The doctor had a gentle grip on Priestly's ankle -- which was about twice the size of his calf, currently, as far as Priestly could tell -- and was slowly working Priestly's foot and knee. "The incisions all look like they've healed up fine, and the laceration's just about done, too," he said. "There's a little swelling in your foot, but no more than expected." He looked up at Dinah. "I'd recommend a flask cane over a sword just on general principle. But I don't think he'll need it for long."

"So. . . . I'm good?" Priestly asked. The doctor patted his shin.

"You're good. Extremely lucky, and rather fast healing, and due, I gather, for a nice sundae."