S6E6: The Purpose

Summary

Podcast Summary: "End of All Hope" Season 6, Episode 6: The Purpose

Podcast: End of All Hope
Production: Bloody FM / Seven Lamb Productions
Episode Date: September 24, 2025

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Overview

In this tension-filled episode titled "The Purpose," the survivors of the alien invasion take refuge in a new, uncertain settlement after fleeing White Ranch. Amidst continued threat from aliens and hostile human factions, the group grapples with loss, leadership struggles, fractured loyalties, and the difficult choices that survival demands. The episode centers on themes of purpose, moral ambiguity, and the thin margin separating saviors from villains in an apocalyptic world.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Adjusting to the New Settlement (02:22–07:13)

• Jess and the narrator (likely Chris or Tabitha) find an abandoned camper and reflect on their emotional states and the trauma of recent losses, particularly the pain of leaving White Ranch and missing loved ones.
  • The camper triggers personal memories:

    "The camper reminded her of White Ranch. It reminded her of her dad." – Jess (03:51)

• The struggle to decide whether to stay in the new town or seek another place mirrors the group’s uncertainty and collective exhaustion.
• Discovery of canned food offers brief respite and a reminder of past fortunes:

  "Guess we hit the jackpot. It was nice to have something work in our favor." – Jess (04:08)

2. Leadership Challenges and Survivors’ Dilemmas (08:12–15:02)

• Travis, Hudson, and Kenny discuss leadership burdens, survivor guilt, and logistical issues of securing the settlement.
  • Travis wrestles with the loss of Mia and other friends:

    "Mia, Gail, Annie, Harlow and Dana are almost likely dead. And Terrell’s been shot." – Travis (08:53)

  • Hudson maintains cautious optimism, focusing on practical needs like vehicles and defenses.
• The complexity of communicating with survivors and keeping dangerous secrets is highlighted:
  • The debate over whether to tell Chris about Mia’s fate drives home the group’s moral burden.

    "Telling her she’s alive is even worse. We don’t know how things are going to play out." – Travis (14:20)

• The need for protection is discussed, including building barricades or walls (10:55–11:17).

3. Frayed Relationships and Loyalties (19:20–22:39)

• Kenny and Hudson bond over their unwanted leadership roles:

  "You know, I didn’t ask to be a part of this. I was happy just doing security." – Kenny (20:06)
  "And I was happy being a mechanic. ... It was my way of helping out." – Hudson (20:10)

• They share concerns over Chris finding out about Mia, debating honesty versus safety for the group.
  • "If you want to tell them, then tell them." – Hudson (21:40)
  • Kenny dreads losing Chris’s trust if someone else reveals the truth first.

4. The Prisoners’ Perspective: Control, Purpose, & Humanity (24:01–27:54)

• Mia and other captured survivors (including Grant) are made to work and kept under surveillance.
• Frustration mounts about being locked up, and the group confronts the reality that their captors may never let them go (25:19–27:54).
• Hayden emerges as the antagonist, debating with Mia about whether captivity is justified for security reasons.

5. What Is ‘The Purpose’? Moral Philosophy in the Apocalypse (33:16–42:27)

• The central philosophical exchange between Mia and Hayden.
• Hayden argues that their actions are justified by a greater goal, rooted in hope that the military will return and save them all.
  • "There is no forever. Not with the aliens." – Hayden (34:14)
  • "They won’t [be here forever]... They’ll be forced [out]." – Hayden (34:29)
  • He justifies holding Mia and others captive, insisting the military’s plan to retake Earth is real.

    "Because I know... the military is still around, still fighting." – Hayden (36:13)

  • Believes the aliens’ comet attack caught humanity off guard, but claims a resurgence is coming (37:00–37:11).
• Mia refutes Hayden’s justification, calling out the cycle of human betrayal and violence:
  • "You follow in every lame footstep of tired ass shows that relied on the whole man is the most dangerous evil trope." – Mia (39:12)
  • Hayden rejects being cast as a villain and insists he's just doing what’s needed to survive—an argument Mia dismisses as cliché.
• The sequence ends with Hayden revealing he, too, was once a Ranger, blurring the line between friend and foe (42:01).

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Jess’s Grief:

  "I just miss dad and Mia." (07:05–07:13)

• Travis on Command:

  "The world’s still ending, Travis. Things aren’t going to get easier because you want them to." – Kenny (30:43)

• Hayden’s Philosophy:

  "There is no forever. Not with the aliens." (34:14)
  "Purpose. What is the purpose for doing the things I and my buddies are doing?... I guess I can trust them well enough." (33:53)

• Mia’s Defiance:

  "Spare me the cliche bullshit... acting like you’ll have a heart after the aliens are disposed of." (39:07–39:12)

• Revelation:

  "I too was a Ranger." – Hayden (42:01)

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Timestamps for Major Segments

• 02:22–07:13 – Settling down in the camper, grappling with trauma and loss.
• 08:12–15:02 – Travis, Hudson, and Kenny discuss leadership, safety, and moral quandaries.
• 19:20–22:39 – Kenny and Hudson deal with the stress of leadership and the dilemma over telling Chris about Mia.
• 24:01–27:54 – A view from inside the captives’ rooms, their resentment, and their conversations with Grant and Hayden.
• 33:16–42:27 – Mia and Hayden’s central dialogue about purpose, morality, and survival in the apocalypse.

