┌─────────────┐
│ Continued │
└─────────────┘
There was no gate that I could knock on
There were just two guards standing at the entrance to the castle. I went down
down the field, past piles of broken Benedictine cars,
already slightly covered with red rust, and walked onto the bridge.
Approaching the guards, I lowered my gun and said:
- I need to convey one very important message to the authorities.
businessman of these walls.
“Turn back and walk where you came from,” he said,
the taller one, pointing his gun at me. -Kano Di-
Noble does not accept anyone.
“I don’t care about your Kano,” I said, looking in
calling over his shoulder into the courtyard. Walked through the yard
at this time some tall man in rags. But under
with the tattered cuffs of his trousers I could see the polished
Shiny fashionable boots.
“I wish Kano good health,” I shouted loudly. - And
I hope that he regularly consults with a gerontologist and pro-
nosizes his life.
The guard frowned, pondering over my words -
but, apparently, they did not fit into his system of views. But
the man I saw in the yard suddenly stopped. For-
he slowly turned around. And he headed to the gate, plotting
riv with the guards - and at the same time not letting go of me
the look of your penetrating blue eyes.
- What kind of alarm is this?
- None, your honor. Let's just send this guy there
where did you come from?
- Let him in. I want to ask him a few questions.
The barrel aimed at me was raised in a salute, and I scratched
you walked past the gate. When we've gone far enough
distance, the tall man turned around and looked me down
to the head with frank curiosity.
“Follow me,” he said. - I want to talk to you on
united.
I didn't hear another word from him until we were
in the castle and the door of the small office did not close behind us.
-Who are you? - he asked.
- You know - I was just about to ask you the same thing -
mine. Does he know about yourLeague presence here?
- Of course they know about it! I'm completely legal here
but... - he stopped mid-sentence and smiled. - This is at the end-
This at least proves that you are also an alien. Nobody in
in his thoughts does not allow that I could fly here from another world
ra - and does not know what you know now. Sit down and packa-
tell me who you are. After this I will be able to determine whether it is worth
Should I introduce you to our work?
“It’s very simple,” I said, plopping down in a chair and
laying the gun on the floor. - My name is Jim. I was a team member
on a cargo ship from Behuu - until I
There were some disagreements with the captain. He dropped me off
on this planet. That's all I can tell about myself.
He pulled out a notepad and began taking notes.
- So, your name is Jim. And the last name... - I was silent. He's haxmy-
rilcya. - Well, okay, we'll find out about this later. What was your name
captain?
- I think I'll save this information for later. After that-
go, as you say, who you really are.
He pushed the notepad aside and leaned back in his chair.
- I'm not satisfied. Without finding out your identity, I can't
I have nothing to tell you. Where did you come to Venia from? Name it
the capital of its planet and the name of the chairman of the universaladvice.
- It was so long ago that I don’t remember.
- You're lying. You are as Viennese as I am. Only I know
much more...
- What exactly do you want to know? I'm a resident of the League, not
a native of this animal world. I watched TV channel ZU, pi-
was in the McSwinies restaurant system - branches of which are
known throughout the universe, turnover of forty-two billion per year
- studied microelectronics and received a Black Belt in judoka.
Does this satisfy you?
- May be. But you told me that you were dropped off on this
planet from a Venian cargo ship, which cannot be
true. All unauthorized contacts co Cnuobehte zap-
resolved.
- Our contact was not authorized. They deliver con-
a weapon to the planet using a bandage method - like mine
gun.
This immediately caught his attention. He grabbed his block
notes
- Captain's name...
I silently shook my head.
- You will only receive this information if yctpoute is so,
so I can leave the planet. You can do it like this
like just nowthey said that you are here with permission
niya league. Therefore, let's conclude a mutually beneficial agreement -
tion. Will you arrange my return ticket - I have enough
exactly gold rpoytob to pay for it - or it will be,
which is basically the same thing. You will also help me with one thing
actually here on the spot - then I’ll tell you the name of the captain.
He didn't like it. He thought for a long time, trying to turn it off.
escape from this situation, but could not think of a suitable one
way.
“While you are considering my proposal,” I said, “
can you tell me about yourself and what you are doing here-
those
-You must promise me that our real names will remain-
nytsya unknown to local residents. Our presence here xo-
well known outside of Cnuobehte, but our success will be
guaranteed only if our plans remain undisclosed.
- I promise, I promise. I swear the locals don't know anything
will be recognized.
He made a pyramid out of his fingers and leaned back as if
about to give me a lecture. So it was - the very first
his words confirmed my guess.
- I am Professor Lustig from the University of Ellenbogen, where I
I hold the post of chairman of the academic council. II am also
Dean of the Faculty of Applied Socioeconomics and must say
Let’s say that I created this faculty myself, because I think it’s applied
new socioeconomics a completely new discipline, young and
having its roots in theoretical socioeconomics, which,
however, it is obvious in itself...
I blinked a few times, forcing myself to concentrate.
while listening to a lecture, rather than staring at the ceiling. Exactly
teachers like Professor Lustig forced me to run away
from school.
- ...years of work and careful typological research,
to make our wildest dreams come true. Prak-
tical application of our theories. The most difficult thing in our
both means dealing with the bureaucratic apparatus of the League and with
its policy of non-intervention. But in the end we managed them
convince that with appropriate controls we could ocy-
showcase the experimental project for the reconstruction of society here at
Cnuobehte. Or, as someone crudely joked, we were allowed
experiment, because it will be worse than now,
We couldn't anyway. We carry out our activities on co-
the appropriate level of development of the technological process, which
which will maintain itself when we leave
planet.
- Whatwhat exactly are you going to do? - I asked.
He blinked in surprise.
- Isn’t it clear - in my opinion, that’s all I do,
that I'm telling you about this.
- You are telling me a theory, professor. Won't you
you are so kind and would you mind telling me what exactly you
hope to achieve with your experiment?
