S6E3: The Dinner Party

Summary

End of All Hope – Season 6 Episode 3: "The Dinner Party"

Podcast Information:

• Title: End of All Hope
• Host/Author: Bloody FM
• Description: A fictional podcast following three survivors as they trek across the country trying to survive an alien invasion.
• Episode: S6E3: The Dinner Party
• Release Date: April 28, 2025

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Introduction to "The Dinner Party"

In Season 6 Episode 3, titled "The Dinner Party," of End of All Hope, listeners are immersed in the tense dynamics of a survivor community navigating the aftermath of an alien invasion. The episode centers around a pivotal dinner party organized by Grace and Troy, aiming to solidify leadership roles and streamline community efforts. Through strategic discussions and heartfelt confrontations, the episode delves deep into themes of leadership, resource management, and the ever-present threat of alien forces.

Character Dynamics and Tensions

The episode opens with Grace and Jay discussing recurring nightmares and past traumas, setting a somber tone for the evening. Grace reveals the internal struggle she faces regarding the safety of her family and the community, expressing both excitement and anxiety about potential changes (04:03).

Troy emerges as a central figure advocating for structured leadership and resource management. He confronts Cohen over the current state of operations, emphasizing the need for effective administration to maintain morale and sustainability (13:23).

Cohen, on the other hand, challenges Troy’s approach, highlighting the complexities of managing resources in a post-invasion scenario. Their dynamic showcases the classic struggle between centralized leadership and collaborative management within survival communities.

Leadership and Resource Management

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the debate over leadership roles and resource allocation. Cohen suggests raising prices on resources like beverages and ammunition to manage scarcity, arguing that it would incentivize better resource management (14:25). He states:

"We need to be self-sustainable and... you can forget about the military."

This proposal meets resistance from Grace, who advocates for a more community-driven approach. She emphasizes the importance of securing the area efficiently and ensuring that all community members have clear roles to contribute effectively (16:37).

The Dinner Party Setup

The central event of the episode is the dinner party organized by Grace and Troy. Grace meticulously prepares an elaborate meal, symbolizing her attempt to foster unity and collaboration among the survivors. As the guests arrive, tensions simmer beneath the surface, reflecting the underlying challenges the community faces.

Upon settling, Troy delivers a heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude to the attendees and emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to secure and expand their safe haven. He acknowledges Grace’s efforts, stating:

"I want to thank my wife, Grace, for not only setting things up but coming up with this idea."

Despite the warm reception, underlying disagreements surface as Grace and Cohen clash over the necessity and feasibility of formalizing leadership roles. Grace remains skeptical about the long-term viability of assigned titles, especially in the face of unpredictable alien threats like the rumored behemoths (38:16).

Conflicts and Resolutions

The dinner party becomes a battleground for differing ideologies. Grace raises concerns about the impending threat of larger alien creatures, advocating for immediate defensive measures rather than expansion:

"We could be attacked any day. We shouldn't push our luck."

Conversely, Cohen emphasizes the need to prepare for potential threats by strengthening their defenses and ensuring the community remains resilient. The conversation heats up as they discuss the unreliability of military support, with Grace pointing out:

"If the creatures come and we can't fight back, then we forget all of this."

Amidst the heated debates, Troy acts as a mediator, steering the conversation towards actionable plans. He proposes establishing clear departments with designated leaders to streamline operations and improve efficiency (34:34).

Conclusion and Future Implications

As the dinner concludes, the survivors are left with unresolved tensions but a clearer direction towards structured leadership. Cohen hints at contingency plans, revealing a prearranged boat for evacuation in case the community is overrun by alien forces:

"We take a boat and sail away."

This revelation adds a layer of urgency and highlights the precarious nature of their survival. The episode ends with the characters contemplating their next moves, setting the stage for future episodes to explore the ramifications of their decisions and the ever-present threat of the alien invasion.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Grace on nightmares and trauma:

  "I just can't sleep." (03:28)

• Cohen on self-sustainability:

  "We need to be self-sustainable and... you can forget about the military." (14:25)

• Troy expressing gratitude at the dinner:

  "I want to thank my wife, Grace, for not only setting things up but coming up with this idea." (31:37)

• Grace questioning expansion amidst threats:

  "We could be attacked any day. We shouldn't push our luck." (44:17)

• Cohen revealing evacuation plans:

  "We take a boat and sail away." (50:31)

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Key Takeaways

• Leadership Struggles: The episode highlights the internal conflicts within survivor communities regarding leadership structures and decision-making processes.

• Resource Management: Effective allocation and management of limited resources are portrayed as critical factors for survival.

• Threat Perception: The looming threat of larger alien creatures adds tension and influences the community’s strategic decisions.

• Community Dynamics: The interactions between characters underscore the complexities of maintaining unity and morale in dire circumstances.

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End of All Hope continues to deliver compelling narratives that delve into the psychological and logistical challenges faced by survivors in a post-apocalyptic world. "The Dinner Party" serves as a microcosm of the broader struggles for power, resource control, and survival, setting the stage for intense developments in future episodes.

Transcript

[Cohen]

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[Grace]

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[Jay]

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[Cohen]

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[Grace]

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[Troy]

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[Grace]

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[Troy]

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[Grace]

Find your push, Find your power. Peloton visit1peloton.com Everyone don't forget we are on Patreon.

[Troy]

If you'd like to help us out.

[Grace]

You can go to patreon.com 7Lamb the number 7Lamb and you can donate as.

[Troy]

Little as a dollar a month and it all goes to helping us create.

[Grace]

Podcasts such as this one.

[Troy]

We do have other tiers to choose from with a ton of different bonus content so you can check us out once again.

[Grace]

That's patreon.com 7Lamb the number 7Lamb and.

[Troy]

Any support is much appreciated. Thanks everyone and enjoy the next episode of End of All Hope. Seven Lamb Productions presents End of All Hope Season 6 Episode 3 the Dinner Party.

