Final Stop: Tragedy

Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger
The Mariners

Alles hat ein Ende, nur die Wurst hat zwei.

Posts: 191

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 16, 2021 15:42:47 GMT

Post by Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger on Aug 16, 2021 15:42:47 GMT

After Kinsley and her friend Gabby had left, Ziggy laid back and stared at the ceiling. She felt the pain in her body but her broken heart hurt way more. Thomas and Brody's presence was soothing but it couldn't stop Ziggy from crying. Not just for Ayita, but for Cam and Ellie too. Ziggy realized the last words she had spoken with Ellie had been in anger and she'd have to live with that the rest of her life.

It seemed nurse Instagram was ready to call it a day as well. She came to check on Ziggy one last time and offered to bring her food but Ziggy shook her head. Even with the chemicals in her body fading, she wasn't hungry at all. It seemed likely she wouldn't be able to eat in a long time, or at least as long as she was grieving for her dead fiancée.

"We're good nurse Lennox." Thomas replied in Ziggy's stead. "If she gets hungry I'll find her something, somewhere. Thank you."

Sara's father passed by and said Sara had been by earlier. Ziggy hoped Sara was doing okay. She'd have loved for Sara to be there too. Marco left as quickly as he came and after a while it was just Ziggy and the two boys. Brody helped Ziggy drink the soda so she could have a pee and get out of there. Once she had, a female medic helped Ziggy get dressed and although she was offered a wheelchair, Ziggy declined. Her legs felt like rubber but she was too proud to sit in one of those things.

With the help of Thomas and Brody, Ziggy was able to walk to the auditorium, which had been turned into a sort funeral hall so that people could say their final goodbyes to Ayita, Carmin and Ellie. Mikayla had done good work, getting plants and flowers in, along with candles and even soft sad songs playing on the PA system. Thomas and Brody helped Ziggy to the cooling table on which Ayita was laying. Ziggy burst into tears once more when she saw her fiancée laying there, lifeless and cold. Ziggy kissed Ayita on the forehead but shook at how cold her fiancée felt. Thomas and Brody gave Ziggy a chair to sit on, then mourned at Ellie's and Cam's bodies respectively.

In the back of auditorium sat Claudia and Cutler, both with a beer in hand. Father Kincaid had given them a remark about it, but Claudia paid no mind to it. Funerals were for the living after all. Claudia leaned forward on the seat in front of her when she saw Ziggy, Thomas and Brody come in and go to their dead loved ones.

"Damn... that girl is one tough cookie." Cutler spoke, seeing Ziggy up and about already.

"She's incredibly strong-willed." Claudia answered. "Which is why she survived for so long, and will keep on surviving."

"I don't know Claw. Hope she doesn't do anything stupid now that she's lost Ayita."

"She won't."

"How do you know?"

"Because if she wanted, she could've offed herself on the train already. No, she wants to live. And set the world right."

"And you know this how?"

"Because it's what I would do."

"But she's not you."

"She's a warrior."

"Well, anyway we should express our condoleances to them."

"Later. Let them mourn for now."

Claudia took another sip from her beer. Like Ziggy, Thomas and Brody she too had felt loss. When her brother had died, all Claudia wanted to do was set things right for him. And when they'd be ready again, she'd be there for Ziggy and the others to teach them how.

Troy Morrow
Global Moderator

Posts: 136

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 21, 2021 18:42:22 GMT

Post by Troy Morrow on Aug 21, 2021 18:42:22 GMT

Marco just looked down at the floor as Norman cursed at him and he couldn't blame the man at all. He betrayed the town but he did it to save his family still though his efforts were in vain as Maria walked around with a life long injury but still he somehow managed to get both his girls back so maybe after all it was a blessing, He walked into Mallory's office and when asked if Sara and Maria were okay the old deputy nodded. "Yeah they are fine...Uhh Sara is...Well she is hurting but hanging in there. The reason I came here is because..." he said to Mallory before a moment of silence passed and he cleared his throat. "I wanna join the militia." said Marco to Mallory. He let a moment pass to let his words sink in before he continued. "My kids and wife mean everything to me and I would do anything to protect them. I can't protect them if I'm stuck in here. Please Mallory let me make up for my past mistakes and make it right. I'm not asking for an answer right now but please just think on it." said Marco as he looked at her. He wasn't gunna lie this was terrifying to him the silence as his fate was in Mallory's hands sure he was given more free reign then the other prisoners but because of that he was disliked by the other prisoners.

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Sara had made it home changing in a black dress she went to the auditorium where the services were being held for Ayita, Cam and Ellie. She was still upset for Troy but she had to put her feelings aside right now Ziggy needed her. Once there she saw Laura and walked over to her giving her a hug. "Hey are you doing okay?" asked Sara softly to Laura. "Yeah it's just...I wish they were here." said Laura softly to Sara.

The two friends walked over to Ziggy, Brody and Thomas. Laura was consoling Brody and Thomas while Sara put her hand on Ziggy's shoulder. She was just frozen as tears fell down her face, seeing the corpse of Ayita really broke it was almost as if the air had been taken from her lungs she couldn't breath and her hand on Ziggy's shoulder started to shake. She just couldn't take it anymore and she just wrapped her arms around Ziggy as she quietly wept for her three friends.

Troy was in the back of the auditorium with Ysabel next to him. The other Demon Dogs were there as well and Cutler looked at Troy and noticed the red mark on his face. "What happened?" asked Cutler to Troy who just kept his eyes forward as he stared at the grieving Sara. "Nothin." said Troy to Cutler. The big man looked at Sara and then at Troy and he quickly put two and two together. "She found out eh?" asked Cutler to Troy. Ysabel looked to Cutler. "She came down to the bar looking for Troy and I thought she was a new face so I introduced myself as Troy's fiancée." said Ysabel to Cutler who let out a heavy sigh and shook his head lightly as he knew Troy was in one hell of a situation.

Mallory Faraday
Administrator

The Boss Lady

How delightfully fuckin' morbid.

