Margins: Fall of Empire Pt. 03

The prequel to Margins of Reality continues. While it's not necessary to read that story to understand this, it is definitely necessary to start reading this story from its beginning.

This story is long, and already complete. It will be posted in eight instalments, in as rapid succession as I can manage (without posting two the same day, ideally). In part 3, the wheels start moving to try to preserve the United States federal government.

Although certain characters are based on their prominent real-world equivalents, no claim is made as to the accuracy of that depiction. Each such character is a fictional creation, standing in for someone who actually exists, and may or may not resemble that individual. My depiction of them is entirely my own, and should not be confused with an attempt to accurately depict any real person.

Conversely, all other characters, all those who are not public figures, are entirely original characters and should not be conflated with anyone who might happen to be in a similar place at the time in question. Finally, it should go without saying that all dialogue and events are entirely fictional.

* * *

As always, the Quaranteam Writers' Room has been of enormous help, especially RonanJWilkerson. And of course, thanks are also due to my silent partner, who dealt with way more nightmare fuel than usual when supporting me writing this.

Shit…

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:55Z USSS

xWHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN 2026-03-22 08:55Z

oUSSS-MOGUL-DETAIL@MARQUEE-CP

x: COGCON 2, I say again COGCON 2. We need emergency notification on Mogul and low-vis soft move to PBI. No Stagecoach.

o: Copy. Arranging assets, will pass to Shift.

* * * * *

SECURE PAGER 2026-03-22 08:55Z (FEMA)

TIME: 2026-03-22 0855Z

MESSAGE TO: ERG-COORD-ALL, COG-COOP-OPERATIONS

COGCON 2. PROCEED WITH FINAL PREPARATIONS AND STAND BY FOR FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:55Z USSS

xWHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN 2026-03-22 08:55Z

oUSSS-MUSE-DETAIL@CROWN

x: COGCON 2, I say again COGCON 2. Emergency notification on Muse, Matrix and low-vis soft move to Andrews.

o: Copy. Arranging assets, will pass to Shift.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 08:55Z SITE R

RECORDING INFIRMARY/CLINIC BAY@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 08:55Z

PRESENT: LTC VICTORIA DANQUAH (MSC), LTC SALLY GOLDSTEIN RN (ANC), CPT ANTHONY OSWALD MD (MC), CPT PETER BOUCHER PA-C (SP), SSG ARNOLD CHEN CBET, SGT PHILLIP DONALD LPN, SGT CLARISSA CHANG RT(R), SGT CAROLINE PORTER EMT-P, SPC HENRY JONES, PFC MARIE CLARKSON

DANQUAH: Okay, how far along are we?

JONES: OR team is still working, they haven't reported progress. Otherwise the list is almost all checked off. I think the gas distribution system purge is in progress, and Specialist Pathak is working on inventory of the contingency supplies, but the main operational stuff is done.

CHEN: Sorry, purge just finished and cylinders are in place. Everything tests clean. Do we want any connected and brought up to pressure?

JONES: That's not on the list.

GOLDSTEIN: It depends on what we're getting ready for. We've got mobile oxygen, but getting medical air up would be a good idea.

DANQUAH: Well, maybe it's nearly time for coff—

[LOUD BELL]

[PAPER TEARING]

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

DANQUAH: [LOUD] Okay, get everyone back in here!

NO LONGER PRESENT: SPC HENRY JONES, PFC MARIE CLARKSON

OSWALD: Problem, Colonel?

DANQUAH: New orders. I don't want to have to say it twice.

[SILENCE: 5 SECONDS]

NOW PRESENT: MAJ CARL BONNEAU RN CNOR (ANC), CPT HAYLEY FRANKS RN CRNA (ANC), SSG PHILLIPA HERMAN CST, SGT BRYCE LINCOLN CST, SPC MANDEEP PATHAK CPhT, SPC HENRY JONES, PFC MARIE CLARKSON

BONNEAU: You wanted us, Colonel?

DANQUAH: Everyone needs to hear this. We're expecting the rest of our surge personnel in the next fifteen minutes, but we're also expecting VIP ERGs starting in around fifteen minutes. Increased risk of ERGs arriving with significant injuries, all categories. Increased risk of injuries during period of base activation. Prepare for trauma care.

BONNEAU: Do they say why?

DANQUAH: This is a continuity operation, Major. I expect everything is need-to-know.

OSWALD: Colonel, some of us got up in the middle of the night. We're short on sleep and short on people. If we're looking at a serious situation—

DANQUAH: No one's asking you to handle patients right now, Captain. Just prepare the facility. Anyone need instructions on how to do that? [PAUSE] Good. Get on with it.

MIXED VOICES: Yes, ma'am.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 08:55Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 08:55Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

COMMS WATCH: Flash notification and EAM, sir.

[RUSTLE]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: [LOUD] This is it. Condition two.

USSS LIAISON: Our units are already moving.

NCOIC: Codes?

BATTLE CAPTAIN: With you.

[CLICKING, PAPER RUSTLING]

NCOIC: Authentication Charlie Zulu Five Lima X-ray.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Authenticated.

NCOIC: Papa Bravo Three Uniform Eight Yankee.

[PAPER FLIPPING]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: COGCON Two, unconventional threat, restrict airspace.

[MURMURING]

NCOIC: Lima Seven Six Romeo Tango Two.

[PAPER FLIPPING]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Short lead time, ten to twenty minutes, high priority.

NO-ID 1: [QUIETLY] Shit, is this real?

LOGISTICS WATCH: [QUIETLY] Shut up.

[SOUNDS OF ACTIVITY INCREASE]

NCOIC: Mike Seven X-ray Romeo One Three.

[PAPER FLIPPING]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Prepare [MUMBLES, CLEARS THROAT] uh, prepare stand-off cryptographic identity verification of all personnel.

[BACKGROUND VOICES INCREASE SIGNIFICANTLY IN VOLUME AND COMPLEXITY]

ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN: Let's get to it.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:55Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@38.9230N77.0655W 2026-03-22 08:55Z

o1USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT@38.9230N77.0655W

o2USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT@38.9230N77.0655W

o3USSS-BARYONYX-SHIFT@38.9229N77.0656W

o4USSS-BANDIT-SHIFT@38.9230N77.0656W

o5USSS-BLUEBELL-SHIFT@38.9229N77.0655W

oUSSS-BOBCAT-ALL

…

o9USSS-BOBCAT-5@38.9229N77.0655W

…

o25USSS-UNIFORM-NAVOBS-P5@38.9215N77.0635W

x: All stations, Bobcat Detail. Taking control of site. Stand ready.

x: All Shifts, Detail. Prep for low-profile helo evac, max priority. Check presence and breathing on Baryonyx, Bandit, Bluebell before waking the parents.

o3: Detail, Baryonyx Shift. Copy, moving to check.

o4: Detail, Bluebell Shift. Moving.

o5: Detail, Bandit Shift. Moving.

o1: Detail, Shift. Confirm variation from SOP, we're holding for confirmation on the kids?

x: Confirmed, Shift.

o5: Clear chest movement on Bandit.

o3: Same on Baryonyx.

o4: Bluebell Shift. No clear view. Should I approach?

x: Just confirm ASAP, wake her if you have to.

o9: Shift, P1. Seven birds approaching south-southwest, all rotary. Two high altitude, five appear to be on an approach vector.

x: P1, Detail. They're expected. Five on approach designated Paddle One through Five. One and Two will land on the lawn, the rest will be nearby.

o4: Confirm Bluebell breathing.

x: Shifts, Detail, wake the principals, brief Bobcat and Blackstone for rapid evac by unmarked Black Hawk from lawn, ETA one minute, no delay.

o1: Tail, flanks, Shift. Grab the go-bags and coats. Rover-two, verify Mil-aide moving. Detail, I'm bumping.

o25: Control, P5. Four press and their wrangler approaching gate.

o1: Sorry sir, but we need to move you immediately. Both of you.

x: P5, Detail. Expected. Full ID check, no shortcuts. Once they're cleared, direct them to the east lawn. They should already know about it.

o1A: Can we get dressed?

o1: In the air, sir. We'll get your coats. Transport should be here anytime.

o1B: The children?

o1: Should already be moving.

o1B: Well then, let's go.

