Starhawk, in not having read your story (connection limitations) I can offer an un-biased opinion to your questions.
1) Sometimes a story can draw interest as revelations are given on a 'need to know' basis. 'After action' explanations are a good plot twist.
2) One picture is worth a thousand words. You don't need a thousand words to describe death. Everyone who reads the story will walk away with their own images in their mind. That should be enough to just keep the descriptions of gore to a minimal.
3) As you stated yourself, if you keep the tech consistent, it will not draw attention from the story line. After all your not writing a tech manual.
4) Again a 'need to know' basis for the purpose of the story line. If there's religion involved then there is usually a God involved in some form. Keep it simple and straight forward, all people realize that there are many people in the world who worship different Gods and have different beliefs. As long as you're not degrading any form of worship, don't be afraid to write about religion. After all, more wars have been fought in the name of religions then any other reason.
5) Can't answer that, but if your looking for feedback here, then you have the right attitude and are on the right track. Keep looking for answers because "The Truth is out there"
