The scorching heat of the desert sun bore down on James and his companions as they trekked deeper into the heart of the cursed land. The group remained vigilant, their weapons drawn, eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of danger. The desert had grown increasingly hostile, the plagues of the Pharaoh manifesting in new and horrifying ways. Rivers of molten sand twisted and turned, forming barriers that required careful navigation. Vultures with glowing red eyes circled overhead, their screeches echoing ominously across the dunes.