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Overall Tone

The episode’s tone is bleak and serious, laced with bitter humor and weary resignation. Characters speak with exhaustion and guarded hope. Emotional wounds and ethical ambiguities are forefront, as survival forces even good people into choices they cannot justify.

The title, "The Purpose," is directly debated; what keeps people going, what lines do they cross, and how do they keep believing there’s something more than just survival—these are the haunting questions of this installment.

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This summary highlights all critical themes, inter-character tensions, and the philosophical heart of the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Travis]

From Bloody fm, Step into a mysterious shop where every object has a sordid tale to tell. You have plunged so deep into the depths of despair. Meet the antique dealer and a rotating cast of the best in horror.

[Kenny]

I didn't believe in stuff like this. This wasn't real.

[Travis]

Mike Flanagan, Kate Siegel, David Desmulchen, Jocelyn Donahue and more. The antiquarium of sinister happenings and odd goings on. No refunds, no exc. Experience it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Today's episode is sponsored by. I know what you did last summer. Get it now on digital. When five friends inadvertently cause a deadly car accident, they cover up their involvement and make a pact to keep it a secret rather than face the consequences. A year later, their past comes back to haunt them and they're forced to confront a horrifying truth. Someone knows what they did last summer and is hell bent on revenge. As one by one, the friends are stalked by a killer, they discover this happened before, so they turn to two survivors of the legendary Southport massacre of 1997 for help. Starring Madeleine Cline Chase Sue Wonders. Jonah Hauer King. With Freddie Prinze Jr. And Jennifer Love Hewitt. I know what you did last summer is a perfect summer slasher, says Jordan Crucciolo of npr. Your summer is not yet. Don't miss a killer movie night at home.

[Narrator/Producer]

Seven Lamb Productions presents End of All.

[Travis]

Hope.

[Narrator/Producer]

Season 6 Episode 6 the Purpose.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Anything?

[Jess]

One second.

[Mia]

Okay?

[Jess]

Yeah, we're okay. We had found an abandoned camper off the main road where most of the convoy was. It was getting late and I wanted to find a nice spot to sleep for the night. Somewhere away from the chaos of the still riled up people.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Is it okay if we stay here?

[Jess]

Why not?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's just. What about everyone else?

[Jess]

There were people already sleeping inside some of those homes. And I'm just not sure how people are going to take staying here. So I think it's best if we keep to ourselves right now.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay?

[Jess]

She locked the door. Hesitated a moment. What? She seemed to swallow hard as she turned to face me. But she wasn't looking at me. Her eyes were moving around the inside of the camper. You okay?

[Narrator/Announcer]

This rv, it reminds me of. Oh, shoot.

[Jess]

I'm sorry, honey. I wasn't thinking.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's okay.

[Jess]

No, we can look for something else. We can try the house right over there. Or make our way.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No, really, it's fine.

[Jess]

The camper reminded her of White Ranch. It reminded her of her dad. You sure?

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'm sure.

[Jess]

She forced A smile as she made her way to the cupboards.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's canned food in here. Lots of it.

[Jess]

And just like that, her mood had changed. I still felt bad, but I didn't want to mention it any further. Guess we hit the jackpot. It was nice to have something work in our favor. Ever since we left White Ranch, it was one bad thing after another.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We get to have a good dinner tonight, huh?

[Jess]

Yeah, we do. With sides of veggies and fruit.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Did you hear that?

[Jess]

No, what?

[Narrator/Announcer]

My stomach. It's growling. I wasn't that hungry before, but now I am.

[Jess]

Some of these have pop tops, but not all of them. Let's see if they have a can opener, too. As we searched, I could see Jess stopping every so often and turning to me like she wanted to say something, but kept stopping herself. Obviously, she was still having feelings about the camper. So I decided to ask. Hey, Jess.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah?

[Jess]

Is there something on your mind? I told you we can find another place.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, no, it's not that.

[Jess]

She stared out the window at the row of small houses and barren landscape behind them.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Are we really staying here for good? In this town?

[Mia]

Oh.

[Jess]

I don't know yet. With what's happened to the base and with. I had to force myself not to cry. And with Mia and the others, there's no telling what's in store for right now. We're just going to have to make do.

[Narrator/Announcer]

But there's no cover here.

[Jess]

Travis made sure guards are on patrol. But you're right, this isn't the ideal endpoint.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Do you think we should have stayed at White Ranch?

[Jess]

That was a hard question since Mia was the one who had wanted to head north and I was the one who pushed her to help with the convoy. Now I was filled with regret. I think just noticed.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I know we had to leave because the alien plants were moving in, but now with everything.

