Eric stared at their father, “Dad?”
Indy sat down and covered his face with his hands.

“Ok, Dad. What’s going on?” Lauren demanded.
Indy looked at his daughter to his son and sighed, “Fifty years ago, I was called by government officials to help acquire the Ark of the Covenant. They picked up on a Nazi cable saying Abner Ravenwood acquired the headpiece to the Staff of Ra.”
Ravenwood, Lauren thought, That name sounds familiar.
“I went to Nepal, where I got the headpiece from Abner’s daughter, Marion. We became partners to finding the Ark. Which we found in Tanis…”
“Egypt,” Lauren finished, “So Sallah helped with you as well?”
Indy nodded, “There was someone else who wanted the Ark for the Nazis. A man named René Belloq, a French archeologist. We had been rivals for years since he claimed a paper I wrote as his own.”
“Belloq!” Eric exclaimed, “Mom mentioned this to us. You and he were studying under Ravenwood in Chicago.”
Indy nodded and said, “Belloq captured Marion and I when trying to get the Ark away from the Nazis. He tied us together as he and a few Nazis prepared to open the Ark and view the contents. I remembered what Sallah telling me that death has always surrounded the Ark. I instructed Marion to keep her eyes shut and I kept mine until we heard nothing.”
“Nothing?” Lauren’s eyes widened.
“Nothing. I opened my eyes and saw that the rope had distingrated. Marion and I saw that the Ark was on the altar and Belloq and the fleet of Nazis gone. Turned into dust.”
“So what happened to the Ark?” Eric asked.
“Marion and I brought it back to the States. It has been with government officials since its’ return.”
Lauren paced the floor and said, “Marion? Marion Ravenwood? The girl you had an affair with twice after Mom left the first time?”
Indy nodded, “Marion was also with me in India with your mother. To help me find an artifact in order to get treatment for Kate.”
Lauren stared in amazement and Eric said, “There was a Belloq years ago, Dad. Mom told me it was during the Second World War…”
“Rene’s son, Louis. He blamed me for his father’s death. He tried to claim the Ark in order to turn it to the communist regime. He was killed when trying to escape with it at the airport. Shot by government officials about 35 years ago.”
“Who else knows?” Lauren demanded.
“You two, myself, and Marion.”
“You better call Marion, Dad,” Lauren said grimly, “I’m afraid death is surrounding all of us. It’s better if we were all in one place at the same time.”

Two days later, Marion Ravenwood Ness arrived at the airport. Lauren noticed her right away from the descriptions her mother and father had given her, “Mrs. Ness?” falling in step.
Marion stared at her, “Who are you?”
“I’m Lauren,” tipping her fedora to her, “Come with me,” gruffly.
Marion nodded and followed Lauren. The car ride was tense as Marion looked at her and said, “You look like your father, Lauren.”
“So I have been told,” tense with her, “Throughout the years, especially by my mother while she was alive.”
Marion shivered a bit as Lauren drove around the roads and pulled up to a magnificent house. Marion gasped a bit and said, “This is yours?”
Lauren nodded, “Bought it when I moved to Paris.”
Marion was led in and saw him. She would recognize him in an instant, “Indy?”
Indy nodded, “It has been years.”
“Thirty-five years,” as she looked at the younger gentleman at Indy’s side. Indy patted the man’s shoulder and said, “I guess you won’t recognize Eric. You haven’t seen him since…”
“The christening,” Marion marveled, “Yes, he has changed.”
“I better,” Eric quipped, “I’m bigger and not wearing diapers.”
Marion laughed a bit, “Your father’s sense of humor, too.”
“You were at my brothers’ christening?” Lauren asked.
Marion nodded, “Your mother and father asked me and my husband to be godparents when she found out she was pregnant.”
“Husband?” Lauren wondered out loud, “Eliot Ness?”
Marion nodded, twisted a gold band on her finger, “We married shortly after your brothers’ birth. In fact, the day we got married, your brothers’ were baptized.”
“What happened to Eliot?” Eric asked.
“He was killed twenty years ago. Gunshot battle in the northside of Chicago. A few years before your mother’s death.”
Eric and Lauren was silent for bit until Micki burst into the room, “Mama,” crying a bit, “Can I go outside? It’s nice out.”
“May you, Michaela?” Lauren said.
“Ok, may I? Please,” the blue eyes shined on her.
“If its’ alright with Melanie.”
“Ok,” as she ran from her mother and started to look for her nanny. Marion looked at Lauren, “Your daughter?”
Lauren smiled a bit, “She’s mine. My last gift to me from her father.”
“You’re a widow?” Marion asked.
Eric snorted a bit; “Lauren’s never been married. She was engaged to her children’s’ father but they never found the time to plan a wedding. He’s been dead for almost six years.”
Lauren shot a glare at her brother and shrugged, “It’s a mistake I have to learn to live with.”
“And what about your other brother?” Marion asked.
“Michael are living in New York and married with kids. He’s taken over Kate’s business,” Indy said.
“And what do you two do?” Marion asked Lauren and Eric.
“I’m a doctor in Poland,” Eric said, “I have a few children. My wife is someone I care not to discuss at the moment.”
Lauren looked at Marion, frowned and said; “I’m like my father. An archeologist. I teach at Sorbonne.”
She’s an archeologist? Marion was in awe and then she recognized Lauren’s face, “Alexandra Stephens?”
Lauren nodded, “I’ve changed my name around the time I got my degree from Sorbonne. Figured it would be easier.”
My, my, things have changed, Marion thought as she looked at Indy, remembering how he made his choice to stay with. He chose Katherine over her because he loved Katherine and she made him happy. Lauren cleared her throat and said, “Now about the Ark, Mrs. Ness? Tell us everything.”

