Arthur's Study

'The setting sun glowed through the large clock face window, casting rays of amber light around the lofty study.

 

The room was filled with many curious items, bizarre taxidermy creatures hung on display, some of avian or mammal form, and some of cephalopod variety.

 

Along side these creatures, various shields of shapes and sizes were scattered along the walls, depicting ornate styles and tribal designs. Muskets, swords and other trinkets were placed alongside large and small picture frames.

 

To the right a varnished grandfather clock ticked away, surrounded by a bust of an Egyptian pharaoh and a bizarre mechanical helmet. To the far right stood a weathered uniform with ornate markings.

 

'My old uniform' Arthur commented, placing a hand on one of the sleeves.

 

'It's seen better days' he remarked.

 

Evelyn looked over to the left, beyond the large spiral staircase stood an ornate green desk piled with trinkets, papers, letters and glasses. Slumped nearby was another stack of papers.

 

'You certainly have a lot of paperwork' she said.

 

'Research papers, documents and other 'confidential' items' he said, shrugging his shoulders.

 

Evelyn walked over to the desk, a large leather armchair sat nearby, next to it was a small table with a leather bound sketchbook.

 

She picked it up, brushing the thin layer of dust that had accumulated on it's surface.

 

She flicked through, studying the dozens of sketches and notes, many depicted monsters and creatures, along with observational notes, anatomy cross sections and up close details.

 

'So many different creatures' she gasped 'You drew all of these?'

 

'I find it useful for my research' Arthur said modestly 'It's good to make a note of what you're encountering'.

 

'How long have you been doing this for?' Evelyn queried.

 

Arthur scratched his head, slightly avoiding eye contact for a few seconds.

 

'Feels like a lifetime' he laughed.

Done