In response to Dolittle's explanation, Sheyan asked a little tentatively, "If I remember correctly, there's still a really long time before you'll die from your illness, so you should have enough time to choose a healthier body, right?"
Dolittle - or more precisely, the great scientist - let out a wry smile.
"Yes, I do have enough time to wait, but...the medicine has a shelf life. My friends, you should know the condition of my previous body. That's why, although this current body of mine suffers from an excessive sex drive, a rheumatic heart disease, polio, elevated blood viscosity, vitiligo and beriberi, it was still an irresistible temptation to me. I couldn't wait...."
"You're right," replied Reef earnestly, "To be able to escape from that body is a supreme temptation for anyone, sir. That body was simply a God-given cage!"
Dolittle nodded gratefully.