Chapter 7
Indy stared at the television screen, pausing the tape he was watching. He stared in fascination and thought Katherine.
Kate had died years ago from leukemia. She suffered in the year of treatments when she decided two months before her death no more. She wanted to be at peace and not to suffer. He still missed her, even though he would never admit it to his children. They would have told him to move on with life.
But he couldn’t, he thought, I would betray her memory. Just like Lauren believed would betray Tom’s. But Lauren was young; she needed to find someone. I’m, Indy admitted to himself¸ getting up there in years.
“Your daughter is something else,” Marion remarked walking into the room, “She’s very much like you –“ as she looked at the screen, “Katherine?”
Indy nodded, “Lauren took most of reels and put them on tape,” pointing at the screen, “This was after the twins were born. In fact a year before Lauren was born.”
“Her revival album,” nodding, “I remember Eliot pointing it out to me. I have it at home.”
“She was beautiful,” he said, “Smart, wonderful to me and the kids. I felt I didn’t deserve her.”
“Because she was rich?”
“That and among other things,” he sighed, “Katherine was one in a million. After Deirdre was killed, I felt I could never cared for anyone else like I did with her. But she changed that,” Indy pointed at the screen.
“She bought you?” Marion couldn’t believe what she was hearing.
“No!” as he slammed a fist on the nearby table, “She never would have done that. She didn’t care about her money. She wanted to be loved for who she was on the inside, not in the public eye’s view.”
Marion nodded. Eliot had told her the similar stories of Katherine. Indy closed his eyes and said,
“I keep remembering the last thing she said to me, ‘I’m taking a nap upstairs. Wake me for dinner.’ She gave me a kiss, went to the bedroom, and never woke up again.”
“Oh, Indy,” Marion softly said, reaching out to touch his hand.
“I blamed myself for her death,” somberly, “Thinking I could have saved her…”
“Indy, she had cancer. She was suffering. There was nothing you could have done.”
“Dammit Marion!” exasperated, “She had money. She could have continued with her treatments, found a cure for it, but she didn’t want it. She didn’t want me!”
Marion was shocked, as was Lauren, as she came in, hearing the argument in the hallway. Her eyes watered, she held back a sob and went to her father. She looked at him and said, “Mom loved you, Dad. She said so ‘til the very end.”
She walked away and brought back a well-worn book, “Here, you should read this.”
Indy took it from her, “What is it?”
“Mom’s diary,” Lauren said softly, “I found the hiding place after her funeral. I’ve kept it as a reminder of her.”
Indy touched the book and said, “You’ve had it? All these years?”
Lauren nodded, “It helped me when she died. I wanted to be close to her.”
Indy stared at his daughter and said, “Thank you,” as he walked away from Marion and Lauren.

