Douglas A. Reeves wrote:

David Homerick wrote:

UkyouKwnji@aol.com wrote:

The Bargain
by Ukyou Kuonji


"Could you do this without making any change to myself,

whatsoever?

Because I think I'm pretty content as I am."  The devil shrugged.
Sure, why not?  But then, what is she asking for?

"Oh, good.  What I want, then... is to be made the poorest,
stupidest, most miserable, and most selfish person on earth."

Why would Kasumi wish for this?  How is it "selfless?"   "I wish I
were poor and miserable and stupid (but I don't want to be any
different)" doesn't even make sense.

Oh, yes it does... because everyone else becomes less poor (more
rich),
less miserable (happier), and less stupid (more intelligent) than
Kasumi, since Kasumi can't be changed...

OH.  Tricky.

I guess I just wasn't thinking of Kasumi as being crafty or clever.
 

Think about the implications of that.

Wait!  Wait!  There's a hole!

***

The Devil waved his hand.  "Certainly!  Your wish is granted."

Kasumi blinked.  "Oh!  Well, thank you." she turned to go.

"Before you leave," asked the Devil, "would you agree that you are
totally unchanged?"

"Well... well, yes, I am!  Thank you for asking."

"You're quite welcome.  Have a lovely day."

Kasumi stepped outside.  It WAS a lovely day.  The birds sang, and the
sun shone.  None of the usual city noises or smells assaulted her as she
walked along the sidewalk.  She smiled.

Then her footsteps slowed.  She began to look about her uncertainly.

"Where IS everyone..?"

***

-- David.