Cursed Artifact

Craft a story around an artifact that’s supposed to be cursed, and the archaeologist who discovers it.

This prompt allows you to explore the lore surrounding the artifact, its origins, and the alleged curse. What happens when the archaeologist interacts with the artifact? Is the curse real or just a superstition? What consequences ensue? This encourages contemplating the boundaries of belief and skepticism, the morality of disturbing ancient cultural artifacts, and the tension between scientific curiosity and the fear of the unknown.