Maxim Bryzgalov

A most unusual teacher of Mari history and culture appears in school. Instead of announcing the topic of the lesson he retells three tales to the children. These are modern interpretations of the legends of Onar, Irga and Chotkar, the Mari legendary heroes, "the last pagans in Europe". But the deputy school master senses something fishy and tries to expose the teacher.

Four friends, by the time they were fifty, had achieved everything they dreamed of: good jobs, substantial savings, and one of them even had a seat in parliament. It turns out, however, that with age, money stops bringing joy, as do travel, expensive gifts, and even beautiful women. Suddenly, all four discover a new pastime that brings a storm of positive emotions—helping people. Thus, the friends become secret patrons of smart and talented people.