[Grace]

They'Ll come for you. All of them. And when they find you, they'll drag you back to town naked and hog tied and you'll wish you didn't set foot in you.

[Jay]

Another nightmare. But not about Mark or Scott. This time it was calm.

[Grace]

Can't sleep again?

[Jay]

I spun around, startled. Jay was sitting on the curb to the left, smiling. Yeah, another nightmare.

[Grace]

That sucks. Wanna talk about it?

[Jay]

Not really. I took a seat next to him. But I will. Jay, you told me you were forced to kill someone to save Ambridge and Kylie.

[Grace]

I was.

[Jay]

Do you think about it?

[Grace]

Not so much anymore.

[Jay]

No nightmares?

[Grace]

No. Actually, my nightmares stopped for the most part afterwards. Yeah. I told you about the storm and the people living under the house we were staying in. I froze in that moment and risked our lives. That stayed with me for a while.

[Jay]

Really?

[Grace]

Yeah. Until the day Ambridge and Kylie needed my help again. I guess in some way it freed me. I didn't feel worthless anymore after that moment. I think that was the real cause of my nightmares.

[Jay]

Feeling worthless?

[Grace]

Yeah.

[Jay]

So you don't really have nightmares anymore?

[Grace]

Every once in a while. But not of the woman. Of other things.

[Jay]

Like what?

[Grace]

Me and Kylie. Mark.

[Jay]

Yeah, Mark. I've dreamt of him often. We actually didn't talk about Mark much. Not after the night we saw each other again. It made me sad and depressed and I guess I just wanted to avoid those feelings.

[Grace]

I missed you guys.

[Jay]

We missed you too, Jay. We talked about you a lot.

[Grace]

You did?

[Jay]

Yeah.

[Grace]

Sometimes I wish we'd stayed together, but other times I think then I would have never met Ambridge and Kylie.

[Jay]

Yeah. You had some good friends with you along the way.

[Grace]

I. I just wish I had. Got to say goodbye to Mark.

[Jay]

Yeah. I put my arm around him and we sat in silence a good five minutes. So you know why I'm out here. But what about you? What are you doing up?

[Grace]

I just can't sleep.

[Jay]

Why?

[Grace]

Kylie.

[Jay]

Really? But I thought you and Kylie talked things out. I thought you were happy.

[Grace]

I am. Oh, I am. Too happy to sleep.

[Jay]

What? For real, you're too happy?

[Grace]

Or excited would probably be a better word. And nervous. And anxious. I just didn't think any of this would happen.

[Jay]

Well, I'm happy for you, Jay. Kylie is really nice and I think you guys are perfect for each other.

[Grace]

Yeah.

[Jay]

Yeah. So you guys still plan on moving?

[Grace]

Yeah. We're going to meet up with my family tomorrow to discuss it. That might also be why I'm up. I'm nervous about that.

[Jay]

But she's met your dad and brother before, right?

[Grace]

Yeah, and my brother's family. But it's different now, right? Hey, if we do end up moving in with my family, it won't be like us ditching you an Ambridge, right?

[Jay]

What? No. You gotta do what you gotta do, Jay.

[Grace]

I know, but I do kind of feel bad about that. I like our living situation.

[Jay]

Yes, but your father needs help.

[Grace]

He does. But I think my brother makes excuses.

[Jay]

What do you mean?

[Grace]

Andy just wants us to live together so they don't get stuck with some other losers. I think that's the main reason?

[Jay]

Eh, he's family, though. And it'll be nice for you to all be together under one roof with.

[Grace]

A bedroom door that closes all the way.

[Jay]

Well, don't worry about me and Ambridge. We'll be fine.

[Grace]

Good.

[Jay]

I got up, rubbed my arms as the night was a little cool and windy.

[Grace]

Hey, Ava.

[Jay]

Yeah?

[Grace]

When we hung out and went to the gardens the other night, you said there was something you wanted to talk about. Then you said don't worry about it because we had to get things ready for my date. But what did you want to talk about?

[Jay]

Oh, it was nothing, really. Just some things I'm dealing with. Personal stuff.

[Grace]

Is it about Ambridge?

[Jay]

What do you mean?

[Grace]

Is it about you guys liking each other?

[Jay]

What? No.

[Grace]

Oh.

[Jay]

Wh. Why would you think that?

[Grace]

I don't know. You guys hang out sometimes. You've been on walks.

[Jay]

Kylie mentioned that there's nothing between us.

[Grace]

Oh, okay. Sorry.

[Jay]

I couldn't believe Jay just said that. But then I started to wonder about Ambridge. Ambridge hasn't said anything right about that?

[Grace]

No.

[Jay]

Oh. Okay. I walked back over to Jay and Z. I keep struggling with what I want to do.

[Grace]

With what?

[Jay]

With myself. I feel like I have three options. Staying here seems like the most obvious one right now. But part of me wants to go back to San Diego and search for Scott back at our place. Since you wrote the note on the door and you never saw any signs of Scott, how can I be sure he isn't at home? Or maybe another quarantine zone?

[Grace]

But that's dangerous. You know how the big cities are.

[Jay]

I do.

[Grace]

And what? You're going to go back alone?

[Jay]

I abruptly stood, stared off across the lot at the other RVs. A few night owls stood outside chatting and smoking. I could trust me. I didn't know how things would pan out when I was forced to travel alone. But I made it. I stared down at my hands. The hands that held a gun that pulled the trigger that killed that man. I'm not as afraid as I was.

[Grace]

Before, but it's still really dangerous.

[Jay]

I know.

[Grace]

What's the other option?

[Jay]

What?

[Grace]

You said three. What's the other option?

[Jay]

The other option is to leave here, forget about San Diego, and find someplace else.

[Grace]

Like where?

