Question the bartender further

The bartender was clearly nervous, but Lois couldn't let this opportunity slip away. Lois leaned over the bar, trying to keep her voice down even with the crowd noise and the club music blasting. "It's okay," Lois assured the bartender. "I'm here to help. What's your name?"

"Trixie," the bartender squeaked, forcing a weak smile.

"Trixie," Lois repeated. "Don't worry, I want to find out what's going on and put a stop to it, but I need your help. If you've seen anything suspicious, you can tell me. I promise I can protect you, but I need your help."

Lois offered Trixie's hand a supportive squeeze, while Toyman watched the exchange from the security room. Trixie leaned closer, telling Lois, "The first one disappeared not long after I started... Here's what I know."

Lois listened intently, barely realizing her hand wrapped around the second, full drink Trixie had just poured her.

The entire time she was talking, Trixie looked around, worried she was being watched. The security camera zoomed in on her, but she tried not to acknowledge that one, hoping Lois wouldn't either. The reporter kept an eye out for shady patrons, suspicious bouncers, and other ominous staff members, but seemed to believe Trixie's sincerity. Trixie spoke and Lois listened. "I heard there's a secret room in the basement, but I don't know what happens down there. My boss said just pour drinks and don't ask questions..."

"Questions," Lois said, making a mental note. "Like what's going on in the basement?"

Trixie nodded and continued. "I saw a couple of the missing girls in here before they disappeared, but I didn't see where they went. I was afraid of what might happen if I asked..."

"You have nothing to be afraid of," Lois promised her. She would have to find a way into that secret room, but first, she would have to get to the basement. The club was crawling with bouncers and security, so sneaking past them wouldn't be easy, let alone finding a hidden room. But Lois Lane was the world's most resourceful reporter. She would find a way in. As she thought about her next course of action, she held her drink, noticed that alluring pink and yellow swirl. Maybe another sip would be okay.