"Star Legacy II" Introductory novella.

Get Msg, All! I have long dreamed of putting this masterpiece by Yuri Matveev (STEP) here. It's a pity that I the game never came out - after all, something global was planned!! Taken from ZX-Review #1-2 // 1996, Moscow. * Crossposted in ZX.SPECTRUM * Crossposted in SPBZXNET.GAMES *Crossposted in ZX.TALKING *Crossposted in HARLANS.FILTERED === Cut === [1] ==================================== (C) Yuri Matveev, 1995-1996 STAR LEGACY Part 2: Beyond the Universe * Novella - introduction * ===================================== From secret report No. 186 Is- Breathing Directorate of the Military Meetings of the Central Union of Mankind Eternal Colonies (October 3756): "According to the results of the conducted I report that the agent is co- performed a jump transition according to the standard diagram and passed the Schiller point without interference Trajectory of movement in hyper- the tunnel meets all parameters reached the designated target. However, according to according to regular jumpologists, the ship agent deviated from the calculated path - torii. Determine the reason for the deviation impossible. There is an assumption that in Jump time period from 3 to 7.5 milliseconds there was a collision with foreign body. There is also special opinion of one of the experts, which, based on its own ma- thematic displays involves following: ship jump transition agent was deliberately interruptedartificially by an external body, having the ability to block jump engines. If taken into account attention to these assumptions, then according to the expert opinion, the agent could intercept the race's patrol ships artangs. In this regard, I propose review the results of the investigation at the next meeting of the special Commission of the Military Conference. Deputy Chief Advisor RUVS for support issues Colonel Sun Sid Jurgens." From the transcript of a closed meeting special commission of the Armed Forces (November 3756 year): "Due to the fact that at this time ment is not possible continuation of the investigation of the case "Neustrashimy", all documents and re- archive the results of the investigation. Colonel Sid Jurgens prepare press release. Message text subject to agreement before publication meeting with the Chairman of the Military Council longing..." From the official message of the Military Meetings (published in all central publications and transmitted by to all communication channels in December 3756 year): "...Military Conference of the Central The Union of Human Colonies decided strongly refutes the statements of the mini- Ministry of Defense and Support Forces Expansion of artangs about alleged violation Leyva Peace Treaty. VS CSCHK officially declares that there are no violations of reached agreements there wasn't. All statements and rumors about the entry into the area of competence of the SOPE representative of the Military Conferenceprovocation of those forces that want violate the established Leivsky Treaty parity and balance between our races. The Supreme Council of the CSCHK will be henceforth to resist every kind of pro- provocations aimed at inciting interracial hatred" * * * From the minister's secret report SOPE of Plud Wroger to the Supreme Co- to the Expansion Commander (December 3757): "...According to the information we have, CSCHK agent who infiltrated Raksla, left the planet using Temper's central trough. Unfortunately Leniya, special unit security failed to intercept object. Employees of the ob- discovered in the Temporal Zone leaving object-bound human lifeboat "Mukha" brand. Ministry of SOPE dis- believes data that the object managed to get through the Temporal whirlwind and go beyond the known space for us. At the moment impossible to determine the exact location The object's exit from zero deflection." Supreme Commander's Mark Expansion in the fields of secret report: "Take immediate action. Object find and destroy." From Plud's administrative note Vroger to the Implementation Department officer Kratu Agon: "...use everything available in You have the opportunity to definitions of structural karmagram object..." * * * Sid Jurgens came out of his office nope. The working day is long over. All employees and employees of the MilitaryThe meetings have already gone home. Only security personnel remained in the Armed Forces building. scientists and employees of scientific laboratories ries that worked around the clock. In addition to them, there were robots in the building - cleaners who are leisurely busy fulfilled their direct responsibilities. Sid walked along a long, brightly lit down the corridor to the high-speed elevator. Today marked the last the lowest point in the case of the BC agent "Fearless." Yesterday according to everyone was transmitted to media channels Official Statement of the Military Co- broadcast, in which, understandably, ranks, the main military organization CSCHK, dissociated itself from all rumors, related to the case of "Neustrashimy". A already today Sid personally archived it mysterious matter. Chief Military Co- vetnik and without blinking an eye, silently signed the folder with the results investigations. A little later, Sid sent went to the Archive and handed over the file to the local secretaries. He perceived closure affairs as a personal tragedy. Still - how much effort was spent on the investigation dovanie. In addition, Sid personally knew com with agent. "Fearless" - man- a century of enormous willpower, very experienced employee - and suddenly disappeared without a