Margins: Fall of Empire Pt. 06

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 6, things go from bad to worse, but more understanding is achieved.

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.

The End...

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 11:52Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 11:52Z

PRESENT: POTUS, CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CMC, VCSO, CDR-SITE-R, HEAD OF SECURITY, DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Mister President, we're moving you.

POTUS: Wh—

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: This location is about to be compromised.

NO LONGER PRESENT: POTUS, USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT

HEAD OF SECURITY: Everybody! We need to move in an orderly manner to an alternate location. Colonel, you and the Chiefs first, thank you.

NO LONGER PRESENT: CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CMC, VCSO, CDR-SITE-R

HEAD OF SECURITY: Current watchstanders, I need you to remain at your stations. I'm sorry, Admiral, but that includes you.

BATTLE DIRECTOR: That's fine, Major.

HEAD OF SECURITY: Deputies and assistants next, please, in an orderly manner. Follow security, we're moving you to an alternate location.

[SHUFFLING SOUNDS, MUTTERING: 28 SECONDS]

NO LONGER PRESENT: SOME ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

HEAD OF SECURITY: Now if everyone except watchstanders and the Battle Director would follow them, please.

NO-ID-1: What the fuck is that?

BATTLE DIRECTOR: If everyone could stay away from the exit that we aren't using. Any watchstanders on that side of the room, please relocate to an empty desk on this side.

NO-ID-2: There's a shadow climbing up the fucking wall!

HEAD OF SECURITY: Please stay calm. That shadow can't hurt you unless you get close to it.

NO-ID-2: Fuck that, I'm getting out of—

[GUN COCKING]

HEAD OF SECURITY: Stay calm, and stay in line.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 11:53Z SITE R

RECORDING VIP-A@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 11:53Z

PRESENT: FIRST LADY, PRO TEM, USSS-BLACKSTONE-SHIFT, USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT, USCP-PROTEM-SHIFT

PRO TEM: How are the kids?

FIRST LADY: Asleep, thank goodness. Your family?

PRO TEM: No contact. Barbara and I said our goodbyes. We've done it, oh, a whole bunch of times now. We've had a good run. I worry more about the kids, and the grandkids.

FIRST LADY: [THINLY PLAYFUL] And the great-grandkids?

PRO TEM: Yeah, them too. I guess maybe Iowa's doing something like we've done, so maybe Pat has a chance. But it doesn't do us no good to—

[DOOR CLICKS, HEAVY FOOTSTEPS]

NOW PRESENT: USSS-BLACKSTONE-2, USSS-BLACKSTONE-3, USSS-STATESMAN-2, USSS-STATESMAN-3, USSS-STATESMAN-4, USSS-STATESMAN-5, USCP-PROTEM-2, USCP-PROTEM-3

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: Sir, ma'am. There's a possible situation. We're stepping up security.

USCP-PROTEM-SHIFT: We'd like to move you to a location with more than one exit, Senator.

PRO TEM: See, we've got people making darn sure we're safe. God willing, we'll find a way through this.

FIRST LADY: [TEARFUL] Thanks, Chuck. I'll [PAUSE] I'll try to keep that in mind.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 11:54Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 11:54Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

MALCOLMSON: Done! Thank you, I just needed a couple of minutes of peace and quiet. Results should be less than a minute.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

MALCOLMSON: Why are you staring at me? And what happened with the suit things?

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

MALCOLMSON: [IRRITATED] What?

WHITE: They stopped, Carol.

MALCOLMSON: That's good. When?

WHITE: When you had your little explosion.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIET] What?

RIVERA: When you [PAUSE] yelled, saying that you weren't going to let them get in your way. The one who was punching the door hit the wall across from it. Pretty hard. It hasn't gotten up.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIET] Oh.

MCAULEY: The other one was standing slightly to one side. It got thrown to the end of the hall. It's spent the last couple of minutes trying to stand up. It's, um, coming back.

RIVERA: Context-appropriate fears. Pop culture manifestations. These things are coming from our minds. And maybe our minds can affect them in other ways. Everyone, clear your mind and think about keeping it away.

[PING]

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 11:55Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 11:55Z

PRESENT: HEAD OF SECURITY, SA-DCIA, BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, HANDFUL OF MILITARY STAFF

SA-DCIA: Come on, Brian. Time for us to go.

JENKINS: No. I'll wait. Lorrie, or rather this Carol, might pick up my connection.

SA-DCIA: You don't know that something like this hasn't happened there. Or worse.

JENKINS: Files are still being updated. Maybe it's people at Warrenton, but I don't think so.

HEAD OF SECURITY: You can't do anyone any good if that shadow thing gets you, son.

JENKINS: I'll leave when you pull these people out. Or when the shadow threatens to block the aisle. Sandra, get someone to set up the connection again and let me know, and I'll be right there.

HEAD OF SECURITY: Okay. I'm leaving a couple of guards in the doorway. They'll announce when it's time to move, but they'll let you through anytime.

SA-DCIA: Don't wait too long, Brian.

JENKINS: I'll keep my eyes open. Stay safe.

NO LONGER PRESENT: HEAD OF SECURITY, SA-DCIA

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 11:55Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 11:55Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

HEBERT: You don't seem to be slowing it down.

MCAULEY: Come on. Keep thinking positive.

PHELAN: I don't think those of us who aren't in the room can make a difference.

HEBERT: It's back at the door.

[METALLIC TEARING]

RIVERA: Oh, shit. It's not everyone. The rest of us give the things their form, their behavior. But some people do more. Carol, you can do more.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIET] What?

[METALLIC TEARING]

[METALLIC CRUNCH]

RIVERA: When you, just you, demanded peace and quiet, that you weren't going to let them get in your way, they were thrown back.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIET] What?

RIVERA: It's not even just the things out there. I couldn't speak above a whisper until you said you were done.

MCAULEY: Me either.

[LOUD CRASH]

FARHANG: It's at the inner door.

RIVERA: When you snapped, you imposed your will on the things and on us.

[METALLIC CRUNCH]

RIVERA: When you wanted to get through the fireproof panels around the cable chase, you did it in record time with a fire extinguisher.

[CRASH, METAL STRAINING]

RIVERA: You had dozens of cables to try to find the security feeds, you got it what, first try? You brushed it off, saying you had a gift.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIET] I'm just determined.

[CRASH, METAL STRAINING]

RIVERA: You do have a gift. Whatever makes it possible for these things to appear, you interact with it differently. You, of all of us here just you, can impose your will on reality.

MALCOLMSON: [QUIETER] I'm just smart.

