<\/a><\/noindex>1.<\/b> \u2014 Earth is on the line.<\/p>\n
\u2014 A civilization of the seventeenth type has been discovered on the planet Sirle. I am sending the data. I have an incomplete crew; a contact specialist is missing. I need clarification on how to proceed.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Act according to the situation. I will try to find a suitable person. However, I cannot promise anything\u2014contact specialists are in short supply.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Understood, Earth. Understood.<\/p>\n
2.<\/b>
The yellow Sirle hung beautifully framed by stars outside the viewport. Portraits of Leonardo da Vinci, Copernicus, Dostoevsky, Mendeleev, Irakli Abazadze, and a smiling Varya were hanging between the viewports. <\/p>\n
Ronan had hung Varya's portrait for a laugh, and of course, for beauty. The girl, captured against the backdrop of the blue sky, smiled\u2014just the way only Varya can.<\/p>\n
\u2014 So, did you get through to Earth? \u2013 she asked from her chair.<\/p>\n
The chairs in the conference room had wheels. During flights, they were secured, but at other times, when artificial gravity was working, you could roll around. Space pilots love to roll in wheeled chairs\u2014that was a tradition inherited from their ancestors.<\/p>\n
Ronan plopped down in his seat and stretched out his legs.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I got through. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Did they advise you to act according to the situation? \u2013 Varya sniffed.<\/p>\n
Ronan nodded. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Why do I have to pull everything out of you with pliers?! Did they promise to send someone?<\/p>\n
\u2014 In any case, he will be delayed.<\/p>\n
\u2014 In other words, you decided to make contact independently?<\/p>\n
\u2014 What else can I do? \u2013 Ronan shrugged, fully aware that he had no choice. \u2014 A civilization of the seventeenth type, and there are no contraindications. We can't just leave the explored sector empty-handed, can we?! Let's conduct the autopsy ourselves.<\/p>\n
The girl pushed off with her feet and rolled a little closer to Ronan. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Roma, you don\u2019t have clearance. You\u2019re a pilot.<\/p>\n
\u2014 But I have enough experience. I participated as a second person in interviews twice. No admission is required for second persons. Don't worry, Varya, everything will go smoothly, we will make contact. Then we will invite the Sirlyans on board and have a discussion. It's Lebedinsky's method, nothing complicated. Essentially, it all comes down to reciting standard phrases and demonstrating training videos.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Will you take the role of the second person?<\/p>\n
Roman smiled and tried to look a bit duller.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Who should be the second person? Who to take? Considering there are only two of us on the starship, I guess I have to take you as my second. I recommend you familiarize yourself with some specialized literature, my second. But first, we need to conduct a psychological and physiological compatibility test.<\/p>\n
He grabbed Varya's chair by the armrest and pulled it towards him.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Well, I knew it, another test! \u2013 the girl exclaimed. \u2013 Why did I even agree to fly to space with you?!<\/p>\n
She didn't think about resisting. <\/p>\n
3.<\/b>
Roman once again realized: intelligent life, with all its psychological diversity, is confined within strict anthropomorphic bounds. There were, and could be, no exceptions to this rule.<\/p>\n
Naturally, he was a bit nervous. However, it was a familiar situation. The key here is the first phrase. For this reason, Roman did not activate the translator: if the Sirlyans decided to interject a word, he still wouldn't understand.<\/p>\n
He led the delegation to the meeting room, where Varya was waiting, and made it clear: the interview would take place here. He took a position opposite and exhaled deeply. He clicked on the translator and quickly pronounced:<\/p>\n
\u2014 The people of Earth, the oldest and strongest in the galaxy, welcome the friendly people of Sirlya aboard the starship 'Humanism'.<\/p>\n
The task was half done; now all that remained was to wait for a response.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes, \u2014 the man said.<\/p>\n
The girl unexpectedly placed her palm on the top of her companion's head.<\/p>\n
Understanding is possible thanks to earthly technologies of mental translation, Roman articulated the second phrase according to Lebedinsky\u2019s method. On Sirle, such technologies are absent, so you cannot communicate with other space peoples by yourself.<\/p>\n
The girl suddenly squealed:<\/p>\n