Posts: 237

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 23, 2021 14:32:33 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Aug 23, 2021 14:32:33 GMT

Mal sighed after Marco finished. Although she wasn't unsympathetic to the man wanting to protect his family, there was something he didn't understand before and had failed to learn now. It was something his daughters Maria and Sara already knew. Something Mallory's own father had known, and what Ayita, Ellie and Carmin had paid the ultimate price for.

"I'm sorry Marco." Mal answered. "But I can't fulfill your request. It seems that after all this time you haven't learned yet."

Mallory folded her hands in eachother and looked at Marco.

"Your daughters know what I'm talking about." Mal continued. "Hell, Sara demonstrated it once more the past couple of weeks. She lost three of her friends because they too understood the meaning of it. You know what I'm talking about Marco?"

Mal stood up and opened the blinds on her window, where the temporary encampment for the Wisconsin people had been made.

"Duty." Mal spoke. "Duty to your fellow human. Willing to sacrifice yourself for them. Making the ultimate sacrifice if it means saving another. Maria and Sara understood this when they went to battle with the rest of us to free the town. Sara understood it once more when she helped all those people out there get here safely. But you, despite the sacrifices your daughters have made, fail to understand. You say you want to join the militia because you want to keep your family safe, but your actions from the past have revealed that's the only thing you're after. And you'd do anything and sacrifice everyone if it means keeping them safe. Which is somehow understanding for a father I guess, but not the kind of person I can entrust with the lives of my people."

Mallory figured a parent would do anything to keep their children safe. She wasn't a parent herself yet, but she figured there were things even she wouldn't do. Things Marco had already done. Choosing the easy option if there were other but more difficult options. She could never trust him in the militia. Mallory sat back down and entangled her hands again.

"So my answer is no." Mallory said. "And it will remain that way until you learn it's about everyone's family, not just your own. As for Maria and Sara, they're already soldiers in my book. And if they want to join the militia one day, I'd welcome them with open arms. In the meantime I suggest you learn from their example."

Mal was genuinely proud of Maria and Sara, and what they had meant for the town. And although tragedy had struck now, her heart swelled with pride when she thought about all the people Sara and her friends had saved, and the sacrifices they had made. And she had a feeling Kellen probably ran straight to Maria after collecting Kinsley to perform their secret task.

"If that's all, you may leave." Mallory then said. She hoped Marco would take her answer and not debate on it.

Last Edit: Aug 23, 2021 14:38:12 GMT by Mallory Faraday

Maria Ramirez
The Mariners

Posts: 30

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 27, 2021 2:21:06 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Aug 27, 2021 2:21:06 GMT

Maria was surprised to see Kellen go off on Kinsley about wanting to take this seriously but when he explained that this was an order from Mallory it all made sense to her. She knew he wanted to join the militia and what better way to join the militia then impress the leader. Maria was with Kinsley searching through books while Gabby was on the computer and Kellen was searching the DVD section. She kept searching and searching but to no avail but then she spot a title that caught her eye. "Got it!" said Maria to Kinsley as she asked her how she was fairing. She dusted the book off and handed it to Kinsley as she smiled at her.

"I should go search Sara's room when I get the chance she might have a book on this Dagon dude." said Maria to Kinsley. But something else was on Maria's mind and she wanted to voice her opinion on it. "We should tell the others about this. I mean William and Julio were apart of the forest group and Red can survive out there. It just seems wrong going behind there backs like this you know?" said Maria to Kinsley.

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Marco wanted to speak on the matter as soon as he heard Mallory reject him from the Militia but he listened to her words and it hit him. Everyone here was family and he just nodded once she was finished. He stood up from his chair and let out a heavy sigh as he looked at Mallory. "I'm gunna prove you wrong. I'm gunna show you I've changed." said Marco in a calm tone. He then left Mallory's office and headed back home where he got on a suit and walked over to the auditorium with Camilla. Seeing Sara there with Ziggy broke his heart as he knew how close she was with the three deceased girls. He looked over at Troy with Ysabel and for once he was on Troy's side. He could understand where the biker was coming from with following his heart. His daughter was heartbroken yet in a way he was grateful for this maybe now she could find someone close to her age but it was foolish to think of relationships at a time like this.

-----------------------------

Ayako was in the back leaning against the wall as she looked on at the people entering the auditorium. Soon enough Cassie and Mark joined with Cassie wearing a black dress and Mark wearing a suit. The nurse and the soldier walked over to the Japanese warrior and Cassie wrapped her arms around Ayako who stood there for a moment before tapping her on the back lightly. Ayako wasn't one for hugs or really any sort of affection. She could show it but it was rare. "How are you?" asked Cassie to Ayako who looked at the nurse for a moment before looking at Ziggy and Sara. "I'm fine...I was going to take a small group out later to teach them how to hunt but with this now...I don't feel safe going out there with a group of kids." said Ayako to Cassie. Mark then chimed in and looked at Ayako. "You were gunna teach kids how to hunt?" asked Mark to Ayako. "Well teenagers but...I'll do it next week. I just wanna give them time to grieve. Those kids looked up to them." said Ayako as he looked at the corpses of Ayita, Cam and Ellie.

Kinsley Patterson
The Mariners

Posts: 43

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 27, 2021 11:59:58 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Aug 27, 2021 11:59:58 GMT

Taking the book from Maria Kinsley looked at it and then opened it, flipping the pages to the content table. She scanned it quickly then found 'Dagon' and the page it started on. Maria then voiced her discontent about Red, William and Julio not being there but Kinsley could understand the need for secrecy on this matter.

"I don't think cousin Mal wanted Kelso to get too many people involved." Kinsley answered. "But we'll tell them later about what we did okay? If we're allowed to..."

Kinsley then sat down at a nearby table and turned on the reading light. Dusty as it was, the bulb still shined brightly. She flipped through the book and started reading. The story was written in the 'I-form', as if it was a witness account. It was about a sailor who got captured by the Germans in World War I, but then escaped in a sloop and ended up on an uncharted piece of land covered in black slime. After exploring the island, he found a giant stone with sea creatures on it, as if they were revered at some point. He then saw Dagon crawl on the monolith after which he ran back to the sloop and escaped the island. Years later, when he wrote the story Dagon apparently came back to get him.

