I wouldn't classify that as a long winded rant at all. I would definitely classify it as distressing to hear of an official beast revisit like that. I've seen the decreased intensity such as you're reporting attributed to both the D3 regimen and busting.
4 hours so far and still going - yikes you really get stuck with the longggg ones. And yep I too would be inclined to blame the fact you had to wait to get on the O2 this time for the current O2/abort resistance.
Kind of a ripoff that you didn't get your usual warning sign - like broke neck - before the attack, but I know you've grown accustomed to how the cluster bunny is the ultimate ripoff artist, notorious for throwing these diabolical sort of curve balls.
Best of results to you with tonight's seeds bust - NO SLAP BACKS ALLOWED!! (there will be enough fireworks tomorrow!).