\u2014 What! Why???<\/p>\n
And pointed at Var's portrait. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Sirleans cannot stand the color blue, \u2014 the man explained. \u2014 Sirleans love the color yellow, especially the females.<\/p>\n
Roman jumped to the wall and turned the portrait around.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Is it better now?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Now my female is fine, \u2014 the sirlean confirmed.<\/p>\n
The girl laughed, a bit too loudly, making it sound silly. But it was actually not so bad because the problem turned out to be not worth a penny.<\/p>\n
\u2014 My name is Roman. And my\u2026 female's name is Varya.<\/p>\n
Varya threw a playful glance at the commander but remained silent.<\/p>\n
\u2014 My name is Gril. And my female's name is Rila, \u2014 the sirlean said.<\/p>\n
Everyone sat down in their chairs, except for Rila, who stood behind Gril, arms crossed behind her back.<\/p>\n
Roman began the autotranslation:<\/p>\n
\u2014 We invited the most distinguished representatives of Sirle to the spaceship \"Humanism\" for communication. And we are glad that the distinguished representatives have appeared. Both earthlings and sirleans are biological beings. Each biological being is a separate material individual with its own psychology. Misunderstandings and contradictions can occur between biological beings, up to the emergence of conflict situations.<\/p>\n
When Roman mentioned separate material individuals, the sirlean began examining his hands with surprise. At that moment, the girl stepped aside to examine other portraits hanging between the windows. <\/p>\n
When Roman mentioned possible misunderstandings and contradictions, the sirlean said with displeasure:<\/p>\n
\u2014 Rila, what are you doing?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Looking at pictures, \u2014 the girl replied.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Stop immediately.<\/p>\n
Rila had to return to her place and put her hand on Gril's head. <\/p>\n
Lebedinsky\u2019s method worked flawlessly.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Curiosity, like conflict, is characteristic of all biological beings, \u2014 Roman continued. \u2014 However, the contradictions that arise between biological beings must be overcome. To better understand each other, we will share our accumulated unique knowledge \u2013 to the extent that you are capable of perceiving it. You will learn a lot about the universe, including your planet. We have been observing Sirlya for generations. <\/p>\n
\u2014 The Sirlyans were unaware of your existence, \u2014 interjected Gril.<\/p>\n
\u2014 We have unique technologies. At first, we didn't want to be discovered. But when we decided that the Sirlyan people were ready for contact, we activated visibility mode. The rest you already know. We extended an invitation to the most deserving of the Sirlyans to visit the starship, and you came here. <\/p>\n
Rila laughed again, this time for no apparent reason.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why is she laughing?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Rila is playful, \u2014 explained Gril.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Females are the most unstable of biological beings, \u2014 Roman remarked offhandedly.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Females need to restrain themselves, especially in the presence of representatives from other space civilizations, \u2014 added the clever Varya.<\/p>\n
The girlish laughter ceased. No, Lebedinsky's methodology was definitely working. However, for the first time, it was enough \u2013 time to wrap it up. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Will you convey to your people what you heard here? <\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes.<\/p>\n
Rila placed her second palm on Gril's head. It seemed she placed her hand on her man's head with every 'yes.' An interesting local custom. I wonder what will happen if a Sirlyan has to answer 'no'?<\/p>\n
\u2014 The volume of knowledge that will be provided to you is so vast that several meetings will be required. Therefore, our conversations need to be made a regular occurrence. I propose we meet once during the Sirlyan's orbit around the star.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I will come, \u2014 promised Gril.<\/p>\n
Roman summarized:<\/p>\n
\u2014 We will transport you here for discussions. And now let\u2019s watch a short informational video about the people of Earth. We know everything about Sirlya, while you know nothing about our planet. This knowledge gap needs to be filled.<\/p>\n
4.<\/b>
The narrator read with an evocative voice:<\/p>\n
