The Aftermath

Selena's eyes widen. Her pupils are unnaturally large in the dim light of the bar, her breathing rapid in that incredible dress. Spin has brought a thousand silver bullets; Urfé has brought a gleaming rapier; both are deadly and would etch a diamond, brought pooled in the palm.

"Fathers and Daughters (1) (2) (3)". "Off-White Wedding". "Evidence of Betrayal". "Paper Slip".

"The Sidewalks of Old New York".

Selena, shaking herself as if from a dream, clears her throat and steps forward, her voice warm. "Ladies and gentlemen, patrons at the bar and bystanders, distinguished guests? May I ask, please, for a round of applause for our duellists? Quality such as this comes our way but rarely; let us catch it as it flies."

And stands, and cheers with the rest.

Joining her, Alexis raises her glass. "As always, WE the readers are the winners. Very well done."

Selena confides to Alexis, "I have just had it pointed out to me that in the Code Duello rule 25, should seconds disagree, they may exchange shots themselves. Something to keep in mind, perhaps?"

A disinterested observer announces, "The Prestigious Mint of Graphic Sex Ink is pleased to display this handsome medallion to commemorate the ASSD Dueling Flashers Event of 2002.

"The inestimable Mr. Nicholas Urfé brought quality to this event. Unfortunately, DrSpin brought both quality and quantity."

"Never bring a sword to a gunfight," said Mark the engraver in grave tones.

Acknowledgements

The Fish Tank is an interactive writer's/reader's discussion panel for the purpose of improving the art of writing through positive criticism and positive reinforcement. The Fish Tank is hosted by award-winning author Desdmona.

Nicholas Urfé, DrSpin (Neil Anthony), Alexis Siefert, and Shon Richards are also award-winning authors, some of whose works can also be found at http://www.ruthiesclub.com (Ruthie's Club, a pay Website). Selena Jardine is destined to become an award winner as well.

Your humble host, Gary Jordan, is an award-making author, pleased and proud at being permitted to bring these stories and this event to you in this format. All of the material presented is available through the Google Groups Search Engine at ASSD - but it was a pleasure to gather it into one location for you.