[CRASH, METAL GROANING]

RIVERA: Look at the door, Carol. Look at the door and let your feelings out. Tell that thing what you want it to do.

[CRASH, METAL CREAKING]

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

[CRASH, METAL TEARING]

[SILENCE: 1 SECOND]

MALCOLMSON: [SHOUTING] Go away!

[THUMP]

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 11:58Z HEMA

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SEOC-HI, BATTERY BIRKHIMER 2026-03-22 11:58Z

PRESENT: GOVERNOR-HI, SPECIAL AGENT BURROUGHS (ASAC-NS/I, HONOLULU), TAG-HI, FEMA-FCO, COMMS DESK, HEMA LIAISON, HDLE LIAISON, HDOT LIAISON, POLICE LIAISON, ONHR LIAISON, OHA LIAISON, DOH LIAISON

HEMA LIAISON: We're starting to see movement into the streets. Not much, which is no surprise given the weather. Basically none on Oahu, and I don't know why. We're only ten minutes behind Hawaii Island in terms of onset, and people aren't noticeably less excitable here.

GOVERNOR: Be grateful for small favors.

OHA LIAISON: Governor! I've heard back from the team at Waiāhole. The, ah, entity there has agreed to consider allowing you and your family into the space it protects, and facilitate communication. It's, um, not entirely clear what it means by family.

GOVERNOR: What do you mean?

OHA LIAISON: Well, our team asked about having some staff, some of the people in this room with you. It indicated that it had already answered that question. It's also not one hundred percent clear what facilitating communication will involve. But I think it's worth a try, sir.

HEMA LIAISON: If we head out now we should be able to get there by ground transport.

HDLE LIAISON: The Sheriff Division would prefer the Governor travel by helicopter. The Guard has a few nearby.

GOVERNOR: Of course they do, we're next door to a base!

HEMA LIAISON: A low-profile ground transport is less likely to increase public panic. And some of the manifestations that have been reported would have no trouble hitting a low-altitude helicopter.

HDLE LIAISON: So we go high altitude.

TAG-HI: We don't go at all. Have you ever tried to fly a helicopter in this weather?

HEMA LIAISON: The route to Waiahole is currently passable to high-clearance four-by-fours. I can't recommend a Suburban, there's too much water to get through. We can take the H-3, but it might get a little dicey on Kamehameha Highway.

TAG-HI: We've got some trucks that will handle that, no problem.

BURROUGHS: Governor, there might be another possibility. There's scattered reports, no analysis on them yet, of areas that seem to repel these manifestations. If we can locate one here on Oahu, that won't leave us subject to the whims of these so-called Akua.

GOVERNOR: Have we located one, Agent Burroughs?

BURROUGHS: No, sir, but I'm sure they will become evident once there are more manifestations.

GOVERNOR: And our various agencies and police departments will no doubt take note of them, and we can encourage people to withdraw to them. Meanwhile, it seems to me that it's only a matter of time before we're attacked. Thank goodness this facility is so small and not in the middle of a residential area. No, figure out among yourselves how we're traveling, but we're going to Waiahole. If our radios don't work, we can set up a command post just outside, so we can retreat as needed.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 11:59Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 11:59Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

MCAULEY: Another one showed up. It's sort of [PAUSE] prowling at the end of the hallway. It keeps starting to move toward us and stopping.

MALCOLMSON: I have no idea what I'm doing, but I can sort of feel it. It's [PAUSE] strange. Does anyone have any crisps? I mean chips.

RIVERA: Whatever it is, keep doing it.

MALCOLMSON: And what happens when I need to sleep?

RIVERA: You have some sort of ability. Maybe you always had it, and it just couldn't do anything until whatever this is happened. Those things represent a distortion of reality based on human consciousness, I'm sure of it. You can just distort reality in the way you want to. And I can't believe it's only you.

QAYUM: It's not.

MALCOLMSON: What?

QAYUM: I mean, it might be only you there, in that vault, but it's not only you anywhere.

PHELAN: We've got some scattered reports from state authorities. There's places that the manifestations can't enter. A lot of them are places of worship, but there's also quite a few universities. Some other research institutions, and some are just, well, random. Frankly, I think we need to review some reports from Europe as well. This might change the interpretation.

RIVERA: If one in ten thousand, one in a hundred thousand people can do what you're doing, Carol, humanity can survive this as something more than scattered, hunted remnants. Governments might collapse, but civilization doesn't have to. So I need you to figure out how to describe what you're doing.

MALCOLMSON: I just want them to go away. And I keep that in mind. I don't know what will happen if I get distracted.

ALAGH: At the risk of distracting you, Carol, maybe you should look at the results of that script. It might help shed some light on things.

* * * * *

Incident Report 2026-03-22 12:00Z WTC

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

DACP IMMEDIATE INCIDENT REPORT - WARRENTON TRAINING CENTER

REPORTED BY: OFFICER BARRY PHIPPS

TRANSCRIBED BY: DISPATCHER SHONA FRANKLIN

DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: 03/22/2026 07:52 EDT

INCIDENT CATEGORY: UNCATEGORIZED

LOCATION: WTC STATION B, NW GATE

NARRATIVE:

1. At 7:52 a. m., an unmarked black sedan with no front plate and a heavily tinted windshield approached the gate turning left off Bear Wallow Road onto Range Road.

2. Due to increased security posture, officers attempted to flag the vehicle down before it reached the official checkpoint.

3. There was no response from the driver, and the vehicle accelerated toward the barrier.

4. Officers gave a final verbal warning and opened fire on the vehicle, at which point the vehicle turned towards the larger group of officers, briefly raced its engine, and charged at the officers.

5. Shots fired through the windshield or windows of the vehicle appeared to have no effect, so the senior officer on the scene ordered focused fire on the vehicle's engine compartment.

6. Two officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries before the vehicle came to a halt. At that time, the engine stopped. The noise it made doing so was unusual, sounding somewhat like a human groan.

7. No driver or other occupant of the vehicle could be found. Officers relocated it to the nearby parking area. It was noted at this time that the vehicle had no rear plate.

