The readers have spoken, both with their emails and with their votes. The ending satisfied no one, least of all me.
On the other hand, there is one less unfinished and abandoned story on SOL. That has to be a good thing.
This story began with a lot of promise, but I inadvertently painted myself into a corner. I no longer, (if I ever did) have the talent or energy to attempt a complete rewrite.
I can offer an apology to those unhappy and disappointed readers who feel let down by my admittedly poor ending. In consolation to them I can only offer that I will discontinue posting stories once The Find is finalized.
I'm old, ill and extremely tired, and probably was on an ego trip when I decided I had the necessary stamina left to clear out my two last remaining unfinished stories.
Sorry again,
Openbook