[Jess]

Listen, we took a chance and some really horrible things have happened. Right now, all we can do is keep going. She nodded and turned to the stack of canned food she had pulled from one of the cupboards.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay.

[Jess]

Hey, let's see how things pan out, okay?

[Narrator/Announcer]

I just miss dad and Mia.

[Jess]

Again. I tried to keep from crying. Me too. I wanted to remain optimistic, even though Tyrell's story didn't paint a pretty picture for Mia. So once again, I decided to just push my feelings aside and focus on the now. And right now, we needed to eat. Maybe tomorrow Travis and company would learn more about the base and this place.

[Hudson]

So what, this is your new office?

[Travis]

It's as Good as any.

[Hudson]

Not too big.

[Travis]

Roger operated out of an rv.

[Hudson]

True.

[Travis]

Hudson walked over to me with the liquor bottle in hand.

[Hudson]

Here. Brought you something.

[Travis]

What is it?

[Hudson]

Gin.

[Travis]

I hate gin.

[Hudson]

Even after today?

[Travis]

I said I hate it. Not that I wouldn't drink it. I took the bottle as Hudson sat across from me. I was back in the small town hall building, which looked just like any other house on the dirt road. Today was a day.

[Hudson]

I know you're feeling rough right now, but it could have been a lot worse.

[Travis]

Mia, Gail, Annie, Harlow and Dana are almost likely dead. And Terrail's been shot.

[Hudson]

Sure, but the other 1200 people are safe. Mia and Gail and the rest knew what they were getting into.

[Travis]

Doesn't make it better.

[Hudson]

Maybe not, but we were stuck. We had to figure out something. Now we don't have thrashers to deal with.

[Travis]

No, but the bandits.

[Hudson]

The bandits don't know where we are.

[Travis]

You believe that?

[Hudson]

Come on, man. Give me something.

[Travis]

Okay.

[Hudson]

Here.

[Travis]

I passed the bottle to him, even though I knew that's not what he meant. Where'd you get that?

[Hudson]

Some good news. This place seems to be well stocked. Ira and Rhett found this and a home up the road. I actually think they found a lot more.

[Travis]

Keeping it for themselves, probably. There's a lot of vehicles here.

[Hudson]

That there is. I'm thinking we do a thorough walkthrough tomorrow. See if we can get any of these vehicles up and running. Hell, I saw several classics just sitting in driveways. They're probably all good.

[Travis]

Most I've seen is trucks.

[Hudson]

Sure, they're out there, too.

[Travis]

The town's a decent size, right?

[Hudson]

It's actually two towns. Encampment and Riverside.

[Travis]

That's right.

[Hudson]

Wasn't there a town up by the base?

[Travis]

Yeah. I forgot the name, but I remember Roger mentioning it. Thought it could come in handy if the base couldn't fit everyone.

[Hudson]

Well, see, bandits won't come down this far. Then they won't need to.

[Travis]

Unless they want to retaliate.

[Hudson]

But maybe they won't.

[Travis]

Hudson handed me the bottle and I drank some more. God, Jen sucks.

[Hudson]

I like it.

[Travis]

Take it. I gave it back to Hudson. I'm done.

[Hudson]

Suit yourself. I guess you don't need to be too fucked up for tomorrow. You have a lot to do.

[Travis]

Don't remind me.

[Hudson]

It shouldn't be too bad.

[Travis]

Like my address to the people?

[Hudson]

Just send out a couple of hunters and scouts and go from there.

[Travis]

Yeah, but then what? But. Hudson just shrugged and took another drink.

[Hudson]

I think at some point we should.

[Travis]

Build a wall around the Whole town. That will take forever.

[Hudson]

Maybe just around Riverside. I don't think it would be feasible to surround all of encampment too. But we need protection out here. Sure. There's some woods east of us and the river, but everything else is prairie. Another herd of thrashers moved through. We need to be ready. Like the base.

[Travis]

That was something, huh?

[Hudson]

It was. But we need to forget about it right now.

[Travis]

I know. People were so upset, but what did they expect?

[Hudson]

You can't make everyone happy.

[Travis]

At least Chris came around bitchy. Now she's not happy, but she's content. Her and Terrell.

[Hudson]

Wonder how long that'll last.

[Travis]

Hopefully long enough for us to build a wall. Just then the door swung open and San came running in.

[Hudson]

Hey, Travis.

[Travis]

What is it? Dana's back. Hudson and I shared a quick look, then jumped from our seats and ran out.

[Hayden]

Following sand Sam?

[Kenny]

Yeah, well, that's what he said.

[Travis]

We were outside in a random driveway sitting in the bed of a broken down truck. A truck that wasn't far from all of our parked vehicles and trailers. I can't believe it.

[Hudson]

What do we do?

[Travis]

What can we do? You heard Dana. If we try anything, they'll kill Mia.

[Kenny]

In the way they've worked over Keaton, I don't think they're bluffing.

[Travis]

Dana also looked like he was worked over, but apparently that was from his tumble off the bike.

[Hudson]

How far away is the base?

