Spectrofon #17 01 февраля 1996

Новеллы     Игры

Fantasy - short story on a computer game, "Lords of Chaos".

           FANTASY



   We bring to your attention a great deal of material on the 
game "LORDS OF CHAOS". Pass call Andrew Shkolnikova - author 
short stories, written explanation of this interesting

game.


           BRIEF INTRODUCTION


   Describe the game "Lords of Chaos" is not necessary: ​​its 
detailed description is placed in the book "Computer Worlds 2"

and "Best Game 5." Large, generalized
description of the game can also be found in the second
number of electronic newspapers "ON-LINE". Incidentally, in 
Moscow, "Computer worlds" can be purchased at the bureau 
"Inforkoma on Novy Arbat, and, of course, on radio markets in 
the Tsarina and Mitino. 



   Nevertheless, just in case briefly
describe the spells that are in the "Lord".
Initially, the magician is given a certain amount of experience 
points (experience points), to which he can improve his 
physical characteristics. And the rest can be type spells. The 
same spell can be bought several times: from this its strength 
increases. For example, double Call centaur spell allows you to 
call the two centaurs, and yet remain Single spell. 


   And yet, before moving on to the list
spells one thing that I do not
just figured out: In his first move your
wizard can not move, but only
magic and pick up items if they
is there where he stands. The same applies to
beings, which he will first turn.



   And now - magic!


   I. BEINGS. They all share one thing -
they are very different. Among them are miners, soldiers, 
horse-riding establishment. Many are able to fly. There are 
even invisible, or who can walk through walls.



   Best of all in the battle dragons, and they even know how to 
breathe fire. But to call the dragon, you must have a boiler 
and a dragon weed (Dragon herb).



   A few creatures - the undead. Usual
by them not to kill, kill the undead can
just another undead, fire or magic (in
Specifically, enchanted weapons).


   II. Potion. Very different - Stealth
(Invisibility), security (protection), strength
(Strength), velocity (speed), healing
(Healing), flight (flying). And superzele
(Super potion) - it immediately raises the speed, endurance, 
strength and protection. 

   The hardest thing - remember which ingredient for a potion 
needed. And, of course, always need a boiler. Typically, the 
boiler potions enough for four sips.



   Here's what what you need:

apple (apple) - for healing potions;

mistletoe (mistletoe) - potion for strength;

clover (clover) - for a potion of protection;

crystal (crystal) - for a potion of invisibility;

fairy wings (fairy wing) - potion for flight;

Sulfur (sulph) - potion for speed;

Amber (ambergris) - for superzelya.



   III. COMBAT MAGIC. This includes spells, just beating the 
enemy: magic attack (magic attack), magic arrow (magic bolt) 
and a magic lightning (magic lightning). Lightning is different 
from other most affected area.



   More in this group curse (curse),
which causes bleeding from the enemy, and
that some time later dies.


   Oh, and can be attributed to this group
fire magic (magic fire), Velcro
(Gooey blob) and liana (tangle vine). They
constrain the movement of the enemy and hurt someone who was 
careless enough to stop them. 


   IV. ORDINARY MAGIC. This group may
include teleport (teleport), magic
Shield (magic shield), flood (flood):
it extinguishes the fire, and it is quite possible to drown.


   This group includes more trivial things: enchant - fascinate 
weapons, so that it gets better and can kill the undead. 
Subordination (subversion) - if you are very lucky, it will 
reassign you to enemy creature.



   The last spell - magic eye; it
allows both to see the point in
which is directed, and also see
all invisible.


                  *


   And finally, before moving on to
story: the hero and of some of the
referred to "behind the scenes" I borrowed from
Jack Vance. In my defense, I can say that he Mazirian die, so I 
decided that he no longer needed him, and revived him.




(C) Andrew Shkolnikov, 1996.


         Jack Vance is greatly appreciated.

         Do not tell him about it.


             FORBIDDEN WORLDS


    (Based on the game "LORDS OF CHAOS")


   - He is killed! Rugar, he's certainly
killed! Or die now! - Little orange man running around the 
room, excitedly waving his arms.



   - Do not be! - Artificially surprised Rugar. - How did you 
get that? 


   - Well, of course! The portal is closed - now, if he was 
alive, he would never get out! As you yourself do not 
understand? 


   - Stop tantrum. - Rugar, though
not moving his head, however, did not take his eyes from the 
Elbe chilling, as if prishpilivaya him to the floor.



   - You Torquemada thought it would be
so entertaining walk? Killed,
to burn with stones and home? As I sometimes
I regret that he had killed Pandeluma. He had a wacky ideas 
about chaos, but it was the IAC! And I have done a foolish 
think - and here, please stay with you, a nobody. Well now at 
least one nonentity became less.



   - Rugar! - Shocked Elba froze
with a ridiculous throw up his hands. -How can you be?


   - If you've calmed down - just contemptuously threw Rugar - 
may think Who Killed Torquemada.



   - But ... How do I know? He ... Then
is, I do not ... Black Heaven! This Mazirian! - From the 
excitement of Elba again ran, choking on the words. - Of 
course! Pair years ago there was a rumor that he is alive ... he

knows the way to the Forbidden Worlds ... He always
feuded with the Lords of Chaos! Rugar, all
converges! This is exactly Mazirian!


   Rugar with a cold smile, looking at
Elba, conveniently stretched out on his black
throne. This throne was a masterpiece. Modest, almost devoid of
jewelry, he nevertheless hit her
beauty - cold and inhuman. The man could hardly even just to sit
on this throne, and even more comfortable stretch. Rugar but 
now was in his true form - at home, he never changed the look, 
do not play the man. 


   Elba, finally catching the eye Rugar, stopped abruptly on 
the spot. Somehow does this look told him all at once, and he 
could barely stay on his feet. 