Chapter 8
Lauren sat on outside on her balcony, drinking a glass of iced tea. She looked up at the stars, and thought Who could be after Dad? And Marion and me?
“Tom, I really need you,” she whispered. The thoughts of her former partner and fiancé flooded back to her, memories flashed in front of her eyes. A lone tear fell down her cheek as she wiped it away. Why was I so stubborn? Why?, she thought as she heard footsteps behind her. She turned cautiously and saw her brother and he asked,
“Couldn’t sleep?”
She shook her head, “Too much on my mind. You?”
“Your kid snores,” jokingly, “Woke me up.”
She smiled a bit, “I’m really glad you’re here, Eric.”
His expression changed and said, “What’s wrong, little sister?”
“I don’t know,” sighing, “I’m wondering if what I did was right.”
“What did you do right?”
“You know,” gesturing with her hand, “Not accepting Tom’s proposal the first time, moving to Paris after Michaela was born, letting Tom go to Central America…”
“Laurie,” Eric said, “Don’t blame yourself. You’ve done wonders that surpassed even Dad’s expectations.”
“It’s not enough.”
“You’re a wonderful mother to your children, a faithful daughter to Dad, a good sister, and an okay archeologist.”
“Just okay?” eyeing him.
Eric laughed, “Ok, a great archeologist. The best one out there, with the exception of Dad.”
Lauren laughed, “No one could be as great as Dad was. Tom as well.”
“Have you spoken with his parents?”
Shaking her head, “They blame me for his death. All the letters I’ve sent have been returned.”
“They don’t know about Micki?” shocked a bit, “Lady Raleigh didn’t seem that way.”
“I’m sure she isn’t. It’s Lord Raleigh who intercepts the letters,” sighing, “It’s better that the children don’t know.”
Eric shook his head, ‘It’s not right, Laurie.”
“How would you tell them?” she said roughly, “If you were in my situation?”
Eric thought for a minute, remembering the situation. At Tom’s funeral, Lord Raleigh announced to Lauren that his son’s “bastard” children were not part of the Raleigh clan and that his estate would be divided evenly between other relatives. Lauren was crushed, not because of the money, but for children’s’ sakes. Painfully, she changed Jack and Michaela’s last name from Raleigh to Jones to avoid any suspicion. Indy was outraged at the treatment and wanted to talk with Lord Raleigh, but she held him back, claiming it was pointless. “Besides, Dad,” she said, “They still got me. I’m their mother, that’s all they need.”
“It still isn’t right,” insisting to his sister.
“It’s in the past, Eric,” Lauren said, “Let it be.”
Eric shrugged and went back inside. Lauren looked out to the stars, sighed, and walked back into the house.

Two people were watching the movement from opposite directions. One of them was Jean-Paul Reginer, grinning to himself, “It will all be over soon,” as he walked away from his hiding spot.
The other was a man in black, a tear glistened down his cheek, Lauren, if only you knew, he thought. He had been on the lookout of Lauren’s whereabouts for the past six years. He wanted so much to tell her everything and who he was, but he couldn’t, not until the right moment.
Someday Lauren, someday, he vowed.

Chapter 9
Lauren was pouring over notes in her office at the Sorbonne. Her eyes were intense as she read and reread her father’s notes as well reading government files on the Ark. Indy knocked on the door and asked,
“Find anything?”
Lauren shook her head and yawned a bit, “Nothing yet.”
He peered over at the desk, “Where did you get those?” indicting the government files.
“I have a friend in Washington. He express mailed the copies.”
“I’m impressed,” smiling at his daughter.
“Don’t be,” Lauren laughed a bit, “I told him that I would let his superior know about his marijuana habits if he didn’t give them to me. Let’s just say he bought my silence.”
Indy laughed a bit as she noticed an item; “According to this, the ark was moved from Washington to an army base in Presidio in the early fifties.”
“San Francisco?”
“Probably when Louis Belloq tried to steal the Ark, the government took some precautions,” as she took an apple from her desk and bit into it, “The time frame does add up from what you told me.”
Indy nodded, “So it’s still there?”
“From these files, the last record of them is 1951, when the Ark was moved, in secrecy. It could still be there. Right under their noses and the army might not know about it.”
“It’s a chance we’re going to have to take,” Indy said softly.
“I’ll call Michael if he could watch Jack and Michaela,” firmly, “If he can’t, I know Rebecca can.”
“You’re not going,” Indy said abruptly.
“May I ask why not?” raising her eyebrows at him.
“Marion and I know about the Ark. We know of the circumstances.”
“Dad, I’m not a little kid,” raising her voice, “I can help. I do have friends in the army.”
“No,” staring at her.
“My children’s’ lives were threatened,” she said loudly, “If anyone threatens them, I make it my business to find out why and prevent it.”
Indy looked at his daughter – a combination of her mother’s feisty and fiery attitude, his wit and skill, and a blend of intellect that astonished him at times – and gave a lopsided grin. He put a hand out to her and said,
“Partners then, Laurie. But if there’s danger –“
“Nothing will scare me off,” interrupting him as she picked up the phone and made the call.