* * * * *

SECURE PAGER 2026-03-22 08:56Z CPB-EOC

TIME: 2026-03-22 0856Z

MESSAGE TO: MOC-ALL, MOC-COS-ALL

COGCON 2. MEMBERS IN NCR TO PREPARE TO TRAVEL TO RELOCATION STAGING AREAS AS BRIEFED. MEMBERS OUTSIDE NCR AWAIT FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS. STAFF TO SUPPORT WHERE POSSIBLE.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:56Z USSS

xUSSS-MOGUL-DETAIL@MARQUEE-CP 2026-03-22 08:56Z

oUSSS-MOGUL-SHIFT@26.6775N80.0375W

x: Shift, Detail. COGCON 2. Bump the door, hard evac. Soft move to PBI, hard cars staging at Post 20

o: Copy, moving. Conditions?

x: Ground is clear. Tasking off-shift to support at Post 20.

o: Copy, out.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:56Z USSS

xUSSS-MOGUL-SHIFT@26.6775N80.0375W 2026-03-22 08:56Z

oUSSS-MOGUL-08@26.6776N80.0373W

x: P20, Shift. Hard evac on soft move, assets staging at your location, report status?

o: Count five heavies lining up, status normal.

x: Copy. Expect off-shift for support. Out.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:56Z NORAD

xHUNTRESS@NORAD-EADS 2026-03-22 08:56Z

o1USAF-F16-121-52023

o2USAF-F16-121-52018

o3USAF-F16-121-52028

o4USAF-F16-121-52025

x: Noble One-One, Huntress. We've got you approaching mission corridor, skies clear.

o1: Huntress, Noble One-One. Confirmed. Do we have a go on Phase Two?

x: Affirm, that's a go.

o1: Three, Four, Lead. Orbit and await package. Two, with me, high-altitude sweep to Army Garrison Raven Rock.

o3: Three, wilco.

o2: Two, wilco.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 08:56Z USSS

xUSSS-MOGUL-SHIFT@26.6775N80.0375W 2026-03-22 08:56Z

oUSSS-MOGUL-ALL

o1USSS-MOGUL-01@26.6774N80.0375W

…

o6USSS-MOGUL-06@26.6775N80.0375W

o7USSS-MOGUL-07@26.6775N80.0375W

x: All units, Shift. Go for hard evac at Post 20. I'm on primary, P5 check routes, Tail check the red bags. Rover-one, check the Mil-Aide.

o7: P5, route is clear.

o1: Tail, Steward and Messenger are on it.

o6: Rover-one, she got her alert and is moving to join Tail.

x: All units, assume stations. Shift moving to principal. Out.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 08:57Z CIA

RECORDING DCIA@MOBILE 2026-03-22 08:57Z

PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, DRIVER

DCIA: You're Jenkins?

JENKINS: [DISTANT FROM PICKUP] Yes, sir.

DCIA: Well, hop on in, son. We need to get moving.

[DOOR CLOSES]

DCIA: This is Sandra, who's been stuck with the job of being my Special Assistant in this mess, and this is Colin, my EA. And we'll just call you Brian, if that's okay. I should warn you that this vehicle has been designated a SCIF for our current purposes, so if you would just give Colin any devices you may be carrying.

[SERIES OF RUSTLING SOUNDS]

[CLICK]

DCIA: Now, you've been in the thick of it for Downwind. I've seen the summaries and planning recommendations, but I want you to give me the whole thing, unvarnished. We're being recorded, and the recording is being relayed to multiple sites, hopefully you'll only have to do this once.

JENKINS: Well, ah, sir, I don't think there's much to add to the basic information in terms of the children, and the other side of the problem is a bigger problem for us right now, so I'll start with that, if it's okay.

DCIA: Go on.

JENKINS: Around 08:00 local, the model has more precise times, it depends exactly where you are, we can expect things to appear and attack people.

DCIA: Things? These monsters?

JENKINS: We're calling them Unexplained Biological Entities, or UBEs. It seems they can take almost any form, even appear human, and they kill people. Sometimes they seem to just go straight for an aggressive posture, and sometimes they wait, or move, to be able to take out as many as they can at once. They can be killed, but for some of them it's pretty hard.

DCIA: Where are we getting this?

JENKINS: Verified videos, most of the high-quality stuff is from Europe.

DCIA: Risk management?

JENKINS: The vast majority appear in urban areas, so relocation to unpopulated areas should mitigate risk and impact.

DCIA: Okay. I'm gonna want some examples of these Yoo-Bee-Ees, but that can wait until we're in the helo.

JENKINS: Helo, sir?

DCIA: We're going straight to our relocation point. Ever been to the Catoctins, Brian?

JENKINS: No, sir.

DCIA: They're a pretty sight. Shame we'll be inside them.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:00Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@38.9226N77.0655W 2026-03-22 09:00Z

o1USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT@38.9226N77.0655W

o2USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT@38.9227N77.0656W

o3USSS-BARYONYX-SHIFT@38.9227N77.0656W

o4USSS-BANDIT-SHIFT@38.9227N77.0656W

o5USSS-BLUEBELL-SHIFT@38.9227N77.0656W

o6WHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN

x: All Shifts, Detail. Sound off with status.

o1: Bobcat on board and secure.

o2: Blackstone on board and secure.

o3: Baryonyx on board and active.

o2A: Okay, honey, sit down and let them get the harness on you.

o3A: Why are we in a helicopter at night?

o2A: We'll talk about it later.

o4: Bandit on board, cooperative and secure.

o5: Bluebell on board and secure. She's gone back to sleep.

o3: Baryonyx on board and secure.

x: Dispatch, Detail. All packages on board, ready for wheels up.

o6: Copy, passing the go-ahead to flight crew.

[SILENCE: 30 SECONDS]

x: We're not moving, Dispatch.

o6: Confirmed, Detail. Awaiting confirmation on escort placement and support unit readiness. Don't want you waiting in the air, safer on the ground for now.

x: For now? Dispatch, Detail. We need to have a conversation about information sharing and situational awareness.

o6: Confirmed, Detail. Briefing at Site Romeo. Cleared for wheels up.

[ENGINE AND ROTOR SOUNDS FROM ALL OPEN MICS]

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:01Z USSS

xUSSS-MOGUL-DETAIL@26.6756N80.0417W 2026-03-22 09:01Z

oWHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN

x: Mogul en route to PBI, ETA Angel 12 minutes. SECSTATE briefing Mogul and Mil-Aide on COGCON background in hard car Stagecoach, position 2. Halfback position 3. LEO comms vehicle standing in as Roadrunner in position 4. Continuity Pool in position 5. Essential staff using the Zoo bus. CAT and additional PPD assets on advance.

o: Copy. Good work, Pete.

x: Do you think we'll finally get read in on this one?

o: Actually, yeah. After wheels up.

x: Shit. I was kidding.

o: Well, get it out of your system. Anything else you need?

x: Negative. Out.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:01Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 09:01Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

COMMS WATCH: Confirmation of destinations for senior leadership, sir. Secretaries of War and State, President and Vice President to Site Romeo. DNI and DCIA as well. Joint Chiefs are splitting between Romeo and High Point. Agriculture as Designated Survivor will be in a confidential location. Interior is too distant to recall, diverting to Ellington Field. Homeland Security is going to Warrenton. The rest of the cabinet's for High Point.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Logistics, do we have assets positioned for that?

LOGISTICS WATCH: Yes, sir. Individual details are gathering the civilian High Point group for helo transport. SECWAR is already in the air in an E-4B, the Chairman and CSAF are with him. The other Chiefs and Deputies are already gathered, half already on their way to Site Romeo and the rest are at Andrews, already boarding for High Point. The Vice Chairman is with them. And there's a Coast Guard helicopter lifting now, status indicators suggest the Commandant and the Secretary are aboard.

FEMA LIAISON: They didn't waste any time.

LOGISTICS WATCH: POTUS and SECSTATE are en route from Florida. They aren't going to arrive at Site Romeo before the deadline. No chance.

USSS LIAISON: I understand that there's some sort of provision for late entry to Raven Rock, where necessary?

ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN: For the President? I'm sure they'll find a way.

LOGISTICS WATCH: USDA is requesting three Ospreys to maintain secrecy regarding the Secretary's destination.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Two decoys? One's enough, tell them they can have two birds. We're still staging assets. Oh, and it looks like the IC moved ahead of the rest of us as well.

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

CIA LIAISON: No comment, Colonel.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:01Z JTF-NCR

xGUARDIAN MAIN@JTF-NCR 2026-03-22 09:01Z

o1USMC-AH1Z-733-101

o2USMC-AH1Z-733-105

o3USA-VH60-12-M0965

o4USA-UH60-12-M0263

o5USA-UH60-12-M0291

o6USA-UH60-12-M0289

o7USA-UH60-12-M0273

x: Sentry Two-One, Guardian Main. High Road Bravo packages are lifting, move to escort.

o1: Guardian Main, Sentry Two-One, copy, moving. Time to IP?

o3: Sentry Two-One, Capital Two-One, ETA forty-five seconds on [PAUSE] mark.

o1: Capital Two-One, Sentry Two-One, copy. Sentry Two-Two, stand by and provide high cover. I'm on point.

o2: Sentry Two-One, Sentry Two-Two, climbing fifteen hundred.