[Jay]

I'm not sure. I turned to face towards the bay. On the other side of the water, I saw a little speck of light. It was coming from a two story home. I thought no one lived on that side of the bay. Hmm.

[Grace]

Well, Ava, I hope you decide on option one, because I'd miss you.

[Jay]

I know I'd miss you too. I smiled, then looked back at the light across the bay, wondering who would live that far away from everything and everyone.

[Troy]

I sip my coffee while I stared out at the bay. The road wasn't blocked, but no vehicles or people came this way. At least not yet.

[Cohen]

Hey, what are you doing up again?

[Troy]

I turned around to see Grace in one of her nightgowns leaning against the door frame of the dining room. I can't sleep, so I've been working. I went over to the long organic edge oak dining table and looked at all the maps and papers sprawled out.

[Cohen]

Where'd you get those?

[Troy]

Troy.

[Cohen]

And where'd he get them?

[Troy]

Some from campsites, others from visitor centers.

[Cohen]

What are you doing with them? I thought you already had the expansion down.

[Troy]

This isn't just Bodega Bay. It's all of Northern California.

[Cohen]

Oh.

[Troy]

I sat, moved some maps, some lists.

[Cohen]

Seriously? Coffee at this hour?

[Troy]

You know I'm doing this for us, right? That's what you said.

[Cohen]

Sure. But can't you have others handle this? Whatever this is?

[Troy]

No. Not if I need to show face. Not if I need to motivate. Not if we need supplies.

[Cohen]

And do we always.

[Troy]

This place will be struggling soon.

[Cohen]

If. No, no. You misunderstood. Do we?

[Troy]

She sat to the right of me and picked up one of the maps. She was toying with me again, but I needed to stay firm. Yes, we do. If you want to maintain all of this. She smirked.

[Cohen]

Why are you getting upset?

[Troy]

I'm. I'm not.

[Cohen]

Tell your face, Grace Cohen.

[Troy]

You told me that morale was the most important thing here, and ever since we were handed the keys to the.

[Cohen]

Town, I've tried my best, which wasn't good enough. That's why I told you. You need to fix things. I was right. You knew it, I knew it. Troy knew it. Everyone who knew the situation knew it. The military failed. And do you know why? It wasn't because they weren't prepared for the creatures and the ships. It was because they lost respect of the people they kept in cages. People like you and me. So, yes, if you want to keep things the way they are now, you need to keep morale high.

[Troy]

Why do you think I'm up then? Sipping coffee, surveying maps, making plans for the fun of it. The supplies we have won't last much longer. So here I am, scoping.

[Cohen]

What else is the issue?

[Troy]

What?

[Cohen]

The coffee you're drinking. It's black.

[Troy]

So?

[Cohen]

You only drink black coffee when you're stressing about something. So what is it Most of the.

[Troy]

QZs around here were picked clean. Now I'm worried where we're going to find more supplies if we travel to cities, well, cities that have been overtaken.

[Cohen]

We need to be self sustainable and.

[Troy]

We'Re working towards that.

[Cohen]

Maybe if the military the military's done, Cohen. They gave up. So now it's up to us. I know it hasn't been that long since the meteors fell, but things aren't going back to normal anytime soon, if ever. So you can forget about the military.

[Troy]

She wasn't completely right about that, but I didn't argue. Fine, Grace. But being self sustainable with as many people as we have here takes time.

[Cohen]

Raise the prices in the meantime.

[Troy]

What?

[Cohen]

Raise prices? If you're going through too many resources, then raise the prices of those resources. At least until we can become self sustainable.

[Troy]

That doesn't. I mean, maybe.

[Cohen]

What's the real problem, baby?

[Troy]

She cupped my face in her hands, pulled me in for a kiss. I don't feel right getting the resources the way we've been doing it the past few weeks.

[Cohen]

Is that why you closed the campground?

[Troy]

I didn't answer her. She was annoyed now. She let go of me, walked over to the window, peering out of the bay.

[Cohen]

Times are changing, Cohen, and they're changing fast. Things aren't going to get better. It's like I told you three months ago. Don't start something you can't finish.

[Troy]

She spun around to face me, her nightgown swishing through the air.

[Cohen]

In a year's time, what do you think it's going to be like out there? We have to stay ahead of everyone else, ahead of every other surviving group trying to do the same thing. We have to learn to adapt better than all of them.

[Troy]

But killing over some beef jerky and batteries and she reached past me and grabbed the pill bottle in the corner of the table, something I'd just taken.

[Cohen]

For my headache medicine. This was from the last haul, right? It was on the list Troy showed me.

[Troy]

He showed you?

[Cohen]

Yes. And this is worth it? It's worth more time and money.

[Troy]

She put the bottle down and walked back over to the window. Moonlight seeped in through not only the window but her nightgown as well, giving her an angelic glow.

[Cohen]

Worry about the people here. Worry about us. No one else. Just this place. Just our home.

[Troy]

Okay. But I'm.

[Cohen]

I'm what?

[Troy]

I'm in over my head here, Grace. Everyone comes to me with everything. I get bombarded day in and day out. I'm having trouble keeping track of every Implemented rule and regulation and there's no consistency.

[Cohen]

Why didn't you tell me sooner?

[Troy]

I just shrugged.

[Cohen]

You know, I've been thinking about this place and how you need to have people running departments. No more of these small management jobs you dole out. Because you're right, you can't do it all. And me and Troy aren't enough either.

[Troy]

I've been working on a list of people that may be able to help out more.

[Cohen]

Have you talked to them yet?

[Troy]

No. I'm not even sure they would want a position like running a department, as you say.

[Cohen]

Are you kidding? Sure they will. We'll give them perks.

[Troy]

Many already get perks.

[Cohen]

We'll give them more perks. Shoot, I bet most of them live in the center of town, right?

[Troy]

Probably.

