《Tales from the SCP Foundation》


 Chapter 1 - Curious Anomaly

    Maya sat at her desk, engrossed in the reports and paperwork spread before her. The recent anomalies captured by the Foundation required her attention, and she diligently addressed each issue, her mind focused on the task at hand.


    As she worked, a small smile formed on her lips, reminiscent of the interactions she had with Blank, SCP-1701, a young anomaly who arrived at the Foundation two months ago.


    Just as she was lost in her thoughts, Alex appeared at the doorframe, his curiosity piqued by Maya''s smile. He leaned against the frame, his gaze fixed on her, and he couldn''t help but ask,


    "Maya, what''s got you smiling like that?"


    Looking up from her documents, Maya''s smile widened, and she motioned for Alex to enter her office.


    "Alex, have you ever heard of SCP-1701? We call him Blank."


    Alex furrowed his brow, his expression betraying a hint of unease.


    "I''ve heard the name, but I don''t know much about him. Seen him around a few times. Gotta admit, though, he gives me the creeps."


    Maya leaned back in her chair, understanding Alex''s apprehension. She knew that Blank''s appearance, with his unsettling eyes and anomalous abilities, could be scary.


    However, she also knew the true nature of Blank, the innocence that dwelled within him. With a comforting tone, Maya began,


    "Blank may seem strange at first, but I assure you, he''s not dangerous. In fact, he''s quite friendly. He used to be a human, and he still retains his curiosity and joy.


    The anomaly he possesses allows him to remove specific memories, but only if he loses control of his emotions. It''s part of his defence mechanism, I believe."


    Alex''s skepticism softened as he listened to Maya''s explanation. He leaned closer, intrigued by Maya''s words.


    "So, you''re saying he''s harmless?"


    Maya nodded, her smile warm and reassuring.


    "No anomaly is safe, and you know all about it, Alex. But Blank is a sweet child at heart. I''ve had a few interactions with him, and he''s shown nothing but curiosity and a desire to connect with others.


    I believe that befriending him could be beneficial for both of us. We could learn from him, and in return, we can provide him with a sense of companionship."


    As Maya spoke, her attention shifted to the window, her eyes widening in delight. She couldn''t help but interrupt her conversation with Alex.


    "Look, there they are!"


    Alex followed her gaze, observing Dr. Duchermen walking alongside Blank. The anomaly seemed animated, pointing at various objects and asking questions, while Dr. Duchermen patiently engaged in conversation with him.


    The sight was endearing, and it further solidified Maya''s belief in the goodness within Blank. Maya turned back to Alex, her voice filled with conviction.


    "See? Blank just needs understanding and friendship. And with Dr. Duchermen''s guidance, I believe he has a chance to flourish here. So, what do you say, Alex? Will you give him a chance?"A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Alex watched the duo through the window, a smile slowly spreading across his face.


    He turned to Maya, his eyes shining with newfound openness.


    "You know what? I think I will. Let''s give Blank a chance."


    As Ravierre knocked on the open door, the noise of Blank''s inquisitive chatter filled the air, causing a playful glimmer to dance in Maya''s eyes. She gestured for Ravierre to enter, simultaneously waving at Blank, who returned her gesture with an infectious grin.


    Ravierre stepped into the office, his calm demeanour contrasting with the lively atmosphere surrounding Blank. He motioned for Blank to occupy himself for a while, knowing that he needed a moment alone with Maya. The anomaly obediently walked over to Alex''s side, his eyes wide with curiosity.


    With a gentle pat on Blank''s shoulder, Ravierre leaned closer to Maya, handing her a stack of documents related to Blank''s psychological profile.


    "Maya, I''ve compiled some information about Blank that I thought might be helpful. It includes his preferences, strengths, and areas of interest. It should give us a better understanding of his unique needs and how we can support him."


    Maya took the documents, flipping through the pages with a mix of curiosity and gratitude. She looked up at Ravierre, a glimmer of appreciation in her eyes.


    "Thank you, Ravierre. This will definitely help us create a more conducive environment for Blank. It''s remarkable how much progress he''s made since he arrived here."


    Ravierre nodded, his voice filled with pride.


    "Indeed, he''s a remarkable anomaly. Despite his unusual abilities, he possesses an innocence and curiosity that is truly endearing. I''ve been working closely with him, building trust and helping him navigate his new reality. It''s been a rewarding experience."


    As Ravierre and Maya delved deeper into the discussion, exploring strategies to support Blank''s growth, they were too engrossed in their conversation to hear Blank''s voice drifting over from Alex''s side.


    Blank''s curiosity spilled out in a torrent of questions, causing a hint of unease to flicker across Alex''s face. Blank tugged at the sleeve of Alex''s shirt, his voice filled with excitement.


    "Hey, what do you do here? Do you like it? Can you show me something cool?"


    Alex, initially taken aback by the sudden barrage of questions, quickly composed himself, realizing that Blank simply saw him as a potential playmate. He smiled warmly, deciding to engage with the curious anomaly.


    "Well, I''m a guard here. My job is to keep everyone safe and make sure nothing bad happens. It can be challenging sometimes, but I do enjoy it. And as for something cool, hmm... How about I show you a neat trick later? Would you like that?"