[SILENCE: 30 SECONDS]

o3: Sentry Two-One, Capital Two-One, visual on you.

o1: Capital Two-One, Sentry Two-One. Maintain one mile and remain on planned course unless instructed otherwise.

o2: Sentry Two-Two on high cover, keeping position relative to Capital Two-One.

o1: Guardian Main, Sentry Two-One. We have thermal contact two miles out at twelve o'clock. Squawking friendly, unbriefed. Confirm track identity.

x: Stand by, Sentry Two-One.

[SILENCE: 5 SECONDS]

x: Sentry Two-One, Guardian Main. Confirmed, tracks as Ghost One-One, agency transport out of Langley. Pull back and maintain two point five miles separation.

o1: Guardian Main, Sentry Two-One, copy. High Road Bravo proceeding as planned.

x: Copy, Sentry Two-One. Keep it boring.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:03Z USPP

xUSPP-EPD-LEAD@29.7519N95.3606W 2026-03-22 09:03Z

oUSPP-EPD-DISPATCH@USPP-HQ

x: Control, Lead. Bumping the door now.

o: Acknowledged. Transport ready at point 12 in five.

x: [DOOR CLICKS]

x: Sorry to wake you, Mister Secretary. We need to go. Now.

xA: [SLURRED] What?

x: We're at COGCON 2, sir. We need to take you to a secure location. The cars will be at an emergency exit in five minutes.

xA: Can I take a shower?

x: I'd advise against that, Mister Secretary. We haven't been briefed on the threat, but we need to get you to Ellington Field as soon as possible.

xA: Can I get dressed? Or am I supposed to go down the stairs in my shorts?

x: I brought you a sweatsuit, sir.

x: [SHUFFLING SOUNDS]

xA: [MUFFLED] What about my staff?

x: Anyone on the ERG list is being woken up.

xA: And we leave the rest behind?

x: That's how it works, sir.

xA: Can I call my wife?

x: I can't stop you, sir, but it could compromise the entire operation.

xA: What operation?

x: We're at COGCON 2, sir, and we expect escalation. Everyone in the line of succession and operationally essential staff from all departments and agencies needs to prepare for relocation to a designated secure location with appropriate communications links.

xA: Why?

x: It's standard pro—

xA: No, I mean why are we at COGCON 2?

x: That's need-to-know, sir, and we don't need to know in order to secure you. I'm sure you'll be briefed at some point, Mister Secretary.

xA: Okay, then. Let's go.

x: Control, Lead. Package is moving.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 09:07Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 09:07Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

oNSA-SAPF-12@NSA-HQ

PRESENT: ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); JOANN WONG (NGA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

WONG: There's just a skeleton on the watch floor here, I think.

RIVERA: Might want to rephrase that, considering.

[DOOR BUZZES, CLICKS]

NOW PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA)

MALCOLMSON: [BRITISH STANDARD ACCENT] Good morning.

RIVERA: Uh, I don't know who updated the access controls, but the compartment is NOFORN.

MALCOLMSON: What? Oh, yes, all this in the way, you can't see my badge. Sorry. See, normal blue. Carol Malcolmson, NSA. I'm the stay-behind liaison. I need someone to inspect the seal on my equipment bag and watch me open it. Oh, and I need to connect my TACLANE.

RIVERA: That would be Javid, he's in the support office.

[INTERNAL DOOR CLICKS]

FARHANG: Hi, Ms. Malcolmson. I think they may have forgotten to let us know you were coming, I just checked when I got the vestibule ping. I'll need to check full biometrics with your CAC—

MALCOLMSON: [SNORT] [PAUSE] Sorry, sorry, I thought I got over that, oh at least a couple of years ago, but the tension of the situation, well.

[QUIET BEEPING AND KEY TAPS]

MALCOLMSON: In case they've not been keeping you in the loop, I know this isn't because of my accent. They're asking for triple verification for pretty much everything.

FARHANG: Okay, let's get your gear installed, then I'll sign off on your equipment bag. What have you got in there?

MALCOLMSON: [GETTING QUIETER WITH DISTANCE FROM PICKUP] NSA laptop and things, nothing m—

[INTERNAL DOOR CLICKS]

RIVERA: Well, that was unexpected.

MCAULEY: The liaison showing up here?

RIVERA: No. Well, yeah, in the sense that they didn't tell us. I meant us getting a liaison who sounds like they walked out of a movie or something. I didn't think any Brit actually sounded like that.

DROPPED: NSA-SAPF-12@NSA-HQ

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:10Z SITE R

RECORDING SECURITY OFFICE@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 09:10Z

PRESENT: HEAD OF SECURITY, 1LT SHAUN CALDWELL (BUILDING SECURITY LEAD), SECURITY PERSONNEL

HEAD OF SECURITY: So, expect anything. But other than from your people, the medical team, plus those off-shift and a few other military personnel, this building is housing civilian contractors. That and off-shift soldiers. You don't tell anyone what's really going on until we tell you. Unless an officer tells you otherwise, assume anyone you run into here isn't cleared. Is that understood?

CALDWELL: Yes, Major. I figure our job's gonna be easier if people don't know, anyways.

HEAD OF SECURITY: That's the point. Good luck.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:14Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 09:14Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

NCOIC: Uniform Hotel Three Five Alpha Bravo

[PAPER FLIPPING]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Destination configuration five. Logistics, look that up.

LOGISTICS WATCH: Yes, sir.

NCOIC: Lima One Romeo Tango Six Bravo

[PAPER FLIPPING]

[BACKGROUND NOISE: 2 SECONDS]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Say again.

NCOIC: Lima One Romeo Tango Six Bravo

USSS LIAISON: Angel is wheels up.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: [COUGH, SPUTTER] Maximum security caution. Maintain visual contact within units at all times. ID all ERGs cryptographically at standoff distance. ID all unit members cryptographically after loss of visual contact. Warn only once if approached by any unidentified party. If approach continues, [QUIET] apply [PAUSE] apply lethal force.

[NEAR TOTAL SILENCE]

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:15Z SITE R

RECORDING PERIMETER SECURITY CONTROL@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 09:15Z

PRESENT: 1LT SHAUN CALDWELL, KYLE MCCARTHY (PFPA), LUC BONHOMME (PFPA), PFPA SECURITY STAFF

CALDWELL: Sorry to trouble you, Commander, but I've been asked to coordinate with you on security matters. The major is occupied elsewhere, as is his staff.

MCCARTHY: If there's anything I need to know, they can reach me on the phone. Or email, we still have that.

CALDWELL: I understand there's a whole briefing packet on its way to you. But we need to discuss the possibility of redeploying some of your forces inside the mountain.

MCCARTHY: The only people I have inside the mountain are at the interior portal checkpoints and a handful to patrol the cavern.

CALDWELL: The major thinks we may need an option to rapidly take some of the people off the outside perimeter.

MCCARTHY: We're going to lock those people out at some point, Lieutenant.

CALDWELL: Mr. McCarthy, this is way outside my normal responsibilities, but I'm asking you to trust me that the situation here isn't anything we've planned for.

MCCARTHY: Fine. Luc? Work up some options for drawing down perimeter security to reinforce positions inside the mountain. I want to review them in thirty minutes.

BONHOMME: Already working on it, sir.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:17Z FBI

xFBI-AGPD-LEAD@38.8455N77.01425W 2026-03-22 09:17Z

xA: AG

oAGPD-CONTROL@FBI-WFO

x: Control, Lead. Package awaiting transport.

o: Copy, Lead. Osprey inbound, but you'll probably be waiting longer for more passengers. JOC is directing several Cabinet officials to your location.

xA: Can you find out what's going on?

x: Copy that, Control?

o: Sum total of our information is COGCON 1, designated senior civilian contingency ERGs to High Point. Can't even tell you who'll be on the same bird.

x: Ma'am, we're taking you and other Cabinet members to Mount Weather. This is a high-priority relocation. I assume you'll be briefed there.

[SILENCE: 1 MINUTE]

x: Control, Lead. Seeing two Suburbans inbound. Osprey descending.

o: Expect six principals with with escorts. I'll try to find out if those two are together.

xA: If I'd known I'd be waiting around like this, I'd have gotten dressed properly.

x: Yes, ma'am.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:19Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 09:19Z

PRESENT: CMC, CNO, VCSO, VCNGB, VCSA, DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

CNO: John, you made it.

DCIA: We try not to waste time at Langley, Daryl.

[CHUCKLES]

COMMS OFFICER: [UNCLEAR MUMBLING]

BATTLE DIRECTOR: Garrison command reports VP is on approach.