Chapter 10
SAN FRANCISCO
Marion looked at Lauren as she was arranging for transportation to Presidio. She’s amazing, she realized Even Dad would have liked her as his student. Indy came up from behind her and said,
“She’s something else.”
‘Yes,” turning to him, “Where’s Eric?”
“Getting out luggage,” gruffly.
“You’re upset,” she remarked.
“I didn’t want Lauren involved, much less Eric,” shaking his head, “But when Lauren stubbornly forced her way into this mess and Eric said we were getting his help if I didn’t like it or not, I saw their mother in them.”
“Katherine was a bit stubborn.”
“A bit?” raising his eye to her, “She’s found one way or the other to tag along with me.”
“Might have been jealously,” Marion pointed it out, “You did have a reputation as a ladies’ man.”
Indy grinned and nodded, “She had nothing to worry about.”
“You sure?” softly.
Indy shook his head; “I’ve never cheated on her. I think she just wanted the excitement and being rich and famous didn’t cut it.”
They laughed as Eric brought the luggage, “What’s funny?”
“Nothing, son,” Indy said, “Where’s your sister?”
“Making a few phone calls,” he said as he set the luggage down, “This could take hours.”
Indy laughed, “You were as bad on the phone as she was.”
“Was not,” Lauren said from behind as she picked up her bag from the floor, “I’ve talked to Anita. She arranged to have us stay at the base at the Presidio.”
“Anita?” Indy asked.
Lauren nodded, “Anita’s a friend of mine from Sorbonne,” she said to Marion, “We roomed together and she married a army career man. He’s one of the captains on the base. Assistant to the General.”
“Impressive,” she remarked, “You have connections?”
Lauren nodded as she led the way to the rental car; “Some of them are acquaintances from Mom and Dad. The majority are friends from college or childhood.”
“I thought you and Anita had a fight during your second year,” Eric said.
“It was concerning Jacks,” sarcastically, “She kept coming home late from the cafes, driving Anita nuts since she had six a.m. practices. And since I had classes at ten or later, if didn’t bother me at all. It’s in the past.”
Marion nodded as they piled in a black jeep. Lauren went into the driver seat and said, “Fast your seat belts. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.”
Indy and Eric quickly put their seatbelts on as Marion asked, “What in the world --?”
Then Lauren sped out of the lot, going 20 past the posted speed limit. Marion grasped the seat in front of her as she reached her seat belt and put it on. Indy grinned and said,
“Can you tell who taught her how to drive?”
Marion laughed as the rode to Presidio.

Chapter 11
“Laurie!” Anita said as she saw them pull up at her house.
Lauren smiled and turned off the engine. She hugged her friend and said, “It’s Alex now, Anita. How have you have been?”
“Wonderful,” putting her arm around Lauren’s shoulder, “Mark is terrific and,” patting her stomach, “I’m finally expecting.”
“Good for you,” her eyes sparkled, “I’d like you to meet my father, my brother Eric, and Marion Ness. She’s a friend of Dad’s.”
“Eric?” looking at him, “You married Jackie right?”
Eric nodded as Anita shook her head, “Poor thing.”
Lauren started laughing; “I said the same thing at their wedding.”
Anita nodded and shook Indy’s hand, “Dr. Jones. It is an honor. I have heard about you from Lauren.”
“Thank you,” Indy said.
Anita pointed at the dwelling next to the house; “You’re lucky the last recruit left last week,” smiling, “Otherwise you have been stuck at the barracks.”
Lauren laughed, “Thanks, Anita,” as she took a few bags to the house, “I’ll go put these in.”
Anita waved and then turned to Eric, Indy and Marion; “She’s still reeling from Tom, isn’t she?”
“That oblivious?” Eric asked.
Anita nodded, “Remember I dealt with her and Tom in Paris. She wouldn’t admit to me that she was in love with him, even after she got pregnant with Jack. But she had that glow whenever he was around or when his name was mentioned.”
Kate had that too, Indy thought as Anita looked at Marion curiously, “You look oddly familiar, Miss Ness. Have we met?”
“It’s Mrs. Ness,” Marion said, “And I don’t believe we have.”
“Eliot Ness was your husband?” she asked.
“Yes,” in a stage whisper.
“Mark knows your son, Matthew. In fact, he is due for a visit.”
“You didn’t mention Matthew was going to be here,” Indy said to her.
“I hardly keep up with his schedule,” Marion replied.
Matthew was Marion’s only child with Eliot. At thirty-two, he had traveled extensively, majoring in political science and joining the ROTC in college. He was a major in the army as well, but was in several assignments that took time from home. In fact, Marion had not seen him in a couple of years, only letters she had received from him.
“Matt’s an asset to the army,” a voice behind them said.
They turned and saw a man in full army regalia. Anita smiled and said, “This is my husband, Mark Collins –“
Lauren’s voice floated to the group as she shouted, “Mark! It’s been years,” as she hugged him.
Mark laughed and let go to take a look at her, “Jones, you devil. Look at you, you’re as thin as a rail and stunning as ever.”
“Thanks for the reality check,” grinning at him, “You remember Eric, I think?”
“I doubt he does,” smiling at Eric, “We were at UCLA for a while—“
“Mark,” realizing at the moment, “You were one of the best football players, but then you vanished.”
Lauren laughed, “He met Anita when she, Jacks, and I came for a visit. They wrote letters back and forth. Then one day, he appeared in our doorway, announcing that he was studying at Sorbonne for his last year and after that, they got married.”
“Short, sweet and simple,” Mark said, “Come on in. We made the traditional American meal.”
“Chili cheese hot dogs with barbecue potato chips?” Lauren asked.
Anita laughed, “Of course. We need to fatten you up, Laur—Alex. The thin look ended in the seventies.”
Everyone started to laugh as they went into the Collins’ house to eat dinner.