[Kenny]

Shit. I'd say it's close to 10 miles away, if not a little more. It was quite the walk.

[Hudson]

Yeah, maybe 12 or 13 miles.

[Travis]

San, you were there. You saw the base. Yeah, but the guy told Dana not to come within 10 miles of the base on any side. Is us being here breaking that rule?

[Kenny]

No, I don't think so.

[Hudson]

Yeah. Doubt they'll plan to use measuring tape.

[Kenny]

As long as we don't head north anymore, I think we're fine.

[Travis]

Dana rubbed the large lump on his head.

[Mia]

Think they'll come looking for us?

[Kenny]

I don't think so.

[Travis]

Tabitha was with us too. She was the first one to come see Dana while on patrol. It was late, maybe two. Half the guards were out walking around, half were sleeping. Shifts would switch soon.

[Kenny]

I'm lucky I found you guys ended up following the river.

[Hudson]

Well, if they're far enough away and they don't want any trouble and. And we don't want any more trouble, looks like we stay put.

[Travis]

Dana took another swig of gin and nodded.

[Kenny]

I think it's best until we find out about Mia.

[Mia]

But how long do we have to wait?

[Kenny]

He Wouldn't say.

[Mia]

And what about the others? The rangers and their people? I doubt Keaton, Grant and any others want to be there.

[Kenny]

If we show our face, if they see any of us. Mia's dead. I don't know what happens to the others.

[Hudson]

Travis.

[Travis]

Yeah.

[Hudson]

What about Chris?

[Kenny]

Yeah. What do we tell her?

[Travis]

Nothing. Right now.

[Mia]

Nothing?

[Travis]

Nothing.

[Hudson]

Oh, come on, Travis.

[Kenny]

We have to tell her.

[Hudson]

Yeah. We can't let her go on thinking she's dead.

[Travis]

Telling her she's alive is even worse. We don't know how things are going to play out. Everyone fell silent for a moment.

[Mia]

So then, are we really staying here for good?

[Hudson]

I mean, it's not horrible. We have homes, land, the river and no alien vegetation. It's not the base, but it could be worse.

[Travis]

Hudson. Always with the optimism. I was so unsure of everything, but I couldn't say that.

[Kenny]

But we have to tell Chris eventually.

[Travis]

We will. Just not yet. Dana didn't seem to like that.

[Mia]

So what do we do now?

[Hudson]

Make do. Turn this back into a livable town.

[Travis]

Let me have some of that.

[Hudson]

I thought you hated gin.

[Travis]

I do. But I needed it. I took the bottle from Dana and Dr.

[Hayden]

Ty, y'.

[Mia]

All.

[Hudson]

Hayden.

[Hayden]

When did you get back?

[Ty]

Recently.

[Hayden]

Any updates?

[Ty]

On what?

[Hayden]

What the hell were you doing the last few days?

[Ty]

Oh, yeah. Nothing happened.

[Hayden]

Jesus, Ty. Communication is key here.

[Ty]

Sorry. I figured I'd report something if it was important. But the switch went well and we did it far enough away that.

[Hayden]

Ty, I want updates the moment anyone gets back. If nothing happens, great. Fucking tell me. Got it?

[Ty]

Sure. Yeah.

[Hayden]

It's not like I'm asking you to keep a journal.

[Ty]

No, I know.

[Hayden]

So? Nothing. After the guy got back, he talked.

[Ty]

With some people for a bit, drank some gin. That's all.

[Hayden]

That's what you saw?

[Ty]

No, I didn't go in. He's seen my face. That's what Ivy told me she saw. She couldn't get close enough to hear anything, though.

[Hayden]

All right. Just keep me updated.

[Ty]

Wait. Does this mean I'm in charge of this? Of the monitoring?

[Hayden]

Not if you're gonna suck at communicating.

[Ty]

Sorry.

[Hayden]

I just want to know about any movement or any talks from now on.

[Ty]

Sure thing.

[Hayden]

Good.

[Hudson]

Oh.

[Hayden]

What?

[Ty]

I do have something else for you.

[Hayden]

Of course you do. What, information?

[Ty]

No, just that we found a wheelchair.

[Hayden]

When?

[Ty]

While I waited for the switch. Some small home off of 2:30.

[Hayden]

Ty, do I need to put Vic in charge?

[Ty]

No.

[Hayden]

Well, if you can't remember shit, how am I supposed to rely?

[Ty]

I didn't forget. I mean, not fully. I just. I I was hungry. I just woke up. And when I got back, you were asleep. And I talked to Kevin, but he said.

[Hayden]

All right, all right, all right. Damn. Just go get the wheelchair and bring it to medical.

[Mia]

Uh, okay.

[Hayden]

You can do it after you finish eating that work.

[Ty]

Yeah, okay.

