February 24, 2025 • 32 mins
Shoestring TV presents MAGNETAR – Day One: "Field Mice & Jumping Spiders"
High above the clouds, where sunlight dares not reach, two men are stationed at isolated observation posts—tasked with a mission they don’t understand, for a duration no one will define. Their only directive: observe and report on a seemingly abandoned cabin perched atop a remote mountain peak.
As the days blur into weeks, paranoia sets in, and the question grows louder: Why are they watching... and who is watching them?
A suspenseful blend of psychological mystery, atmospheric sci-fi, and slow-burn tension, this episode dives into the eerie unknown, where the line between duty and delusion begins to crack.
Keywords: sci-fi podcast, mystery thriller, psychological suspense, isolated surveillance, abandoned cabin, mountain observation, secret mission, high-altitude mystery
The Mission is the Mystery.
CAST:
Eric Carlino as Agent Pot Roast
Michael Cunningham as Agent Beef Stew
Brian Dahms as Tobey
Leslie Grant as Clementine
Original score:
Composed and performed by Logan Beard.
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Created, written & produced by Jason Beard
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
UNKNOWN (00:01):
Huh! Huh!
SPEAKER_03 (00:32):
Who?
SPEAKER_02 (00:33):
Who are you?
Where am I?
I can't breathe.
I
SPEAKER_03 (00:44):
can't breathe.
I
SPEAKER_02 (00:54):
said...
Altitudes?
What are you talking about?
Where's Debra?
SPEAKER_03 (01:04):
Okay, let's put him back under for the turn.
Relax, Agent.
You'll be in a more comfysetting soon.
SPEAKER_02 (01:10):
Soon?
How soon?
SPEAKER_03 (01:13):
Before you can say Jack Robinson.
SPEAKER_02 (01:17):
Jack Robinson.
SPEAKER_03 (01:20):
Nicely done, Agent.
Sweet dreams.
Wow.
SPEAKER_02 (02:10):
Hello?
Where am I?
Is anyone here?
Press the blinking red button.
Press the blinking red button.
Hello?
Press the blinking red button.
(02:30):
Blinking red button?
Press the blinking red button.
Okay.
Press the blink.
Uhh...
Okay?
(02:54):
Pressing the male preview.
(03:14):
Hey, buddy.
I, too, am a big fan ofParcheesi.
Could I offer you fresh toast?
Parcheesi and...
toast?
Okay, let's hear from you,m'lady.
SPEAKER_00 (03:29):
Those stocks and bonds yesterday were really
something.
Would you care for somemayonnaise?
SPEAKER_02 (03:35):
What?
Mayonnaise?
Who programmed this stuff?
Sorry, madam, I think I'll gowith the...
toast?
Awesome, my guy.
My name is Toby, Broheim.
Based on your personality typestatistics, I've defaulted to
Turbular Surfer, number two.
(03:57):
But this can be changed bypressing...
Sorry, Broheim.
You've selected the defaultsetting of Toby.
Press next to continue.
Great job! Welcome to the OwlStation.
This observation post currentlyrests at an altitude of 17,225
(04:19):
feet.
The highest permanent knownsettlement is in La Rinconada,
Peru, which is at an altitude of16,700 feet, or 5,100 millibars.
Field mice and jumping spiderscan live at altitudes of about
6,700 millibars, by comparison.
The Owl Station is astate-of-the-art observed
(04:41):
observation post which has beenconstructed to sustain
survivability at an altitude of20,000 feet for up to two years.
Nonetheless, in whatever way,should you experience any
discomfort or experiencehigh-altitude cerebral edema,
also known as hypoxia, which cancause swelling of the brain and
even death.
(05:02):
In the event of sudden brainswelling or death, please refer
to your manual and log theconcern.
Tardigrades also known as waterbears or moss piglets, a
primitive invertebrate, cansurvive in extreme hypoxia by
comparison.
Press next to continue.
Log the concern?
Before or after my death?
(05:24):
You are referred to as assetnumber 10987465.
Codename, Pot Roast.
Pot Roast?
Pot Roast.
Please familiarize yourself withthe industrial-grade cabin.
How do I pause?
It is 700 square feet, includingsleeping quarters, a bathroom
and shower combination, akitchenette, and full-size
(05:45):
refrigerator.
The kitchenette is supplied withrations and ingredients to last
up to three years.
Due to the nature of yourassignment, there is no external
communication provided My...
mirror?
What is that?
(06:11):
Your mirror is your counterparton this assignment.
A mirror is often chosen due totheir success on a previous
assignment.
In other words, you can rely onthem for their mentorship and
treat them as a confidant forthe many months you'll be here.
Many months?
I don't remember that.
Did I agree to that?
(06:32):
Please note, temporary memoryloss is expected.
You should regain full memoryaccess and recall within a few
hours.
Oh, okay.
I guess I did agree to that.
Thanks, Toby.
The sound you just heard is yourpersonal locker unlocking.
There, you will find the uniformyou'll wear for the remainder of
(06:55):
your stay.
It has reinforced seams, doublestitching, and sturdy zippers.
The durability is only matchedby its comfortability, allowing
for breathing and freedom ofmovement.
Please retrieve your uniform,get dressed, and then press next
to continue.
Please note that the internalcameras will temporarily disable
(07:16):
to allow for maximum privacy.