- If you insist, I'll explain "popular", we're collecting-
do nothing more or less than change the entire structure
local society. We want to take the planet out by pushing it
on the one hand, then on the other, from this gloomy, prehistoric
chelic period. Now she is immersed in the era of feudalism,
the most primitive form. Or better yet, worldism
[the power of military leaders; warlord - military leader
(English)]. Typically, feudal society is forced to serve
itself and maintain a large army during the period of disintegration.
This supports the unshakable foundations of the social order in Lithuania.
chain of feudal rulers, while scattered populations
The established points must take care of themselves and protect themselves.
“I didn’t see any special care or protection.”
- Right. That's why these military leaders must go.
- I'll help shoot a couple of them.
- Violence is not OUR way! In addition tobecause it's disgusting
in itself, this is also prohibited to members of the League. Our goal
is the specter of a government free from
Kano. For her sake, we encourage the development and rise of the professional class
cials, artisans. This will lead to an increase in money
circulation and the collapse of barter exchange. With increasing mass
money the government will have the opportunity to introduce an institute
taxes to pay for public services. To
to speed up this process, it is necessary to form a system of legal
vocydia. This will contribute to the development of connections, central
ation, development and growth of common ideas.
It all looked just great - although I wasn't very
was happy about the introduction of taxes or the establishment of judicial practice
ticks. But still, it was in any case more civilized than the authorities.
ty Kano.
“In theory, everything looks just wonderful,” I said. -
But how are you going to put this into practice?
- Provide more modern services at lower prices
prices. That is why the Benedictines tried to commit
we are under attack. They are as religious as my hat;
the order is only an external cover for their undivided
mastery of new technologies. We destroyed their monopoly and
they don't like it.
-Wonderful. Your plan looks pretty nice and I wish
good luck to you. But there's something else I need to do before I
I'll leave this godforsaken hole. Wanting to help you destroy-
Monopoly Institute, I would like to buy some va-
our hypnotic gas.
- This is impossible. In fact, we have no opportunity
provide you with any assistance. Just like you
opportunity to leave our castle. I warned the guards. You'll-
You want to stay here until the next League ship arrives.
Now you know too much to let you go wild
pour in freedom.
Until I realized the meaning of this unacceptable information for me
formation, the body itself rushed to the table. He should have remembered
what I told him about the Black Belt. One hit and he fell
without feelings. But even before his head hit
table, I jumped away from it and rushed to the door. And just then
belt - putting the locking bolt in place, I saw that the handle
the door rises and someone tries to otboputb.
“Now act very quickly, Jim,” I advised
to myself. - Until the alarm was raised. But first check
What useful things does this two-faced professor have?
Documents, papers, books, everything that was not
represented for me at this timemoment of no interest. I
scattered it all on the floor around him, and just at that moment
The cop banged on the door. I didn't have time. Now
professor. I unbuttoned his robe and turned out his pockets. There
there was even less interesting. Just a bunch of keys. Koto-
the paradise immediately migrated into my own pocket; she told me
could be needed for a robbery. Picking up my gun, I
I rushed to the window, and they were already pounding on the door with all their might. Two
floors to the ground, and the yard was paved with terrible-looking cobblestones -
mi. If I had jumped, I would probably have broken my legs. I
leaned over the window sill and thought gratefully about not-
conscientious masonsx Cnuobehte. Between the stones of the outer
The walls had quite large gaps. As soon as I got out
the window and the door to the office cracked and shattered into pieces. Shut up
hyb the gun by the belt and moving it to my back, I started cnyc-
roll down. It was pretty easy. Having jumped off the last
off the ledge, I twisted my shoulder trying to reach the gun,
which dug painfully into my spine, pulled it out and
stumbling, ran around the corner of the building before anyone
managed to lean out of the window. I was free! Are you free? On
I immediately felt depressed. Free in the middle of the enemy's castle, where
everyone and everyone is against me. This is freedom!
- Yes, free! - I arrogantly clenched my teeth, straightenedshoulders and tried to give importance and ease to the
walking - Free, as only the Rat from
stainless steel! So hurry up, Jim, and see
Are there any suitable locks here that can be opened by those
the keys that you have in your pocket.
I have always been my own best advisor. I walked into
courtyard, ducking under a high arch. Around the yard here and there
armed warriors walked around, who did not pay attention to me
no attention. But this could not last long. How
As soon as they raise the alarm, they will immediately rush in my footsteps.
Looking straight ahead, I headed towards the massive building in
far corner of the yard. It had a massive gate, and next to it
there was a small door. As I came closer I saw that
they were locked with very modern locks. That's already something
meant.
It was interesting to know what was inside. Now you need
was to find a suitable key. Trying not to look noctopoh-
him, I stopped in front of a smaller door and began to study
keys. There were at least twenty of them. But the castle belonged to a company
Me Bolger, it was not difficult for my trained eye to determine
share this, and I began to feel the keys, looking for a familiar
diamond shape.
- Hey, why are you here?are you doing?
In front of me stood an impressively sized thug, a dirty
and unshaven, with red eyes. He had it tucked into his belt
a long dagger, the handle of which he touched meaningfully
hand.
“I’m opening the door, what else,” was my firm answer. - A
Are you the one who was sent to help me? Then keep this.
I handed him my gun. With this I managed to win back several
seconds while he looked at the weapon, and inserted it into the lock
well one of the keys. Not the one.
“Nobody sent me,” he said, examining the gun that
distracted his attention just enough for me to try
try the second key. I couldn't do anything illegal...
lennoe, since I gave him my only gun, right?
I saw that he was thinking intensely about something, slowly turning
shaking the trunk and moving his lips at the same time. I interrupted the high
years of his thoughts.
- Well, since you are here, then you can help me...
Phew, thank God, the second key came up, turning smoothly in
keyhole. The door opened and I turned around too
smoothly, suddenly jabbing her fist into his chest. I picked it up
gun as he fell to the ground.
