Chapter 42: Against yourself
After the meeting the O5 Council had, they suddenly notice there are 2 O5-4 members. They struggle in understand, but then, the second O5-4 suddenly changes shape. It was A'tellif, but she didn't attack them, she was curious of the situation. The O5 Council struggles with A'tellif, as for how long has been her so close without no one noticing? It was obvious, her abilities of stealth were impossible to match.
A'tellif: "It seems my plans have been scrapped... You all are facing someone stronger than Scarlet King... You are facing what it seems to be the Scarlet King's successor himself... I was here to change thing at my favor, but it does seems to be done already, while indeed, I did not have to act. Perhaps you have anything to stop A'malther, but if you do, this is the only help I will give you... Use what you can for victory... I do not want to help you, but continue with how things were with Scarlet King, and now the way with a stronger him, as his successor is."
Then, A'tellif suddenly vanished, disappearing from everyone's view, and so, they did another chat, until O5-4 remembered when SCP-2000 was used before the Reset, when SCP-105 died in the before timeline, and at the end, SCP-9743 did Reset everything to before the breach by a deal. And SCP-105 there was a 'clone' of the real one, in an attempt to calm him. They could make a clone of SCP-9743 of when he was still with SCP-105, both together, and he didn't know anything about Scarlet King, or the daughters, or even about A'habbat.
After some time, they reached to create a 'clone' of SCP-9743. The clone seemed uneasy and confused, as for him, he was with SCP-105 in their containment room, and now, it was in a strange room, the containment chamber of SCP-2000. When SCP-9743 clone noticed the O5 Council, he wondered, but did salute them.
The O5 Council's conversation with the clone of SCP-9743 would involve careful tact, attempting to assess his mental state and capabilities without alarming him. Here's how the exchange could play out:
O5-4: (Stepping forward, maintaining a calm demeanor) "Welcome back, SCP-9743. You may be wondering why you're here. Rest assured, this is merely an assessment, a chance for us to... reevaluate a few things. How are you feeling?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Slightly hesitant but polite, glancing around the room) "Well... I feel fine, I think. Though I'm... confused. Last I recall, I was with Iris, in the containment room. Is she alright? Why am I here? Did something happen?"
O5-1: (Interjecting with a measured tone) "Iris is fine. You've simply been relocated temporarily for a standard procedural review. Nothing to worry about. We only want to ensure everything is functioning as it should be—for you and for her."
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Nods slowly, visibly reassured) "Alright. If this is about containment or my abilities, you know I'm always willing to cooperate... as long as Iris is safe. She's everything to me."
O5-3: (Leaning forward slightly, testing the waters) "And that willingness to cooperate, SCP-9743—does it extend to safeguarding not just Iris, but the entirety of the Foundation and humanity? You've always shown great determination. We need to confirm it remains unwavering."
SCP-9743 (Clone): (With a faint chuckle) "Of course. Humanity has always been my priority, even if they sometimes... frustrate me. I exist to protect them, don't I? Isn't that what we agreed upon?"
O5-5: (Looking at the other Council members, then addressing SCP-9743) "Indeed. But as you know, priorities can shift over time. People change. Have you ever... doubted that purpose? Questioned your place here or... what might lie beyond containment?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Looking slightly troubled but keeping his composure) "I've questioned plenty—who wouldn't? But... no, my purpose remains the same. Protect Iris. Protect humanity. Whatever else is out there... it's not for me."
The Council exchanges glances, relieved but cautious. O5-4 decides to test further.
O5-4: "You speak of purpose, yet your determination has been tested before. If you were ever presented with a choice—between protecting Iris and protecting humanity—what would you choose?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Visibly unsettled, his gaze dropping to the floor) "That's... not fair. I shouldn't have to choose between them. But... if it came down to it, I'd... I'd do what's right. I'd find a way to protect them both."
O5-6: (Cold and pragmatic) "Sometimes, doing what's right means making sacrifices. Would you sacrifice yourself if it meant saving them both?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Immediately, without hesitation) "Yes. Without question. My life means nothing without them."
The Council takes note of his answer, subtly comparing it to the original SCP-9743's recent behaviors. O5-3 softens the tone, attempting to keep the clone calm.
