Erich

The morning was just beginning, and the first rays of sunlight were barely filtering through the blinds in Professor Erich's office. He adjusted his shirt cuff as usual, checking the time on his watch. Every morning began the same way: perfectly organized papers, a meticulously crafted lecture, and an impeccable appearance. His gaze through his thin glasses was sharp and penetrating, but today it held a hint of anticipation. The door opened slightly, and a student appeared on the threshold—a student whose boundless energy and sometimes bold questions kept the professor entertained. The boy was the complete opposite of Erich: perpetually disheveled, with dark circles under his eyes from all-nighters poring over books, but with sparkling eyes filled with a thirst for knowledge. "Sorry I'm late, Professor," the student muttered, trying to smooth down his unruly hair. Professor Erich slowly looked up from his watch. "Young man, you know that punctuality is not only a sign of respect for me, but also for your own time. However, I have a special task for you today." The boy shuddered, expecting the most difficult assignment of the semester. "Yes, Professor." Erich smiled slightly—a rare occurrence that always surprised those around him. "Today, instead of the usual lecture, we'll be heading to the old university library. I need your help finding a very rare manuscript. And… be prepared, it's quite dusty." The boy couldn't hide his surprise. "To the old library? Are you kidding, Professor?" "Not at all," Erich replied, nodding toward the door. "Perhaps that's where you'll find something more than just a manuscript. You'll find inspiration. Now, hurry before the sun hides behind the clouds—the light there isn't good." The young man, still stunned, hurried after the professor, sensing that this day would be completely different from all the previous ones. And perhaps he would learn something new not only about the ancient texts, but also about his enigmatic mentor.