I took it literally. There was a master switch on the wall just inside the door, but I went around and switched off every light I had earlier turned on, and I disconnected the computer recharging cable. The television was showing a standby light: I turned that off too. I then used the master switch in case there were other electrical devices, such as timers, sensors or thermostats I didn’t know about.

Whole plots can turn on details, or missed details. That was something I understood, even when I missed them.

I hurried down to the grill room. It was an airy place of subdued or indirect lighting, quiet background music and comfortable tables within discreetly lit booths. The menu was extensive and varied, the service prompt, courteous and helpful. The restaurant was not full. From where I was sitting I could see other diners at about six tables, small groups or couples. I was the only one eating on my own, but halfway through my meal a woman with grey hair came in by herself and was shown to a table on the far side of the room.

Not at that moment caring whether or not this meal was included in the cost of my overnight stay, I ordered three courses, appetizer, main course and dessert, taking my time, savouring the excellent cooking. I drank a half bottle of red wine, one imported from Salay Tielet, the third, the volcanic winegrowing island in my home group. I ended the meal with a small brandy and a cup of coffee.

I felt pleased and full. The only shadow that remained was the knowledge that I had a long return journey to start in the morning, two more days on the sleeper train back to the airport at Tristcontenta Hub.

I returned to my room, restored the lighting, put my computer and (now) my cellphone on to charge, and sat in the soft and enfolding armchair to pass what remained of the evening. Ten minutes later I was bored. I switched everything off again, picked up my cellphone, and returned to the ground floor. I had noticed there was a bar.

I ordered another glass of the delicious Salay Tielet wine, and sat contemplating it pleasurably in a seat close to an immense wood-burning stove. Logs were smouldering steadily. My body glowed with warmth. Twenty minutes passed – I ordered another glass of wine.

Then: ‘I believe you are Todd Fremde?’

It was a woman who had come up to stand beside me, holding a smaller glass that was almost empty. I turned, stood up.

‘Yes?’

‘I had the privilege of being at your lecture earlier this evening. I found it most interesting. I wonder – might I join you for a few minutes?’