I was working on my latest project in my laboratory when I heard shooting from the ground level of my flat. I was expecting guests to celebrate Bastille Day. When I looked out of the window, I noticed that the flaming torches storming toward my house were not part of a parade. It was the anti-Dissenters taking their revenge for our celebration of the French people's victory over tyranny two years ago. A flame was thrown into my window and landed on some chemicals. I ran from the room. The exploisons caused me to run faster. As I reached the safety of the outdoors, I could see my house burning and crackling. It was gone, all gone! Only ashes would be where my house once stood.
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Anne Hofmann and Jessica Bachman of Miami University of Ohio