The doctor fixes the bandage with a white adhesive tape, then nods. "Just until tomorrow or the day after, to give the gel a chance to work," he says. "I'm going to give you a tube of it so you can put it on your bruises afterwards. As my door is working somewhat randomly at the moment, I can't promise I'd be there to do it."

He picks up a paper tissue and wipes away Sinric's tears, gently, before starting to apply a rich white salve wo all the lacerations in his face.

"And of this, if you like."