"Well, it's... short." Kinsley said, expecting the tale to be longer. "And it's written like a witness account. You'd have to be really stupid to believe it though..."

"Sailors are still superstitious today." Gabby spoke. "I can imagine they'd be even more so back in those days."

"And the people who attacked the train? They can't all have been sailors right?"

"Who knows? There's people who think the dead rising is biblical. Before you had snake-grabbers in the Appalachians, voodoo-priests in New Orleans... People believing in sea monsters doesn't seem that much of a stretch really..."

Kinsley shrugged. There had always been crazy sects in America, although most of them were Christians. But Gabby was right in saying people had believed in crazier things. Kellen came back with the Dagon movie DVD in hand. He waved it around to show he found it.

"Found it!" Kellen spoke. "A bit scratched but it should play."

"Great, let's watch it!" Kinsley answered. "There should be a dvd-player here somewhere right?"

"Ooh, I got an idea!" Gabby said. "Kellen, come with me!"

Gabby grabbed Kellen by the hand and ran off with him. Kinsley just looked at Maria then shrugged. Kinsley took the encyclopedia and looked up Dagon. She cringed a bit when she saw an illustration of the monster.

"Oh yuck!" Kinsley said. "Slimy little fucker isn't he?"

Kinsley turned the book around to show Maria the illustration. Once her friend had a good look, Kinsley put the book back in front of her.

"Dagon is a deity who presides over the Deep Ones, an amphibious humanoid race that currently resides in the Earth's oceans. He is first introduced in Lovecraft's short story Dagon, and is mentioned extensively throughout the mythos." Kinsley read out loud. "Also known as Father Dagon and the consort of Mother Hydra, although they are Deities, they are generally not considered Great Old Ones. He is worshipped by the Esoteric Order of Dagon, a secret cult based in Innsmouth."

Kinsley raised both her eyebrows and sighed. The prospect of Dagon being mentioned extensively throughout the mythos could mean they had a lot of reading to do. The main ones seemed to be the short story she had just read and the book she had found earlier, The Shadow over Innsmouth.

"So I guess we should look into this book." Kinsley said to Maria as she tapped on the Shadow over Innsmouth. "This is the one that has the cult with the Dagon worshippers in it, which is what we are looking for right?"

Kinsley read further in the encyclopedia until she found a part that was actually factual.

"Okay, get this." Kinsley said. "Lovecraft most likely based Dagon on the ancient Mesopotamian deity of the same name, who was a god of fish, fishing, and fertility."

Gabby had Kellen haul a flatscreen TV which was used in the library before and had him set it on a nearby table. Kinsley looked back and wondered exactly which Dagon they were looking for.

"Yo Kelso, it says here there was an actual Mesopotamian god called Dagon!" Kinsley said. "Which one are we looking for exactly?"

"The Lovecraft one!" Kellen answered.

"You sure?"

"Yes I'm sure! The weapons in the commander's office had the Lovecraftian symbol on it!"

Kinsley just shrugged again. Somehow people believing in some Mesopotamian god seemed more likely than a fictional one. But if Kellen was sure it was the Lovecraft one... She figured whoever convinced these people the sea monster was real was a hell of a talker. Gabby had Kellen move a computer drive next to the big screen TV and then hooked it up herself. Kinsley was impressed when it came on.

"Not bad Gabs!" Kinsley said. "You're a real AV nerd!"

"Shuuuut uuuup!" Gabby answered. "You know I always wanted to work in IT!"

"Oh? What happened to making babies and running a crime imperium?"

"That's drunk Gabby's dream! Sober Gabby loves computers! So I'm gonna pop this DVD in, you guys comin'?"

Kinsley nodded at Maria to come, then put a reading tab in the encyclopedia and closed it. She then got up and grabbed a computer chair to set in, and a regular one to rest her feet on. Gabby had popped in the DVD and was busy to get it started. Once Maria sat down, they could watch the horror movie.

Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger
The Mariners

Alles hat ein Ende, nur die Wurst hat zwei.

Posts: 191

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 28, 2021 8:44:04 GMT

Post by Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger on Aug 28, 2021 8:44:04 GMT

Ziggy felt Sara's embrace and bit through the pain in her arms to entangle her hands with Sara's. The events on the train kept going through her head; feeling the three bullets tear through her right arm, biting through it and shooting with her left hand until it too was pierced with an arrow. Getting knocked down and trying to reach for her gun, seeing one of those maniacs behind Ayita and yelling at her to turn around, only for her to get stabbed in the heart as soon as she did. Ziggy kept looking for something she could've done different, if anything she could've done different so that Ayita might still be alive today.

But the attackers on the train were so fierce, so impervious to pain and the ones Ziggy had killed took multiple bullets from her M14 rifle and almost a whole clip of her Glock 17 before they finally went down, as if they were possessed or just didn't care that they were fatally shot. Hell, Thomas had to practically cut the head off the one who killed Ayita before she finally went down. It wasn't a fair fight, as fair as a non-arbitrated fight can be.

Ayita didn't want to fight anymore, which is why they declined the offer to join the militia after the Battle of Bar Harbor. Ziggy knew Ayita probably wouldn't want her fighting anymore either. But how could she sit by while the world was full of people like the ones who had attacked them? No, Ziggy was going to make sure what had happened to her wouldn't happen to anyone else anymore. From here on out she'd dedicate her life to it. They had taken everything from her, she'd never get Ayita back. But she was going to make damn sure none of them would be left standing to revel in the pain they had caused to others.

"I won't rest until the ones who did this are all dead." Ziggy said to Sara. "After that, I'll hunt down anyone else who forgot to be human. I'll dedicate my life to it, this I swear!"

Ziggy got up and leaned over Ayita's body. She removed Ayita's engagement ring and put it on her own finger.

"I'm sorry my love." Ziggy spoke. "I know you wouldn't want me fighting anymore. But you'd want me to make sure this wouldn't happen to anyone else too. Wherever you are, I hope you understand."