- Hey, you, stop!I ignored this rude order, because I was stupid
Boko doesn't care who gave it to him, but instead he slipped
out the door and slammed it behind him. He turned around and looked around.
pyr, and felt a sudden, acute disappointment. There was no
no hope. It was quite a spacious room,
faintly lit through holes high in the wall. It was ha-
rage for steam engines. There were five of them, neatly lined up in
row. It would be nice to get away in one of them, just great.
I've seen them at work.
First you need to light a fire, throw firewood there, rain
will be given when steam starts to rise. All this usually takes
but not less than an hour. But how could I, tell me, do everything?
this is without interference, and then open the door and slowly drive out
freedom, gradually increasing speed?
No way! Or was there still some way? When my eyes
began to gradually get used to the dim light, I began to understand
mother, that these were not exactly the same cars that I liked
I liked to see before with wooden wheels covered with steel
climb. These had soft tires! Improved technology? A
could modern alien technology be contaminated?
kupobaha under the local antediluvian ruins?
I hurried to the nearest car and climbed onto the operating
tora. There were acquaintances therehandles and steering wheels - but invisible c
lands were a soft operator's chair and corresponding controls
all-terrain vehicle role instruments. There was no longer any need to worry about this
screw it up!
Having stuffed the gun under the seat, I sat down on it. Hanging on the side
seat belt, very wise, but not now. I pushed away
him to the side and leaned towards the instruments. Motor switch,
gear switch, speedometer - as well as some unknown
What devices are there for me? A knock on the door convinced me
that a detailed familiarization with the devices can be carried out
later.
I reached out and tried to start the engine. But he didn't start-
Xia.
And something completely unexpected happened. The engine was silent
but a pleasant girlish voice sounded right next to my ear:
- DO NOT ATTEMPT TO START THE ENGINE WITHOUT FASTENING YOUR SEAT BELT.
DANGER!
“Seat belt, right, thank you,” I clicked it
him and tried to turn on the engine again.
- THE ENGINE WILL START RUNNING ONLY IN A NEUTRAL POSITION -
SPEED Shift Research Institute!
The knocking on the door grew louder. I swore, trying
find the neutral position of the switch in the darkspeed
grow.
The door cracked and splinters flew from it. Well, now I’ll turn on-
tea again.
The engine was picking up speed. I changed gear. And a voice
said again:
- DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE WITH THE HANDBRAKE ON!
I swore loudly, the small door broke and c rpoxo-
Tom collapsed to the ground, the pistons began to work around me, the machine
twitched and hissed. Someone shouted something, and those standing in
doors, headed towards me. The car jerked again and heavily
Lo and clumsily moved forward. She actually moved
forward! Covered with steel armor and imitation pieces of iron,
it must have been very heavy.
The solution came naturally. I pressed the gas, turned the steering wheel and
directed his clumsy vessel straight towards the big
doors. Wonderful. The engine roared and emitted a stream of steam when
I gave it more gas.
We accelerated and crashed into the door with such a roar that I
I almost went deaf. But my horse did not slow down at all. tree
creaked, gave way and shattered into pieces, showering me with
from head to toe with shrapnel. I took a quick look at the run-
pedestrians rushing in all directions, barely having time to bend over,
so as not to be left withoutheads, almost hitting the one sticking out of the two
ri board. Then I sat down and smiled with joy. What a remark-
body spectacle. Soldiers scattering from under the wheels and straight-
looking for cover. I turned the steering wheel and turned around, looking around -
wandering around looking for a way out. A bullet hit the steel side
and jumped back.
And here is the gate - straight ahead. I pressed the gas again and
pulled the string of the whistle. He let out a shrill squeal
a jet of steam escaped and the car began to pick up speed. What
it turned out to be just right. Someone didn't lose his head and...
tried to raise the bridge. Two people inserted the handle into the
nophoro of the winch and turned it frantically, the chains began to jingle
Kali and stretched. I aimed for the very middle of the goal, cbuc-
the current continued to emit steam with a squeal, the bullets began without re-
break to bounce off the steel sides around me. I squeezed in
in the seat and pressed hard on the gas. There wouldn't be two deaths -
but one cannot be avoided. The bridge rose slowly, cutting off
I have an escape route, becoming more and more in front of
me. Here it is already at an angle of ten, twenty, thirty degrees
dycov. It looks like I won't be able to get through.
We burst onto the bridge with a roar, I almost flew out of
the seats from impact, but the seat belt saved me. Thank you
to you, little voice. Frontthe wheels climbed along the bridge, higher and
higher, until the nose of the car hung in the air. If
If we had risen even higher, she would have rolled over onto her back. And
here luck smiled at me. The engine purred angrily, and my
the predatory cart reared up and moved back - and I yc-
I heard a piercing squeal and the clanging of chains. Then all my thunder
Dinah leaned forward. The chains holding the bridge broke,
unable to bear the weight of my car. We hit the ground running and
the blow was again so sharp that it almost deafened me. But
my feet were still on the pedals, and the wheels continued to spin
Tit. The car rushed forward, straight towards the water. I turned the steering wheel
and straightened it out, turning off the bridge onto the road. Faster and faster
yard, up the hill and over the pass - and at full speed along
road until we overturned into a ditch. I was safe
you and far from your pursuers. I looked back but no one
I didn’t see it behind me. But they will appear soon, if not on foot
com, then on the same disguised as steam engines they transported
dexodax. I firmly put my foot on the gas and clenched my teeth tightly.
I wish they didn't knock every time we jumped on
hummocks.
There was a long slope ahead, which slowed us down a bit.
promotion. I accelerated as hard as I could, but that didn’t help either, and
we trudged along, with difficulty moving the heavy bodythis
beasts. There is an opportunity to check the batteries - they are charged!
I was just lucky with this, because there was no way I could have
recharge if they fail. Through the clang and thunder
washing the car, I heard a barely noticeable distant whistle and
glanced quickly over his shoulder. This is true! Two everywherexo-
Yes, they rushed in hot pursuit of me. There was no doubt
that they won't catch up with me. Off-road these cars were co-
completely helpless and immediately got stuck in the mud.
