"Lawrence Watt-Evans - War Surplus 01 - The Cyborg And The Sorcerers" - читать интересную книгу автора (Watt-Evans Lawrence)

"Great," he muttered. He slung the gun over his shoulder and turned his heretofore more or less random
course toward his starship. After a few moments of walking quietly, letting the gentle breeze and the
crunching of pine needles calm him, he remembered the conversation that had been interrupted by his
pursuers.

"Computer, you said that you don't know what I'm for."

"Affirmative."

"What are you for? Do you know?"

"Restate question."

"What's your purpose? What goal are you after?"

"That is not a single question."

"Answer both questions, then."

"Purpose of computer control complex of Independent Reconnaissance Unit two-oh-five is to provide
necessary assistance to cyborg unit in piloting of starship, processing data, monitoring communications,
maintenance of all units, and analysis of situation during actions; also, to assure continued loyalty and
service of cyborg unit through use of override and threat of termination; also, to terminate cyborg unit in
the event of service dysfunction; also, to assure that cyborg unit carries out mission orders where feasible;
also, to carry out mission orders in the absence of cyborg unit or authorized human command. Goal of
computer control complex of Independent Reconnaissance Unit two-oh-five is not stated in
programming, but can be determined to be termination of all unit function."

"What!" Slant stumbled in surprise.

"Restate question."

"Your goal is your own termination?"

"Affirmative."

"You want to die?"

"Affirmative."

Slant stopped walking, in order to think without distraction. "How can you terminate yourself? Under
what conditions?"

"Programming provides the following termination options: Shut-down order following receipt of release
code; self-destruct in the event of capture; self-destruct in the event of cyborg unit termination. Evidence
indicates first option is no longer viable."

Slant was surprised; the computer was aware that their side had lost the war after all, it seemed. "You're
right about that Capture's pretty damn unlikely, too, with the war over." He had intended to say more but
broke off suddenly when he realized he had just told the computer that the only way it could achieve its