Ben didn't like it one bit. Felt embarrassed. He was strong and healthy. He didn't need all this fuss. But he underwent the examination quietly, coughed when requested, opened his mouth when requested, and cursed Lory.

"I will," he lied, when the doctor told him to come back if there was blood. He wouldn't be back at all unless Elijah followed up. He preferred to assume he was fine.

"Elijah worries too much, ser. I'll be fine. It will be fine."