   - You know, right? - Said bitterly Elbe
somehow immediately calmed down. -I knew even then ... Two 
years ago ... All this time he knew - And did not warn us! 
Torquemada went to Wood, indeed, as the walk. And you

silent - that you lose? Torquemada prihlopnet Maziriana - 
excellent. Mazirian prihlopnet Torquemada - too anything. Big 
deal, Junior Lord! But the great Rugar learns by the enemy!



   Rugar smiled back, clenched
lips - or that replaced his lips.


   - Good for you. Not bad ... for a redneck.
You do not even have the courage to think out
end.


   Elba, of course, understand who may still donate Rugar, had 
the sense to remain silent. 


                  *


   Mazirian finally dropping a tough
band, and a heavy cloak of a magician, luxuriated in a hot tub, 
leaning back so that the water touched the nape. Everything went

even better than he dared hope. And although
body ached terribly, though again ached two hundred year old 
scars from the whiplash of trees - it was filled with joy. 
Failed! And how did it!



   Only once in a hundred thousand years gives access to three 
Forbidden World - the three worlds, of which there are legends, 
which dream of all magicians. And then in each

The world can stay only a few hours - or three hundred thousand 
years. 


   In memory of the people did not survive, who is
powerful gods and demons of antiquity
Forbidden Worlds are created and why. Normal
man they do not need and nothing: It is forbidden - and 
chudnenko, let it remain! The ordinary man in the Forbidden 
Worlds do not get, and does not want it there. Only mages rush 
there, arrogantly trying to pass between worlds, bypassing the 
portal and disappear ever knows where - and all for the sake of 
treasure Forbidden Worlds.



   It does not hurt-and expensive it is treasure. Zolotishko, 
pebbles - all as expected, but ... do not get rich on this, do 
not stand treasures such hazards. Yet when a couple of hours 
open portal, the greatest magicians risking everything, go to 
the Forbidden Worlds, and the other powerless to grind their 
teeth. For each pebble, each ingot or an old sword from

hoards of Worlds imbued with magical energy, so much so that if 
all three treasures to give most normal village witch, yeah

if it does not burn down such a force, it will be
its power and authority is not much smaller than
were at the very Arhinekromanta Fandaala.


   And as if that was not enough, or
a strange sense of humor was the creator
Forbidden Worlds, only acts in them
one more rule: each kill increases
energy mage-killer, and a double - if killed
He personally, and not stooges - the creation of
own. That's why magicians are afraid of small forbidden worlds: 
shake, and vozhdeleyut and vozhdeleyut, trembling. For now go 
to the Forbidden Worlds of the powerful Lords of Chaos - 
Torquemada, Elba Smogg himself a terrible Rugar. Torquemada and 
the Elbe were used by people until they surrendered the 
Darkness. As for Rugar - say it's not the man he is and is not 
a demon. They say that his power is immeasurable - both 
ordinary and magical. It is said that he was strongest in the 
ancient and wise race of people, dragons, but it was the heart 
of Darkness and she changed it a hundred times by increasing its

force; and the tribe abandoned him. And others
say that he somehow is the heart of darkness, the living 
embodiment of Chaos. A lot of what they say. Once upon a time 
stood on Mazirian its road and barely left alive, and it is 
unlikely since Rugar weakened or kinder.



   But Mazirian now is not the same. Previous
quiet magnetic scientist died two hundred years ago
under the blows of trees whip. And those who
miraculously survived, was a seasoned fighter, brave, fair, and 
ruthless. Very long ago learned Mazirian of Ancient Manuscripts

secret portals forbidden worlds, and all these
Two hundred years preparing to enter into them.


   And so opened the first door and entered the first Mazirian 
Forbidden World - Forest, and in Forest grabbed the younger 
Lord of Chaos - Torquemada. Wild giant spiders - the 
inhabitants of forests - were watching the fray, 
dispassionately ripping everyone who turned their backs on 
them. 


   And he fell Torquemada! Gryphon
chased him Mazirian. Magical Lightning
seared Lord, seriously wounding him. Did not help him create 
it: they perished under the arch bow arrows Maziriana after 
both died of their creator. A centaur Maziriana peretaskali 
treasures to the portal. 


   Now, remembering the battle, Mazirian
smiled contentedly. Junior Lord of Chaos was not so terrible. 
This weakness of all pupils of Darkness - The darkness gives 
them force, but it is also and settled in their arrogance. 
Really, in the Forest where Mazirian had suffered more from 
giant spiders than Torquemada. He winced, remembering the 
looming colossus with multocular huge poisonous jaws. How 
pitiful shouted his horse griffin, until the spider

whistling, tore him to pieces! And he Mazirian, almost broke 
his leg, managed to jump off and plunged into a whitish belly 
bloated four sworn arrows almost at point blank range.



   Still, Griffin did not save. Mazirian mind, of course, knew 
that everything created by it creature - just puppets, 
resurrected to life of his will, and still could not feel sorry 
for them. 


   But there was still undead. Vampires, demons,
zombies. And phantoms - their so-called for
strange, shimmering, like a vague
appearance, although they were quite tangible. AND
Ghost - these indeed were almost
incorporeal, can even pass through
wall. All of them were irreplaceable in battle because
Undead can only kill other undead -
or magic. They came from some creepy worlds, although they were 
something, perhaps, the human world seemed creepy and 
inhospitable. Or maybe vice versa - something like a 
restaurant? .. But anyway, as the undead mage did not create a 
cause. 


   Mazirian repeatedly relied on in battle demons - caustic and 
fearless. In an extreme case - to the huge and blunt phantoms. 
But the vampires, he avoided - These sophisticated, vicious 
killer called he has an almost physical aversion. Vampires 
never shot a bow - they explained (if you be persuaded to do 
so), that when they kill at a distance, lost all

pleasure. Mazirian smiled coldly,
remembering how to let a close today
two flying behind him, and vampires Torquemada
shot them from a magic bow. Only
two clouds melted into air.