\"Dear extraterrestrial! The cradle of intelligent life in the vast expanses of the cosmos is Earth. Here, civilization emerged much earlier than on other planets. While other planets were yet to be formed, saber-toothed tigers roamed the Earth. When the first primitive fauna appeared on other planets, trams powered by electricity were already operating on Earth. When the wheel was being invented on other planets, Earthlings were traversing the galaxy in comfortable starships. <\/p>\n
Recognizing their ancient superiority, the inhabitants of Earth took upon themselves the responsibility for the development of intelligent life in the galaxy. Our scientists actively intervene in the natural course of evolution, adjusting and coordinating biological processes on life-fertilized planets. One could say that Earthlings have nurtured most of the galactic peoples with their own hands. <\/p>\n
We do not make contact with all our fellow intelligent beings, but when it occurs, the chosen civilization receives invaluable assistance for further intellectual and technological development. The amount of knowledge provided is considered separately in each case.\"<\/i><\/p>\n
The text being read was illustrated with documentary footage, generously enriched with animation. In some cases, they were replaced by short staged scenes.<\/p>\n
Here's the beginning of beginnings \u2013 a bleak, lifeless galaxy. On one of the planets, a bright dot begins to blink, marking the emergence of life. The dot approaches at terrifying speed and turns out to be a man and a woman, who are tightly holding hands. And so, the brave Earthlings are already gazing at the starry sky\u2026 The brave Earthlings are riding a tram\u2026 The brave Earthlings are stepping onto a starship\u2026 The starship with Earthlings on board soars upward but finds no signs of life in the endless cosmos. No, life is indeed discovered! Here and there, other bright dots light up, indicating the emergence of extraterrestrial life. <\/p>\n
To observe the vital hotspots from Earth, numerous starships are dispatched. From these ships circling on planetary orbits, Earth\u2019s scientists conduct scientific observations. If necessary, the scientists descend to the surface and nurture the protoplasm with a nutrient broth. <\/p>\n
Life gradually evolves \u2013 in reality, painfully slow, but in the informational video, it happens in just a few seconds. <\/p>\n
After millions of years, the long-awaited contact with intelligent brethren occurs. With tears in their eyes, the locals thank Earthlings for the nutrient broth and valuable informational support.<\/p>\n
5.<\/b>
\u2014 I hear you, Earth. 'Humanism' is on the line.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I\u2019ve found you a specialist. Yuri Chudinov. He is authorized to work with alien civilizations up to the thirty-first level. He has been sent by transport capsule. Expect him within a day.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Understood, Earth. Thank you very much. The primary contact with civilization of the seventeenth type was successful.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Excuse me, 'Humanism', I have a call on another line. End of transmission.<\/p>\n
6.<\/b>
\u2014 For a civilization of the seventeenth type, the Syrlans are quite primitive. <\/p>\n
\u2014 They're a bit simple and not very talkative. And that girl, who constantly laughs for no reason... <\/p>\n
\u2014 Not bad. <\/p>\n
Varya smirked.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Cute, is that why you made a mistake? <\/p>\n
\u2014 What mistake?<\/p>\n
\u2014 You used the word 'preference'. You recommended reading special literature on contacts with civilizations of the seventeenth type, so I did read it. Allowing alternative thinking is not recommended, and the term 'preference' permits alternative thinking. <\/p>\n
Roman felt a slight chill splash into his chest. Varya was right: using the term 'preference' should not have been done.<\/p>\n
\u2014 This term is not on the banned list, \u2014 he said, searching for justification while feeling a bit ashamed. \u2014 In any case, it\u2019s not critical. Thank you for the hint, number two.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You're welcome, number one. <\/p>\n
Wanting to smooth over the blunder, Roman tried to hug the girl. But the stubborn Varya stepped back.<\/p>\n
\u2014 No, not now! <\/p>\n
\u2014 Why? \u2014 he asked with a purely male grievance.<\/p>\n
\u2014 The transport capsule will attach soon.<\/p>\n
And once again, Varya was right. She always turned out to be right in situations of ambiguous choice\u2014that was an ingrained trait of her nature.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes, exactly. They acted promptly for the bureaucrats from the Ministry of Space. <\/p>\n
\u2014 By the way, what is our new contact person\u2019s name? <\/p>\n
\u2014 Yuri. <\/p>\n
\u2014 I read that in the event of contact, operational command on the spacecraft passes to the contact person. <\/p>\n