Soon they will be in my grasp, Jean-Paul thought to himself, I will have the Ark and its’ power to destroy the Joneses.
He looked from his point at the hotel, where the Presidio was mildly visible. When he stopped by Lauren’s office, he was informed that Dr. Stephens was going stateside for an archeological expedition. It took some prying and contacts to find out where they were headed. He knew that Lauren; Eric, Dr. Jones, and a woman named Marion were staying at a house in Presidio, as guests to the Assistant General. He found out the actions she took when he left the note on the door. All he had to do was wait.
Soon, very soon.

The mysterious man was watching outside of Lauren’s bedroom window, dressed in army fatigues. He stared at her figure sleeping peacefully. Beautiful as the day I met her, as tear glistened down his cheek, I want to tell her what happened years ago, but I can’t.
The man took a slim pocketbook out of one of the pockets. Opening it, he took out the contents – pictures of Lauren, the little boy and girl; newspaper articles about her, the birth announcement of her youngest child as he read Michaela Katherine Jones. I wish I could have been there.
The man looked in, blew a kiss towards her sleeping figure, “Until soon, my love,” whispering as he resumed his post.

Chapter 12
“No!” Lauren screamed, “He can’t be dead. He can’t be.”
She was clutching the telegram she was given by the general. Tears were streaming down her cheeks, as she collapsed on the living room floor in the house in Greenwich. Her young son came up to her and kept asking, “What’s wrong, Mommy? Are you ok?”
Lauren couldn’t look at her son; she gently patted her stomach, the baby growing inside. “Tom,” she moaned, “You can’t be dead. Wake me up from this nightmare, please.”
“Daddy’s dead?” Jack said, “Mommy, no!”
The little boy started crying as Lauren pulled him closer, “Jack, I wish –“
Jack stared at his mother, angry, “You killed him, Mommy. You did,” running away from her.
“No!!!!” screaming in agony.
“Lauren, wake up,” a gentle voice said
Is it a dream? Lauren wondered, as she was startled awake to see her father’s concerned look, “Dad?”
“You were screaming in your sleep,” he said softly, “You alright?”
“Just a nightmare,” as she looked at the clock on the table beside the bed, “Three o’clock. Never fails,” she muttered.
Indy looked at her in concern; “I worry about you.”
“You don’t have to,” as she sat up in the bed, covering herself in the blankets. Tears in her eyes glistened as she reached for the glass of water on the bedside table. Indy sat at the edge of the bed and said,
“It’s been six years.”
“I know,” wistfully, “And it doesn’t get easier.”
Indy frowned a bit and said, “Have you thought about seeing a specialist on this matter?”
“Dad,” the blue eyes intense, “Every shrink in Europe and the States would tell me I’m suffering from grief and that I should let it go.”
“You should.”
“I can’t,” sorrowfully, “Nothing will ever make me forget. I have two children without a father. I’m reminded everyday.”
“Laurie,” Indy said engulfing her into a hug, “You can’t blame yourself. You didn’t force him to take the expedition.”
“But he wanted to stay,” she said softly, “I wouldn’t let him. I convince him that I would be fine.”
Lauren started sobbing into her father’s chest as she cried herself to sleep. Indy put her down on the bed and covered. She’s helpless and I can’t stop her pain, he thought as he walked out of the bedroom and saw Marion in the hallway.
“Heartbreaking, isn’t it?” Marion said.
“You don’t know the half of it,” as he walked to his room.
“What exactly is her problem?” following him.
“Similar to mine.”
“She blames herself for her mother’s death?”
“No,” roughly, “She blames herself for her colleague’s death. It’s haunted her for years.”
“Her colleague?” Marion said curiously, “Who?”
“His name was Thomas Raleigh. He was one of the professors at Barnett while Lauren was in school. They had a rough beginning but they eventually realized they loved each other.”
