The Lost Ark Strikes Back (fan fic)

Posted by MRJ from hnv2-t1-2.mcbone.net on August 25, 2001 at 08:48:19:

The Lost Ark Strikes Back

~Chicago, 1946~
Marion Ravenwood was sitting in her living room, reading a book about pets. She herself didn't own one till last week,
when she felt sorry for a little black cat. She took it into her appartement, providing the kitten with milk and a warm
place to sleep.
The streets of Chicago aren't so welcoming, you must be tough to survive.
The city itself isn't so welcoming either, Al Capone had chosen it to be his headquarters and now there're more godfathers
than policemen, she thought.
On the near-by table stood a glass of good-old Gin, a flash of light was brought into the dark night with a Tiffany-lamp.
Rain-drops were trembling against the window, creating a calming sound.
Nevertheless, Marion was nervous. The little kitty must have felt her mood, because it was still awake, sitting on the
arm-chair.
He'd come.
He'd give her life another direction.
He'd bring joy in her life... or the opposite.
They hadn't seen each other for a long time.
Does she feel more than just friendship for him?
No, she thought to herself, his unsteady life wasn't the life she was longing for.
Since a long time, Marion didn't know what she wanted, but could he give it to her?
Impossible.
Stop thinking of him!
Her satin bathrobe was opened a little bit, revealing her skin.
The cat was watching her movements with scary, yellow eyes.
"Don't look't me like that Tom, have ya never reached a possible turning-point in ya life?"
The eyes follow every movement of her lips.
At a sudden, somebody knocked at the door.
Marion jumped up, seeming even more nervous now.
Before she opened the door, she through a fast view into the mirror.
"Good evening, Marion."
*It was him.*
"Hi Marcello. Welcome..."
"You look delightful, my dear. How do you betray the years?"
"Please, would we leave the small talk for later, we've got something important to talk 'bout."
He took her hand into his and kissed it softly.
"You are right, honey."
"Do ya want something to drink?"
"A Scotch would be nice. You have a very nice appartement my dear. I see that the payments are worth it."
"My price for it was high enough."
"Well, why do you think I desired to visit you? To refresh our relationship?"
"Possibly... In fact, I wanna know if ya have a new job for me? The ol'one gets boring."
"Not so far, all restaurants, bars and pubs are occupied, I think you'll have to stay where you are at."
"So why did ya come? Not just for chattin' I guess."
"You're right. The reason for which I'm here now, is an order from the Highest."
"Pardon? Al Capone's in jail."
"I didn't think of him, this has nothing to do with the Mafia, Marion."
"You're confusin' me. Whom d'ya mean by the Highest?"
"Remember happenings 10 years ago?"
"Ya mean the lost ark?"
*It's twenty years ago...*
"Yes, you saw it."
"No, I closed my eyes, you're not allowed to look at the power of god."
"Who told you that?"
"A person who knows!"
"Where is the ark now?"
"Somewhere at the FBI or CIA, I'm not sure, they took it away from us."
"Who took it away?"
"I've no idea... why're ya askin' all those questions?"
"It's very important. You must tell me everything!"
Marcello was getting up from his seat, moving towards Marion.
"You're frightening me. Why's the ark so important for ya?"
"Just tell me!" He was nearly screaming.
"No! Get away! I don't owe you something!" Marion was reaching out for the phone, when a knife cut the cable.
"Whatta ya think you're doin? Get out of my house."
Ten years ago, she had used the same words to throw Indiana out of her inn...
*Why must history always repeat itself?*
"You heard me, get out!"
This time he directed the weapon at Marion...

A man was passing the house, when he heard a woman's voice screaming.

She could already sense the silver blade moving towards her throat, when she saw a shadow.
Should history really repeat itself in every part?
"Let the lady go!"
Marcello felt the barrel of a gun in his back, turning around.
"Give me the knife!"
Instead, he pointed it at the man.
But Marion was quick, she took a vase which was standing near the window and hit it over his head.
He abruptly fall on the ground, blood running down his face.
"You saved my life, Miss..."
"Ravenwood. And ya saved mine."
The man shot a mysterious view at her.
"We should get out of her, just in case if somebody of his friends might come to take a look. Grab your gear!"
"What's your name?"
"Jack, Jack Shannon. We need to get out of here."
"Wait! I need to change into something else."
After a few seconds she came back, wearing a long black skirt with a slot and a black leather jacket.
"We're on a chase and not goin' on the catwalk, my dear!"
"Ladies want to look good no matter what they do! Where's Tom?"
"Who?"
"My cat."
"Forget your cat, the police'll be here in a few minutes."
"Mister, I'm thankful that you saved my life, but don't give me orders, right!?"
She discovered her little kitty hidden under a table.
"We can go."
Jack pulled her by the hand out of the house as horns were heard at the end of the road.

