David Wellington's Fear competition

I recently tried my hand at entering this competition ( see the wonderful web site here http://davidwellingtonsfearproject.com/) and forgot to read the rules carefully enough, as usual getting carried away with the writing. I was out of the rules as I had published a book, and the competition is only open to those who haven't, but here is my attempt anyway!

Good luck to all those who take part, and I look forward to reading those scary stories!

The Grimoire’s Lock

Trickling with sweat, shivering in the half-light, the thief worked at the book’s lock.

After climbing, walking and scratching his way to the hidden cave, there it was: the prize of a lifetime.

Years of research. Searching, reading, looking, hoping to believe. He knew the dangers hidden here. The Cave of Death. He took a sip from his flask. His hands shook. Now, concentrating, brow furrowed, he faced the last test: opening the book. Only those with hearts truly blackened by adventure would survive.

He’d performed all sorts of rituals before. This one would be the best.

Candle wax dribbled across the table, sculpting itself into strange shapes. The thief paused, gulping air, hope and luck. Pop. The locket swung open. He seized the book, ready to open it. He spoke the words of the curse, then lifted the cover.

He read the first lines. Laughing, he knew he’d survived.

Then the owner came roaring from the pages.

“You will be the lock of the Grimoire now,” said the voice, “and doomed to guard a legend from no one.”

The thief screamed. Metal seared up his arms, through his veins, and held him fast. His fingers curled and bent. He became the lock, fixed with a click to the Grimoire’s spine.

A warning to thieves and adventurers: even with a blackened heart, if it is not yours, do not take it.