>> Yay! Poor Armelle - the culture shock must be awful. <<

The culture shock is horrible. The loneliness is horrible. The PTSD and traumatic grief are horrible. She's miserable right now.

>> But she's adapting; she'll get there. <<

Yes, and I think ultimately it will be easier for Armelle to get along in the Lacuna than it was for Bottleneck and Embry to get by in neurovariant culture.

>> Embry's going to be fine as soon as they figure out how to make larger parts of the station childproof, <<

Agreed. They really need to concentrate on that, because the station isn't at all safe for children yet, but they need children in order to continue their society.

>> and she's among people who understand her now. That must be huge. <<

Sooth. It changes everything. Growing up without peers tends to be miserable and lonely.

>> It's nice to see Bexley and Falconwing, however briefly. <<

I'm glad you like them. I just posted "Valence" too, which is all about them.

>> And thanks for the WikiHow on avoiding meltdowns. <<

You're welcome. I'm glad I could help. Really it comes down to knowing yourself, knowing your triggers, managing your energy mindfully, having some soothers available in case you need them ... and having the freedom to choose what you will and won't do based on your resources. Most meltdowns are caused either by ignorance, or someone not caring if they hurt you.

>> I've been under a lot of stress in the last few years; as you say, meltdowns are scary as heck when you're not used to them and don't know what's going on. I'm learning, but it's been rough. <<

:( I hope things get better for you soon.

You may also find "Backstopping" helpful if you have supportive people around.