FORM ENTERED INTO SITE RECORDS: 2026-03-22 12:00Z

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:01Z DUGWAY

RECORDING COMMAND CENTER@DUGWAY PROVING GROUND/SALT BOX 2026-03-22 12:01Z

PRESENT: GOVERNOR-UT, BATTLE CAPTAIN, SPECIAL AGENT CAUGHLIN (FBI ASAC-NS/I, SALT LAKE CITY), COMMS WATCH, DEM EOC LIAISON, POLICE LIAISON, TAG-UT, DUGWAY-CO, ASSORTED OTHER MILITARY PERSONNEL

GOVERNOR: Yes, President Oaks, I understand that.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

GOVERNOR: Well I just think that perhaps the best expression of the Gospel in a situation like this is to prot—

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

GOVERNOR: No, I don't think this is the Tribulation, President Oaks. I make time for study, and the Tribulation isn't supposed to involve monsters.

DEM EOC LIAISON: Governor, the area around the Provo City Center Temple is getting overcrowded. We're talking about crowd crush injuries. We're setting up a perimeter around it, but with these monsters I don't see how we can keep people out without doing more damage.

GOVERNOR: [UNDERTONE] Hang on. [NORMAL VOICE] President Oaks, I'm glad we can agree on that. But even if it isn't the Tribulation, these are exceptional circumstances, and—

POLICE LIAISON: Three more Temples have been identified with protective zones.

GOVERNOR: Actually, President Oaks, given the circumstances I think it would be better if you addressed me as Governor. [PAUSE] Because I'm not just a member of the Church. I'm the head of the civilian executive in this state. I look to you as prophet, seer and revelator, but you are also a citizen of this state. I'm a member and a priesthood holder, but I have a duty to everyone in Utah.

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

GOVERNOR: I'll gladly stand before a membership council when this is over, if there's even a stake presidency to do it. Do you have any idea—

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

GOVERNOR: I'm well aware that I'm welcome in any Temple, President Oaks. This isn't about me, it's about the people—

[SILENCE: 1 SECOND]

GOVERNOR: And I'm asking you, not as the President of my church, but as the leader of the largest religious organization in this state, to offer sanctuary. Find out which Temples are safe, and tell them to open their doors. We can re-dedicate the dang things afterward.

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

GOVERNOR: Yes, keep them out of the Celestial Rooms by all means. I'm sure there are enough worthy members to fill them. My people will be in touch to coordinate lists.

[CLICK]

GOVERNOR: I just wish that there were more safe havens in Salt Lake City.

POLICE LIAISON: About that, Governor. We've identified more exclusion zones. There's one at a mosque in West Valley City. Several buildings at BYU, looks like science departments. And there's one that covers several city blocks that seems to be centered on the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple.

GOVERNOR: Start compiling lists and directing people. Wait a second, isn't that Buddhist place near Temple Square? Behind the Convention Center?

POLICE LIAISON: Yes, sir. It looks like the center is within the protected zone.

GOVERNOR: Get someone to Temple Square and get people moving in that direction! And get the Convention Center open!

POLICE LIAISON: Yes, sir.

GOVERNOR: [UNDERTONE] Buddhists protecting people from a marauding Moroni statue. What the heck is going on?

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 12:03Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 11:59Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

MALCOLMSON: You know, things are starting to make sense.

MCAULEY: Hey, it's mov— and it got pushed back again.

MALCOLMSON: I know. I noticed my [PAUSE] whatever it is slipping. Look, I think I need to run all of this again with those exclusion events included. Have they all been coded?

QAYUM: All? We're still finding new ones.

HEBERT: Oh yeah, we've got another batch to send you. By the way, no sign of anything here at Reston. I could put all these coded and summarized reports into our LLM—

MALCOLMSON: [SNORT]

HEBERT: We don't use it to filter, you know that. But we have one that does a good job of summarizing information.

MALCOLMSON: We don't need a summary. We need data. We nee— oh, balls.

RIVERA: What is it?

MALCOLMSON: Leia! Get ready for another virtual hard line!

MCAULEY: Why?

MALCOLMSON: [GROWING DISTANT] Brian's been trying to connect for—

[DOOR CLICKS]

* * * * *

TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 12:04Z DACP

xDACP-WTC-B-PATROL-6-6@38.7370N77.8291W 2026-03-22 12:04Z

o1DACP-WTC-B-DISPATCH

o2DACP-WTC-B-PATROL-6-2@38.7370N77.8291W

o3DACP-WTC-B-PATROL-5-6@38.7379N77.8272W

x: Dispatch, six six. Do we have any perimeter breaches?

o1: Negative, six six.

x: We've got what looks like a bear rooting around at the edge of the woods.

o1: Approach with caution, six six. But don't sneak up on it.

x: Ah, how do I do both of those at once, Dispatch?

o1: Try not to scare it, just let it know you're there.

o2: Here, Bob.

x: An empty can? Well, here goes nothing. [METALLIC CLATTERING] [ANIMAL GRUNT]

o2: Yeah, it's looking up, and oh— [SCREAM]

x: [GUNFIRE] Six six requesting backup! It's not a bear! [ROARING] [GUNFIRE]

o1: Unit Five, move to assist Unit Six.

o3: Moving. Situation?

o1: Unidentified non-human assailant.

x: [GUNFIRE] It's fast! [GUNFIRE] And those claws. [GUNFIRE] Leading it toward zone five. [GUNFIRE]

o1: Directing more units to your position.

x: [GUNFIRE] I'm barely slowing it down. [GUNFIRE] [ROAR] I can't move quick— [SCREAM]

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:05Z SITE R

RECORDING CONFERENCE B@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:05Z

PRESENT: POTUS, CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CMC, CNO, VCSA, VCSO, DNI, DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

DNI: Mister President, we need to update you on the overall situation. Information about relocations has become fragmented. Information from High Point is unclear, but it seems to be in the process of being overrun. Obviously the situation inside this mountain isn't good either.

CJCS: It's my recommendation that we relocate the President and critical advisors, as well as battle staff, to the E-4B that should still be on the ground at Harrisburg.

DCIA: I'm concerned about this plan, Mister President. We saw what happened on Air Force One. Our models now suggest that population density, especially conscious population, is the determining factor in manifestations. Models are still being refined, it looks like my people are doing some work on a new structure for the model, but my own analysis of the available information would be that awareness of the situation also increases the problem.

DNI: There's something to that, sir. From what information about relocation we do have, people have been safest farthest from population centers, in smaller groups, and if they haven't been briefed yet.

POTUS: How small a group is safe if they do know?

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

DCIA: We can't estimate that with any confidence, sir. There's clearly a strong element of chance involved. But the legislative relocation group at Camp David is still in communication and hasn't reported any incidents. The Members of Congress, their protective detail and the base commander have all been fairly thoroughly briefed, but the rest of the personnel at the base haven't. That's maybe fifteen people who've been briefed, and been exposed to the manifestations, with about a hundred people who've just been briefed on the need for maximum security and to expect the unexpected.

