#sci fi stories

[stone-cold-groove]

Meanwhile, back at the 1939 New York World’s Fair...

[just-b-wilde]

OMG, this movie was absolutely brilliant and Sam was absolutely phenomenal. This was a great one man show.

[headlamprey]

Question, does anybody know any cyberpunk (no not the game) horror short stories written by NON white people? I would desperately love to read them. It gets annoying listening to white guys idea of a dystopian world... Like there are some great stories out there for sure but I NEED me some more perspectives please!

[t-lane-writes]

WIP: Black Wings, Chapter Three (snippet)

WIP: Black Wings Genre: science-fiction Tag line: Humans’ efforts to terraform a planet are thwarted when���some decide to save intelligent indigenous life.  POV characters: Kenaed, Zoe Irene, Mattan Nuada, Siesell Keeva Snippet from: Chapter Three, Kenaed’s PoV

First Chapter

#.

“I know.” He cut her off. Then, “Sorry,” he muttered. 

“What’s going on with you?” 

“Nothing.” 

Angeline knew him best. They had worked together for six-and-a-half years now. Patrolled the hostile terrain outside the first terraformed zone, at first as part of the Explorer mission. Then Mattan Nuada, Angeline’s partner, organized this thing. 

The planet – they called it Angerona, same as the spaceship that had brought their ancestors here, seventy years ago – the planet was fixed for terraforming by Heritage. A powerful interstellar organization which was searching for new systems and planets suitable for human kind to settle. They prepared those planets, changed their soil, water, and air, made the environments survivable for humans. Then, they took people who wanted to leave the planet they had lived on – usually because the planet was slowly losing its human-life-supporting characteristics – and transported them, in stasis, to their new home. 

The cost of such operation was huge. Enormous. Kenaed didn’t even fully understand what it would take to be allowed to re-settle and he doubted anyone in Angerona could comprehend it. Only the richest, the best-connected citizens of dying planets could afford it. The rest was doomed to eventually die along with their worlds. 

Angerona ancestors refused to agree to that fate. They had learned about this world, packed their belongings onto the spaceship and took up a grueling journey through the vast expanses of space. Five hundred years later the children of the children of those who had started it, had landed on the surface. Their ancestors were heroes and the people here had a home now, thanks to them. 

According to the interplanetary laws, though, they were trespassers. 

That was a disturbing thought. One that might send Kenaed into a spiral of fear and anger and memories he couldn’t handle. 

He had to find a distraction. 

“Are we there yet?” he breathed out. 

Angeline turned to look at him through the visor of her helmet, troubled by the tension in his voice. 

“The next spot is just over that ridge.” 

[...] 

“Here we are,” Angeline announced. “Are you going out, or should I?” 

Kenaed was ready to go, but he hesitated with his palm on the handle. Outside, the heat would be even more unbearable. 

“Is it because of that girl of yours?” Angeline asked.  

“What? Who?” He turned back to her. “Zoe?” 

“Weren’t you supposed to meet her kid last sundown? Did you? That why you’re upset?” 

He and Zoe had been seeing each other for almost a boulder-a-round, and she decided it was a good moment to introduce him to her daughter. She didn’t want to wait longer, because, as she said, Maisie’s opinion was a make-it or break-it. 

“Yeah, I met her,” Kenaed nodded, “but-- It was fine, there was nothing-- Maisie is a sweet girl. If a four-years-old can be sweet, that is, she’s pretty rebellious.” The memory made him smile. “No, I’m-- It was okay.” 

[...]

“I better go,” he forced out. He didn’t like where this conversation with Angeline was going. He trusted her, unreservedly, but he couldn’t talk to her now. 

The outside wasn’t as oppressive as he’d expected. The sun had just passed the zenith, so those were the hottest hours, with temperatures rising close to forty degrees. The insulating layers of the EV suits and photochromatic visor cheated his receptors to some degree, making it feel like it was just above twenty. Spending hours inside this rubber-and-polyester tin-can, breathing the filtered air, that was what made it uncomfortable. 

Kenaed pulled the containers from the back compartment of the cruiser and, following the indications on his sleeve-screen, found the right spot. Just as he was about to kneel and start digging, he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. 

At the same time Angeline screamed in his earpiece, “Keen, don’t move!” 

He froze. 

#.

Tagging @hithelleth, @echo-bleu, @drippingmoon, @did-i-do-this-write

Thank you for reading and for your previous comments and reblogs *huggles*.

If anyone else reads and wants to receive updates on this story, please let me know and I'll tag you too. ;)

[thursdayisbetterthanfriday]

The Invincible

Studio: Starward Industries, 11 Bit Studios Year: 2023 Inspiration: The Invincible, Stanisław Lem

“...now his desire was no longer merely to return and report what he had found out about their companions' deaths but to request that this planet be left alone in the future... Not everything, everywhere, is intended for us.”