   However, it is time to get to work. Login
second Forbidden World - Catacombs
Myrddin - opened only a week,
and the need to prepare well. And why not start with the 
treasure of the first world? Although No: it is better to leave 
a treasure for later, but for now refresh the information about 
the catacombs. Then we'll decide how best to apply

hidden in the precious energy.


   Created by magic servants carefully
wiped Maziriana fluffy and not at all
magic towel and threw painted red dragon tunic. A huge black 
cat dozing in the warmth of about baths, purred and started to 
rub his feet. Mazirian went to the library;

the cat had come with it for him, but changed his mind and,
treading softly, and went on his cats
cases. It must be catching mice: the castle
they divorced incredible set, and a magician, to the delight of 
a cat, he would not withdraw their spells.



   Along the way Mazirian sad sigh, he passed Bound (and, of 
course, strengthened by your) doors armory. Just think - a 
collection of traditional and magic weapons, and no one, even 
the most kinzhalchik tiny, you can not take! Creator of 
Forbidden Worlds, whoever he may be, would not that Mages are in

Worlds with their weapons.


   Everyone who comes to Myra, should be
dressed, as required by the ancient rituals of magical battles: 
the corresponding status gown and carrying an empty belt finds. 
And no guns! For many centuries how these rituals have sunk 
into oblivion, and for fights mages armed with as they wish, 
rather, as they can. But try to come to the Forbidden world 
just to be dressed not by rank - and you are left only a 
handful of ashes in pentacle-entry.



   Nevertheless, much something which, as weapons
Worlds enough. Scattered on the ground, displayed in glass 
cases, are hidden in chests dozens of swords, shields, spears, 
clubs, daggers, bows and even shuriken. A rumored to be 
somewhere in the recesses of hidden worlds even a magical 
weapon that can kill as ordinary beings, as well as undead.



   The library was already waiting Maziriana
uncovered a thick volume bound in leather, which, despite the 
protective spells, lightly stuffed the ubiquitous mouse. Best 
of all the existing book of Forbidden Worlds: huge yellowed by 
time, volume, three-quarters filled with wild rumors and 
outright lies. Choose however, is not accounted for, and 
Mazirian day long sat on the book, stoically

enduring the pain in his eyes from the terrible rune
letters.


   Information about the catacombs, deserving
confidence, were very poor. It is known that
cherished treasure hidden in the heart of the Catacombs, in a 
tiny locked crypt. Terrible monster guarding a treasure, that 
is the monster is usually wordy book is frighteningly responded 
succinctly: "There is nobody Who would have seen him up close 
and alive, to tell about it. "



   If you believe the book itself is stored in the treasure
a locked trunk, but the key to a chest tucked away in some kind 
of cursed crypt. Who guards the key - remained a mystery.



   Mazirian, pushing book thought.
Let's face it - in the forest he
very lucky. In the Catacombs to fight with him
come more serious enemy: the right hand Rugar - Lord of Chaos 
Elba Smogg. And he will save Rugar for hosting the third 
Forbidden World - Castle of Chaos. It can directly in their

chambers to thoroughly examine every pebble
Castle, generated his element.


   Sighing, Mazirian again bent over
book.

                  *
   All mages just hate to teleport. At least once experienced a 
concomitant sensation, only a madman wants them

repetition without extreme necessity. But the transition 
between the worlds was much worse. 


   Mazirian stood in the receiving pentacle.
All of his body paralyzed paralysis. It was impossible to
lift a hand or foot; it was impossible to
even fall - standing room only. Feeling of helplessness that 
and most courageous people would call a wild, panic. But all 
the attention took away pain - pain, gut-wrenching whole body 
inside out, the pain, like flayed skin and lead to a naked 
yelling nerves sandpaper; pain, to fill the entire universe.



   Then - in a minute? hour? three hundred thousand
years? time, somewhere has gone - the pain began
retreat, has admitted in battered brain
other feelings and thoughts. And the first came
anxiety: what if the enemy had before?
Suddenly he is ready to fight? Sudden attack
cave creature - a predator of the world, starving for three 
hundred thousand years? Suddenly, Suddenly, suddenly ...



   Mazirian understood that worry
meaningless. Still, while he is helpless, nothing can be done. 
That's when he gets back power over magic ... 


   The Wizard looked at available land
dungeon. Damp, moldy walls of the
They come faint yellow glow, barely disperses darkness, so that 
in the catacombs of perpetual twilight reigns; wet moss 
certainly suppresses all sounds, so that the two m not 
rasslyshish steps ... Here he drew attention to the old spear 
slightly away from the pentacle. Put whether it is the creator 
of the Worlds? Or drop the mag-violator in a desperate attempt 
to escape the fire death?



   A small spear, rather the javelin, with a wide tip. Already 
one million years lies in the dampness, but no

rusted. Magic! Something in the air these
caves. Well, that's great spear he would serve until you get 
better weapons. 


   Finally, the paralysis began to pass!
No, move Mazirian still could not;
but could conjure.


   Magician summoned from memory the right spell. It was just - 
not just words, but visible image: a complex web of energy, 
alive and throbbing. If at this moment someone looked at it 
from outside - could see just how tense the face magician and 
mind focused, and how if turned inward. But anyone would have 
understood soul would feel about what grandiose

force causes Mazirian what voltage
control it is now necessary. And then -
done!


   Blue flash flowing energy -
and close to the magician, there are three tiny shadows. The 
shadows grew and compacted to eyes. Distinct smell of ozone. At 
some moment there was an eerie sight - three non-human 
skeleton, but skeletons are immediately healed flesh, and flesh 
covered shiny skin. At least evident in the huge empty eye 
sockets. 


