Nothing humans can touch goes unmodified. — James S. A. Corey

The dysfunctions and idiosyncrasies of childhood became the self-evident norms of adulthood.

“We knew that, though.”

“We suspected it.”

“Do we know it now?”

“We suspect it harder,” Elvi said. “We’re scientists. We only know things until someone shows us we’re wrong.”

“Explain.”

“Short version,” Ochida said, “light went faster.”

Admiral Milan scratched his neck. “Did the word explain change meanings and no one told me?”