“Like you and Deirdre Campbell?” remembering his liaisons with his student.
“Similar,” crackling a smile, “Tom eventually took a sabbatical to Paris in Lauren’s final year at Sorbonne. He proposed to her there and within months, she’d gotten her degree, moved back to the States with him, and then pregnant with their child Jack.”
Marion nodded as Indy said, “Tom wanted to marry her as soon as she found out the baby. She refused to marry because of misplanned pregnancy and wanted to wait until her career to start. He agreed to it, but then years past for them to be too busy to plan a wedding. When they finally decided on a date, Lauren found out that she was pregnant with Michaela and Tom was offered a chance to work with the army in an expedition.”
“And?” Marion said.
“Tom didn’t want to go with Lauren’s delicate condition. She told him to go, do the expedition, and when he returned they would get married. He did, but he never returned.”
“He was killed?”
Indy nodded, “Lauren received the telegram two weeks later. Apparently by a sniper who plotted against the general. The sniper mistook Tom for the general.”
“I had no idea…” Marion started to say as Indy raised his hand, “That’s not all. When it was arranged for Tom’s burial in England, his family stubbed Lauren, claiming that Jack and Michaela were not heirs to their holdings and blamed her for him to take on a dangerous mission. With grief, as soon as Michaela was born she changed her childrens’ last names to her own and took the position at Sorbonne.”
“Dear Lord,” Marion exclaimed softly, “She’s keeping inside isn’t she?”
“Most of the time,” Indy said, “She claims she’s happy, but she’s not. She’s crying in the inside.”
“Raleigh?” Marion said and realized, “Tom Raleigh was Lord Thomas James Raleigh?”
Indy nodded and said, “He was the only heir to the estate. He would be furious of how his family treated Lauren.”
“Didn’t they know who she was?”
“Only that she was his student,” slyly.
“Your children never used Katherine’s influences?”
“Nor mine,” Indy sighed, “That’s their mother in them. They worked for what they wanted on their own.”
Marion had a different impression of them, but she realized she was mistaken. Indy went to the door and pointed at it, “Go back to bed, Marion. I’ll see you in the morning.”

Lauren looked around the base while jogging the next morning. Incredible, she thought, Military doesn’t cut it in France! As she ran into the house next to Anita’s, A shower first, then put on some working clothes, as she walked in. She peered in the kitchen and saw her dad and Marion drinking coffee at the table, “Morning.”
“Hi, sunshine,” Indy said with a smile.
“Where’s Eric?”
“Getting some breakfast with Mark,” Marion said with an amused smile, “Exchanging football stories I gather.”
Lauren nodded and said, “I’m taking a shower. Be back in a bit.”
Lauren relaxed in the hot spray of the shower, rubbing soap on her muscle-toned body. She was about average for a woman her age, nothing really exciting about it, Lauren mused. She got out after washing her hair, wrapping a towel around her, and froze.
On the mirror was written in blood, GIVE ME THE ARK OR YOU WILL DIE!
It wasn’t there before, she realized as she ran out of the room and saw it ransacked. She put on pants and a T-shirt and checked the other rooms, ransacked as hers. Then a thought dawn on her, Dad and Marion are downstairs!
“DAD!” yelling as she ran downstairs.
They were gone, the coffee cups on the table undisturbed. She ran back upstairs for her gun and whip in her hiding place and came back downstairs. She froze as she saw a man with his back faced to her, “Hold it right there!”
The man held up his hands and Lauren demanded, “Turn around slowly.”
The man did so as Lauren held the gun steadily, “Where is my father and Mrs. Ness?”
The man stared and said, “Outside. What is this about?”
“Who are you?” she demanded.
“Laurie,” Indy said coming into the kitchen.
“Dad,” as she hugged him, “I thought you were gone…”
Indy turned red and Marion, who was behind him, said, “And what are you doing holding a gun to my son?”