This is a one-time courtesy.
Thanks, I think?
No judgment, Toby.
It's a little cold in here.
(07:41):
Don't you look handsome.
Your style is on point.
Press next to continue.
Thanks, Toby.
I appreciate the boost ofconfidence.
Now, let's put you in touch withyour mirror.
They are located in the MantisStation.
The Mantis is approximately 500feet west-northwest from your
(08:02):
observation post location.
It is roughly situated at thesame altitude as the Owl
Station.
The Mantis is moderately largerthan the Owl Station, a
sprawling 1,100 square feet, abenefit afforded to a more
seasoned and experienced agent,an incentive to be sure.
At the moment you make contactwith your mirror, this
(08:24):
presentation will conclude.
Any information you requireforthward can either be provided
by your mirror or your manual.
I don't think forthward is areal word.
In the event you have an urgentneed, you can gain my attention
by verbal command.
Say, Toby, where art thou?
(08:47):
A fan of Shakespeare, I guess.
Toby, where art thou?
I am here, Pot Roast.
How may I help you?
Well done, Pot Roast.
Voice activation has beenenabled.
Would you like to connect withyour mirror now?
If so, use the voice activatedcommand, Mirror Mirror on the
(09:08):
Wall, and the captive networkwill connect you.
Shall we proceed?
Yes, let's proceed.
Mirror Mirror on the Wall.
Please stand by.
Okay, Toby.
Standing by.
Connected.
(09:28):
Uh, hello?
Hey, Toby?
I'm not seeing or hearinganything.
Oh, uh, wait.
Now I can see something.
Uh, hey there.
Hello?
SPEAKER_01 (09:44):
Hey, so, uh, you're the new guy.
Welcome.
So, first things first.
Did you choose the male orfemale Toby?
SPEAKER_02 (09:58):
Oh, I went with the male.
SPEAKER_01 (10:02):
Not the surfer dude.
SPEAKER_02 (10:03):
No, no.
Just the standard Toby.
You chose a female version ofToby, I take it?
SPEAKER_01 (10:12):
Yeah, uh...
Elated travel agent number two.
SPEAKER_02 (10:18):
Oh, why that one?
SPEAKER_01 (10:20):
I don't know.
She's, uh...
Peppy?
Positive?
Besides, I knew I was going tobe here a long time, so I wanted
a woman's attention.
SPEAKER_02 (10:31):
Hmm.
That's a good point.
I just wasn't in the mood formayonnaise, so I chose toast.
What?
Never mind.
Never mind.
So, how long have you been onassignment?
SPEAKER_01 (10:50):
Nuh-uh.
We're not supposed to talkspecific durations.
Did you forget?
SPEAKER_02 (10:54):
I actually didn't know that.
SPEAKER_01 (10:56):
all in the manual you haven't read the manual
SPEAKER_02 (11:00):
if i did i don't remember toby said after
regaining consciousnesstemporary memory loss is
expected
SPEAKER_01 (11:08):
oh right memory loss i forgot about that look i was
just pulling your leg about notsharing the time we've been on
assignment the manual does stayDon't share personal
information, but you'll come tofind I don't mind bending the
rules a little bit.
SPEAKER_02 (11:27):
Ah, okay.
Good to know.
So, how long?
SPEAKER_01 (11:33):
Thirteen months, give or take.
SPEAKER_02 (11:36):
Over a year?
Holy shit! Please, attempt torefrain from profanity.
This is a professionalenvironment.
This is just a warning.
Any repeated attempts atobscenity will result in a
registered infraction.
This is a one-time courtesy.
Uh, did that really just happen?
SPEAKER_01 (11:57):
It did.
Toby's mostly harmless when he'snot acting like the company's
own version of the vulgaritypolice.
SPEAKER_02 (12:07):
Big Brother is listening, I guess.
SPEAKER_01 (12:10):
And watching.
There are cameras all over thecabin.
Except for the shitter.
SPEAKER_02 (12:19):
Oh yes, Toby mentioned a one-time disabling
of cameras out of privacy.
SPEAKER_01 (12:25):
Right, so you'll be giving them a nice peep show for
the rest of your stay.
So we're not supposed to shareour actual names.
So when do you impress me withthe wonderful code name you were
given?
SPEAKER_02 (12:43):
I'm ready, but you should be sitting down.
SPEAKER_01 (12:48):
Okay.
Sitting.
Far away.
SPEAKER_02 (12:52):
Drumroll, please.
I am codename Pot Roast.
SPEAKER_01 (13:03):
Oh, no.
They did not.
Well, at least they're stayingconsistent.
SPEAKER_02 (13:10):
And what is yours?
Please don't tell me it'scodename Night Snake or
something.
SPEAKER_01 (13:19):
Far more badass.
Codename, Beef Stew.
SPEAKER_02 (13:25):
Why?
That's all I can say, why?
The
SPEAKER_01 (13:32):
company must really like rustic comfort food.
Speaking of, have you checkedout your new digs?
It can seem a little cramped,but it's fully stocked.
That is, if you don't mindcooking.
A few meals are microwavable,but they taste awful.
Unfortunately, there is nodelivery service here.
SPEAKER_02 (13:53):
Wherever here is.
