Indiana Jones and the Empire of the Sun

Epilogue

The summer heat in Connecticut feels mild after what we've been through. It's only mid-summer, but it feels like it should be autumn by now. The sun shines through the leaves of the trees along sidewalks and the world lives on, oblivious to the amazing things we've seen. Our hands are full with the discoveries we've made, but comparatively, it's like a vacation. It also gives Marcus and I time to relax.

As for the idol, we were able to reach Mexico City and contact people back home to intercept the package before it arrived. Russo's men were caught trying to steal it on delivery, and long story short, their mugshots were very flattering on the front page of the paper.

"You didn't have to come to the airport," Alice says modestly.

"Oh, come on now. We've all earned a nice vacation," I reply, grinning.

"And you're both really staying in Connecticut for the summer?"

"I think we have lots of work to do, what with the idol and all," says Marcus.

"Besides, I could use some time back home to cool off."

"Well, you both have the number of the hotel and remember to write to me if you need anything." She gives us each one last hug before walking through the gate. Once she's out of sight, Marcus and I start strolling back to the exit.

"Was nice to have her around on that one," Marcus says.

"Yeah, sure was. Now we just have the whole summer ahead of us."

"I have to say it will be nice to have a break," Marcus says as a warm breeze blows our way. "Do you still think about it? The temple and the curse and all?" I pause for a moment before responding.

"Marcus, if I've learned anything as an archaeologist, it's that you don't mess with this stuff. There are rules, lines to be drawn. You can't just dig stuff up because you think you have the right." Marcus remains silent. "But like I said, we've got the summer ahead of us. Why don't we just take it easy?"

As I hail a cab, I gaze up at the sky and feel the warm sunbeams gently caressing my face. I think back to the events of that July and feel a small longing in my chest. A longing for the excitement and the rush of adrenaline. But I just said it myself. For now, I'll take it easy.