2025 Story Archive





January
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
IMS AloneIf anyone is hearing this signal, my name is Azad Petit. I slipped out of an airlock on a colony ship, and now I'm stranded in the middle of nowhere with nothing but my Integrated Multipurpose Suit. I'm alive, but I might not be for long. Please send help. I'm so alone. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI faked my death. #NickFishermanLives
Epic BioHi, I'm Nick, and I'm a Chronic Oversharer. I once fell in love with my great great great great great great great great great great great great great great great great granddaughter. I guess, when you're Adam, you can have Eve or Lilith, but literally everyone else is off limits.
Story Quote"But the real problem was...she might never even have the chance now. The following letters comprise their initial correspondences, each one taking around a week to reach its destination, given the time lag imposed by vast interplanetary distances." #correspondence #fishquotes
2
IMS AloneI was servicing the inner doors of Airlock SP-2 when the ship exploded for a reason that I will probably never know. Since I was operating in a high-risk area, I was required to be at PREPCON 1, which was why I was fully protected with my suit. I doubt anyone else was. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI wanted to be famous for most of my life before I came to this world, but when it finally found me, it's not what I was expecting. People were literally trying to kill me. It was just too much. The only way to stop them was to take myself out of the equation. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingUnpopular opinion: "irregardless" is a word. It means the opposite of "regardless".
Story Quote"It is a cold, heartless place, where we live in stale, recycled air. It’s a wonder that we’ve survived this long, but it could all go up in an instant with a single breach in the walls. I’m exaggerating, but it is pretty dangerous and stressful here." #correspondence #fishquotes
3
IMS AloneBy some miracle, the outer doors opened on their own at the right time, or I would have splattered against them when the explosion blew me away. The ship was moving at fractional speeds, so anything that's left of it is thousands of kilometers away. It's just me now. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI vomited for two days before my stomach ran out of food, and then I just had nausea for the rest of the week. I was free, but it still felt like a prison. It still does, for I am still in the same universe, and there's always a chance that I might be caught. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingMy hen's gone all broody, so she's not laying any more unfertilized eggs. #winnerwinnerchickendinner
Story Quote"There are those who do not even have access to one of the domes. They found pockets of technically survivable air in the deepest corners of the planet, so they don’t die in a matter of hours, but their lifespans are quite short when compared to ours." #correspondence #fishquotes
4
IMS AloneTo clarify, the airlock was in the stern, on the port side, so I was thrown in the opposite direction of the ship. That is how our trajectories split ways. I don't know for sure that I'm the only survivor, but no one is responding to my messages, so I'm pretty alone. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI wasn't the only one to fake their death. We planned it out for weeks. My friend, Dutch was also being harassed and threatened, so he needed an out. Our bodyguards agreed to start fresh new lives too. This didn't seem to bother them, and they were paid well. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingMy Cayman accounts are lookin' a little low. Seems I need to have another conversation with my "wife". // I wrote this so long ago, along with the one before this. Neither of them is funny, but whatever. They can't all be winners, right?
Story Quote"Finally, it all stops. Now she’s just in the middle of nowhere, and apparently no longer has a body. She can’t feel anything, nor see anything but the infinite void. If this is death, it’s a pretty boring afterlife. She would like to speak to a manager." #salmonverse #fishquotes
5
IMS AloneHere's what I have: a portable resource unit, which houses all of my life-supporting resources, including air, water, food, and power. The primary carbon scrubber is still working at optimal efficiency, and I have a backup scrubber in my helmet if things get even worse. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesOur mutual friend, Kelly didn't want to fake her death, and we didn't feel like she needed to. No one thinks that she has magical powers, so she's just normal famous. She's covering for us now, keeping my website going, and staying in touch with our true fans. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingThat's not trivia, it's fitting. All patent clerks are geniuses.
Story Quote"Everyone said aye—in person, or through comms—except for Ramses. He didn’t want to get involved. According to him, this one Fireship posed no significant threat to either galaxy, and could only waste their time when they should be trying to find Romana." #salmonverse #fishquotes
6
IMS AloneThe water supply is finite, but the recycling system is working. I don't love the idea of drinking my own urine, but the truth is I've been doing it my whole life. Humans perfected water recycling decades ago. I guess it just seems weird to be so close to the process. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesIt's been scary, but things are gonna be much better. We just have to keep our heads down, and stay out of sight for a few months. After that, people will lose interest in the news of our deaths, and we can go out in disguises. No one will think that we're us. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingCome back later, I'm embedded.
Story Quote"I should think that a mission that included a kidnapped baby would be rife with corruption and amorality, but I truly hope that things have changed since then, and you at least feel safe and happy with the people around you. Write back when you can." #correspondence #fishquotes
7
IMS AloneBut what about food, you ask? Well, I have that covered too. A dayfruit smoothie is stored in one of my PRU compartments, and a tiny little garden where a new sac forms and grows. Some of my water goes into that. I think you can guess where the fertilizer comes from. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesIt's been boring in this safehouse. We've been missing Kelly, and the other people we know in this world. She knows that we're still alive, but she has to keep a distance, because people could be watching her. There is a conspiracy theory that I'm still alive. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingWho's coming to my Saturnalia next week? No clothes. No wine. All fun.
Story Quote"I’ve asked about going to Earth many times, long before I knew anything about you, but it’s always been impossible. This was planned as a one-way mission. We’re supposed to die here. Some already have. It will be a long time before anything changes." #correspondence #fishquotes
8
IMS AlonePower. How is this thing powered? There is a microfusion reactor in the PRU, and nanofusion reactors in my suit for true emergency use. Right now, I have enough reserves to last me for weeks, but the ramscoop nodes can extend that indefinitely. I'll discuss them next. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesRight now, Dutch, one of our bodyguards, and I are finishing up a game of cards. I'm still not entirely sure how it works, but I seem to be winning. The other guard is walking the perimeter in preparation for us going out for groceries. It's always me and her. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”I'm thinking about getting into this NXIVM organization. I've heard great things. Anyone wanna join with me? // A bit of a disclaimer, I'm about a year ahead on these 08:15 nanofiction slots, and it was around this time last year that I had COVID/long COVID. That's why they suck.
Story Quote"Surely it’s a pretty big priority. We’re not the only two people having this problem. You said that you don’t know much about Earth, but do you know about any of the other colonies? A lot of the rest of the solar system has been colonized by now too." #correspondence #fishquotes
9
IMS AloneInterstellar space isn't dense, but it is by no means empty either. There are individual atoms here and there. The PRU is covered in these little nodes that suck them up, and process them for integration. I might even be able to survive out here for an entire lifetime. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesYou remember when I went on that rant about the day of the week being named Thursday, supposedly after the god of thunder, Thor, who doesn't exist in this universe? Well, neither did the legend of Nimue. Yet that's the name of my guard. Where did it come from? #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”I'm not going to become full vegan, because I love cheese more than almost anything, but I've decided to stop eating eggs. Did you know, it takes 53 gallons of water to produce one egg? I'm really concerned with the environment. I'll fill that void with tons and tons of almonds.
Story Quote"That might sound like a non sequitur, but field researchers are the rock stars of the land. It’s a coveted position, but it’s also the most dangerous. Nearly all deaths are caused by field accidents. It even outweighs death from age-related disease." #correspondence #fishquotes
10
IMS AloneSince we have time, let's go over how I use the scarce elements that my ramscoop nodes pick up. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe. I use it to keep the reactors going, and to maintain clean water via electrolysis. Without it, nothing else matters. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesThough no one has ever asked—because they know it's none of their business—Nimue and I are posing as a married couple. Dutch is pretending to be my little brother, and the other guard, Mazin is meant to be Nimue's uncle. Again, it hasn't come up yet, though. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”Whoa, whoa, whoa! They got #TheBachelorETTE now? I've been watching #TheBachelor for 21 years, and I had no idea they made a spinoff. When did THIS happen?
Story Quote"Suffice to say that I would take your job over mine any day. You may never have encountered an issue yet, but it’s quite important, and if something does come up, you could be instrumental in saving lives. Mine is pointless, and utterly redundant." #correspondence #fishquotes
11
IMS AloneHelium doesn't have much use in a survival situation. Still, the designers didn't want to waste the second most abundant element. It's not a particularly efficient fuel for propulsion, but it's processed for the maneuvering thrusters, so they don't waste anything else. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesNimue and I go shopping once a week. We need supplies, of course, and it's good to go out and be seen by the community, even if we don't let them stare at our faces. I don't need glasses anymore, but I wear them for a disguise. I've not been recognized yet. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”I held the door open for someone in 1998, just as a good deed. I've still not yet been punished for it. I live in fear of its inevitability.