trace. A person who has been in such pe- in squalor, from which I could not get out myself Devil. Frankly, Sid doesn't believe realized that "Fearless" could leave no trace disappear into interstellar space. And no matter what happens to him, he must I would definitely make myself known. From anypoints of the Universe. He would find a way. But the fact remained a fact - not a single a hint that "Fearless" is alive. Although, while the investigation dragged on, through the prism of official communications Artang Ministry of SOPE, pro- looked at the conclusion - “Undaunted” managed to defeat the Artang patrol and to land on the legendary Raxxla. But what happened to him next? For this there was no answer to the question. Raxxla - planet-mystery, planet- the dream of desperate pilots, completely belonged to the Artangs. Coordinates star system in which it was located planet, were classified. Accurate Only the pilots knew the coordinates of Raksla from the "Dark Wheel" league, but about this closed organization has nothing for a long time couldn't be heard. Thus, the Military the new Conference could not send there its people, and therefore could not and continue to investigate the case. Sid Jurgens understood that the official official statement from the Ministry of War va Artang about rumors around agent Vo- of the meeting - just a verified ka on the "liceiness" of the CSCHK agents. But from it didn't get any easier. It was clear one thing - when THEY demonstrated on the entire universe alive and unharmed pilot of "Artang the Great" "Fearless" has not yet reached them paws. Was he alive or did he become food? for some toothy predator with that planet is another question. The only alarming thing was that after official statement artangi pain-They never once mentioned the agent. Sid entered the elevator and pressed the button number "8". He decided that before how to head home, be sure to looks at the official status of the case "Fearless" in the Archive. Sid wanted in make sure for the last time that the main thing is register opposite the case of "Neustrashimy" and his own name is worth sadness - The label is "CASE CLOSED". When the elevator arrived on the eighth floor, he went out into a small hall and mechanically turned right along the corridor towards the Archive. There's no one here it was. Somewhere far away, at the very end corridor, the cleaning robot hummed quietly. It must be said that these cleaners had quite powerful artificial in- intellect and, if necessary, with them it was possible to make small talk. Sometimes robots met and saw off visitors to the Military Conference. Sid Jurgens walked to the door, flowing into the information repository, and pressed several buttons on the code castle But the door did not open. Surprised- but he chuckled and repeated the set. No way th result. Sid rummaged around in confusion. in the inside pocket of his jacket. I took out an electronic organizer and fresh ril access code to information storage. Everything is correct. The code is not me- nyali. Then what's the matter? He's the last one repeated the code combination once and turned to a robot passing by to the janitor: - Hey, wait! - Good evening! - responded clean male robot voice. - Who has entered in the last hour?storage? - asked Sid Jurgens. - Nobody, - Robot manipulators sank down and began to quickly pick up a small spot on the floor near Colonel's feet Sid Jurgens looked at his feet: - Leave work. Is there data about visitors to the Archive? - No. - What, no data at all? - No data. Sid Jurgens looked at him warily. a crazy robot. He himself today when I submitted the case, I saw several people who granted access to the storage I'm missing. And this robot should have too see them. This means entering all the information formation into its electronic positronic memory. But, as you can see, the iron idiot's memory was virgin absolutely pure. Sid Jurgens was confused. Send this idiot behind security? Or maybe Should I go myself? While he is thinking - Shaft your decision - the door to the vault swung open suddenly. He stood towards her half a turn and didn’t have time to understand anything - a crushing blow to the temple knocking over - kicked him onto his back. For a few seconds my eyes darkened. When he jumped on There was no one left in the corridor. Sid Jurgens flew through the open door and I was stunned - chaos reigned in the storage room. Inner door leading to the whole treasure troves of information - in the holy of holies storage, was carefully cut out. The thief worked with a heavy laser with a point guidance - all key security The important points were in place and were not touched. The laser machine stood on a tripod opposite the mutilated door. It seems,that the thief knew the security system diagram alarms. The eyes of video cameras are looked helpfully through the draped over they are transparent video filters. I see, that on the central console they saw the use essentially what needs to be seen, so as not to trigger the alarm. Au- the microphones were filled with some kind of viscous dark liquid that appears to be completely drowned out all sounds, sending barked at the central security console. It took no more than three seconds. He jumped out storage and rushed to the elevator. Cabin was on this floor. So pre- the footer rushed down the stairs. Near exit to the landing Sid I saw the security alarm remote control. Without thinking, he broke the protective glass and forcefully pressed deep into the red button. While the siren was blaring, Colonel