[Cohen]

Why move them over here, this side of the bay? Make an administration a community. They get better food resources.

[Troy]

That'll be a lot.

[Cohen]

Cohen, you need to be thinking ahead. Give these people a reason to accept a leadership position more than just some ration cards. Which, by the way, were my idea.

[Troy]

Meaning?

[Cohen]

Meaning, don't doubt me. The people on your list, who are they?

[Troy]

People that have been helping run things so far in certain areas. Like Spencer and Bryson and Felix.

[Cohen]

How many do you have so far?

[Troy]

Well, that's the problem. We have different shifts. Multiple people running the show, several people who oversee the.

[Cohen]

How many?

[Troy]

22.

[Cohen]

22?

[Troy]

That's supply runners, guards who head each post, ration card distributors, dock managers, food managers.

[Cohen]

No, no, that's too many. It's been too many. That's why there's no consistency. There's too many cooks. Cut it down to like eight.

[Troy]

Eight?

[Cohen]

Yeah, eight departments. Food Management, Security, Transportation, stuff like that. They lead the departments, you lead them. That's how it should have been months ago.

[Troy]

She handed me back my list. Who do I pick?

[Cohen]

Troy and seven others.

[Troy]

Then what? She rubbed her chin, contemplating.

[Cohen]

I have an idea. A dinner party.

[Troy]

What?

[Cohen]

A dinner party. We'll host a dinner here. That way you can talk to them all at once. You invite Troy and the others and we can discuss in better detail how not only to run this place efficiently, but make it self sustainable.

[Troy]

You think?

[Cohen]

Yes. There are a lot of moving parts here. You give leadership roles to these people from your list, the ones you think can make a difference and run their respected positions.

[Troy]

But a dinner party? That seems inappropriate.

[Cohen]

Why?

[Troy]

The state of things?

[Cohen]

Look out there, Cohen. People are still going about living their lives the best they can. There's no reason we shouldn't do the same.

[Troy]

Was she joking? We had been doing the same for months. I never understood how she could make comments like that. Wearing a nice nightgown, standing in a large dining room in a two story home with no real worries of food or safety.

[Cohen]

Let me set it up. It'll be no different from what you have here, except it'll be less stress. Hell, you can even sit in the same spot right here at the head of the table.

[Troy]

Fine, Grace.

[Cohen]

Good.

[Troy]

She grabbed my shoulders and forced me to sit. She then slid my coffee to me.

[Cohen]

Come up with eight positions and eight people to run them. Then finish your coffee and come to bed.

[Troy]

She kissed me on the cheek and then walked out of the room.

[Grace]

Yes. Yes. Keep moving. Keep going. Well, that wasn't too bad. Wasn't great either. How the bike's looking?

[Jay]

Everything's good.

[Grace]

Gas is full.

[Troy]

But I think we might want to rethink who goes.

[Grace]

Why?

[Troy]

Because Hudson wants to.

[Grace]

Damn right. I thought we already talked about this. I want to go too. No, no, come on. We discussed this. Dana and Kenny, they're the ones taking the bikes. Don't worry, guys. We got this.

[Cohen]

I grew up riding and you're gonna.

[Grace]

Want someone that's good off road. That's bullshit. I want payback. Me too. I turned around to see Chris and Jess standing by the bikes. Chris? No. Everyone. No. We discussed this last night. Two are going, okay? Two?

[Troy]

Oh, come on, Terrell.

[Grace]

No offense, but look at your arm.

[Troy]

I can help. Snipe.

[Grace]

Nah, we don't need no dead weight. You don't think I can still shoot? It doesn't matter. No one else is going on bikes. They're already going to have some protection. So I can go with you, Travis? Fine. Sure. Two other teams were going up in cars to play cleanup if everything went according to plan. But we already had teams set. Of course, if Terrell wanted to go, fine, but Chris and Hudson needed to stay back.

[Troy]

Hey, am I.

[Grace]

Am I the only one that thinks this is a bad idea? Shut up, Ira.

[Troy]

No, I'm being serious.

[Grace]

We're heading to a town that's devoid.

[Troy]

Of people and aliens.

[Grace]

Right?

[Troy]

That's where you're diverting us. So do we really need the base?

[Grace]

It's not just the base.

[Jay]

Ha.

[Grace]

Yeah, it's the principal, you dumbass. No, no. I mean, it's what's in the base. Vehicles, Ammo, supplies, food.

[Troy]

Sure, yeah, but is it really worth risking more lives?

[Grace]

It's worth finding out. I know Chris was going to hold out hope as long as she didn't see a body like Mia. Did with her back at White Ranch.

[Jay]

We don't know about the others 2. Gale, Annie, and what about Grant and the rest?

[Troy]

No offense, but is this really worth risking our people?

[Jay]

It is.

[Grace]

Chris was just hurting right now while we were both on the same side about this. It was for different reasons. Okay, whatever.

[Troy]

I said my piece.

[Grace]

Ira rested his gun on his shoulder and ambled off towards the convoy, which had now made some distance on the small dirt road.

[Troy]

I'm sure we could sit here and.

[Grace]

Debate all day, but my guess is.

[Troy]

We only have a few hours now until those creatures are on us.

[Jay]

A few hours is plenty of time, Chris.

[Grace]

What? I can help.

[Jay]

This wouldn't be my first rodeo.

[Grace]

Dana walked up to her and put his hand on her shoulder, then did a slight nod to Jess. I know you could help, but do you really want to leave her here? She swallowed hard and dropped her head.

[Cohen]

Okay, you're right. Just, if you can find out about Mia.

[Jay]

I know things will be chaotic, but I just need to know for sure.

