At the end of National Treasure: Book of Secrets, Ben Gates and his team successfully locate the lost City of Gold, Cibola, deep beneath Mount Rushmore. The climax involves navigating a treacherous chamber where the group faces a life-threatening situation, ultimately leading to a critical decision that resolves the main conflict and ensures their survival.
The Climax in the City of Gold
The final moments of the film are set within the magnificent, yet perilous, City of Gold. Ben, his father Patrick, Abigail Chase, Riley Poole, and the antagonist, Mitch Wilkinson, find themselves trapped. A crucial part of their escape hinges on a mechanism that requires someone to hold open a heavy door, risking being caught by a rapidly rising water surge.
Mitch Wilkinson's Change of Heart
Initially, Mitch Wilkinson, driven by his obsession with claiming credit for the discovery and clearing his family's name, attempts to force Ben to sacrifice himself by holding the door. However, a sudden and powerful surge of water shifts the situation dramatically. Instead of Ben, Mitch finds himself in the position where he is holding the door open. This life-or-death moment triggers a profound change in Mitch. He genuinely apologizes to Ben for his earlier doubts about Ben's family and the treasure hunters' true intentions. Recognizing the immense historical significance of the discovery and acknowledging Ben's integrity, Mitch requests that he receive a share of the credit for finding the lost city.
The Escape and Aftermath
With Mitch holding the door, Ben and the others are able to escape the chamber safely. This act of selflessness from Mitch allows the protagonists to emerge from the City of Gold with the knowledge of its location and proof of its existence.
The successful discovery of Cibola leads to several significant outcomes:
- Pardon for Ben's Ancestor: The information found within the City of Gold, particularly the truth behind the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, finally exonerates Ben's great-great-grandfather, Thomas Gates, from the long-standing accusation of being a conspirator.
- Government Protection: The City of Gold is secured by the U.S. government, ensuring its preservation and study.
- Mitch's Fate: While Mitch initially faced arrest, the film implies a more lenient outcome due to his final actions, perhaps even fulfilling his request for partial credit in the discovery's revelation.
- Reaffirmation of Family: The adventure further strengthens the bonds within the Gates family, proving their dedication to uncovering historical truths and preserving national treasures.
The film concludes with Ben Gates being asked by the President of the United States about the missing page from the President's secret book, hinting at more historical mysteries for the future.
Key Outcomes for Major Characters
The resolution of National Treasure: Book of Secrets brings significant closure and new beginnings for its core characters:
| Character | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Ben Gates | Successfully clears his ancestor's name, discovers Cibola, and solidifies his reputation as a historical expert. |
| Mitch Wilkinson | Finds redemption by aiding in the escape and likely receives some recognition for the discovery. |
| Patrick Gates | Sees his family's honor restored and participates in the grand discovery. |
| Abigail Chase | Remains a key partner in Ben's adventures and their romantic relationship continues to flourish. |
| Riley Poole | Provides crucial tech support and comedic relief, continuing his role as a loyal friend. |
Ultimately, the ending of National Treasure 2 is a triumph for the Gates family, a redemption for their rival, and a monumental discovery that reshapes historical understanding, leaving the door open for future adventures.