Story Quote"The Parallel’s only noteworthy competitor should be the Fifth Division. The problem is, most of their weapons were left in their former cosmic corner. They’re still powerful, and they still command this room, but they’re a shadow of what they once were." #salmonverse #fishquotes
12
IMS AloneOxygen is used for water and air. Carbon is for food synthesis and suit repair due to micrometeoroid strikes. Neon adds to the fuel, because again, what else would you use it for? Nitrogen is also for food. Iron reinforces the suit, specifically for radiation shielding. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesYou may think it would be better to hole up in the safehouse with MREs, but people would notice if we weren't real neighbors. We must look like normal people who moved in recently, and are trying to lead normal lives. We don't party and make friends, though. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingMy new cat's name is Kitten Caboodle. YOU'RE unoriginal!
Story Quote"Romana was standing in a lit reading nook of the hotel suite. She was surrounded by a swirling swarm of dark particles. They made her disappear for a couple of seconds, only to return her for a couple more before sending her away again. It was unending." #salmonverse #fishquotes
13
IMS AloneEverything moves in space, nothing is still. Even so, some things are faster than others. Me? I'm movin' pretty fast, so the scanning lasers can't detect particular resources fast enough to maneuver me towards hotspots. But the algorithm can make some educated guesses. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI have to end this quick. Obviously, no one knows that I'm in possession of a phone. I paid a guy I met in the bathroom of a convenience store to buy a burner, and leave it in a neutral location for me to find later. I wouldn't reach out if it weren't urgent. #NickFishermanLives
Language JokeEye haight ewe. Your to chased.
Story Quote"I may not ever be able to read a message that tried to come through during the upgrades. If you do try to send something—as people used to say in the olden days—it could get lost in the mail. I’ll hit you back when systems are up and running again." #correspondence #fishquotes
14
IMS AloneIf you're picking up this signal, then you might be wondering why I'm wasting my time explaining to you how my suit works. Well, the truth is that it works so well at keeping me alive that it's kind of boring here. But I do have options. I could sedate myself instead. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesTo be clear, the guy who bought me this burner phone was at a gas station on our way to where we live now. It's not like he's a local who could figure who I am, and where I live. So we're good, I'm good. I just need your help with something. It's important. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”Safelite Lite repairs, but Safelite Lite doesn't replace. If you need your window to be replaced, you'll have to go to the regular Safelite. If you go to Safelite Max, we'll give you half off tickets to see a band that a few of our techs are in. They play on Wednesday afternoons.
Story Quote"I sleep and work in the same compartment, and I’m all stocked up. Not everyone lives like that. Since I’ve never been able to leave my workstation unmanned for extended periods of time, I have special permission to store an expanded cache of rations." #correspondence #fishquotes
15
IMS AloneThe suit comes with all sorts of medication; everything that you would expect to find in a typical medkit. One of these is a sedative that will all but put me to sleep. It lowers my breathing patterns, and dampens my need for food and water, though it's not full stasis. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesAnyway, Leonard, please write me back. I gotta get out of the bathroom, and return to the card game. Don't worry, this burner isn't even on vibrate. I'll just have to check it periodically to see if you've replied. So if it takes a while, that explains why. #NickFishermanLives
Random NothingHave you ever noticed that Sofia Vergara's boobs are pretty big?
Story Quote"We have lockdowns all the time, so I kind of know what you went through. Like you, we’re always pretty well-stocked. We don’t have any restrictions on it, but we try to be mindful of what others will need, so we don’t take more than our fair share." #correspondence #fishquotes
16
IMS AloneWhy would I choose to sedate myself? I don't know how long I'm gonna be here. I'm sending this distress call out, but who knows who's nearby, or whether they'll pick it up. I have resources, but it might be smart to limit my reliance on them by limiting my use of them. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesWith my message to Leonard done, I hide the phone in the secret pocket that I sewed into the thigh of my pants. I've already been in the bathroom for too long, but if I kind of frown and look uncomfortable when I go back out, they won't ask me any questions. #NickFishermanLives
Fake ConversationPatient: "What's the verdict, doc? What's wrong with me?" // Doctor: "Let's just say that you now have something in common with about 90% of the koalas in Australia."
Story Quote"It sounds like his work comes with a lot of risks, not only from traveling through toxic zones, but from dealing with all sorts of different people who are living in different environments, and have different agendas, which may be difficult to parse." #correspondence #fishquotes
17
IMS AloneI'm still not convinced. If the idea is to conserve resources, then the question I need to ask myself first is for what? Is anyone coming? I don't think I'm gonna do it. I can always turn it on later. It doesn't knock me unconscious either, so I can revive myself too. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesI go back to the table, and pick up my cards. "You didn't peek, did you?" // "No." // "Uh-uh." // "Okay. Then I win." I slap my cards down on the table. They're nothing, I didn't win. I don't ever win. They're still not convinced I'm not just hustling them. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”Me: "Oh." *holds stomach* "I should have bought a soda too to settle my stomach. And also none of this junk food. And not the soda either." *opens fridge* "Oh right, there's already a soda in here. I had fast food yesterday too. Ha! That's the joke: diabetes.
Story Quote"I know that it wasn’t real, but it feels like I spent a lot of time crafting a perfect speech, and now, not only is it gone, but it probably wasn’t all that relevant. It was most likely total nonsense. And I still need to come up with something good." #correspondence #fishquotes
18
IMS AloneI check my power reserves, and power projections. While the scanners can't hunt for hotspots, they can predict how likely I am to stay supplied. I have plenty of deuterium for fuel, and the suit is expecting enough hydrogen to keep me going. Time for some entertainment. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesNimue steps back into the house, and stomps the excess snow from her shoes. "Ready to go?" she asks me. // "Absolutely," I answer. "I annihilated these two yahoos again." // She rolls her eyes, knowing the score. // "Have him back by midnight," Mazin jokes. #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”I did NOT get my ex-wife drunk. All I did was hire the world's worst divorce lawyer, and end up having to pay $98,000 a day in alimony. Then, to make it up to me, he drove with me to Vegas while she was there. Then I drove us all to the chapel so they could get a quick marriage.
Story Quote"It’s protected from outside interference, and prisoners are genuinely locked up in prison structures. They’re separated by walls, gaps, swaths of land, canyons, and oceans. You get sent here, you’re not going anywhere until it’s time for your release." #salmonverse #fishquotes
19
IMS AloneInformation is a resource too, and while power is a concern no matter where you are, data storage has become easier and easier over the years. I have countless hours of media at my disposal. Books, music, TV shows, and movies. The only problem is what to choose first. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"That jacket isn't heavy enough," Nimue points out as I'm heading towards her and the door. // "It's part of my cover," I explain. "He's the husband who never wears the right thing, only to complain about it not working later while his wife shakes her head. #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryMy mind is a steel trap, but memories keep leaking out. My current theory is that they're slipping through the air holes that I drilled into the trap so they can breathe.
Story Quote"He had been wanting this forever, and finally found a place to build it. Starter nanites constructed it for him while they were gone, with the first room being dedicated to the Insulator of Life, as well as the equipment necessary to produce a new body." #salmonverse #fishquotes
20
IMS AloneOh my God, I have to go to school! The suit recognizes that I'm in the middle of a life or death situation, and it's blocking all entertainment domains—even music—until I take and pass a course on the suit's functions. My grandmother helped design it. I know this stuff. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesNimue starts to shake her head, inadvertently playing into the character that I've concocted for her, but she stops herself, and just glares at me instead. Then she points to the coat hook. "Get the big one." // "Very well, honey," I say, keeping our cover. #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryWish me luck, I'm off to an alternate reality where everything is EXACTLY the same as it is here, except to distinguish 6s and 9s, the bar is placed above the number, instead of under it.
Story Quote"I suppose that we could come up with a protocol where we reply right away with a very brief acknowledgement as a sort of manual read receipt. That way, we know that the other is still alive, but can’t reply fully yet. What do you think of that idea?" #correspondence #fishquotes
21
IMS AloneI aced the class, as I do. Now I'm scrolling through the movies domain to find something that looks interesting to me. The Martian? No. Gravity? No. Lost in Space? Lol, hell nah. Nothing about space, please. I think I'll try this 2009 film called Pandorum. Looks creepy. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesWe step out of the house, and start to walk down the steps, only to come face to face with none other than Leonard. I sent the message only minutes ago. That was fast. "Oh, hey. Got your email. Looks like I was on the right path." // Nimue glares at me again. #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryEvery four years, people ask me when I'm going to run for president, but the truth is, I'm not old enough. I turned into a vampire when I was 17 in the summer of 1819, so I'm stuck in a filler year. I actually can't even vote!
Story Quote"In other news, my dad is coming home soon. My next letter to you should be a recap of what we end up discussing. He’s been fumfering when I’ve managed to get him on a call, so I know that he wasn’t innocent. We’ll finally get some answers, Corinthia." #correspondence #fishquotes
22
IMS AloneGuys, I was wrong. Pandorum was super about space. In fact, it's about isolation in space. It was very good, and I made myself watch the whole thing. But it still hit a little too close to home. My power projections are dropping, so I think that's it for entertainment. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"You sent him a damn email?" Nimue questions me. // "I was obviously already on my way," Leonard says. He steps forward. "Hi, I'm Leonard Miazga." // "How did you find us?" she demands to know. // Leonard sighs. "A lot of people know where you are, and that #NickFishermanLives."
