The decision wasn't reached because we were wedded to the idea of enforcing the rules ... it's entirely a question of fairness. How many other stories might improve if the writers were given a more generous word count? If we allow those two to slip through, how can we deny anyone else who might plead for a few more words? If we allow them to edit or resubmit, how can we deny other people who might want to do the same? (People actually have, this month and in previous months, asked if they could edit their stories or submit others that are closer to the theme. They were told no. How would they feel if others were allowed to do either or both of those things now.)
And if we were to grant all of those requests, what was the point of the 75 word limit in the first place?
I, personally, feel very badly that there were misunderstandings, even though the rules are clearly stated. I wish this hadn't happened, and that we hadn't had to make a decision.