Ziggy sat back down, folded her hands and closed her eyes. She prayed, not to God, but to Ayita. For her understanding what she was going to do, for her forgiveness and most importantly, for her blessing. And that she would look over her and their friends.

Mallory Faraday
Administrator

The Boss Lady

How delightfully fuckin' morbid.

Posts: 237

Final Stop: Tragedy Aug 28, 2021 9:22:58 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Aug 28, 2021 9:22:58 GMT

Mal had no faith in Marco's words. She knew if push came to shove, he'd choose his own family over doing the right thing any day. When he left Mal got up and locked away the weapons with the Dagon symbol. She knew Kellen would take his job seriously, and hoped he and his little research group would be able to keep things quiet to avoid raising panic. As for herself, she knew it would be expected of her to be at the wake for Ayita, Ellie and Carmin so after locking her office, Mallory went to the auditorium.

Once there she saw quite the crowd had gathered. She passed Mikayla who was standing at the door, giving her friend a nod. Claudia was with the bikers having a beer. Marco and Camilla were there too, as were Cassie and Mark. Other townsfolk like Ayako had come too, and many of the people who were with them in the forest. Of course Kellen and Kinsley weren't there, and Maria Ramirez neither, the same for Gabrielle Galytsin. Mal figured they too were with Kellen. As harsh as it may have seemed, this wake was a perfect distraction for what her cousin, Kellen, and their friends were doing.

Having already seen Brody and Thomas, Mal went over to Ziggy and Sara. Mal hadn't expected Ziggy to be up and about so quickly though but it was good to see her regardless. Mal kneeled down in front of Ziggy, who was sitting on a chair and put her hand on the young girl's knee.

"Hey, good to see you up and about." Mal asked. "You're not in too much pain, are you?"

"It's fine commander, thank you." Ziggy answered. "Can I ask something?"

"Anything Ziggy."

"I want to join the militia. Once I'm all healed up."

"Ziggy..."

"No, don't give me that 'think about it first' and 'rash decision' lecture please. My mind is made up. I always wanted to join, I just didn't for Ayita."

Mal could understand Ziggy. And she knew the potential of the German girl. She could understand Ziggy wanting revenge but she didn't want her to make a spur of the moment decision. Ziggy was grieving, she was angry. Mal would've liked for her to give it more thought.

"Just focus on healing right now okay?" Mal said. "After that, you still want to join up, you know I'd welcome you with open arms."

Mal then looked at Sara. "Take care of eachother, okay?" she said. "The boys too. And if any of you need anything, you know where to find me."

Mal squeezed Sara's shoulder, then walked up the auditorium until she got to the row where Troy and Claudia were sitting, and took a seat next to them.

Father Kincaid then led the wake into prayer, preached about the youth and sacrifice. Although Mal tried to follow, her thoughts were preoccupied with the difficulties they were facing; getting the Wisconsin people situated and preparing for an attack, should the ones who attacked the train decide to follow up and finish the job. Mal had a feeling these were no ordinary raiders, and she hoped Kellen and his group would report in before the day had ended.

Troy Morrow
Global Moderator

Posts: 136

Final Stop: Tragedy Sept 5, 2021 0:56:46 GMT

Post by Troy Morrow on Sept 5, 2021 0:56:46 GMT

People had gathered in the auditorium and as Mal sat next to Troy he turned to his best friend. "Sara...Found out about me and Ysabel. She went to the bar and...She smacked me across the face...I deserve that much." said Troy softly to Mallory as he didn't want to disturb anyone from listening to Father Kincaid's words. Troy hadn't been to a funeral not in a long time but he was numb to it. He had lost family members and brothers. Going to a funeral was almost a regular occurrence in his line of work. He wanted to talk to Mal but now wasn't the best of times. He just sat there and listened to the Father's words while Cutler handed him a beer. He twisted the cap off and took a sip from it.

Sara was gunna stay by Ziggy's side no matter what and when she said she was gunna join the militia she had looked at Mal and gave her a nod indicating that she wanted to join as well. "I'll look after them." said Sara to Mallory about Thomas, Brody and Ziggy. She sat down next to her family and her dad put his arm around her as he started to tear up. "I'm sorry hun." he said softly and Sara just wiped her tears away. Laura was sitting behind Sara and her family and reached out having her hand on Sara's shoulder. Laura's mom Karen just looked at her daughter and then at Sara shaking her head lightly. She wasn't comfortable around "common folk" she enjoyed the rich life and just thought of Sara and her daughter's friendship as a joke. But she was gunna be civil at the very least.

Maria Ramirez
The Mariners

Posts: 30

Final Stop: Tragedy Sept 15, 2021 3:36:44 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Sept 15, 2021 3:36:44 GMT

Maria was puzzled as she heard Kinsley say that they would tell the others if they are allowed to. Since when did Kinsley fall in line? Sure she broke the rules once in a while for the sake of fun but not telling her friends about a possible dangerous enemy that might come on their doorstep. She wanted to press on but figured it was no use. She wanted to use what energy she had to help no fight with her friends and so she let it go for now. Once Kinsley sat down at a desk she joined her and as she read some of the witness accounts Maria was just wondering about the freaks who were worshipping this crap. It all just seemed like non sense to her in the end and seeing the illustration of the monster just proved her point in why she believed it was just all crap. "Fucking gross." said Maria to Kinsley.

When Kinsley began to read some passages she listen closely and something stuck out to her like it did to Kinsley as she tapped the book. She just nodded along and listened closely to her friend continue reading. Soon Kelso came back with the DVD and once Gabby and Kelso got the computer and tv et up she followed her friends and they watched the movie. Maria just sighed as the movie started and she wasn't gunna lie she was worried about Sara and the others like Ziggy and Laura. She was thinking about them more than watching the movie. "We should have brought some popcorn or snacks." said Maria to the group half jokingly.