    Blank''s eyes widened with anticipation, a bright smile lighting up his face.


    "Yes, please! That sounds amazing!"


    As their conversation continued, Alex took on the role of a friend, sharing tales of his experiences and gently explaining that not everyone they encounter would be as kind and understanding as Blank.


    As the conversation unfolded, Alex''s initial unease melted away, replaced by a genuine connection with Blank. Alex discovered the joy of embracing Blank''s innocence and curiosity, finding himself more at ease in the presence of the anomaly.


    Meanwhile, Maya and Ravierre continued their discussion, unaware of the interaction taking place nearby.


    They delved deeper into the intricacies of Blank''s psychological profile, weaving strategies and ideas that would further support his integration into the Foundation.


    As their conversation drew to a close, Maya and Ravierre exchanged appreciative nods, grateful for their fruitful discussion. However, before parting ways, Alex asks Maya for a favour.


    "Maya, do you mind if I borrow your radio for a moment? I want to show Blank how it works."


    Maya smiled warmly and nodded.


    "Of course, Alex. Go ahead, show him how it works. I''m sure he''ll be thrilled."


    With the radio in hand, Alex stepped outside the office and closed the door behind him. Blank''s eyes lit up with excitement as he eagerly awaited Alex''s trick.


    "What is he doing?" Blank asked, looking to Maya and Ravierre for an answer.


    Ravierre chimed in, unable to fully suppress his smile.


    "Just wait for an instant. We''ll help you when you need it so don''t worry."


    Alex''s voice crackled through the radio, reaching Blank''s eager ears. The child anomaly listened intently and responded with enthusiasm, his innocence shining through his every word.


    The room filled with the sound of their playful exchange, Maya''s smile growing wider with each passing moment.


    Just as the atmosphere brimmed with joy and newfound connection, the serenity was abruptly shattered by the deafening sound of an explosion.


    The lights in the entire building flickered and dimmed, casting the room into darkness. Panic washed over them as instructions materialized on their smartwatches, the urgent words commanding their attention:


    "Code black: breach by SCP-0010. No movements and sound except by authorized staff."

 Chapter 2 - Nightmarish

    Ivan Kaiser was on the way to a meeting following one of his new inventions. It was a meeting about the limitations of his invention, how to use it, and in what circumstances it could be useful.


    Although important, he valued his mental integrity over this meeting, as he had already taken part in three meetings in rapid succession.


    Taking his time, with smaller steps than usual, the sudden explosion next to him sent him to the floor. His confusion only grew when the lights turned off, plunging the corridor into darkness.


    Realizing the situation he was in, Ivan instinctively reached for his smartwatch to gather information and assess the threat. However, to his dismay, he realized he had forgotten his smartwatch in his office. Panic gripped his chest as he strained to make out anything in the pitch-black surroundings.


    Feeling disoriented and vulnerable, Ivan''s mind raced with thoughts of the potential dangers lurking in the darkness. He knew he had to remain calm and think clearly. Groping along the wall for support, he slowly started to inch forward, cautiously feeling his way through the corridor.


    Every step was deliberate, every movement measured, as Ivan relied on his senses to navigate the unfamiliar territory. His ears strained to catch any sound that might provide a clue or guide him to safety. The echoes of his own footsteps reverberated, adding to the eerie ambiance.


    Without any visual cues, Ivan''s mind conjured unsettling images, his imagination fueled by fear. Every creak and rustle seemed magnified, heightening his unease.


    He couldn''t shake the feeling that he was being watched, that unseen eyes were fixed upon him from the shadows.


    As he ventured deeper into the darkness, his heart pounded in his chest, the adrenaline coursing through his veins. The oppressive silence weighed heavily upon him, broken only by the sound of his own breath, ragged and anxious.


    Ivan''s thoughts raced, contemplating the possibilities of what could have caused the explosion and the sudden loss of light. Was it a breach, an anomaly unleashed upon the facility? His mind raced through potential scenarios, each more terrifying than the last.


    Time seemed to stretch as he continued his cautious progress. The darkness became suffocating, pressing in on him from all sides.


    Doubt gnawed at his resolve, but he knew he couldn''t succumb to fear. He had to find a way a way out of this.


    Suddenly, Ivan''s attention was drawn to a peculiar sight on the walls. Eyes started growing on the walls, their strange shapes and details captivating his gaze despite the danger.


    He shook his head, and picked up his pace, desperately hoping to find an exit.


    But his escape was short-lived. In the disorienting darkness, he collided with an unseen obstacle, sending him crashing to the floor. Stunned and disoriented, Ivan kept his eyes closed, waiting for his demise. He knew the anomaly wouldn''t let him go.


    ...


    As the doors sealed shut, Alex found himself locked outside, separated from the rest of the team. A surge of anxiety coursed through him, exacerbated by a sudden onset of an intense migraine. He instinctively reached for the radio, a lifeline connecting him to his friends and to Blank, the entity accompanying them.


    In that moment, Alex''s mind raced, grappling with the gravity of the situation. The darkness loomed, and the stakes were high.