CMC: Any trouble at the door?

DCIA: Kept us at arm's length until we'd validated our PIVs, but otherwise fine.

EA-DCIA: [UNCLEAR MUMBLING]

DCIA: Well, I suppose the raised weapons might be a bit off-putting. Do we have desks for my people?

BATTLE DIRECTOR: Take that cluster over there, sir. You have a seat at the main table.

DCIA: And I'll take it when there's a real conversation happening. Thank you, Admiral, but I'll see my people settled in first.

EA-DCIA: This will be your station, Mr. Jenkins.

JENKINS: Thanks. Can I get a link back to the Downwind vault at Langley? I've been out of the loop for a while.

COMMS OFFICER: Outside live links are restricted at the moment. We don't know how much demand we're going to have. We've got a hard line to CIA headquarters, of course, but there are also OPSEC considerations. I'll put the request on the list. Admiral's pretty busy, though. It might take a little while.

DCIA: Thank you, Colonel. I'll bug him about it once we're set up. Sandra, are you set?

SA-DCIA: Yes, sir. Access to the Downwind shared files is live. Brian, let's try to catch up on paper while we wait.

JENKINS: Well, I— yeah, let's do that.

DCIA: Okay. Colin, with me. There should be an actual office for me somewhere around here. A cubicle at least.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:20Z SITE R

RECORDING CONF-A2@SITE-R 2026-03-22 09:20Z

PRESENT: 1LT SHAUN CALDWELL, SSG BARRY CARROLL, SGT FRANK REINHARDT, SGT DIANE CARTER, SGT FILIZ YILDIRIM, SGT DAVID BLUNT, OTHER SECURITY PERSONNEL

CALDWELL: So we're hoping we've mitigated the risks that caused problems elsewhere, but basically anything could happen. Never go anywhere alone, and challenge anyone you see alone. The situation may be more dangerous in the cavern, we can't tell, so we need every door sealed and manned. Do not open it for anyone who's alone unless you can keep them well-covered while they're checked, and don't open them for a group unless everyone can verify ID with the card reader. Any questions?

REINHARDT: So, what would these things look like?

CARROLL: Weren't you listening, Sergeant? Anything. Literally anything. Anyone. So stay on your toes.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

CALDWELL: If you think of anything else, ask your section leaders. Dismissed.

NO LONGER PRESENT: SGT FRANK REINHARDT, SGT DIANE CARTER, SGT FILIZ YILDIRIM, SGT DAVID BLUNT, OTHER SECURITY PERSONNEL

CALDWELL: Okay, Staff Sergeant. Let's bring in the internal patrol teams.

CARROLL: Yes, sir.

CALDWELL: Anything you think I ought to cover in particular?

CARROLL: Maybe give them a little less detail, sir, and emphasize the need to keep people calm.

CALDWELL: Okay, bring them in.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:21Z HMX-01

RECORDING MV-22(CVR)@38.8671N77.0464W 2026-03-22 09:21Z

PRESENT: SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE (SECRETARY), AIDE, MIL-AIDE, USSS-1, USSS-2, OSSP-1, OSSP-2, PILOT, CO-PILOT, CREW-1, CREW-2, SUPPORT STAFF

CREW-1: Welcome aboard, Madam Secretary.

SECRETARY: Thank you. I need to give the pilot our destination and flight plan.

CREW-1: I can take that to her, ma'am.

USSS-1: We'd recommend hand delivery, ma'am.

CREW-1: Okay. Come on through.

[SHUFFLING AND CLUNKING NOISES ON HELMET MICS]

PILOT: Madam Secretary. Something I can help you with?

SECRETARY: Flight plan and destination. Need-to-know, Major.

[THUNK, CLICK, BEEP]

SECRETARY: Bruce, does that check out?

MIL-AIDE: Yes, the system has the right authentication. It needs your key, ma'am.

[CLUNK, TAPPING, BEEP]

PILOT: Flight plan loading. [PAUSE] I thought that was decommissioned.

AIDE: Not entirely. The Navy and Air Force are already getting things set up, and we have the final pieces of communications equipment aboard.

PILOT: Okay, head back and strap in, ma'am. We've got a little time to spare until lock-in, but my briefing was to get it done ASAP.

SECRETARY: Thank you, Major. I'll do that.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 09:23Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 09:23Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); JOANN WONG (NGA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

RIVERA: Holy shit.

MCAULEY: What?

RIVERA: I'm going to assume that the triage team was more overworked than us. Or poorly instructed. Or both.

WONG: Why?

RIVERA: Because the alternative is that we have complete idiots working at the agency.

MALCOLMSON: I think she was asking what they'd done wrong.

RIVERA: I finally found the high-interest 911 logs. They weren't anywhere logical. And. I just.

MALCOLMSON: Out with it. What's wrong?

RIVERA: It's here. It's been here for hours. Just like I fucking said. Fuck. Spiky worms dragging a guy underground in Indianapolis, around 01:45 local. That's…

WONG: About midnight local mean time.

RIVERA: And this sounds like casino cameras coming to life and killing people.

WONG: Where?

RIVERA: Reno. 01:02 local.

WONG: Same.

RIVERA: Tip of the iceberg. There's maybe three dozen files here, but some look like duplicates. Fucking midnight, just like I said.

MALCOLMSON: You put that in your model, alternative three.

RIVERA: And no one listened. I should have made them listen.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

MCAULEY: So, what now?

RIVERA: We try to figure out what's really going on. We don't have enough people to handle all the incoming data now. Warrenton can handle that, they should be up and running soon, they'll check in. Bob, keep an eye on the incoming data to see if there's anything big. And go through the 911 logs, add them to the timeline in the model.

MALCOLMSON: What can I do?

RIVERA: You tell me. I mean, you can update Jaz's traffic volume data, run it on the US. But other then that, I'm not sure what we need NSA skills for right now.

MALCOLMSON: I have access and a brain. I can do more than just communication analysis.

RIVERA: Fine. We've got this huge feed of military data we haven't looked at. Start digging.

WONG: Split it in half. I'll take some, too.

MALCOLMSON: And what are you going to do?

RIVERA: Step back. Big picture. I had another gut feeling that we wrote off. Let's just hope that one doesn't pan out as well.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:24Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 09:24Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

LOGISTICS WATCH: Metro, Park, and Capitol Police confirm road closures. Board is clear for ground transportation.

USCP LIAISON: Our collection points in Capitol South and Navy Yard have the ID corridors up. I need to ask this again. Are we really supposed to shoot ERGs who fail to verify their ID?

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Those are our orders, Captain. They aren't binding on you. Talk to your Sergeants at Arms.

USCP LIAISON: And the troops supporting our positions?

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Aren't manning the ID apparatus. They're on perimeter watch. But if anyone, anyone at all, approaches them after they've ordered them to halt, they will carry out their orders.

USCP LIAISON: Thank you for the clarification, Colonel.

USSS LIAISON: Bobcat has touched down at the Raven Rock complex.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:24Z NIGHTWATCH-ALPHA

RECORDING CONFERENCE ROOM@NIGHTWATCH-ALPHA IN-FLIGHT@39.0173N76.8439W 2026-03-22 09:24Z

PRESENT: SECDEF, CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CSAF-ADC

PA SPEAKER: We're now at cruising altitude, maintaining holding pattern theta at eleven miles.

CJCS: Mister Secretary, we're ready to update you on the situation. Everyone aboard has been read in on Downwind, but we have more up-to-date analysis. Pete will brief you.

SECDEF: Go ahead, Colonel.

CJCS-ADC: Thank you, Mister Secretary. Our staff has been over the model as it stood roughly ten minutes ago. Data continues to suggest—

[DOOR BUZZES, CLICKS]

NOW PRESENT: CSAF

CJCS: Everything okay, Ken?

CSAF: I was just having staff double-check our flight plan. I've had them modify the holding pattern to avoid urban areas.

CJCS: Good idea. Carry on, Pete.

CJCS-ADC: As I was saying, data continues to support the onset of Downwind phenomena around 07:00 local, and almost entirely restricted to urban areas.

SECDEF: Now hang on a second, I was there, on the line, when everything went to hell on the Gideon Welles and its escort. That wasn't a built-up area.

CJCS-ADC: No sir. I'm not sure if that's considered one of the outliers, or if those ships fit the model of an urban area. I'm sure you've heard people call carriers floating cities.

SECDEF: Of course.

CJCS-ADC: Anyway, we didn't have time to examine the underlying data in the model, so I can't comment on that specifically.

SEAC: Gentleman, may I?

CJCS: Of course, Dave.

SEAC: If the Gideon Welles is a city afloat, aren't Site R and High Point going to be cities underground?