[Hayden]

Just hurry up.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This week's episode is sponsored by Bleecker street and LD Entertainment's new horror film, Bone Lake. When two unsuspecting couples double book a secluded lakeside estate, what begins as a romantic getaway quickly split spirals into blood soaked mayhem. Deadly secrets, brutal betrayals and fatal desires rise to the surface as the night plunges into a fever dream of gore camp and erotic terror in what bloody disgusting calls a goddamn blast. From start to finish comes a film that rises above its genre conventions, twisting them on their heads in a deviously playful way. Drenched in style, splattered in blood, and unapologetically unhinged, Bone Lake is the sexiest, scariest party of the year. And you're invited. Experience Bone Lake. Exclusively in theaters October 3rd. Tickets are on sale now.

[Hudson]

Hey.

[Kenny]

How the hell you find me?

[Hudson]

Kenny told me he saw you walk this way, but he said it was like an hour ago. Why are you sitting here?

[Kenny]

I needed to get away from all the commotion for a little bit. I was sitting on a flat wooden fence that surrounded a large chunk of trees and even some cattle.

[Hudson]

It's pretty awesome that we have livestock.

[Kenny]

Yeah. Three days had passed since I got back. Things had gotten chaotic as people scrambled for homes and supplies. So much for trying to keep everybody in Riverside Hudson hopped up next to me.

[Hudson]

Travis wants some advice.

[Kenny]

He always does. The guy struggles to make decisions.

[Hudson]

Oh, he makes them.

[Kenny]

Sorry. I mean, he struggles to make good decisions.

[Hudson]

That's why he needs us.

[Kenny]

You know, I didn't ask to be a part of this. I was happy just doing security.

[Hudson]

And I was happy being a mechanic. It's the one thing from my life before the aliens that I was able to apply to this slowly transforming apocalyptic world. It was my way of helping out.

[Kenny]

But now.

[Hudson]

Now I help Travis make decisions. But you, buddy, you're his right hand man.

[Kenny]

That's what I mean. I don't always want to be.

[Hudson]

I know. But I think we're stuck. You more than me. I'm serious. Travis respects your opinion.

[Kenny]

So did Roger. I just wish Mia also did.

[Hudson]

Why do you say that?

[Kenny]

Because I thought she would have done a better job in charge. Roger thought that too.

[Hudson]

Well, now we're stuck with Travis, which isn't all that bad. But if you want to plan A. Caesars like death to take over.

[Kenny]

No, I don't want the job.

[Hudson]

Me either. So I guess we'll just stick with Travis for the meantime.

[Kenny]

Why change it up now?

[Hudson]

Okay, but you can't leave me with him.

[Kenny]

You don't want to be his right hand man.

[Hudson]

I don't like being with Travis unless you're there.

[Kenny]

What happens if I decide to eventually drop out and go back to just security the way it was in White Ranch? You wouldn't want to go back to being the town mechanic. There are a lot of vehicles here.

[Hudson]

And plenty that run. I may go back to it when things settle down. But right now we're a bit exposed and we still don't know if we're truly safe. So you can still be security. You just have to take that with a bit more responsibility.

[Hayden]

Right?

[Hudson]

I mean, just look at all this room we have to protect, all this land.

[Kenny]

He was motioning to everything around us, but stopped when he faced the small camper.

[Hudson]

Oh, what? That's why you're here? That's where Chris and Jess are staying, isn't it?

[Kenny]

Yeah.

[Hudson]

Shit, man. If you want to tell them, then tell them.

[Kenny]

What do you think?

[Hudson]

I don't know. I think Chris should know. But I'm worried when she does, she'll try to form a small group, probably with the help of Terrell, to take all our working vehicles and charge the base.

[Kenny]

Which is why I haven't said anything yet. But I've talked to her twice now since I've been back. She asked about Mia. I hate lying.

[Hudson]

I get it. I do. But there's a lot on our plate right now.

[Kenny]

I just don't know how long I can keep it to myself.

[Hudson]

There is the possibility someone else brings it up. Like Tabitha or Son. They were there too.

[Kenny]

That would make it worse. Chris would never trust me again.

[Hudson]

Well, you can count on me keeping my mouth shut and Travis won't say a damn thing. So the only advice I have is to not think about it. Right now. Let's focus on securing our new home. Let's focus on security.

[Kenny]

Yeah.

[Hudson]

Come on. Travis is still waiting on advice. Let's help him make some good decisions.

[Kenny]

I heard you told him you want to build a wall around the whole town.

[Hudson]

Maybe not an actual wall, but some kind of barricade. No.

[Kenny]

You know how long that would take?

[Hudson]

I sat around Riverside. Just Riverside.

[Kenny]

Oh, okay.

[Hudson]

Hey, man. We thought you were dead. I was just throwing out some ideas. Obviously I'm not cut out for this Right hand man stuff, so.

[Kenny]

You're glad I made it back?

[Hudson]

I think everyone is. No one wants that position.

[Kenny]

Yeah, even me.

[Mia]

I propped myself up on my elbow, but when reaching for my water bottle, accidentally knocked it over, rolled a good five feet before coming to rest against the corner shelf. Dammit.

[Hayden]

I got it.

