The Engineer

​A child was recognized early on for having precocious mechanical abilities.

Taking things apart soon turned into being able to put things together, and they were appropriately provided with the resources in order to develop these skills.

The child found themselves at an institute for advanced study; a sort of interdisciplinary think tank where thought leaders went to think deep thoughts.

The child soon endeared himself to many of the academics there and he found himself with many mentors, however there was one who the child grew quite fond of.

He was an engineer known for his genius-level intellect who was also the child’s quartermaster when he stayed over; providing him with his bedquarters and meals.

But he would also give the child logic puzzles that they would have to solve before most every activity besides eating and sleeping:

Every time they woke up, a puzzle.

Every time they came to see him, a puzzle, and another one when they left to be solved before the end of the day.

Every time they came back to the institution, a puzzle.

Every night before they went to sleep, a puzzle, with the answer given in the morning along with the next day’s puzzle.

Instead of this being a drag for the child, they took to the challenge, even though the puzzles often challenged them;

...but no matter how difficult the challenge was, the correct answer was always given back to their mentor.

One day, when the child had grown into a mature young adult, they wanted to explore new horizons; and this meant leaving the institution.

“I want to thank you for your presence here and the input you have given.” said the mentor.

“Let me give you today’s puzzle.”

“But how will I be able to give you an answer if I will no longer be here?”

“That is no matter, give the answer at your next destination.”