CJCS-ADC: It's a valid question, Master Chief. We're not going to reach anything like the number of people aboard a Ford-class.

SEAC: The escorts were Arleigh Burke-class, sir. They had nothing close to that number either.

CJCS-ADC: We're hoping that it was either really bad luck, or that despite the distance, the group somehow counted as one place. But we have considered that, and we're delaying our own transition to Site R until we've had a chance to see if anything happens once the mountain is staffed up. Mister Secretary, we're working on the best information we have. The CIA has had that recording since minutes after the conference ended. We have to assume that it's been taken into account. In any case, it's your decision, once we have reports from Site R, whether you stay in the air or join the rest of our military leadership there.

SECDEF: How long can we stay up?

CSAF: We have KC-135s in the air and on standby, sir. But we can't assume that we'll be able to launch more when those aloft need to land. We can't assume that they'll be left untouched. We can guarantee twenty-four hours, thirty is likely. If the tankers on the ground remain available, we could manage several days.

SECDEF: Well, when I have to make that decision, I'll want advice from each of you, gentlemen. Anything else?

CJCS: We thought you might like an update on the disposition of ERGs, Mister Secretary.

SECDEF: Oh, yeah. Yeah, of course.

CSAF: Carl?

CSAF-ADC: Destinations have all been established, and initial movement of principals is underway. The Vice President should just be approaching Site R now. The President is making best speed…

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:25Z USCP

RECORDING CONGRESSIONAL ASSEMBLY POINT SE-2@38.8763N77.0045W 2026-03-22 09:25Z

PRESENT: USCP-LEAD, USCP-OFF-1, USCP-OFF-2, USCP-DISP-COORD, JTF-LIAISON, HOUSE-CA51, HOUSE-FL03, HOUSE-FL10, HOUSE-FL19, HOUSE-NY14, HOUSE-TN02, HOUSE-WI01, SENATE-AL-3, SENATE-GA-2, SENATE-MO-1

USCP-LEAD: [USING BULLHORN] Okay, one at a time into the ID gate. Guidance from the Executive Branch is to use cryptographic ID, but we don't have that. So you're going to put your ID in the scanner face up, step away, and look straight ahead. When we confirm, we'll call you through.

HOUSE-WI01: [SHOUTING] What is this nonsense? Don't you need to get us on the buses?

USCP-LEAD: [USING BULLHORN] As quick as we can, yes, sir. But the nature of the emergency makes ID verification essential, and we're advised to do it before allowing close approach. We don't have orders to shoot anyone, but the troops supporting our perimeter do.

HOUSE-NY14: For God's sake, Bryan. It won't get any quicker from arguing.

[SILENCE: 5 SECONDS]

USCP-LEAD: Come on through, ma'am. Please speak to my colleague about dispersal assignments.

HOUSE-NY14: Thank you, Officer.

USCP-DISP-COORD: Ma'am, you're down for ground transport out of the National Capital Region, so please you'll make your way to the buses. Don't get aboard though. We're not finalizing groups until we see who shows up.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:26Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W 2026-03-22 09:26Z

GUARD

o1USSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@39.7346N77.4304W

o2USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o3USSS-BARYONYX-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o4USSS-BANDIT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o5USSS-BLUEBELL-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o6WHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN

x: Detail, Shift. Package touched down, approaching Site Romeo. Checkpoint has been modified.

o1: Dispatch, Detail. Are we expecting altered entry protocols?

o6: Heightened security, Detail. Comply with all requests, and have crypto ID ready.

o1: All points, Detail. Security upgrades. Crypto ID required, comply with all instructions.

o2: Detail, Blackstone Shift. Blackstone is concerned about the kids, no one gave them crypto IDs, and she's not sure she remembers her code.

o2A: I wasn't exactly expecting to use it. The thing lives in my go-bag.

o1: Stand by, Blackstone Shift. Protocols don't account for personnel without ID.

x: Bobcat's refusing to enter until this is resolved.

xB: [AMPLIFIED] Halt at the perimeter. One at a time, CAC or PIV in the reader and authenticate.

x: Mister Vice President, this is not a negotiation. We have to get you inside.

xA: Well, you can pick me up and carry me, Jake, but you can't force me to enter my code.

x: Detail, Shift. We may be at an impasse, Bobcat is refusing to comply with authentication until the situation with his family is resolved.

o1: Dispatch, Detail. We need a resolution for Blackstone and the children. Protocol makes body grab impossible.

o6: Copy that, Detail. Working on a solution.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:28Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 09:28Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

USSS LIAISON: What I'm trying to say is that if we can't find a resolution, it's possible that the only way to carry out our mission will be for our agents to attempt to shoot their way into the mountain. Our instructions are that the only way to secure a package is in that facility.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: No one in this room has the authority to countermand the orders regarding authentication.

USSS LIAISON: Find someone who does.

CIA LIAISON: We're trying to get advice from SMEs. We'll pass details to Air Force One ASAP and hopefully get a modification to those orders.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 09:29Z SITE R

xNSA@ANGEL 2026-03-22 09:28Z

oCONF-B3@SITE-R

PRESENT: SECSTATE, DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA)

DCIA: You're on with our subject matter expert, sir. Brian Jenkins.

SECSTATE: Okay, you're speaking to me as NSA. Jenkins, we've implemented the recommendations from your agency to validate crypto IDs before permitting approach to any secure space. We have a situation with the Second Family. The VP is refusing to enter Site R without his family, and his family has no IDs.

JENKINS: Uh, well, sir, I think something may have been lost in translation. The words "where possible" were in those recommendations, I believe.

SECSTATE: The final approved package of orders erred on the side of caution.

JENKINS: With all due respect, sir, that level of caution will make this operation impossible. A significant portion of ERGs don't have crypto ID.

SECSTATE: And anyone could be a UBE, correct?

JENKINS: We have no confirmation that they ever imitate a known individual, sir. Nor that they use that camouflage to completely maximize casualties. They seem to want to start killing pretty soon.

SECSTATE: But one of the VP's children could have been removed and a UBE substituted, correct?

JENKINS: It's not impossible, sir, but at this point I'd say nothing is. That possibility is based on a hypothetical with no supporting data. Its merit is a simpler explanatory model. The counter-argument in this case is behavior. If they've traveled as a group to Site R, I would have expected them to take out everyone in the same vehicle before they got there.

SECSTATE: How confident are you of that?

JENKINS: There's no perfect confidence, sir, but there's precisely zero evidence of a UBE being restrained enough, or cunning enough, to hold itself back in order to get to an area where they can do more damage. And there's no indication that they want to do anything but kill. They wouldn't have any interest in deliberately targeting strategic locations.

SECSTATE: Okay. I'll take it to the President.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:30Z SITE R

RECORDING BUNKING SECTION C/VESTIBULE@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 09:30Z

PRESENT: TYLER WATSON (CONTRACTOR), SIERRA ANDREWS (CONTRACTOR)

WATSON: So, we're not on duty until ten. Maybe we should catch up on sleep, seeing as we got dragged in here in the middle of the night.

ANDREWS: If that's what you want, go ahead. I'm going to the chapel.

WATSON: Why you want to do a thing like that? It'll just be a drill.

ANDREWS: Maybe. But I was in the last big exercise here. The soldiers didn't look like that then. I can't help but feel that it might be a good time to pray.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 09:31Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 09:31Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); JOANN WONG (NGA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

MALCOLMSON: Uh, Lorrie? I think you need to hear this.

RIVERA: What?

MALCOLMSON: Conference call with the COs of Carrier Strike Group Six. USS Gideon Welles.

MCAULEY: Chief Foster, sorry, Leia, told us about that.

RIVERA: Leia, if you're there, what happened to the Gideon Welles?

CPO FOSTER: Their status went privileged. I don't know.

RIVERA: When?

CPO FOSTER: Around 07:40. Zulu.

MALCOLMSON: This call runs from 07:23 to 08:08. I've edited it down to highlights, but you'll want to hear the whole thing.

RIVERA: Highlights on speaker. Now.