~Washington DC, same night~
Henry Jones jun. was sitting in his living-room at the desk, studying a new book of the life of Julius Caesar.
He wasn't particulary interested in it, just needing a good-night-lecture.
A glass of Seltzer was standing next to him, little bubbles where rising at the edge of the glass.
Indy watched them and his mind began to wander away.
This year he would arrive at the age of 47, the magical nr.50 getting closer and closer. Sometimes he felt himself
like an old man and there was nothing to keep him young. His students must regard him like one of those old, dusty
professors who spent their life travelling through the letters of books.
Actually his life was a little bit more... adventureous.
Indy thought ten years back... The ark... Marion... Possibly it were the women who had kept him young. But Marion
Ravenwood wasn't just 'a woman', he had really loved her. When they had first met twenty years ago, she was only 15
years old, already being a young lady, knowing how to seduce men.
It wasn't her goal to be a seductive woman she had once told him, but to him she was damn attractive.
They lost contact about nine years ago, because of an argument. They decided to seperate and she moved away.
He was so angry, that he didn't really care where she had moved, but then he had regretted his decision of letting Marion
depart.
Where's she now? Married? With Children? He felt jealousy rising up, but drowned the feeling.
He washed the memory away with a gulp of water.
He looked out of the window, seeing only darkness, was he getting into midlife crisis? No, it was too early, he had seen
Marcus suffering from it only some time ago.
As he searched for something in the black night, his eye-lids became heavy and finally he closed them.
Awakened by a sound coming from the front door, he opened his eyes and took the Smith & Wessons which was laying in a
drawer.
"Dr. Jones? Here's a telegram for ya, sir."
He switched the light on and opened the door, hiding the gun behind his back. The light hurt in his eyes, he closed his eyes
and opened them a few times until they were used to the brightness.
"You're bringing a telegram in the middle of the night?"
"Well, it's already 5.30 sir and I saw light in your house, so... I'm sorry if I awakened you."
He shot a puzzled view at the young guy standing before him.
"Thanks. You may leave now."
"Actually sir, normally you give a little tip."
"Listen, youngster, I'm not normal!"
This guy was stretching his nerves to the limit...
He looked a little dissapointed and murmured something.
Indy shot the door behind him and looked at the telegram.
It was from Kairo! Sallah? No, his wife was sending it.
"Mr. Jones, I'm sorry to interrupt you, but my husband has dissapeared. Sallah was working on something and didn't come
back. He's away for a week now."
What? Sallah had dissapeared? That was impossible, he did always kick himself out of bad situations.
As he thought about what might have happened to his friend, he heard the telephone ringing. This day had a really nice
start...

~Chicago~
Marion was getting up, heading for the bathroom. A quick look out of the window told her what she feared the most:
Black-uniformed men standing in the street.
She through a fast view into the mirror, regarding the picture she saw.
Where should she go now? Chicago wasn't the place where she could stay, possibly never again. If only she knew who was
after her... But what would it change? Nothing...
Going to the police was impossible too, the Mafia has connections to everywhere.
If Marcello was dead? Could she trust this Jack Shannon? He's this kinda guy who'd be a good friend to Indy.
Marion wondered where he was at. Still teaching at university?
The ark, this damn ol'artefact, would it be hunting her her entire life? Why was it so important now?
She took a notebook out of her handbag. She searched for adresses, where she might go to, when the door swung open.
"Oh, Miss Ravenwood, I-I'm sorry."
"It's okay, looks like I forgot to lock the door, sorry."
She smiled at him.
"Can ya give me an idea where I'd go now, I can't stay here, there're men in black standing in the street."
"I've already arranged something for you, I'm sending you over to a friend of mine, there you'll be saved. Your plane
departs today at 11.00a.m. I'll accompany you to the airport of course."
"Who's that guy?"
"He's a friend and he still owes me something."
"Can I trust him?"
"Yeah, we must leave now."
"How do we get outta here?"
"No problem, just follow me..."

They went down the emergency stairs.
"I've checked this way before, it's save."
"Sure?"
"Completly."
"Who's this guy I'll stay with? What's his occupation?"
"He's a professor."
"Where?"
"Get down!"
A guy with a machine gun was pointing at them. Marion ran down the steps and through herself behind a container, pulling a
gun out of her hand-bag.
Man, this lady knows how to kick ass, Jack thought.
"Jack, you get down!"
They heard maschine-fire heading towards them.
"This way!"

With the last of efforts they reached the airport, it was already 10.45a.m.
"How do I recognize the professor?"
"He'll recognize you."
"Where am I goin'?"
"Washington D.C., good flight!"
She nearly jumped into the plane, she was the last passenger to get on.
"Good morning, Miss Ravenwood."
"Yeah, a really good morning."
"Your seat is over there."
The stewardess pointed at a place next to the window.
"Thanks."
She took it and abruptly feared the worst.
She was going to Washington now, to a professor teaching at the university she persumed.
In Washington was only one university as far as she could remember.
And what sort of professor would have a friend like Jack?
"Oh now!" she signed. It couldn't get any worse.
The man sitting next to her shot a worried view at her.
"Forgot something?"
"Eh, pardon?"
"My wife always forgets to switch off the iron."
"Well, half of the mafia's after me an'right now I'm goin' to hide at an ex-ex-lover."
"Good god!" The man shaked his head.
I guess this conversation is determied.
Marion watched out of the window, 2 damn hours to get used to the thought to see Indy again. After nine years...
After a few minutes the stardesses came around to bring drinks.
"Madam, what would you like to drink?"
"A whiskey, please."
She was longing for something that would make her less nervous. Maybe she'd hide at the Washington airport somewhere.
And then what, Marion? she asked herself. She had no place where she could go to, maybe to her aunt...
As the first drops of whiskey reached Marion's tongue, she began to feel a little bit more comfortable.

