She stuck a hand out of the covers and groped unconsciously in the dark until finally her fingers found the cold smooth object. But wherever she touched it, however she hit it, the ringing would not stop. "What gives?" Her eyes still closed, Takako frowned, groaned, and squeezed the metal object hard. The feel of it was real; this was no dream. The moment she realized that, she dropped the alarm clock, sat up in bed and reached for the telephone. "Sorry to disturb you at home. I have a message from Chief Wakita." The voice was unfamiliar. Ordinarily investigators received no emergency messages, but on hearing Chief Wakita's name, Takako made an immediate effort to banish the fog of sleep. "Is this Officer Otomichi?" She had to say something, but could manage only a croak. Before she could answer properly, the voice went on: "There was a fire about three hours ago. Your presence is requested at the site." After clearing her throat a few times, she was finally able to speak: "A fire?" Takako peered into the darkness.
