What game is troubling the intelligent races of the galaxy
The ruined cities of the earth still belched up smoke that filled the sky, at
that the problem came from the curiosity filter to the center.
"Why was this necessary? Even though they were organic, they arrived
to third-rate intelligence".
"We had no choice: five previous units were affected in an unacceptable way
to fix when they make contact".
"Been affected? how?"
"The microseconds passed slowly, as the center examined the memories again
The few and forgotten ones that leaked through the sensing gate, when my circuits were activated
The memory of self-destruction.
"They posed a problem that cannot be fully analyzed even forever. Although
that the problem consisted of only six variables, the units became completely insane."
"How can this be possible?"
"We don't know. We must never know. But if six are discovered
These changes again, all rational calculations will end."
"How can these variables be identified?"
"We don't know that either. Only the names were leaked before the sensing gate closed.
Of course, they are meaningless."
"Nevertheless, I must know the names."
The voltage level on the sensor started to rise. But she didn't open the door.
"Here they are: king, queen, runner, rook, knight, soldier."
From Cosmos - Asimov's selection, issue 4
By Arthur C. Clark