At least there was something she didn\u2019t know! But she read it nonetheless.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Correct, \u2014 Roman nodded. \u2014 The contact person knows better what is allowed and what is not during contact with unstudied civilizations. Alien psychology is a delicate matter, easily torn. However, the transfer of operational command pertains only to controlling the crew's behavior and direct contact. Management of the spacecraft remains with the pilot.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Are you upset?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Upset about what? \u2014 Roman was surprised.<\/p>\n
\u2014 That you'll lose your dictatorial powers?<\/p>\n
\u2014 This is temporary, and I will only partially lose my powers.<\/p>\n
They remained silent, touching each other with their fingers.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Shall we go out to meet them? <\/p>\n
\u2014 To hell with it, \u2014 Roman suddenly got angry for some reason. \u2014 I hope they don\u2019t get lost. All the 'Humanisms' are built according to a standard design. <\/p>\n
\u2014 What shall we do while we wait? Finish our game?<\/p>\n
The pilot allowed himself a condescending smile.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Do you hope to corner me in the endgame?<\/p>\n
\u2014 I play just as well as you do.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Then make your move.<\/p>\n
Roman focused, and an unfinished position emerged in his memory. He and Varya often played three-dimensional chess. He felt confident here, teasing his friend lightly. She pretended to be angry in response; in the end, everything would end with the usual caresses.<\/p>\n
Now, recalling the remaining position from memory, Varya closed her eyes and tilted her chin upwards. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Rook h9-a9-yota-12, \u2014 she made her next move after a moment.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Pawn a8-a9-epsilon-4.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Bishop b5-c6-sigma-1.<\/p>\n
It was not easy to corner Roman in the endgame; after all, he was the pilot of the spacecraft.<\/p>\n
7.<\/b>
\u2014 Hello, Roman. Hello, Varvara. I see you\u2019re enjoying some three-dimensional chess?! That's commendable. <\/p>\n
He probably heard it on entry. Why didn\u2019t they meet him, didn\u2019t ask \u2014 it means formalities weren't a priority for him. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Nice to meet you.<\/p>\n
Varya nodded. Roman shook hands and reported:<\/p>\n
\u2014 Hello, Yuri. I\u2019m handing over operational command of the starship \"Humanism\" to you. <\/p>\n
\u2014 I accept operational command. <\/p>\n
\u2014 How was your trip? <\/p>\n
\u2014 Thank you, Roman, I arrived safely. Unexpected appointment. They informed me at the crack of dawn \u2013 had to pack in a hurry. <\/p>\n
\u2014 The contact\u2019s graduate got sent to the hospital three hours before launch. We left with a shortage\u2026 <\/p>\n
\u2014 And, as luck would have it, we discovered a seventeenth-type civilization. <\/p>\n
\u2014 No one expected it, \u2014 Roman muttered, as if he were to blame. \u2014 Finding an unknown civilization in this star sector is quite incredible.<\/p>\n
Yuri settled into the chair, testing the wheels. The wheels were in order.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I sincerely congratulate you. I was informed about an unforeseen discovery, and I couldn\u2019t turn it down. Nevertheless, I\u2019m glad to meet you. You can call it a premonition, but we will get along. A splendid place, your \"Humanism\". And the seventeenth-type civilization is splendid \u2013 I haven\u2019t worked with such before.<\/p>\n
Roman and Varya exchanged glances.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You\u2019ve never worked with seventeenth-type civilizations? <\/p>\n
\u2014 You ask if I have worked with seventeenth-type civilizations, Roman. The very phrasing of your question implies doubt that a person without experience working with such civilizations can manage to work with them. However, I have clearance to work with all extraterrestrial civilizations up to and including the thirty-first level. Do you, Roman, have clearance to work with thirty-first level civilizations?<\/p>\n
\u2014 No. <\/p>\n
\u2014 At the same time, \u2014 the newcomer continued assertively, \u2014 I worked with civilizations of the tenth and twenty-eighth types. Do you think that's much easier than working with a seventeenth-type civilization?<\/p>\n
\u2014 I don\u2019t think so.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I hope I answered your question. Now let's move on to our joint official duties. What time is the contact scheduled for?<\/p>\n
\u2014 I apologize, but the contact has already occurred.<\/p>\n
