Bill had an assortment of yakitori, marinated meats grilled on skewers. Logan and Kim opted for oden, a rich stew containing fishcakes, potatoes, eggs, cabbage, yams and other exotic ingredients.

The yata mura gave them a temporary lift but, when they had finished eating, Bill and Logan both became subdued. They were sitting in silence, oblivious to the cheerful hubbub around them, when the phone chimed.

Kim answered it, then handed it to Logan.

"It's the hotel, for you."