[Mia]

Grant came in, his face red. What's up with you? That from the sun or just built up anger?

[Travis]

Little.

[Hayden]

Both.

[Travis]

They're having us rearrange the stock rooms.

[Mia]

Stockrooms are outside?

[Travis]

No, but we had to move some stuff outside first.

[Kenny]

They had a bunch of new supplies.

[Mia]

He grabbed my water bottle and brought it over to me. Thanks.

[Travis]

They've been collecting all this shit.

[Kenny]

They've been making us all organize it.

[Mia]

Huh. I thought this place was already stocked.

[Travis]

It is, but I guess they still have people going out on occasion.

[Mia]

And your people are still locked up?

[Kenny]

Yes.

[Mia]

He said it with such contempt I felt Grant harbored anger for us for not reaching this place in time and was reluctant to let it go. Have you tried talking to him?

[Hayden]

Him?

[Hudson]

Hayden?

[Mia]

Yeah.

[Kenny]

It does no good.

[Mia]

So you have tried?

[Kenny]

Several times.

[Mia]

He sat across from me.

[Hudson]

He thinks if he lets too many.

[Travis]

Of us out, we'll revolt.

[Mia]

Have you asked him to let you go? Leave this place?

[Travis]

I have. Recently.

[Kenny]

He says no. What are your people gonna do?

[Mia]

My people, they.

[Travis]

They have to do something.

[Kenny]

They helped with a zone.

[Travis]

Like they could help here.

[Mia]

Yeah, now I was a little annoyed. You know, Grant made it seem like Travis and the rest owed him. Okay, Grant, they have to worry about their own. But they know I'm here. They know about you and your people. Dana will tell them. They'll do something.

[Hayden]

No, they won't.

[Mia]

Hayden was standing in the doorway.

[Hayden]

They wouldn't risk your life.

[Mia]

So what's the purpose of this, then? Hmm? You can't keep these people locked up forever. You can't just keep me here.

[Hayden]

Well, first off, sure I can. If it means our safety. There's no doubt in my mind that I could make it a reality. But I don't believe in forever.

[Mia]

Hmm. What does that mean?

[Hayden]

Let's get you something to eat and have a chat. Yeah.

[Mia]

You know, I'm not hungry.

[Hayden]

It's best not to turn down my offers when they're presented. Because they are presented often. Right, Grant?

[Mia]

I looked over to Grant, who didn't respond and instead looked down at the ground as if in shame.

[Hayden]

Ty.

[Mia]

A young guy with curly hair, came wheeling in a wheelchair.

[Hayden]

I know Naomi and Grant have had a tough time with the injuries. And from what I hear, you may have a hard Time walking. You never did find that last fragment, did you, Grant?

[Travis]

No. And Naomi tried.

[Kenny]

She really tried.

[Mia]

I had been in and out of surgery for the last couple of days. Or was it three? Or more? I couldn't tell. And there were no clocks in here. All I knew was that I was exhausted and had taken so many drugs to ease the pain that all I wanted to do was run. But I wouldn't get that comfort now, apparently.

[Hayden]

What the hell you doing, Ty?

[Ty]

Testing it out.

[Mia]

The young kid was sitting in the wheelchair, spinning around.

[Hayden]

Get out.

[Ty]

Sorry.

[Mia]

That's for me.

[Hayden]

You rather use crutches?

[Mia]

I'd rather walk.

[Hayden]

I told you that's unlikely to happen. And even if you could limp your way out of this room, I feel it best not to do anything too strenuous. Isn't that right? Right.

[Travis]

She needs rest.

[Kenny]

Lots of rest.

[Hayden]

Grant, you look like you got some sun. We have sunscreen. Make sure to get some for tomorrow.

[Travis]

But I thought we finished.

[Hayden]

We'll have more to stock tomorrow. Special treatment only goes so far.

[Mia]

But he was looking at me when he said it as a way to mock Grant.

[Hayden]

You need help, Mia.

[Mia]

No. I struggled into the wheelchair as the young kid known as Ty held steady once I settled in. Took a moment to catch my breath.

[Hayden]

Very good.

[Mia]

My arm hurts, too.

[Hayden]

What?

[Mia]

I was shot in my arm as well. Hayden, I don't think I'll be able to push myself. Gave me a weird look as he chuckled. And. Yeah, well, I was purposefully being a pain. There was truth to my statement.

[Hayden]

T. Yeah. Take her to the mess.

[Ty]

Okay.

[Hayden]

Sa.

[Travis]

I don't know, Kenny. We never set anything up. Don't you think we should? There's a lot of supplies.

[Hudson]

People are just grabbing them.

[Travis]

Sure, but we need people for that. Then get more. How?

[Kenny]

What's Travis upset with now?

[Travis]

It's all a bit overwhelming.

[Hudson]

Well, that's why I went and got Dana.

[Kenny]

Travis seemed to not really like that comment from Hudson.

[Travis]

It's not like I can't handle this, but it's one problem after another.

[Hayden]

Shit.

[Travis]

I thought once we got rid of the thrashers and got these people to safety, I'd get at least a breather.