Kinsley Patterson
The Mariners

Posts: 43

Final Stop: Tragedy Sept 20, 2021 16:46:34 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Sept 20, 2021 16:46:34 GMT

Now that they were about to watch the movie, it became easy to forget they weren't doing this for fun but for an actual purpose. After Maria made a comment about having snacks a lightbulb went off into Kinsley's head. Not snacks but they might need something else. This was more of a study group after all, not friends hanging out. Kinsley jumped up from her chair and went to the librarian's desk, rummaging through it and coming back with pens and paper for everyone.

"It's not popcorn but you can chew on it if that's your thing!" Kinsley said to Maria as she handed out the pens and papers. "Take notes guys. The sooner we get this done the sooner we can get back to our regular schedule!"

Then something gnawed at Kinsley's conscience. With all this 'regular' life she had been having lately her sense of duty had somewhat faded. Having fun had been somewhat central and they owed it to everyone to do a good job.

"No..." Kinsley uttered. "You know what guys; no. Just no. We need to take our time and do a good job here. For Ziggy and Sara, for Thomas and Brody... Had it been us on that train instead of them they'd be taking this very serious and researching the shit outta this Dagon character. We owe it to Mallory and Claudia too; they've been making sure we could live as regular teenagers this entire time. And I'm not just saying that because Mallory's my cousin. We've been getting complacent and it's time we do something about it."

"I've literally been telling you guys this entire time to take it seriously!" Kellen spoke. Gabby immediately put her hand on his mouth though.

"Honey, let her have this little epiphany will ya?" Gabby spoke. "But Kinsley's right, we saw the victims at the clinic first hand. Whoever did that to them wasn't human, not anymore. If this whole myth can bring insight to that, maybe we can find a weak spot. Come on!"

Having said that, Gabby put on the movie. Kinsley sat down next to Maria after pulling a desk in front of their chairs. Kinsley rested her feet on chair opposite hers though. No one said you couldn't be comfortable taking things seriously.

The starting credits revealed that this movie was a Spanish production, and that the entire thing was shot in Spain. Kellen commented that it was English spoken though, and that the movie was an adaptation of the book The Shadow over Innsmouth. It started with four people on a sailboat which ran aground. One couple which consisted of the main protagonist and his girlfriend, went for help in a rubber boat and came on land at Imboca, a fishing village.

The only human left in town is a drunk called Ezequiel who explains to the main protagonist that, many years ago, the village fell on lean times. A fishing ship captain Orpheus Cambarro (based on captain Obed Marsh) convinced the locals to worship Dagon rather than God. Xavier's first offerings to Dagon brought Imboca enormous wealth in the form of fish and gold. This caused the locals to make him the high priest of the Church of Dagon, help him dismantle the local Catholic church and kill the priest to establish the church in Dagon's honor (based on Esoteric Order of Dagon). However, the wealth brought upon by Imboca from worshiping Dagon had a terrible price as Dagon demanded blood sacrifices and human women to breed with. These were, respectively, the fates of Ezequiel's father and mother who resisted Xavier's heretical practice. Over time, the people of Imboca eventually began to die off leaving only the half-fish/half-human offspring of Dagon and Dagon's offsprings themselves to settle in the village who would kidnap unexpected trespassers to sacrifice to Dagon while Ezequiel watched the village go to ruin and lamented the villagers' foolishness in worshiping a demon for short-lived prosperity.

In the end the main protagonist, Paul, after losing his girlfriend and his friends, gets assaulted by the Dagon worshippers, but are halted by Uxia, the Octopus Girl, and a monstrously deformed Imbocan who is revealed to be Uxia's and Paul's father. Uxia explains that Paul's human mother escaped from Imboca years ago after being impregnated by his half-breed father, but now that Paul has returned, he will be her lover and they will dwell with Dagon forever. Trapped and shocked that he has been an abomination all along, Paul pours the last of the kerosene over his own body and attempts to set himself on fire. Uxia grabs him and dives into the water, where Paul sprouts gills. With no options left, he follows Uxia down into Dagon's undersea lair.

Kinsley raised an eyebrow when the movie ended and nodded to herself. That movie was actually pretty good and now she looked forward to reading The Shadow over Innsmouth. Gabby got up and turned off the DVD player, ejecting the disc so they could bring it with them to Mallory.

"So... anyone else thinking what the fuck?" Gabby asked. "Not saying the movie was bad but fish people?"

"Most of Lovecraft's creatures were based on sea creatures." Kellen said. "The train attackers probably aren't halfbreeds like in the movie but my guess is they worship Dagon the same way? They might think they're halfbreeds though..."

Kinsley looked at her notes. She had caught that part as well.

"I think it's more the part about Dagon providing out of the ocean." Kinsley said. "Didn't you say they found water-weathered weapons in the train?"

"So someone's throwing weapons in the water and making people believe it's Dagon who provided them?" Gabby asked. "Geez, why go through all that trouble? Why not just go with Kah-Loo-Loo over there and keep everything on land or something?"

"It's Cthulhu!" Kellen corrected Gabby. "And he lives in the ocean as well, the sunken city of R'lyeh? Anyway, it makes more sense for it to be Dagon, because he and the rest of the Deep Ones are known to visit dry land at times, and you know... breed with humans?"

Kinsley looked at Maria, then back at her notes. The Lovecraft lore seemed to really be Kellen's thing, maybe even so much that he forgot what was important and what could actually be important.

"Uhh guys?" Kinsley interrupted. "If they're throwing shit as 'gifts of Dagon' into the ocean for people to find we might want to focus on what tickles Dagon's generosity. Which is, if I interpreted the movie correctly... human sacrifices? I think that's the part we should be focusing on here?"

It was quiet for a moment. Then Kellen looked up.

"Kinsley's right." Kellen said. "There were enough religious nuts out there before everything went to shit. It seems the right kind of person would be able to convince a large group of people that Dagon is real and that blood sacrifices are needed for him to provide for them."

"Right." Kinsley spoke. "Boil it all down to logistics and what remains is a group sacrificing people to get stuff that's thrown into the water by other people."

"So the girl that came back with them on the train?" Gabby asked. "The one whose tongue was cut out?"

"Possibly one of their sacrifices." Kinsley answered. "Or one of them who saw through the bullshit and wanted out? Who knows? In any case, it seems possible someone might come looking for her..."