rushed headlong down the stairs - it seemed to him that he could still overtake unknown. But he's on the third floor stopped: the window on the interstaircase the platform is wide open, and the railings are the end of the rope is knitted. The other end of the was located below, at the level of the first floor. - What happened Sid? - asked for a familiar voice behind me. - Who turned it on siren? The Colonel turned around. On the stairs climbed Keith Brown - specialist in external contacts of the Military Council - nia. Sid Jurgens explained it all happened. Brown looked carefully looked at Jurgens and turned to already to the running guards: - We have an emergency. Urgently cordon everything offbuilding. Close all entrances and exits yeah... While Keith Brown gave instructions security, Sid Jurgens came in a little himself, but his left one hurt terribly temple, which received an unexpected blow famous He looked blankly at the reigning There's a fuss around. In about five minutes in the building there were so many people that it seemed as if a new working day had begun. Sid was interrogated several times workers of various special services, people from internal investigations department and a man even asked him a couple of questions from the galactic police. Soon he I learned what I feared most: the criminal stole from the Archive storage the case of "Neustrashimy". Sid Jurgens It took me a long time to come to my senses after that because news. Everyone else was shocked employees of the Military Conference: only what about the settled conflict with artang- we promised to flare up with renewed vigor. However, many immediately assumed - the case of "Neustrashimy" could be of interest to try the artangs themselves and, which is quite one of them was probably involved in the theft numerous agents recruited aggressors. But no one could imagine It is clear that among the Armed Forces employees there are Artang spy. However, the first re- the results of the theft investigation are only confirmed this assumption. Pre- the thief knew the security system very well Archive, had direct access to the storage facility, perfectly oriented - in the intricacies of the corridors of the huge new building. Everything said that the thief was one of his own. Hot on the heelsIt was not possible to apprehend the criminal. Next The authors were inclined to conclude that that the thief worked with partners who They were waiting for him near the Armed Forces building. Here just how they were able to go unnoticed cross the border of the territory in which the swarm housed the Military complex Meetings? In any case, external The guards did not see or hear anything. Or maybe among them there is also Artang people? Within three after- the next few days were hardly interrogated not all military personnel. But it didn't give no results. In the end the investigation reached a dead end. Sid Jurgens followed closely progress of the investigation and was aware of all matters. He hoped it wasn't over yet lost to experienced specialists from the Bureau Investigations will be able to trace spy But every day and every Over time, his illusions melted away. Calmed one thing: since the artangs needed a job "Fearless" means he is still alive and caused them a lot of trouble. And It can still really annoy them. Otherwise with Why all this? Sid's thoughts were spinning around one question - what do they need? in the "Neustrashimy" case? Biography? Hardly. His biography is no different from thousands of others. List of completed special assignments? Well, that's all already in past, it is naive to think that artangs will charge him with all charges destroyed articles. And it’s not in their power lah hold trials. Much easier smash the hated agent to pieces from gravimet. Or maybe they are interestedpoked the results of his investigation disappearance? So on this score they know much more than any person from the special commission of the Military Council broadcasting. There is only one thing left - personal medical Qing map, which, in addition to pro- which includes biological examinations information about his body, data from geneticists, psychologists and other specialists. Of course! Personal M-card a person - that's what might be of interest artangs. Using this map it was possible if desired and possible, recreate an exact copy of the individual. Blind double He will be like two peas in a pod similar to its "ancestor" in appearance appearance and character, in manners and in level of knowledge. But why do they need two nickname? In order to torture and interrogate what? Shake everything out of him knows? No. Created by M-card the double will not be able to tell the artangs nothing but his official belief these. Secret knowledge of the object in M- card not included. Then what? On Sid Jurgens couldn't find this question answer. All that was clear was that “Undaunted” my" became a bone in the throat for the artangs, for for his sake they started the game with a trump card - a spy was involved in this case, revealing your cards ahead of time. And this situation needed to be addressed somehow use. Security measures taken after an emergency that occurred in the military building on the planet Leiv, brought one re- result: five days after the incident processions secret intelligence reportsAdministration reported that which, with a high degree of probability, is the case "Fearless" has not yet left the pre- Delov Leyva. And it was probably main achievement. * * * From a secret message from an officer Affairs