POTUS: So if I have a team like that—

DNI: It's also possible that there's something else protecting them. It would be helpful if we had more analysis of this, but my staff has been reviewing the reports that the Downwind Task Force is working on, and there are some scattered places that seem to be safe even though they are surrounded by large populations and active manifestations.

CJCS: That's the first I'm hearing about this.

DNI: It's new information, General.

POTUS: So we split into small groups and take a course that avoids built-up areas, or passes them at high altitude. Or both. And get to one of these safe havens.

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: If we had the resources under our control, we would insist on this plan, at least for the President. If High Point is down, we'll do the same with the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

VCSA: Any such plan means crossing the caverns. That's looking like a risky proposition. Those bat things seem to be multiplying.

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: And outside the mountain?

VCSA: Last report I saw, things out there are completely uneventful. The base commander has actually pulled some of the security personnel inside. Without letting them all know why.

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Air assets?

DNI: A handful of Black Hawks and civilian S-70s. One Chinook. One DAP gunship.

POTUS: Can we get more? And what about long-range transport?

VCSA: If they're fully fueled, those helicopters can take us a few hundred miles, sir. They can't take everyone in the mountain, but a core operational staff is certainly possible.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 12:07Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 12:07Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

CPO FOSTER: Okay, bringing the new link online.

o10.51.3.87:1@JWICS

NOW PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA)

MALCOLMSON: Sorry about the delay connecting you, Brian. We had a bit of a problem.

JENKINS: If it's anything like what's happening here, then I understand. Look, I don't have long. There's this shadow coming across the room. It eats people.

[SILENCE: 1 SECOND]

MCAULEY: I'm taking notes.

JENKINS: As far as I can tell it started off in a natural shadow, couldn't tell it from anything normal, except nothing casts it. Then it started spreading. It's not that quick, but if someone gets near it, it shoots out to catch them. They're drawn into it slowly, body parts just disappearing.

PHELAN: We've really gotta lose the B from our abbreviation.

JENKINS: I've got a few minutes at least, before my route out of the room is blocked. Update me, then I'll get word to the people who need to know.

MALCOLMSON: We're still not sure of all the details, but it seems that the manifestations are derived from psychological states, possibly collectively. It's novel, so I don't know if it's reliable, but I've been analyzing all the reports based on the principle of semantic frames, and—

RIVERA: Let's skip the methodology. Just tell me if I get anything wrong in the summary. Brian, these things come from us, in a sense, but an unknown proportion of people have an ability to repel them. It doesn't happen automatically, and we're having trouble describing how to do it. But having a bunch of people in one place who all know what's happening and worrying about it isn't helping.

JENKINS: Go on.

RIVERA: Mass manifestations are still getting earlier, much earlier. I assume people who are up late are more aware of what's happening, so generating more fear. Maybe people are even being woken up by the news…

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:08Z SITE R

RECORDING TERTIARY COMMS CENTER@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:08Z

PRESENT: CDR-SITE-R, HEAD OF SECURITY, DEPUTY BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

CDR-SITE-R: They're going to want to abandon the mountain. That means crossing the caverns. How hard is that going to be?

HEAD OF SECURITY: Hard. I've pulled everyone back into Buildings A and B, or it would be a bloodbath out there. They're making attempts to penetrate some of the entrances, but they don't seem to have the strength to force the doors. Camera feeds suggest there's hundreds.

CDR-SITE-R: Could we open up a corridor to any of the portals, with a focused effort?

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

HEAD OF SECURITY: Yes, sir, I think so. We'd take considerable casualties, and I expect we'd lose some evacuees.

CDR-SITE-R: I'll pick up an M4 and join the defense.

HEAD OF SECURITY: All due respect, Colonel, I'd prefer to hold the corridor using people with more recent training and experience.

[DOOR BANGS]

NOW PRESENT: JUNIOR SECURITY OFFICER

HEAD OF SECURITY: What is it, Lieutenant?

JUNIOR SECURITY OFFICER: We have a spider problem, sir.

* * * * *

Incident Report 2026-03-22 12:09Z WTC

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

DACP IMMEDIATE INCIDENT REPORT - WARRENTON TRAINING CENTER

REPORTED BY: OFFICER CHARLES CARTER

TRANSCRIBED BY: DISPATCHER SHONA FRANKLIN

DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: 03/22/2026 08:04 EDT

INCIDENT CATEGORY: UNCATEGORIZED

LOCATION: WTC STATION B, NORTH OF BUILDING K

NARRATIVE:

1. At 8:04 a. m., Interior Patrol 6 called in a reported sighting of what they reported to have the appearance of a bear at the tree line in the vicinity of Building K. There having been no detected penetration of the perimeter of the site, Dispatch advised closer investigation.

2. Patrol 5 responded to a request for backup. On arrival, the creature had already caused severe and fatal injuries to both members of patrol 6. The creature was present but no longer obviously hostile.

3. The creature had some superficial resemblance to a bear in overall form, but lacked fur. Its hide appeared moist, and had clearly been penetrated by bullets fired by patrol 6, except across the chest and shoulders, which appeared to have some sort of armor plating. Its upper limbs ended in large claws or talons. Its face appeared much like that of a bear, aside from large, protruding lower canines.

4. Given the creature's obvious bullet wounds and the lack of harm they appeared to represent, further support was requested. Special Response units arrived in ASVs. Machine gun fire clearly had a greater effect on the creature than small arms, but it nonetheless started to move at high speed toward one of the vehicles firing at it.

5. Response teams supplemented fire with 40mm HEDP rounds. After two hits, the creature stopped attempting to attack. The response team commander called for a third round, which caused partial detachment of the creature's right upper limb, at which point it stopped moving.

6. Per instructions relayed by Dispatch, the body is being transported to the installation medical facility for closer examination.

FORM ENTERED INTO SITE RECORDS: 2026-03-22 12:09Z

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:10Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 12:10Z

PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, HANDFUL OF MILITARY STAFF, SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2

JENKINS: Corporal, I have new intel, and I need to brief the President. Right now.

SECURITY-1: I just need to check with Control, sir.

JENKINS: We don't have time for that!

SECURITY-1: Control, I have a CIA guy who wants to see the President.

JENKINS: [FRUSTRATED GROAN]

SECURITY-2: Sir, do you want a safe route, or not?

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:10Z SITE R

RECORDING TERTIARY COMMS CENTER@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:10Z

PRESENT: CDR-SITE-R, HEAD OF SECURITY, DEPUTY BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, JUNIOR SECURITY OFFICER, SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

HEAD OF SECURITY: So we're talking about dozens of targets, and how big are they?