RECORDING: [LOW QUALITY] The Paulding just blew up, sir.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:31Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W 2026-03-22 09:31Z

GUARD

o1USSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@39.7346N77.4304W

o2USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o3USSS-BARYONYX-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o4USSS-BANDIT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o5USSS-BLUEBELL-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o6WHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN

o7USSS-BOBCAT-CAT-LEAD@39.7346N77.4304W

x: Detail, Shift. We could really use an update.

o1: Shift, Detail. Situation?

x: Weapons drawn and leveled.

o2: Blackstone Shift. Blackstone and the kids are pretty distressed.

o2A: [CRYING]

o1: Targets?

x: Security has reinforcements and are targeting all principals and agents. Principals now sheltered.

xB: We need you to either ID right now or turn around and leave.

o1: Dispatch, Detail. Have you been monitoring?

o6: Confirmed, Detail. High alert. You've already had more warnings than is consistent with their orders.

o1: Instructions, Dispatch?

o6: Stick to protocol.

o1: Copy. CAT, Detail. Deploy in support. Everyone go to hot mics.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:32Z USCP

RECORDING CONGRESSIONAL TRANSPORT MUSTER STATION SE-2-C@38.8756N77.0057W 2026-03-22 09:32Z

PRESENT: USCP-DISP-COORD, HOUSE-FL19, HOUSE-NY14, HOUSE-WI01, SENATE-AL-3, SENATE-GA-2, SENATE-MO-1, USCP-OFF-2, USA-SGT, USA-CPL-1, USA-CPL-2

USCP-DISP-COORD: Okay, this isn't an ideal group, but a few more people and it'll do. This would have to happen on the weekend.

HOUSE-NY14: What happens to everyone who's back in their districts?

USCP-DISP-COORD: We're working with local federal assets, putting people in as remote a federal location as we can get. It's actually good, as far as getting people dispersed is concerned. It's a headache, though.

SENATE-AL-3: So where are we going?

USCP-DISP-COORD: Same idea. First wave is being split between the farthest we can get by road, and the farthest military airfields we can get. We're trying to send people west where possible, don't ask me why. Primary consideration is remoteness. We've put in an RFA and we're getting some spare buses from the Secret Service, but you're not going to need those. You're going somewhere that's got all the communications needed, and the route should be secure.

SENATE-MO-1: You didn't answer her question.

USCP-DISP-COORD: Full details once you're underway, sir. A rural location heading north. These soldiers will be part of your escort. But because of the new security concerns, we need to get you all new IDs. Officer, Sergeant.

USCP-OFF-2: These cards have been initialized with keys allocated to you.

HOUSE-WI01: Why is my name in Sharpie?

USCP-OFF-2: We didn't have time to print them, so no photo on the card. I'm told they're on the chip. Now we need you each to set your codes. Six digits.

USA-SGT: Go ahead and insert it here, sir, and enter your code twice.

USCP-DISP-COORD: And make sure you can remember it, please. Now that you've got these cards, you're under full restrictions.

HOUSE-NY14: And what are those restrictions?

USA-SGT: If you've been out of line-of-sight, you need to authenticate using the card. If you approach without doing so, you'll be shot.

HOUSE-NY14: Why?

USA-SGT: I couldn't tell you, ma'am. Just following orders.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:33Z USMS

xUSMS-SCOTUS-RELOC-CJ-LEAD@38.9983N77.0966W (IN MOTION) 2026-03-22 09:33Z

x: Dispatch, Lead. Approaching LZ. Is our ride here?

o1: You're getting an Army bird, Lead. I'll patch in our desk at the JTF.

x: Copy, Dispatch.

xA: I thought we were supposed to get into groups of three with a spread of seniority. Where's Sonia?

x: We're not using any of the standard plans, Mister Chief Justice. I don't know why, but we're supposed to get you to secure locations, in groups no larger than three, as quickly as possible.

xB: We're only together because we live nearby, John.

xA: I figured that out, thanks.

o1: Lead, Dispatch. JTF on the line.

o2: Yeah, we've got a Black Hawk on the ground with a pilot and two additional escorts. They can man the door guns, if necessary. Rotors spinning up now, we'll have you in the air as soon as you're aboard.

xA: Did she say door guns?

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:34Z JTF-NCR

RECORDING BATTLE CAPTAIN'S DESK@JTF-NCR JOC 2026-03-22 09:34Z

PRESENT: BATTLE CAPTAIN, ASST BATTLE CAPTAIN, NCOIC, INTEL WATCH, LOGISTICS WATCH, COMMS WATCH, AVIATION LIAISON, FAA LIAISON, USSS LIAISON, USCP LIAISON, USMS LIAISON, DOJ LIAISON, FEMA LIAISON, CIA LIAISON

USSS LIAISON: We're looking at significant escalation, Colonel.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Comms, do we have anything?

COMMS WATCH: Nothing relevant, sir.

[LOUD BELL]

COMMS WATCH: Flash override. Modifications to orders.

[PAPER RUSTLES]

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Get Site R, make sure they got it as well.

USSS LIAISON: If that's an update, I should pass it to our command.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: They should have received it as well.

USSS LIAISON: This is not the time to rely on that, Colonel.

BATTLE CAPTAIN: Comms!

[PAPER RUSTLES]

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:35Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W 2026-03-22 09:35Z

GUARD

OFFICER

o1USSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@39.7346N77.4304W

o2USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o3USSS-BARYONYX-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o4USSS-BANDIT-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o5USSS-BLUEBELL-SHIFT@39.7368N77.4269W

o6WHCA-USSS-DISPATCH@CROWN

o7USSS-BOBCAT-CAT-LEAD@39.7346N77.4304W

x: And I have to warn you, any hostile action will be met with whatever force is necessary.

xA: This is crazy.

o2A: [CRYING]

xB: Turn around and leave, and no one needs to get hurt.

x: Not going to happen.

o6: All points, de-escalate.

o1: Dispatch, Detail. Explain.

o6: New orders are on their way to the guards. Comply with the request. Permission to proceed will follow.

o7: That's a negative. They could advance their position and get more reinforcements while we wait.

xA: If we start shooting you'll have to fight everyone in the mountain!

x: We need to get you to a safe location, sir. This is not negotiable. I don't know why, but our instructions are that the only safe locations are secure military installations.

xA: Someone will resolve this. Let's just back off and give it time.

xB: Final warning. We are prepared to open fire.

o2A: [CRYING, WAILING]

o2B: Shh, shh, it's okay.

xB: Sight in!

xC: Stand down, Sergeant! New orders!

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:36Z SITE R

RECORDING CAFETERIA/FRONT-MIC@SITE-R 2026-03-22 09:36Z

PRESENT: CPL JAMES DARE, SPC LEWIS BRIGHT

BRIGHT: Keep them calm. Do they think having us standing around in full combat gear is going to keep people calm?

DARE: Try not to loom, I guess.

BRIGHT: Did the sergeant actually tell us we had to stay by the doors? I mean, there's a fixed post right on the other side, right?

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

DARE: What are you suggesting?

BRIGHT: Well, maybe we could [PAUSE] mingle.

DARE: You want me to radio and ask for permission to mingle?

BRIGHT: We need to keep an eye on everyone, and keep them calm. Maybe we should have couple more of us in here, and we just, you know, drift around. Join in on conversations.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

DARE: That's a dumb-ass idea, but there might be something to it.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:37Z USMS

xUSMS-SCOTUS-RELOC-G3-LEAD@38.8697N77.0170W 2026-03-22 09:37Z

o1SCOTUS-SECURITY-DISPATCH

o2USMC-MV22-HMX1-213

x: Dispatch, Lead. We're at the field.

o1: Copy, Lead. I'll patch you through to your pilot.

xC: I'm sure we passed some places a helicopter could land on the way here. Did we really need to do this from a base?

x: No, Madam Justice. We could have secured anywhere, at this point.

xC: Then why—

x: One moment, ma'am.

o2: Converting for landing. We need you to back off to the paved area.

x: Copy, pulling back to B Street. Justices, back to the cars, please.

xB: Unless they land on top of us, we'll be fine.

xA: I'm sure they've got their reasons.

x: [LOUD MECHANICAL ROARING]

xA: [SHOUTING, BARELY AUDIBLE] I don't think we're getting a helicopter.

x: [ROARING SUBSIDES]

o2A: Ready for you to come aboard.

[ASSORTED NOISES FROM VARIOUS SOURCES: 90 SECONDS]

xC: Why are we—

x: We were only offered one Osprey, and of our evacuation groups, you were closest to a suitable field. Whatever's happening is coming from the east, moving ahead of the sun. We're taking you as far west as we can, we'll have you somewhere as safe as we can make it well before recommended lock-in time.

o2A: I need everyone to strap in. And I hope no one minds oxygen masks.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:40Z FBI-HI

RECORDING T-SCIF@FBI-HI@21.3089N157.8565W 2026-03-22 09:40Z

PRESENT: SPECIAL AGENT BURROUGHS (ASAC-NS/I, HONOLULU), GOVERNOR-HI, SPECIAL AGENT THOMAS (DRIVER)

AGENT BURROUGHS: Thank you for meeting with me, Governor.

GOVERNOR: My detail didn't give me much choice.

AGENT BURROUGHS: We need to do this as quickly as possible. With your permission, we'll relocate to Birkhimer while I brief you. I hope I didn't disturb your sleep.

