Yep, the first meaning of "the thing with feathers" has made its way into the text. More are forthcoming.

the mythology geek fan who referenced "The Judgment of Paris" on his show (I keeled over in a fog of geek bliss/ had a nerdgasm when that aired).

Oh. OH. Um. Mguh. I went all flaily at that bit too -- which is why -- well, I can't say anything specific yet -- but oh my various Gods, you are going to love chapter thirteen. Don't ask what that means. I will say nothing more.

I'm glad you liked the use of Stephen's faith, too. As I've said in above comments (among many, many other things), I wish it came up more.