And so now I see where the "swimming in research" comment came from! Holy Cow. I really love good sci-fi, emphasis on the "sci" and this is just great, the tech is very satisfying and...scary. Yikes! Couldn't catch a break indeed!

I also truly adore the way you use Fur, as metaphor and object of sympathy. I was so afraid you were going to do something horrible to the little guy (have Ten freak and kill him off or something) but the way you use him is just so moving. I've been looking at my daughter's stuffed puppy (one that moves and barks) with odd thoughts all day long!