I was asked does a person need to read The Atlantis Crystal to read your story? Or does it stand alone? Answer - I totally rewrote the story. Within the next few chapters you will see where it begins to vary from the original. I simply mention the original story because A) I believe in giving credit where credit is due, and B) I can absolutely guarantee that if I don't mention it, somebody is going to complain that I am plagiarizing a story!
Proof that somebody is going to notice came very quickly! I learned what happened to Robber Baron when I received the following email from him:
"I'm not dead yet. I quit writing when I discovered I had cancer and began treatments. Now, the cancer appears to be in remission, but I have lost the will to write, though I think about it every now and then. You should have inquired of me or Lazeez before rewriting and continuing my story. However, I am interested in finding out where you take this story. I demand that you recognize me as coauthor. Once that is done, I will be happy to allow you to continue it."
Fair enough. My apologies to Robber Baron. I made the request and Lazeez has listed him as co-author. I sincerely hope his health continues to improve. He also wishes it known that:
"Please state that I have no further part in the story and that all the changes and additions are your work alone."
Enough said.