The Numbered was written for a Flash Fiction competition in the space of 55 hours. The rules were:

• A max. of 500 words.

• Your story must include, word for word, ALL of the following SIX descriptions (describing whatever you want):

• SHINY, SILVER

• COLD AND GREASY

• SCRATCHED AND WEATHER-WORN

• SWEET AND PUNGENT

• INK-STAINED

• SHRILL, PIERCING

• One of these six descriptions MUST appear in the first sentence of your story. (The rest, wherever you like.)

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