JUNIOR SECURITY OFFICER: About four inches including the legs, sir. A coaster, maybe. They die if they take a bullet, but they're hard to hit.

HEAD OF SECURITY: And you said they look like giant house spiders, so that means the body's an inch or less, I'd guess. So we're shooting at a bunch of fast-moving quarters. [PAUSE] Break out shotguns, frangible and buckshot. Find some maintenance people and see if we have any steamers or cleaning sprays that might work. And have someone test fire extinguishers. All of them, but I'd bet on CO2.

JUNIOR SECURITY OFFICER: Yes, sir.

HEAD OF SECURITY: And try to keep at least one route between us and an exit clear.

DEPUTY BATTLE DIRECTOR: Someone should let the President know.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:10Z SITE R

RECORDING CONFERENCE B@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:10Z

PRESENT: POTUS, CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CMC, CNO, VCSA, VCSO, DNI, DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

DNI: Several of the planned congressional relocation sites are staffed. They're not far, and intended for between ten and thirty legislators each.

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Remote?

DNI: Maybe not all as remote as we'd like, but at least two are pretty out of the way, the President and Pro Tem can—

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Excuse me, ma'am, I'm just getting new information.

[SILENCE: 4 SECONDS]

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: We need to move, soon. The situation in this building may become untenable pretty quickly.

POTUS: How do you—

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Our watch desk thought it would be a good idea to listen in on base security comms, Mister President.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:11Z SITE R

RECORDING OPS CENTER@SITE-R/ANMCC 2026-03-22 12:11Z

PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), BATTLE DIRECTOR, HANDFUL OF MILITARY STAFF, SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2

SECURITY-1: Yes, Sergeant. Okay, sir, we're moving everyone now. If you'll just wait while people form—

JENKINS: People need this intel! I can't wait for people to form up.

NOW PRESENT: DCDR-SITE-R

DCDR-SITE-R: I'll escort Mr. Jenkins, Corporal.

SECURITY-1: Yes, ma'am.

DCDR-SITE-R: Things are moving quickly, Mr. Jenkins. You might have to do your briefing on the move.

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 12:12Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 12:12Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

o10.51.3.87:1@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

MALCOLMSON: I hope Brian's okay.

CPO FOSTER: I've kept his link live. If he can reconnect to whatever illegal bridge you've set up, he'll be right back online.

RIVERA: How are things in the White House, Leia?

CPO FOSTER: There's what looks like Special Forces prowling around. We saw them shooting something that looked like a cross between a xenomorph and Edward Scissorhands.

PHELAN: You're sure someone didn't send a team to retake the White House?

CPO FOSTER: Pretty sure. They aren't coming near us. We must have someone like Carol, but no idea who's doing it. They're prowling around the edge of a zone with maybe a fifty-meter radius. It also explains the less-mutilated bodies we found on the security cameras. I don't think they're friendly. [PAUSE] Oh, yeah, and they don't seem to need to reload.

MCAULEY: That's the second case we know of where different types of entities are fighting one another.

MALCOLMSON: I'm running the training again on the data as it is now. It should be enough, and we can't wait indefinitely. [PAUSE] I wonder how many of us there are. And why my zone takes active concentration and other people are doing it without knowing they are.

RIVERA: You did it without knowing the first time. It's about a state of mind, for you. A lot of these reports cover places of worship. Maybe they're actually praying to keep the monsters away, and one of them has your gift.

MALCOLMSON: I've set the training to maximum priority and I'm leaving my computer alone. It'll run all the stages and the analysis scripts, so when it's done we'll have all the data. The thing is, I'm more bothered by the fact you think it helped me get into the cable chase and choose the cable. If I can actually warp reality in that way, if other people can, it's going to be a real friction point for survivors. If people need us to keep the monsters at bay, and we can do other things, what stops us becoming tyrants?

QAYUM: Hopefully there's enough of you that the ethical ones can keep the others in line. But I worry about the potential for theocracies.

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

MCAULEY: I guess we're all worrying about that, now.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:12Z SITE R

RECORDING INTERNAL SECURITY POST 5@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:12Z

PRESENT: SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2, SECURITY-3, SECURITY-4, SECURITY-5

[SHOTGUN FIRE]

SECURITY-1: [SHOUTING OVER BACKGROUND] Not what I thought I'd be doing when I woke up yesterday.

[GAS WHOOSH]

SECURITY-2: I'd be worried if it was, Corporal.

[GAS WHOOSH]

SECURITY-3: New group, four o'clock!

[GUNFIRE AND WHOOSH INTENSIFY]

SECURITY-2: One got through! Watch it, Barnes.

SECURITY-4: Shit. I can't see it!

SECURITY-5: What do they think these things can do, anyway?

SECURITY-4: Ow, the little bastard bit me.

SECURITY-2: You okay, Barnes?

SECURITY-4: I feel kinda— ugh. Agh. [SCREAM]

SECURITY-1: Medic!

SECURITY-3: Barnes, what are you—

[LOUDER SHOTGUN FIRE]

SECURITY-3: Augh! What the—

SECURITY-1: Khan, disarm Barnes!

SECURITY-4: [INHUMAN GROWL]

[THWACK]

[THUMP]

SECURITY-5: [GROANS]

[LOUDER SHOTGUN FIRE]

SECURITY-1: Control, watch for spider bites. I just had to take out Barnes. Got bit and turned on us.

SECURITY-2: Corporal, the body.

SECURITY-1: Shit. Extinguisher, now! Fall back! Fall back!

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:12Z SITE R

RECORDING CONFERENCE B@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:12Z

PRESENT: POTUS, CJCS, SEAC, CJCS-ADC, CMC, CNO, VCSA, VCSO, DNI, DCIA, EA-DCIA, CDR-SITE-R, HEAD OF SECURITY, DEPUTY BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT, ASSORTED MILITARY STAFF

DNI: Sir, I think you should name an Acting Secretary of War before we move. That way if you're out of contact but not confirmed lost, someone has authority to direct the military.

POTUS: Fine. General, how do you feel about an accelerated retirement process?

CJCS: I'm honored at the suggestion, sir, but we'd need Congress to waive the seven-year rule.

POTUS: It has to be someone who's been a civilian for at least seven years?

DNI: Yes, Mister President.

POTUS: Okay, you—

DNI: Only been five years, sir.

POTUS: Is there anyone here with any military experience who hasn't been on active duty in the last seven years?