of the Implementation of Krata Agon to the Minister SOPE to Plud Wroger: "...as a result of the measures taken managed to get an M-card of the object. On options are currently being discussed sending the card to the area of competence SOPE. Please indicate possible recipients..." From a hologram of a communication session between Plud Wroger and Krat Agon: "Plud Vroger: Your employee will be met in the border zone of the sector KH-18. Krat Agon: I will convey all instructions immediately. Only... Plud Vroger: What's the matter? Krat Agon: Taking off for the crossing thieves CSCHK delegation with our collaborators no one on board will be guarded by the es- personnel of the Military Conference... Plud Vroger: I'll take care of everything I wonder myself. Your job is to carry out the instructions command. Krat Agon: Lightning Fast Local war? Plud Vroger: I hope this is not the case will come to bloodshed (restrained laughter). Krat Agon: I understand. Arta Nanga!! Plud Vroger: Arta Nanga! Operator's voice: End of call session zi." * * * === Cut === [I.ZX] Warm greetings, Slava! [We don’t need the sun - the party is shining for us, we don’t need bread - give us work!]

Get Msg, All! * Crossposted in ZX.SPECTRUM * Crossposted in SPBZXNET.GAMES *Crossposted in ZX.TALKING *Crossposted in HARLANS.FILTERED === Cut === [2] * * * Diplomatic ship "Polyus" in escorted by five military cruisers from the Yastreb squadron left the hyper- tunnel in the region of the star Gamma Mouse and set a course for the planet Kareon. Through non- how many hours does a diplomatic delegation- tion of the CSCHK was supposed to meet with delegation of the Ministry of SOPE artan- gov. This was long planned meeting, one of the few at which questions about the status must be resolved representatives of two civilizations neutral planets. Sid Jurgens led the delegation. There were eight people in total on the Polyus. Three from his unit: specialist via external contacts Kate Brown, commander of the landing group "Throw" August Kimov and the pilot of the ship "Pulse" - Nick Werder. When the ships left hypertun- Nelya, everyone was already ready to meet with delegation of artangs at one of the stations tions like "Dodo" rotating around Kareona. Sid Jurgens sat in a chair opposite tive of the main overview screen and see breathed an unfamiliar starry sky. In these he had never been to the edges of the Universe. Aliens, unusually shaped constellations, and very few bright stars. Red- orange gamma of the Mouse, like a dog- burning candle, on its last legs carried her sad light into space qualityFrom where he stood, Sid saw how... sedately closes around their ship ring of war cruisers of the squadron "Hawk". Was this security reliable? Sometimes he asked himself this question. Probably yes, five modern military new ships of humanity could confront several patrolmen artang cruisers and yet the consequences the probability of a likely battle could hardly have been calculated even the most powerful computer... When it beeped on my left wrist buzzer and red light flashed, Sid Jurgens switched to reception. - Sid, this is Nick Werder, can't you? can you come to me in Central Remote control? - Anything urgent? - I think you'll find it interesting. - I'm coming. Sid left the observation room and headed towards the bow of the ship Central Console. He's in the corridor met the commander of the paratroopers Avgu- hundred Kimov, who was going there. His Nick also called. They crossed the orange zherey compartment and approached the open doors of the Central Console. In the chair Nick Werder was at the controls. He even didn't turn around when they entered. - What's the matter Nick? - perplexed asked Sid Jurgens. - I just received a message from the Artang delegation, - said Nick, - They demand that the ships be withdrawn squadrons into the neutral zone. And they ask then follow only our ship. - So there is an official regulation- cop,” August Kimov reasonably noted. “They didn’t care about the regulations,” Nick Werder grinned, “They say thatcircumstances have changed... - Wait... - Sid Jurgens looked on the radar screen, where the whole a cluster of flickering dots, indicating the ships of the Artangs were burning. - Yes they have There are three times more ships than ours! Nick Werder nodded silently. “I don’t like all this,” he said. til Kimov. - Maybe I should call Keith? - say- Nick hall - He will try to negotiate with them - rush... - Call. - Sid looked again to the screen. Far ahead there is a dense cloud of a squadron of artan ships hung with varnish gov. He counted them at least fifteen tee. - And you, August, contact yours - let them be prepared... just in case. While Nick and August were fulfilling their duties, the teachings of Sid Jurgens, who several times turned to the onboard for help computer. For a request for quantity and type of ships he received artangs disappointing information. Powers Artangs were superior to the forces of people in three times. There was complete disregard reification of previous agreements. In the end, now the ships of the TsSChK had every right to turn back and refuse to meet with the artangs. B this situation was urgently needed make some decision. When the Central Control Panel enters walked Kate Brown - specialist in external to his contacts - Nick Werder set up external receiver for the next session communications. Keith walked through the Tsen Hall minesweeper console and, with a quick glance on the screen and whistled slightly. - Have they gone crazy?is it? - Keith