[Chapter 3] Popeye the Astronaut Man

Now that Popeye has entered the public domain, I am writing a science-fiction story starring the sailor in an entirely new adventure. This story will be told over the next thirteen weeks exclusively available to members. If you’re not a member, now’s a great time to join.

I plan to self-publish the entire work this summer. In the meantime, here’s Chapter Three: A Fish Outta Time.

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Popeye stood on the curb feeling like a lost puppy. Sleek, bright vehicles zipped overhead. Their passengers barely gave him a second glance. He had to get his bearings and find a place to sit down and relax. He also felt a gnawing hunger growing in his stomach.

He saw the words "Taxi Stand" on the floating sign overhead. He hoped a cabbie might be able to give him some recommendations. He stepped forward and raised a hand, hoping this gesture still held a familiar meaning. A moment later, a vehicle that resembled a giant bat swooped down and landed gracefully in front of him.

The door slid open with a hiss, revealing an ugly looking Dylid. It had scaly green skin, a long snout filled with sharp teeth, and eerie yellow eyes.

"Need a lift, fella?" the creature growled monotonously.

Popeye hopped in and was surprised by how comfortable the seat was. "Aye, that I do. Just point me in the direction of the nearest diner."

As he closed the door he braced himself for a familiar jolt of acceleration. To his surprise, the tai rose smoothly in the air. If he wasn't looking out the window he wouldn't have believed he was moving at all.

"You look surprised," the creature teased. "It's like you haven't seen a flyin' taxi before."

Popeye shook his head, marveling at the sight of the city beneath him. Buildings stretched up to the sky like shimmering stalagmites, and vehicles of all shapes and sizes zipped through the air like a swarm of metallic bees.

"This is somethin' else," he muttered.

He glanced up at the driver with a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Say, friend, you wouldn't happen to be related to an old sailor friend of mine? You seem to share his prominent nose."

The driver's eyes narrowed. "Excuse me?" he hissed, his voice laced with annoyance.