In an alley diagonally across from the Red Theater, Sifa had just entered with Levtor when he saw a man furtively emerge from an unmarked herbal shop.
The herbal shop stood beside the Doctor's nameless clinic. Curious, Sifa glanced inside and saw that its owner wore a black robe like that of a rural witch doctor. He looked to be in his thirties, with black hair, brown eyes, a round face, and a plump build.
Perched on his shoulder was an owl with bulging round eyes.
What a strange combination. Sifa did not linger and headed into the clinic next door with Levtor.
Inside the clinic, the cold-faced Doctor sat on a long sofa. Beside him, a young woman had gently placed one long, straight leg on the Doctor's lap and was rubbing it back and forth.
Sifa could not help clearing his throat. "I'll come back later."
The Doctor looked up and, seeing Sifa, whispered a few words to the young woman. The alluring woman rose with a giggle. As she passed Sifa, he stepped aside, smiling as he removed his hat, pressed it to his chest, and gave her a slight nod.
After the lady left, the Doctor hung a "Closed" sign outside before asking, "When did you get here?"
"Just now."
Sifa did not waste time and got straight to the point. "Any news about Latiz?"
The Doctor nodded. "He'll be at the Red Theater tomorrow night. If you want to see him, this is an opportunity."
"You arrange it." Sifa patted his shoulder, then added, "Make your preparations. We'll be setting out in the next few days. My ship is nearby."
"All right," the Doctor replied concisely.
"Do you have any leads on the Biologist?" Sifa asked casually. Biologist was Sequence 6 of the Planter Pathway.