Yuri\u2019s face slightly elongated and darkened.<\/p>\n
\u2014 In what sense did the contact take place? \u2013 he said firmly and decisively. \u2014 I gathered myself and launched in the transport capsule just a few minutes after the message. And the contact happened?<\/p>\n
Roman confirmed.<\/p>\n
\u2014 When?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Ten hours ago.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Who ordered the contact to be made? <\/p>\n
\u2014 I, as the commander of the spaceship.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why didn't you wait for a specialist with clearance?<\/p>\n
It was beginning to feel like an interrogation in the boss's office \u2013 though, it seems, that\u2019s exactly what it was. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Yuri, I suspect you were searched for too long, \u2014 Varja interjected.<\/p>\n
Roman reported loudly, as in training:<\/p>\n
\u2014 According to the Extraterrestrial Contact Instructions, clause 238, upon detection of a civilization of the seventeenth type, euthanasia must be initiated as quickly as possible. If euthanasia is not initiated within twenty-four hours from the moment of detection, one must immediately leave the contact site and not return. Twenty-four hours have now passed. I couldn't allow the recently surveyed star sector to become unvisitable.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Commendable. However, you don\u2019t have clearance!<\/p>\n
\u2014 Clause 238 prevails over clause 411, which establishes the rules for actions in outer space. No problems were recorded during the contact; everything went smoothly. As a result of my actions, the star sector is open for visits.<\/p>\n
Yuri couldn't find a response. A slight darkness crossed his face, but his jaw moved back into his skull.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Varvara, the success of contact does not negate work discipline\u2026 Fine, Roman. Just not 'open for visits', but 'will soon be open for visits'. And in other respects \u2013 to the point\u2026 However, I ask you to act strictly according to my directives from now on.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Of course.<\/p>\n
Well, no one will violate subordination; there\u2019s no need for that.<\/p>\n
\u2014 When is the next meeting scheduled? <\/p>\n
\u2014 Tomorrow at eleven. <\/p>\n
Here, Yuri noticed a portrait turned to its back.<\/p>\n
\u2014 What is that?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Varja's portrait, \u2014 Roman explained. \u2013 But the Sirlians asked us to remove it. They are annoyed by the celestial background. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Good. The portrait of the crew member is commendable. The main thing is to remember the responsibility placed upon us. The opening of a new civilization is a powerful factor influencing galactic politics. I hope you understand this. If you don't, refresh your memory about the history of Irakli Abazadze...<\/p>\n
Yuri pointed to the portrait of Abazadze \u2013 the only surviving photograph of him. The famous young man was photographed against the backdrop of a log wall and was holding a shovel. <\/p>\n
\u2014 The merits of Irakli Abazadze are well-known.<\/p>\n
\u2014 It doesn\u2019t matter. Rewatch the video from the 'Videopedia.' It\u2019s useful to remember what happens during improper interactions with type seventeen civilizations.<\/p>\n
Varya intervened:<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yuri, but repeating that situation is impossible.<\/p>\n
But before her stood the wise, patient, and all-knowing commander. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Understand this, Roman. Understand this, Varvara. From the moment I took operational command of 'Humanism,' you have no right to make mistakes. Competence, iron discipline, and a common goal \u2013 after all, we are dealing with alien intelligence. So, tomorrow at eleven. Right now, I need to go to my cabin to rest; the flight was not easy. Roman and Varvara, we are one team with a common goal \u2013 euthanasia.<\/p>\n
Grabbing his travel bag, the newcomer set out to find an available cabin.<\/p>\n
8.<\/b>
At the last moment, Yuri freed Varya from participating in the interview, so there were two Earthlings.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes, \u2014 agreed the Sirlyan.<\/p>\n
Rila immediately placed her palm on his head.<\/p>\n
\u2014 This is Gril, and this is his female, Rila.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes.<\/p>\n
Rila placed her second palm on her partner's head.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Now we will watch a new video \u2013 about how life on your planet began. Then, if there are questions, Yuri will answer them.<\/p>\n
Roman pressed the projector's button, but to his surprise, he heard: <\/p>\n
