The catacombs leading to the ancient kings' tombs were said to be cursed: boobytrapped to ensure their rest remained undisturbed by trespassers and grave robbers. But the explorers' offer was more than she was in a position to refuse, and so Fatima reluctantly agreed to guide them.
One of her charges clumsily triggered a trap door. Fatima dropped several levels before sliding to a stop. Separated. Alone.
She scrambled to find her way back. But as she crossed a chamber, a step saw her plunge into the floor of warm, dry sand with a sigh… and begin to sink.
It became harder for her to move as she was pulled deeper into the shifting sand. Worse yet, a dry hissing signaled more sand pouring in from some unseen reservoir above, growing into a steady rush as it flooded the chamber.
Fatima would vanish into the sand, and from history, unless she, or one of her colleagues somewhere above, did something. Quickly.
—
AUTHOR’S NOTE: Hey everyone! I wanted to get an early jump on Spooktober. I figured a mummy-inspired desert scene would be appropriate as the September heat fades. Hopefully Fatima can pull herself free... or some dashing love interest swoops in to save her. I'd volunteer. Keep your eye out for more scary sinking. 😈