SPEAKER_01 (13:55):
They do occasionally make special food drops, if
we've reached a milestone inyour assignment.
SPEAKER_02 (14:02):
Food drop?
How does that work exactly?
SPEAKER_01 (14:05):
Next to your locker.
See that tube there?
Sort of like a tube you'd see ata bank drive-thru.
SPEAKER_02 (14:11):
The pneumatic tube transport, or PTT, is designed
to allow for the easy sendingand receiving of specific
requests, which can includefood, items, including
non-telecommunication personaleffects, or knickknacks.
Thank you, Toby.
SPEAKER_01 (14:28):
Toby does that from time to time.
He interjects without a verbalcommand.
SPEAKER_02 (14:34):
Have you received anything through the tube?
SPEAKER_01 (14:37):
Oh, sure.
600-count silk sheets has beenthe biggest perk.
SPEAKER_02 (14:42):
I think I'd ask for an iron.
There's a crease in my sleevehere that is driving me bonkers.
SPEAKER_01 (14:49):
Wow.
Dreaming big, I see.
SPEAKER_02 (14:54):
I have a little OCD.
SPEAKER_01 (14:59):
I don't think we were hired because of our
charming personalities.
Hey, can I ask you a question?
SPEAKER_02 (15:06):
Sure, go for it.
SPEAKER_01 (15:08):
Who's Debra?
Sorry, you just shouted her namewhen you woke up.
SPEAKER_02 (15:19):
Oh, I did?
I'm not offended or anythingthat you asked.
I just wasn't sure how you...
I wasn't expecting to hear hername.
She...
Debra is my wife.
Ex-wife.
Wife, actually.
SPEAKER_01 (15:39):
Oh, okay.
That explains it.
They almost never hire familymen.
SPEAKER_02 (15:47):
Nope, not a family man.
My ex and I tried, but it didn'ttake.
I wanted to be a dad, but Ialways felt like I was trying to
convince her.
Then the doctors settled thescore, and we found out we
couldn't.
SPEAKER_01 (16:07):
Is that why you divorced?
SPEAKER_02 (16:10):
No, no.
There were other reasons.
SPEAKER_01 (16:16):
You made it further than I did.
There's only one thing I've beencommitted to more than this job,
and that is being entirelyuncommitted in personal
relationships.
A shrink once told me I haveASPD, but I think I just don't
do well with people.
In life, that is.
Guess that is why I...
(16:37):
seem to excel at theseassignments.
I'm very personable andrelatable from high altitudes
and at great distances.
SPEAKER_02 (16:48):
Well, for the record, whoever is watching and
listening, Agent Beef Stew hasbeen extremely helpful and made
me feel welcome.
SPEAKER_01 (16:59):
What is it?
You began to cringe.
SPEAKER_02 (17:02):
It was more of a grimace than a cringe.
It's just hard to take ourcodenames seriously.
Just saying them out loud, maybewe could shorten them?
I'm PR and you are...
DS?
SPEAKER_01 (17:17):
Yeah, that's not going to fly.
I
SPEAKER_02 (17:22):
see your point.
I'll just have to get over it.
SPEAKER_01 (17:26):
Trust me, compared to your predecessor, your
codename might as well beMaverick or Snake Eyes.
SPEAKER_02 (17:33):
Predecessor?
SPEAKER_01 (17:34):
The agent before you.
Oh, right.
You won't remember that, but itwas explained in your manual.
You're replacing them.
SPEAKER_02 (17:43):
Okay, what was their code name?
SPEAKER_01 (17:48):
Welsh
SPEAKER_02 (17:48):
Rabbit.
Is that a type of animal or morefood-themed code names?
Welsh Rabbit is a baked dishcontaining cheese sauce on
toasted bread.
It would be classified as Irishpub food.
The name of the dish waseventually altered to Welsh
rarebit since the delicacy doesnot, in fact, contain rabbit,
(18:12):
and it confused the populace.
Hasenpfeffer, a traditionalGerman stew, is made with rabbit
by comparison.
Yeah, I'm not feeling as badabout pot roast anymore.
SPEAKER_01 (18:28):
Welsh rabbit was a good agent.
Very detail-oriented.
Didn't have a sense of humor,really, but he could tolerate
me, I guess.
SPEAKER_02 (18:37):
Did you both start this assignment at the same
time?
SPEAKER_01 (18:41):
Yep.
Just like you, it was his firstone.
My third.
SPEAKER_02 (18:44):
I guess I should ask, why did he need to be
replaced?
SPEAKER_01 (18:50):
You really need to find your manual.
Uh, but...
I can only tell you whathappened from my perspective.
I think he got bored, maybe evencabin fever.
He just couldn't hack it.
You need endurance on theseassignments to withstand the
monotony.
SPEAKER_02 (19:08):
So he requested off the assignment?
SPEAKER_01 (19:12):
The company doesn't allow you to just quit.
My understanding is that herequested transfer to something
a little more fast-paced with ashorter time span.
SPEAKER_02 (19:24):
Hmm.
i hope he found what he waslooking for i
SPEAKER_01 (19:29):
can't believe we've gone this long without you
actually asking about theassignment
SPEAKER_02 (19:34):
i figured you'd fill me in
SPEAKER_01 (19:36):
okay walk to the touch screen all right see the
button that says open sesame
SPEAKER_02 (19:46):
uh yep
SPEAKER_01 (19:48):
okay then open sesame
SPEAKER_02 (20:01):
Uh-oh.
