Arthur, curiosity overwhelming …show more content…
Should you attempt to refine yours, then it will come out twisted and distorted. Heed this warning, and if you are wise, you shall fling the paw into the fire right away. Arthur glanced at the roaring, cackling fire, his eyes settling upon the flames that danced and twirled eagerly, like a siren waiting to lure its prey. Arthur laughed – something he had not done since he had learned of his diagnosis, a year ago – his mind flicking through the endless dreams that would come true.
“Why should I give up my dreams? Why should I chuck away this paw and relinquish my life in a smothering fire? I am a soldier, I’ve fought bravely and valiantly, I do not deserve to die and I shall not!”
The enigmatic man shook his head very slowly and walked out of the room. The eerie loneliness crept onto Arthur’s shoulders and the warmth of the fire seemed to die away. The candles flickered and Arthur was left, deserted, amongst the grim fumes, the silencing emptiness, the dark isolation and what he thought was his salvation. Arthur ambled through the market and back home. It was late at night, the stars were already clear in the sky, and both Arthur’s wife and child were both fast asleep. Sitting himself on his grandfather’s chair, Arthur took out the monkey’s paw and eyed his treasure curiously. Its five, furry, grotesque fingers seemed to be alive, twitching abnormally and