[SILENCE: 3 SECONDS]

POTUS: Well, that was a good idea, but—

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: There are several agents on the various details across the base who meet those criteria, Mister President.

DNI: It needs to be someone who's in a Senate-confirmed role, or has been a GS-15 in the Department of War for ninety days out of the last year.

POTUS: They don't make this easy, do they?

CDR-SITE-R: We have several GS-15 civilians on site who meet that requirement, Mister President, but they're all in Building A.

HEAD OF SECURITY: I appreciate the strategic importance of this, sir, but we really need to get moving. We have forces positioned to open a corridor, and three different routes to the exit are currently clear. But we only have so much shotgun ammo, and fire extinguishers are also limited.

POTUS: Someone come up with a solution and we'll swear them in when we get a chance. Major, what's the situation outside?

HEAD OF SECURITY: Swarms of those bat-like things, sir. They're hitting the doors regularly, but can't get through. The plan is to open the door a crack and pop a few grenades. Flashbangs too, though we don't know if they'll do anything. Once they go off, our security forces execute a dynamic egress and establish a corridor, or at least a bubble. Once they signal that they're secure, you and the other VIPs move out.

POTUS: The Pro Tem? You're getting Chuck too?

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: Yes, sir, we're coordinating with the Senator's detail.

HEAD OF SECURITY: The weird thing is that the things aren't approaching Building A. We've looked at every camera they haven't wrecked, and it's like there's a bubble around it.

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: We're not inclined to look a gift horse in the mouth, Major.

COMMS OFFICER: We just got word. We're down to two routes.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:14Z SITE R

RECORDING GUARD ROOM (DOOR C)@SITE-R/BUILDING B 2026-03-22 12:14Z

PRESENT: DCIA, EA-DCIA, SA-DCIA, DEPUTY BATTLE DIRECTOR, COMMS OFFICER, SECURITY-1, SECURITY-2, SECURITY-3

DCIA: Been a while since I wore a tactical vest.

SA-DCIA: I didn't know you were in the military, sir.

DCIA: I wasn't. And I'm not talking about black ops, either. You've been part of the Intelligence Community longer than I have, Sandra. You know that.

SA-DCIA: Didn't seem like the time to quibble.

NOW PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA), DCDR-SITE-R

DCIA: Colonel, Brian. I understand you have important information?

JENKINS: Yes, sir. Manifestations are accelerating everywhere. But we have solid confirmation of a number of safe zones. The largest subset are places of worship, but a number of places associated with science and technology are also showing the effect, and some seem to be random. A small number appear to be mobile. We have absolute confirmation that one instance is centered on a person who is able, through some sort of mental effort or exercise of will, to keep the manifestations away. There's some suspicion that this individual is also able to subtly manipulate reality in other ways. The working theory is that this ability became effective at the same time as the manifestations began.

SA-DCIA: Where's this one we have so much information about?

JENKINS: Vault B at Langley.

DCIA: Rivera?

JENKINS: No. They have an NSA representative, Carol Malcolmson.

SECURITY-1: Sir, please put these on, unless you're planning to stay behind.

JENKINS: Thanks.

SA-DCIA: Why do they think she can do other things besides just keep the manifestations away?

JENKINS: She picked the right fiber out of a couple dozen first try, she got through 2-hour fire-rated drywall in about a minute using a fire extinguisher, and she stopped anyone in the vault from speaking above a whisper for several minutes.

SA-DCIA: [WHISTLE]

DCIA: Well, we can figure out what to do with that information once we get out of here. I don't know how much longer they can hold back the spiders.

JENKINS: I really should update the team.

DCIA: Colin, can you set it up on my handheld?

EA-DCIA: I can give it a shot. What were the details?

* * * * *

Secure Conference 2026-03-22 12:15Z WHSR

xNOIWON-O2@CROWN 2026-03-22 12:15Z

oOPS-SAPF-B-SUPPORT@CIA-HQ

oOPS-SAPF-B@CIA-HQ

oOSE-WATCH-SAPF@CIA-OSE

oNGA-WATCH-SAPF@NGA-HQ

o10.51.3.87:0@JWICS

o10.51.3.87:1@JWICS

PRESENT: CAROL MALCOLMSON (NSA), ROBERT MCAULEY (CIA), LORENZA RIVERA (CIA); WILLIAM HEBERT (CIA); BRIDGET PHELAN (CIA), SOFIYA QAYUM (CIA), CASSANDRA WHITE (CIA), HAYLEY CROFT (NGA), MICHAEL NASH (NGA), JASBINDER ALAGH (NSA); CPO LEIA FOSTER (WHSR); JAVID FARHANG (CIA)

PHELAN: Maybe you should try to do something else, Carol. Move something with your mind or whatever.

MALCOLMSON: And why would I want to do that?

PHELAN: It's all data.

MALCOLMSON: Well, I think it sounds frivolous.

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

ALAGH: You already tried, didn't you?

MALCOLMSON: Only a couple of times. I tried to reheat my coffee as well. It seems I can't just do anything I can think of.

RIVERA: No. Seems like you can only do things you [PAUSE] I don't know. The common factor is that you really wanted them. But the first ones, if I'm right that you used this gift for them, were things you thought you could do. Maybe your own skepticism gets in your way.

MALCOLMSON: Well, right now what I want to do is look at the model, and I need it to finish training and the semantic extractions scripts to run, and that's going to be at least another ten minutes.

[PING]

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

ALAGH: There's more data for you.

MALCOLMSON: Shush. I need to look at this.

NOW PRESENT: BRIAN JENKINS (CIA)

JENKINS: [OVER SIGNIFICANT BACKGROUND NOISE] Lorrie! We've got bat-esque murder creatures in the cave, and man-eating shadows and spiders that are a bit like chryssalids in Building B.

MALCOLMSON: Which version of chryssalids?

JENKINS: OG, more or less. I didn't see it, but a security guy got bitten, turned his gun on his team, then more spiders started pouring out of his corpse. Listen, we're about to try extraction. There's a plan to disperse us in small enough groups to remote areas.

RIVERA: Have you told them about Carol's gift? We keep identifying more places that we think have them. Not enough, but it gives us some hope.

JENKINS: With the way things are moving here, I'm not sure how far up the chain it's gone. We'll be heading out in a couple minutes, I think.

CROFT: There's one not far from you. Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at Mount St. Mary's.

JENKINS: Means nothing to me, but I'll pass it on. I think I've got to go—

JENKINS: [OTHER VOICE] Hold onto it, son. It'll fit into the vest where a radio would go. This earpiece will connect to it.

