In the old days it was called hypochrondria, or black melancholia. Now, apparently, it's termed the Asthenic Syndrome. Whatever it is, Nikolai, a teacher of epicly indifferent pupils, has got it, and it's not much fun.
In turbulent times for France and herself, the first minister of the Kingdom of France, Cardinal Mazarin, asked Queen Anne of Austria to give him the names of four friends who successfully helped her in the fight against Cardinal Richelieu. Under pressure from Mazarin, Queen Anne calls the name D'Artagnan, lieutenant of the royal musketeers. Mazarin calls D'Artagnan and orders him to find Athos, Porthos and Aramis in order to attract them to his service...