Brown said indignantly. Sid Jurgens brought Brown up to date. He collected himself for a few seconds thoughts. - Kate, now everything comes only from you. “It depends,” said August Kimov. At that moment the buzzer beeped, announcing the start of a communication session. On the go a three-dimensional image flashed on the loscreen the life of the head of the Artang delegation. Oh yes it was Plud Vroger himself - right the hand of their Supreme Commander Ex- pension. Fat artang, dressed in gray ribbed suit with belt inflated belly with a golden ribbon, ho- looked kindly at everyone present through dark glasses. - Greetings to the CSCHK delegation! - the visitor gurgled. Sid Jurgens could barely keep his face a convulsive diplomatic smile. The Artang toad is at least not harmonized with the local interior. - General greetings to all of you! - Answered Kate Brown in the Artang language. Plud Vroger approached the camera and his green pimply face took up almost the entire holoscreen. Sid Yur- Gens leaned back in his chair - he I felt a little uneasy. - By order of our Commander I have to ask you to refuse escort,” said Artang. - This will violate our previous agreements- "wariness," Keith Brown said dryly. -Have you thought well? - We discussed this situation. - Fine. In that case... - Plud Wroger fell silent for a second, - We will forced... The control room became quiet. But barely audibleclicking of sensors and other appa- The controls of the control panel appeared Sid Jurgens with the roar of a rockfall. Plud Vroger was silent. He was probably an excellent psychologist. And he paused survived. People looked at him with hidden, almost animal fear. B these seconds they realized that artangs ready for the fight. And doubts about no one had any idea about the outcome of the battle, lo. -...So you refuse to take your ships? - Suddenly asked again forces Plud Vroger, without finishing the previous current phrase. - However, it’s probably possible if just... - Keith Brown began, but Sid Jurgens interrupted him: - Yes. We refuse. A shadow flashed across the artang's face discontent. He studied carefully Sida through dark glasses. - Who is authorized to conduct video transmission? talk? - In the Artang language the phrase sounded quite sharp - gurgling turned into something similar to chicken clucking. Jurgens immediately realized that Plud is very angry. But now those there was nothing to swear and he had metal in him voice said: - Colonel Sid Jurgens to yours services. You are violating all our previous agreement. We believe it is possible may refuse to negotiate such conditions. Artang looked around at those sitting in the control room with a contemptuous look and unexpectedly passed out. Where you just moved his image flowed, flashed banner: "Temporary shutdown." The first to break the silence was Kate Bra- un:- Sid, we will be ground into powder! They have more than fifteen cruisers! They don't let us leave! - What do you suggest? - asked Sid Jurgens. - Well... if you agree... - Dancing to their tune? - interrupted Keita August Kimov. - I'm not going to. “You see,” said Sid Jurgens, turning to Keith. - Today they pro- They are planning to withdraw the ships of the squadron. Tomorrow they will ask Leif to be freed for them, and the day after tomorrow to cleanse the Earth. Where are we then look? We can't go with them on occasion. - What are you talking about?! - Keith's voice Brown trembled slightly, - Are you really Do you think we have another way out? We cannot fail to fulfill their conditions! We won't have time to leave! They won't give it to us! I don't I want to turn into dust sooner ka! - He was silent for a while, and then added: “I think you all don’t either.” We would really like this. Nick Werder and August Kimov exchanged glances lost. They've never seen before Keita like this. Sid Jurgens studying looked at an external specialist contacts. In the wheelhouse hung a heavy silence. The first to respond to Keith's words was August Kimov called: - Finally. Affected selfish questions. For that matter, I'm ready clean the faces of these toads. I've been for a long time dreamed of meeting them alone one... - That's it! - Keith interrupted him - One on one! How many are there? What about us? - While there is time to turn, they do not They will have time to intercept us,” said Augustus. “Five minutes,” interjected the silent before this Nick Werder, looking at the instrumentry, - Otherwise, they will catch up with us. And then close combat cannot be avoided... We need to make a decision urgently. “Decide for yourself,” he waved his hand. Kate Brown. - I said everything. Just remember No, we don't have a chance... Sid Jurgens barely opened his mouth to to summarize, as the zoom beeped again - measures, and the auto attendant announced the start communication session. Banner "Temporary shutdown" crumbled into splashes stars and appeared in the holoscreen area Plud Vroger: - What did you decide? - without preamble asked the Artang minister. - We'll meet next time. Oh at the beginning of the negotiations we will inform you additionally “Yes,” said Sid Yurgens. - I am forced to warn you about possible consequences. - I think we can work it out all through diplomatic means. - It’s unlikely... - What? Is this a threat? - We need to get a guarantee tii. - I don’t understand you. What are the guarantees? -Leave us one person- So that we can be sure that negotiations will be resumed. In pro- Otherwise it will be difficult for me to predict tell your future. - You demand to leave you in charge deceivers of one of the members of the case cation of CSCHK? - Yes. I don't think this will work for you have a lot of work. Give us one person and... you can fly with By God. Sid Jurgens felt his forehead covered in sweat. Somewhere in the depths without consciousness, he understood that artangs playing a double game, but there was no way unravel their true intentions.