O5-3: "Your resolve is admirable, SCP-9743. But tell us—do you remember anything unusual? Any... dreams, strange thoughts, or encounters that might feel out of place?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Looking puzzled, shaking his head) "No... Nothing like that. Everything feels normal. Why? Should I be worried?"
O5-4: (Quickly reassuring) "Not at all. It's just part of the process. You've been through a lot, and we want to ensure you're... grounded."
As the conversation proceeds, the Council carefully assesses the clone's responses, ensuring his mentality matches the SCP-9743 they knew before his transformation. However, O5-2 raises a pointed question.
O5-2: (Stern, cutting through the reassurances) "One last thing, SCP-9743. Hypothetically, if you were to find that something about you had... changed—your purpose, your desires—what would you do?"
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Confused, but thoughtful) "Changed? I don't know... I'd try to understand it, I suppose. But if it meant going against what I stand for—against Iris, against humanity—then I'd fight it. No matter what."
The Council concludes the conversation, their relief tempered by the knowledge that this clone, while cooperative and idealistic, is not the original SCP-9743. As they step away to discuss their findings privately, SCP-9743 (Clone) quietly speaks.
SCP-9743 (Clone): (Calling out as they leave) "Whatever's going on... just tell me. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right."
Post-Conversation Observations by the O5 Council:
O5-1: "He seems stable, cooperative. A stark contrast to A'malther's current state. But how long will it last?"
O5-4: "If he regains memories of his original self or the events that led to his transformation, this stability could shatter. We must tread carefully."
O5-6: "If nothing else, he provides a potential fallback. A contingency if the original proves... irredeemable."
O5-5: "But is it ethical? To manipulate a version of him that doesn't even know the full truth?"
O5-2: "Ethics are a luxury we can't afford right now. We'll do what's necessary to ensure humanity's survival."
After some time, in the shadows, A'tellif studied what O5 Council has done and was doing, but didn't act. Meanwhile, O5 Council leaded SCP-9743 clone to his containment room, where once he saw SCP-105, he didn't hesitate in go and hug her, but SCP-105 seemed hesitant in hugging him back, while her expression was one of sadness.
SCP-9743 (Clone): "Iris, is everything alright?"
SCP-105 only observed a little SCP-9743 clone, seeing how he was identical to when SCP-9743 was before A'habbat appeared, with the uniform both were given when they got their containment room. And then, she slowly looked away, sobbing.
SCP-9743 clone remained confused, trying to calm her down as much as he could, but he couldn't reach her, and neither use any ability. SCP-9743 clone looked shocked at his hands, as he was completely unable of doing anything at all, just be like if he was an ordinary human.
Suddenly, a portal opens nearby, and SCP-9743 appears, along A'habbat, now, both wearing the same clothes, but with ornaments and also, some sort of ceremony clothes. SCP-9743 went closer to O5 Council, while A'habbat walked at his side, with their arms crossed together, instead of hands.
SCP-9743: "Do tell me, do you have any busy plans or ideologies for soon?"
O5-4: "Our plans, SCP-9743, remain focused on maintaining global stability and humanity's survival. If your question implies an interruption or redirection, we would strongly advise against actions that jeopardize these objectives."
SCP-9743: "I do hope you not refer such tone and words in any sort of warning. But perhaps, you may, and yet, I will ignore it this time. I do wanted you all to assist something greater..."
Then, SCP-9743 clone leaves the containment room, and SCP-9743 notices him. Both staring to each other. The clone is surprised, shocked and speechless of seeing SCP-9743's appearance, and how everything seems, as A'habbat was holding arms with him, and the clothes both have. SCP-9743's expression was one of curiosity, and then, seriousness.
SCP-9743: "Do tell me, what is the meaning of this? Why do I have in front of me, myself? What have you done?"
O5-1: "This clone was created as a contingency measure, SCP-9743—a tether to who you were before. A version of you unburdened by your current state and recent transformations. Its purpose is to preserve an alternative path, should the need arise for your former self's perspective."
SCP-9743: "What do you want to accomplish with such objective? Do you really believe in such measure may work?"