It's on your permanent recordnow.
It was worth it.
(20:24):
I bet you get killer sunrisesfrom here.
SPEAKER_01 (20:30):
I don't doubt it, if we ever saw the sun.
I realize our location is topsecret, kept even from us, but
if this isn't a polar night,then I don't know what it is.
SPEAKER_02 (20:44):
How long did you say you've been here?
SPEAKER_01 (20:46):
13 months or so.
SPEAKER_02 (20:50):
And you've never seen the sun?
Not once?
Not a single ray.
Toby, where art thou?
I'm here, Podros.
How may I help you?
Toby, what is the longest amountof time a polar night can last?
Your inquiry is germane.
(21:10):
However, a response wouldviolate security clearance
protocols.
SPEAKER_01 (21:16):
It was worth a shot.
I've tried asking my version ofToby the same thing.
She gave me the same cannedresponse.
I'm taking things at face value.
The assignment calls for me tolive in a place with no
sunlight, so be it.
SPEAKER_02 (21:30):
I guess you're right.
Nothing I can do about it now.
SPEAKER_01 (21:35):
So, back to the mission at hand.
Take a look through thetelescope.
Let me know what you see.
SPEAKER_02 (21:41):
Which one is the telescope?
SPEAKER_01 (21:43):
You'll have three primary tools for our mission of
observation.
The telescope is in the center.
The two devices on either sideof the telescope are long-range
cameras, still and video.
The telescope you'll notice hasbeen wiped of any branding or
model number, so I couldn't tellyou what brand it is, but it's
very high-tech.
If you zoom in close enough, youcan watch a fly take a bath.
SPEAKER_02 (22:18):
It looks like a cozy log cabin at the peak of a
mountain.
SPEAKER_01 (22:23):
Congratulations.
Mission spot roast.
Enter it in your field log.
You just completed theassignment for the day.
SPEAKER_02 (22:30):
Wait.
That's it?
SPEAKER_01 (22:33):
Yup.
Spy on this cabin.
SPEAKER_02 (22:36):
You're telling me you've been observing this cabin
for over a year and that's theassignment?
You
SPEAKER_01 (22:44):
got it.
SPEAKER_02 (22:45):
Any developments in 13 months?
SPEAKER_01 (22:49):
Nada.
Nada.
Not a sound, not a strangedisturbance or unusual shadow.
The cabin seems to be completelyabandoned, if it was ever
occupied at all.
The mission, the minimum isobservation every two hours and
add an entry to the field log.
Now that you're here, we'llalternate.
I did the last one, so you havearound two hours before a new
(23:13):
observation will need to belogged.
As if on cue, it's nap time.
This is going to be the biggestchallenge you'll find.
It's night 24-7, so it gets alittle foggy, figuratively
speaking, when to sleep, when tobe awake, when to eat breakfast,
(23:33):
lunch, or dinner.
So...
Coming up with a schedule thatworks for you is absolutely
critical to the success of theassignment.
It sounds easy, but having asound sleep interrupted every
two hours is no bueno.
My advice, let's crash now andin two hours wake up, snap a few
shots of the cabin, and thenback to dreamland you go.
SPEAKER_02 (23:53):
Actually, a couple hours of shut-eye sound perfect.
Thanks for giving me the stateof play.
For those listening...
Beef stew has significantlyprepared me for success.
SPEAKER_01 (24:07):
Don't let the
SPEAKER_02 (24:28):
jumping spiders bite.
(26:05):
Hello?
(26:40):
Hmm.
Nothing.
What time is it?
Almost time for my first shift.
Might as well get it over with.
SPEAKER_03 (26:49):
Since
SPEAKER_02 (26:49):
I'm up.
Okay.
Cabin is still.
No movement.
Nothing's changed.
Just a quaint lifeless logcabin.
(27:13):
Entered it in the log and done.
Time for more shut-eye.
Ah! Damn it! Toby, where artthou?
Hello?
(27:33):
Shit! Fuck! Asshole! Nothing?
Is the power out?
What is that?
Something wedged under thefloor.
(27:57):
It's my manual?
Well, that explains why Icouldn't find it.
Memory loss or not, I know Ididn't shove it under the floor.
Wait, what is that?
Blacklight?
For what?
(28:32):
Warning! Proximity breach!Warning! Proximity brea- Agent
Potrost, you've successfullylogged your first observation
entry.
Congratulations! Toby, youwarned of a proximity breach.
Is there something out there?
Scanning.
Please stand by.
(29:00):
Negative.
I do not detect any objects orlife, foreign or otherwise, in a
60-mile radius.
Clear skies.
Thanks for checking, Toby.
Um, goodnight?
(29:25):
What is that?
Toby, where art thou?
Hello, Pot Roast.
How can I help you?
Were there any scheduled PTTdeliveries for today?
Negative.
Nothing scheduled.
Do you have a request?
Um, no, nothing.
Thanks, Toby.
Sorry to disturb you.
(29:45):
Good night.
Good night, Pot Roast.
What is this?
A key?
A key and a note.
Agent Welsh Rabbit.
The key as you requested.
(30:06):
For your eyes only.
