Oh wow, so the Uncle Evan is in on all this? Or at least has self-preservation somewhere involved? Darn. Interesting to see the development in Rick and Az's relationship. D Keep up the good work!

Yeah, that's tough logic to ignore. Again, I really like the personal growth they are both experiencing, while you weave in more plot elements. I a little surprised but how accepting Rick is of Az in his life long term, but maybe that's because his instincts have accepted her? Thanks again for the update!

Great change of pace in this chapter. I like how the personal, non-mystery elements are brought forward here, especially this acknowledgment that there is something else between them ready to be explored. Thanks so much for the update.

Apparently, I missed this chapter somehow. Great job, with the timing, I really liked how Rick was able to get some useful info from Az before she lost control and their interplay at the end of the chapter was hilarious. Great dialogue as always. I love being in Rick's head. Thanks for the update; can't wait to go read the next chapter!

Great new chapter! It's fun to see Az and Rick progressing to semi-normal conversations and I like the new developments in plot. Thanks for the update.

Yes, some action! I hope this is just a little teaser to some bigger stuff. I read Chapter 17 and then saw that little arrow at the bottom and literally scream, "OH MY GOD, ANOTHER ONE!"

Az's voice seemed a little bit weird in the last chapter. A lot more proper than she normally speaks, but maybe that was on purpose? And I'm glad to see her crazy isn't gone ;)

Nooooo! Cliffhanger! :(

Okay, obviously Az doesn't think her dad's in charge of this master plot, but he has to be somewhat involved, right? And I'm guessing there's SOMETHING else she knows that she isn't sharing. Thanks for the update. I'm enjoying the new twists!

Hey I don't believe in coincidences either. Wonder if this one is just that. Who could be making the test-tube shifters, has the character come up yet? Hmm.

Loving the constant updates!

I always have so much fun reading Rick's thoughts and enjoying the characters that sometimes the plot elements take a little longer for me to focus on! So we have someone growing genetically enhanced fake shifters, and they are probably using a whole bunch of forbidden magic to help. And we don't know who, but her dad has to be involved, right? Okay, we're good to go. Thanks for the amazing update, as always!

Test tube shifter? For what? Is it a war? Oh dear. And Rick's kinda ticking me off, forcing Az to do revolting things. -_- I get it's necessary but geez buddy, no need to get all high and mighty. ;D

I love Az and Rick. They have such a fun dynamic, and it's still great to see the story from his perspective. I love the mystery as well, haven't a clue as to the evil mastermind. Thanks so much for posting!

Thanks for updating! I think the dullsville conservative guys can be a suspect, too. Guess it didn't occur to Rick or Az that things aren't always what they seem,

Lovely chapter as always. I just love how distinct all your characters are. They feel so real. And found some typos! Only because I was hanging onto every word you wrote though ;)

"She stops and doesn't pick the conversation pack up" (back up? it's like a Freudian slip)
"emotional fragile" (emotionally fragile?)

Hmm is Evan to be trusted though? The rite of yulaga must be his doing or someone he knows what with the forced laugh. Can't wait till the next chapter. I love this one, laughed so many times!