Matthew was surprised to learn of Walter’s passing. He had considered Walter might have become wealthy or fallen on hard times, but he never expected this. He pondered how to retrieve the Tiger Seal and return the favor, realizing Walter's absence left him with no other choice. “Excuse me, sir,” he asked. “I’m looking for his children. Could you tell me which building and unit number they live in?”
Without looking at Matthew, George replied in an odd tone, “Listen, young man. Walter has passed, and his children were involved in a car accident.” He added, “Let’s not go too far. People should leave themselves a way out, no?”
Matthew felt George had misunderstood. He explained, “Perhaps you’ve misunderstood. I’m here to return a favor, as Walter helped my mentor. I’m not here to demand anything.”
George sized Matthew up, scrutinizing him to assess the truth of his words. After a long look, he shook his head. “Repaying a favor? Who are you trying to fool? I’ve seen people scam and borrow money without returning it, but I’ve never seen anyone return a favor,” he remarked cynically. “Alright, stop the acting. I don’t know anyone named Walter, so leave!”
Matthew felt helpless and was about to leave, but he suddenly noticed George’s bloodshot, inflamed eyes and pale lips. It was clear he suffered from a prostate condition.
“Sir,” Matthew asked, “have you been urinating more frequently than usual lately, and experienced a burning sensation when you urinate? Have you been trying to drink less water to avoid using the bathroom too often?”
Confused, George looked up. “H–How did you know?” He suspected Matthew had heard it from someone, but realized this was unlikely. He thought that if this person had the time to inquire about his health, he would have already found Walter’s home.
Matthew smiled. “I’m a doctor,” he explained, “and I noticed your symptoms.” He advised, “Soak these herbs—silverline, lunabloom, mistlily, and ivoryroot—in water. Then drink it, like tea. You’ll feel better in a month.”
George pulled out his phone. “I can’t remember all that. Can you type it into my notepad for me and save it?”
Matthew took the phone and input the note. George, finally lowering his guard, looked at Matthew. “Now I believe you’ve come to repay a favor. Walter was a good man, and very skilled in medicine.”
He continued, “Good people don’t live long. He cured a patient, only to be scammed in return. Even now, people are still demanding things from him.”
Matthew sensed George’s grief. “Please share that story with me. Perhaps I can assist in resolving it,” he offered, handing back the phone.
George reclaimed his phone and glanced at the prescription. “I’ll tell you the address. It’s Building 16, Unit 1, on the east side. I think you’re a good person, so I’ll help you out.”
George advised Matthew he could repay Walter's favor with money or goods, warning him not to get involved in solving the problems, lest he get into trouble.
Matthew was startled. Walter was dead, yet the situation remained so complicated. He bid farewell to George.
Following the numbered buildings, he found Building 16 at the northeast corner of the complex. Entering the stairwell of Unit 1, he saw the corridor repeatedly defaced with red spray paint. Bold characters demanded life and money. The red paint resembled blood, striking and ominous.
Reaching the east side, he gently knocked on the door.