- Sid, time is running out, - quietly said the slightly pale Nick Werder taking his eyes off the instruments. - Your condition is not accepted, - snapped Sid Jurgens. - Think carefully. Do you have one minute. I'll wait - image Vroger's plud froze. On the other end turned on pause mode. Keith Brown approached the man sitting in chair Sid Jurgens and touched his shoulder: - Sid. I'm ready to stay with them. For the sake of our salvation. - No. - Why? - We're coming back. - This is stupid, Sid! We won't make it in time! “We have three minutes,” he added. Nick Werder. - We'll make it. - They will take us in hypertransition, right after the Schiller point!!! - Almost shouted Keith Brown. - Sid! Remember "Fearless"! Some lightning flashed in my brain Sid Jurgens and for a moment highlight- la chain of recent events in the building Military Conference on the planet Leiv. Something painfully pricked my consciousness, some elusive idea flashed through, but he didn’t immediately catch on to it. This the moment turned on at full speed the subconscious is at work. Without listening to the pre- Dov Keith, Sid ordered Nick to turn- clean the ships. - You're a fool! - Keith screamed. - Glu- Thump! Nick, don't listen to Jurgens! He's ready We are facing a terrible death!! Everyone remained silent. A second later, in the image of Plud came to life again in the wheelhouse Vroger. - What is your final decision? - B Artang's voice showed irritation. - See you! - Sid Yur exhaled - Gens and turned off the transmitter. Imagethe life of Plud Vroger plunged into darkness. - What did you do?? - Keith whispered Brown. - They... - Stop it! - filtered through teeth Sid Jurgens. - Nick, how are you? - Let's turn... Kate Brown, without saying a word, headed towards the doors. - Kate, where are you going? - asked sternly Sid. External Relations Specialist stopped and slowly turned around. He looked at Sid silently, with poorly concealed perceived displeasure. On his lips Beads of sweat appeared. “Stay here,” Sid ordered. Jurgens. Keith Brown complied. He passed through the entire control room and collapsed in free chair. The ships are as fast as they go perhaps they were restructuring and preparing We were about to launch into hyperspace. By- the last two minutes seemed to Sid eternity. He watched the clear actions of Nick Werder and tried don't think about anything. They will have time to break out of the trap. If only it weren't hitches. The diplomats who were on "Pole" has already been warned that negotiations broke down and they remained in their cabins. August Kimov gave last orders to his soldiers from the landing group "Throw", which was in full force at the leading on the same ship. Everything went spontaneously developed plan. When before the start forty seconds remained, Jurgens was ready walked from behind to Nick sitting at the control panel and glared at the viewing screen. The Artangs were moving towards them at full speed. By- it seems that the aggressors have not yet losthopes of intercepting human skins rabli. "It's strange what they expect - are they? They don't have much of a chance the distance is great. Or maybe we don't Did you take into account any details?" Nick Werder started the countdown. Presenter the ship reached the starting point and reported message about readiness for a hyperjump. De- ten seconds before the start, nine... August Kimov sat in the co-pilot's seat, to contact your group. Yur- Gens was still standing behind them and didn't take his eyes off the radar Seven...Six...I touched something cold- moose back of Sid's head: - Stand and don’t move! - sounded - lo behind. It was Keith's voice. - Nick, cancel the jump.. Well! Otherwise I'll kick you out he's got the brains! The cold barrel of a blaster hurts bit into Sid's temple. Nick and August looked at Keith in shock Brown. His face was distorted. He held a mini at arm's length blaster of the Magma system. - Nick, I'm the presenter. I turn on hyper engines! - sounded from the speakers. - Let them go, it’s cold ordered Keith. - I'm Nick. - With God - answered the question - pros Werder, obeying the orders of Brau- on. A moment later the ships of the group escorts disappeared into the inter- starry space, leaving behind yourself slightly glowing foggy sleep Rali. Hopes faded as the spirals lost their correct shape and evaporated before our eyes. Artang ships were approaching quickly. - Now you understand why we don’t will we have time to leave? - said Keith Brown. -Werder, lead the ship towards Artan- din... - Well, you're a creature! - Sid muttered Jurgens, and tried to turn around facing Keith. - Stop, Jurgens! You'll be fine behave - maybe you will survive... - For greater persuasiveness, Brown poked pointing at the back of Sid's head. Sid noticed that August Kimov slowly reaches out with his hand to your holster. And he tried to distract Brown: - And I thought that you were the one who was so scared - there were toads... How could I not have guessed right away! It turns out you have things in common with them. It seems to me that there is something wrong in your cabin "Fearless" lies. I wonder for how much did they buy