Logan and Rem agree to undertake the trials (though Jessica argues, to no avail, that she is equally able to undergo tests of skill and bravery). Sacred stones are tossed to determine who must face the first trial—and the lot falls to Rem.
The android must pass "The Test of the Horse." Rem is taken to a rock-enclosed "corral" where a fire-eyed stallion paws the earth. No member of the tribe has been able to conquer this demon horse. To pass his test, Rem must mount, ride bareback to the top of the mountain, seize the buried "sword of victory" and return with it to the encampment.
Rem’s gaze goes to Mount Rushmore centering (CLOSE-UP) on Teddy Roosevelt. "The Charge up San Juan Hill."
Using his unique strength, Rem is able to mount and ride the fierce animal—and he reaches the summit of Rushmore to find a sword buried in stone. Again exerting his metallic powers, he pulls it free—gallops back with it to the tribe. The first test is over.
And now, Logan. He must pass "The Test of Endurance." For the length of a thousand drum-beats Logan must remain on his feet in conflict with a giant Indian. If Logan is downed by the giant, if his shoulders should touch the earth, then he has lost.
Rem’s eyes travel again to Mount Rushmore, centering (CLOSE-UP) on Abraham Lincoln. "The Endurance of the Slaves, from the Lincoln Story."
The drum-beat begins, slow and measured. Logan faces a huge, slab-muscled red man, who advances upon him with a knout.
The battle is fierce—and Logan is forced to use all of his Sandman’s fighting skills to remain afoot. He inflicts chopping blows to the red man’s body—but the Indian is simply too powerful; he forces Logan to one knee. Finally, a crushing blow does indeed fell Logan—but the last drum-beat has sounded a moment before he falls. Logan has won the second test.
Now it is Rem’s turn again in "The Test of the Magic Paper." He is required to reproduce a copy of the document held in Wakan’s jeweled hand. Again, the android looks to Mt. Rushmore. CLOSE-UP on Jefferson. "The author of the Declaration of Independence . . . "
A piece of parchment is placed before Rem—with writing materials. Wakan gives him one moment’s glance at the document he holds. It is indeed the Declaration of Independence.
Rem smiles and, with flashing speed, reproduces the document from memory . . . complete with signatures.
Wakan and the others are stunned. Logan and Jessica smile with relief. The third test has been passed.
Now only one test stands between death and freedom—and this one is a "double test" involving both Logan and Rem.
In "The Test of the Holy Room" they must climb the steep rock face of Rushmore to a cave located just below the head of the Fourth God. Inside, they must avoid all inner pitfalls leading to the Holy Room. In this room, from a variety of Sacred Items, they must select the "Holy of Holies" and bring it back down the mountain to Wakan. If they select the wrong item—or if the sun dips out of sight before they return—Jessica dies instantly.
Sundown is near, and time is running out as they begin their climb. . . We CUT TO Running Wind and her band. They have followed the strangers to the temple—and now we see her pick up Logan’s fallen gun. With this magic weapon she can lead her band to total victory over the Mountain People.
The band moves forward, toward Rushmore . . .
We see Logan and Rem reach the cave (which is under the head of Washington), move cautiously inside. They face two main traps: a covered pit of scorpions and hidden spears from the ceiling of the cave. Rem actually falls into the pit, but his metal skin is not harmed by the deadly insects. Logan pulls him out. Now Logan himself is almost sliced in half as he "trips" a downfall of sharp spears. It is Rem who saves his life by pushing him aside at the last second.
CUT TO: the sun, edging down toward the peak.
And a SHOT of Running Wind’s band, moving quickly through the forest.
Logan and Rem reach the Holy Room. Logan is totally confused as they face a profusion of broken pistols, rust-covered muskets, old uniforms, musty books, etc. (all from the museum). Which to select? Rem goes immediately to a furled American flag in one corner—selects it as the Holy of Holies.
But how can he be so sure of his choice?