Random NothingI'm glad that humans invented bags. I was worried about that for a second.
Story Quote"If that’s true, why didn’t he tell me about you earlier? We could have known each other since we were kids, and had some sort of relationship growing up. Yet he played into the experiment. He could have made things a little better, but chose not to." #correspondence #fishquotes
23
IMS AloneI'm still not ready to sedate myself to extend my life expectancy. How about I change things up a bit in a new way? I've been drinking chocolate dayfruit smoothie, but I'm running low on this batch. Why don't I try a more exotic flavor next? Fish? Meatloaf? Maybe duck? #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"I'll explain everything," Leonard goes on. "Why don't we go inside, so everyone can hear at once?" // Nimue is on high alert. "It's okay," I say to her. "We can trust him. I wouldn't have reached out if he were a threat." I look at him. "I know his future." #NickFishermanLives
Fake ConversationMe: "You know what your problem is?" // My new friend: "Here we go again. What's my problem?" // Me: "Your problem is everyone's always telling you what they think your problem is." // My friend: "Oh. Well, I think you're right."
Story Quote"In some ways, it’s been easier for me. I no longer have the opportunity to ask my mom about it, but I also don’t have the anxiety from anticipating her answers. I just hope that you two can find a way past this, and maintain your strong relationship." #correspondence #fishquotes
24
IMS AloneErm, I chose meatloaf. Like most people these days, I am vegetarian. I am actually a true vegetarian, which means that I don't even eat cruelty-free cultured meat. I think it's okay, but I'm really not used to it. I have no choice, though. I have to finish this batch. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"I don't know what that means," Nimue has never believed that I was from another universe. She just believes in the money that I paid her, and the fresh start that I promised. // "The damage is done, so let's discuss it. Non-violently. Please and thank you." #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryDo you know how many times I died trying to figure out how to design a parachute that worked? I did that for you. I died so you wouldn't have to. You're welcome, by the way.
Story Quote"I was just wondering if people on Vacuus even acknowledge that this time of the year used to be a thing, or if you’ve even heard of it in the first place. Or…do you go all out with thick themed sweaters, hanging stockings, and seasonal hot drinks?" #correspondence #fishquotes
25
IMS AloneAll right. I hope someone gets these messages eventually. I'm going to put them on a loop, and keeping send them out. For now, I guess I am going to sedate myself, if for nothing else than to escape the tedium. I won't be passed out, just lightly sleeping. See ya later. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesNimue is nothing if not pragmatic. I'm right; Leonard knows about us, and apparently so do others. So the only logical next step is damage control, not trying to figure out how to build a time machine. "Very well. Come in out of the cold," she instructs us. #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryYou know that crazy, superstitious belief that, if you eat an animal's brain, you gain its knowledge? Well, I just barely survived an alternate reality where that was real. There was just one really smart guy left. He has filed his teeth to sharp points. Humans are animals.
Story Quote"Cosette sometimes needed to be taken seriously, so she turned herself into an elder, but she sometimes wanted to be underestimated, so she showed up as a teenager. Most of the time, she just wanted to feel healthy, which meant being in her mid-twenties." #salmonverse #fishquotes
26
IMS AloneIt's taking me a long time to record this one last message before I go night-night. I've already injected myself with the sedative, but I'm still alert enough to speak. If you're reading this, it should be fine. If you're LISTENING to it, I probably sound intoxicated. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesWe walk into the house to find Dutch and Mazin by the windows. "Don't bother explaining," Mazin says. "I stuck a listening device in one of the bushes. We could hear the whole thing. So you're the famous parole officer, Leonard Miazga. It's nice to meet you." #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryTwice—TWICE!—I died because I totally forgot to eat for several weeks. I died of thirst once, but it wasn't my fault. I accidentally drank a protozoa, then hallucinated that I was in the Atacama Desert four million years ago. I was actually in Lake Baikal four million years ago.
Story Quote"The snake had a very different impression of them. It immediately unwrapped itself from Mateo’s leg, and went for the flock of holograms. It was probably pretty upset that none of them seemed to be real, but no one stuck around to see its full reaction." #salmonverse #fishquotes
27
IMS AloneI'm up! My suit just gave me a stimulant instead of waking me gradually. And there's a reason for this. I've been asleep for nearly two months, but the interstellar medium has become denser. This means two things: more power…and I'm probably approaching a star system. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesLeonard shakes Mazin's hand. "I'm not a P.O. anymore. I've gone private, and my first job is bringing in your charge while sending you three deeper into hiding with better resources for better lives. Sorry to spring this on you, but we don't have much time." #NickFishermanLives
Language JokeWow, look at all those crabs out there. It's so pincheresque.
Story Quote"It is mostly for the younger crowd, who are indoctrinated as children. They don’t go outside themselves. An adult who is rated for surface excursions collects from nearby, and hides them around the base for kids to find, and give to their families." #correspondence #fishquotes
28
IMS AloneIt feels good to be back! The ISM is denser still. My puny little sensors still can't be sure that there's a star system nearby, but there's gotta be. There's just gotta. I need to figure out how to slow myself down. I have my thrusters, but unfortunately, no drag sail. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"No, I don't like this," Mazin says, shaking his head. "Nick, I know you trust him, but I don't know him." // Leonard goes on, "Nick, those people you worked for in Iowa? They've been watching you. They've been watching you since you arrived in this universe." #NickFishermanLives
“Joke”The Hulk is my absolute favorite comic book character of all time. I just hate how angry he is. It's my one and only gripe. Otherwise, the Incredible Hulk is perfect.
Story Quote"For us to assume that they would inevitably agree—and to be ready to act on it immediately—would have been rude, and placed us at an unfair advantage when it comes to future talks. It would be like suggesting that they need us more than we need them." #correspondence #fishquotes
29
IMS AloneI know some tricks to generate drag. First, I can supercharge my PRU to prioritize helium. Pulling in material slows me down, and gives me the fuel I need to move around, which I'll do in serpentine. The rest of the suit can also interact with particles in other ways. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman Lives"I always thought that business was fishy," I admit. "Some sort of government entity, like the CIA?" // "As I said," Leonard begins, "I went private. They're always on the hunt for the unusual, and your blog caught their eye within a week of you starting it." #NickFishermanLives
Dumb Ditty🎵Love and marriage…love and marriage. Go together like a horse and buggy!🎵
Story Quote"The way I see it, he has to take the first steps to building a relationship with me, not the other way around. If he never sends me a message, then so be it. But I’m not going to write the first letter, and then sit here in anticipation of a reply." #correspondence #fishquotes
30
IMS AloneMy sensors are definitely detecting a star system now. I'm in its backyard. Fortunately, I seem to be coming at it coplanar to the orbits. I might be able to kiss a few atmospheres, which could drastically slow me down. The system will need to calculate these maneuvers. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesThat blog. I wouldn't be here without it. I often wonder what my life would have been like had I just kept my head down, and tried to assimilate. It's caused problems, but it was the only hope I ever had of finding a way back to my friends. I regret nothing. #NickFishermanLives
NanostoryI grew up in a cult, and they taught us that the U.S.S.R. stood for the United States of Stupid Russia. It's the only thing they got right.
Story Quote"I want you to know that I won’t let him ruin our new sibling connection, and I would hope that you don’t let whatever he does or says—or doesn’t do or say—stop you from wanting to converse with me. Okay, I think I’m done with all this negativity now." #correspondence #fishquotes
31
IMS AloneThe computer has made the calculations. It's mapped the orbiting bodies, and is maneuvering me towards the closest planet for a gravity assist. Not gonna lie, I'm scared. I could die. I'm going so fast, and there are so many variables. Wish me luck. Comms will be out. #IMSAlone
Nick Fisherman LivesEveryone is looking to me for a decision, or rather for any further information to help them make their own decisions. I nod. "We gotta do what we gotta do. If they've always known, there's no hiding from these people. We have to go in, and hope for the best." #NickFishermanLives
Fake ConversationAnd so I says, "John, you're on the wrong side of the wall!" Thank you! Thank you, that's my time, but I'll be here all week! And the week after that, and the week after that. I can never leave. No one can leave. Get comfortable folks, we're all in hell. You wanted this.
Story Quote"This can last for years, but it’s a relatively rare event, and has only happened twice since Earth sent the probes. What’s not all that rare is when one of these meteors becomes dislodged from the shower, and we end up between it and all its friends." #correspondence #fishquotes
February
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
Citrus ContractDave Nile Seidel is a teleporter, but not just any teleporter. He can transport regular people who would otherwise become ill from experiencing nonlinear time. He is not the only person who can do this, but he's the only choosing one who uses this power for good. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsWe've left the safehouse—left it behind. I've been asked to come in from the cold, to meet with an ex-employer who has apparently always known that I faked my death, and where I was living. They also seemingly believe that I am indeed from another universe. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesMy therapist: "It's nice to meet you, Nick. I know that you've spoken to others who've not helped much, but I'm here to make sure that you have the tools you need to be healthier. I specialize in treating patients with severe paranoia." // Me: "Dr. No offense, but you're a spy."