   Now Maziriana surrounded by three centaur
- Being impressive, but surprisingly
weak and timid. True, they ran
quickly that go perfectly with their cowardice, but it makes 
them perfect getters. Yes, and Archery centaurs shooting not 
bad. 


   In the centaurs, like all monsters, created by wizards, no 
soul. But something which will, intelligence and even character 
existed. The owner gave them a mental or verbal order, and so 
they performed it on As their understanding. A magician at any 
moment might like to look through the eyes of his creation.


   Paralysis finally let go, and Mazirian knead stiff hands, 
restoring blood flow. The pain remained, but perebaryvat pain 
magician used more Two hundred years ago. Dry smile, he

aloud ordered centaurs:


   - So, so - sooner find me
onions. If you got it, you will catch more pot
more sulfur and scraped from the walls. But in
First of all - the bow and arrow!


                  *


   Elba Smogg, Lord Chaos, surrounded by
retinue of his creations, walked through the corridors
Dungeon fast marching step. Suspended
behind the heaviest battle-ax at every step hurt beat him on 
the rump. 


   Elba was terribly annoyed. He is a fool, counting on the 
normal world, where You can even take off, riding a griffin, or

Pegasus, and the height to survey the neighborhood. AND
here you please! .. Damned endless tunnels; damn lot of twists 
and branches, and waiting, that sent forward reconnaissance at 
least one, but misses. AND Of course, there's the eject any

monster. Why, even the local invisible
creature! One such has already managed to eat it
dwarf and the other almost ate him. Fortunately, the silly 
creature has decided to first try walking in front of the tooth 
phantom. Just left her there was only a puddle of blood 
invisible somewhere behind. 


   After thinking about this puddle, the Elbe immediately 
cheered up. Irritation abated. He corrected ax behind his back. 
In fact, what is it whimper? Oh, a monster, oh, pop!

As a child of a small, honest! At the end of
all, he is engaged in business, in which
well versed and which also
loves: hunting for a man!



   Scouts have already sent in advance. This
something like hounds: kill not be killed, but
pens clutched teeth, skin spoiled,
and most importantly - the beast was caught up to the main 
forces. And then join in case the trolls Giants and, if 
necessary - and then a phantom. And when the victim is 
completely harassed, exhausted and only weakly snarls -

Chief Hunter is coming off of the saddle (it would be necessary
a unicorn "- reminded myself of Elba)
and personally slit her throat. If only
Maziriana find, and there goes the fun!


                  *


   Mazirian thoughtfully examined the door
Cursed Crypt. Bound in dull metal door, locked in a huge castle.
What might be lurking behind it? What kind of monster
licked there, looking forward to lunch after
three hundred thousand years of fasting? ..


   The Wizard was sure that before him
the door is Cursed Crypt. Curse
and carried out behind locked doors - familiar to all mages 
sour stench, ingrained in the wall, scoring even the ubiquitous 
smell of moss and dampness.



   Until now Mazirianu luck - all the time
that he stayed in the catacombs, it did not leave luck. His is 
even beginning to disturb - because it is difficult not to 
become superstitious in the Forbidden Worlds. Do not turn away 
from his fortune, Do not leave the luck in the unique

moment when everything will be solved? ..


   Assiduous centaurs just completed his
order - to find and onion with a thick sheaf of arrows and a 
copper boiler, and even a lump yellow sulfur. Magician put a 
spell on boom, together with their chosen a little earlier

spear, and a bit boiled in a cauldron potions
velocity, from which all movements are done in half the time, 
though not for long. Potions got quite a bit, just sip

four, so that only watered Mazirian
her riding a unicorn and took a sip himself,
and the residue was poured into two bottles. But while he
tried to move more slowly - double
speed is very exhausting, and he forces ashore.


   But most importantly - find the key to the door! Going into 
one of the crypts Catacombs, a magician came face to face with 
two goblins - small, half-human growth, but also completely mad

rage. He stabbed both fascinated
lance, and took the belt of one of them a giant bronze key. Now 
found the castle to him. 


   Centaur clutching the key in his strange
thin and weak for this growth is the hand,
prepared to open the door, fling it
- And get away without looking back. A Mazirian Riding
raised his spear to the unicorn - it is already covered
excitement, anticipation of the battle.


  Surprisingly, the castle is not rusty, and
it seems not even dusty. Lyazgnuv, he
hung on the same arc. Centaur, straining
muscles, opened the heavy door - musty
sepulchral rot and dry out a scent. Riding the unicorn 
Maziriana, beautiful animal, driven not spurs and bridle, and 
the order wizard will finally lunged forward with all speed, 
which allows its strong legs and magic potion. It seemed as if 
time has stopped, the centaurs were frozen in grotesque 
postures as statues, created by inept sculptor. Living 
whirlwind burst into the Damned Crypt.



   If outside, in the corridors of the Catacombs, was
perpetual gloom, here, in the crypt, darkness reigned. His 
slightly lit nagging dull yellow glow from the outside walls, 
but walls of the Cursed Crypt is not lit. It seemed that the 
very primeval darkness is here - something unseen, a 
comprehensive, very old and very aggressive. In far corner of 
the crypt discernible shape huge trunk. A front chest froze two 
black shadows. 


   Who are they - it was hard to discern. But
struck in the nose, disgusting smell
carrion left no doubt -
Vampires! Do not expect sophisticated killer who
more than once called a magician. Wild animals ...
fearless, relentless, intelligent and therefore doubly 
dangerous. They were ready to tear any intruder daredevil in 
pieces, and certainly no longer time doing it. 


   It was hard to even see the movement.
Only the vampire stood calmly in the chest
- Moment, and he was sprawled in the air
outstretched claws to the throat of a magician.
But Mazirian was faster. Enchanted
Lance met a vampire in a jump and deeply
included in his timeless flesh.