you?.. - This shouldn't worry you. Better take care of your skin! It was difficult in these harsh words find out everyone's favorite Keith. Sid Jurgens could not believe that he friend is an Artang spy. - You understand, Kate, that you’re tired of- ka! The end, do you understand?? - Sid Jurgens did not take his eyes off August's hand Kimov, who was carefully unbuttoning blaster holster. “The end of all of you...” he said quietly. Brown. - And first I’ll deal with my- by our affairs... Hey! Kimov! I said no fight! - With these words the specialist along external contacts, he moved the barrel of the blaster erased from the back of Jurgens' head and pressed release button. Laser beam hit August's shoulder. Commander de- by that time he was already holding the saniters weapon in hand, but didn’t have time to shoot - the blaster fell to the floor right under his feet Sid Jurgens. Shouting out, Augustuspoured onto the side. Sid Jurgens used moment and lunged at Keith Brown. With a deft move he managed to knock out his hands were a weapon, but Brown rushed down behind August Kimov's blaster. On- power arrived Nick Werder, who with one crushing blow to the head ve, folded into a fist with both hands, knocked Brown to the floor. That one for some reason time lost consciousness. Sid Jurgens rushed to August Kimov. At the commander's the paratroopers had a hole in their left shoulder, but he was alive. While Sid was fiddling with wounded, Nick Werder collected his weapons and called diplomats into the control room. Not passed and a few seconds, and Central The console was already filled with people. Sid Yurgens gave the necessary orders niya, and he headed to Keith’s cabin Brown. In his hand Sid held a wallet with several electronic keys from a set of Brown's personal belongings. B Sid quickly found a small cabin metal suitcase with one of the keys fit. He opened it and sighed with relief - in one of internal sections, behind the velvet under- masonry, lying quantum disk - this there was a personal M-card "Neustra- Shimogo... * * * Negotiations with the artangs took place in a nervous environment. Surrounded squadron of military cruisers Artangs, human "Pole", looked from sides by a forest deer caught in wolf pack ring. Artangi is no longer hid their intentions to get their order M-card agent "Neust- Rashimogo."-... If you refuse, we will take- meme ship stormed, - said in conclusion of what was just said speeches of the arrogant Plud Vroger. - Sid, what are we going to do? - Nick Ver- der turned off the transmitter and turned around to the regiment sitting in the next chair - nick. Everyone looked expectantly at frowning Jurgens, but he for a while he studied the re- glowing reflected orange alien ships with light. Instead of Jurgens asked Nick for an answer again turn on the transmitter. When the connection is established was dizzy, he said with emphasis: - Okay, Plud Vroger... We will give- we give you everything, together with your henchman him... Only one condition: take him to a safe distance for your ships. I emphasize - within reach only your ship should remain, minister As soon as our condition completed - we will send to you a boat with your spy and an M-card. I hope you understood me correctly? Plud Vroger did not answer. Apparently he I was looking for a catch in the person’s proposal. - If you don’t trust us, we can show you a live Keith Brown. He will fly on a boat... What Can I give any more guarantees? - added to silence Sid Jurgens. - I said everything. A if there is an assault, I think it will be from the M-card Only memories will remain... there's nothing to lose and you know it. - Okay, okay... - Plud Vroger wrinkled his pimply forehead. - Give me talk to Brown... Brau's face, blue from bruises,did not appear on the screen - Nick Werder switched the camera to Artang spy - I’m listening to you, Mr. Minister! - the external specialist said politely contacts in pure Artang language. Sid Jurgens noted to himself, that Kate Brown isn't even old anymore It is difficult to pretend to have a slight accent. - Kleit Bloun, I believe in you! Pro- believe all the nuances, my friend... - Okay. I'll do everything in my power strength. - Do we agree to their terms? - I don’t know, decide for yourself - another As far as I understand, we have no way out. - Let them show me the M-card! - Vroger wrinkled his brow again. Sid Jurgens opened his suitcase, standing on his knees and pulled out from there the quantum disk. Kate Brown carefully examined the disk and nodded: - Yes, that's him... Sid put the M-card back in suitcase, slammed it shut and inserted it into slot electronic key. Then he showed everyone the key and hid I put it in the inner pocket of my suit: - Brown will receive this suitcase and the key when it enters the boat. - Okay, we are withdrawing the ships. - As soon as my pilot reports crossing the zone border, I'll let you go Brown,” Sid Jurgens put in. Plud Wroger did not answer and disconnected. * * * Before entering the mini lifeboat, Kate Brown questioningly looked Sid Jurgens in the eye and said... reached out his hand to take the suitcase with M-card. Colonel contemptuously grinned and, without saying a word, you-let go of the suitcase. Brown pro- showed a good reaction - caught pa- giving the suitcase on the fly and pressed it to breasts Sid Jurgens fumbled with his hand inside pocket and pulled it out depths electronic key. Everything is the same silently, looking into his eyes, he gave it away LZraun. Finally getting what you want Brown said: “And don’t