The Pilgrimage Epilogue

     On the table by a recliner there was a document. It was stamped and marked, bearing the letterhead of the Central Intelligence Agency. The paper was worn, its edges frayed, from being held too often and the corner was curved in the shape of the man's palm.

[U.S. Central Intelligence Agency - Domestic Operations Division]

Targeting Recommendation Memo For Internal Review Only RE: Anti-Government Extremist Staging Ground – Operation Authorization Classification: SECRET-NOFORN

To: Director, Domestic Operations Division From: Special Agent [REDACTED] Date: [DATE REDACTED] Subject: Drone Strike Authorization - Suspected Insurgent Base, Dallas, TX

Background:

Per actionable intelligence derived from multiple sources, a staging ground for suspected anti-government extremists has been identified at [REDACTED], an apartment complex located in Dallas, Texas. Recent surveillance confirms heavy foot traffic consistent with insurgent tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) involving asymmetric warfare operations.

Assessment of Target:

The apartment complex located at [REDACTED] has been assessed as a high-probability staging location for material and personnel intended for insurgent actions against federal interests. Signals intelligence (SIGINT) combined with human intelligence (HUMINT) sources suggest an estimated 85% probability of active hostiles being present at the time of strike.

Recommended Action:

Utilize available air assets to conduct a precision drone strike on the designated location. Authorization for engagement granted with expected civilian collateral damage rated “acceptable” based on urgency and potential strategic value.

The document’s language shifted into clinical precision as it moved to the strike aftermath.

After-Action Report Date: [DATE REDACTED] Location: [REDACTED], Dallas, TX

Summary of Engagement: Drone strike executed as authorized at 0200 hours on the designated target. Two air assets engaged, resulting in multiple structural hits.

Battle Damage Assessment (BDA):

Confirmed Hostiles: 0

Estimated Civilians Killed: 14 (Including minors, ages 4–16)

Estimated Civilians Wounded: Unknown (Emergency Services unable to reach site immediately)

Assessment: No confirmed insurgent presence post-strike; negative hostile count verified through secondary sweep conducted by [REDACTED].

Remarks:

Intelligence leading to this strike is under review due to discrepancies observed in initial staging assessments. Potential review of sources and methodology advised to ensure accuracy and fidelity of future operations.

Collateral Damage Status: High

Justification for Continued Operations: Pending further internal assessment. Additional review requested to determine systemic or analytical error.