[Grace]

I will. Okay. Now that that's settled. Good luck out there, guys. Ride fast. And remember, Dana, I know. Don't die here. Over here. I followed the man known as Armando or Army along Bodega Dunes Road. It was north of the campground between the highway and ocean. See? See what I mean? It's barren. Oh yeah. There weren't many trees, just rolling hills of dried grass, sand, and rock. They weren't lying. No fence, no walls. Who's they? A couple guys I was working with on Seaway Road. How'd you guys manage? Don't ask me. Remember, I've only been here like six weeks, but from what I've heard, they haven't had any run ins with the creatures and nothing up here. So they leave it? Well, apparently they have an outpost over there. And over there. He pointed towards the highway, then to the bend to our right. What about the coast? Nah, not this far up. Guards, at least? Sure, they patrol, but that's also south a bit more. Man, I told you the people running this place don't have a true grasp on the situation. They don't understand what you and I do. Army was one of the guards up here, I bet. Assigned to his post for the time being before more resources came to start the fence. Is it like this south of here? You mean West Shore Road or the golf course? Golf course. I have a friend down there. Yeah, it's just like this. Even the highway between these areas is mostly open. They've seen the aliens, right? Who? The people in charge Cohen, right? Yeah. Him and his lady don't stay too far from here. I have no idea what they've seen, and I have no idea how they came to run things, but I can assure you. But they don't get the gravity of what's going on. He shrugged and we both turned our attention back to the hills in front of us. Huh. What? I just. I thought this place was a lot safer. Yeah, well, I know they plan to do more, finally, but I think they were so preoccupied with setting up a money system and pretending to be the mayor, they haven't really focused on the true necessities like the fence and the issues they've been having with the supplies. Have you done runs? No, not me. But I've heard things. A friend of mine goes out from time to time. They having a hard time finding stuff around here? Yeah. Is it true they send a small team to Santa Rosa? Not sure. Possibly. Why? I've heard things, too. Rumors circulate, though. I try to hold off judgment until I see things firsthand. Like this. Yeah, well, I think this should be the primary worry. No one's going to be able to get supplies or worry about ration cards if you don't have a secure place. Yeah, I may have been here a month and a half now. Before that, I saw a lot. And I can't imagine what you've seen traveling across the entire U.S. i'll tell you that. If there haven't been many run ins here, they should count themselves lucky. See, that's what I tell Bryson. Bryson was Army's friend who was in charge of the security around the campsite. I tell him eventually one of those aliens would just saunter up through the post totally undetected and just wreak havoc. It doesn't even have to come in undetected. The gap you have here could fit 10 behemoths walking side by side. And those things could destroy Bodega Bay. They'd obliterate it. Army told me he'd only ever seen shriekers and thrashers, so he was intrigued to learn of the other alien types. You know, I'll tell Bryson he needs to bring that up at the dinner party. What dinner party? Apparently, Cohen and Grace are having a meeting in their place to discuss upcoming plans. Normally, only a couple people know what's going on outside. Cohen and Grace and Troy. Troy? You saw him? Burly guy with a beard and a big forehead. He was dressed in tactical gear and carrying the HK oh, right. Well, yeah, if your friend Bryson is going, I would tell him that this is a serious oversight that they need to hurry up. I'll just mention the behemoths Good. Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile. I don't know if you knew this but anyone can get the same Premium Wireless for $15 a month plan that I've been enjoying. It's not just for celebrities. So do like I did and have one of your assistants assistants Switch you to Mint Mobile today.

[Troy]

I'm told it's super easy to [e-mail].

[Grace]

Switch upfront payment of $45 for 3 month plan equivalent to $15 per month.

[Cohen]

Required intro rate first 3 months only then full price plan options available, taxes and fees extra.

[Troy]

See full [e-mail] don't miss your chance to spring into deals at Lowe's right now get five select one pint annuals for just $5 plus get a free 60 volt Toro battery when you purchase a select 60 volt Toro electric mower. With deals like these, your yard wins. Shop in store or online today. Lowe's we help you save valid through 430 while supplies last. Actual plant size and selection varies by location. Excludes Hawaii Race the rudders.

[Grace]

Race the sails. Race the sails. Captain, an unidentified ship is approaching.

[Troy]

Over.

[Grace]

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[Troy]

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[Grace]

We'll even give you a $100 credit.

[Troy]

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[Grace]

And conditions Appreciate this is a hell of a spread.

[Troy]

Troy nudged me playfully with his elbow and smirked. He then went over to his seat. Couldn't believe Grace actually did all this. The amount of food all nicely laid out across the table. I hadn't seen anything like this since last Thanksgiving.

[Cohen]

Cohen Yeah? Ask the guests to take their seats. We need to get started. We said seven and it's already a quarter past.

[Troy]

Grace was dressed up. A navy lace cocktail dress and low heel pumps to match. She also had dangling hoop earrings and makeup on. She really went all out. Grace, I don't think anyone really minds.

[Cohen]

What time we start, but we said now. Please.

[Troy]

She pushed past me and around the table. She whispered something to Troy, chuckled, and then made her way to her seat at the opposite end. I looked around to see all the other guests standing about lightly chatting and sipping wine. Excuse me everyone, can we please take our seats? I'm sure everyone's hungry and we're ready to begin. Thank you.

[Grace]

Oh this looks fantastic. All we're missing is A turkey course? You'd say that.

[Troy]

Okay. Okay. Before we begin, I do want to say thank you to everyone for coming. This will hopefully be the beginning of something special as we look to expand and secure the area. I want to also thank my wife, Grace, for not only setting things up, but coming up with this idea. She realized that a dinner party would be a great way for all of us to come together and really discuss what needs to be done. I hated public speaking, so I was rushing through this. I tried to meet everyone's eyes at least once, but I was ready to sit. Hopefully we can do this often for the betterment of our community. Randy raised his glass in a joking manner, but everyone else followed suit. Thank you. Now, let's enjoy this feast.