RIVERA: Was that—?

JENKINS: The Director, yeah. I'm using his handheld.

WHITE: Were we on speaker?

JENKINS: No, but I just wrote down the destination and gave it to him. He passed it to his executive assistant, who's left the room.

JENKINS: [DISTANT VOICE] Position Three's going down!

MALCOLMSON: What's going on?

JENKINS: The very hungry shadows weren't that much of a threat if you know where they are. The spiders are much more aggressive. Look, I need to focus. I'm muting this connection. I'll let you know before we move.

* * * * *

Incident Report 2026-03-22 12:15Z WTC

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

DACP IMMEDIATE INCIDENT REPORT - WARRENTON TRAINING CENTER

REPORTED BY: SERGEANT KAYLA LAWRENCE

TRANSCRIBED BY: DISPATCHER PHILLIP JONES

DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: 03/22/2026 08:07 EDT

INCIDENT CATEGORY: UNCATEGORIZED

LOCATION: WTC STATION B, BUILDING D, EAST ENTRANCE

NARRATIVE:

1. Nearby staff reported shouting and gunfire from the security post at the east entrance at approximately 8:07 a. m., followed shortly by garbled radio communications from the area. Security cameras were found to be nonfunctional.

2. Backup units responded rapidly, but were forced to withdraw. Survivors of the supporting group report "small dinosaurs" with fanlike structures on their heads. These entities attacked with claws and corrosive spit. The entities numbered no fewer than five and no more than ten, based on survivor reports.

3. One survivor reported a creature climbing the wall before they fell back.

4. At 8:12 a. m., security camera functionality was restored. A unit was sent to investigate. The area was found clear of threats, with four dead entities recovered and transported for analysis. A ceiling vent cover lay on the floor, corroded at the edges.

5. Deceased DACP personnel were recovered and the post restaffed.

6. Joint security command has agreed to increase security presence in all areas, subject to security clearance, and upgraded arms for all security personnel in Building D.

FORM ENTERED INTO SITE RECORDS: 2026-03-22 12:15Z

TOP SECRET//DOWNWIND//NOFORN

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:15Z SITE R

RECORDING CAFETERIA/MIC-4@SITE-R 2026-03-22 12:15Z

PRESENT: PRO TEM, USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT, USCP-PROTEM-SHIFT, CW5 LAWRENCE HANSON

PRO TEM: Well, Chief, that seems like a pretty raw deal. But you're in the Army, you know orders are orders.

HANSON: Yeah, I know. I just [PAUSE] had a feeling, you know?

PRO TEM: You did good work. It just wasn't the work you were supposed to be doing. I'm sure we can get it all straightened out when this is over.

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: It's time to go, Senator.

USCP-PROTEM-SIFT: If you could put these on, sir.

PRO TEM: I'm not going to argue, but can I ask what's going on?

[SILENCE: 2 SECONDS]

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: We're taking you to join the President, sir.

HANSON: [QUIET] They're trying to get you out of here. They think it's not going to stay safe.

PRO TEM: [QUIET] Is that really necessary? Nothing's happened here.

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: [QUIET] Every other building's been hit. We're moving VIPs. Security is expecting high casualties. We don't want to create panic.

PRO TEM: [QUIET] Well, I can't say I like it. Do you like it, Chief?

HANSON: [QUIET] I'd like it better if I was joining security. Go out with a bang, doing something. I'm not a fan of waiting for those things to come and get us.

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: You've got your orders, Chief. We've got ours. Ready, Senator?

PRO TEM: You know, I can still refuse protection. I'm not required by law to accept it.

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: [QUIET] We're operating under the assumption that you're first in line, Senator. And most of the line behind you are gone, too. If nothing else, we're relying on your sense of duty.

PRO TEM: Well, you got me there, boys. Okay, let's go.

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:15Z SITE R

RECORDING INFIRMARY/CLINIC BAY@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 12:15Z

PRESENT: LTC VICTORIA DANQUAH (MSC), LTC SALLY GOLDSTEIN RN (ANC), MAJ AMANDA JACKSON MD (MC), CPT ANTHONY OSWALD MD (MC), CPT PETER BOUCHER PA-C (SP), CPT AMY BOGLE RN CEN (ANC), SGT PHILLIP DONALD LPN, SGT CAROLINE PORTER EMT-P, SPC HENRY JONES

OSWALD: I'm just saying, I hope this doesn't last long enough to start on the heat-and-serve rations.

BOUCHER: Oh, you get used to T-rats, Doctor Oswald. But we should have enough regular garrison supplies for a week or two, and then we're on to UGR-As. I figure they've got things stocked up so we won't run out of them for six, eight weeks. Sure, the point of this place is to be good for months if necessary, but it doesn't seem likely.

PORTER: And at least they've got a full kitchen here. They'll be able to heat everything prop—

[LOUD BELL]

[PAPER TEARING]

DANQUAH: MASCAL high probability, at least three minutes out, Door B!

JACKSON: Nature of injuries?

DANQUAH: Lacerations expected, other trauma likely.

JACKSON: Anyone still in uniform, get into PPE! Numbers?

DANQUAH: Unknown, could be dozens.

JACKSON: Jones, make sure the medical assist team from security is ready and have them send us five, six people. Porter, once they arrive get them to start staging litters at Door B. You stay there ready to receive. Captain Oswald, Captain Boucher, Captain Bogle, you're on triage. Colonel Goldstein, get word to Majors Jameson and Bonneau to unpack a DCS suite and prepare for patients, and make nursing assignments as you see fit. Colonel Danquah, we need surge staffing, call in the standby shift and wake up off-duty personnel. Let's go, people!

[CHAOTIC MIX OF VOICES AND ACTIVITY]

* * * * *

AMBIENT 2026-03-22 12:17Z SITE R

RECORDING THE UNDERGRIND@SITE-R/BUILDING A 2026-03-22 12:17Z

PRESENT: JOHN WHARTON (AAFES), JOANNE WILLIS (AAFES), HOLLY JAMES (CONTRACTOR), OTHERS

WILLIS: Medium triple-shot hazelnut cappuccino for Hol—

[DISTANT MUFFLED EXPLOSION]

WILLIS: —ly shit!