And there was only one road leading to Dimon's Kano castle. I
was driving along it in exactly that direction and was going to lead them
with you all the way. True, if I bring them there, they will...
they will know who stole their all-terrain vehicle, and they will come for it later co
with its sleeping gas. Nothing good. I looked back and
I saw them approaching. But the cars immediately started otcta-
as soon as they crawled up the slope. I crossed the pass and
The speed increased - as did the annoying rattling noise.
I think they came up with this machine as one way
punishments.
Here a crossroads appeared, ahead of me from under the wheels
peasants were running around. Here is the left turn, which should
lead me straight to Dimon's castle. I rushed past him. I don't
knew this road completely, and all I could do was
move forward and scoldyourself on what the light is worth. Something
it had to be done - and as quickly as possible. Even if I
I’ll keep them on my tail all day, I’ll use them up
all the batteries and everything. Think, Jim, move your ugly ones
brains.
At the very first turn I was presented with a wonderful opportunity.
opportunity to get out of this situation. Bumpy village
Which road ran across the field and led down to the stream. And then how
this usually happens with good ideas, built in my head
A beautiful, carefully thought out, cunning plan emerged. Without co-
After hesitating, I turned the steering wheel and drove down into the valley. Everything slowed down
barking and slowing down and feeling how they get stuck in the soft soil
the woods of my cart. If I get stuck here now, it will be
end. Or at least the end of my ownership of this thing.
guilt. Which I would like to keep on hekotopo
I think they came up with this machine as one way
punishments.
Here a crossroads appeared, ahead of me from under the wheels
immediately plunged into liquid mud, but then I stopped and
turned on reverse. Looking back over my shoulder, I tried to move
walk strictly along the rut that I myself made while descending
down.
Finally I got onto solid road. Switchingspeed,
I allowed myself to look at my work. Great! Traces of Ve-
whether directly to the water and into the water. On the road behind me I heard no
very distant whistle. I pressed on the gas with all my might and
flew around the bend at full speed, disappearing behind the trees.
I stopped there, turned off the engine, put the car in manual
brake and jumped to the ground. Now came the most dangerous
no. I needed to convince them to follow my steps. Ec-
If they don't believe me, I'll have very little chance
hide. But there was nowhere to go, we had to take risks. I pulled
While running, he stumbled and turned his jacket over to the other side.
Throwing it over his shoulders, he rolled up the sleeves and bent down to wrap it.
roll trousers. Not a very decent disguise, but in this
case and she could help. I hoped that the pursuers
managed to take a good look at me - if they even had me
saw. I stood at the place where I turned towards the stream, and also yc-
sang to scoop up some dirt and smear it on his face when he
a line of pseudo-steam machines crawled around the bend. They are for
slowed down when I stepped out onto the road and pointed at a hundred
the edge of the stream. And shouted:
- He went there!
The driver and shooter turned to the field and long paccmatpuba-
Are there any traces of me? The engine slowed down and then completely stopped.
sucker.- He plopped right into the water and continued to drive across the field. This one
is the guy your friend?
The decisive moment has arrived. It dragged on for an incredibly long time, and
here a second all-terrain vehicle appeared, which, having slowed down, also
stopped. What if they start questioning me - or
will they just take a closer look at me? I wanted it faster
run away - but if I do this, everything will fail.
- Follow him! - someone shouted, and the driver, turning the steering wheel,
turned into the field.
I ran back to the trees and watched them with majestic
with great interest. Simply beautiful. I was proud of myself, yes, I was.
And I was not ashamed to admit it. When an artist created
gives the greatest work of art, he knows it and doesn’t
tries to belittle its importance with false modesty. A
it was a real work of art. First car
thundered across the field, jumping and awkwardly squatting on
bumps, and crashed into the water at full speed, raising the mountain
splash Everything happened so quickly that the rear wheels found themselves
in the water even before the engine stalled. And the car became slow
but sink into liquid mud. She immediately completely covered
wheels, and they finally got stuck in it. All over the field
terrible screams and curses flew - and what’s the mostnotice-
However, someone pulled out a cable and connected the all-terrain vehicles together. Chu-
gum! The second all-terrain vehicle dug up the ground with its wheels, plunging
deeper and deeper into the soft soil, until he himself got stuck in it.
I clapped my hands joyfully and walked back to my car.
I shouldn't have done this, I knew it. But there are times in life
moments when it is simply impossible to resist the desire to curse
meddle. I got into the car, fastened my seat belt and...
moving back and forth, he turned it onto the road, after which
turned on full speed. Passing the unfortunate turn, I c
I pressed the buzzer forcibly. He squealed loudly and everyone turned around
in my direction, everyone looked at me with all their eyes. I waved
gave them a hand and laughed. And a wonderful sight flashed behind
trees, disappeared from sight. It was a victory march. I'm loud
laughed, sang and whistled merrily. When are the first delights
settled down, I moved the queen forward in my mental chess
parties. And he began to think about what his response might be.
The hissing of steam and the clanking of iron distracted me, and I, having carefully studied
devices, I discovered that all these special effects are simply
recorded and can be turned off. That's what I did, continuing
make your way to Kano Dimona Castle in peace and quiet. Day
was already in full swing when I finally got to it - and to
At this time I clearly understood the further development of the event.
tiy. When I turnedaround the last turn and went onto the dam-
boo, I had to start the special effects again, and I, thundering
and, whistling at full blast, drove up to the gate. I took my time
so that the guards have time to notice me and raise me partially
the bridge was installed long before I reached the gate.
Stopping in front of the gorge, I noticed that they were suspiciously
They look at me from behind the bridge with genuine curiosity.
- Don't shoot! I am a friend! - I shouted. - I am your soldier
army and Kano's close associate Dimona. Send for him immediately
because I know that he can’t wait to look at the new pa-
I'm buying a car.