[cafeleningrad]

Looks like so many US media outlets are currently in a frenzy about the potential existence of UFOs and aliens. I remain skeptical on how hellbent some of the editorials are about the idea of “aliens being kept away from us”. Not only because of the potential of conspiracy theories but also because find it weird that aliens should land only land in the USA of all places as if there aren’t other places on earth suitable to land an UFO unnoticed. Like, imagine the aliens would land somewhere in the Gobi desert and they go absolutely wild about camels or wild ass, and find at every corner a cool fossil. The first people they meet aren’t men in black but some paleontologists. Or they land in Siberia, no humans to be seen for hours. But then they finally do they get stuffed with the best baked goods and booze, and are pushed into a sauna, and then into a freezing lake, rinse and repeat. Local authorities just think their neighbours are at their usual. Or aliens landing in Columbia, and all the local grannies are rushing to make sure these guys get as much good food because after this long journey they must be starving...! The aliens don’t get to ask “bring us to your leader” questions because they either have their nutrition insertion body part full or get asked thousands of questions about their personal life first. Or aliens landing somewhere in in the Swiss alps but the local police would fine the hell out of them because they didn’t not properly park their vehicle, and by the way that vehicle is parked in a nature conservation zone, extra fine. The right wing parties get furious about foreigners now even coming from outer space.

If you’ve any fiction story about the aliens landing anywhere else but modern day USA feel, I’m all reading eyes.

[emlinden]

A new sci-fi flashfic, Purple Lightning, is now available to read for free over on my website! Follow Siri, a space warrior fighting to overthrow the evil Ryxarri empire, as she does what she does best...

[giuliopozzali]

Black the series: a new sci-fi series from Stefano Labbia is superb!

Stefano Labbia's latest comic series, "Black," has emerged as a groundbreaking venture that is poised to transform the science fiction comics genre. This visually captivating series delves into the adventures of the morally ambiguous anti-hero, Black, as he navigates a dystopian galaxy teeming with peril and chaos. The intricate storyline is woven with complex themes, compelling characters, and heart-pounding action sequences, leaving readers enthralled and on the edge of their seats!

At the core of the series is Black, a mercenary hailed for his unwavering determination to accomplish tasks, regardless of the toll it may take. He embodies a multifaceted persona, flawed yet compelling, unafraid to delve into the murky waters of his craft. Black finds an unlikely companion in Sally, a resilient young girl exuding invincibility and exceptional strength. Serving as Black's moral compass, Sally guides him through the labyrinth of challenging choices he encounters.

Alongside Black is his loyal sidekick, Josh, a witty space fox who injects humor and quirkiness into the series. Despite his adept combat skills, Josh often finds himself entangled in precarious situations due to his penchant for untimely jests. Despite this, his unwavering loyalty to Black stands unshaken.

Enter Raibin, a resolute woman with striking white hair, entwined in a poignant unrequited love tale with Black. Raised as a slave under the tyrannical rule of the Green Pirates, a notorious band of space marauders, Raibin finds solace in Black, her savior turned partner. Her harrowing past adds depth to the narrative, underscoring her steadfast allegiance to Black.

Through its well-crafted characters, "Black" examines profound themes such as morality, loyalty, and the repercussions of warfare. The interstellar conflict has wrought devastation across the cosmos, impacting each character uniquely. Black and Sally share traumatic pasts as survivors of the Silver and Gold interstellar wars, compelling them to flee their homes in their formative years. Raibin's haunting enslavement experience continues to reverberate through her actions, further enriching the narrative tapestry.

Labbia's storytelling prowess shines brightly in "Black," as he expertly engulfs readers within a meticulously constructed universe brimming with intricacies. The amalgamation of riveting action, compelling humor, and nail-biting suspense ensures an immersive reading experience.

In essence, "Black" stands as a remarkable addition to the science fiction graphic novel landscape. Labbia's creative vision has birthed a compelling world and a diverse cast of characters that resonate deeply with readers long after the final page is turned. The allure of "Black" lies in its innovative storytelling, rich character dynamics, and thought-provoking exploration of human complexities – a saga that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.

[lizanneyoung97]

ARC REVIEW: A LOVE BEYOND THE STARS BY JENNIFER CHIPMAN

⭐⭐⭐⭐

TROPES

Grumpy/Sunshine

Forbidden Relationship

One Cave

Age Gap (10 Years)

Dual POV

As someone trying to read more sci-fi, this was a great combo of what I’ve been wanting in a book recently. A romance between a captain and a head pilot on the maiden voyage of a new ship as they head to galaxies unknown? Yes, please.