   Dazzling blue sparks splashed with
lance in all directions, an instant highlighting the vault 
chest and bared fangs second vampire. There was a smell of 
burning flesh. One spark, hitting on the magician's hand, 
strongly burned it. Stopped in the air, the vampire fell to the 
floor, wildly writhing and squealing shrilly. Holding on to the 
mane of a unicorn Mazirian leaned from the saddle and loaded 
broad spear in his throat defeated monsters - again flew the 
blue sparks. Then he straightened up and ready to meet

the second enemy.


   But the vampire was not expecting it. Realizing that
fair fight he did not survive, he rushed to the
chest, a deceptively easy motion
threw bound in the cover, bent - and
straightened with a flask in his hand. Invisibility Potion!


   Magician rushed to the monster, rushed
desperately, hopelessly, knowing that all
will not prosper. Bloodless lips vampire
spread a malicious grin, baring fangs ...

   Track ionization broke out in musty
the cave air, denoting the path of flying
spells. Blinding lightning flashed belogolubaya, highlighting 
every crack on pitted the ancient curse of the walls

crypt. Seared vampire thrown in
side. Mazirian said spell
once again - the vampire shot up, vygnuvshis and
hard ass on the floor.


   Unicorn, warily sniffing, approached him, and bared his 
fangs beast - defeated, badly wounded, but still dangerous. 
Mazirian both hands, raised his spear and thrust it into the 
writhing body of the wall. Again, sparks, vampire struggled in 
convulsions. His flesh was melting in his eyes, turned into 
nothing, into the smoke. Last flash, and body overcast cloud 
gryaznoburogo smoke. When the smoke cleared, the floor there 
were only scraps of scorched hair, yes lay a clogged bottle of 
potion. 

dance. And yet ... Elba rushed forward, describing a wide arc 
of an ax. Iskroshu, chopped up into pieces! Shivering, 
koldunishka? 


   But Mazirian not trembling. He stopped
dodge, took the blow on his shield, and in
turn with a short swing slashed
Elbe. He managed to insert a shield, but his
left arm numb immediately. And before he
able to parry, the sword has fallen again. Elba
had not kept shouting - blade cut through the mantle, and the 
Lord's side stained with blood. He furiously swung the ax 
finally catching opponent, but then the sword pierced him in 
the shoulder and right arm powerless fell. Mazirian a 
contemptuous smile, raised his sword for the final blow ... 


   What could I do the Elbe? In all telepathic force, it 
silently cried command of his army. Words, it could

to convey something like "drop everything and
save me! ". Phantom and goblin, leaving
aspiring to the victim, rushed to Mazirianu and
Elba with all legs ran away from him. Mighty Lord of Chaos 
skedaddle as a frightened rabbit, holding his left arm injury 
in side.



   A Mazirian, hiding the sword, pulled
hands. From his palms towards the monsters
gushed shining rays. Then he tore off
shoulder bow, put the first arrow ... That
was further Elba has not seen before - vanished
around the corner. It seems, at last, he felt contempt flashed 
in his mind phantom. However, who cares about the contempt

undead? ..


                  *


   The unicorn ran through the corridors of the Catacombs raw. 
Mazirian relaxed swaying in saddle, his eyes half closed. He 
rested on the go. His arms and legs are still trembling after 
battle at double speed - there is scarcely to light of the more 
exhausting exercise. In the mouth disgusting dried up, and my 
heart did not want to move to the rhythm. 


   And behind the unicorn ran a huge squat brick-red demon. His 
legs uniform spanked on wet moss vzmetaya

jet of water almost to his knees. Long claws swaying in time to 
run at the very land. Demon lagged behind the unicorn, but

he and the wizard knew: none
living thing (except the golden dragon) and
none of the undead do not exceed the demon endurance. He can 
run all the same leisurely jogging watches, and even days 
without stops. And because Mazirianu remained

just be glad that the demon is not after a
them, but simply accompanies it.


   After the collision, in the Cursed Crypt
Formation of both magicians greatly thinned. Elbe and
completely took away his legs in splendid isolation, while
Maziriana were only two and a centaur
phantom. He sent them to explore, and himself,
jumping to the last unicorn, he went to the heart of the 
Catacombs Myrddin - Crypto kladohranilische. Preparing for 
battle with the unknown monster, storozhaschim treasure, he 
called ahead of his favorite partner - demon.



   Turning once again, a unicorn and a demon appeared in front 
of three tall closed doors. From behind the door blew 
incomprehensible threat. Mazirian hesitated, pressed stronger 
tack-welded in the Cursed Crypt sword and opened the middle 
door. 


   Missed heart beat and beat again
exactly. Behind the door, no one and nothing happened.
Just a short hallway and at the end
another door, also closed. They passed the hall. And a magician 
and a demon feel: they just got lucky. Danger lurking for so 
long. 


   And then, finally, the unicorn stopped
before the door of the sacred crypts. Magician,
waiting for the demon put a spell on her
weapons and in one gulp, wincing from the unbearable
bitterness, drained bottle potion of speed.
The last flask. Then he threw the empty
basin and leaned back in the saddle, awaiting the moment when 
his blood will run faster on veins. That has begun! .. As 
always, in the eyes of zaryabilo, and he closed his eyes, 
clutching in the saddle. Nausea rolled up, laid

ears. Then the discomfort subsided, and
He opened his eyes. Daemon was already there, he
ran incredibly smoothly and slowly,
as happens in dreams.


   Stopping the daemon only once
took a deep breath, stretched - and here he
back fresh and ready to fight.


   - Damn it, master?


   Mazirianu had to strain to parse words. At double speed
ordinary speech was perceived intolerable
slow bass muttering.


   - You go first. As soon find yourself in, try to distract 
the guard ... whoever it was. 


   Demon grinned gleefully in anticipation of a fight ... and 
suddenly began to worry: 


   - But, master ... a locked door. A
whopper I did not break down ...