Do not share with your mirror.
Oh shit.
Please attempt to refrain fromprofanity.
This is a professionalenvironment.
You have received two registeredinfractions.
An appropriate alternative couldhave been...
Darn.
(30:28):
Fudge.
or the British English synonym,Buncombe.
UNKNOWN (31:06):
Produced by Jason Beard.
SPEAKER_03 (31:09):
Magnetar stars Eric Carlino as Pat Roast, Mike
Cunningham as Beef Stew, RyanDoms as Toby, and Leslie Grant
as Clementine.
(31:57):
Yeah.
Huh! Huh!
SPEAKER_03 (00:32):
Who?
SPEAKER_02 (00:33):
Who are you?
Where am I?
I can't breathe.
I
SPEAKER_03 (00:44):
can't breathe.
I
SPEAKER_02 (00:54):
said...
Altitudes?
What are you talking about?
Where's Debra?
SPEAKER_03 (01:04):
Okay, let's put him back under for the turn.
Relax, Agent.
You'll be in a more comfysetting soon.
SPEAKER_02 (01:10):
Soon?
How soon?
SPEAKER_03 (01:13):
Before you can say Jack Robinson.
SPEAKER_02 (01:17):
Jack Robinson.
SPEAKER_03 (01:20):
Nicely done, Agent.
Sweet dreams.
Wow.
SPEAKER_02 (02:10):
Hello?
Where am I?
Is anyone here?
Press the blinking red button.
Press the blinking red button.
Hello?
Press the blinking red button.
(02:30):
Blinking red button?
Press the blinking red button.
Okay.
Press the blink.
Uhh...
Okay?
(02:54):
Pressing the male preview.
(03:14):
Hey, buddy.
I, too, am a big fan ofParcheesi.
Could I offer you fresh toast?
Parcheesi and...
toast?
Okay, let's hear from you,m'lady.
SPEAKER_00 (03:29):
Those stocks and bonds yesterday were really
something.
Would you care for somemayonnaise?
SPEAKER_02 (03:35):
What?
Mayonnaise?
Who programmed this stuff?
Sorry, madam, I think I'll gowith the...
toast?
Awesome, my guy.
My name is Toby, Broheim.
Based on your personality typestatistics, I've defaulted to
Turbular Surfer, number two.
(03:57):
But this can be changed bypressing...
Sorry, Broheim.
You've selected the defaultsetting of Toby.
Press next to continue.
Great job! Welcome to the OwlStation.
This observation post currentlyrests at an altitude of 17,225
(04:19):
feet.
The highest permanent knownsettlement is in La Rinconada,
Peru, which is at an altitude of16,700 feet, or 5,100 millibars.
Field mice and jumping spiderscan live at altitudes of about
6,700 millibars, by comparison.
The Owl Station is astate-of-the-art observed
(04:41):
observation post which has beenconstructed to sustain
survivability at an altitude of20,000 feet for up to two years.
Nonetheless, in whatever way,should you experience any
discomfort or experiencehigh-altitude cerebral edema,
also known as hypoxia, which cancause swelling of the brain and
even death.
(05:02):
In the event of sudden brainswelling or death, please refer
to your manual and log theconcern.
Tardigrades also known as waterbears or moss piglets, a
primitive invertebrate, cansurvive in extreme hypoxia by
comparison.
Press next to continue.
Log the concern?
Before or after my death?
(05:24):
You are referred to as assetnumber 10987465.
Codename, Pot Roast.
Pot Roast?
Pot Roast.
Please familiarize yourself withthe industrial-grade cabin.
How do I pause?
It is 700 square feet, includingsleeping quarters, a bathroom
and shower combination, akitchenette, and full-size
(05:45):
refrigerator.
The kitchenette is supplied withrations and ingredients to last
up to three years.
Due to the nature of yourassignment, there is no external
communication provided My...
mirror?
What is that?
(06:11):
Your mirror is your counterparton this assignment.
A mirror is often chosen due totheir success on a previous
assignment.
In other words, you can rely onthem for their mentorship and
treat them as a confidant forthe many months you'll be here.
Many months?
I don't remember that.
Did I agree to that?
(06:32):
Please note, temporary memoryloss is expected.
You should regain full memoryaccess and recall within a few
hours.
Oh, okay.
I guess I did agree to that.
Thanks, Toby.
The sound you just heard is yourpersonal locker unlocking.
There, you will find the uniformyou'll wear for the remainder of
(06:55):
your stay.
It has reinforced seams, doublestitching, and sturdy zippers.
The durability is only matchedby its comfortability, allowing
for breathing and freedom ofmovement.
Please retrieve your uniform,get dressed, and then press next
to continue.
Please note that the internalcameras will temporarily disable
(07:16):
to allow for maximum privacy.
This is a one-time courtesy.
Thanks, I think?
No judgment, Toby.
It's a little cold in here.
(07:41):
Don't you look handsome.
Your style is on point.
Press next to continue.
Thanks, Toby.
I appreciate the boost ofconfidence.
Now, let's put you in touch withyour mirror.
They are located in the MantisStation.
The Mantis is approximately 500feet west-northwest from your
(08:02):
observation post location.
It is roughly situated at thesame altitude as the Owl
Station.