[Grace]

Please don't even get me started on that. You know how long that'll take? I may have a green, but I don't have the time. Isn't it just more of the same? Yeah, but more is. Well, frankly, it's more demanding. I guess if I can find passionate people like myself, then sure, but I'm not counting on it. You think highly of yourself, huh? How great.

[Troy]

I watched all the individual conversations as I finished the last few bites on my plate.

[Cohen]

But she doesn't understand. Understand? Because she is not there.

[Grace]

I. I don't know.

[Cohen]

I just got tired of explaining it.

[Grace]

Don't even try. Some people don't want to listen even after they asked your opinion or expertise.

[Cohen]

Tell me about it.

[Troy]

I took the last bite of corn and leaned back in my seat. I wiped my mouth, not sure how we should proceed.

[Grace]

Can you imagine seeing something like that? I mean. He said, 40ft tall, like a dinosaur. I don't know. Seems made up. I don't think it is.

[Troy]

It seemed, for the most part, everyone was getting along, which was good. I didn't want to interrupt conversations. But then I got a look across the table at Grace. She glared at me over her wine glass. Okay, this was the time to start. Excuse me, everyone. The chatter instantly died down, and now, once again, all eyes were on me. My hands were sweaty. I wiped them on my napkin, then proceeded. Um, yes. Now that everyone's had a chance to eat this delicious food and everyone's become acquainted, I think it might be time to start talking about Bodega Bay. My eyes darted around the table, but no one spoke up. I then looked to Grace for help.

[Cohen]

Obviously, there's a lot to be said, so maybe we start with the most obvious first. Security.

[Troy]

Yes, that is. That is probably best. As you all know, we've decided to expand our borders a bit. Troy felt it would be a good move and I concurred. More and more people are showing up and the way things are set up now, well, they Troy, why don't you explain? He wiped his mouth and sat up straight.

[Grace]

Okay, I don't have a map handy, but I'm sure most will be able to follow along. Basically, we've decided to expand north past the campground so we can fill in that area. The campground holds the most trees and can be used as cover. And we've decided to expand south past the golf course because Randy here thinks we could use that land to grow crops, right? It'd be a good spot, sure, but I'll need a lot of help.

[Troy]

Randy was a short, stocky red headed man with freckles on both cheeks and big bushy eyebrows. Apparently he had a green thumb, but not much had come to fruition just yet. Granted, not too much time had passed.

[Grace]

And hey, I'll be upset as much as the next person that I won't be able to get a few rounds in. But hell, food's more important anyhow, right? Most of that grass is dead. Will the soil even be good enough? Sure you water enough, It'll be fine.

[Cohen]

And that's why Randy here is in charge of food and agriculture, right, dear?

[Troy]

Oh yeah, that's right. We feel it might be time to give job titles to everyone here.

[Grace]

Why?

[Troy]

What?

[Grace]

Why is that really necessary?

[Troy]

I think it'll make things easier if we make things official, don't you? The way we've been operating lately has been a little too, um.

[Cohen]

Lax, sure. Oh, I don't know about that.

[Troy]

Kalina, a tall, thin woman with glasses and hair down to her lower back, leaned forward. She pushed her plate to the side so she could rest her elbows.

[Cohen]

I think the contrary. You do.

[Troy]

Grace scoffed at Kalina's comment, which seemed to irk her, but that wasn't surprising. I often joked with Grace about how she was a woman hater. She denied it, but there were so many examples over the years. Sometimes it seemed to be pure jealousy. Other times I wasn't sure. Grace clasped her hands together and leaned forward on her elbows. She placed her chin on her knuckles and arched an eyebrow, feigning interest.

[Cohen]

Why's that, Kalina? Well, we already have a registration book and a housing department and suppliers. We have ration cards and even newly implemented curfews.

[Troy]

Curfews are just for expansion to keep the streets clear. I wouldn't bring up the last few excursions to the camp.

[Cohen]

Still, I think we're operating as best we can given the circumstances. So you don't think we should have job titles? We already have jobs. And some of us already have. Well, I guess you could call them management positions. What does that mean? Well, I think the reason we're all here is because you are looking for people to head certain departments, right? Yes. We want to make it official. We want things to run smoothly, smoother than they have been. I think having heads is fine, but I don't know if we are deserving of it. So you don't want to be fund manager? I don't know. I was a bookkeeper for an auto shop before this, but I don't know if that necessarily qualifies me to run a whole department. You can always bow out. I'm just saying I don't know if anyone here is necessarily the best person for the job.

[Grace]

Speak for yourself, woman.

[Cohen]

I'm speaking my opinion. And we all thank you for that.

[Troy]

Others may not have caught Grace's eye roll, but I did.

[Grace]

I think I have to agree with Kalina to an extent.

[Troy]

To what extent? Felix was an older guy, probably in his mid-50s. He had hair everywhere except his head, thick mustache and beard, hairy arms and black tight cuffs sticking up out of his shirt. I imagine if he was shirtless he would still look like he was wearing a sweater. He picked his teeth and leaned back.

[Grace]

I don't think we need job titles because I don't think they'll be worth much in a few months. What are you talking about? What do you mean this isn't going to last? What makes you say that?

[Troy]

For some reason, Troy seemed to be annoyed by Felix's input.

[Grace]

What do you mean? These alien creatures can't last here. The military will come in and wipe them out. Are you serious? Yeah, man. Do you not understand the severity of what's happening out there? Of course I know. Shit went south fast. But the military.

[Cohen]

The military is done. They're not coming back.

[Grace]

That's not true. Ask Tylen. Go ahead. Tell him what you told me.

[Troy]

Everyone turned to the shaved headed muscular man known as Tylan. He forced a smile and shrugged coolly, admiring the sudden interest, although I already knew some of what he was going to say.

[Grace]

We've picked up talks. Apparently the military is regrouping in sections of the US Talks? From who? People all over. Convoys have moved from the northwest and are heading to somewhere in Montana. At least that's what we're thinking.