\u2014 No need. I will personally tell our Sirlyan friends how life began on Sirle.<\/p>\n
A familiar chill crept into his chest.<\/p>\n
\u2014 What?<\/p>\n
\u2014 The screen won't be necessary.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Alright, Yuri\u2026 If you think it's necessary\u2026 \u2014 muttered Roman, not understanding why the contactee felt the need to change the standard scenario.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Siral came into being long ago, from gravitational clumps, \u2014 Yuri began. \u2014 The gravitational clumps attracted each other and formed your planet.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Did you see that? \u2013 Grill asked quickly.<\/p>\n
\u2014 No, the Earthlings came to Siral later.<\/p>\n
\u2014 How do you know this?<\/p>\n
Roman mechanically noted: during the first interview, the Siralian didn't allow himself to ask twice. A negative trend.<\/p>\n
\u2014 We drew conclusions by analogy. We are the oldest civilization, visiting the most remote corners of the universe. We can observe similar metamorphoses based on many planets, so the origin of Siral is beyond doubt. <\/p>\n
By the way, the term 'doubt' was on the list of prohibited terms when contacting type seventeen civilizations. The pilot involuntarily scrutinized Grill's features, but noticed no visible changes. The Siralian, with his back straight as a stick, remained in his seat. His facial features remained unchanged.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Are doubts even possible? \u2014 Grill asked evenly.<\/p>\n
It seemed Yuri realized he had misspoken, as he delivered a rather clumsy but effective phrase:<\/p>\n
\u2014 Our civilization is powerful, so our logical conclusions are indisputable and always confirmed by practice.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Yes. <\/p>\n
Rila's two hands rested on the top of Grill's head: there was nothing more to place there.<\/p>\n
\u2018Will she let go?\u2019 \u2014 a thought flashed.<\/p>\n
No, she did not let go. The girl switched her hands, satisfied with that.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Where was I? So, when the gravitational clumps attracted each other\u2026 <\/p>\n
\u2014 Why?<\/p>\n
\u2014 What do you mean by why? <\/p>\n
\u2014 Why did they attract each other?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why are you asking about this?<\/p>\n
Roman realized with horror that the interview was heading in a different direction than planned by Lebedinsky's methodology. The dangerous chill in his chest had not disappeared, but seemed to have settled there forever.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I want to know the answer, \u2014 the Siralian insisted.<\/p>\n
\u2014 In that case, I will answer. The gravitational clumps attracted each other due to a powerful flare on your star. The prominence melted the edges of the gravitational clumps, causing them to merge.<\/p>\n
A ringing girl's laugh rang out.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why are you laughing? \u2013 Yuri blurted. \u2014 Am I saying something funny?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Rila is playful; she often laughs, \u2014 Roman explained.<\/p>\n
\u2014 She will stop now, \u2014 Grill said sternly.<\/p>\n
The laughter ceased as if it had been cut off.<\/p>\n
The blush had not faded from Yuri's cheeks when he continued:<\/p>\n
\u2014 During that historical period, Sirle was a coalesced gravitational blob, floating in space. It would have remained that way if chemical compounds had not begun to condense on its surface. The chemical compounds bonded and broke apart, forming organisms that were initially elemental.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why elemental?<\/p>\n
Curiosity finally awakened in the sirleans. As long as it didn't get out of control, as long as it didn't!<\/p>\n
\u2014 Great question, Gril, right on target! These organisms were considered elemental because they each had one distinguishing property. However, they could exist in symbiosis with other elemental organisms, which was mutually beneficial. For instance, there was an elemental organism that had the function of reducing size: conditionally, it was a muscular organism. On the other hand, there was an organism with protective properties: an epithelial organism. The first organism was muscles. The second organism was skin. After some unsuccessful attempts, the skin enveloped the muscles, and this structure turned out to be viable. The skin protected the muscles from the external environment, and the muscles allowed the skin to contract, making it possible to move through space. <\/p>\n
Rila laughed \u2013 even louder than last time.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Females, \u2014 Gril explained in justification. \u2014 Unstable biological entities. <\/p>\n