The Mantis is moderately largerthan the Owl Station, a
sprawling 1,100 square feet, abenefit afforded to a more
seasoned and experienced agent,an incentive to be sure.
At the moment you make contactwith your mirror, this
(08:24):
presentation will conclude.
Any information you requireforthward can either be provided
by your mirror or your manual.
I don't think forthward is areal word.
In the event you have an urgentneed, you can gain my attention
by verbal command.
Say, Toby, where art thou?
(08:47):
A fan of Shakespeare, I guess.
Toby, where art thou?
I am here, Pot Roast.
How may I help you?
Well done, Pot Roast.
Voice activation has beenenabled.
Would you like to connect withyour mirror now?
If so, use the voice activatedcommand, Mirror Mirror on the
(09:08):
Wall, and the captive networkwill connect you.
Shall we proceed?
Yes, let's proceed.
Mirror Mirror on the Wall.
Please stand by.
Okay, Toby.
Standing by.
Connected.
(09:28):
Uh, hello?
Hey, Toby?
I'm not seeing or hearinganything.
Oh, uh, wait.
Now I can see something.
Uh, hey there.
Hello?
SPEAKER_01 (09:44):
Hey, so, uh, you're the new guy.
Welcome.
So, first things first.
Did you choose the male orfemale Toby?
SPEAKER_02 (09:58):
Oh, I went with the male.
SPEAKER_01 (10:02):
Not the surfer dude.
SPEAKER_02 (10:03):
No, no.
Just the standard Toby.
You chose a female version ofToby, I take it?
SPEAKER_01 (10:12):
Yeah, uh...
Elated travel agent number two.
SPEAKER_02 (10:18):
Oh, why that one?
SPEAKER_01 (10:20):
I don't know.
She's, uh...
Peppy?
Positive?
Besides, I knew I was going tobe here a long time, so I wanted
a woman's attention.
SPEAKER_02 (10:31):
Hmm.
That's a good point.
I just wasn't in the mood formayonnaise, so I chose toast.
What?
Never mind.
Never mind.
So, how long have you been onassignment?
SPEAKER_01 (10:50):
Nuh-uh.
We're not supposed to talkspecific durations.
Did you forget?
SPEAKER_02 (10:54):
I actually didn't know that.
SPEAKER_01 (10:56):
all in the manual you haven't read the manual
SPEAKER_02 (11:00):
if i did i don't remember toby said after
regaining consciousnesstemporary memory loss is
expected
SPEAKER_01 (11:08):
oh right memory loss i forgot about that look i was
just pulling your leg about notsharing the time we've been on
assignment the manual does stayDon't share personal
information, but you'll come tofind I don't mind bending the
rules a little bit.
SPEAKER_02 (11:27):
Ah, okay.
Good to know.
So, how long?
SPEAKER_01 (11:33):
Thirteen months, give or take.
SPEAKER_02 (11:36):
Over a year?
Holy shit! Please, attempt torefrain from profanity.
This is a professionalenvironment.
This is just a warning.
Any repeated attempts atobscenity will result in a
registered infraction.
This is a one-time courtesy.
Uh, did that really just happen?
SPEAKER_01 (11:57):
It did.
Toby's mostly harmless when he'snot acting like the company's
own version of the vulgaritypolice.
SPEAKER_02 (12:07):
Big Brother is listening, I guess.
SPEAKER_01 (12:10):
And watching.
There are cameras all over thecabin.
Except for the shitter.
SPEAKER_02 (12:19):
Oh yes, Toby mentioned a one-time disabling
of cameras out of privacy.
SPEAKER_01 (12:25):
Right, so you'll be giving them a nice peep show for
the rest of your stay.
So we're not supposed to shareour actual names.
So when do you impress me withthe wonderful code name you were
given?
SPEAKER_02 (12:43):
I'm ready, but you should be sitting down.
SPEAKER_01 (12:48):
Okay.
Sitting.
Far away.
SPEAKER_02 (12:52):
Drumroll, please.
I am codename Pot Roast.
SPEAKER_01 (13:03):
Oh, no.
They did not.
Well, at least they're stayingconsistent.
SPEAKER_02 (13:10):
And what is yours?
Please don't tell me it'scodename Night Snake or
something.
SPEAKER_01 (13:19):
Far more badass.
Codename, Beef Stew.
SPEAKER_02 (13:25):
Why?
That's all I can say, why?
The
SPEAKER_01 (13:32):
company must really like rustic comfort food.
Speaking of, have you checkedout your new digs?
It can seem a little cramped,but it's fully stocked.
That is, if you don't mindcooking.
A few meals are microwavable,but they taste awful.
Unfortunately, there is nodelivery service here.
SPEAKER_02 (13:53):
Wherever here is.
SPEAKER_01 (13:55):
They do occasionally make special food drops, if
we've reached a milestone inyour assignment.
SPEAKER_02 (14:02):
Food drop?
How does that work exactly?
SPEAKER_01 (14:05):
Next to your locker.
See that tube there?
Sort of like a tube you'd see ata bank drive-thru.
SPEAKER_02 (14:11):
The pneumatic tube transport, or PTT, is designed
to allow for the easy sendingand receiving of specific
requests, which can includefood, items, including
non-telecommunication personaleffects, or knickknacks.
Thank you, Toby.
SPEAKER_01 (14:28):
Toby does that from time to time.