Story Quote"She didn’t end up accepting help from Ayata, save for a few minor tasks, and some constructive criticism. If this was going to mean anything, it had to come from Cosette, or he may as well be on a date with Ayata. Was this a date? Would he say as much?" #salmonverse #fishquotes
2
Citrus Contract"That's not my middle name," Dave contends. "And I'm not a choosing one. I'm a chosen one." // "Oh, well, la-dee-da," Buddy jokes. // "Why are you writing this down?" // "It's my vampire diary." // "You're not a vampire." // He shrugs. "Hardly think that matters." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"Why Michigan?" Leonard asks once we're in the car. He parked far away from the safehouse for security reasons. // "I had family here back in my home universe," I reply, "but I don't think I ever mentioned it on my website." // "Yes, you did," Mazin contends. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesDear Doorknobby, we have given you everything you asked for. We have placed you in a great position of power. Now you must give us what we agreed upon. You must decide upon a time for our date by tomorrow. You pick the restaurant, but you pay. From Russia with Love, Putz-Putz.
Story Quote"Tertius stepped forward. 'I’m in too, if you’ll have me,' he announced sheepishly. 'I can erase everyone’s memories. They won’t even know that their friends are gone while they wait for the next bus.' // 'That’s a brilliant idea,' Leona said gratefully." #salmonverse #fishquotes
3
Citrus Contract"Can we just get on with it?" Dave asks, annoyed. "You wanted an extinct fruit, or something?" // "Oh, we'll get to that," Buddy promises. "First, we need to draft a contract." // "I don't think that's necessary. A verbal contract should suffice." // "It won't." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"Wednesday, March 6, 2024 on your blog, you discussed places that you have lived and visited," Mazin goes on, "including Michigan. You never said if it was Ann Arbor, though." // "I forgot that, and that you have an eidetic memory. And yes, it was Ann Arbor." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesHorror story: My wife always pushed the elevator buttons, but I wanted to once, but it broke my finger, so she made me a golden prosthetic, but then the gold was killing me, but I wouldn't let it go. I said "bury me with my Goldfinger" and she did, then I was a zombie. The end.
Story Quote"For medical reasons, I’m not fit to travel in space. At least, I wasn’t. The restrictions have gradually been eroding, due to excessive need for planetary exodus, and advances in space travel which make it easier to treat at-risk patients off world." #correspondence #fishquotes
4
Citrus Contract"You gave me what I asked for, and I pay my debts. I'm only a teleporter. I can't escape through time. You'll always be able to find me." // "Sure, but I've been screwed over one too many times by people I thought I could trust. I'm not doing it like that again." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"They didn't find you because of your website," Leonard clarifies. "This is what they do. They knew you didn't die because you've been surviving since you came to this world. And they knew that if you faked your death, your security firm had to be in on it." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesWhen I set out to start making these so-called "Expanded Bond Titles" I didn't do it because I love Bond movies, or even because I hate them. I'm indifferent, and I'm only doing it to show off that I can play on any words, and when I do, I bring the Thunder…Ball's in your court.
Story Quote"Forgiveness is a really strong word, and I’m afraid I’m going to need more time before I can even consider it. That may be all it takes. We could not talk to each other the whole time, but I may one day get over it just because it’s been long enough." #correspondence #fishquotes
5
Citrus ContractDave sighs. "Fine. I'll sign your contract. Hand it over." // "You think it's that easy?" Buddy questions. "We have to write it together, and then we have to get it notarized." // "There's no such thing as a time traveling notary." // "Wrong again!" he exclaims. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"That was always a vulnerability," Nimue laments. // "It's okay," I say. "It's gonna be okay." // "We can't trust these people," Dutch reasons. // "No, but I can trust Leonard." // "I don't think he's in on it," Mazin begins, "but he may be just as clueless." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI went to Vegas, baby. Las Vegas, New Mexico. It's got buildings and streets, and probably people. I'm not sure as I spent most of my time in a secret underground Casino; "Royale with cheese" was the codeword to get inside. Whoops, I hope they don't kill me for revealing that.
Story Quote"The stray Valkyrie blocked our signal for a week, then flew away. The rest of the Valkyries are still orbiting on their usual path. I suppose I shouldn’t say usual as changing course is sort of their whole thing. But we’re safe from them…for now." #correspondence #fishquotes
6
Citrus ContractThere IS someone called The Officiant who conducts weddings that transcend linear time, and The Overseer is in charge of large-scale event-correction operations, but Dave is aware of no framework for nonlinear legal precepts. What the hell is Buddy talking about? #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsLeonard calmly pulls over to the side of the highway, and stops the car. "We may be driving on the road that leads to our deaths. Or it may lead to everything we have ever dreamed of. Or it could be nothing. Are ya gonna keep whining about the uncertainty? #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesMe: "I'm here for reincarnation." // Osides: "What makes you worthy? You Only Live Twice if you did something amazing with your first life." // Me: "I once leapt over to catch a fork in mid-air right when it fell off of the counter in the cafeteria." // Osides: "Go on through."
Story Quote"The good news is, of course, that we’re finally here in beautiful Australia. It took us a lot longer than we wanted, but as you’ve suspected, the platform doesn’t move all that fast. Plus, there were some tropical storms that we had to detour around." #correspondence #fishquotes
7
Citrus ContractBuddy snaps his fingers several times in Dave's face. "Where'd you go, buckaroo Billy? You totally zoned out there." // "It's just something I do sometimes, don't worry about it." He does worry about it. His mind wanders, and he often forgets where he is and why. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsMazin absorbs Leonard's words. "All right, man. Let's get on with it, and see what happens." He looks over at his partner, Nimue. "We're trained to get out of sticky situations, so we'll develop our contingency plans, like we always do, and figure it out." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesWhew, this is gonna be a tough one. It's so specific, and I had never even heard of it until now. But I can do it. Okay. *clears throat*. Yesterday, I, uhhhhhhh…watched a movie called On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Boom, nailed it. Cleverest wordplay yet! Suck on that, haters.
Story Quote"Things were already not as safe as they were a couple hundred years prior. Humans were evidently damaging Earth before they started to do it intentionally to harm each other! I just hope your leaders always exercise caution. Vacuus does have weather." #correspondence #fishquotes
8
Citrus Contract"Okay, it looks like you're about to go catatonic again," Buddy decides. "Let's get on with this. While you're right that there is technically no choosing one whose self-appointed job it is to handle nonlinear legal concerns, there a few who happen to be lawyers." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsWe continue on our way to a small airport where a private jet appears to be waiting for us on the runway. We drive right up to it like one of us is some kind of billionaire hotshot. Leonard tosses the keys to one of the stoic guards, and heads up the steps. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesThey say that Diamonds Are Forever, but I've developed new technology which will un-diamond any diamond, and turn it into graphite. Now, I know that graphite is an abundant material, but who doesn't want to use a pencil that used to be a diamond and a plank from Noah's Ark?
Story Quote"Cosette certainly doesn’t need her experiences on Hockstep to be broadcast for everyone to see. It is an invasion of privacy. They were all very personal, and she had no idea that she was being recorded. No one is above the law, not even a magical tree." #salmonverse #fishquotes
9
Citrus ContractDave relents. "Go on and call your little lawyer friend, but if I find out that you're coercing them, or doing anything else untowards here, you and I are gonna make some friction between us, you understand?" // "Like sexually?" Buddy asked. // "Call the lawyer!" #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsWe follow him into the aircraft. The bodyguard who didn't get the car keys steps through behind us, and pulls the stairs up. We take off shortly thereafter. The window partitions do not open. We are not allowed to know where we're going, but it takes all day. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesMy great great grandpappy always used to tell me to "live and let live". He would say it every time we parted, like it was a thought that should be constantly going through my head. One day, he said "Live and Let Die", and told me that that's what he meant to say the whole time.
Story Quote"He didn’t want to get into a real fight either, especially since he would definitely lose. She was the Captain, and her face certainly showed that she was giving him an order in that capacity, instead of as his wife and partner. He nodded respectfully." #salmonverse #fishquotes
10
Citrus Contract"We don't call him. We go to him." The way Buddy's version of time travel works, these frightening little dark particles come out of the aether, and swarm his target. In this case, that's both himself, and Dave. After the swarm dissipates, they're somewhere else. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsLeonard pulls giant parkas down from an overhead compartment near the front of the jet. We came with coats, but he says we need something stronger. And he's right. It's blistering cold. My top suspects are Russia, Greenland, or somewhere in northern Canada. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI spent eleven years asking for the restroom last night in my dream. People kept giving me answers that were either wrong…or lies. Finally, one guy points, and tells me to speak with The Man with the Golden Gun, who shot me. I woke up having wet and bled the bed. Fun story, eh?