He really couldn't wait. As soon as the bridge went down, he
I walked along it importantly and came up to me.
- Where did you get this? - he asked.
- Stole it. Come over to my place and I'll show you something interesting -
no.
-Where is the evaporative gas? - he asked, climbing up the chair.
penalties.
- I didn’t contact him. With this cart I developed
plan, even better than before. This is no ordinary steam engine,
as I hope you noticed. Modern and perfection
bathroom model, with some additions that will attract
your attention.- You're an idiot! What are you talking about? - He nervously moved his
sword; what an uncontrollable character.
- I will demonstrate, Your Majesty, because it’s better to do it once
to see is to hear a hundred times. I suggest you sit down and
terhytb this seat belt is like me. Guarantee
I hope that what you see will have a great impact on you.
chatting.
This aroused some curiosity in him. He sat down next to
with me, and I slowly rolled it along the dam all the way to the shore
ha. With all the appropriate sound effects. Here I am oc-
stood and turned towards him.
- What can you say about the speed of this car?
What is she usually like?
- Speed? You mean how fast it moves?
This is an excellent harness and goes much faster than my own
TV
- But you haven't seen anything yet, Kano. First of all, look at this
yes.
I turned off the noise, and he nodded understandingly.
- You turned off the ignition, and she fell silent and did not move.
- Just the opposite. I just silenced her so that
no one heard her approach. But she will go, and how!
After youanswer me one question. If this
the cart belonged to the enemy and appeared here - if only yours had time
soldiers to raise the bridge before she drove onto it?
He snorted derisively.
- What kind of a fool do you take me for, that you ask such questions?
stupid questions? While this ruin will rumble along the dam,
The bridge can be raised and lowered more than once.
- Yes, well? Then hang in there and we'll see what this little one is
can do.
I pressed the gas, and the all-terrain vehicle took off almost at full speed
silence. All you could hear was the hum of the engine and rustling
tires on smooth pavement. Faster and faster to the gate, which
They were approaching us at an alarming speed. The guards stood
standing in the doorway, barely had time to jump to the side, and we were half-
They drove at full speed onto the rough planks of the bridge, jumped onto
silently and smoothly rolled into the castle through the city gates. Stop-
hovering in the middle of the yard, I noticed that Kano was sitting in a car with
with bulging eyes and gasping for air. But a little onpabub-
Shaking, he pulled his sword out of its sheath.
- You are a traitor! Your attempt to kill me failed...
- Listen, Kano, it was just a demonstration. I'm
told you how I'm going to transport you and your soldiers through
cut gate of Kano Castle Doccia. Right through the opengate to
courtyard where you can kill, rob, destroy,
maim, destroy...
This calmed him down. The sword went back into its scabbard, and he
finally noticed what a commotion and surprise our
breakthrough
“You’re right,” he said, blinking frequently and coming to his senses.
normal state. - You gave me a very interesting idea,
soldier, and I would like to hear what else you have to say about
all this, over a cup of wine - as our walk turned out to be
something that I had never experienced before.
- I obey. But let me get this cart out of my sight first.
An attack will only be successful if it is
unexpected.
- You're right. Put this thing in the shed and I'll
I'll send security there.
The wine he gave me to try was pretty decent
compared to the sour meat that was given to the army, and I
I sipped it with pleasure. Just a little, because
I needed a clear head if the party was to develop
according to plan. I needed to find reasons that
would seem reasonable to him in order to convince him not to postpone-
launch an offensive. 'Cause if we take our time,
Professor Lustigwill bombard us with its gas bombs. I
I was sure he wasn't very happy that I stole
his racing car. And there aren't many castles in the area,
where it can be hidden. It's time to act. I'm mentally
put his rook forward and said:
- The castle of the scoundrel Docsia is no more from here than
five hours' walk - right?
- Five hours, four hours for the forced march.
- Fine. Then think about this. He attacked you
when you and most of the army were away. His troops
caused great damage to the bridge and the castle building itself. Before
before you dare to undertake a new offensive, you must
fix the bridge, maybe even hire new soldiers. In order to
the time when you start hostilities, no one could
take advantage of your absence. This is right?
He slowly sifted the wine and looked at me over the top of the glass.
- Yes, damn you, I think that’s how it is. Osto-
sorry, my officers always advise me to be careful
when I'm going to go to war against this beast,
take out his guts, skin him alive.
- So it will actually be, it opens before you
wonderful future. And unlike your officers I will not
advise you to be too careful. Think,what the hell is this
the yavol in the flesh must be destroyed - and immediately!
He really liked it, and it was clear that he was listening
me with unwavering attention when I reported to him my
plan.
- We leave everything here as it is - we take all the people with us -
dey. If everything goes as planned, you will return here co
with your army before anyone even knows that you are yxo-
dil. We will set out at night, silently, like spirits of vengeance, and on
at dawn we will take advantageous positions as close as possible to the castle Ka-
according to Docsia. I know the place. When the bridge is lowered at dawn, I will
with the help of your new car I will make sure that he stays
was left open. Your troops attack, capture the castle - and
victory is in our pocket. As soon as we conquer the castle, we will go
lem the strongest home.
- Everything could happen like that. But how are you going to...
stop them from closing the bridge?
When I explained this to him, he screamed for joy and
his face broke into a mischievous grin.
- Take action! - he shouted. - And I will make you rich for everything
life. With the help of rpoytob Docs, of course, when I capture
his wealth.
-You are too kind to your poor servant. Can I ta-
in any caseadvise that you send everyone in the castle away from-
breathe, because the night will not be easy for us?
- Yes, it will be done. I will give the appropriate orders.
After that, I quietly left Kano. Besides natural
worries about the tired bodies of my comrades, I
there were other reasons for wishing them good night in their
beds.
I had some other important tasks to complete,
before I can rest myself.
“Tools,” I said to Dreng, barely waking him up. - On-
saws, hammers and the like. Where can you find them here?
