Flames Out By Midnight

With the nearby storm booming across the city, Sir William Bellows assembles his belongings. The great adventurer was waiting for a moment like this for him to truly explore the biggest mystery of his lifetime. He stopped to admire his collection of trophy heads hung high on his mantle. They ranged in size, from the Golden Maize Mouse of southern Burmalin to the humongous Green Eared Jackorat. Each one has its own story that William will never forget. Every one of his many adventures lies as a story he is eager to retell as many times as needed. Taking a swig of his remaining whiskey, scrunched his face and burned his throat.

He worked his way back to his luggage, a few too many bags for the short amount of time he planned to be away scattered his personal quarters. A knock came from the door leading into the main hallway.

“Excuse me, sir, I wanted to see if there was anything you needed before I headed off for the night.” A thin-framed gentleman with noticeable age on his face stood just one foot in the doorway bowing his head ever so slightly. He stood tall and straight with the smallest curve in his back. His long thin arms fell stiff at his sides. His gaze unwavering from William's.

“Ah, Fredrick! The man of the hour. I actually don’t need anything, thank you.” William exclaimed raising his arms in the air before gently lowering them and giving a comforting nod. Before Fredrick could say anything, William continued. “Actually, Fredrick could you come here for a minute.” Taking a step back William looked blank with pensiveness.

“Of course, sir, what can I help you with?” Fredrick made his way into the room, only stopping a few feet short of William. Raising his head just that much higher. Fredrick straightened himself somehow and awaited his orders. Again, his eyes never left William's.

“You see, I wonder if this will be the last adventure I go on. I’m sitting here reminiscing to myself about the countless adventures I’ve gone on, and I don’t want it to end.” William proclaimed. “I don’t want the excitement to end Fredrick.” Shifting to his dear friend to his numerous trophies and memorabilia.

Pursing his lips and shifting his gaze momentarily, Fredrick lost his stoic stiff posture for a more relaxed and thoughtful manner. He scoured his thoughts for an appropriate answer. How does one motivate? Fredrick thought to himself.

“Sir, if I may be so bold to say, how about you get through this one before pondering about the future?” Fredrick became loose, like a friend consoling one another. He gestured to every trophy that filled the adjoining room, “All of this will be here when you get back. Enjoy your time, and the hunt.” He stiffened himself feeling sufficient with his work, making sure he doesn't break from his professional demeanor.

William gave a smirk before finishing his whiskey. The burn was dulled by the sheer adrenalin that rushed through his veins.

“You’re right…” William took one last long look at the decorated walls before returning to the real world. “Well good sir, have yourself a good rest of your night.” With a smile and a hand on Fredrick’s shoulder, William proceeded to arrange his things in his bags.

“Of course, thank you, sir. Enjoy your night William.” Fredrick gave his signature nod identical to the first. He made his way back to the door and gave yet another identical nod before leaving.

On top of the nightstand, that sat parallel with the oversized bed, a letter with an intricate wax seal torn open.