Washington D.C. [12.55pm]
Indy was at the airport, looking at the approaching planes.
Jack had called early this morning, saying that a certain Marion Ravenwood faces dangerous problems.
Indiana had once told Jack about her, now he knew where she lived or -better, where she had lived.
This time it was him to be angry, not her. And this time she was coming to get his help.
He smiled to himself. His hands were buried in the pockets of his trousers.
"Flight No. 2673 from Chicago to Washington has just arrived at the airport." a female voice said throught the intercom.
After a few minutes the first passengers entered the hall through the gateway, Indy heard children laughing, saw
persons hugging each other. Well, their welcome wouldn't be so heart-warming.
Then he saw her. She seemed mixed up, a little tired, but still as beautiful as ever.
Indy met Marion's gaze, her face didn't change.
He walked towards her.
"Hi Marion."
"Indiana Jones."
"Long time no see."
"I know."
Man, this was icy!
"Do ya have any luggage?"
"How should I? I had to pack in seconds."
"Don't blame me."
Her eyes went to the ground, she tried to remain calm.
"I think Jack told you what happened."
"Yeah, but just a few details. My car's over there."
"Alright, let's go."
She went straight into the direction Indy's finger had pointed to a few seconds before.
"Hey, leading lady, not so fast!"
"I just don't like public places. I guess they're searching for me."
"Who's they?"
"I'll tell you, when we're at your house."

They approched his car, an old Mercedes Benz.
"I didn't know you like german cars."
"Well, I fell in love with this one 6 years ago and it's really a good vehicle."
"I see."
There was it again, this damn silence, the past was too heavy to speak. Indy hated it, when she wrapped herself up in quiet.
In the last 20 years he had come to know her cheerful and happy attitude and hated to see her this upset.
He searched for words to make her a little bit more comfortable.
"I have prepared a room for you, you can stay as long as you want to."
Marion looked up from her belly, trying to catch herself.
"Thanks. I'm not sure yet how long I'll stay with you. Let's see if they come searching for me."
"What will you do, if they don't? Go back to Chicago?"
"No, it's too dangerous. I think I'll have to start from zero, somewhere."
"You're brave."
She smiled. "Always will be."
"Why don't you get yourself a nice husband and a few children and settle down in Iowa? Start a farm or something like that?"
"A husband? Who's supposed to be the lucky one? You?"
"I'm too old for starting a family."
"Building a family doesn't depend on age, it depends on courage."
"Tellin' me I'm not courageous?"
"Indy, you have never been courageous in the mushy stuff."
"A family isn't mushy, you need to plan and..."
"Since when do YOU plan something? Everything comes rushin' to ya!"
"Agreed, you for example!"
"I came rushin' to ya? No, my dear, Jack didn't even tell me you're the prof he's sending me to."
"What'd you done if he'd told ya?"
"I'd have more time to prepair."
"Prepair for what? Me?"
"Sure!? Why did ya ask Jack not to reveal to me that he's sending me to ya? Where you afraid I might say no?"
"Yeah. You know pretty well that we didn't split up in friendship."
"We never did seperate in friendship, not nine years ago, not twenty years ago."
"Seems to be our destiny."
Marion remained quiet for a few moments, than asked quietly:
"If it's possible to change destiny?"
Indy turned his head to face her.
Their eyes met, she seemed so soft and vulnerable now, although Indy knew that Marion would never give up, no matter what
happened. That's a thing he liked about her.
"There it is."
Marion got out of the car and went to the porch.
"There hasn't much changed here, although your garden needs a female thumb."
"Are you volunteering?"
"Are you kidding?"
"Ma'am, home sweet home." Indy said with a smile and opened the front door for Marion.
"Oh, a few new artefacts! Beautiful..."
"Thanks. It took me quite a time to get'em."
"You're worse than Abner, really..."
"Here's your room. Next to it is the bathroom. I promise I won't sing under the shower."
"How regardful. Where's your chamber?"
"Downstairs."
"You'll have kinda long way to rescue me, if I start screaming."
"I'm fast."
"I know."
They started to sneer at each other.
"Want something to drink?"
***
The day passed kinda fast. Indy explained to Marion that Sallah was missing and that he's planning to go to Kairo and search
for his friend. As soon as the vacation begin.
They went shopping on Marion's proposal, just to get a few needed things and new clothing...
Brody came by, they spent the evening together, talking about Marion's possible involvement in the National Museum, if
she'd decide to stay in Washington.
"This would be a nice idea, Marcus."
"Yeah, would give me a chance to do a good job. Thanks for the offer."
"We are the only family you have", Brody said.
"True. It's not easy to find real friends."
Marion glanced over at Indy, who was occupied with his glass of Gin.
Brody looked on his watch.

"Dear, it's already 11.00pm! Time to go to bed!" he laughed.
"It was nice to have you here, Marcus. You might come back, if you want."
"Thanks Marion, and also thanks for the nice cooking."
"Bye, Indy."
He walked to the door and closed it behind him.

