Lieutenant Hermes Papauran is restless because of an unsolved case, so he convinces his superiors to allow him one last chance to try to solve what happened at the dark Talo Lake. Fifteen years ago, a model and environmental activist named Esmeralda disappeared without a trace. However, in the Philippines, during Duterte's presidency, where countless people disappeared or were killed without a trace, it is doubtful that the culprits can be found. When asked what motivates a person to seek the truth, the disillusioned lieutenant answers - perhaps the desire to endure pain constantly. This case is Hermes Papauran's cross, which he carries willingly.