Story Quote"They never told us that these inventions ultimately came from off-world. I hope that it’s in the literature somewhere—and I’m just ignorant as an individual—not that they’re intentionally hiding the truth from us to allow someone else to take credit." #correspondence #fishquotes
11
Citrus ContractDave and Buddy are in a hallway now. Dave doesn't know what year this is, but the architecture looks rather old. They're standing in front of a door with frosted glass. The sign says JERICHO HAGEN, ESQ. Dave reads it out loud. // "Yep, that's him," Buddy confirms. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsThere is one permanent structure here, which is either an outhouse or a shed. Or—if this is all secret spycraft—an elevator that leads to a massive underground base…with central heating. We don't go there, though. Instead, we walk towards some white tents. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI've never seen The Spy Who Loved Me, but I saw an episode of a TV show called "The Spy Who Really Liked Me". That was the name of the episode, not the show itself. The show was Jake 2.0. Why isn't this funny, you ask? I'M NOT YOUR MONKEY! Some anecdotes are boring! Get over it.
Story Quote"Australia is a big place. Do you have to stay near the dome you were trading with, or is the whole continent fair game? If it’s the second one, then this stipulation feels a bit arbitrary. Maybe they have a reason that makes sense when you hear it." #correspondence #fishquotes
12
Citrus ContractA man briskly opens the door, and is about to say something, but is shocked and appalled by their appearance. "Get in here," he urges. "This is 1955, you are NOT dressed appropriately." // They comply with his wishes. "I take it that you're Jericho?" Dave asks. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsA small group of people are huddled around a folding table in the tent. You've seen it in movies. One older man turns around when he hears the flap open. "Mr. Fisherman, it's an honor to meet you. I believe you're owed a paycheck." // "How so?" I question. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesThe worst job that I ever had was Moonraker. We're not talking about our moon, Luna, but the one where I worked was a lot like it. I literally raked the entire surface of this thing…and why? Why did they pay me to do this? They didn't. It was a 14.7 million-year practical joke.
Story Quote"The ones that did were either very intelligent and observant, but few and far between, or responsible for destroying the environment themselves, and deliberately withholding pertinent information. Either way, the general population wasn’t hearing it." #correspondence #fishquotes
13
Citrus Contract"Look," Jericho says. "I'm in this time period as a sort of…penance. I'm trying to get back to traditional law to build an appreciation for what it becomes 150 years from now. I'm really not interested in interacting with you people. Please leave my office. Now." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"When you worked for us, as a janitor," the man continues. "You never collected your final paycheck. It fell through the cracks." // I stare at him. "Sir, I'm rich." // "Correction, you WERE rich. Now you're dead." He stops to sign on a colleague's tablet. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesOne of my followers works for British Intelligence, which is a competing agency, but we're collaborating on a case. She knows who she is. No one else should read this tweet. Blue Tulip, this is For Your Eyes Only: the moneybag is behind Big Ben. NO ONE ELSE SHOULD GO STEAL IT!
Story Quote"My friend who lives up there now has been asking me to take the launch loop into orbit for a visit, and I want to do that, but I also don’t. So much can go wrong. I cannot believe that I used to live on a ship. How did I end up so soft and cowardly?" #correspondence #fishquotes
14
Citrus Contract"All we need you to do is draw up a boilerplate contract for us. I've hired him to do some work for me, and we need to legalize the details," Buddy promises. // "I wasn't hired for anything, I was coerced," Dave clarifies. // "Well, he didn't need to know that." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"Why are we here, sir?" I ask. // "You don't have to 'sir' me," he insists. "You can call me Vin." // "Because you like cars," Dutch guesses. // Vin is surprised. "Yeah. Most people just assume my full name is Vincent." // Dutch shrugs like it's no big deal. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI've probably only seen four whole Bond movies. I don't remember which ones, but I know none of them was the offensive Octopussy. This isn't meant to be funny, I just think that names of things shouldn't use inappropriate words when they're child-facing. Not everything is a joke.
Story Quote"It wasn’t automatic for me, because the pollutants hide the stars, but it just so happens to be that one of the Mauna Kea observatories will already be looking in the right direction on May 17, so all I’ll have to do is register for remote viewing." #correspondence #fishquotes
15
Citrus Contract"Uh, I kind of do," Jericho argues. "Illegal activity means that the contract isn't boilerplate. I mean—I'm not gonna do it either way. Do you see what's over there? It's a typewriter…not even an electric one. I hate the 1950s!" // "I can fix that," Buddy says. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsI keep watching Vin quietly until he answers. "We would like to offer you an opportunity." // "An opportunity for what?" Leonard asks. // "You don't know?" I ask Leonard. // "I was told to bring you here," he answers. "I wasn't told why. Almost didn't do it." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesOnce at Staring Contest Camp, we played a game called Never Say Never where one kid would utter the words, then finish the sentence with a command for another kid. I was commanded to rip out my own throat. It was the best risk I ever took because now I'll Never Say Never Again.
Story Quote"It only slows him down to about 99% of realtime. But during this time, Andrei is as hard as a rock. He can’t move, he can’t be moved, and if he’s not lying down when it happens, he’ll become incredibly fatigued while he’s waiting to return to the fray." #salmonverse #fishquotes
16
Citrus Contract"Wait, no, don't!" Jericho cries, but it's too late. Buddy releases his dark particles, and transports all three of them and the manual typewriter elsewhere. // "Welcome to the year 2487," Buddy declares with great pride in himself. // "This isn't what I meant." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsDutch steps forward. "What would this job entail? And does the offer extend to all of us?" He's uncharacteristically serious, and maybe a little protective of me? // "You'll all be offered jobs, which utilize your unique and respective skills appropriately." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesSuspect: "I grew up in a slaughterhouse. That's all my parents could afford. My window didn't even lead to the outside. It showed me A View to a Kill room where the helpless animals were murdered. That, detective, is why I'm now the Farmer Killer. They didn't give me a choice."
Story Quote"Ramses had installed a coherence gauge, which measured the drive’s readiness factors, boiling them down to a color-coded scale. Red meant that it was too early to make another safe jump. Violet meant that it was fully charged, stable, and ready to go." #salmonverse #fishquotes
17
Citrus Contract"Mr. Hagen," Buddy begins. "You did not want to be there anymore. You were waiting for your ride home, and you obviously regretted how much time you asked for. I showed up early, and gave you an out. You can complain all you want, but I know that you're grateful." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"I'm not qualified for anything," I reason. "The last job I had with you was as a janitor." // Vin chuckles. "We had no choice. You were trying to stay anonymous, and not applying to higher level jobs. But we all know your potential, and life experiences." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI got in a fight with an ogre six years ago. He punched The Living Daylights out of me. Now I only see the darkness of death. I've asked people to put me out of my misery, but as I've told you, I'm immortal, so it never works. True peace is always within sight, but out of reach.
Story Quote"I never said, but our settlement is not the ideal location for a large telescope, so our main one was built at an outpost several kilometers away. A small team operates there in person while researchers use the data as needed, and allowed, remotely." #correspondence #fishquotes
18
Citrus ContractJericho sighs, and looks around a bit. "What is this place?" // "My summer home," Buddy says. // "You said something about a contract?" Jericho asks. // "Yeah." Buddy steps over to a bookshelf, and pulls a few pages out from between two books. "Start with these." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"What exactly does your organization do?" I press. // Vin smiles. "When you first came to this universe, you called it boring, right?" // "Sorry about that," I say awkwardly. // He smiles wider. "It's boring because of us. What we do is protect this world." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI only went to the DMV to renew my driver's license, but there was a small mix-up and I ended up with a License to Kill. I don't want to hurt anyone, but one of the requirements for having the license is actually using it. If I refuse…someone else will get a license to kill me.
Story Quote"They don’t have domes, since that would interfere with the views from the telescopes, so they built compartmentalized vestibules to keep the fumes from getting inside the buildings, always keep the doors closed, and only go outside in hazmat suits." #correspondence #fishquotes
19
Citrus ContractJericho sighs again, and starts looking through the documents that Buddy already prepared. "This says he'll bring your dead daughter back to life if you succeed." // "What?" Dave questions. "It's not possible, I've tried." // "It's possible for me," Buddy claims. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"I don't understand," I say. // Vin picks up his own tablet. "You sign the NDAs, and I'll explain everything. To give you some reason to even consider it, I'm authorized to tell you that visitors from another universe…is not the strangest thing we've seen." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesTo stop me from killing innocent people as a zombie, my wife tried to pour molten gold into my eyes, so I wouldn't be able to see my victims, but I ate her brains before she was able to finish, so now I just walk around with one GoldenEye, and then I found five dollars. The end.
Story Quote"It sounds like most people live under land domes, but you’re on a floating platform, which takes some level of creative thinking. Has anyone ever thought of living in an aerostat? It might not be better—per se—but it could give people more options." #correspondence #fishquotes
20
Citrus Contract"No," Dave insists. "Ann was killed with the hundemarke. Or rather, she wasn't killed intentionally with it, but she was a casualty when someone had it activated to make another event a fixed moment in time. She can't be saved. I have tried everything…everyone." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsI look back at everyone else. Dutch is shocked. Leonard is apprehensive, so he probably didn't know about this. Nimue and Mazin don't know what to think of it. They're not entirely sure what big of a deal this is. "Are you saying the supernatural is real?" #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesYou can all thank me for the gift of the present. They say that the past no longer exists, and tomorrow will never come, but what they don't realize is that I'm the one who kills the past. I'm the reason it stops existing. I keep trying to kill tomorrow…but Tomorrow Never Dies.
