Thanks to all who've read, and additional thanks to all who've posted. The next part (with the verdict) is coming up soon.
I knew that the subject of this story would engender some controversy, and that not everyone would like it. No problem. Each of us has a right to our own ideas, preferences, and opinions, and I respect that right. However, if I am asked a question in a feedback response, I feel that I should respond. If someone makes a statement with which I disagree, I believe I have just as much right to respond as the person who made the original statement had to say whatever he or she said, as long as no one gets personal.
And no one has gotten personal in these threads, for which I thank all of you. Your courtesy is duly noted and greatly appreciated, even when we have disagreed.
I am currently writing an epilogue which will address a couple of the questions which have been asked in the various feedback threads but won't be answered by the end of chapter twenty. Thank you for your constructive comments and those very questions, which have made a definite impact on this story even as it was being posted.