[Kenny]

The world's still ending, Travis. Things aren't going to get easier because you want them to. What's the issue?

[Travis]

Well, over the last couple of days, people have just started claiming houses and supplies, which is causing fights all over town. Add in the fact that we aren't protected and Hudson wants to build a giant freaking wall. Many people are still upset about the base And Chris won't let me live down the Mia shit and say anything. No. You no say anything about what?

[Kenny]

Nothing. Kenny. Kenny didn't know. And I wanted to keep it that way. Chris and I may have bonded a bit on the bikes, but the more people who knew, the better chance Chris had of finding out. And I wanted her to hear it from me first.

[Travis]

See?

[Hudson]

Right there.

[Travis]

More fighting. Kenny, do something. Like what? Break it up. Who the hell am I? You're a guard. Just go.

[Hudson]

We need a system in place. We need organization.

[Travis]

I know. I just don't know where to start.

[Kenny]

I gave Hudson a look. It was obvious that I wasn't going back to being just security. Or that he wasn't going back to being just a mechanic. No, we were in it for the long haul. But if I was being honest with myself, deep down I already knew that.

[Travis]

I don't even know where all of our guards are. I haven't seen Son, Tabitha, Sammy Banks or any of them in hours.

[Kenny]

Travis, breathe. It was at that moment that I thought of Mia. Not how she was now injured and trapped in the base, but that day, after meeting at the White Ranch. When I approached her outside the mechanics.

[Hayden]

Tent, I told her.

[Kenny]

Chris told me what Roger said to Mia, how he thought Mia would make the best leader. I told her she should tell Travis that, but she didn't want to. She didn't want the responsibility. Neither did I. But here I was, helping more than I ever wanted to. And helping someone that I obviously didn't think was fit for it. And that's when I realized someday, some way, I had to get Mia out.

[Ty]

Here.

[Mia]

I looked at the mound of food. Eggs, bacon, sausage and biscuits with gravy. It was a lot. But I didn't pick up my utensils. Instead, I stared at Hayden, who sat across from me at the long bench seat.

[Hayden]

It's not poisoned.

[Mia]

I know. There'd be no purpose to it.

[Hayden]

Now you're getting it.

[Mia]

Getting what?

[Hayden]

The purpose.

[Ty]

Yeah.

[Mia]

I was confused and my face gave it away.

[Hayden]

Ty, get me a coffee.

[Mia]

Kid reluctantly nodded and walked off.

[Hayden]

Purpose. What is the purpose for doing the things I and my buddies all do are doing? Although not all of them are buddies. Hell, I don't even know if I can trust all of them. But I guess I can trust them well enough.

[Mia]

Okay.

[Hayden]

You said forever in there.

[Mia]

He motioned to the room we came from.

[Hayden]

What you said. You can't keep these people and me locked up forever. Yeah, there is no forever. Not with the aliens.

[Mia]

What do you mean? Oh, they'll go away?

[Hayden]

No, no, they aren't just gonna go away. But they'll be forced and that's why I'm not worried.

[Mia]

And what makes you say that? He looked down at my food.

[Hayden]

Aren't you gonna eat?

[Mia]

Aren't you gonna answer my question?

[Hayden]

Sure. Yeah. But you should eat.

[Mia]

He grabbed my fork and forced it into my hand.

[Hayden]

Eat.

[Mia]

Might as well. Who knew when I'd get the chance again? Especially with this spread.

[Hayden]

There we go.

[Ty]

Hayden.

[Mia]

Ty came back with a cup of black coffee and set it in front of Hayden.

[Hayden]

Wait, wait. Go get who switched who came back? Yes. Who came back with you? Do you remember that?

[Ty]

Yeah.

[Hayden]

Don't mess around right now.

[Ty]

Think I I I know it was Leo and Ivy.

[Hayden]

Alright, go get them. I need you all for five minutes then you're done for the day.

[Hudson]

Really?

[Hayden]

Yeah man. Go get em though.

[Ty]

Okay.

[Hayden]

Shoot, what was I talking about?

[Mia]

Purpose?

[Hayden]

Sure. Yeah.

[Mia]

And how the aliens won't be here forever.

[Hayden]

That's it. They won't.

[Mia]

He reached in his pocket and pulled out a flask. And how do you know they won't? You said they'll be forced. By whom?

[Hayden]

The military.

[Mia]

The military's done.

[Hayden]

The military is not done.

[Mia]

I put my fork down, shocked by his firm stance.

[Travis]

Why?

[Hayden]

Why what?

[Mia]

He poured a bit of whatever brown booze he had in his flask into his coffee. Why do you believe that?

[Hayden]

Because I know that you know the.

[Mia]

Military is still around, still fighting.

[Hayden]

Well I don't know if they're still fighting. I mean they aren't here but they will be. They're not done.

[Mia]

Again. And why do you believe that?

[Hayden]

We have communications up. We hear things over the radio. We heard your communications with this base here. That's why we knew we had to swoop in when we did. But we also hear other frequencies.