Kinsley sighed. She honestly hoped that wasn't the case although secretly she looked forward to a little action. Still, people might die. Hell, they already had.

"So how are we doing this?" Gabby asked. "I'm guessing Mallory wants a report or something?"

"Well, Kelso, you're the expert on the lore right?" Kinsley spoke. "It seems best you write the full report on Dagon and the lore. Maria and I can write about what's involved concretely when it comes to worshipping Dagon and what they might be capable of? In any case, we should grab what we need from here and head back to the school, maybe find a working computer?"

Kinsley looked at Maria again and remembered her objections from before.

"Aaaand.... maybe bring in an extra pair of hands... or two?" Kinsley said, suggesting they'd get Julio and William involved. "A set of paws too?"

"No way!" Kellen said. "I mean don't get me wrong, I've got nothing against Julio or William but..."

"C'mon sweetie, Mallory didn't say how many people you could get involved, did she?" Gabby spoke. "Besides, they could like, talk with the Wisconsin people or something right? Maybe listen in on a few conversations?"

"I'm not sure the commander wants us to take that much initiative..." Kellen answered. "And they're already interviewing the Wisconsin people..."

"Yeah but are they talking to the kids?" Kinsley asked. "People like us? I mean, if they pay as much attention to them as they do to us... And we break into places to get our drink on without anyone ever knowing!"

"You said it wasn't breaking in because you had a key!" Kellen said.

Kinsley rolled her eyes. Kellen was missing the point.

"What I mean is, they don't know what we do and we don't talk about it with the adults." Kinsley said. "There might be kids from Wisconsin who have done some things, seen some things, but can't talk about with anyone because they'll get into trouble. They might talk about it with us though."

"I don't know..." Kellen said.

"C'mon, all we have to do is chat'em up a bit." Gabby spoke. "And Julio and William have a way with people, you can't deny that."

"Well... okay then."

"Good, so it's settled!" Kinsley spoke. "We should grab what we need from here and then head back to the school. I'll ask cousin Mal for a classroom just for us in which we can work. Maria, do you have any idea where Julio and William might be?"

Kinsley looked at her friend, Maria might know. Kinsley hadn't seen those guys all day after having to play medic for most of it. There was a part of her that doubted if Mallory would be cool with them getting so many people involved but maybe if they showed the result she might just not care.

Magna Dutton
Crawling Walker

Posts: 16

Final Stop: Tragedy Sept 21, 2021 7:57:32 GMT

Post by Magna Dutton on Sept 21, 2021 7:57:32 GMT

Magna and her group were at the auditorium wanting to pay their respects as was George and some people from Wisconsin. Magna was near the entrance with Bernie while her group members were sitting down listening to the Father preach. "Hey Magna you okay?" whispered Bernie to Magna who just nodded but didn't even look at him as she kept her eyes on the three dead girls who were in coffins. She wasn't gunna lie it sucked to lose these girls even if she barely knew them. Still though she remembered when they first arrived she thought they were possible spies for the Sirens. Now that they were gone she wished she could have made her first impressions better. But in the end all she cared about was her family. They were a tight bunch and Magna knew if this was the old world she would have never known they existed. So in a way she was grateful to have found her family. She just leaned against the wall and crossed her arms as Father Kincald continued with his sermon. George shed a few tears wiping away a few in the process. He knew he was losing his people. He wasn't the best leader I mean people looked to him for answers but sadly he didn't have them all he just did the best he could. Once the sermon was over he walked over to Mallory. "Hi Commander Mallory you said you wanted a word with me earlier?" asked George to Mallory. Yumiko was behind George and she spoke up. "I hope you don't mind I would like to tag along as well I mean he is my client after all." said Yumiko to Mallory. Troy was next to Mallory and he looked confused "Client?" asked Troy to which Yumiko quickly answered. "I'm his lawyer." said Yumiko and Troy just scoffed at the idea and shook his head in disbelief. "Yeah and I'm the fuckin Pope." said Troy in a sarcastic tone to Yumiko who gave Troy a cold stare. George then cleared his throat and spoke up. "Umm if it's okay with you I would like to have my lawyer present during our talk?" asked George to Mallory. Yumiko figured this was a good way to try and learn about this group here.

Last Edit: Sept 21, 2021 8:12:57 GMT by Magna Dutton

Maria Ramirez
The Mariners

Posts: 30

Final Stop: Tragedy Sept 25, 2021 4:22:33 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Sept 25, 2021 4:22:33 GMT

Maria took the pen from Kinsley and a notebook that was handed to her. She listen to her friend as she said the sooner they could get this done they could go back to their regular schedule but it seemed soon enough that she was willing to take it seriously as she said that if they were on the train Ziggy and the others wouldn't stop researching and Maria knew she was right. Once the movie started Maria began taking notes. She wrote down key events that happened in the movie relating to Dagon and wrote down what she thought was important information, like the Church of Dagon and Uxia, the Octopus Girl. Once the movie was over Maria let out a heavy sigh and was lost in thought for a moment trying to process the movie she just watched. When her friends started to discuss about the people who attacked the train saying that they worship Dagon the same way like the halfbreeds. "I mean these people who attacked the train they probably think they are halfbreeds." said Maria to her friends. Then human sacrifices came up and Maria just shook her head at the thought of it. It would pain her to see her friends or family become part of these human sacrifices and she wasn't going to allow that. Then the topic of the girl came up the one whose tongue was cut out. Maria tapped her pen on her notebook as she thought of that girl. "Hey Kins and Gabby you guys were helping out the medics earlier right? I was thinking maybe Gabby could try to talk to the girl. Maybe she has information on these people." suggested Maria to her friends.

When the idea of adding more people to the group namely Julio and William was brought up by Kinsley she smiled at her friend as it made her happy to include them. When asked about where she thought Julio and William she had to think about it for a moment. "Hmm I remember they were suppose to go hunting with Ayako but that got cancelled...Probably at Julio's house." said Maria to Kinsley with a shrug. She got up and as she did she grabbed her notebook. "I'll meet you guys at the school I gotta go see Ayako real quick about something." said Maria to her friends as she left. She walked over to Ayako's tattoo shop and as she entered it was silent which was unusual but Ayako soon came into view as she got up from her chair. "Hey Maria you doing okay? how's Sara?" asked Ayako to the girl. This certainly was a surprise to Ayako but she figured maybe Maria needed someone to talk too.

