Think about this logically. If it were simply the 1st 10 without regard for quality or substance, the challenge would amount to nothing more than a simple race to a very low-quality finish line, and that is an end that no one wishes to be part of. Instead, the intent was always to select the first 10 "highest caliber" entries so as to bring out the very best in everyone participating. It is an artistic challenge - not a race - and nothing is rigged. I'm certain Pechiche will emphasize this logic in future challenges of a similar sort. Thanks again for your concerns @metalmag25.