Story Quote"We’re supposed to be fixing it, and if we start treating the bug as a feature, we’ll either not work hard on cleaning it up, or we will, and people will have to leave the aerostats before too long anyway. Neither plan seemed reasonable or rational." #correspondence #fishquotes
21
Citrus Contract"Have you noticed how unusual my time power is?" Buddy puts forth. "Other people call the little things that I create dark particles. Why do they exist? What is the point? No one else has them. It's because I'm unique. I can get your daughter back, guaranteed." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"That's not a word that we use," Vin says, sitting on the edge of the table. "But that's all I'm at liberty to say…until you sign." He presents us with his tablet again. // Not hesitating, Dutch steps right up, takes it from him, and scribbles on the screen. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI asked my fiancé if he was having reservations about our wedding, and he said that he wouldn't give me up for the world. I smiled, but then he added that The World Is Not Enough. He wouldn't sell me for a dime less than the world AND the moon. He now owns the world and the moon.
Story Quote"It’s true that I never developed relationships as strong as the ones I sometimes see on TV, but I would still consider them my friends. I don’t know why I’ve never talked about them to you, but they were there, and we had fun. Who else was at yours?" #correspondence #fishquotes
22
Citrus Contract"It's a transporter," Jericho says quietly. // "Huh?" Buddy asks. // "From Star Trek," Jericho goes on. "It atomizes you, then beams them down to the target, and reconstitutes your atoms. In reality, if we could do that, it wouldn't really be you. Just a copy." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsI have to see this through, whatever it is. I take the tablet from Dutch, and sign next to my own name, as does Leonard after me. Nimue and Mazin are still not so sure. // "What happens if they don't sign?" I ask Vin. // "There are a few alternative options." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesSix years ago, I was almost killed, but then I remembered that I still hadn't watched the last three episodes of Castle, so I decided to Die Another Day. I still haven't gotten archivetweet to it. I keep promising my killer that it will be soon, but…I just lost interest in the story.
Story Quote"This is all very overwhelming, but no one says anything out loud. They just exchange looks, and it’s clear that none of them was prepared for what they were getting themselves into. They should have asked for more information before raising their hands." #salmonverse #fishquotes
23
Citrus ContractJericho drops the papers that Buddy handed him. "He's dead. I'm not really Jericho Hagen. You didn't transport me from the past. You killed him, and then I replaced him as a copy. I have all of his thoughts and memories, so I believe that I'm him…but it's a lie." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman Learns"There are roles within our organization that don't require signing nondisclosure agreements," Vin goes on. "They could do something like that. It would protect them from public scrutiny, and give some meaning back to their lives. […] Or they can sign too." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI forgot that there were two Bond movies with the same title. What should I do, tell the same joke as I did before? I guess comedians tell the same jokes in different cities all the time, right, like when they perform at a new Casino? "Royale with cheese" is still the password.
Story Quote"The Dritewing was the flagship of the Castlebourne fleet, though it had no current crew, and Hrockas had no idea how to start an army, nor a security contingency. He never thought that he might need one, and mercenaries weren’t really a thing anymore." #salmonverse #fishquotes
24
Citrus ContractBuddy looks over at Dave. "He's obviously having an existential crisis. He doesn't know what he's talking about. What I do isn't just duplication—it's transportation, same as any other time traveler. Jericho, make the contract." // "No." He heads towards the door. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsMazin frowns at his partner. "We agreed to protect them, whatever that entails. Let's sign it, and continue down whatever path this is together." // "Okay," Nimue agrees. She takes the tablet first, and then him. // "Great!" Vin says. "Let's go for a walk." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesI worked at a movie theatre when the 24th Bond film came out. I remember thinking, "what the hell is this movie about?" I watched it several times from the projection booth—which I called my Quantum of Solace—without being able to hear the sound until I was fired for not working.
Story Quote"He’s really good at knowing when someone wants to speak, but is too afraid to interrupt, and will in fact interrupt other people to give the quieter ones their chances. I wish I could be more like him in this regard, always charming and fascinating." #correspondence #fishquotes
25
Citrus Contract"Don't worry about the contract," Dave says when it looks like Buddy is about to do something to stop Jericho. "I get you your fruit, you give me my daughter. You go back on your word, I come after you. I call Mateo. I don't think you want that." // "No, I don't." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsVin steps out of the tent, and we all follow him. "No, you two stay at camp. Grab some coffee and doughnuts. You already have significant training. You'll jump straight to the testing phase. This will just be for Nick and Dutch, and their handler, Leonard." #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesMy therapist: "I'll say a word, and you'll respond with one word answers only, please." // Me: "Okay." // Therapist: "Woman." // Me: "Boobs." // Therapist: "Keyboard." // Me: "Boobs." // Therapist: "Hiking." // Me: "Boobs." // Therapist: "Skyfall." // Me: "DontthinkIsawthatone."
Story Quote"I don’t have any myself, unless you count watching TV. There’s so much content from the before-fore times, and it’s the easiest thing to do while I’m at work. There’s no collecting up here, and there aren’t many opportunities to make things either." #correspondence #fishquotes
26
Citrus Contract"You have something I need," Dave goes on, "and you know I would do just about anything to get it. We don't need a physical contract anymore. I don't know why you didn't just tell me all this when we first met. You're not the brightest bulb in the bunch, are you?" #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsNimue and Mazin do stay behind, because Vin is right; they don't need training. But what kind of training are Dutch and I going to be going through, and why here? I'm freezing my fingers off. I know a lot of people say that they hate the cold, but I VERY do. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesIn an alternate reality, James Bond is an iconic American spy franchise. So instead of Spectre, they call it Specter. Instead of Q, they call him Line. Instead of driving on the left side, they drive on the correct. Instead of a vodka martini, he drinks a Jägerbomb with Red Bull.
Story Quote"Ya gotta stay fit, and just hanging from a pull-up bar or doing a few push-ups is boring. I used to play a little football as a kid, before the gases, but I never got back into it in the latter years. I don’t miss it, and have no plans on going back." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus Contract"You're shocked and confused, so I'm gonna let that one slide. Just go get me my fruit." He lifts his hands to wave Dave to some unknown location." // "Where are you sending me?" Dave asks. // "To a time when some people still used toilet paper instead of bidets." #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsI gotta say, as terribly freezing as this area is, it's quite beautiful. It looks completely untouched by man. I'm happy to be back to hiking, which I used to love to do. We walk for several kilometers, hardly saying a word. Then we get in a couple of canoes. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesMe: "I feel like I'm wasting my life. All I do is sit around, rewatching TV shows, and writing dumb jokes for Twitter that no one ever reads." // My therapist: "Learn to prioritize the things that matter. Do you have time to die?" // Me: "No, I'm so busy! There's No Time to Die!"
Story Quote"That would take a lot of dedication on your part, and we don’t even know if you would like it. You might be annoyed to see those people taken to those beautiful remote locations where the air is pure, and clean enough even where they normally live." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ContractBuddy releases the scary dark particles from his hand, and banishes Dave from this place. Once the room stops spinning, Dave looks around to find that Buddy did not come along with him, but that doesn't mean he's alone. He has incidentally attracted an audience. #CitrusContract
Nick Fisherman LearnsWe paddle the canoes across the lake. We move slow in deference to the wind. On the other side, Vin makes me and Dutch remove our parkas, and our jackets, throws them in the canoes, and orders Leonard to leave with him. We're on our own. And we're gonna die. #NickFishermanLearns
Expanded Bond TitlesEon assured me that the title for the next installment in the James Bond franchise would be available by now, but it looks like they screwed me over…AGAIN. I'll just have to make one up for this joke. Let's see, what will they likely call it? I'm thinking "Golden Death Bullet".
Story Quote"If you’re lookin’ for a story about a regular person who has to beat the odds despite having no clue what he’s doing, then you’ll probably like The Winfield Files. It’s a series of twelve books, and there’s even a TV adaptation with twelve seasons." #correspondence #fishquotes
March
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Citrus ShieldDave Seidel was sent time traveling to the middle of some town square, apparently at the local farmer's market. Several people are staring at him, jaws on the ground, having presumably witnessed the miracle. Others have become interested since his sudden appearance. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersDutch and I are in the middle of nowhere. It's freezing, there's no shelter, and we're not wearing very much. We don't have any supplies. It's not like I keep a matchbook or knife in my pocket. Those are the two most important things in a survival situation. #NickFishermanLingers
Fake ConversationMy GF: "You can translate it." // Me: "I don't remember high school French." // GF: "Try!" // Me: "Ugh. 'The others, they're dead. They're dead. It killed them—it killed them all.'" // GF: "Is that what they're really saying?" // "Me: "No, that's from LOST! I don't speak French!"
