The Old and the Restless

This piece was written for Spring 2024 Writing Battle.

Prompts:

500 words max

Genre: Medical Drama

Location: A museum

Character: An optimist

The Old and the Restless

            Edward halted, his attention stolen by the sarcophagus beside him. No novice to the role of a museum curator, he knew sarcophagi typically were quiet. This one, however, rattled.

Something pounded from within. The sarcophagus quaked and the lid separated from the base. A bandaged leg extended from inside. Tattered cloth spilled onto the floor. A guttural groan sounded as Edward dared to peer inside. His stomach curdled as mummified eyes, which looked like wilted and rolled fig leaves, stared back at him.

“Thank, Horus!” The Mummy stepped out. “You help me,” he said, noticing Edward. “I want to rest.”

“Me? What can I do?”

“My legs. They scream to be moved night and day.” He tore the remaining bandages from his feet. “Fetch me your healers.”

Edward retrieved his phone, unsure of whether to call doctors or archaeologists. Unlikely either had seen such a problem before. Two hours later, the doctor’s heels clacked on the museum floor as she approached.

“You will give me rest,” The mummy said.

She smiled at the creature. “I’ve never had a patient this…old, but I’m sure we can fix you up!” She put her bag on the floor and pulled out her stethoscope. “I’m Dr. Friese. What’s your name, darlin’?”

“I am Aken II. Give me rest.”

Dr. Friese examined the Mummy as she would any other patient. She tested his reflexes and listened to his lack of heartbeat. “Could you remove some of these bandages?”

“Absolutely not!” Edward yelled. It was still his job to protect the artifacts.  

She smiled. “You certainly are dead, Mr. Aken! How amazing.”

“From your description, I believe you’re suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome. It’s quite annoying, but we do have options.” She gave a soft giggle and rummaged in her bag. “Usually, we would correct an iron deficiency or prescribe medications, but since your circulatory system no longer…circulates, we are left with natural remedies. Not to worry! I have just the thing!”

“I want rest,” Aken groaned.

Dr. Friese beamed. “This foot binding is designed specifically for restless legs. It vibrates slightly, which can relieve the symptoms. I also recommend you get out and stretch every decade or so.” She hummed to herself as she coiled a wrap past each ankle. She gently guided him back into the sarcophagus. “Time to rest.”

The Mummy laid his head back and breathlessly sighed with a creaking sound.

Edward and Dr. Friese hoisted the top of the sarcophagus back into place. Edward wiped sweat from his brow, struggling to catch his breath before he said, “Thank you. None of the other doctors would come.”

“I just had a feeling this would be worth my time, and I was right. Who else can say they’ve treated a mummy? And one who’s learned as much English.”

“I’m glad you were so hopeful.”

“Well, call me if you find any other unusual patients.” She packed her bag, shook Edward’s hand and walked away, heels clacking as she went.

         The sarcophagus remained quiet.