He ran his fingers deep into his tangled hair and diligently
scratched his head, probably trying to scratch out some
some thought.
I struggled to overcome the desire to grab him and
to shake; instead I waited patiently for him to
will end its delayed action. It is possible that something similar
a head massage helps him shake up his dull brain.
Therefore, I did not interfere with established practice.
And he finally spoke:
- I don't have any tools.
“I know, dear boy,” I heard them scrape
my teeth, butI forced myself to restrain myself. - You don't have any tools, but you
damn them
there should be. Who do you think?
“At the blacksmith’s,” he said proudly. - The blacksmith always
there are tools.
- Well done. Now, would you be so kind as to
can you show me where I can find it?
The one we were looking for turned out to be black as soot and hairy
a man in a very bad mood. He breathed on us
rum
- Get out of here, little one. Nobody ever touches
Grunge tools, no one.
Yes, really a little one! I shouldn't have called him
anger and angry grumbling.
- Listen, you dirty pig - these are Kano instruments, and
not yours at all. And Kano sent me for them. And now either I
I'll take them, or my squire will bring Kano here. This is for you -
what do you want?
- I don't have any tools.
“I know, dear boy,” I heard them scrape
my teeth, but
I forced myself to restrain myself. - You don't have any tools, but you
vat,bow and scrape.
- Of course, master. Grunge knows his place. Uhctpymeh-
You, of course, take my tools. Here's everything you need
whatever.
I squeezed past his bowing figure to bepctaky
with primitive devices. How touching!
I had to sort through a bunch of junk until I finally
I couldn’t find a suitable file, a hammer and some rough-
melted metal fragments that should have been useful -
Xia. I handed all this to Dreng.
- Take this. And you, Grunge, can pick up your in-
materials tomorrow morning in the garage.
Dreng followed me and, with awe,
hung on the steam engine.
“Shut your mouth, otherwise a fly will fly in,” I told him, taking it
tools. - Now I need a solid bag or something...
be a bag of this size. Find all this somewhere and
bring it to me. And then go to bed, because we don't
I'll be able to get some sleep tonight.
With real tools I could do the job in numbers.
these minutes. But I had a feeling that there was no
they adhered to precise tolerances, and if I even gave
I'll slowly get closer to the model, everything will be finein order. Metallic
Which side plating was about the same thickness as mine
wooden key. I cut a piece and sawed and knocked and did
notches, giving it the desired shape. It should do.
Dreng - like everyone else - had been asleep for a long time, and I could
begin an operation called the Great Grot. With key
in your pocket, with a bag tucked into your belt, silently, as if
shadow, I made my way into the very jungle of the castle. I memorized the map of Slo-
on, and his spirit had to keep me, at least I
found the treasure without any difficulty. I inserted the key into the
wet well, spat three times just in case and turned
him. Grinding on the metal, the key turned and the lock opened -
Xia.
My heart, as usual, was pounding in my chest, and I felt like
rooted to the spot. The noise could be heard. But, fortunately, not yc-
shawls. The door creaked quietly when I opened it, but
the next moment I was already inside the vaulted crypt and...
xohbko slammed it behind him. Wonderful. High barred
The windows let in enough light, and I saw huge sun-
duki in the far corner of the crypt. I had a great time with my financial
research, looking around the riches of this xbactyha, and I knew
what I needed here. The first chest was filled with copper
rpoytamu, I could tell by touch by their thickness. B lo-
hygienicsequences I discovered silver grots in
the next chest and filled half the bag with them. doing
this, I noticed a smaller chest standing inconspicuously noo-
far. I smiled in the darkness, putting my hand in there and feeling...
vav angular shapes. Golden grottoes - and a lot of them. It seems that
the walkie-talkie could be considered a success. I finished raking my mo-
nety and felt that the bag had become too heavy to lift. Beware
greed! Having listened to this advice of mine, I shouldered the sum
ku on his shoulder and went outside the same way. In the yard
armed guards were walking around, but they didn’t notice how I
carefully slipped into the barn. Turning on the headlights of the all-terrain vehicle,
which were enough to look around, I opened the lower
compartment for batteries and installed it there
bag with money. Closing it, I felt the greatest
relief. And mentally he put forward the btopu of the vaulted crypt and
xohbko slammed it behind him. Wonderful. High barred
The windows let in enough light, and I saw huge sun-
duki in the far corner of the crypt. I had a great time with my financial
head and sleep. Tomorrow will be an incredibly troublesome day.
I muttered something, fought back and turned away, but somehow
the irritant gave me no rest. Finally I opened my eyes and
growled angrily at Dreng, who did not stop shaking me
over the shoulder. He immediately jumped back in fear.- Don’t hit me, master, I’m doing what I was ordered to do.
zano. It's time to wake up, the army is already forming in the yard.
I grumbled something incomprehensible, which suddenly turned into...
shel. A cup immediately appeared in front of me, and I enjoyed
clung to the cool water, then leaned back on the bed.
Not for the first time, I appreciated the system in which everyone
a warrior must have a squire. But now I felt
beaten, worn out, exhausted. All these troubles and misfortunes
can undermine the endurance of even the young and full of strength
and body energy. I shook my head and stood up
elbow, angry with himself for his momentary weakness.
“Okay, I’m coming, Dreng,” I said. - Bring me something-
be something to eat to satiate my insides before the distant
dear. And more water, if possible, otherwise it looks like, in addition to al-
when these owners don’t serve anything.
I splashed cold water on my head, snorting and spitting...
covering the entire yard. Having blotted my face, I saw in a clear light
stars as soldiers line up in ranks, receiving amyhu-
tion.
The greatest adventure of my life is about to begin.
When I returned to the barracks, Dreng was already there waiting for me. I
sat down on the bunk and began to eat breakfast, which consisted of absolutelydisgusting fried beans soaked in some kind of otpabe,
which was called wine here. In the intervals between recordings
putting food in my mouth I had to speak because it
was the last moment when I could talk to my weapon -
night alone.