The laughter stopped.<\/p>\n
\u2014 It's nothing serious, I continue. So, complex biological organisms emerged. And this is no joke.<\/p>\n
Hearing the word 'joke,' Roman flinched, opened his mouth, but with an effort of will forced himself to close it.<\/p>\n
\u2014 A joke? \u2013 Gril said, as if perplexed.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Maybe we should wrap it up for today, Yuri? I think the guests are tired.<\/p>\n
Roman said this in the most even and friendly tone he could manage. But Yuri didn't understand, remaining active and verbose.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Gril, are you tired? \u2013 he addressed the sirlean.<\/p>\n
\u2014 No.<\/p>\n
Finally, the sirlyanin said 'no.' Despite the danger of the situation, Roman watched curiously as Rila removed one of her palms from Grila's head. So, these are the customs of Sirlya. If it's 'yes,' a palm is placed; if 'no,' it's taken away.<\/p>\n
\u2014 And you, Rila?<\/p>\n
\u2014 No. <\/p>\n
She laughed but quickly fell silent.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You see, Roman, your assumption is incorrect, \u2014 the contactor summarized, \u2014 Let me finish the overview I started, especially since we are so close to concluding. Thus, the evolution of biological beings on Sirlya has reached a new level. Many elementary organisms responsible for sight, touch, smell, digestion, and excretion merged into unified complex organisms, becoming parts of them.<\/p>\n
\u2014 We are born whole! \u2014 Gril protested.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Of course! Shortly after, chemical compounds appeared on Sirlya containing the complete composition of complex organisms. Organisms began to reproduce by gradually increasing biological mass according to patterns they had. Just believe me.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Is it possible not to believe someone?<\/p>\n
Roman sat, turning his face to the porthole. He was shaking with outrage and helplessness.<\/p>\n
9.<\/b>
\u2014 Yuri, why did you deviate from the typical scenario?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why do you ask?<\/p>\n
This person had a silly manner of answering a question with a question, redirecting it back to the interlocutor.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why don't you just answer the question?! \u2014 Roman couldn't hold back. \u2014 Because this topic concerns me, damn it!<\/p>\n
\u2014 Do you want to talk informally?<\/p>\n
Yuri looked confident\u2014perhaps overly so. <\/p>\n
\u2014 As you wish.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Excellent, let's talk informally. To start, I did not deviate from what you call the typical scenario. There is no typical scenario; there is Lebedinsky's methodology. I suspect that's what you mistakenly consider typical. However, I used the latest methodology\u2014Shvartsman's\u2014which also complies with the Instruction on extraterrestrial contacts. I hope my answer satisfies you?<\/p>\n
\u2014 Not completely, \u2014 Roman stammered.<\/p>\n
\u2014 What exactly did not satisfy you?<\/p>\n
\u2014 I am not familiar with the Schwartman method...<\/p>\n
\u2014 I thought as much.<\/p>\n
I just needed you to pat me on the shoulder. <\/p>\n
\u2014 ...At the same time, I am acquainted with Type Seventeen civilizations, \u2014 Roman continued. \u2014 This is my third contact with such civilizations, so I know a bit about how to communicate with them. Well, I understand the general principles. From what I can tell, you made several mistakes during the conversation. These are serious mistakes that cannot be justified by referring to any methods, whether Lebedinsky's, Schwartman's, or anyone else's. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Right, right... \u2013 Yuri nodded throughout the monologue, just like a metronome.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You hinted to the Sirlyans about alternative thinking several times. It is absolutely not recommended to do this when talking to Type Seventeen civilizations. Even hints are unacceptable.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You are mistaken, Roman. During the conversation, I did not hint at alternative thinking.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You used terms like 'faith', 'joke', 'doubt'.<\/p>\n
\u2014 These phrases do not hint at alternative thinking.<\/p>\n
\u2014 They hint quite a bit. If there is 'you can believe us', then there exists 'you don't have to believe us'. That is alternative thinking \u2013 an assumption of deliberate deceit. Many of these terms are prohibited in communication with Type Seventeen civilizations.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Why should Sirlyans accept the second option and not the first? \u2014 Yuri unexpectedly asked.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because they have a choice. <\/p>\n