Ayako Sanada
The Mariners

Posts: 21

Final Stop: Tragedy Oct 1, 2021 20:34:57 GMT

Post by Ayako Sanada on Oct 1, 2021 20:34:57 GMT

Maria just let out a heavy sigh and walked up to the counter as she heard Ayako ask about Sara. "She's hanging in there." said Maria to Ayako who nodded. After a few moments of silence Maria spoke up. "I was wondering could you give me a tattoo?" asked Maria to Ayako who looked slightly surprised. "I mean...I could but shouldn't you talk to your parents about it first." said Ayako to Maria who just let out another heavy sigh. "Come on Aya, you tattooed Sara when she was around my age. I'm just asking for a small one please?" asked Maria to Ayako who crossed her arms and stared at her for a few moments. "Sure take a seat." said Ayako to Maria who smiled brightly. Ayako figured she earned it after going through what she has been through. "What do you want?" asked Ayako to Maria. "I want a dog's paw on the right side of my neck." said Maria to Ayako who let out a heavy sigh. On the neck that was a tough spot but she wasn't gunna let Maria down. "Just give me a few minutes to draw in up and stencil it and we will be good." said Ayako to Maria. After five minutes Ayako was ready to go and Maria laid back on the chair. Ayako put on some punk music and after the song started to play she went to work.

After ten minutes tops the tattoo was done and Maria was just all smiles. Ayako then dressed the tattoo with a bandage and handed her some ointment. "Alright now apply this in two days but be sure to cover it up in the shower okay? You don't want to ruin it." explained Ayako to Maria who smiled and hugged Ayako. The Japanese woman just smiled at Maria and patted her on the back. "Thank you so much Ayako." said Maria as she kept hugging Ayako. "No problem Maria anytime." said Ayako to Maria. Maria then got up and started to walk out but something was puzzling Ayako. "Hey Maria. Why did you get a dog's paw?" asked Ayako to Maria who turned to look at her as she was never the door. "They say dogs are loyal and caring but to me it means my friendships will never end...Even if they are gone." said Maria to Ayako who just smiled and nodded. Soon enough Maria left the shop and went to go looking for Kinsley and the others. She figured they were at the skatepark so she headed there.

Kinsley Patterson
The Mariners

Posts: 43

Final Stop: Tragedy Oct 2, 2021 16:19:01 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Oct 2, 2021 16:19:01 GMT

With Maria leaving to go find Julio and William, Kinsley helped Gabby and Kellen load up what books they needed and the video. Once Kellen locked the library again, they got in the jeep and drove off. They had no idea that from a ways off they were being watched.

"There they go!" Melanie spoke. "They've been in there a long time!"

"Ah geez Mel!" Kelly said. "We've been here for hours! Why are we even stalking them!?"

"Because I saw them leave from the school! They're doing something for the militia since that dweeb Kellen is still in his uniform!"

"So they checked out some books! Big whoop!"

"Exactly! Kinsley and Gabby have been in the hospital all day working, and the first thing they do when they get out is get Maria and check out some books? And get a ride in a militia vehicle?"

"Maybe they're looking for medical literature or something?"

"No, it's something else I can feel it! Why else would they do it while everyone else is at the wake? I'm gonna find out what!"

"I don't know Mel... My brother said Kinsley helped him during the battle, and she's Mallory's cousin. And if we mess with Maria we might get Sara and her gang after us..."

"They're not gonna do shit! Especially if they're already doing things they're not supposed to. Now come on!"

Determined to find out what Kinsley, Maria and the others had been up to, Melanie went to library and broke into it. Meanwhile Kinsley, Gabby and Kellen arrived at militia headquarters and were about to disembark from the jeep when they were approached by Allie, Kinsley's older sister who was also in the militia.

"Where have you three been with that jeep!?" Allie asked. "Kellen, did they seriously make you take out a jeep and drive them around?"

"And good day to you too Allie, my sweet sister!" Kinsley said. "To answer your question; no, we didn't. We're actually on an errand for cousin Mal and it's need to know basis, and guess what? You don't need to know!"

"The fuck you are! Give me one good reason not to call this in! Kellen!?"

Kinsley sighed and facepalmed. Her sister got stuck in town during the uprising, missed the big fight and now she was uppity Miss Militia all of a sudden. Kinsley wasn't going to let her sister get in the way of things though.

"By all means Allie, call cousin Mal. We'll wait." Kinsley said. "I'm sure she'd love to hear about you stalling us on an errand she personally sent us on. She might even send Claudia to see what the hold up is."

Kinsley gave Allie a smug smile. Kellen had officially signed out the jeep and they had every right to be in it. Mallory probably wouldn't sent Claudia to see what was up but she'd definitely tell Allie to let them get on with what they were doing.

"Or we could y'know, get Kelso here to pull rank on you?" Kinsley continued. "Considering Mallory promoted him just earlier today!"

Kellen looked up at Allie and gave her a careful smile. It hadn't quite gotten through to him yet that he wasn't the lowest rank anymore, and that he outranked others now. It was enough to get Allie to back down though.

"Okay fine, go ahead... Corporal." Allie said reluctantly. "But if I find out you guys were just joyriding so help me Kinsley! You too Kellen! And don't think I haven't got my eye on you too Gabrielle Galytsin!"

Kinsley rolled her eyes. Gabby blew a kiss to Allie. Allie just gave Gabby the stinkeye and then walked away.

"Damn, she really went all in didn't she?" Gabby spoke. "GI Jane much?"

"Psssh, whatevs..." Kinsley answered. "She hates that I got called this morning to go along as a medic and she had to stay behind because she's just a grunt without any skill."

"Hah, imagine what happens if she finds out we actually got to do a super secret task for Mallory!"