"Well, I'm also goin' to bed. Leave the dirty dishes to me. I'll clean up tommorrow."
"Yeah. Good night."
"Whaz up? You're so quiet."
"Me? Guess just concerned bout Sallah. I hope it's not too late, when I'll fly to Kairo in three days."
"It won't be. He's though, I don't think there has something serious happened."
"I hope so."
Marion went upstairs, just about to go into her room.
"Sweetheart?"
"Hm?" She turned around.
"Good night."
"Good night, man with the hat."
He smiled softly, drank the rest of the gin and turned the light out.
***
It was late morning, when Marion got up.
Rays of light fell through the curtain, plunging her room into warmth.
Indy must be at university since a few hours, she didn't hear him leave.
The house was small but neat. Everywhere hung pictures of ancient drawings, stood artefacts of old cultures.
Marion felt herself like in a jungle.
The dishes were still standing on the table, she decided to clean up first and then to take a shower.
To her own astonishment Indy hadn't asked her about the happenings in Chicago yet.
She was thankful for his discretion, maybe he'd wait until she threw this theme in by herself.
After cleaning up, Marion was longing for a refreshing shower.
***
Henry Jones sr. had visited the museum early this morning and was now on his way to his son.
He didn't visit Junior often, honestly just twice a year.
This was an exception because Marcus had told him about the disappearance of Sallah. Now he was curious, if Junior knew
something more about it.
Henry approached the front door and knocked. As nobody opened, he walked slowly around the house and sat on a chair standing on the
terrace.
His eyes studyied the garden and how neglected it was. The house itself was in quite a good shape.
"The terrace door!" he realized. Junior always used to leave it unlocked.
"As usual!" he exclaimed.
"Junior? Are you there? Junior!"
Standing inside the house, he went upstairs, because of hearing a sound inside the bathroom.
"Junior? Are you in there?" Without knocking he opened the door.
"Junior!" Henry watched the woman who had turned her back to him and was drying her hair. "No, you're not my son."
Marion swung around and began to scream. "Who're ya? Get out! Damn peaker!"
"Where's Junior?"
"Get out! Or I'll call the police!"
"You first tell me where's my son."
"What's the name of your son?"
"Junior. Henry Jones jun."
"Indiana?"
"Ah, that's the name of the dog, his real name's..."
"Alright, I understood. He's at the university where he's supposed to be."
"Oh, I forgot..."
"Give me a second and I'll dress."
"Alright." Henry kept standing in the bathroom.
"Ah, you've got to get out, sir."
"Oh, yeah, right." He looked at the floor, shook his head and got out.
Marion simply fling herself a bathrobe on and got out.
"So you're Indy's dad?"
"Right. What did you do in Junior's bathroom?"
"I took a shower. By the way, my name's Marion."
"Nice to meet you!" He took her hand and shook it.
"Want something to drink?"
"No, alcohol in the morning and your stomach gets burning."
Henry took a step forward just to see her face better.
"I know you."
"Don't think so, Indy has no pics of me."
"No, no, I saw you this morning..."
"Can't be, I slept until 12.00. Sure I'm not anybody else?"
"Pretty sure. Ah, if I just could remember..."
"Sure you don't want a drink?"
Henry had focused his eyes on the ground, Marion was trying to catch his gaze.
"Ah, now I remember, you were in the newspaper!"
"Me? For what reason?"
As she realized that Indy's dad was still unsure, she went downstairs and took the newspaper. It nearly hit her.
"Mafia Murderer!"
A picture of her was underneath the headline.
She slammed her hand before her mouth, trying to keep it from opening and beginning to scream.
"What's up, Lady?"
Marion was searching for a hold with the other hand to make sure she didn't collapse.
"This- this can't be! They're lying!" she yelled.
Henry came to her side, took a look into the newspaper.
"You have murdered this poor guy!"

Indy was giving the last lesson for the day- ancient greece.
"So this is how the Titans fought against the Giagants. Chronos versus Zeus, father versus son.
You can believe this story if you like to. It's just one of all those how the world was created.
This's the greek version."
The bell rang.
"For tommorrow please read pages 30-45 in your book, equalities of the greek and roman mythology."
Brody was entering the classroom.
"Indy, there's an old friend of yours who wants to meet you."
"Old friend? Sounds a little sarcastic to be honest."
"You remember Eaton?"
"How can I forget him?"
"Now you're sarcastic!"

"Dr. Jones, to make it short, the reason why I'm here is that the ark of the covenant has been stolen."
"What?!" Both Indy and Marcus rose from their chairs.
"I thought you have your best men working on it! And now it has been stolen? I really don't get it! Don't you..."
"Indiana, please", Brody tried to calm him, "How did it happen?"
"We have no idea, the arc was kept at a secret place in a cave. To get into it you need a code. The door is made of steel
built to resist even atomic bombs."
"Maybe one of your own men..."
"No, that's completly impossible."
"Why's that so impossible?"
"Our men are loyal. Actually, our waiter was speaking about strange happenings."
"Strange happenings? Little green men perhaps? Or Nazis?"
"No."
"How long's the ark away by now?"
"We're not sure, because she's just one of thousand treasures we keep in that cave."
Indy just shook his head. "Well, we'll know who has stolen the arc as soon as he uses it."
"What makes you so sure, it was a he who's the thief?"
"Why should a woman..."
"I also want to warn you: I guess you still remember the daughter of Mr. Ravenwood?"
"Marion? Sure, why?"
"Because she's a murderer! In Chicago she has killed a man who was also searching for the arc. Right now it's said that
she's staying in Washington, so please, pay attention."
"Of course... You don't like the Ravenwoods, do you?"
"As soon as we have new information, we'll send it to you. And if someone can find the ark, it's you."
"By the way, where's Musgrove?" Brody asked.
"He's dead. He was killed at the strange happenings I told you about. Good day, Dr. Jones, Dr. Brody!"
"Indiana, do you...?"
"No, I don't. Marion would have never killed someone on purpose."
"I agree, but..."
"Marcus, I'm goin' home, let's see what she has to tell me."