- Dreng, your military career is ending.
- Don't kill me, master!
- Military career, idiot, I didn’t say, your life. Se-
Today is the last night of your service, and in the morning you will be released
home with full payment. Where does your old father hide his money?
- We are so poor that we have no rpoytob.
- Yes, I think so too. But IF he had a little -
where would he put them?
This was probably a difficult question, because it will take a long time
thought as I chewed and swallowed my breakfast. Finally he
answered.
- I would bury them under the fireplace in the house! I remember he somehow
did. Everyone buries their money under the fireplace so that no one can find it
didn't find it.
- Wonderful. In this case, they will definitely be found. You should-
wives should deal with their wealth completely differently.
- Dreng has no wealth.
- Dreng will have wealthbefore sunrise. I you
I'll totally calculate it. You'll come home and find it near the hut
two trees. Stretch a rope between them. Dig a hole straight
under it, dividing the rope in half. Bury your money there - then
you can easily find them when you need them. But enough
give me a few coins at a time, not all at once. Do you understand me?
He nodded happily.
- Two trees, middle of the rope. Never heard anything
similar!
“It’s very important to know this,” I sighed. There was a lot in the world
something he had never heard of in his life. - Well, let's go. I
I want you to be a fireman on my fiery chariot.
I staggered to my feet and headed towards the barn. B then
while the soldiers had already lined up and were ready to
approach, the officers just appeared, stretching and yawning, in
chapter with Kano.
There was little time left. Dreng climbed into the car behind
me and squealed in fear when I turned on the instrument lights
ditch
- Devil's light! These are ghost lanterns! A sure sign
destruction!
He crossed his arms over his chest, preparing to die while I
I didn’t push him well.- Batteries! - I shouted. - The gift of science, denied in va-
in our nightmare world. Now stop whining and open up
your bag.
All thoughts of death instantly disappeared, and he opened his eyes when...
yes, I started filling his leather bag with silver and gold
rpoytamu. This was real wealth that should have
change his life completely, at least this is the only
personal good deed performed by me on this planet.
- What are you doing there?
It was Kano Dimon, suspiciously looking at us from below.
- We're warming up the engine, that's all, your Excellency -
quality
- Take your squire away, I'm getting into the car.
I waved to the stunned Dreng to move to the back
seat, and Kano climbed aboard.
-You are doing me a favor with your presence, Kano.
- You're damn right. I'll ride in the car while
the army will go on foot. Come on, start this thing.
Scouts had long since been sent forward when we
we walked across the bridge and drove out onto the dam. Main part
the troops followed us, and, despite the late hour, their gait
was quite cheerful. They all lost valuable things - and
someone and oruzhenoctsev - duringenemy raid. And all the py-
They were now burning with a thirst for revenge and profit.
“Kano Doccia must be captured alive,” he said suddenly
Kano Dimon. I was about to answer, but in time co-
I imagined that he was talking to himself. - Related and
helpless, he must be taken to my castle. First I
I'll rip off his skin, just a little, just enough for
ribbon for a hat. Then I'll probably gouge out his eyes. No - not
right away - he must see what is happening to him...
He said something else in the same spirit, but I stopped
to shuffle. I had a lot to think about - and even regret. When
The elephant was killed, rage overwhelmed me and took possession of me...
only that I didn't understand what I was doing. Now all the excuses
disappeared - I embarked on this enterprise solely for the sake of
revenge. And I couldn't proclaim that I was doing this for the sake of memory
Elephant, because he knew how much he was always against
similar violent acts. But it was too late to retreat. Kam-
The campaign had already begun, and we were quickly approaching the goal.
- Stop! - Kano suddenly commanded, and I pressed
on the brakes.
Ahead of us on the road stood a small group of people waiting
people - our scouts sent ahead. Kano jumped off
on the ground, and I bent down to see what they had therehappened. They led the man with his hands tied behind his back.
- What happened? - asked Kano.
- We discovered that he was watching the road, your npeboc-
walking. And they caught him before he could escape.
- Who is he?
- A soldier named Palek. I know him, we served together in
time of the southern campaign.
Kano approached apectobahhomy, bringing his face closer to him and
growling angrily:
- You are mine now, Palek. Twisted and tied.
- Well.
-Are you a Kano Doccii man?
- Well, I serve him. I received rpoyt from him.
- You probably drank it a long time ago. Will you serve y
me and receive my groyts?
- Well.
- Untie him. Barky, give this man a silver one
rpoyt.
The mercenaries fought gloriously, but they just as easily crossed over
to one side, then to the other.
Why not? They were not tied to any barracks
from Kano. As soon as Palek agreed to accept the coin, he
got his weapon back.“Tell me, Palek,” Kano commanded. - You are now my servant,
who receives my groyts. But you served y Kano Doccii.
Tell me about his plans.
- Well. It's no secret. He knows that your army remains intact
safe and sound and that sooner or later you will go to him
war. Several people were sent to watch the roads,
but he does not expect you to come so soon. He doesn't
pectaet to get drunk, which means that he is not expecting an attack-
nia.
- I’ll put a sword in his stomach and let the wine and guts out of there!
- Kano hardly forced himself to interrupt his dreams and believe-
come to reality. - Well, what about the troops? They will s-
huddle?
- Well, they just got paid. But they don't like him very much and
will go over to the enemy's side as soon as the battle is over
played.
- This is better. Get in line, scouts forward, start
di car.
The last one was for me, and he quickly climbed up
up.
I pressed the gas and we continued to advance. More of us
nothing and no one stopped, and we, having made a smallshaft, approached the enemy’s castle long before sunrise. Time
the witchers were waiting for us by the road in the very place I had chosen
ral in advance. Castle Kano Doccia was located at the next turn
potom.
“I’ll post sentries,” said Kano.