\u2014 Do you notice any signs that our friends, the Sirlyans, accepted the second option?<\/p>\n
Roman was aware that Yuri was using sophistic techniques, but he could not shift the course of the conversation.<\/p>\n
\u2014 You talk about it so easily... Well... No, I don\u2019t notice anything like that, \u2014 he was forced to admit.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I don't notice it either. Therefore, the Sirlyans have settled on the first option. I acted correctly.<\/p>\n
\u2014 But you repeated such phrases, in various formulations, several times! We should have filmed a training video!<\/p>\n
\u2014 Are you saying that I know nothing about my profession? \u2014 Yuri squinted.<\/p>\n
\u2014 No, but\u2026<\/p>\n
\u2014 But you think so. Based on your meager amateur experience.<\/p>\n
\u2014 I don\u2019t think so, \u2014 Roman blurted out instinctively, though such thoughts had crossed his mind. <\/p>\n
Let's figure out why you initiated this conversation. Is it not because you lost your command authority with my arrival?<\/p>\n
You only have operational authority, Yuri. You can't pilot the starship and you will never learn. Your temporary command status is a formality required by the space charter.<\/p>\n
You've just answered the question about the reason for the conversation, the contact person summarized. Your excess emotionality gave you away. You're worried that during the euthanasia procedure, operational control has transferred to me. You would have preferred to handle it yourself, even though you don't possess the required clearance.<\/p>\n
But you've never worked with civilizations of the seventeenth type!<\/p>\n
Yet I've worked with many others. It's fine, Roman \u2014 you have no reason to worry at all. I am in control of the situation; soon all the procedures will be completed, after which I will leave the 'Humanism' and go home to Venus.<\/p>\n
He calmed Roman down like a small child. <\/p>\n
Yuri, you don't joke around with civilizations of the seventeenth type! Roman said as detached as possible. You mentioned Abazadze yourself. It also started small.<\/p>\n
By the way, have you reviewed the video about Abazadze's feat?<\/p>\n
\u2014 No.<\/p>\n
Take another look. And familiarize yourself with Schwartzman's methodology; we need to work according to this methodology. And this, unlike the previous one, is an official requirement. Now excuse me, I need to prepare a report on the second interview. <\/p>\n
Yuri left. Roman leaned against the cold glass of the porthole in solitude. Before him hung the yellow Sirle \u2014 a planet inhabited by a civilization of the seventeenth type.habr.com<\/a><\/p>","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"excerpt":{"rendered":"\/* \u0427\u0438\u0442\u0430\u0442\u0435\u043b\u044f\u043c \u0445\u0430\u0431\u0430 \u00ab\u041d\u0430\u0443\u0447\u043d\u0430\u044f \u0444\u0430\u043d\u0442\u0430\u0441\u0442\u0438\u043a\u0430\u00bb \u043f\u0440\u0435\u0434\u043b\u0430\u0433\u0430\u0435\u0442\u0441\u044f \u043d\u0435\u0431\u043e\u043b\u044c\u0448\u0430\u044f \u0444\u0430\u043d\u0442\u0430\u0441\u0442\u0438\u0447\u0435\u0441\u043a\u0430\u044f \u043f\u043e\u0432\u0435\u0441\u0442\u044c. \u041f\u043e\u0432\u0435\u0441\u0442\u044c \u0440\u0430\u0437\u0431\u0438\u0442\u0430 \u043d\u0430 2 \u0447\u0430\u0441\u0442\u0438, \u043f\u043e\u0434 \u043a\u0430\u0442\u043e\u043c \u043d\u0430\u0445\u043e\u0434\u0438\u0442\u0441\u044f \u043f\u0435\u0440\u0432\u0430\u044f. \u0412\u0442\u043e\u0440\u0430\u044f \u0447\u0430\u0441\u0442\u044c \u0437\u0430\u043b\u0438\u0442\u0430 \u0438 \u0433\u043e\u0442\u043e\u0432\u0430 \u043a \u0443\u043f\u043e\u0442\u0440\u0435\u0431\u043b\u0435\u043d\u0438\u044e. \u0411\u0443\u0434\u0435\u0442 \u043e\u043f\u0443\u0431\u043b\u0438\u043a\u043e\u0432\u0430\u043d\u0430 \u0447\u0435\u0440\u0435\u0437 \u0442\u0440\u043e\u0435 \u0441\u0443\u0442\u043e\u043a \u2014 \u0432 \u0442\u043e\u043c \u0441\u043b\u0443\u0447\u0430\u0435, \u0435\u0441\u043b\u0438 \u043f\u0435\u0440\u0432\u0430\u044f \u0447\u0430\u0441\u0442\u044c \u043d\u0435 \u0432\u044b\u0439\u0434\u0435\u0442 \u0432 \u043c\u0438\u043d\u0443\u0441. *\/ 1. \u2014 \u00ab\u0413\u0443\u043c\u0430\u043d\u0438\u0437\u043c\u00bb \u0432\u044b\u0437\u044b\u0432\u0430\u0435\u0442 \u0417\u0435\u043c\u043b\u044e. \u00ab\u0413\u0443\u043c\u0430\u043d\u0438\u0437\u043c\u00bb \u0432\u044b\u0437\u044b\u0432\u0430\u0435\u0442 \u0417\u0435\u043c\u043b\u044e. \u2014 \u0417\u0435\u043c\u043b\u044f \u043d\u0430 \u043f\u0440\u043e\u0432\u043e\u0434\u0435. \u2014 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"author":1,"featured_media":29427,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[702],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-39207","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t
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