Aphelion

The story flow was mostly unbroken and easy to follow. The flow was interrupted only once, in the describing of the bath in the hot springs. IMO, this scene didn’t move or contribute to the story. <br>I really thought the flashback to the hot springs added a layer of depth to the characterization. ...

I never heard of this particular guideline, either.   <br>It was from Strange Horizons.  Farsector also has a strong set of guidelines. Atraxes the Bold broke rules 9a and 9c.  LOL.<br><br><br>http://www.farsector.com/about.htm#submissions1<br><br>http://www.strangehorizons.com/guidelines/fiction-c...

I had a few comments but then they were all swept away by the ending.  An interesting blend of SF and F.  Kids are so troublesome!<br><br>The last sentence prods at us, leaves us wondering are they or are they not human?  Was the first 3/4 of the story a metaphorical representation of arthropod cult...

Most of the comments have focused on the philosphical points, which are important, but I think very personal.  Watching Macbeth fall is just as curious as watching Arthur rise.  I think if J.E. wants to have Dennis be admirable or at least pitiable as the board suggests his springs into cathartic mu...