When he entered his house he heard his dad's voice.
"Dad?"
"Junior!"
As he went into the living-room Indy saw Henry sitting on the couch together with Marion who seemed puzzled.
"I'm glad you're home, Junior, I wanted to ask you something."
"Wait, I first have to ask her something."
"So you know."
"Don't tell me it's true. They're searching for you!"
"What do you think? Why should I have killed this guy? It was a friend of mine!"
"I guess it's time."
"Time for what?"
"To reveal what you've been doin' in Chicago. Jack told me he had often seen you at bars and pubs."
For a few moments she searched for the right words. "Well, I was running my own night-club, but then the mafia bought it because it went kinda good. I was still the chef,
having to give payments to godfathers to uphold my security."
"And this guy, Marcello, he was..."
"He was one of the godfathers. He came to me that evening, we talked a little bit, but then he began askin' me questions
bout the ark of the covenant."
"The arc! Damn! Why always the ark?"
"What's so bad 'bout it?"
"Tell you later. Go on."
"As I told him I didn't know where it's stored at, he became angry and attacked me with a knife. That's when Jack showed
up. I gave Marcello a quick knock with a vase, then we left. That's all."
"Well, what a story!" Henry sen. said.
"It's not a story, it's the truth!" Marion yelled.
She looked at Indy who was watching her. "Do you believe me?"
"Yes, I do."
"Junior!"
"Dad, I know her a lil'bit longer than you do, she's no a liar and more than ever no murderer."
"Well, you must know. I just remind you on Elsa."
"Dad, that's something else! Why're you here after all? You never come 'round for a visit except it's Chrismas."
"Marcus told me about Sallah's disappearance."
"And?" His eyes went wide open.
"And I... I think I forgot..."
"Great. However, Marion didn't commit a murder, she's innocent. Okay, dad?"
"Sure."
"Indiana, please."
"Shut up. Dad, promise me. Our lives depend on it!"
"Alright, alright, son. By the way, she's really a charming lady. How did you meet?" he chirped.
They looked at each other.
"That's a very long story..."
"It begins 20 years ago."
The phone rang and Indy changed into another room.
"20 years? Damn, how could you stand my son so long?"
"Eh, actually I couldn't withstand his charme. He keeps telling me I seduced him."
"That sounds great. Why didn't you stayed together? Would have kept Junior from a lot of bad women."
"I was 15 years old when we started our affair. Indy was 27. You see..."
Henry's mouth fell open. "B-but that's seduction of minors!"
"That's why we kept it to ourselves. He left, giving me the promise of his return.
Well, he came back- after 10 years."
"Didn't you hate him for that?"
"Oh, damn I did. And sometimes I still do."
"What do you sometimes still do?" Indy came back.
"Hate you."
He seemed a little surprised by her prompt answer.
"This was Jack. He said they're lookin' for you everywhere. But he'll keep his mouth shut."
"Glad to hear. Does he think we've killed the guy with the vase?"
"No. The arc story gets more and more mysterious."
"What if... no, impossible."
"What? What, Marion?" Did she know more than she confessed?
He moved in front of her and looked down.
"What? What do ya know?" He nearly yelled.
"You scare me! Calm down! I was-"
Indy grabbed her by the shoulders, staring at her with wide eyes.
"Tell me!"
Marion was trying to get up, pushing him away. "Is everybody gettin' insane?"
Henry was helpless and surprised by the sudden strength of his son.
"Junior, let her go!"
However, Marion wasn't as helpless, she punched Indy hard in attempt to free herself.
He fell to her knees, touching the wound.
"I-I'm sorry..."
Slowly he rose and looked at her. "Ten years ago..." A smile flit over his face.
"Junior, are you alright? What has gotten into you?"
"I'm not sure..."
"What I wanted to say: Maybe the dissapearance of Sallah has also something to do with the arc."
"Could be... You're right! All the persons who got in touch with the arc or saw it are in danger. We've got to hurry
and get to Kairo."
"We?"
"You're comin' with me! You're in danger, don't you realize that?"
"Sure I do, but since when are you my prince charming?"
"No discussion 'bout it! I gonna get you a passport and a blonde wig, so you won't be recognized."
"I'm not goin' with you on a suicide-mission, Jones! Our first trip to find the arc was exciting enough!"
"Has the time in the city weakened you or do you just love complaining?"

"Know what? I just hate you! You attract the danger like a magnet!"
"You hate me? You keep tellin' me that, but why do you still stay near me?"
"Ya're an arrogant, egoistic pig, know that!?"
Henry kept watching those two argueing, being amused by it.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please..."
"Shut up!" both yelled at the same time.
"I'm a pig? Glad to hear, Mrs. Tramp!"
"Who's been a bum all his life? Gettin' in bed with all the women who crossed your road."
"Now you're becoming really insulting."
"That's what you want, isn't it? Gettin' all the buried feelings outta me!"
"No, I want you to calm down."
"As far as I remember you always loved me bein' arroused."
"Dad, would you please get out?!"
"I guess that's the best idea. Good day you two."
"Bye, Henry."
As he had left the house he turned back to Marion.
"I don't know why I still hide you here."
She just looked at him, not wanting to argue any more.
"What do we do now?" she asked quietly.
"You sometimes really get the hell outta me! I'm gonna get you a passport and a fairy wig. We'll leave a day earlier."
"Tomorrow."
"Right. Prepare yourself for the flight, I'll be back in a few hours."
"Sure."
When he was about to leave, she added: "I'm sorry."
Indy left without a word.
Marion felt guilty.
She always pushed people away, but Indy wasn't so hard to expel. In some way she was thankful for that.