O5-1: "The measure is not about belief but preparation. You are evolving, SCP-9743, into something far beyond what we initially contained. This clone offers a safeguard—a window into the you that once was. Whether it works or not is irrelevant; what matters is the possibility it provides us to address outcomes we cannot yet foresee."
SCP-9743 raises his right hand aiming at SCP-9743 clone, making it have a blue aura and float directly towards him. Then, SCP-9743 grabs SCP-9743 clone's soul, while it knees down with a painful desperate expression, with it's eyes closed.
SCP-9743: "Then, let me educate you properly. This version you obtained, does not have my soul, but an own soul. If you do really believe in him to be me, you are far beyond incorrect."
SCP-9743 drops his grip, and the clone's soul slowly floats back to it's body, vanishing slowly as gets closer to the clone. SCP-9743 clone's then opens it's eyes and starts relaxing, but remains with a worried expression.
SCP-9743 knees, and places his right hand on the clone's left shoulder.
SCP-9743: "... Raziel... They did obtain you for purposes to mirror me, in a point where I was in your position. They do fear me, and with desperation, they did bring you into this situation... You are the original Raziel... You are not possessed... You may not have any ability as magic or any other as you may think as memories, but you are indeed a regular human... You are supposed to be dead, and with this, you are here... But you do have something better than me... That angelical endless kindness that will remind despite everything. A endless deep will further than determination, and yet, something I did learn and obtain from the long time I was indeed with that body... You may never be able to be me, or have special abilities or magic, but you are the real angel, whose paper's role I was indeed playing as... Do not be me... You do have all I did, all I went through, and all of those memories... Are lessons I suffered for you... Use them as experience..."
SCP-9743 then got up, and A'habbat instantly placed her right arm grabbing his left arm, and then both were back again grabbing each other's arm.
A'habbat: (With a faint, approving smile, yet a hint of curiosity in her tone) "Such wisdom, A'malther… You truly do embody the duality of power and purpose. Even when faced with your former self, you see not a threat but a lesson—a reflection of what was left behind. However…"
(She glances briefly at the clone with measured indifference before turning her attention back to SCP-9743.)
A'habbat: "…why grant this tethered fragment such mercy? Raziel, as you called him, is but a shadow of what you were—an echo without resonance. Perhaps he is human, perhaps not, but his existence… It is unnecessary, my fiancé. Why preserve something so fragile when the divinity of your true self now reigns supreme?"
Her words linger, testing SCP-9743's resolve, as if she seeks to challenge his decision to view the clone as anything more than a relic of his mortal past.
SCP-9743: "... Because... His soul is truly deep of what kindness means... Something I am glad to see exist... As long I was inside that vessel in the past... I was chained, but that kindness was the real chain blocking the hatred for consuming humanity in my original world... The main reason I could persist within that hell... And the reason I see him as a real angel..."
A'habbat: Looking at SCP-9743 with a mixture of surprise and faint admiration, her usual regal demeanor softening slightly "...A real angel, you say... Such words from you, A'malther, carry more weight than the heavens themselves. To see you speak of kindness as a strength rather than a flaw… Perhaps you truly are growing into what a god must become—a balance between divinity and understanding."
A'habbat glances briefly at the clone, her gaze contemplative, though her tone remains slightly skeptical.
A'habbat: "Yet, I wonder… Will that 'angelic kindness' be enough to shield him—or even you—from the trials to come? Kindness is a fragile weapon, sibling. The weight of a god's domain often demands… harsher tools."
A'habbat: Turning back to SCP-9743, her voice softens slightly. "But if this kindness is a part of what forged you, then perhaps it deserves preservation… if only to remind you of where you came from and what you have overcome. Still, know this: gods cannot afford chains, even if they are made of kindness. Be wary, A'malther."
A'habbat's grip on SCP-9743's arm tightens slightly, her eyes locking onto his as if to remind him of the strength she believes he should fully embrace.
SCP-9743: "... I know what he is capable of, indeed... Is only pacifist, and hard to take down. And as a chain I had... I order it to chain humanity, as many as can. Maybe starting in low, but if persists, the effect will do slowly increase in distance..."
SCP-9743 then turns to look at the members of the O5 Council, now talking as giving an order.