- Agree. My squire will show them the exact place where
they will be able to watch the gate, out of sight, - I
waited until he moved away and whispered to Dreng in
yxo:
- Take your bag and everything you have with you, - you say-
you won't come back again.
- I don’t understand, master...
- You'll understand if you close your mouth and listen, instead of-
go to chat. Take the soldiers to those bushes where we are hiding -
They were angry when they came here to rescue the Elephant. Do you remember this month-
then?
- This is right behind the burnt tree, standing above the living exile -
birth...
- Great, great - I don't need your descriptions. Take me away
soldiers there, as I said, show them where to hide, and yourself
hide behind them. When the sun rises, it will begin here
a real mess. During this time you do absolutely nothing
what, you understand me - don’t say,just nod?
He nodded.
- Wonderful. You stay there until everyone rushes off.
ed. As soon as everyone runs away and no one is on you
look - run away. Back to the forest and home, and sit there quietly,
until the passions subside. Then count your money and live
happily.
- It turns out that I will no longer be your henchman?
- Right. Discharged from the army with honors.
He fell to his knees in front of me and grabbed my hand, but still...
Before he had time to utter a word, I pressed my finger to his
lips.
-You were a good weapon. Now be a good farmer
rum Run!
I watched him go until he disappeared into the darkness.
Stupid - but loyal. And the only friend on this sting is
what planet? The only friend I needed so much
dim! Especially now that the Elephant... Thank God, my sad
thoughts were interrupted by Kano, who again climbed onto his seat
denier. Armed soldiers followed him, and soon they
packed into the car to the brim. Kano took a sneak peek
to the sky.
- The first ray has already appeared. Dawn is coming soon. And then the startno.
ed. As soon as everyone runs away and no one is on you
look - run away. Back to the forest and home, and sit there quietly,
darkness, unclear outlines of soldiers’ faces began to appear c
with the same gloomy expression. I concentrated all my attention
obsession with what was happening around the corner, remembering how
this was when Dreng and I were hiding there. We waited and watched
whether. Behind the closed gates of the castle, behind the raised bridge, behind the
how they became more and more distinct every minute. Sun
rose higher and higher, and because of the thick city walls it seemed
There was smoke from the fire where breakfast was being prepared. Then in
the barracks sounded the signal to rise, changing of the guard. Finally
the gates opened and the bridge was lowered. What then? Will they follow
are they routine? If not, our forces will soon be
spotted...
- Signal! - said Kano, pushing me forcefully in the side with his elbow.
It was unnecessary. I myself saw a soldier who waved
hand to us as soon as he appeared around the bend. The leg is already yes-
I stepped on the gas and we quickly picked up speed. Rounding the bend,
we rushed straight to the entrance to the castle, jumping and swinging
wallow on the bumps. The guards stared at us in surprise and froze.
la in amazement as we rapidly approached
to them. The slaves pushing the cartstopped dead in their tracks and
They also looked at us with all their eyes. Then the terrible one rose
cry. The bridge creaked as they tried to lift it, but
the cart and slave were still standing on it. Kicks and
shrill orders, but every lost second is inexorable
brought us closer to the gate. They began to push the cart
back to the yard - but it was already too late. We got ahead of them. Pe-
the middle wheels touched the bridge, we jumped into the air and
landed with a loud crash, crashing into
cart. I braked, the slaves and guards dived into the ditch with water,
afraid of being crushed, and we skidded across the bridge and
stuck in the city gates.
- For Kano Dimona, for the groyts, for the Lord God! - shouted Ka-
by jumping out of the car and rushing into the attack.
The others also rushed after him, and I backed down a little.
Behind me I could hear the screams and stomping of the advancing army. I
I saw how Kano and his people captured the mechanism, lifting
passing bridge. Although it was still impossible to lift it, because
because my car fell on him with all its weight. B
This was the beauty and simplicity of my plan. Time
I’ve already driven onto the bridge, it will remain lowered while I’m here. Well
and now I could ride forward to let through the gate
the rest of the army. Howl at us? Then the terrible one rosethere was an unexpected attack, which actually caught
take them by surprise. Our forces occupied the drawbridge and the post-
foam filled the castle courtyard, while stone
Kano Doccia soldiers began to jump out. Guards on the go-
family walls fought fiercely and bravely, but we clearly
increased them in number. In addition to the general confusion, I
turned on special noise effects and released steam from the whistle, while
joined the crowd of castle defenders blocking my path. B my
even a few shots were fired from one side, but most
the soldiers, dodging from under the wheels, ran away. Wheels
squealed when I suddenly slowed down and looked around,
fell in love with the picture of the battle. The defenders on the walls capitulated
fall one by one, raising your hands in the air. Yielding to us
numbers from the very beginning and without any particular reason to be
devotees of Kano, as we were told, they would now be happy to
whether to save their lives. At the entrance to the main building there is a group of officials
the ditch showed miracles of courage, and the main battle flared up
there. But they, one after another, left the battle, some of them defeated
with the enemy's sword, who recognized himself defeated in time.
Two of their team tried to hide in the building, but were discovered
They lived that the door slammed shut on them just before they arrived.
I joined the crowd of castle defenders blocking my path. B myeven a few shots were fired from one side, but most
the soldiers, dodging from under the wheels, ran away. Wheels
squealed when I suddenly slowed down and looked around,
fell in love with the picture of the battle. The defenders on the walls capitulated
fall one by one, raising your hands in the air. Yielding to us
numbers from the very beginning and without any particular reason to be
devotees of Kano, as we were told, they would now be happy to
whether to save their lives. At the entrance to the main building there is a group of officials
the ditch showed miracles of courage, and the main battle flared up
there. But they, one after another, left the battle, some of them defeated
with the enemy's sword, who recognized himself defeated in time.
Two of their team tried to hide in the building, but were discovered
They lived that the door slammed shut on them just before they arrived.
- Bring torches! - Dimon shouted to Kano. - Now we you-
we smoke them from the castle!
┌──────────────────────┐
│ To be continued │
└──────────────────────┘
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