even think about jumping.” to the minister's ship - they turn you into dust will turn... Got it? - Where should we go? - vaguely drawled Jurgens. Brown narrowed his eyes. - Well, goodbye. - Goodbye... The airlock doors slammed shut. Jurgens contacted the Central Pul- volume: - Nick, send him. And take me out a picture from me in the docking station lifeboats - I do. When the wall-mounted monitor the tore flashed an image from the sloop- ki, on which Werder started, Yur- General noted with satisfaction that the Artang spy put down his suitcase to the side and was now busy except-- management. He drove carefully boat to the open gates docked the final knot of the Artang ship. Gro- the magnificent multi-faceted ship was preparing - accept a small human lifeboat The boat barely reached the opening chucked section; Keith Brown leaned back in chair and extended his hand to the suitcase. He took the key out of his pocket and inserted it into electronic lock slot. Inside something clicked, Brown's face distorted the moose seemed to pierce his brain with an electric current a terrible guess and in the next moment-There was a powerful explosion. For a fraction of a second before the explosion of the spacecraft hit the bottom of the landing surface platform of Plud Vroger's ship,.. People watching the flight boats with Keith Brown, snuggled to viewing screens - space the monster glowed bluish from within light and like an overheated can. bank, turned inside out. And next passing moment bright shaggy cloud lako burst out into cosmic simple- ry, and whirled in the silent emptiness round dance of huge white flakes, similar to popcorn. In these seconds the ship of Plud Vroger re- began to exist. Like chained dogs, Artang co- escort ships rushed towards the recruiting speed control "Pole". But human The ship has already prepared for hyperjump - experienced pilot Nick Werder fired several volleys from all guns at the frenzied flock and turned on the gi- forward engines. In the last moments before dissolving into the void, people were able to see hundreds of rockets exploding heading towards their ship, but this bee- the swarm was unable to break through through the boundaries of subspace... . * * * Later, already on approach to Leiv, Seal Jurgens showed everyone the M-card "Fearless" and your personal suitcase the danchik in which she had been lying since then moment when he closed it in front of Plud Wroger and Keith Brown. - Well, you’re a magician, - comment- said a smiling Nick Werder. - Howdid they manage to deceive Brown himself? “It’s very simple,” Sid answered, “ Brown did not provide for one thing - I for personal use it was exactly like this the same suitcase as his. And when I put the disc in his suitcase, and in his head wu could not come that in the second already a gift was ready for all the toads in the universe - Noah. As you understand - replace two absolutely identical things - a matter of technical nicknames Sleight of hand. Well, okay, how Is it August? - The condition is satisfactory. live there will be! * * * News of the death of the Artang minister Defense Forces and Expansion Support flew around the entire Universe. Artangi some- We were in shock for a while. But when on the borders of the Central Union Human Colonies began to concentrate armadas of the most modern Artang warships, when everything patrol, merchant and other ships the invaders were driven out of the trawling space routes, when next to the armadas of artangs sailed from non-existence whole hordes of ships tar- ruts when the first mixed squadrons Artangs and Targons settled down close to famous ones in any corner - ke the universe of the most peaceful planets, when the great anarchic planets no longer swarming with pirates, whom as if the wind had blown away from the very grace- new and settled places and, finally, when the first blood was shed near quiet planet Zaonse, in the immediate vicinity proximity to Leiva - then already no one in this world has ever haddoubts - THE HOUR X has struck... * * * - HOUR X has struck... - from this moment A NEW GAME begins: "Starry Heritage-2. On the other side of the Universe" ===================================== [ Unfortunately, the second part of the game I never saw "Star Legacy" light. ] === Cut === [I.ZX] Warm greetings, Slava! [We don’t need the sun - the party is shining for us, we don’t need bread - give us work!]

Get Msg, Arseniy! 16 Aug 99 10:33, Arseniy Astapenko reported by Vyacheslav Mednonogov about {[1/2] "Star Legacy II" Introductory novella.}: VM>> I have long dreamed of this masterpiece by Yuri Matveev (STEP) here VM>> drop it. It's a pity that the game itself never came out - because VM>> something global was planned!! AA> In general, subject I was the first global project, the second would be the same AA> could easily go off with a bang, despite the crisis. I don’t know why Yura froze him even _back then_. One of the main (official) reasons - absence (in Moscow) of an artist of Usmanov’s level (himself Usmanov then went to some PC magazine). IMHO, it also played a role that the profit for ZH1 was divided (in some proportions) between the four project participants. And, although (according to Yu. Matveev) 1900 legal copies were sold (an unbroken record for all domestic zx-toys), for each (apparently) there weren’t as many (as we would like). Moreover (and) then everyone was waiting for the imminent death of Spectrum :) [I.ZX] Warm greetings, Slava! [We don’t need the sun - the party is shining for us, we don’t need bread - give us work!]