I went back an reread the OP's post. It seems like the firm is looking for a consultant, and the OP makes it clear that is not him. I agree with the post that you contact one or two close associates and let them know you are available to answer a question, i.e. 'where did I leave the coffee filters' but only if they are friends you feel you would like a continued relationship with.
The idea of setting outrageous conditions on your time is to do what many contractors do when they really don't want the job. They don't tell you no, they just bid it at such a ridiculous price no one would except it, and if they did, they are really going to laugh all the way to the bank.