[Troy]

How many?

[Grace]

Don't know.

[Troy]

Hyland had Been working with several others in an abandoned QZ booth by the highway. He'd been picking up transmissions for a while now. Months ago. It helped us locate potential supply depots.

[Grace]

I don't think we should be hinging anything on some radio chatter. It's military personnel, not Opie and Anthony.

[Troy]

Tyland didn't take kindly to Emil's jab. Emile was built, but not as much as Tylan. Emil had a surfer's body with long wavy hair to his shoulders and a big pointed nose. He put his silverware down even though he wasn't done with his meal.

[Grace]

I'm just saying, if the army and Navy and Marines couldn't do anything when this all started, then I doubt they'd be able to do anything now.

[Cohen]

Yeah, they abandoned this place because they couldn't handle it.

[Grace]

They shot down one of the spaceships. How do you know? Tylan heard it happened south, near San Diego.

[Troy]

So what?

[Grace]

There's a ton of them.

[Troy]

Bryson, a mid-40s, clean shaven military man himself, wasn't having any of it. He seemed to be on the same page as Troy and Emil. Was it coincidence that they were all in agreement and they were all about to be promoted with security jobs? Troy was about to be promoted to Chief supply Officer too, while Emil would be security officer south of Smith Brothers Road and Bryson would be in charge north of the road.

[Grace]

The point is, the military is still around and kicking, but there's no guarantee that they'll get control of everything. Yeah, I agree with Bryson. We can hope for a good outcome, but we shouldn't count on it. You see a lot of danger on the high seas? I've been up and down the coast. I've been near San Francisco. Have you? It's pretty bad out there.

[Cohen]

That's why we need to move forward with operations and make this a sustainable place to live and thrive.

[Grace]

I agree.

[Troy]

Nice to know most people were in agreement. Spencer was in Harbor Patrol and would soon be leader of it.

[Cohen]

Good. No one here is forced to take the positions Cohen has created for them.

[Troy]

That's right. Grace looked at Kalina first, then Felix and Tylan.

[Cohen]

But we do need people to run things. It's too much for Cohen. Having dedicated second in commands could help streamline work and communications.

[Grace]

If things really are as bad as most here believe, then what chance do we have if one of those ships comes floating over the bay? I mean, at that point we're fucked, right? I'd say so.

[Cohen]

So your suggestion is to just give up now?

[Troy]

We can't do that. We have to fortify this place as best as possible. We'll deal with the issues as they arise.

[Grace]

Which actually brings to attention an issue I have.

[Troy]

What's that, Bryson?

[Grace]

A friend of mine army said that one of the new guys told him about creatures known as behemoths. That's the third time in the last two weeks I've heard about them. Big hulking 40 foot dinosaurs. That can take a lot of firepower. The way this guy made it seem. We've been very fortunate here so far, only having to deal with Thrashers and shriekers. If those creatures advance, we will seriously be caught off guard. Especially with an expansion.

[Troy]

What are you saying?

[Grace]

I don't think expanding to the Bodega Dunes Road is a wise decision. Here we go.

[Troy]

Apparently Bryson and Emil differed in opinion here.

[Grace]

Listen, I've talked to survivors. Not just this new guy, but anyone who's traveled far to get here. We do not only have to worry about Thrashers, Shriekers and people. He's right. But the move across the campground is so that we acquire and secure the whole area. What about south? Bodega is split into basically two QZs, connected only by the highway. And the highway doesn't have enough protection. Do we really need the south area? I mean, we have the bay. What about that golf course and all that land?

[Cohen]

It's just more land to protect.

[Troy]

So what, Bryson, are you opposed to the expansion?

[Grace]

I think we need more people.

[Cohen]

We already have a lot. Supplies are often running low.

[Grace]

We need more guards, more builders. We need to move quicker than we have. We could be attacked any day. We shouldn't push our luck. And we need more material. Vehicles, fencing, whatever we can get. Do we even have enough weapons and ammunition to take care of a 40 foot dinosaur? We do, but I don't know if we have enough people that know how to shoot. We should start a training program. Volunteers aren't enough.

[Cohen]

Who says anyone will want to train? Training will mean being put on the front line of defense.

[Grace]

Give them more perks. Anyone who puts in real time and effort into this place should get perks.

[Cohen]

Uh, okay, who dictates what is real time and effort?

[Grace]

Oh, come on, Kalina.

[Cohen]

What?

[Grace]

Don't start with that liberal bullshit. You know what I mean.

[Cohen]

We actually were discussing changing prices on certain products. Right, Cohen?

[Troy]

Oh, yeah, I guess.

[Cohen]

And what will that accomplish? People who run things like ourselves and the people who put their lives on the line, like the guards can get paid more. Oh, I. I'm glad we're included.

[Grace]

Shouldn't we be See, now that makes sense.

[Cohen]

Guards already get perks.

[Grace]

They can get more. And so can we. Again. Will this all even matter if a ship comes?

[Cohen]

Maybe we can create bunkers for people to hide in that work for you, Felix.

[Grace]

Bunkers? Here?

[Cohen]

We would never be able to build enough to fit everyone. It doesn't have to fit everyone.

[Troy]

I hated the way she said that right before shrugging and taking another sip of wine.

[Grace]

We could make an escape route.

[Troy]

Where?

[Grace]

North, along the coast. No good. I'm just trying to think of options to ease Felix's concern. Don't worry about me. I'm just here for the fine food. Had to poo poo all the ideas. You, Kalina and Tylan should create your own society in Santa Rosa, start a socialist program and wait for the inevitable blast from an alien ship.

[Troy]

Felix chuckled silently to himself, ignoring Randy's quip. He then scooped some more canned mixed fruit into his bowl. Okay, so more recruits, more builders, more supplies and a training program. What else? The conversation continued for a good two hours. Grace even got up halfway through to get coffee and danishes for everyone for dessert. Around 11, everyone finally left and I helped Grace clear the table.

