Ep. 10: Without a trace.

5 Months after Iris's disappearance.

Chiyo: (over the coms) We've hired you for this job since your really good at tracking down people. Renember we need her alive she's one of us do what you have to , to track her down.

Agent Null: Understood I won't harm a single hair on her head. I'll be starting the search at Nowhereville.

Chiyo: You do you.

Despite Agent Null asking around the town there was no trace linked to Iris but there where signs of her being there a few weeks ago.

Nova: Agent Null, it seems that there are signs indicating Iris was in Nowhereville a few weeks ago. Can you provide more details on what you found?

Agent Null: Sure, Nova. I spoke with some locals who mentioned seeing a woman matching Iris's description in town a few weeks ago. They couldn't provide any specific information on her whereabouts or where she might have headed afterward, though.

Nova: That's a good lead, Agent Null. Did you try asking about any specific places she might have frequented or any individuals she might have had contact with?

Agent Null: Yes, Nova. I asked around, but no one seemed to have any solid information. It seems as though she kept a low profile during her time here. However, there might be some surveillance footage that could help us narrow down her movements. I'll need to access the local security cameras to check for any sightings.

Nova: Excellent suggestion, Agent Null. Accessing the surveillance footage might provide valuable insights. I'll connect you with the local law enforcement to coordinate the retrieval of that footage. Please stand by.

Agent Null: Thank you, Nova. I'll wait for further instructions.

[After a brief pause]

Nova: Agent Null, I have spoken with the local authorities, and they will be granting you access to the surveillance footage. They have informed me that there might be multiple locations to check, including the town's main square, the train station, and the nearby motel. I suggest starting with those areas.

Agent Null: Good thinking, Nova. I'll head to the main square first. I'll look for any potential sightings and gather any information I can find. Once I'm done there, I'll move on to the other locations you mentioned.

Nova: That sounds like a solid plan, Agent Null. Remember, our primary objective is to find Iris alive and unharmed. If you come across any potential leads or anything that could be relevant to the investigation, please let me know immediately.

Agent Null: Of course, Nova. I'll keep you updated every step of the way. With your assistance, I'm confident we'll be able to track down Iris and bring her back safely.

Nova: Thank you, Agent Null. Stay vigilant, and be sure to take care of yourself as well. We're counting on you to bring Iris home.

Agent Null: I won't let you down, Nova. I'll do whatever it takes to find her.

Long John: Excuse me traveler I believe you should head in now the storm is rising.

Agent Null: Meaning? Sorry uncle I'm not from around here please explain to me what's going on.

Long John: The wind is picking up see all the locals heading inside?

Agent Null: Yeah why's that?

Long John: the wind will rip your flesh from your bones sonny best you find somewhere to stay for the night. Best do it quick you've got about 8 minutes before the storm hits.

Agent Null: Well shit where should I go?

Long John: The Thirsty Hound Bar and hotel it's a great place to settle in for the night.

Nova: Agent Null, it seems you're experiencing some communication issues due to the storm. Don't worry, I'm still here. Although our voice communication is momentarily down, we can continue our conversation through text.

Thirsty Hound Bar Lady: Is everything alright, traveler? You seem a bit unsettled.

Agent Null: Sorry about that. Yes, I'm just a little concerned about the storm and the communication blackout. Is there any way to get the coms back up or access any updates on the storm?

Thirsty Hound Bar Lady: Unfortunately, the storm has knocked out the power lines, causing a disruption in communication. We're doing our best to manage the situation. As for updates, we have a radio here at the bar that provides news and weather updates. Let me turn it on for you.

[The Thirsty Hound Bar Lady turns on a radio and tunes it to the local news station.]

Radio Broadcaster: ...severe storm approaching Nowhereville. Residents and travelers are advised to stay indoors and take necessary precautions. The storm is expected to last throughout the night, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and potential power outages. Stay tuned for further updates.

Nova: Agent Null, it appears the storm is indeed severe, and power outages are affecting the entire area, including your communication equipment. Please take this time to ensure your safety and stay informed through the radio updates.

Agent Null: Thank you, Nova. I'll stay inside the bar, and I'll keep an ear on the radio for any updates. I appreciate your assistance during this situation.

Nova: You're welcome, Agent Null. Remember, safety is our top priority. If you need any further assistance or if the situation changes, please don't hesitate to contact me. Stay safe and take care of yourself.

Agent Null: Understood, Nova. I'll be in touch if anything comes up. Stay connected through text for now. Thanks again for your support.

Nova: No problem, Agent Null. I'm here to help. Let's stay in touch through text for now. Take care and stay safe.

Agent Null: So what's your name?

Hayley: I'm Hayley and you are?

Agent Null: You can call me null.

Hayley: Nelson it is then. So what can I do for you?

Agent Null: Any idea when the storm will let up.

Hayley: Won't be till tomorrow morning guess your stuck here with us. We highly recommend our signature burger and a local craft beer. The "Thirsty Hound Burger" is a crowd favorite here. If you're into cocktails, I can whip up a mean Old Fashioned or a refreshing Mojito.

Agent Null: Those all sound tempting. I'll go with the Thirsty Hound Burger and a local craft beer. Thank you, Hayley.

Hayley: You're welcome, Null. Give me a moment, and I'll get your order ready. In the meantime, feel free to explore the bar and enjoy the games we have available.

[Agent Null explores the bar, playing a game of pool and engaging in conversation with other patrons. Time passes as they wait out the storm.]

The storm rages on throughout the night, but eventually, morning arrives, and the intensity of the storm begins to wane.

Hayley: Good news, Null. The storm seems to be subsiding, and it should be safe for you to continue your search for Iris.

Agent Null: That's great to hear, Hayley. Thank you for your hospitality and for keeping me informed.

Hayley: You're welcome, Null. We're always here to help. If there's anything else you need or any other information you require, don't hesitate to ask.

Agent Null: I appreciate it, Hayley. I'll gather my things and continue my search for Iris. If I come across any new leads or information, I'll be sure to let you know.

Hayley: Best of luck, Null. I hope you find Iris soon and that she is safe. Take care out there.

[Agent Null leaves the Thirsty Hound bar, ready to resume the search for Iris with renewed determination.]

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