Early New Year wishes and an update

Sorry, everyone. I suddenly came down with the flu, and with the pre-New Year housecleaning on top of that, there's a lot to do and I'm feeling awful, so I'm temporarily cutting back to two chapters.

I'm feeling completely groggy right now. Once I get through this, I'll immediately go back to the previous update schedule.

Finally, let me wish you all a happy New Year in advance. I wish all of you and your families good health. Please, please take precautions.