Yep!
Yep!
I think this book is a prime example of editorial allowing writers to play fast and loose with continuity. If it leads to good stories that are enjoyable, all for it. In this book's instance, it helps that it takes place in a loosely and undefined some time in the near past.
Re: Kara... at first was rather ambivalent about the outfit design, but I'm really starting to dig the yellow highlights around the arms and shoulders.