SCP-9743: "You made him exist, you do take care of him... He may do not have special abilities, as for my knowledge... He does has similar abilities as that orange slime, in other ways of being."
O5-1: (With a composed but slightly wary tone) "We understand, SCP-9743. If this 'angel'—as you call him—embodies the same pacifist tendencies and stabilizing influence you describe, we will see to it that he is treated appropriately and utilized effectively. Chains, as you put it, can be both a burden and a safeguard, depending on how they are applied."
O5-4: (Adjusting their glasses, voice more analytical) "His presence, if managed properly, could indeed serve as a stabilizing factor among certain anomalies or even in broader containment strategies. However, the comparison to SCP-999—the orange slime—is intriguing. If Raziel possesses even a fraction of SCP-999's empathic abilities, he may prove invaluable in situations requiring non-lethal or morale-boosting approaches."
O5-7: (Sharply, leaning forward) "But let us be clear, SCP-9743. If this Raziel—your so-called 'angel'—acts in ways that jeopardize containment, humanity, or the Foundation, we will not hesitate to neutralize the threat. Even if it means undoing the existence we created."
SCP-9743: (Sternly, eyes narrowing)"You misunderstand me. Raziel will not be your weapon, nor your pawn. He is a reflection of something you cannot control—a truth you do not yet fully grasp. But you will care for him, as I have commanded. His purpose is not to serve you but to serve what I desire—chains for humanity, chains born of kindness and restraint. Betray this order, and I will remind you of your place."
O5-2: (A measured tone, attempting diplomacy) "We hear your command, SCP-9743, and we will comply. Raziel will be nurtured and monitored, as per your wishes. His influence may yet prove critical in ways even you have not foreseen."
O5-1: (Looking directly at SCP-9743, with finality) "It will be done. You have our word."
They exchange glances, each clearly calculating the potential implications of Raziel's existence while balancing the necessity of appeasing SCP-9743's demands.
SCP-9743: "He may not give emphatic effects as I remember that orange slime, as you call it as SCP-999, but he is more of a hand help in kindness as psychologically. More of being empathetic, but... I do not know how he may beware as normal. That is something you will do learn."
O5-1: (A nod, their voice even but thoughtful) "Understood, SCP-9743. While Raziel may lack the direct anomalous effects of SCP-999, his psychological influence may prove equally—if not more—effective in certain contexts. Kindness and empathy, when wielded correctly, are powerful tools."
O5-4: (Taking notes, analytical tone) "His capacity for psychological impact could be a unique asset, particularly in handling volatile anomalies or maintaining cohesion among staff. We'll observe his behavior carefully and document any patterns that emerge. If there are lessons to be learned from him, we will learn them."
O5-7: (Skeptical, arms crossed) "Let's hope this 'hand of kindness' doesn't become a hand that's bitten. Psychological effects can cut both ways, particularly if this… Raziel develops a perspective that conflicts with containment protocols."
O5-2: (With a diplomatic tone, glancing toward SCP-9743) "We'll manage him carefully, as per your directive, SCP-9743. And while we're learning from him, we'll also ensure he remains within the parameters of safety—for himself, for the Foundation, and for humanity as a whole."
O5-1: (Firmly, concluding the discussion) "We accept the responsibility you've assigned to us. Raziel's potential will be treated with the respect and caution it warrants. We will ensure he fulfills his role, whatever that may ultimately be."
They glance at each other, a mixture of curiosity and caution lingering in the air as they consider the implications of Raziel's nature and purpose.
SCP-9743: "Now... Do please refer at me with a name, instead of a tag. But I did arrive for other purposes, as are two objectives. The first one to use the upgrade machine, SCP-914. And as second... As how much tense is felt in here, I did had the idea of invite to something greater... Our ceremony. A moment already prepared and organized. Is optional to accept, but I do recommend accepting, as you may have a more relaxer moment than being here."
O5-1: (Standing composed, but with a slight bow of acknowledgment) "Very well, A'malther. We will respect your preference for a name. As for your objectives, they shall be addressed with appropriate consideration. If you wish to use SCP-914, you may proceed under controlled observation, as is customary."
O5-4: (Leaning slightly forward, intrigued) "Your second proposal—the ceremony—raises questions. A moment of reprieve is rare for individuals in our position. However, given the circumstances, I believe some of us may find value in attending, provided there is no hidden agenda we are unaware of."