Chapter 12
Lauren stared at the man, “Son?
The man nodded and saluted, “Major Matthew John Ness, US Army.”
Lauren lowered the gun and said, “What are you doing here?”
“I visit the Collins’ quite often,” Matthew said, “They mentioned that my mother was here and I called them outside.”
Lauren stared as another voice said, “What’s going on—“
Lauren whipped the gun in the direction of the voice and Eric appeared, “Down with the gun, sis,” jokingly.
“Why are you carrying a gun?” Matthew asked, “And that clumsy piece?”
Lauren ignored him and said, “There’s message on the bathroom mirror for you,” looking at Indy and Marion.
Indy’s smile faded, “What message?”
“Oh, the words ‘Give me the Ark or you will die’,” sarcastically, “And written in blood.”
Marion paled a bit and Indy’s fists clenched as he walked to the bathroom to investigate.
“Now”, Matthew said, “What is going on here and what are you doing here, mother?”
Lauren snarled and said, “Better sit down and have your mother tell you a story.”

Matthew was amazed at the tale he was told as Lauren watched him suspiciously. She left the room and he remarked to Marion, “What’s with the guarded look?”
“Don’t mind Lauren,” Eric said, “She’s harmless. She’s just a bit tense.”
“A bit tense?” chuckled, “What’s anxiety?”
Eric chuckled as Indy said, “She’s like me. She doesn’t want too many people involved. A good trait in an archeologist.”
“Archeologist?” as he pointed at the doorway she left in, “Her?”
Indy smiled and nodded, “She’s pretty good.”
“I’ve never heard of Lauren Jones.”
“She changed her name and moved to Europe years ago,” Eric replied, “Perhaps you’re familiar of the name Alexandra J. Stephens.”
“Dr. Stephens? The renowned archeologist of Europe and the US?”
“Very same,” Marion said, “You’ve heard of her?”
“I’ve seen several articles about her and read the papers she presented. She’s very extraordinary.”
“Learned it young,” Indy said with a smile.
Matthew smiled as Lauren reentered and he bowed, “‘Tis an honor, Alexandra.”
Lauren nodded, “Thank you. But since you know it already you can call me Lauren.”
“Lauren. A beautiful name.”
“Named after my great-grandmother,” shrugging, “On my mother’s side.”
“And the Alexandra?”
“My grandmother. And the last name comes from my grandfather’s first name. They died before I was even thought of.”
Matthew smiled as he sipped his coffee; “Your work in Egyptology was extraordinary.”
“Not really,” as she sat down in one of the chairs, “I got most of the background from a family friend. I helped with the excavation of the Sphinx and the Great Pyramids a while back.”
The phone rang as Eric picked it up, “Hello?”
Eric smiled and handed the phone to Lauren, “Micki.”
Lauren took the phone and said, “Michaela? How did you know—“
She smiled a bit and laughed, “Yes, Uncle Mike was a bit anxious,” as she moved away from the table to continue the conversation in private.
“Micki?” Matthew asked, “Her acquaintance?”
“Worse,” Eric said with a grin, “Her daughter.”
“She has a child?” surprised, “I’ve never read about a child.”
“She has two,” Marion stated, “A boy and a girl.”
“Husband?”
“Nope,” Eric said.
Matthew stared as Lauren came back in and said, “I’m going for a walk.”
“Lauren…” Indy started as Lauren said, “I’ll be fine.”
Lauren left as Matthew shook his head; “Dad would have said several things about her…”
“Hot headed would be one,” Marion said.
“She’s not –“ Indy started as Eric laughed, “Dad, you know Laurie is hot blooded. It’s from the Irish and Scottish sides.”
Indy smiled a bit as Marion asked, “What is he talking about?”
“I’ll tell you later. Right now,” as he grabbed a piece of paper, “we have to discuss on what to do when we find the ark.”

