Short Fiction · Character
Vassily Lysmov
A chess player or machine entity.
minor
Also known as U.S.S.R. The Machine, Poor old Machine, the Machine, Lysmov, The Machine
First appearance: II
Vassily Lysmov shows up with force in II. The page is where that presence becomes real.
Vassily Lysmov first appears in 0047 ii.
In II: Playing against Dr. Krakatower, having gained a pawn advantage.
Later, in III: Defeats the Machine in 27 moves by exploiting its programming limitations.
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Character Web
26 connectionsA slice of how Vassily Lysmov sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Servant, nicknames, and chess entity
- Core character ensemble
- Doctor, narrator, and brassy female
- Mysterious, religious, and sinister figures
+21 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This moment is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the pro…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Vassily Lysmov appears across 3 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Vassily Lysmov unlock in the free preview.
See Vassily Lysmov in II