[Cohen]

I think the dinner went well, don't you?

[Troy]

Sure.

[Cohen]

Although that damn Felix didn't help anything. Nothing but lies coming out of him.

[Troy]

Yeah, he does seem to have a different outlook on this whole situation.

[Cohen]

And don't even get me started on Kalina.

[Troy]

What about her?

[Cohen]

Nothing but negativity. If she doesn't want a title, Cohen, we shouldn't give her one.

[Troy]

I followed Grace as she stormed into the kitchen. We doled out the titles along with expectations for the coming month. Everyone had five days to decide whether to accept or not. Where do you want these? There was no more room in the sink for any more dishes on the counter.

[Cohen]

I'll get them tomorrow. Do you disagree?

[Troy]

About what?

[Cohen]

About Kalina. Maybe we should ask someone else.

[Troy]

We already gave her the option. We can't retract now. Don't worry. I think she'll come around.

[Cohen]

But do we need her to? It's fun management. Anyone who knows basic math can handle that. What about the blonde guy with the earring?

[Troy]

I don't know who you're talking about.

[Cohen]

Yes, you do. I'm sure he could do it. I like him a lot better than Kalina anyways.

[Troy]

I followed Grace back into the dining room to grab the rest of the dishes.

[Cohen]

Overall, though, it was good. I think we should do this often. Maybe twice a month. And really make this our own.

[Troy]

Haven't we Already?

[Cohen]

What does that mean?

[Troy]

Nothing. I picked up more plates and silverware and glasses and followed Grace back into the kitchen.

[Cohen]

Hey, I was thinking.

[Troy]

Yeah?

[Cohen]

Maybe you should talk to those guys Bryson mentioned. The ones who traveled across the country. And he mentioned others. Because if they're telling the truth, I don't know how comfortable I feel being over here. At least right now, until the fence is up.

[Troy]

There are guards all along the road, like always.

[Cohen]

But you heard Bryson, and Troy backed him up.

[Troy]

We haven't had any issues since we moved in, Grace.

[Cohen]

It only takes one time. Spencer said San Francisco is bad and getting worse. If we really want to make this place secure, then we need to be able to handle anything, and that includes giant dinosaur creatures.

[Troy]

What about ships?

[Cohen]

What?

[Troy]

What about spaceships? I disagreed with much of what Felix said tonight, but he does have a point about the ships. If they come hovering through bunkers, sure, we can try that. It'll take a long time to set them up, but we can try it. Still, there's no guarantee we'd be able to even get out of them afterwards. The place could be overrun.

[Cohen]

If the place is overrun, I already have a plan for that.

[Troy]

You do?

[Cohen]

Yes.

[Troy]

She spun to face me, her earrings jingling with her sudden movement.

[Cohen]

We take a boat. We take a boat and sail away.

[Troy]

And what about all of this?

[Cohen]

If the creatures come and we can't fight back, then we forget all of this. Why do you think I took Spencer aside before he left? I told him I wanted him to keep a boat docked outside the bay for us. A good one, just in case.

[Troy]

You did?

[Cohen]

Yeah. Troy thought it was a good idea, too.

[Troy]

You told Troy?

[Cohen]

Of course.

[Troy]

When were you going to mention any of this to me?

[Cohen]

I'm telling you now, Cohen.

[Troy]

I was taken aback, but she didn't look too surprised by my reaction. She brushed past me and back into the dining room. Did you. Did you tell anyone else? She was wiping the table with some disinfectant wipes but stopped to look up at me.

[Cohen]

No. No one else needs to know. I just did it as a precaution anyway.

[Troy]

As a precaution?

[Cohen]

Yes, I agree with your assessment. Felix was a jackass. Denying. But what he said about the ships. Well, it's all a precaution.

[Troy]

We stared at each other a moment. I wasn't sure how I felt about this, but also I wasn't sure I should feel any certain way about it. As she went back to wiping the table, I stood there watching her. Something about the way she was acting just didn't sit right with me, but I let it go for end of all Hope Written by Robert M. Lamb Edited by Ashley Cartisano Starring Hope Ennis as Ava Adam Jetmore as Jay Jack Austin as Ambridge Gina Coyle as Kylie Ariel Hack as Mia Brett Wilkins as Travis Stacey golden as Chris Logan Ferdinand as Dana Ian Feller as Hudson Mike Lenhart as Grant Veronica Wolfarth as as Grace and Brian Messick as Cohen Co starring Zilong Zhao, Mitchell Lee, Gail Sullivan, Dennis Caldwell, Austin Medlin, David Quique, Wesley Morris, Chris Lindsey, Clifton Smith, Nick Keeney, Pachta and Zane Bowman Music provided by [e-mail] madebytaco additional tracks found@artlist IO and pond5.com if you enjoy this podcast, don't forget to rate and review we now have merch. You can visit 7Lamb.com to find two separate stores that sell different 7Lamb merch including shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, loot, boxes and more. Or you can go directly to the [e-mail] or 7lamb.threadless.com Also, if you'd like to help us out, we are on Patreon. You can go to patreon.com 7Lamb the number 7Lamb and you can donate as little as a dollar a month. We do have multiple tiers to choose from with different perks including bonus episodes, bloopers, behind the scenes, podcasts, live streams and more. Once again, that's patreon.com 7Lamb the number 7Lamb we also want to thank everyone who has donated either via PayPal or Patreon. We appreciate the support. Special shout out to seven lamb patrons Brad McQuaid, Bradley Williams, Carter Jewell, Kelly Foles, Chris Williamson, aiden Holmes and Danielplays99.

[Grace]

From everyone here at Seven Lamb. Thank you.

[Troy]

This has been a Seven Lamb production.