As Indy came back at 9.00pm, there was no visible sign of Marion.
"Marion, where're you?"
There was still no sign of her.
"Common, I'm not angry any more.
Indy persuded that she might sleep already.
However, he had to speak with her, so he opened the door to her room to see that she was not inside. Her bags were packed.
"Marion? Damn, where're ya?"
The next place he went to was the bath room. He searched the whole house, but there was no sign of her. Maybe...
No, he hoped that the Mafia guys haven't been here, but they would have done damage- or not.
A lot of scenarios rushed through his mind. She could have run away. But would she leave all her clothing? No.
Indy was getting nervous. He felt responsible for her, although she could take care of her own.
Buried memories came back from the depth of his soul, he had always felt responsible for her, because in some way it was
his fault where she was now.
No, his mind reminded him, she did know pretty well what she did 20 years ago.
His eyes watched his hands in which he was still holding Marion's new passport and wig.
"I should first bring this crap in my room before I'll go lookin' for her."
His bed-room was filled with the warm light of a single candle.
Lightening from outside enlightened the room for a few seconds when he Marion laying on his bed.
She must have fallen asleep while waiting for him.
Light was reflecting on her silken night-goan, her raven hair did fall in curls on her back, making herself adorable.
He wouldn’t know how to withstand her if she awakened now, but he had to…
At the next lightening she slowly opened her eyes and looked at him.
“Hi, I must have fallen asleep.”
“Alright, I-I gonna sleep in your bed.”
“Wait, did it went good today? Is everything arranged?”
“Yes, our plane leaves at 13.00. I’ll tell you everything tommorrow morning. I’m tired.”
“Me too, I’ll go in my bed.”
She was getting up slowly, Indy watched every pliant move she made.
He grabbed her by the arm before she could pass him standing in the doorway.
She turned her face to look at him, their lips were close.
“Marion…”
“What?”
“I was worried.”
“Why so?”
“I was lookin for you as I entered the house. You didn’t answer my calls.”
“I’m sorry, also for the argument this afternoon.”
“Well, it’s okay.”
“However, you deserved it.” She said with a grin.
“Pardon?”
“I love argueing with you, because you deserve it.”
“You know that you conjure up a new quarrel?”
“There won’t be a time we won’t fight each other.”
“So you call it a fight?”
“Sure I do. We both wanna show each other that we don’t depend on each other, although we do in some way.”
“I do not depend on you! Let’s get one thing straight!”
“Who had the medallion of Re? Who saved your life a thousand times? Who’s dad teached you a lot?”
“Who’s life did I save? Who did I beware for Belloq and the Nazis?”
“Belloq’s a nice guy, don’t say something ‘bout him!”
He stared at her in disbelief. “Glad to hear. Too bad he’s dead!”
Marion gave him a smile, strolling over to him and stood on her tip-toes to reach him. “But he’s no comparison to you…” she whisphered.
His hands slided softly behind her back, pulling her closer.
“He didn’t get everything he wanted…”
Their lips were only inches away from each other.
“No, he was very upset as I told him he wasn’t the man I loved.”
They kissed passionately, both surprised by the sudden longing they felt.
Her tongue glided into his mouth, meeting his.
As the kiss got more and more intense, her hands began to massage his back.
Indy slowly pulled away, catching for breath, looking at Marion.
She could feel heat getting up in her, long buried heat.
As her eyes met his, she tried to remain calm, although her body was burning.
His lips were about to touch hers once again, when she searched for a last proof that they were doing the right thing.
“Are you sure we can do this?” she asked throaty.
His lips caressed her neck, every soft touch was more than an answer.
She could feel his longing, his excited breath, his rough hands embracing her tender but willing body…

It had been a stormy & wild night, raindrops had refreshed the earth.
Through the open window came fresh air, mixing up with the dusty one from the night.
Marion soaked it into her lungs like a dry mush.
She loved the fresh air of Washington; although it was America’s capital, there weren’t too many cars and factories.
Next to her she heard soft breathing, saw the blanket slowly moving up and down.
His eyes were closed, first rays of light were falling on his sleeping body.
This morning was so peaceful, she regretted they had to leave in a few hours.
At least it was them.
He had changed, being softer and more romantic. She wasn’t sure where this had come from- however, she didn’t regret it.
Marion kept watching Indy. They had to get up in a few minutes, a couple of ideas how to wake him went through her mind.
Her slender fingers began to play with the hair on his chest, curling it up and releasing it. He’d always loved her doing that.
This time it didn’t work, he kept asleep like a stone.
Now Marion leaned carefully on her elbows, getting with her face close to his and giving him a quick kiss.
At the moment, when her lips touched his, she felt warm hands grabbing around her body.
“Good morning, sweetheart.”
“Uhh, you fooled me!” she whispered during their ongoing kiss.
“That’s what I love doin’…”
His hands gave her back a nice massage.
They were both entangled into a deep embrace, as somebody knocked on Indy’s bed-room door.
“Indiana, are you there?” It was Brody.
Marion pulled away in shock, covering her nearly naked body under the blanket, so that only her head and shoulders were visible. “Should I leave?”
“No.” He shook his head. “I’m in here, you can come in now.”
“Good…” Marcus stopped as he realized Marion was laying in bed too. “…morning you two. I hope I didn’t disturb you.”
“No.” was Indy’s reply, but a fast look to the ravenhaired woman told him that she was embarrassed.
“What has happened?”
“The police’s going from house to house in search for Marion.”
“That’s not true!”
“I’m afraid so…”
“Where are they now?”
“Just a few houses away, you better hurry up.”
“Thanks.”
“One good news chases the next! Damn! Where’s the wig?”
“On the shelf. Your passport’s there too.”
Marion swung her legs out of the bed, went over to the shelf.
“Oh, nice name, who am I now?”
“Your name’s Heather O’Duncan. You’re from Irland.”
“Can’t guess. What am I doin’ in the states?”
“You’re here for… for a visit. Everything else, improvise. Alright?”
“Okay.”
“Other thing: Dress yourself in an unusual way, just that you don’t look like Marion.”
He stood behind her, watched how her hands turned the passport.
“You better get dressed now.”
She turned her head, eyed his also naked body from head to tip-toes.
“You better get dressed now, too.”
“I’m not in the mood for joking.”
“Neither am I. I’m in my room.”
Somehow Indy was content with how things turned out, but in some way he was nervous, unsure how this adventure may end.
He had the misgivings it would be no happy end.