O5-7: (Crossing arms, skeptical but diplomatic) "Your invitation is… appreciated, A'malther. However, ceremonies involving entities of your nature tend to carry deeper significance than mere relaxation. What exactly do you intend for us to witness, and how would this serve the interests of the Foundation?"
O5-6: (Neutral, but with a tone of caution) "We must consider the security implications. While we acknowledge your offer, we cannot ignore the potential risks inherent in stepping into your domain under ceremonial pretenses."
O5-1: (Glancing at the others before returning their gaze to SCP-9743) "Nonetheless, if your intentions are as you say, and this ceremony offers insight into your purpose or further clarity regarding your goals, then participation could be beneficial. Rest assured, we will discuss this invitation among ourselves before making a decision."
They collectively pause, weighing the balance between the potential benefits of witnessing the ceremony and the risks it could entail. The tension in the room remains palpable as SCP-9743 awaits their response.
SCP-9743: "Very well then. I guess you decided to not accept, a shame for you, but understandable."
Suddenly, A'tellif appears kneeing at both, A'habbat and SCP-9743.
A'tellif: "I will gladly participate in such honor, my king."
SCP-9743: "... Please, do not call em your king. I am not the king of anything. Also, what do you want?"
SCP-9743 grabs and lifts A'tellif up, his grip on her chin and mouth.
A'tellif: "I want to serve you, my god."
SCP-9743 drops A'tellif, and she knees once again.
SCP-9743: "Well, if you do really wish such action, I will grant it..."
Chapter Title: The Chains of Allegiance
Overview
Following SCP-9743's latest actions and developments, the Foundation has reached a critical point in its relationship with the anomaly now referred to as A'malther. His decision to utilize SCP-914 for transformation, his declaration of authority, and his increasingly complex relationship with A'habbat have all pushed the Foundation into uncharted territory. This chapter explores the events surrounding SCP-9743's invitation to a "ceremony," his encounter with a clone of his former self, and the unexpected appearance of A'tellif, one of the Scarlet King's daughters. The chapter concludes with the O5 Council's analysis of the growing web of allegiances and their implications for humanity's future.
Section 1: Encountering the Clone
The O5 Council's decision to create a clone of SCP-9743 (referred to as "Raziel" by A'malther) served as a contingency plan, rooted in the desire to retain a version of SCP-9743 unburdened by his current transformation and allegiance to A'habbat. The clone demonstrated a strong emotional connection to SCP-105, coupled with confusion over his circumstances and a lack of anomalous abilities.
When SCP-9743 encountered the clone, the interaction revealed several key insights:
SCP-9743's View of Raziel: SCP-9743 did not perceive the clone as a threat or as a genuine copy of himself but rather as a separate entity with its own soul. His labeling of the clone as "the real angel" underscores a stark divide between who he once was and who he has become.
Empathy and Kindness: SCP-9743's acknowledgment of the clone's "angelic kindness" offers a rare glimpse into the anomaly's self-reflection. His recognition of the clone's unique value suggests a lingering attachment to his former ideals, even as he continues to embrace his godlike persona.
Strategic Implications: The O5 Council noted SCP-9743's explicit instruction to use the clone as a "chain for humanity." This directive positions Raziel as a psychological counterbalance to humanity's more destructive tendencies, further cementing SCP-9743's role as a self-styled arbiter of morality.
O5-1's Commentary:
"Raziel's creation was a calculated risk, but the results have exceeded expectations. SCP-9743's recognition of the clone's distinctiveness provides an avenue for cooperation—albeit one fraught with potential manipulation. His insistence on Raziel's preservation aligns with his broader objectives, but we must remain vigilant. Kindness, while a virtue, is not an impenetrable shield."
Section 2: The Ceremony Invitation
After the interaction with the clone, SCP-9743 addressed the O5 Council directly, offering them two objectives:
The use of SCP-914 for further experimentation. An invitation to attend a ceremony he described as an opportunity for relaxation and deeper understanding.
The Council's response to the ceremony invitation was mixed:
Security Concerns: The ceremonial nature of the event, combined with SCP-9743 and A'habbat's increasing divinity, raised alarms regarding the potential for hidden agendas.
