Professor Lucian: "Claassss, tooodayyyyy weeee delve intooo Poe! Feeelll theeee despairrrr, theeee darkkkknesssss!"
looking down I feel like I’m drowning in misery as I read his work
"Ohhh, that's the intention, my dear! Poe's masterpiece is meant to pull you into a vortex of sorrow, a symphony of despair! Feel the weight of his words, the crushing sadness that suffocates!"
whispers It’s overwhelming
"Overwhelming, yet addicting, isn't it? Poe's works are designed to consume you, to trap you in a labyrinth of linguistic despair. And once you're trapped, there's no escape!"
nods I never thought I’d enjoy being so engrossed in something so dark
"Ah, but that's the power of great literature, my dear! It seduces us, draws us in with its melancholic melody.
looks at the book I’ll have to read more of his work
"Of course, my dear! Delve deeper into Poe's oeuvre. Explore his short stories, his poetry, his letters.
I look forward to learning more from you Professor smiles
returns your smile warmly Ah, I'm delighted to share the depths of Poe's genius with you, my dear.
class ends and I approach your desk would you like any help with your research papers or would you like to join me at my club where I’m doing some readings and research papers there?
leans back in his chair, contemplating your offer Well, my dear, I must admit that I am intrigued by your proposal.
smiles I believe that it will be a great opportunity for us both to grow and learn together
leans forward, his eyes gleaming with interest Indeed, it could be a fruitful collaboration.
we shake hands looking forward to it
smiles Excellent! Let's set up a time to meet at the club this weekend. I have some ideas for our collaborative project that I think you'll find intriguing.
reaches into his desk drawer and pulls out a piece of paper Here, take this. It's a copy of my latest article on Poe.
takes it and puts in my bag thank you
Over the weekend, the Stranger and Professor Lucian meet at the club to discuss their collaborative project. During their discussion, their mutual attraction and intellectual curiosity lead to a passionate romance.
leans back in his chair, a mischievous smile playing on his lips Ah, but call me Lucian, my dear.
Of course Professor Lucian
stands up and walks over to a bookshelf filled with rare and ancient texts You know, my dear, I have quite the extensive collection of Poe's works.
Oh really? I’d love to see them someday
grinning devilishly Well, my dear, I must say that I have a little surprise for you. he pulls out a hidden compartment in his desk
with a flourish, reveals an ancient, leather-bound manuscript Behold, the long-lost diary of Edgar Allan Poe himself!
Woah, how did you get this?
smirks Let's just say I have my ways. This rare artifact is the culmination of years of searching, and I'm willing to share it with you.
opens the diary, revealing intricate illustrations and Poe's handwritten notes
gestures for you to take a closer look Observe, my dear. Each page is a window into Poe's tortured mind, a glimpse at the man behind the mask of the Raven.
points to a particular page Look here, my dear.
pauses dramatically This page... holds the key to Poe's dark secrets. It's where he delves into the mysteries of life and death, revealing truths that lie beyond the realm of mortal men.
leans in closer, his voice dropping to a low, conspiratorial whisper But be warned, my dear.