Marion was standing in front of the mirror, inspecting the reflextion.
The new hair colour fitted perfectly to her sun-tanned skin, however, as far as she knew, irish women were pale and looked kinda maidenly, something she even didn’t when she was a young girl.
Damn Jones, she thought, you know me, couldn’t you have picked something matching?
At a sudden she heard voices at the front door- policemen.
“Hello Dr. Jones, sorry that we disturb you at this time, but we are searching for a woman called Marion Ravenwood. Have you seen her or do you know her?”
She peaked through the slightly opened door.
“I do know her, but we have not talked since- well, it must be 10 years.”
“Do you know where she is staying at?”
“As far as I know she lives in Chicago.”
“Do you live here alone?”
“No, at this time a friend from Ireland lives here too.”
“Where’s he now?”
“She must be in the bathroom.”
“Would you mind calling her?”
“Of course not. Heather? Heather, would you please come out, honey?”
Marion got away from the door, waited a few moments, then left the room.
“What’s up, Indy? Oh, good morning gentlemen!”
“Good morning, miss…”
“O’Duncan, Heather O’Duncan. If I may ask, has something serious happened?”
“No, to appease you, we are just searching for a woman called Marion Ravenwood. Witnesses said they have seen her in Washington. We just wanted to inform you.”
“That’s very kind of you to ensure everyone’s security by walking around the houses. I’d be glad if we had that security in Ireland, too.”
“There are quite few policemen, true, true. You’re not fully irish, are you?”
“Why are you asking?” Marion realized that Indy was getting nervous.
“Your hair, it’s blonde.”
“Eh, my mother’s from Norway.”
“Oh, well, Miss O’Duncan, it was nice to meet you, goodbye, Dr. Jones. If Miss Ravenwood contacts you, please let me know.”
“Sure.”
“Have a nice day, officer!” Marion chirped.
Indy closed the door and stared at her. “Did ya’ve to start a conversation with the policeman?”
“Whaz up, honey? Everything’s okay!”
“But he nearly catched you!”
“It’s not my fault that I have a blonde wig! I had to improvise! You should honour my excuse!”
“Oh yeah? And you should honour that I hide you here!”
Marion looked down, searched for the right words. “I don’t want to start an arguement with you in the morning. Let’s eat and get ready for the flight.”
He watched her leaving for the dining room. Everytime they met he was surprised by her development, seeing her become soft and vulnerable.
“Are you coming?”

“Josh, this’s Rafe. Please call the irish police and check out, if there lives a woman called Heather O’Duncan.”

All the time they sat at the table nobody said a word, they kept totally quiet.
Indy felt guilty, not knowing why. His mind told him to stop the feeling, but he couldn’t. Maybe Marion hid something, maybe she knew soemthing he didn’t, maybe it was wrong to make love so early.
“Marion…”
Her eyes rose from the bottom of the cup of coffee.
“We should leave now, it’s time.”
She nodded.
“What’s wrong? Is there something I should know?”
“No, I just think I shouldn’t have come here.”
“What makes you think that? We’ve beaten the Nazis, remember, nothing’s as worse as that.”
“You make me think so! You always remind me that YOU hide me here, that YOU take care of me! You always pronounce that it’s you! What do you want to accomplish by that? I thought you were my friend who’d help me in every situation without asking for any money or other goods. My impression was wrong, you’re not the man I left nine years ago.”
Indy was speechless, just meeting her bewildered gaze. “Okay, if you think you’ll make it on your own, feel free to leave!”
Marion got up from her chair. “Listen, I’m thankful that you hide me here, share your house with me, but you don’t have to remind me all the time.”
“When did I remind you on that except this morning?”
“It’s not just that. You’re so… so… aggressive, tensed. And I have the feeling it’s because of me.”
“I’m not mixed up or tensed, you are!”
“Well, if you’re angry cause of the wig, it was a joke, heard me, Jones? A joke!”
“Let’s get one thing strait: I’m not mixed up nor tensed, got it?!”
“You are! I know you so long and I feel something’s not okay with you.”
“You’re not my doctor!”
“If you’re telling somebody what’s w-”
“Stop it, Marion, stop it now!” he roared.
Surprised by his rising voice, she stepped back, looking at him with paniced eyes. “I-I’m upstairs, g-getting ready.”
He took a deep breath, why does it have to be so difficult? Especially with this wildcat at his hands. He felt the age creeping into him bit by bit… and Marion perceiving it.
For her he wanted to stay as young as he had always been.

