Short Story for GISHWHES

Since Saturday (August 9, 2014) was the last day of GISHWHES for this year–and due to popular demand (okay, my sister-in-law Misti Williamson asked for it)–here is the 140 word short story I donated to the one team who asked for it:

First Contact
by R.P. Nettelhorst

Lost, hungry. And his dad would ground him over the dented warp coil. But at least they weren’t pressing charges.

An ugly local pushing a shopping cart stopped and lifted a purple toy up to its face. “Do you know him, Elopus?” The universal translator descrambled its words. “Is he one of your relatives?”

Loton smiled. “I’m looking for a good restaurant.”

“Misha, Queen of England, at your service.” Misha bowed extravagantly. “And this would be my loyal retainer, Elopus.” It patted the furry stuffed animal.

“A robot?”

“When a mommy octopus and a daddy elephant drink lots of whiskey—” began Misha.

“I just need some food.”

“Don’t eat out much—got my crown jewels, but cash is tight.” It rummaged through its cart. “Like a scepter?” It held up a bent coat hanger. “All yours if you’re buying.”

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About R.P. Nettelhorst

I'm married with three daughters. I live in southern California and I'm the interim pastor at Quartz Hill Community Church. I have written several books. I spent a couple of summers while I was in college working on a kibbutz in Israel. In 2004, I was a volunteer with the Ansari X-Prize at the winning launches of SpaceShipOne. Member of Society of Biblical Literature, American Academy of Religion, and The Authors Guild
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