He interjects without a verbalcommand.
SPEAKER_02 (14:34):
Have you received anything through the tube?
SPEAKER_01 (14:37):
Oh, sure.
600-count silk sheets has beenthe biggest perk.
SPEAKER_02 (14:42):
I think I'd ask for an iron.
There's a crease in my sleevehere that is driving me bonkers.
SPEAKER_01 (14:49):
Wow.
Dreaming big, I see.
SPEAKER_02 (14:54):
I have a little OCD.
SPEAKER_01 (14:59):
I don't think we were hired because of our
charming personalities.
Hey, can I ask you a question?
SPEAKER_02 (15:06):
Sure, go for it.
SPEAKER_01 (15:08):
Who's Debra?
Sorry, you just shouted her namewhen you woke up.
SPEAKER_02 (15:19):
Oh, I did?
I'm not offended or anythingthat you asked.
I just wasn't sure how you...
I wasn't expecting to hear hername.
She...
Debra is my wife.
Ex-wife.
Wife, actually.
SPEAKER_01 (15:39):
Oh, okay.
That explains it.
They almost never hire familymen.
SPEAKER_02 (15:47):
Nope, not a family man.
My ex and I tried, but it didn'ttake.
I wanted to be a dad, but Ialways felt like I was trying to
convince her.
Then the doctors settled thescore, and we found out we
couldn't.
SPEAKER_01 (16:07):
Is that why you divorced?
SPEAKER_02 (16:10):
No, no.
There were other reasons.
SPEAKER_01 (16:16):
You made it further than I did.
There's only one thing I've beencommitted to more than this job,
and that is being entirelyuncommitted in personal
relationships.
A shrink once told me I haveASPD, but I think I just don't
do well with people.
In life, that is.
Guess that is why I...
(16:37):
seem to excel at theseassignments.
I'm very personable andrelatable from high altitudes
and at great distances.
SPEAKER_02 (16:48):
Well, for the record, whoever is watching and
listening, Agent Beef Stew hasbeen extremely helpful and made
me feel welcome.
SPEAKER_01 (16:59):
What is it?
You began to cringe.
SPEAKER_02 (17:02):
It was more of a grimace than a cringe.
It's just hard to take ourcodenames seriously.
Just saying them out loud, maybewe could shorten them?
I'm PR and you are...
DS?
SPEAKER_01 (17:17):
Yeah, that's not going to fly.
I
SPEAKER_02 (17:22):
see your point.
I'll just have to get over it.
SPEAKER_01 (17:26):
Trust me, compared to your predecessor, your
codename might as well beMaverick or Snake Eyes.
SPEAKER_02 (17:33):
Predecessor?
SPEAKER_01 (17:34):
The agent before you.
Oh, right.
You won't remember that, but itwas explained in your manual.
You're replacing them.
SPEAKER_02 (17:43):
Okay, what was their code name?
SPEAKER_01 (17:48):
Welsh
SPEAKER_02 (17:48):
Rabbit.
Is that a type of animal or morefood-themed code names?
Welsh Rabbit is a baked dishcontaining cheese sauce on
toasted bread.
It would be classified as Irishpub food.
The name of the dish waseventually altered to Welsh
rarebit since the delicacy doesnot, in fact, contain rabbit,
(18:12):
and it confused the populace.
Hasenpfeffer, a traditionalGerman stew, is made with rabbit
by comparison.
Yeah, I'm not feeling as badabout pot roast anymore.
SPEAKER_01 (18:28):
Welsh rabbit was a good agent.
Very detail-oriented.
Didn't have a sense of humor,really, but he could tolerate
me, I guess.
SPEAKER_02 (18:37):
Did you both start this assignment at the same
time?
SPEAKER_01 (18:41):
Yep.
Just like you, it was his firstone.
My third.
SPEAKER_02 (18:44):
I guess I should ask, why did he need to be
replaced?
SPEAKER_01 (18:50):
You really need to find your manual.
Uh, but...
I can only tell you whathappened from my perspective.
I think he got bored, maybe evencabin fever.
He just couldn't hack it.
You need endurance on theseassignments to withstand the
monotony.
SPEAKER_02 (19:08):
So he requested off the assignment?
SPEAKER_01 (19:12):
The company doesn't allow you to just quit.
My understanding is that herequested transfer to something
a little more fast-paced with ashorter time span.
SPEAKER_02 (19:24):
Hmm.
i hope he found what he waslooking for i
SPEAKER_01 (19:29):
can't believe we've gone this long without you
actually asking about theassignment
SPEAKER_02 (19:34):
i figured you'd fill me in
SPEAKER_01 (19:36):
okay walk to the touch screen all right see the
button that says open sesame
SPEAKER_02 (19:46):
uh yep
SPEAKER_01 (19:48):
okay then open sesame
SPEAKER_02 (20:01):
Uh-oh.
It's on your permanent recordnow.
It was worth it.
(20:24):
I bet you get killer sunrisesfrom here.
SPEAKER_01 (20:30):
I don't doubt it, if we ever saw the sun.
I realize our location is topsecret, kept even from us, but
if this isn't a polar night,then I don't know what it is.
SPEAKER_02 (20:44):
How long did you say you've been here?
SPEAKER_01 (20:46):
13 months or so.