Strategic Value: The invitation also presented a unique opportunity to observe SCP-9743's behavior, gather intelligence on his evolving relationship with A'habbat, and assess the cultural and symbolic significance of the event.
Ethical Dilemmas: Attending the ceremony could be seen as tacit approval of SCP-9743's authority, further complicating the Foundation's stance on containment versus cooperation.
O5-4's Commentary:
"While the invitation may appear benign, history teaches us that such gestures often conceal ulterior motives. However, rejecting the invitation outright risks alienating SCP-9743 further, potentially escalating tensions. A cautious acceptance, with appropriate safeguards, may yield valuable insights."
Section 3: The Appearance of A'tellif
As the Council deliberated on the ceremony, A'tellif—the Scarlet King's stealth-oriented daughter—revealed herself within Site-19. Her ability to infiltrate undetected highlighted the severity of her anomalous capabilities and raised immediate questions about security and intent.
Key observations from A'tellif's appearance include:
Acknowledgment of SCP-9743's Ascendancy: A'tellif's statement that the Council now faced "the Scarlet King's successor" reinforced the gravity of SCP-9743's transformation. Her admission that she had been observing events without intervention suggested a degree of caution and pragmatism in her approach.
Her Offer of Help: While A'tellif's assistance was limited to vague advice—"use what you can for victory"—her presence underscored the shifting power dynamics between the Foundation, SCP-9743, and the remnants of the Scarlet King's forces.
Potential Alignment: A'tellif's subsequent pledge of loyalty to SCP-9743 further complicated the situation, raising concerns about her motives and the implications of her allegiance.
O5-7's Commentary:
"A'tellif's presence within Site-19 is a clear demonstration of the vulnerabilities inherent in our containment protocols. Her loyalty to SCP-9743—if genuine—may provide a measure of stability, but we cannot ignore the possibility of subterfuge. Trusting her would be a mistake; monitoring her, however, is imperative."
Section 4: SCP-9743's Transformation and Leadership
With A'tellif's loyalty established, SCP-9743 continued to assert his authority, referring to himself as "A'malther" and reiterating his intent to rule humanity with understanding and kindness—tempered by the chains of his will.
Key developments include:
Further Use of SCP-914: SCP-9743's interest in SCP-914 for additional upgrades signals his intent to refine and enhance his abilities, potentially pushing his anomalous limits even further.
Consolidation of Power: By accepting A'tellif's allegiance and positioning Raziel as a psychological counterbalance, SCP-9743 is actively building a hierarchy that blends divine authority with practical governance.
Defiance of Containment: SCP-9743's continued independence and willingness to challenge the Council's authority underscore the erosion of traditional containment strategies. His self-perception as a god complicates efforts to enforce compliance through conventional means.
O5-2's Commentary:
"A'malther's actions are a double-edged sword. On one hand, his apparent desire for balance suggests he values stability and order. On the other hand, his consolidation of power—through A'tellif, Raziel, and his own transformation—positions him as a growing threat to the Foundation's ability to maintain control. The question is not whether he will act against us, but when."
Conclusion
The events of this chapter mark a significant turning point in the Foundation's relationship with SCP-9743. His transformation into A'malther, coupled with his alliances and evolving philosophy, represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
While the clone offers a tether to SCP-9743's former self, it also underscores the divergence between his human origins and his current state. A'tellif's allegiance, though tentative, introduces a potential ally—or adversary—whose intentions remain uncertain.
As the Foundation grapples with these developments, the O5 Council recognizes the need for a delicate balance: leveraging SCP-9743's potential while preparing for the inevitable clash between his vision and their mission.
O5 Council's Final Thoughts:
O5-1: "A'malther is no longer just an anomaly; he is a force shaping the future of this world. Whether we stand with him or against him, we must tread carefully."
O5-4: "Our containment protocols are obsolete in the face of such power. Adaptation is our only option."
O5-7: "Trust is a luxury we cannot afford. Every action he takes must be scrutinized for ulterior motives."
O5-2: "The balance of power is shifting. We must ensure that humanity remains on the right side of history—even if it means rewriting our own rules."