The anticipation surrounding Eustakio Milenko's return had grown far beyond the borders of Poland, spilling into neighboring countries.
Eustakio was scheduled to give a much-anticipated lecture at the University of Warsaw, recounting his harrowing journey and discoveries in South America. Scientists, students, and ordinary citizens alike flocked to hear what he had to say.
Adventure in a distant land? Groundbreaking scientific findings? No one knew for sure, but Eustakio had always been an eloquent speaker, and now, after such an extraordinary journey, expectations were higher than ever.
Frank sat in the front row, his heart swelling with pride.
The event began with a formal introduction by the university's dean, who praised Eustakio's dedication to science and his resilience. As applause filled the room, Eustakio stepped onto the stage, looking worn yet dignified.
Frank's chest puffed with pride as he watched his father stand before the crowd.
Eustakio began:
"I journeyed to Brazil in search of new insect species, driven by my insatiable curiosity. Like so many Europeans, I saw the vastness of the world as a playground, a place to find what we seek—some search for riches, others for knowledge. For us, South America seemed like an endless frontier, ripe for exploration and discovery.
But soon, the world I thought I knew revealed its limits. Our 'world,' our rules, our understanding—these are not universal. In this other world, there are different laws, feelings, and purposes, and it does not easily submit to being reduced to mere material study.
Our expedition met challenges I never anticipated. We grew weak, sick, and disoriented. One day, we found ourselves surrounded by the indigenous people of the forest. My companions believed that the power of firearms would be enough to protect us, to frighten these people who only had bows and knives. But they were wrong.
We were captured and taken deep into their territory, to their village. There, we were no longer explorers—we became the subjects of their study."