   - What door?

   Could not see even how to spell flies towards the goal. Just 
Mazirian to some moment focused, silently moved

lips - and the door was gone, departed by smoke, and
in its place was raging unnaturally yellow
magical flame.


   Demon admiringly grunted and disappeared into the
flame. And once inside there was a roar and a full-fledged 
uterine sound of blows. Mazirian waited until the sounds a 
little distance themselves, and spurred a unicorn. Roaring flame

closed around them and then parted. They were in a small crypt.


   Only one eye had hurried
magician to cast a crypt. Miniature likeness of the fortress 
moat, just completed no water, scorching lava. On the surface 
of the lava swells huge bubble. Bound and massive chest, locked 
in padlock the size of a human head in the middle of the fire 
ring. Here it is - Treasure the Catacombs! And next - the one 
who guards. Sentinel was the only one. But

it was a demon.


   To the human eye, he seemed indistinguishable from 
mazirianova demon. The same huge, horned, all covered with red 
scales. Well, maybe a little wider at the shoulders. But the 
magician could not confuse them - it felt her, could not even 
look at it eyes. Only now, those eyes completely

flooded the blood.


   His daemon failed. Easily wounded enemy sitting on top of it 
and long clawed ruchischami tore to pieces. 


   Seeing a magician, a demon-guard a deafening roar, and 
without saying a word, rushed at him. Unicorn menacingly 
lowered his head and aimed at his horn, but the demon 
dismissively, as if from a nuisance. Strike hit like a hammer. 
Unicorn flew to door and collapsed on the floor, frantically 
tugging feet. But the magician was moving with speed

attacking a snake: he managed to jump off and
before an enraged demon struck again
slashed by a brick-red scales with a sword.
Sparks, smell burnt.


   For the first time for millions of years guard encountered 
the enemy, and they dared to hurt him! Shed his precious blood! 
Demon captured a wild rage. He clumsily trampling on-site 
vzrevyvaya, noisily through the air with long legs. Once his 
claws touched the wall on the rock were long

scratches.


   For Maziriana time disappeared, remained
only a series of jumps, bumps and bounces.
He said hoarsely, with whistling breathing; enchanted sword 
tyazhelel with every second. Wizard of preparing for the final 
attack that would solve everything, and prayed to all known 
gods to curse on the sword held out even though

a little bit.



   A wounded demon Maziriana, unable to climb, crawl to the 
fighting, left paw holding dragging behind him own insides. The 
demon in half crypts remained broad red-brown band.



   The end came unexpectedly. Just
magician preparing to attack - and that's
already he is against the wall. Left Hand thrown
in the direction at an unnatural angle, but the shield
miraculously still holding her. And on
left side hanging rags mantle swells bloodstain.


   Daemon stopped crying. And it was the worst thing happened - 
he smiled. His eye and the whole flat face now and beamed with 
joy. Pure, sincere and completely insane joy of murder. 


                  *



   Elba, cautiously looking around, making his way on damp 
corridors of the dungeons, smelling of mildew and death. On the 
move it grimly munching an apple. In fact, there are not 
hungry, but he saved his strength. 


   In the Cursed Crypt Lord lost nearly
his whole entourage, but he managed to create a
new. Two giant, a centaur and a demon went
beside him, ready at first sign of danger
sleep a live screen. Lord has already felt the call of the 
portal and now goes to him. He was going there to arrange an 
ambush for Maziriana.



    Elba, with some surprise felt increasingly afraid of the 
enemy. It was a strange and uncomfortable, this in itself

his bogey, instilled insecurities. And yet
it grew more fear because of Elba understood: Rugar, too afraid 
Maziriana. 


   Long ago, the road Rugar and Maziriana crossed and cocky 
magician only accidentally left the battlefield alive. But Elba

now he was sure - that something special had happened between 
them on the long-standing battle. Something that settled the 
fear in the black Rugar heart, and this fear with time

gobbled up all his other senses, leaving
just as they generated hatred. Well, think for yourself - now 
that Rugar knew that Mazirian goes in Forbidden Worlds, why he

did not meet him in the first of them?
Why send Torquemada? Why give the enemy
chance to seize treasures Forests and increase
their power?


   The answer can only be one - he's just afraid! Therefore 
sent one after another of his henchmen, threw them at the mercy 
Mazirianu, and all this crazy hope - Suddenly a single one of 
them will kill the hated the enemy, suddenly be able to avoid 
combat. 


   And if you can not - have remained Rugar
last trump. Forbidden Third World -
Castle of Chaos - a sign he was not hearsay.
All the secrets of Chaos for him - an open book.
And there that he met his longtime enemy, there will be decided 
which of them die, a someone to come back. 


   But now the Elbe at some instant
illumination clearly imagine how
will this fight, unless, of course, Mazirian
Today prihlopnet him. Rugar not
capable of more on the incredible, carefree ease, so much again 
brings him the victory. As a cornered rat,

he will snarl, meeting Maziriana strikes. Maybe Mazirian wrong, 
fall into the trap and die, and his bones rot on the stone 
floor of the Castle. But Ragarilu not come out - but what comes 
out, will no longer Ragarilom, the Great Lord of Chaos. Wreck, 
trembling living corpse easy prey first mage adventurer -

Here's what he will be when the last drop
props his black soul, long vyevshey
itself from within - fear and hatred.


   But he, the Elbe, is not so! Man's soul
not eroded! If it survives today, if, immediately Maziriana - 
Is not it then will be the strongest? Is not he so deserves

Thus, by law the title of Great Lord? Will
Rugar's only fair to send back into the darkness from which it 
came. AND Then there will be limits of the power of the Great 
Lord of Chaos Elba Smogga! At his feet lie the whole world!



