Well, it was an inspiredly interesting scenario--seems like you and the contest made good partners: the contest put the notion of buses in your head, and then BANG, you ran with it, weaving in history and archaeology and politics--and it came out as something totally unique, and also really rooted in a *place*. I can see lots of reasons why it would continue to have appeal. I think it's really cool sounding and would like to read it, in fact!

On the other hand, I totally, totally sympathize with the stories you really love not having had the same success. I have had the same thing happen -_-