magisternihil's 100-word story for January 22, 2026

magisternihil wrote the following micro-story on Hectalex on January 22, 2026. Each story on Hectalex is inspired by a daily visual prompt and must be exactly 100 words.

“Where does this hallway lead?” Kelly asked. The tour had been unsettling but seemed to help Rusty. “Not a hallway. Showers,” he said. He stood stock still, unwilling to move into the room. “Mrs. Ondmor will be unhappy about the filthy floor.” Kelly stepped in, and saw he was right, of course. He would know. She wondered what it must have been like for a small child to stand under the tall shower heads. “Come on, Rusty. We don’t have to go in.” He visibly relaxed. She made a mental note to tell his doctor. This was definitely breakthrough material.

Want to write flash fiction like this? Join the daily challenge at Hectalex.com and discover how powerful 100 words can be.