I gather this talk of
reattachments and algetin is not just theoretical, and is connected
with my problem?"

Chang nodded. "Inquisitors on St. Ignatius do tend to take more time
with their subjects than do those in other Kingdoms. This one
discovered that algetin, used in adequate quantity and for an adequate
period, promotes both healing and nerve growth. While, as I said,
reattachment was successful in all cases, that of genital tissue was
spectacularly so." She allowed herself a brief smile. "The Service's
favorite virus, I suspect, is involved there. So, while any skin
could, in theory, be used for the reconstruction you require, I have
chosen somewhat more specialized material. You are, of course, aware
of penile nerve density and sensitivity."

Cortin chuckled. Sis knew perfectly well she did, but she said, "Of
course," willing to play along. What the medic called a virus wasn't,
exactly; it was called that only because it wasn't exactly anything
else, either, except itself, the cause of the Satyr Plague. That was
the only "disease" she knew of that people hadn't tried very hard to
avoid, because of its effect: it enhanced sexuality, especially in men,
and gave them capability to match their increased drive--capability
that had been purest fantasy before the virus' appearance thirty years
ago. "Go on."

"The donor we have found is a Brother with your blood type; I believe
the appropriate skin and nerve layers, inverted and properly placed,
should serve your purpose nicely." She smiled again. "We are, of
course, assuming you wish to resume female function. If not, there is
nothing I can do. However, from our discussion some months ago and
what Captain Odeon has told me, I believe that assumption is warranted.
Am I correct?"

"You are," Cortin managed to say, staring at her medic. But it did
make sense--was even just, in an odd way. If it worked, a Brother
would be providing what several of them had ruined. "You are
absolutely correct. It sounds like fantasy, but if you think there's
any chance at all, I'm willing to try." She glared at Odeon, who was
trying unsuccessfully to keep a straight face. "What's the matter with
you? Don't you think it'll work?"

"If Sis's this optimistic, it'll work." Odeon grinned. "And I know
you, remember? You've had a long dry spell--I can hardly wait to help
you make up for that."

Cortin's eyebrows rose. "Longer than I ever have before, true--and I'm