[Mia]

So you hear the military over the radio. What do they say?

[Hayden]

They say they're planning more attacks.

[Mia]

Oh, because that worked out so well before.

[Hayden]

No no no. Real attacks. Not that half assed shit. When it started, for whatever reason they weren't ready. But they're gonna be.

[Mia]

I'll believe it when I see it.

[Hayden]

You know they knew this was going to happen.

[Mia]

He now had a huge grin like he was revealing some deep dark secret.

[Hayden]

They knew these things were coming.

[Mia]

They said that?

[Hayden]

Oh yeah, but it makes sense. I saw jets flying before the first report.

[Mia]

That doesn't mean days before days.

[Hayden]

That's right. I thought they were just drills, but no, they knew.

[Mia]

Well didn't help them.

[Hayden]

No it didn't. But that's because they didn't know how it was going to happen.

[Mia]

What do you mean?

[Hayden]

They didn't know the skies would rain down with comets. You want to know what I think?

[Mia]

Sure.

[Hayden]

I think they thought it was just gonna be like what you see in those old sci fi movies and shows where the spaceships come in and land and open up the steel doors and pop out. But no. The aliens sent down comets to hit us hard so we couldn't retaliate. At least not right away. And even when it looked like they were getting situated, we get hit with zombie shit. Another thing that military wasn't ready for. They set up these stupid quarantine zones, but can't even keep them operational. So what do they do? Abandon it all?

[Mia]

Exactly. Abandon it. Abandon us.

[Hayden]

But just for now. Because now they learn. They learn and they focus on remobilizing, which is what they've been doing.

[Mia]

Why should I believe you?

[Hayden]

Why? You best believe me. It's your only hope of getting out of here.

[Mia]

What?

[Hayden]

You and Grant and the rest of them aren't leaving until this is over.

[Mia]

Oh, spare me.

[Hayden]

What?

[Mia]

Spare me the cliche bullshit.

[Hayden]

What the hell are you talking about, woman?

[Mia]

Acting like there's some kind of special purpose for the way you're treating me. Treating us? Acting like you'll have a heart after the aliens are disposed of. Like. Like you're just gonna go back to a regular life after gunning down my friends? After nearly killing me. You say this isn't like the movies, that it's not like tv. But here you are with the same tired bullshit.

[Hayden]

I don't follow.

[Mia]

Sure you do. You follow in every lame footstep of tired ass shows that relied on the whole man is the most dangerous evil trope. Whether it's zombies or aliens or a great white shark. There's always someone, some person that is somehow worse. A person that fucks over the other people for money, territory, or plain psychopathic fun. And that's all you're doing, playing into it. He seemed to take a moment to collect his thoughts. After a good 10 seconds, he started slowly shaking his head.

[Hayden]

No, you're wrong. None of this is an act. I never even fathomed that human beings could be worse than aliens. And I'm not. I'm not a bad guy. I'm just a guy trying to survive.

[Mia]

Another tired stereotype.

[Hayden]

It's true though. You may not believe me, and that's fine. You don't know me. I know me. And I know when the military handles this invasion, I'll leave and you'll be free, just like all the others. At that point, I won't have to worry about any of you screwing me and my people over.

[Mia]

Your people? You mean more killers?

[Hayden]

Word has it your people killed as well. Your people killed a man here not long ago. And the people here killed a man of yours, right? A man named Roger.

[Mia]

How do you know that?

[Hayden]

We've talked to the survivors.

[Mia]

Well, all of that was a mistake, that's all. You deliberately killed people?

[Hayden]

We had to protect our own.

[Mia]

To steal the base.

[Hayden]

This base was not granting.

[Mia]

Keaton's wasn't yours either.

[Hayden]

Very true. But we wanted a safe place to.

[Mia]

Hold out and killed people to do it.

[Hayden]

But we weren't the first ones.

[Mia]

Did he mean us? I told you ours was a mistake.

[Hayden]

I'm not talking about Carl or Roger. I'm talking about two of my men who were killed when we just wanted to talk.

[Mia]

Talk to who?

[Hayden]

The other Rangers. Grant, Keaton, Luke.

[Mia]

What do you mean by other, dear?

[Hayden]

I too was a Ranger.

[Narrator/Producer]

End of all Hope Written by Robert M. Lamb Edited by Ashley Cartisano Revisions by Mia Sukvalai 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 Ann Feller as Hudson Mike Lenhart as Grant Veronica Wolfarth as Grace and Brian Messick as Cohen Maurice Shelton, Douglas Solway, Corey Kein, Walter Mack, Corey Pettit and Mia Sukvalai 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 sevenlam.com to find two separate stores to sell different Seven Lamb merch including shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, loot, boxes and more. Or you can go directly to the stores at 7Lambstore.com 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, and we want to give a special shout out to seven lamb patrons Brad McQuaid, Chris Williamson, Carter Jewell and Jacob Tolbert. From everyone here at seven Lamb, thank you. This has been a seven Lamb production.