You know, I'd probably have more insightful things to say if you didn't have a knack for posting new installments when I'm tired and on my way to bed. *g*

Damned good stuff, as always. Also? You handle the medical neep so well, it's one of the things I really like about this series. And I see you worked out your interstellar distances quite nicely, brava.

Pursuant to my comment on the previous installment, I totally think 'slugectomy' should be a real word. *g*