SPEAKER_02 (20:50):
And you've never seen the sun?
Not once?
Not a single ray.
Toby, where art thou?
I'm here, Podros.
How may I help you?
Toby, what is the longest amountof time a polar night can last?
Your inquiry is germane.
(21:10):
However, a response wouldviolate security clearance
protocols.
SPEAKER_01 (21:16):
It was worth a shot.
I've tried asking my version ofToby the same thing.
She gave me the same cannedresponse.
I'm taking things at face value.
The assignment calls for me tolive in a place with no
sunlight, so be it.
SPEAKER_02 (21:30):
I guess you're right.
Nothing I can do about it now.
SPEAKER_01 (21:35):
So, back to the mission at hand.
Take a look through thetelescope.
Let me know what you see.
SPEAKER_02 (21:41):
Which one is the telescope?
SPEAKER_01 (21:43):
You'll have three primary tools for our mission of
observation.
The telescope is in the center.
The two devices on either sideof the telescope are long-range
cameras, still and video.
The telescope you'll notice hasbeen wiped of any branding or
model number, so I couldn't tellyou what brand it is, but it's
very high-tech.
If you zoom in close enough, youcan watch a fly take a bath.
SPEAKER_02 (22:18):
It looks like a cozy log cabin at the peak of a
mountain.
SPEAKER_01 (22:23):
Congratulations.
Mission spot roast.
Enter it in your field log.
You just completed theassignment for the day.
SPEAKER_02 (22:30):
Wait.
That's it?
SPEAKER_01 (22:33):
Yup.
Spy on this cabin.
SPEAKER_02 (22:36):
You're telling me you've been observing this cabin
for over a year and that's theassignment?
You
SPEAKER_01 (22:44):
got it.
SPEAKER_02 (22:45):
Any developments in 13 months?
SPEAKER_01 (22:49):
Nada.
Nada.
Not a sound, not a strangedisturbance or unusual shadow.
The cabin seems to be completelyabandoned, if it was ever
occupied at all.
The mission, the minimum isobservation every two hours and
add an entry to the field log.
Now that you're here, we'llalternate.
I did the last one, so you havearound two hours before a new
(23:13):
observation will need to belogged.
As if on cue, it's nap time.
This is going to be the biggestchallenge you'll find.
It's night 24-7, so it gets alittle foggy, figuratively
speaking, when to sleep, when tobe awake, when to eat breakfast,
(23:33):
lunch, or dinner.
So...
Coming up with a schedule thatworks for you is absolutely
critical to the success of theassignment.
It sounds easy, but having asound sleep interrupted every
two hours is no bueno.
My advice, let's crash now andin two hours wake up, snap a few
shots of the cabin, and thenback to dreamland you go.
SPEAKER_02 (23:53):
Actually, a couple hours of shut-eye sound perfect.
Thanks for giving me the stateof play.
For those listening...
Beef stew has significantlyprepared me for success.
SPEAKER_01 (24:07):
Don't let the
SPEAKER_02 (24:28):
jumping spiders bite.
(26:05):
Hello?
(26:40):
Hmm.
Nothing.
What time is it?
Almost time for my first shift.
Might as well get it over with.
SPEAKER_03 (26:49):
Since
SPEAKER_02 (26:49):
I'm up.
Okay.
Cabin is still.
No movement.
Nothing's changed.
Just a quaint lifeless logcabin.
(27:13):
Entered it in the log and done.
Time for more shut-eye.
Ah! Damn it! Toby, where artthou?
Hello?
(27:33):
Shit! Fuck! Asshole! Nothing?
Is the power out?
What is that?
Something wedged under thefloor.
(27:57):
It's my manual?
Well, that explains why Icouldn't find it.
Memory loss or not, I know Ididn't shove it under the floor.
Wait, what is that?
Blacklight?
For what?
(28:32):
Warning! Proximity breach!Warning! Proximity brea- Agent
Potrost, you've successfullylogged your first observation
entry.
Congratulations! Toby, youwarned of a proximity breach.
Is there something out there?
Scanning.
Please stand by.
(29:00):
Negative.
I do not detect any objects orlife, foreign or otherwise, in a
60-mile radius.
Clear skies.
Thanks for checking, Toby.
Um, goodnight?
(29:25):
What is that?
Toby, where art thou?
Hello, Pot Roast.
How can I help you?
Were there any scheduled PTTdeliveries for today?
Negative.
Nothing scheduled.
Do you have a request?
Um, no, nothing.
Thanks, Toby.
Sorry to disturb you.
(29:45):
Good night.
Good night, Pot Roast.
What is this?
A key?
A key and a note.
Agent Welsh Rabbit.
The key as you requested.
(30:06):
For your eyes only.
Do not share with your mirror.
Oh shit.
Please attempt to refrain fromprofanity.
This is a professionalenvironment.
You have received two registeredinfractions.
An appropriate alternative couldhave been...
Darn.
(30:28):
Fudge.
or the British English synonym,Buncombe.
UNKNOWN (31:06):
Produced by Jason Beard.
SPEAKER_03 (31:09):
Magnetar stars Eric Carlino as Pat Roast, Mike
Cunningham as Beef Stew, RyanDoms as Toby, and Leslie Grant
as Clementine.
(31:57):
Yeah.
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