While we do get to watch Captain Sylas and Pilot Aurelia fall in love and think everyone is oblivious, we also get to watch as they come together to try and unravel what happened to Aurealia’s father so many years ago. I’m really happy that she found that closure because it allowed her to be more open with herself and what she wants. Their coming together is ultimately therapeutic for both of them I think, since it forces them to think about why they had previous notions and how they can overcome that with each other.

In keeping with the sci-fi elements, there’s trouble, there’s exploration of an unnamed planet, there are adorable alien creatures that I need a plush of. You certainly never forget that everything is taking place while on a five year space mission in the best way.

Honestly, this entire book scratched an itch in my brain that’s been needing it for a while. The pacing was exactly what the story needed, the epilogue and extended epilogue were perfect, and you can’t help but root for them, even if federation law makes things a bit murky. 

Thank you so much to the author for the eARC!

📘 A Love Beyond the Stars releases on June 28, 2024!

[humanoidhistory]

Albert Magarian cartoon for Amazing Stories, December 1941.

[saint-vagrant]

Sab stops running.

mine, he/him

[andyoullhearitagain]

Literally they could have stopped making Deep Space Nine and made seven seasons of this show and I would have been happy.

[just-b-wilde]

I would like to write a book. You know, more than just fanfiction.

I have an idea for a science fiction story. And to be honest, the main characters could be inspired by Aidan and Elly/Rachel's character a little bit (and sure Sam and Bryce's looks). Because I love to write about them.

But I still don't know if I should try it or not.

[whereserpentswalk]

People don't realize how liminal it is to be a time traveler. How you don't ever really feel like you're in the time you are. Even when you're in your own time, everything is off, your coat was something you bought in interwar France, the book you're reading on the train is from a bookstore you had to visit in Victorian London, even your necklace was given to you by a Neolithic shaman, from a culture the rest of the world can never know. You find yourself acting strange even when in the present, much less in the past you have to work in.

You remember meeting a eunuch in 10th century China, and having him be one of the only people smart and observant enough to realize you were from a diffrent time. You could talk honestly with him, though still you couldn't reveal too much about your time. And it was still so strange hearing him talk casually about work and mention plotting assassinations. You're not allowed to but you still visit him sometimes.

You remember that the few times you were allowed to tell someone everything it was tragic. You knew a young woman who lived in Pompeii, who you had gotten close to, a few days before she would inevitably die. On your last day there you looked into her eyes, knowing soon they'd be stone and ash, that the beauty of her hair would be washed away by burning magma. And you hugged her, and told her that you wanted her to be safe, and told her she was wonderful and that you wanted her to be comfortable and happy. And you let her tongue know the joy of 21st century chocolate, and her eyes see the beauty of animation, knowing she deserved to have those joys, knowing it wouldn't matter soon. And you hugged her the last time, and told her she deserved happiness. And when you left without taking her it was like you were killing her yourself.

You want to take home everyone you're attached to. There's a college student you befriended in eighteen fifties Boston. And you can't help but see him try to solve problems you know humanity is centuries away from solving. And you just want to tell him. And it's not just that, the way he talked about the books and plays he likes, his sense of humor. There's so many people you want him to meet.

You feel the same way about a young woman you met on a viking age longship. She tells stories to her fellow warriors and traders, stories that will never fully get written down, stories that she tells so uniquely and so well. She has so many great ideas. You want so dearly to take her to somewhere she can share her stories, or where she can take classes with other writers, where she can be somewhere safe instead of being out at sea. She'll talk about wanting to be able to do something, or meet people, and you know you're so close to being able to take her, but you never can, unless she accidently finds out way too much then you can't.

You remember the longship that you met that young storyteller on. You were there before, two years ago for you, ten years later for the people on it. The young woman who told you stories wasn't there ten years later, you had been told why then but you only realize now, her uncle, who ran the ship, had been one of the first people to convert to Christianity in his nation. He killed her, either for not converting or for sleeping with women, you're not sure, but he killed her, and bragged about it when you met him ten years later.

You talk to the storyteller on the longship, ask her about the myths you're there to ask her about, the myths that she loves to tell. You look into her eyes knowing it's probably less then a year until her uncle takes her life. You ask her if you think that those who die of murder go to Valhalla. She tells you she hopes not, she doesn't see Valhalla as a gift but as a duty, she hopes for herself to go to Hel, where she wouldn't have to fight anymore. You slip and admit you're talking about her, telling her that you hope that's where she goes when she's killed. You hope to yourself you'll be forced to take her to the twenty first century, you're tempted even to make it worse, you want to have ruined her enough to be able to save her.

[mollyanncarruth-blog]

"Looking Over The Cliff" is a collection of literary episodes that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Each story transitions into a different genre in the subsequent book. The first issue, titled "Supernatural," explores a world where the impossible becomes possible.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/looking-over-the-cliff-william-levert/1146283478?ean=9798331474386

[trans-ralsei]