    Alex: Blank, buddy, can you hear me? It''s Alex.


    Blank: [Static crackles, followed by a faint response] Yeah, Alex, I''m here. What''s happening? Why did the doors close?You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Alex: Hey there, champ. Listen, we''re dealing with something called SCP-0010. It''s a real nasty piece of work. The doors closed to keep it contained.


    Blank: I can feel something... It''s scary, Alex. What should I do?


    Alex: I know, kiddo. It''s a lot to take in. But you know what? I''ve talked to you earlier, and I know you are stronger than that. Take a few breathers; It helps me when something scary happens.


    Blank: I... I''ll try, Alex. But it''s really hard.


    Alex: I know it is, buddy. But you''re not alone. We''re here for you, every step of the way. It''s important for you to understand that your fear is impacting your friends as well.. We''re a team, and we need each other''s strength. Can you find that it inside you?


    Blank: [Confused] Alex, why are you talking so loud?


    Alex: Oh, sorry bud. Sometimes when I''m worried, my voice gets a bit loud. But that''s because I care about you and everyone else. I need you to understand how important it is for all of us to stay calm. Can you help me with that?


    A heavy silence followed Alex''s explanation. Slowly, Blank''s panic began to subside as he considered Alex''s words. He realized that his fear was indeed causing harm to his friends, and he couldn''t let that continue.


    Blank: [Softly] Okay, Alex. I''ll try to be strong. But it''s still scary.


    Alex: That''s my guy! I''m proud of you, Blank. Remember, we''re in this together. Keep talking to me, and let''s figure out how to get through this darkness. You''re doing great, kiddo.


    ...


    A chilling sensation crawled up his spine, followed by another and another, like electrical currents jerking his body. The feeling intensified as cold, bony fingers landed on his skin, enveloping every cell in contact with the anomaly. Ivan''s screams echoed through the darkness as more and more hands gripped him, causing him unimaginable pain.


    Just when he thought he couldn''t bear it any longer, a chilling, weak, and uneven voice pierced through the torment. It commanded him to stop whatever he was doing wrong. Ivan''s blood ran cold as he complied, ceasing his screams and squirming.


    As if in response to his compliance, the torment ceased, and silence descended upon the corridor. Ivan lay there, his mind disconnected from reality, unsure of what was happening. He waited, suspended in the unknown, hoping for some clarity, but time seemed to stretch endlessly.


    Ivan Kaiser''s heart pounded in his chest as he mustered the courage to open his eyes. With trepidation, he peered into the shades of darkness, and a chilling realization washed over him. Before him, painted by the shifting shadows themselves, was a face unlike any he had ever seen. It defied logic, ethereal and ever-changing, yet he instinctively associated it with the horror following him.


    As Ivan''s eyes locked with the entity, a profound transformation began to unfold. The initially serene and content expression gradually twisted, contorting into an expression of pure rage. Darkness amassed around the entity, shrouding it in layers of deep, sinister wrinkles, distorting its once benign allure.


    The creature''s presence filled the corridor, its unhurried approach instilling a primal fear within Ivan.


    Trapped and bereft of any means of escape, Ivan found himself unable to tear his gaze away from the monstrous entity. The thousands of eyes that sprouted across its form pierced his very soul, plunging him into the depths of his own worst nightmares. Each scene played out before him, a macabre symphony of torment that relentlessly assaulted his sanity.


    Driven to the edge of despair, Ivan''s grip tightened around the invention nestled in his pocket. In a final act of desperation, he drew the sharp edge of the device across his chest, a painful reminder that it was never meant to be used for such purposes.


    Suddenly, bright light flashes overwhelmed the creature, momentarily halting its advance. The screeches that had filled the air ceased, allowing Ivan to escape the grasp of his own nightmares.


    As the creature retreated from the intense lights, Ivan''s battered body succumbed to its weakness, plunging him into a deep slumber.


    Unbeknownst to him, Sarah Ignes, one of the agents tasked with containing SCP-0010 and leading the operation, quickly dispatched someone to retrieve the unidentified body lying on the floor. Meanwhile, she orchestrated the strategic placement of high-intensity flashlights, effectively cornering the entity, SCP-0010, in the hallway.


    With calculated precision, the teams guided the anomaly toward its designated enclosure, a secure area with light-absorbing walls that would keep the monster at bay until its next outburst.


    After successfully securing SCP-0010 back into its enclosure, a collective sigh of relief swept through the agents involved in the operation. The corridor was once again bathed in the comforting glow of restored light. Sarah Ines, the leader of the teams entrusted with containing the creature, felt a wave of satisfaction wash over her upon hearing that the doctor, Ivan Kaiser, had survived the encounter.


    With the immediate crisis averted, Sarah turned her attention to the next steps in ensuring the continued containment and study of SCP-0010. The facility would need to undergo a thorough assessment to identify any vulnerabilities or improvements needed in its security measures.


    As she oversaw the final stages of the operation and the extraction of the surviving doctor, Sarah couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride in her team''s accomplishments. They had successfully faced and subdued one of the most fearsome anomalies.