Chapter 13
Lauren sat out on the steps in front of the house, smoking a cigarette and thinking. Indy came out and wrinkled his nose,
“I thought you quit.”
“Old habits die hard,” as took another drag.
“Penny for your thoughts.”
Lauren smiled, “We’d be up to fifteen dollars.”
Indy laughed, “More like thirty.”
Lauren laughed and stubbed the cigarette out, “I’m guessing the Nesses are on your nerves.”
“And you and your brother,” frowning, “The Ark is nothing to joke about, Laurie.”
“I know that,” staring at him, “I’ve heard the stories and read your notes. And Mom sent us to Sunday school.”
Indy started to say something as Lauren said, “Dad, I know about the occult. You taught me everything you know and learned a great deal. I can face danger and know my limits.”
Indy looked at his daughter’s eyes – burning bright like two coals – and smiled, “Just be careful.”
“Aren’t I always?” smiling as she patted his hand, “Go enjoy yourself, Dad.”
“What about you?”
“I’ll be fine,” as she reached into her pockets for another cigarette, “Trust me.”
Indy rolled his eyes and went inside. Lauren watched the sunset as she saw Mark and Matthew walking in her direction.
“Jones!” Mark said, “What’s a pretty girl like you doing out?”
“You’d have to ask Anita that,” grinning as she lit her cigarettes.
“Still smoking those French cigarettes?” he asked.
“Once in a while. Relieves stress,” as she took a drag.
Mark laughed and said; “I’d better see how Anita is doing. Care for a game of poker later?”
“Same stakes?”
Mark laughed and turned to Matthew; “Lauren, Anita, Tom, and I would always play poker at the stakes of the loser doing something dreadful that the winner wold put to task. One time Lauren demanded we each give her a hundred dollars ---“
“Those were for school books,” she reminded him.
Mark whispered and said, “She did, but most of it went to a trip she took to the Swiss Alps.”
Matthew laughed as Mark said, “She always managed to win most of the hands. We thought she cheated.”
“I did not,” grinning; “I’m just a good player.”
“Care to prove it?” Mark asked.
“Sure,” sighing a bit, “Give me an hour to adjust and you time with Anita,” thinking a bit, “Shall we say next week?”
Mark chuckled, “Two hours, Jones,” as he went into the house.
Lauren smiled and moved from the stairs to let Matthew pass, “I think your mother’s inside with my father.”
“Can I sit out here with you?”
“Your funeral,” as she finished the cigarette.
“It’s beautiful out here,” he commented.
“I know. I haven’t been here in years. Stateside, I mean.”
“You live in France?”
Lauren nodded, “And you’re --?”
“Everywhere,” sighing, “No home to call my own. The army is my life.”
Lauren nodded as she finished the cigarette and said, “Excuse me.”
She put one foot in the door and he asked, “What are you afraid of?”
Lauren spun around, “Excuse me?”
“You heard me,” looking at her.
“Let me guess. A psychologist?”
“Nope, but is was my minor.”
“And your major was sticking your nose in where it doesn’t belong.”
Matthew was taken a back a bit, “Lauren –“
“Dr. Stephens to you,” she snarled as she went inside, leaving him in shock.

A man watched the two in the distance as he laughed to himself, Ah, Lauren, still as feisty as ever. He looked around and saw another man in the shadows. His eyes narrowed and bent down Who’s this guy? he wondered.

Jean-Paul watched the little spat with amusement. Ah, Lauren Jones, you’ve baited another man in your trap, he thought, he’ll have to die as well. He walked in the shadows to the other side of the base, where his car awaited him. Soon, Dr. Jones, everyone you have close to you will die, thinking to himself.

The next day, Lauren was looking through some cartons in Warehouse Six. She was frustrated a bit and muttered, “A few boxes of ammo, cooking supplies for the kitchen, but no Ark.”
“Find anything?” Eric called out from the other end.
“Nothing important,” she called back as she looked at the worn out crate in front of her. The markings were barely legible with army stamps but the words “TOP SECRET” and “CLASSIFIED” made her curious. She opened the carton and let out a shout of delight, “Eric, get Dad and Marion over here. I think I found it.”
Silence developed around her as she grew irritated, “Eric, no time for fun and games…” she started to shout out in his direction and stared down a gun barrel of a dark clothed man.
“Ah, Dr. Stephens, you’ve found it,” the man said in a heavy accent.
Lauren stared in disbelief and stammered, “Jean-Paul? What are you doing here?”
Jean-Paul was unmoved as he pointed the gun at her and said, “I don’t like questions.”
That’s all Lauren remembered as she blackness enclosed her.



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