"Yeah, I hate to be at your house tonight Kinsley!" Kellen said while grinning. It felt good for him to finally make a joke at someone else's expense.

Kinsley flipped both of her friends the bird, then went inside with them carrying the books to Mallory's office. Her cousin wasn't back yet, so they had to wait for a moment. The wake probably still wasn't over yet. Kinsley felt bad for not going, so she made a mental note to visit Ziggy later on. For now, she just wondered what else Mallory had in store for them.

Last Edit: Oct 2, 2021 16:22:29 GMT by Kinsley Patterson

Mallory Faraday
Administrator

The Boss Lady

How delightfully fuckin' morbid.

Posts: 237

Final Stop: Tragedy Oct 2, 2021 17:57:26 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Oct 2, 2021 17:57:26 GMT

Mallory spent most of the wake leaning forward, her hands folded and her forehead resting on them. She knew when she became the boss, a military leader at that, that at some point she'd start to lose people. She had hoped it would be easier, but no such luck. She hated having to make decisions that could potentially lead people to their death. If she could do all the dangerous work herself, she would. But that just wasn't an option.

With the wake ending, Mal sat up straight again and soon after she was approached by George. He seemed finally ready to have the talk she requested with him, yet a Japanese woman with an English accent accompanied him, insisting on coming too to function as his 'lawyer'.

Mallory shared Troy's confusion, and wasn't sure whether or not they were being for real. Apparently they were very much so. Troy made a comment about being the Pope and although Mallory normally would've joked about having the authority to make him the Pope of Bar Harbor, she instead chose to nudge her friend with her elbow instead, indicating to stay nice to the new folks. Mallory did have reservations about George feeling the need to bring a lawyer though.

"Uhh... I wasn't planning on violating your civil rights?" Mallory answered. "I don't even think we have those anymore, do we?"

Mallory awkwardly smiled and shrugged. She looked at Troy, then at George and his lawyer again. She was a bit at a loss here.

"We have a charter though..." Mallory continued. "You know, do's and don'ts. But... okay, you can tag along. Follow me."

Mallory stood up, gestured at George and Yumiko to follow her and led them through the hallways to her office. She was glad to see Kinsley, Kellen and Gabby there. They had bags with them containing books which most likely meant they had found something.

"George, Miss, please enter." Mallory said. "I'll be just a minute."

Mallory waited for George and Yumiko to enter her office, then closed the door and walked over to the teens.

"Okay, whatcha got guys?" Mallory asked. "Found something?"

"Happy to report we have more information on the subject of Dagon Ma'am!" Kellen said formally.

"You can say that." Kinsley said. "We found the lore about Dagon, even a movie. It's crazy Mallory."

"Crazy's all we got nowadays Kinsley." Mallory spoke. "Anything that might help?"

"Potentially... we need time to work it out though. That's... if you want us to?"

Mallory smiled at her cousin, then put her hands on both Kinsley's and Kellen's shoulders.

"Of course I want you to!" Mallory said. "But you guys have done enough for today though. Tell you what, be back here tomorrow morning. I'm about to talk to the leader of the Wisconsin people. Leave those books with me here, and I'll see you guys tomorrow bright and early okay? For now, go and relax. You too Kellen, that's an order."

"Yes Ma'am." Kellen responded, smiling.

"Thanks Mallory!" Kinsley said.

"And you guys know, top secret." Mallory said. "Not a word to anyone."

Kinsley nodded, then left with Kellen and Gabby. Mallory dragged the bag of books in her office and placed them behind her desk. She then sat down and faced George and Yumiko.

"Okay, thanks for meeting me." Mallory spoke. "I hope you don't mind me just cutting to the chase like this, but it would appear time is of the essence. The thing is, we investigated the train after we evacuated everyone and we found some... disturbing things. I'd like to know if you might be able to give us more insight on your attackers, more so; why they attacked you and if we can expect them to pursue you all the way here?"

Mallory leaned forward on her desk. In her face was a genuinely concerned look.

"Now let me first make it abundantly clear; if someone does come looking for you guys I have no intention of surrendering any one of you to save the town." Mallory continued. "That's not what we stand for here in Bar Harbor so you don't have to fear me making such a decision. We know how to fight, and we know sacrifice. Three of my people already died because they believed you guys to be worth saving, and I won't let their sacrifice be in vain."

Mallory paused for a second, she looked at both George and Yumiko, then took out the weapons with the Dagon symbol and placed them on her desk.

"We found these weapons on the train." Mallory continued. "There's a distinct symbol on them which is currently being investigated by some of my people. I can't however find any reference to its meaning in your people's testimonies, leading me to believe your people don't know what it means. Now, I know the burden of leadership can be hard and sometimes things have to be kept from our people. So I'm asking you George, do you know what this symbol stands for?"

Mallory wanted to know if George knew something or if she was about to tell him something new entirely. She wouldn't hold it against him if he kept it from his people though. People had enough to worry about without adding sea monsters to the mix. And if he didn't know anything they'd just have to keep researching like she had Kinsley, Kellen and the others do right now.

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Final Stop: Tragedy

Post by Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger on Aug 16, 2021 15:42:47 GMT

Post by Troy Morrow on Aug 21, 2021 18:42:22 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Aug 23, 2021 14:32:33 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Aug 27, 2021 2:21:06 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Aug 27, 2021 11:59:58 GMT

Post by Sieglinde 'Ziggy' Krüger on Aug 28, 2021 8:44:04 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Aug 28, 2021 9:22:58 GMT

Post by Troy Morrow on Sept 5, 2021 0:56:46 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Sept 15, 2021 3:36:44 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Sept 20, 2021 16:46:34 GMT

Post by Magna Dutton on Sept 21, 2021 7:57:32 GMT

Post by Maria Ramirez on Sept 25, 2021 4:22:33 GMT

Post by Ayako Sanada on Oct 1, 2021 20:34:57 GMT

Post by Kinsley Patterson on Oct 2, 2021 16:19:01 GMT

Post by Mallory Faraday on Oct 2, 2021 17:57:26 GMT

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