Story Quote"How could they not know? They have all been living here for the last half century, and they never even felt like something was different? Now they need to question everything about their whole lives. Is anything in the universe what they thought it was?" #salmonverse #fishquotes
2
Citrus ShieldAs Dave is scanning the crowd, vamping for an explanation for his teleportation with a smile and some nodding, he catches sight of Buddha's hand citron at a fruit booth. That's why Buddy sent him here. But these people don't have a monopoly on them. He can bug out. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersDutch pulls me into a bear hug. "Body heat is great," I begin, "but it is not gonna last. We can't walk like this, and we need to find and-or build a shelter ASAP." // "No, this is a goodbye hug. I'm not gonna make it out here. I barely survived Michigan." #NickFishermanLingers
Good QuestionIt's 2025. Do you know where your democracy is?
Story Quote"One of them started lasering into his neck, and worked its way down his spine. Other incisions were made on his wrists, shoulders, ankles, the back of his knees, and even his mons pubis. The cuts hurt, but the implantation of the devices hurt even more." #salmonverse #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldOne last thing, Dave catches English on the booth signs, and takes a guess that they're in California. Buddha's hand isn't sold everywhere. "Thank you, ladies and germs, you can catch me in Las Vegas on Mondays and Tuesdays at the Starbound Lounge!" He bows deeply. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"No," I disagree, "we can do this. We're humans, and if there's one thing that animals have that humans have lost…it's strong survival instincts." // "Great pep talk." // "I mean, it leads us to underestimating our skills. But we can get those skills back!" #NickFishermanLingers
Random NothingMy wife's name is Anne Daykroyd.
Story Quote"Since it takes so terribly long for each message to cross the interplanetary void between us, I think it makes the most sense for us to read a whole book, or watch a whole season, in between letters. It will all still probably take quite a long time." #correspondence #fishquotes
4
Citrus ShieldReal magicians can't literally disappear into thin air. It always involves some misdirect. So Dave quickly pulls his hands into his sleeves, turtles his head into his jacket, and teleports away naked. Not every teleporter can leave their clothes behind like that. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersDutch releases me. "Okay, boss. What do we do first?" // I look up. "I've never understood how to measure time just by looking at the sun. But we have to assume that nightfall is right around the corner. Let's start lookin' around, for a cave, or something." #NickFishermanLingers
Dumb Ditty🎵English loo! // Gotta get into this English loo! // I'll wreck the toilet, ya know it's true! // Vi-vi-vi-vi Vindaloo! // Finally tasted her vindaloo! // I really wish I could've refused // But rejecting her cooking would have been rude! // Oh my, this meal was my Waterloo!🎵
Story Quote"To answer your question, our relationship with the dome remains strong. Generally speaking, the immigrants aren’t having significant issues, though it’s a culture shock for many of them. In some ways, we’re different, but in others, we’re the same." #correspondence #fishquotes
5
Citrus ShieldHe's outside of Lebanon, Kansas now. He jumped to a wooded area to avoid being spotted, but there's no one here anyway. It's still fairly early for tourists, though the sun is higher, providing further evidence that he was in California before. He needs some help. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"We'll have to split up, but don't stray farther than shouting distance from each other" I go on. "A skim search will allow us to cover more ground. Don't be thorough, be quick. You go clockwise while I go counterclockwise. We'll rendezvous on that ridge." #NickFishermanLingers
Language JokePeeta peed on the pita.
Story Quote"We’re both being studied against our will. I think that’s what really endeared him to me, and honestly, this street seems to go both ways. He has had a much harder life than I realized, and I think that he also sometimes wishes that he were on Earth." #correspondence #fishquotes
6
Citrus ShieldThis is literally the center of the country. Right under this spot, a woman called The Concierge runs a large facility called The Constant. Time travelers can come here when they need aid, direction, or just a rest. Dave…needs clothes. Hopefully, she'll let him in. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersWe go our separate ways, and start looking for a pre-existing shelter. "Gather firewood!" I shout to him. We might as well feed two birds with one worm while we're at it. I go halfway around a circle, but don't find any safe place to get out of the elements. #NickFishermanLingers
Hurtful Stuff"Wherever you go, there you are" has such meaning, and it's not meaningless. Nor is it devoid of meaning, or holds no meaning. It's so full of meaning, and it's meaningful. It means a lot to me, because of what it means, which is not that it means nothing; it means something.
Story Quote"A small group of brave people during the toxic buildup dedicated their lives to preserving humanity’s knowledge. Some regions have information that others don’t, but only due to oversights and lapses, not a concerted effort to hide the truth from us." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldDave runs into the tiny chapel that is secretly also an elevator to The Constant. "Hello? Dave Seidel, requesting respite." There is no set protocol, not even a doorbell. But she knows he's here, and she'll either answer, or she won't. "I really just need clothes." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersIt looks like Dutch is erring on the side of caution, and hasn't gone around his half of the circle quite as fast, so I just keep going to meet off-center. In the spot where we do run into each other is exactly what we were looking for. It's a scary cave. #NickFishermanLingers
“Joke”My neighbor's smoke alarm has been going off for the last six years, and not gonna lie, it's starting to get on my nerves.
Story Quote"You’re my brother, which makes it awkward, but we also don’t know each other very well yet, so that makes it awkward in a different way. I’ll spare you the details no matter what, but please let me know if you would rather not hear about it at all." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldIn the back corner is a shelf that contains a comment box for visitors. It magically rotates to the left into another dimension to be replaced by an identical shelf, except that this one has a set of clothes on it, as requested. "Okay, thanks!" He takes the clothes. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"You had a thing about spiders," Dutch points out. // "I still do. Even when I was immortal, I did not like them." // "It's all we have." // "Yeah," I agree. "Survival is everything right now." I drop my collection of firewood. "Let's make some friction." #NickFishermanLingers
“Joke”Last year, I was going to make a KIND OF offensive joke here, but I had to push it back a year. Then I come to realize that it shouldn't be done on a Saturday, so I tried to push it to 2026. But THAT..is a Sunday! So just forget it. You'll have to cancel me for something else!
Story Quote"Slightly higher, a boy is hanging onto the central column, holding on with one hand and two feet, like a monkey. His other hand shields his eyes from the sun. He’s searching for something in the opposite direction of who Selma imagines to be his sister." #salmonverse #fishquotes
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Citrus Shield"How much do I owe ya?" Dave jokes once he's done dressing. No response. He hasn't been invited down, and he probably won't be if clothes are his only problem. But they're not, are they? "I need to get a citrus to the future. Any ideas?" The elevator begins to move. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"Do you know how to make a fire without matches or a lighter?" Dutch asks. // "Cricket and Claire taught me a thing or two. But understanding the mechanics of starting a friction fire is not the same as accomplishing it. I've never actually done it before." #NickFishermanLingers
Response ContestI'm offering a reward of $75,000 to anyone who can prove to me that clouds exist within the next 30 seconds. That's 30 seconds from the moment that this tweet is posted; not from whenever you happen to see it. I'm waiting…
Story Quote"She spent most of the time taking the slingdrive apart, and putting it back together, as if the task alone was enough to provide her with answers. She didn’t even really seem to examine the parts, or anything. She only needed to go through the motions." #salmonverse #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldDave takes the five-kilometer trip down to the Constant in the elevator. There's a way to allow him to just skip all of this waiting, and teleport to the bottom, but the Concierge sets limits. He has never met her, but she has her rules. Finally, he makes it there. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"Go find a sinewy thing, like the drawstring of a pair of sweatpants, or maybe a vine. We'll be trying several things before something finally works." // "Unless we die first," Dutch points out enthusiastically. // "That's right," I say, matching his energy. #NickFishermanLingers
Random NothingWhen the name Carolina was invented, it went a little somethin' like this: "Caroline, uhh…what was I gonna say? Oh yeah, I hate your name. It doesn't have enough syllables." I'm creative. This is a creative little anecdote I came up with. Can I be a famous author now? Pleeeease!
Story Quote"Others are running low. The funny thing is, as helpful as it is to the Australian dome for us to take those people, it’s actually good for us too, because that is what we need. We want to establish our own nation, and to do that, we need citizens." #correspondence #fishquotes
11
Citrus Shield"Chauffeur," she says with a nod when the doors open. // "Concierge," he replies. // "Let me guess, you're mixed up with a man who calls himself Buddha." // "We just call him Buddy," Dave clarifies. // "Right. Well, as you know, transporting citrus is impossible." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersI start to organize the sticks that we collectively collected, by size. While I'm at it, I look for one that we can use for a bow drill. I'm not sure exactly which kind will work best. I suppose my only choice is to use my instincts, and hope for the best. #NickFishermanLingers
NanostoryI once met Evelyn Waugh, but I never met Evelyn Waugh.