GOVERNOR: Go ahead. I'm sure you have your reasons. I was just going to bed when we got the notification about the COOP exercise. I figured I should keep an eye on things. Not that I couldn't use some sleep after all the planning and response for this storm.

AGENT BURROUGHS: Yes, Governor. I should warn you that, although this vehicle is designated as a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility, a secure audio recording is being made in order to certify your understanding and acceptance of SCI responsibility for the information that I'm about to share with you.

GOVERNOR: So that business about a live drill was just cover?

AGENT BURROUGHS: We need to get through this before I can answer that question, sir. May I have your phone, pager, any other electronic devices?

GOVERNOR: Uh, okay.

[RUSTLING SOUNDS, ENDING WITH A DISTINCT "CLICK"]

AGENT BURROUGHS: Thank you. Under authority delegated by the Director of National Intelligence, I am executing your verbal indoctrination into Sensitive Compartmented Information under codeword DOWNWIND. Information under this codeword is shared on a strict operational need-to-know basis. Unauthorized disclosure of this information is a violation of federal law, including but not limited to 18 U. S. C. sections 793 and 798. Your agreement to non-disclosure of this information is legally binding for life and not connected to your office. Do you understand these restrictions?

GOVERNOR: Shit. Yes, I do.

AGENT BURROUGHS: Do you agree not to disclose this information outside of a designated facility or to any person other than as authorized?

GOVERNOR: Yes.

AGENT BURROUGHS: Thank you, sir. This is a written briefing packet to provide you with essential information. When you've finished with it, I'll answer any questions I can. Further information will be available at Birkhimer, once we've certified a command center as a SCIF.

GOVERNOR: Oh. Thank you.

[APPROXIMATELY TEN MINUTES WITH NO SOUNDS EXCEPT BACKGROUND BREATHING, ROAD NOISE, AND TURNING PAGES. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE PAGE TURNING IS LOUDER AND DEEPER, INDICATING A LARGER NUMBER OF PAGES BEING MOVED IN ONE GO.]

GOVERNOR: This isn't a drill?

AGENT BURROUGHS: No, Governor. This is very real.

GOVERNOR: Those photographs?

AGENT BURROUGHS: Stills from verified videos. That packet doesn't include the most graphic material we have.

AGENT THOMAS [VIA INTERCOM]: We're arriving, sir.

AGENT BURROUGHS: We can talk more once we're inside, sir. We're in a relatively positive situation here, sir, compared to the Continental United States. Hopefully a few hours of extra warning will make a difference.

GOVERNOR: Hang on a second, that wasn't the most graphic? Fuck. Why is this happening?

AGENT BURROUGHS: We don't know, sir. Believe that there are people working on that, but initial assumptions that this is the result of one or more human actors are now considered low probability.

GOVERNOR: No shit.

AGENT BURROUGHS: Indoctrination complete and recording terminated 0953 Zulu.

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:41Z USSS

xUSSS-BOBCAT-ADVANCE-LEAD@SITE-R 2026-03-22 09:41Z

o1USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT

o2USSS-BOBCAT-DETAIL@39.7346N77.4304W

o3USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT

xC: Welcome to Site R, Mister Vice President.

xB: [DISTRAUGHT] Where are they taking the children?

xC: A suite has been prepared for you and the children in Building A, ma'am.

xB: What is going on?

xC: That's need-to-know, ma'am. But your detail advised that you'd appreciate knowing where the Vice President was going to be.

xB: Of course. But [pause] my children.

o3: We'll take you to them in a moment, ma'am.

x: The advance team will handle that. All arriving agents need to go to Building C for a briefing, including your post detail. We're taking over protective duties for now.

o2: Shifting now.

o1: Given what happened outside, I don't think we should be relaxing our stance.

x: We're treating that as a misunderstanding. You're inside the perimeter now. Just no one wander off on their own. ID verification is required if anyone's been out of visual contact.

o3: Isn't there surveillance here?

xC: Not everywhere. And the troops here would rather not have to backtrack and search for people if they've been reported out of contact.

xB: Fine, fine. Now can I please see my children?

x: Of course, ma'am. Your new detail is here, and we've asked someone from the medical team to check on you.

xC: Mister Vice President, we need to get you into a briefing. Building B is just this way.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:41Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 09:41Z

PRESENT: CMC, CNO, VCSO, VCNGB, VCSA, DCIA, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

DCIA: Okay, Brian. Time to brief the VP.

JENKINS: Yes, sir. Sir, I really need to get Lorrie on the line. There's so much data here, and they're keeping the model updated, but the model just gives me numbers. The communications desk here says they can't even tell if there's a memo in the queue for us. Unless someone upgraded her privileges a few steps, Lorrie can't send anything higher than immediate, and the colonel implied that that isn't so immediate right now.

DCIA: I'm sorry, son, other things came up. I haven't had a chance to talk to the admiral about it yet. We'll get on it right after this briefing.

JENKINS: Yes, sir. I've got a presentation ready.

DCIA: Remember, you're not dealing with anyone who's got a lot of military or intelligence experience. He's just a heartbeat away from the presidency.

JENKINS: Yes, sir.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:44Z USMS

RECORDING USMS-SCOTUS-RELOC-B-COMMAND@38.7161N77.1843W 2026-03-22 09:44Z

PRESENT: RELOC-B-COMMAND, RELOC-B-1-LEAD, RELOC-B-2-LEAD, PILOT-1, PILOT-2, SCOTUS-SAJ, SCOTUS-2AJ, SCOTUS-5AJ, SCOTUS-7AJ

RELOC-B-COMMAND: Okay, this isn't how we planned it, but we need to get you split up and somewhere safe. We've got suitable safe houses in range, but just barely. Two of you to a helicopter, and we should be able to get you to locations in the mountains in time.

SCOTUS-SAJ: In time for what?

RELOC-B-1-LEAD: We've got briefing packets for you, to be opened on arrival. I can't say what's in them. We're supposed to read them too, but only then. All we know right now is that we need to not be in the open, or in an urban area by 07:00 local mean time.

SCOTUS-SAJ: And how come you've got Sam coming with me? I thought we were supposed to distribute seniority?

RELOC-B-COMMAND: We've had some guidance that we should minimize interpersonal friction, keep people who get along better.

SCOTUS-2AJ: Well, you can't say the assignment doesn't make sense in those terms, Clarence.

SCOTUS-7AJ: Speak for yourselves.

RELOC-B-COMMAND: Anyway, that's your briefing. Get aboard and get going!

PILOT-1: Justices, this way.

PILOT-2: And you two are with me, sir, ma'am.

SCOTUS-7AJ: I hope this safe house has cable.

SCOTUS-5AJ: I hope that cable still exists.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:45Z SITE R

RECORDING KITCHEN@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 09:45Z

PRESENT: SHANAE BROOKS (CONTRACTOR), CODY WELLS (CONTRACTOR)

BROOKS: What time do you call this to show up?

WELLS: Sorry. I'm kinda off my usual rhythm, what with being called in in the middle of the night.

BROOKS: Sorry don't make no biscuits. You think one of these government emergencies is gonna mean people don't want breakfast? You think having God knows how many extra people in here means we need less food?

WELLS: No, I guess not. Sorry, Shanae. Where do you want me?

BROOKS: Ovens are full and need dealing with just before we serve. I've just about got everything ready for the hash, but we need eggs and we need gravy.

[LOUD FRYING SOUND BEGINS]

BROOKS: Why all those extra folks don't start until after we get the breakfast service going, I don't know.

* * * * *

PHONE-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:46Z FBI

xSPECIAL AGENT CAUGHLIN (ASAC-NS/I, SALT LAKE CITY)@FBI-SLC-UT 2026-03-22 09:46Z

oAGENT COX (UHP)@KEARNS

x: Caughlin, FBI. I understand you're coordinating the governor's detail overnight?

o: Yes, ma'am. How can we help the FBI?

x: Wake your principal. I'm on my way with a critical briefing, but it needs to be done as quietly as possible.

o: It would help if we had more information than that.

x: Tough. It's need-to-know. Just have your officers wake the governor and tell him that someone from the FBI is on their way for a critical national security briefing. Then have him meet me outside.

o: Outside?

x: You don't have the facilities for this briefing. My car does.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:49Z SITE R

RECORDING CONF-B3@SITE-R 2026-03-22 09:49Z

PRESENT: VPOTUS, DCIA, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), INTEL OFFICER, USSS VP DETAIL x3

DCIA: And that covers the essentials, Mister Vice President. There's a full briefing packet, but I'm afraid we don't have the time to cover every detail. Mr. Jenkins here will be at your disposal on request. He has the most complete knowledge available on Downwind.

VPOTUS: Now hang on just a minute. Those videos, those are verified?

