People don't change. They just grow old. How many wives had high hopes for their husbands to change, to overcome their weaknesses, inclinations to drink, cheat and gamble? How many adults were surprised by their childhood friends met accidentally after twenty or thirty years who hadn't changed a bit? They had a few wrinkles here and there, possibly they gained a few pounds....

Melquiades had a few long weeks to fulfill his plans. He was given the exact address of the palace occupied by Jacob, he knew perfectly well about the habits of the ruler, about the chambers he visited, his associates, co-workers, and enemies. Every time Gemma paid him a visit, he paid attention to her every word and noted in mind every trace that...

It was a strange experience to be forced into a train with hundreds of other people. John was intimidated and lost trust in the guards administering the process. He shouted that he came from N., that he was there originally to conduct cultural research but no one believed him. They assessed him, basing on his clothes, hair, and beard. They noticed that people...

There were four trains running at the same time in four different directions. One of them was heading to K. It was a modern train, half-empty, transporting a few commuters who were working in N. and were allowed to pay a visit to their family members and friends if those were still alive. In one seat by the window was sitting a half-conscious...