   "If you kill Rugar - he'll be Ragarilom. And ended the same 
way as Rugar - whispered suddenly Elba inner voice from some 
distant corner of the soul. But the whispered very quiet. And 
then he paused. 


   And Elba continued his journey. He has not ceased to be 
afraid, but found that quite can get on with their fear and 
even draw from his spiritual strength. Very likely be that this 
was his first step to the cherished black throne.


                  *

   Mazirian crouched in a corner of the crypt. Left
hand, he did not feel it. The right-hand clenched slippery from 
the blood of the sword hilt. He able to sit down, but rise to 
his feet he did not could. Wizard of the last forces strained

trembling leg muscles, back rests against the wall, leaving her 
bloody streaks, and do not his eyes fixed on the looming over 
him a demon. 


   Monster raised his right paw - scratches
Enchanted by the sword on it diverged from
voltage and again zakrovotochili. Demon
trying on how to kill polovchee Maziriana though before him 
swarmed crushed insect. Ugly insect, which can still sting. 


   And then severely wounded demon Maziriana, only force will 
continue to live crawled to the enemy. Bloodied, broken

paw stranglehold clutching a coat of muscular ankle.



   Demon guard was dumbfounded. Then he slowly began to unfold, 
though he could not believe in such audacity. A Mazirian -

where only the forces come from - rose to
feet.


   Bleeding, staggering, he stood on the
podgibayuschihsya feet. Left arm with a shield
helplessly hung. But the right to remain
firm. Enchanted blade slashed by
a thick neck of the demon and cut through the scales.
A shower of blinding blue sparks
beautifully illuminating flooding stream of brown
blood. Demon sighted blinked his enormous eyes. He wanted to 
roar, and, perhaps, to howl, but only issued a Throat Slash 
whistling and gurgling. 


   They froze for a moment like this: a magician, zanesshy 
sword for another blow - and beat the demon. Then the demon of 
all the weight came down on the enemy, mad with rage, I only 
remember one thing: to break, crush! But Mazirian ahead of him: 
he placed a sword hilt resting on the hip, and the demon 
himself clave itself on the magical tip, like a butterfly the 
pin. The walls shuddered outrushing still crying. A huge red 
carcass swayed, razvoploschayas. Mazirian with

difficulty pulling out his sword and struck again - the latest 
outbreak, and the demon went into his home world, where there 
was probably already a million years. 


   And the other demon - bleeding demon Maziriana - smiled 
approvingly. He also began razvoploschatsya and held

Forbidden in the world only by force of will, words
gave him the hard way. But still the demon uttered:


   - Not bad, Muzzy ... A thousand years
you ... Call the go again ... Total ...


   And he was gone.


   A Mazirian sank helplessly on the floor.
The sword fell out of a weakened hand. That and look
he could fall into unconsciousness, injury to
side all the bleeding and he just would have expired
blood. From some of the boundaries of the field of view
already crept darkness.


   But then he tried to lean on a broken left arm. The flash of 
pain slightly sobered. Bleary-eyed magician looked at the huge 
trunk. He remembered - something very important is connected 
with this trunk. But the outlines of the chest barely 
discernible a strange, irritating the fiery veil. And the 
magician to his feet and staggered towards him, holding in his 
hand the key of Cursed Crypt.



   That was then, merciful memory preserved only fragments.


   ... He takes a step forward and immediately knee-deep 
plunges into the boiling lava. This hurt, badly hurt and he 
cries. Shouts meaningless and pitiful, like a wounded animal.


   ... He wanders through the liquid fire, writhing in pain. 
Step, another step ... It seems flesh on his legs had already 
charred and now fall off the bones. But now, finally, the flame 
is left behind. He falls on his face. Fingers stretched out his 
arms deal rough side chest, and it soothes. 


   ... He's trying to insert a tightly clutched in his hand the 
key in the keyhole, all while slipping in a puddle of his own

blood. Fingers cramp, they are poorly
obey. Finally lock clicked, opens with a loud clang and falls. 
He sticks hand under the lid, push off something long

and leather, interlock your fingers to cool
the neck of the bottle.


   Strange, but the neck just under promyalos
hand. On hand if ran level - in
He poured life-giving energy. Pain from
Burns immediately hushed, his head cleared. The darkness 
receded, though, and continued loom somewhere in the 
background. Mazirian came to his senses.



   Looking around, barely moving his head,
He was stunned for a moment looking at the hissing
lava. Wow! Looks like he got to the unconscious ... Of course! 
Here it is - The coveted treasure of the Catacombs! Mazirian 
pulled his hand got stronger, with a bottle from the chest and 
examined her in the dim red light boiling lava. 


   However, the light was not needed - the bottle itself exuded 
a quiet light Lights. But where was shining brightly, does not 
see eye: the bottle gently pulsing from hidden in her Power. 
Some kind of elixir. AND mighty, just one touch

led him to yourself!


  He pulled the neck of the bottle to the parched
his lips and swallowed. Tried to swallow. From
bottles are not spilled a drop! .. Magician
shake it - no bubbling. He has a good look at more closely - 
like a bottle and its content were one. Something

he had heard of these elixirs, some
very old trick ... Well, why
not to try?


   Feeling like a complete fool Mazirian
buried his teeth into the cool rounded side
bottle. And it is served! Nip
a vessel immediately became a liquid He
in the mouth, soft flame rolled down your esophagus. And just 
completely took the pain of burns, but suddenly fell ill left 
hand: reconstructed nerves.



   In a few seconds, swallowed Mazirian
the whole bottle. Warm glow enveloped him.
Imagine that he is basking under the warm, not too hot sun on 
the edge Askolayskogo beloved forest. Then the heat

began to wane, and the magician is clearly felt, as he joins 
the magic power. Yes, this really was a powerful elixir! ..

Lights went out, and he rose to his feet. All
wounds healed, the bones are fused, and the energy
overwhelmed him.