* * * * *

Incident Report 2026-03-22 12:17Z WTC

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DACP IMMEDIATE INCIDENT REPORT - WARRENTON TRAINING CENTER

REPORTED BY: LIEUTENANT DEMETRIUS FRANKS

TRANSCRIBED BY: DISPATCHER SHONA FRANKLIN

DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: 03/22/2026 08:10 EDT

INCIDENT CATEGORY: WILDLIFE

LOCATION: WTC STATION B, BUILDING I, MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

NARRATIVE:

1. At 8:10 a. m., an alarm was activated at the south entrance of Building I. Three raccoons had forced entry into the building and attacked security. However, all were neutralized and the incident was considered contained.

2. At 8:12 a. m., reports were received from multiple offices that aggressive raccoons were emerging from ducts and structural voids, including bursting through ceiling tiles. Each incident was contained within a matter of minutes with minor injuries, though the personnel involved were advised to seek post-exposure prophylaxis for suspected rabies.

3. At 8:14 a. m., a DACP officer who had been at the south entrance, and who was seeking medical attention, began to complain of a headache, and numbness at the wound site. By 8:15 a. m., this had progressed to agitation and delirium. Attempts to restrain the individual proved difficult, and he was rendered unconscious by a blow to the head.

4. At 8:15 a. m., an additional outbreak of raccoons occurred in the facility restrooms. Additional wounds were sustained.

5. At 8:16 a. m., a general evacuation from the building was ordered. All personnel who had been in contact with the raccoons were directed to seek immediate medical attention.

FORM ENTERED INTO SITE RECORDS: 2026-03-22 12:17Z

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TAC-COMMS 2026-03-22 12:17Z US Army

SITE R SECURITY COMMS 2026-03-22 12:17Z

[[NODE IDENTIFICATION ABSENT FROM LOG FILE. SPEAKERS IDENTIFIED BY VOICE WHERE POSSIBLE]]

[MUFFLED EXPLOSIONS]

UNKNOWN: Go! Go! Go!

[GUNFIRE CONTINUOUS]

[SCREECHING]

UNKNOWN: Form walls! Left and right, set sectors, by the numbers!

[SCREECHING]

[SCREAMS]

UNKNOWN: They're everywhere!

UNKNOWN: Second rank, cover overhead. Ready. Advance!

[SOUNDS OF COMBAT INTENSIFY]

UNKNOWN: General, is your team ready?

CJCS: Ready.

UNKNOWN: Heads down. Go!

[GUNFIRE INCREASES]

[SCREECHING]

[SCREAMS]

UNKNOWN: Team 2, bridge to A, go! Go!

UNKNOWN: With me!

[GUNFIRE FROM ADDITIONAL SOURCES]

UNKNOWN: Mister President, we don't know how long the defense will hold after it reaches the portal. If your detail is prepared, we'd suggest you move now.

USSS-BOBCAT-SHIFT: No objection, Captain. Form up around the principal!

UNKNOWN: Critical advisers now. Go! Go!

DCIA: Stick with me, Brian. We need your link!

JENKINS: Lorrie! We're moving! Whatever happens, you need to hear this!

[ADDITIONAL GUNFIRE]

[SCREAMS]

DCIA: Sergeant! Have they reached the portal?

UNKNOWN: No, sir! Making progress, though!

JENKINS: Wait, look at Building A!

DCIA: They're leaving it alone, we know.

JENKINS: Why didn't anyone tell me? Someone in there must—

[VOICES INAUDIBLE OVER GUNFIRE]

UNKNOWN: Oh, shit! The portal— [SCREAM]

HEAD OF SECURITY: Push on! We have no alternative!

UNKNOWN: The rocks are ali— [SCREAM]

HEAD OF SECURITY: Pass demo charges up!

DCDR-SITE-R: We'll lose the portal!

CDR-SITE-R: Maybe, but we can't use it as it is. Do it.

[LOTS OF SCREAMS]

UNKNOWN: We're losing ground!

UNKNOWN: The Chairman's down, they're coming out of the wa— [SQUELCH]

JENKINS: Director! This isn't going to work!

DCIA: It has to work, or nothing will!

[GRINDING NOISE]

UNKNOWN: Oh, shit, they're huge!

[LOUD CRASH]

CDR-SITE-R: Push on! If they're rock, they can be broken! Do we have the M3s?

UNKNOWN: We'll have to unpack them.

CDR-SITE-R: Do it now!

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: Ready to move, Senator! Now!

[LOUD CRASH]

PRO TEM: How are you going to protect me from flying boulders? Stay back.

[WHOOSH]

[EXPLOSION]

[CHEERS]

UNKNOWN: One down! Keep it—

[CRASH]

[THUMPING, GRINDING STONE FROM SEVERAL SOURCES]

JENKINS: Tell them to get the President back! Building A is safe, and it'll stay safe!

DCIA: Sergeant, can command hear this?

UNKNOWN: I can put you on a direct circuit, sir. Why?

DCIA: Because the man who knows the most about these things in the mountain is telling me to.

UNKNOWN: Here.

[WHOOSH]

[EXPLOSION]

UNKNOWN: We need more. Faster!

DCIA: I don't know who can hear this, but we need to fall back to Building A. Our top analyst considers it safe! Safe!

USSS-STATESMAN-SHIFT: Back inside! Back inside!

JENKINS: Director! The safe margin is right here!

[CRASH, SOUND OF ROCKS FALLING]

HEAD OF SECURITY: Is it going to stay safe with rocks being thrown at it?

CDR-SITE-R: The buildings could survive a significant portion of the cavern collapsing. Redirect the evacuation. Everyone who can get there, head to Building A, otherwise take shelter where you can. The portal's not usable.

[CRASH]

[SCREAMS]

UNKNOWN: Bobcat's down!

JENKINS: Director!

DCDR-SITE-R: With me! Form walls to the margin. Watch out for the rocks!

UNKNOWN: We're losing the flank, the bats are still attacking. Repeat, losing the [SCREAM]

[SCREECHING]

CDR-SITE-R: Bug out! Security, cover the retreat to Building A.

UNKNOWN: It's too far!

HEAD OF SECURITY: It's the only option!

UNKNOWN: Everyone's out of B. Rear guard covering the spiders.

UNKNOWN: Holy shit, the spiders!

[GUNFIRE INTENSIFIES]

CDR-SITE-R: Dammit. Every man for himself! Sauve qui peut! Head to Building A!

JENKINS: [BREATHING HEAVILY] See, sir! They can't cross that invisible line! Now if we can just get—

[CRASH]

SA-DCIA: Brian! Director!

DCDR-SITE-R: There's nothing we can do. Now get inside!

[CONTINUED SHOUTING, SCREAMING, GUNFIRE, SCREECHING AND CRASHING]