"Dune 03 - Whipping Mek (Short Story)" - читать интересную книгу автора (Herbert Brian & Frank)

Noret patted the robot on one of its ribbed metal shoulders. “Many robots

in the Synchronized Worlds have been destroyed because of what we learned

from this unit. Chirox is an invaluable teacher. On the archipelago of Ginaz,

students pit their skills against him. He has proved to be such an advantage and

a repository of information to utilize against our enemy that we mercenaries no

longer refer to him as a thinking machine, but as an ally.”

“A robot as an ally? Serena Butler wouldn’t like to hear that,” Vergyl said

guardedly.

Zon Noret tossed his thick hair behind his head like the mane of a comet.

“Many things are done in this Jihad without Serena Butler knowing. I wouldn’t

be surprised to learn of other meks like this one under our control.” He made a

dismissive gesture. “But since we all have the same goal, the details become

insignificant.”

To Vergyl, some of Noret’s wounds looked only freshly healed. “Shouldn’t

you be recuperating from the battle, instead of fighting even more?”

“A true mercenary never stops fighting.” His eyes narrowed. “I see you’re

an officer yourself.”

Vergyl let out a frustrated sigh. “In the Construction Brigade. It’s not what I

wanted. I wanted to fight, but . . . it’s a long story.”

Noret wiped sweat from his brow. “Your name?”

“Second Decero Tantor.”

With no flicker of recognition at the name, Noret looked at the combat mek

and then at the young officer. “Perhaps we can arrange a little taste of battle for

you anyway.”

“You would let me . . . ?” Vergyl felt his pulse quicken.