Story Quote"I won’t even get into population control mandates, but the only things keeping us from bursting at the seams are the people who do the transportation jobs like we used to have, and those building new settlements, or expanding preexisting habitats." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus Shield"That's what I told him," he agrees. "But I have to find a way. This facility is, like, 2,000 years old. It's not constantly full. Haven't you ever had time to wonder why citrus explodes when it hits the time vortex, or whatever?" // "Well…no. I've not." she says. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersEverything's frozen here, and there are no vines. At least none that holds up to Dutch's stress test. We need this fire as soon as possible, and it's going to take us forever just to make our first sparks. We take off our shoelaces to use those for the cord. #NickFishermanLingers
NanostoryDark matter isn't actually dark; it's white. It's produced in black holes and neutron stars when the galaxy breaks down non-baryonic particles during low hydrogen levels, such as during exercise. We should really be calling it galactic acid.
Story Quote"It’s really gross, but this is where pretty much all of our human waste goes. We used to use some of it for radiation shielding in our habitats, but we almost exclusively use a special fungus for that instead now, though that does feed on our waste." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus Shield"Look," the Concierge goes on, "I let you down here to give you some advice. Give up. Whatever he has over you, let it go." // "He has my daughter," Dave interrupts. They both go silent before he continues. "I have to get him his damn fruit. I don't have a choice." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersI tie our shoelaces to each other, and then I pick up the stick that I chose to use for the bow drill, and then I turn the stick around, and look at it at different angles. And then I look over at Dutch. "Yeah, I have no idea what the fuck I'm doing, sorry." #NickFishermanLingers
NanostoryI'm trying this new weight loss regimen. You can eat whatever you want during a period of eight hours, and you can sleep for eight hours. For the other eight hours in the day, you literally have to run the entire time.
Story Quote"I know that it’s kind of an odd request, but if we aren’t odd, then what are we, right? I feel like I’m doing my rambling thing again, but worse than usual, so I think I’m gonna call it a night. You can disregard everything I’ve said in this letter." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldThe Concierge sighs, saddened by Dave's explanation. "I can't take sides. It's not part of the deal," she laments. "So you didn't hear it from me…" // "Yeah?" Dave asks. "Go on." // All I'll say is mu-metal." // "Mu-metal?" // "Mu-metal," she repeats cryptically. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"Can you make fire without a bow drill?" Dutch asks. // "Absolutely!" I say enthusiastically. "But not before we freeze to death." // "I keep bumping up against that too." // "Luckily, the attempt to make fire alone will warm us up." // "Let's get on it!" #NickFishermanLingers
“Joke”I saw two really old people full-on making out in the park yesterday, and I said, "gross! Those two are Nazis." They were also Nazis, I forgot to say that part.
Story Quote"Had things gone more smoothly here—had Condor and I lived more stable lives—the insights taken from this research could have helped humanity better understand how humans adapt and survive in the black. Space travel will only increase in the future." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldDave looks back at the elevator. "Can you lift the teleportation blocker?" // "Just for egress," she agrees. "You can stay for a night, but once you leave, I won't let you back down." // "Thanks for your help, ma'am." // "Danica," she says just before he disappears. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersEven without my jacket and the parka, I'm still wearing three layers on top. I remove my t-shirt, and give it to Dutch for added protection, claiming that I need better maneuverability, but really, it's just that this is all my fault…and my responsibility. #NickFishermanLingers
“Joke”Big news: I just found religion. It was in the back of the pantry. I had to throw it out. It went bad years ago.
Story Quote"They were forced to negotiate in the Rock Meetings. The sparks of conflict never ignited the flames of war, but Ingrid never managed to wrest control over a whole universe either. That certainly would have been nice to see written in the history books." #salmonverse #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldIt's the year 2077, yet good old-fashioned brick and mortar libraries still exist. They have a lot more computers and 3D printers than they used to, but the dusty books are still in the stacks. "Mu-metal," Dave says under his breath. "What is that?" // "An alloy." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersI don't have a knife to cut a notch in the wood that I'm rubbing the stick against to start a fire, but there are plenty of rocks around. I begin to dig into the plank, struggling to pull out the splinters with my numb fingers. Well. This will have to do. #NickFishermanLingers
NanostoryWhen I poop, I just sit there and poop. I don't do anything else. Just two or three hours of pooping, and staring at the wall in front of me. I'm thinking of installing a fun house mirror to make it a more interesting experience.
Story Quote"Romana took off her jacket, and plopped it over the back of a chair as she was walking towards a wall. The door of a standing pod slid open on its own, and she stepped up into it as she spun around 540 degrees like a ballerina. She smiled at her father." #salmonverse #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldA youngish woman is standing near the book drop-off slot, holding her arms behind her back. She has a sticker on her chest with an image of an owl reading a book. Above it is her name, Rochelle, and below the owl is the word VOLUNTEER. // "What was that?" Dave asks. #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersI place the stick between my hands, and start to spin it back and forth. I have to press down hard, which causes my hands to slide down, which means I have to stop every couple of seconds to go back up to start at the top again. There has to be a better way. #NickFishermanLingers
Fake ConversationMe: "I always feel fatter on Tuesdays and Thursday. I don't understand why. It's so consistent." // My mother: "Well, do you do anything different on those days, maybe a different diet?" // Me: "No, nothing's different at all. I just consistently wear a different pair of pants."
Story Quote"I’ve attached my first draft of the letter so you can tell me what you think about it—maybe proofread it, and scribble in some notes in the margins. Don’t show it to anyone yet, send it back, and then I’ll make my final decision. I’m still not sure." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus Shield"Mu-metal," Rochelle repeats. "It's an alloy. That's all I remember about it from school, and that it has cool properties, but I don't remember what they are." // "Do you think I could ever maybe…buy a box made out of the stuff?" // She shrugs. "Let's go check." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersWe have two people here. What I need is for Dutch to hold onto the top of the spinny stick with a rock or something, and keep it from falling down. My hands might still slip, but at least I can let go, and it will be waiting for me once I regain my position. #NickFishermanLingers
Fake ConversationMinister: "And you? Would you like to share how you've seen God work in mysterious ways?" // Fourteen-Year-Old Me: "Yes. Uh…yeah, hi, yeah, I used to be mad at him for giving me allergies, but it turned out to be a great excuse for why there are so many tissues in my trashcan."
Story Quote"My suggestions are very minor, so it’s up to you whether to accept them. That also goes for whether to even send it or not. I won’t cloud your decision any further. It’s not like people will be mad at me if you decline. Both worlds will keep turning." #correspondence #fishquotes
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Citrus ShieldRochelle leads him over to a computer that's kind of in a secluded area. It's not hidden, but no one else is around. "I'm going to need to see your ID." // He doesn't have any to speak of, and doesn't really belong here. // "I'm kidding, Mr. Seidel." // "Wait, huh?" #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"The beach!" Dutch exclaims. "There must be a rock over there that's how we need it. Wouldn't you think rocks that lived their lives underwater would be better to hold a stick down?" // I shrug. I really should have paid more attention to Cricket's lessons. #NickFishermanLingers
NanostoryI was kicked out of my women's studies class in college. They didn't want us to learn all their secrets back then. I mean, they still don't, but now they know how to have secret classes just for them too. Was this meant to be funny, Past!Nick?
Story Quote"In the past, a fair market encouraged healthy competition—which ideally makes things better for consumers—but certain legislative changes led to loopholes in regulatory oversight. They weren’t competing anymore, they were fighting. They were killing." #correspondence #fishquotes
20
Citrus Shield"It's stitched on your shirt," Rochelle explains. // Dave looks down. He's wearing a white tunic and white pants, both with blue trim. The Concierge provided them. He didn't look closely. He is now. "Why the hell did she do that?" // "Who? The Concierge?" // "WHAT?" #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman LingersDutch runs off to find a rock. I keep trying to spark a flame, confident that it will never work. He comes back and asks me to close my eyes. I comply, because I'm exhausted. Before he can tell me to open them again, I can hear, and feel the heat of, a fire. #NickFishermanLingers
Random Nothing. @ZacharyLevi are you coming to the toga party? Don't bother answering. I'm sure you're at a Nazi rally, or a lynching, or whatever disgusting things you King Dumpster worshipers do. I wrote the original referential "joke" before I knew the real you. You can go kick rocks.
Story Quote"Thinking on it now, though, maybe there was something between them. Maybe she was never a babysitter at all, but a girlfriend. They didn’t tell me her last name, so I can’t look her up, and I’m afraid to ask. I have never otherwise known him to date." #correspondence #fishquotes
21
Citrus ShieldShe smirks. "You think you're the first time traveler to stroll in here wearing standard dress of guests who stay in The Constant?" // "Are you one of us?" // She shakes her head. "No, but I knew one when I was a kid. It intrigued me. I started looking for others." #CitrusShield
Nick Fisherman Lingers"How did you do that?" I ask, watching the fire grow larger. // Dutch presents a silver lighter. "I'm guessing that Leonard left it behind? He doesn't want us to die out here." // "No, and he would have broken the rules. We can never tell anyone." "Agreed." #NickFishermanLingers
Fake ConversationMe: "What the hell is this? I didn't ask for this." // My dumb assistant: "Yes, you did. You said, 'get me a Coca Cola from Florida.'" // Me: "No, I said get me Pensacola. Pensacola, Florida. You were supposed to buy the whole city for me. Now Elon's gonna get his bid in first."
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