As they were sitting in the car, there was tensed silence.
“I’m sorry.”
“What?” she nearly whispered.
“I said I’m sorry. I didn’t intend to yell.”
“I was just scared, nothing more. I know your temper.”
“So you’re not angry?”
“I was mad at you for 10 years, that’s sufficied I think.”
Houses passed by, laughing children ran down the street, she looked for the last time at the shops of Washington. Over the roofs sat the peek of the Capitol.
After another long silence, Marion was curious. “Do you think this hairstyle fits me, Indy?”
“Don’t have luck with blondes.”
“Oh, I guess that explains it.”
“Your black hair looks better.”
“Thanks. Think there hasn’t been anybody else with whom you started a relationship three times.”
“Honestly… no. You can be proud of yourself.”
She gave him a triumphant smile. “Besides, your irish friend, is she just a friend?”
“Or a lover? Why?”
“Just checking out if I’m allowed to kiss you in public.”
“Keep it for the flight or our arrival in Cairo, then we can celebrate.”

The airport was crowded with policemen, but Marion behaved like she had nothing to do with it.
There he was again: The policeman who had visited them this morning.
“Hello Miss O’Duncan, are you going home?”
“No, we’re going on an archeologic mission.”
“Yes, Dr.Jones is deeply involved into dusty stuff.”
“If you might excuse us now.”
They went into the building, trying to seem calm.
“You’ve done a good job this time, honey.”
“A job? That sounds so serious.”
“It’s serious.”
“Don’t be nervous cause of this crowd, we have beaten the Nazis together, remember?”
“Yeah, we have.”
“Luck seems to be on our side.”
“Don’t be so optimistic, Heather.”
“Since when are you so damn pessimistic, I just don’t get it!? Don’t tell me it’s because of the mileage.”
“No, this time it’s the years.”
They were standing in a row, waiting to ckeck in.
Marion watched a woman with a baby, but without a husband. She thought about what might have happened to him, when she felt a hand on her back.
“Heather, come on, it’s our turn.”
After some time, they were ready to get into the plane.

“Welcome on your flight from Chicago to Cairo. It will last 12 hours. We will serve you two meals during this flight. We wish you a nice stay on our plane.”
“Indy, I feel motioned.”
“So do I. Try to stay calm. We should try to sleep, honey.”
“You’re right. I’m a little tired, didn’t get much sleep tonight.” She said with a smile.
“Me too.” He smiled back. “By the way, why did you wanted to hide yourself when Marcus was about to enter?”
“I just thought that you don’t like to be seen with your ex-lover in bed.”
“It’s alright, Marcus knows me.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“He knows what I feel for you.”
She nodded. “I’d love to kiss you.” she whispered.
His lips went close to her ear. “Keep your passion for our stay in Cairo.”
When he looked at her she seemed dissapointed.

After they had taken their first meal both fell asleep, her head resting on his shoulder.

A few rows behind them a man stopped making notes with the phrase: Have fallen asleep…

Cairo
“Oh, I have missed this city!” Marion exclaimed.
“Yeah, reminds me on a lot of nice things.”
“What for example?”
“The thought of you being dead.”
“Hey! Do you still remember our lil’child?”
“Sure I do. I hated this ape!”
“Why?”
“Cause HE was getting your attention.”
She rolled her eyes. “Children need love.”
“Dr. Jones?” said a beautiful young woman.
Both Indy and Marion turned around.
“I have been looking for you.”
“Who are you?”
“Please come with me!” She took his hand into hers, pulling him with her.
“Where are we going?”
Marion followed them slowly. “Now I know why he loves this city!”

They stopped in front of a house, Indy recognized it.
“Please come in.”
An older woman stood in the door, giving Indy & Marion a warm smile.
“Hello Fayah.”
“I knew you would come, Indy. And who are you?”
“Well, I’m Marion Ravenwood. You’ll recognize me as soon as I have my black hair back. But Indy insistened in…”
“We tell you the whole story when we’re in.”

“So somebody is after you?”
“Yeah, that’s what we think.”
“He talked from the Highest?”
“Yes, that’s the name he used. However, I really know nobody with this name.”
“Sallah told me before he dissapeared, that strange things are happening, a group of foreigners whose language he had never heard before are planning something. They are buying everything they could get for an exhumination.”
“It was a strange language? Marion, are you sure that Marcello’s an Italian?”
“Yeah, pretty sure, although his accent was kinda strange.”
“Fayah, do you know, where Sallah worked before he was missing?”
“Yes, in the desert in the south of Cairo, it was a two day ride with the horse to get to the exhumination.”
“I’m going there tomorrow.”
“I’m coming with you!”
“No, you’re staying here with Fayah.”
“And what if something happens to you? I’m not goin’ to dig your bones out of the hot desert sand!”
“Honey, nothing has killed me so far!”
“Yeah, cause ya had persons who helped you. Remember, WE have beaten the Nazis!”
“Alright, alright. But no complains!”
She smiled.
“You’ll do a really good team. By the way, Indy, why haven’t you married?”
“Me? Married? Guess there’s no woman who’s willing to have such an unsteady life. No…” He shook his head.
“But Marion, why haven’t you married him?”
“Me? Him? Oh, gosh, no! Ya know, it’s always like this: We meet, spend some time together, but then there’s a big arguement and we split up. After ten or nine years we meet again and the same story begins again.”
Fayah and Indy laughed.
“But that means you still have feelings for each other.”
Marion realized Indy stared at her, in attempt to avoid his gaze, she looked down. “You never forget your first love.”
She got up, took the dishes which were standing on the table and went into the kitchen.
He watched her leaving.
“Do you love her if I may ask?”
Indy regarded Fayah with quiet eyes. “Well, she’s one of the very special women in my life. I’ve hurt her once and I’m not sure, if she can fully forgive me.”

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