   Mentally thanking the creator of the Worlds
for an elixir, a magician bent over the chest. 
Impressive-looking chest was shallow and almost empty: there 
were only a broad sword in a leather sheath and

slightly shimmering dark green emerald.


   Mazirian bent down, picked up an emerald and
put it in a secret pocket sword belts.
Then he took his sword and, haltingly read
the only word vytisnennoe unimaginably ancient runes on the 
scabbard: "Slayer." The name of the sword did not tell him. Yes 
and no surprising - after millions of years, Slayer

lay in the trunk.



   Saber handle comfortably lay down in his palm;
Mazirian, primerivayas, made a couple of test swings, and 
lunges. Not a bad weapon. Not bad ... but not more so.

Just a good sword, without any magic tricks. And now she's the 
kept in the heart Catacombs Myrddin? Mazirian was even slightly 
disappointed. 


   One leap he crossed the lava again
Opal feet. But now it was bullshit -
energy elixir raged within him, and he even
not slowed a step.


   Overflowing magician mana downright demanded witchcraft, and 
he did not resist. He uttered a spell - and a number of with 
him out of nowhere there were two griffins. Predators stirred 
irritably feathered wings, useless in the cramped catacombs

clicked their beaks. Claws scraped
Moss, exposing strips of stone floor. Mazirian cleverly jumped 
on the back of the neighbor griffin, and the creature ran soft 
cat trot. Already opened a portal - a way out of the Forbidden 
World, sorcerer distinctly different its inaudible cry. We had 
to hurry, not to stay in the catacombs of three hundred 
thousand years. 


   Because of the battle wounds and other experiences Mazirian 
completely forgot about the three doors, behind which lurked 
unseen danger. But about him have not forgotten. Turning the 
corner, he saw that all three doors wide open. Average he 
revealed himself, going here, two others - no ... Two huge 
phantom, crouching and spread wide his long arms to invade

him.


   Mazirian, never taking his eyes off the creatures, hastily 
put a spell on your weapon. And then ... He understood why the 
Slayer kept in the sacred crypt. Understand the great

valuable treasure Catacombs. Understood what he
paid with their blood.



   Under the spell sword transformed. She suddenly woke up from 
a long sleep, and trembled in his hand, a thin rattled, as if 
singing battle song. On blade ran short golden flashes.

Ancient power has awakened in saber, and now
this force is eager to fight.


   Clutching a Slayer, Mazirian sent
Griffin meet its phantoms.

A little wait - and ... Hey! What is it?
Went away, creature! ..


   Fastener must be very angry when the victim suddenly 
disappeared from her straight from the mouth - though, 
incidentally, have Velcro no mouth. Or, conversely, there are 
whole hundreds mouths to feed - how to look. Either way, it

chose a new victim - and quietly crept up behind her.

   Caught Lord of Chaos desperately lunged,
but goo holding tight. He jerked forward, but fell back, almost 
naporovshis to Slayer. 


   - Take it away, fool! "- Screamed the Elbe ...
but it was too late. Velcro was moving slowly, but if caught 
... Thick green clump moved onto the Lord, knocking him to the 
feet. Incredible effort he rose again, all plastered with green 
slime, but eternally hungry beast has braided his ankle.



   Mazirian relaxed. Slayer in removing
leather sheath, he fumbled in his sword-belt and pulled out a 
ruddy, slightly shimmering magic apple. It will not stop 
bleeding, but will hold out for a while.

Paralysis was, he mechanically went on
two-step and buried his teeth in a fragrant pulp.



   A Elbe, caught in a trap of their own, fiercely fought, 
right and left, minced ax. At one moment it seemed that

Now he is released, will break loose. But the velcro again 
landwash; ax stuck in a sticky lump, and it vomited out hands.



   Prior to that, Elba only puffed and hake in the
clock strikes, and now he cried. And do not even
cried and cried - shrill and hopelessly. Then suddenly his eyes 
rested on the hunched figure Maziriana and screams

become meaningful.


   - Mazirian! Save me! "- A heart-rending yelled
Elba Smogg, Lord of Chaos .- Save me! I
swear! Do not go! Not-ee-o! " (Continuously champing, Velcro 
has risen to its hips.) All that you say! I'll kill Rugar! Do 
you hear me? Do not go, you bastard! Mazirian! DO NOT LET ME 
EAT this stuff! 


   Mazirian looked again at the screaming
Lord. His face suddenly became very tired.
Hence, still have ... He himself
began to realize it, but allowed a fleeting
hoping to fool yourself. For which he paid. Magician pulled 
from his shoulder bow. 


   - Well, the Elbe, - he said, and he barely
hear myself for the continuous screaming. -
This I do for you.


                  *


   Far away from the forbidden worlds, and maybe next, but 
within arm's reach, in a secret room of the Eternal Black 
Castle, Great Lord of Chaos Rugar impotent limp in his

chair, not like a chair. Crystal
the ball went out immediately, as soon as flashing
view pulled away from him. Another ... Be
Fuck you, Mazirian! Rugar hoarsely shouted hateful name, and 
cringed as depressed rag, though he expected an immediate 
heavenly retribution. 

   However, is that he will,
much better this car?


                  *


   A Mazirian stepped out of receiving pentacle
and the ankle was drowned in a fluffy carpet.
Once back home, even pain and paralysis are faster. Three 
created by magic servants stood at the ready: one holding a 
bottle of healing potion, the other - tunic with green dragons, 
and the third is ready was taken tattered, burned, smelling of 
sweat and blood of the mantle. But all that could wait. 


   Mazirian squatted down. A huge black cat purred loudly and 
put front paws on his knees. Tired eyes

Sorcerer met with bottomless green eyes and drown in them. 
Mazirian, performing the usual ritual of meeting, and touched 
his nose wet nose cat. 


   - Hello, friend, - he said quietly. -
Here I am at home.