DCIA: By every method at our disposal, sir.

VPOTUS: And these UBEs, they can be anything?

JENKINS: They can look like anything, yes, sir. But as far as we know they're always visible, they can't move through solid objects, and they can be killed. All verified attacks have used gross physical violence.

VPOTUS: And we're not expecting them until sometime before seven a. m., but they might already be popping up?

JENKINS: Either possibility is consistent with the data, sir, but early manifestations do not provide a better model. It's just a possibility we can't ignore.

INTEL OFFICER: Now, Mister Vice President, we'd like to get you into the command center. Relocations are going smoothly so far, but you should be kept up to speed.

VPOTUS: Just. Just give me a minute. Alone.

INTEL OFFICER: Ah—

VPOTUS: Not alone alone, I know. Just leave my detail. And does that phone work?

INTEL OFFICER: High side connections only, sir. Just let the operator know who you want.

VPOTUS: How's my wife?

USSS: Resting in the VIP suite, sir. The doctor's seen her, and the Pro Tem is with her.

VPOTUS: Thank you. Give me the room, please.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 09:51Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 09:51Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); JOANN WONG (NGA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

RECORDING: [LOW QUALITY] ALAR-HOO ACKBAR. [DIFFERENT VOICE] We've lost the signal on 141. [DIFFERENT VOICE] Link 16—

RIVERA: [OVER RECORDING] What else can go wrong?

MALCOLMSON: Shush. Nearly done.

RECORDING: [LOW QUALITY] —urgent setback, we might have to scram. Backup generators are being brought online. [DIFFERENT VOICE] Test the diesel, dammit! I ordered all chem— [DIFFERENT VOICE] Data link to the Gideon Welles is down.

RIVERA: And those were military ships. In the middle of nowhere.

WONG: I'd call the Gulf of Oman the middle of nowhere, yeah.

RIVERA: And they got a kraken, a stereotypical Arab insurgent—

MALCOLMSON: When they were deployed against Iran, yes.

RIVERA: —a non-material Muslim stereotype that drove a skipper briefly insane before cutting off all signals from the ship, and a mischievous something that rearranged manuals, screwed with munitions, and messed with chemicals.

MALCOLMSON: That's about the size of it, yes.

RIVERA: A kraken.

MALCOLMSON: Technically we can't be sure that that's what he was say—

RIVERA: There's a pattern to that, I can almost taste it, but we'll have to come back to that. The attacks in the model were in cities, so we're taking all the national leadership out of cities.

MCAULEY: Right.

RIVERA: And instead we're putting them in various boxes. In the middle of nowhere.

WONG: Well, not as isolated as the Gulf of Oman, but—

RIVERA: But the point is they're isolated, to be away from where the UBEs appear. Javid! Get me the watch supervisor in the ops center.

FARHANG: All lines are busy.

RIVERA: Internally? What about Warrenton? The alternate ops center should have been running for a while now.

FARHANG: We got a check-in from them, yeah. But the lines are all either busy or down.

MALCOLMSON: Down? Lines between here and Warrenton are down?

FARHANG: Satellite is up, but shows ninety-five percent congestion, max priority only.

RIVERA: This is max priority! Leia, who's in the sit room?

CPO FOSTER: We're running a skeleton crew.

RIVERA: Dammit, I need to speak to someone. NMCC, A-NMCC, Nightwatch, NCR JOC. Secret Service, PID or JOC is fine. Fuck it, get me the President!

FARHANG: I'm trying. No one's answering. Except a watch officer on Air Force One, who's asking for an authentication code.

RIVERA: Well, you've got one.

FARHANG: I'm not on the list, apparently.

MALCOLMSON: You can generate a cable, can't you?

RIVERA: Only at immediate precedence, and the network's probably full of flash traffic. That's not good enough, but I'll do it. Dammit, doesn't the Secret Service have a tip line?

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:52Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 09:52Z

PRESENT: VCSO, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

COMMS OFFICER: Mr. Jenkins, your link request has been approved. There's just a bit of a problem.

JENKINS: What's that?

COMMS OFFICER: All hard lines to Langley are busy or have line errors. Leaving it to standard JWICS routing gets no response. And satellite time is at a premium. I might be able to get you a short call sometime in the next ten, maybe twenty minutes.

JENKINS: Line errors? That's unusual.

COMMS OFFICER: With a skeleton crew at the other end, a failure on the line-terminating equipment might not get fixed quickly. It only takes a speck of dust.

JENKINS: Okay. But I've got to admit, I don't have a good feeling about this.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 09:52Z USCP

RECORDING USCP-BUS-02@38.9642N77.1762W 2026-03-22 09:52Z

PRESENT: USCP-OFF-2, HOUSE-CA42, HOUSE-CA51, HOUSE-FL19, HOUSE-MN04, HOUSE-MN05, HOUSE-NY14, HOUSE-NY15, HOUSE-UT01, HOUSE-WI01, SENATE-AL-3, SENATE-GA-2, SENATE-MO-1, SENATE-OK-2, USA-SGT, USA-CPL-1, USA-CPL-2

USCP-OFF-2: Okay, some housekeeping. The corporal will be passing around a box. I want all of you to turn off all personal or non-secure electronic devices and place them in the box. Hold on to of your emergency pagers. If you have any other secure government-issued electronic devices, put them in the corporal's bag and I will review them, and may return them. In any case, you are not to communicate with anyone until we reach our destination, and then all your communications will be vetted.

SENATE-MO-1: Are we going to get back to DC today? We've got a session coming up, an important one.

HOUSE-MN05: Is this really the time for partisan considerations?

SENATE-MO-1: Now see here, young lady—

HOUSE-MN05: I'm only three years younger than you, Josh.

SENATE-MO-1: I think that ensuring that we have a full set of confirmed appointees to the Cabinet is particularly important if we're going to be having whatever sort of crisis this is.

HOUSE-NY14: And not to miss any opportunity to declare your loyalty.

SENATE-MO-1: I don't have to stand for this sort of—

SENATE-OK-2: Let it go. We'll deal with it when this is over, even if it means waiting.

SENATE-MO-1: But it's your confirm—

SENATE-OK-2: Let it go.

USCP-OFF-2: Thank you. There's another bus behind us, mostly senators, who should catch up soon, then we'll pick up the pace. We're picking up an escort as well, a gunship from the route-clearing operation anytime now. Around Frederick, we'll get some ground cover. We'll have to slow down again then.

HOUSE-UT01: Why the flip do we need an armed escort?

USCP-OFF-2: That's need-to-know, and apparently I don't. I'm told that decisions are being made about your briefings, and those will happen at our destination. We just know that we need to be ready for unspecified, serious, non-conventional physical threats that might come from any direction and could look like anything.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

HOUSE-UT01: Oh.

* * * * *

PHONE-COMMS 2026-03-22 09:53Z WHCA-SECURE

xVPOTUS@SITE-R 2026-03-22 09:53Z

oSECSTATE@ANGEL

VPOTUS: They want me in the command center, Marco. Y ou have to tell them that I can't give any orders.

SECSTATE: Doesn't matter. That's where you find out what's going on. If the worst happens, they won't have to get you caught up.

VPOTUS: I guess. Is this call secure at your end?

SECSTATE: Of course.

VPOTUS: How's he taking it?

SECSTATE: Well, the good news is that he isn't panicking. The bad news is that I'm not sure whether that's because he's taking it in stride, or he just doesn't get it. How are you taking it?

VPOTUS: They've shown me everything. Well, that's what they say. The videos… the… the thing in Manchester, that could shoot spines. That's going to haunt me. But not as much as the pictures of the children.

SECSTATE: How's your family?

VPOTUS: Resting in quarters in Building A. With a little chemical assistance, I think, but Chuck's over there as well, he said he'd keep an eye on them. They don't try to put him in a control room, you'll notice. Yours?

SECSTATE: I'm trying not to think about it.

VPOTUS: Oh, hell, I'm sorry. I forgot it was just… shit.

SECSTATE: Don't worry about it.

VPOTUS: At least you've got a fighter escort. A full squadron, I heard.

SECSTATE: I saw those videos, too. If being in the air doesn't make us safe, no escort will.

VPOTUS: And everyone's keeping calm up there?

SECSTATE: I wouldn't say that.

[Screaming audible in background]

SECSTATE: See? Anyway, we had a bit of turbulence a few minutes ago, but otherwise things seem okay.

[Slightly louder screaming in background]

VPOTUS: More turbulence?

SECSTATE: A bit. I think I'm going to have to call you back.

VPOTUS: Why?

SECSTATE: A drawer just opened by itself. And I think a snake is coming out of it.

VPOTUS: What?

SECSTATE: I'll call you back.