Laney found the quietest corner she could in a small room down the hall from the ballroom. She suspected it was used for catering services or something, but was currently empty, aside from a table. She stood facing the window and pressed the FaceTime contact with shaking fingers, waiting with breathless anticipation for the Master to answer. He picked up immediately, though is was 6:00 am in Osaka.

"Miss Paul," his cold voice penetrated her heart.

"Master," she said ...