Chapter 47: Deeply warmly welcomed
A'malther entered his voidful domain, and from the instant he entered the slightness, his void already suffered the pressure of his presence.
After a moment, A'malther continued, until quickly, A'habbat finally saw him, getting speechless and in complete shocked, observing every detail of A'malther. Then a soft, knowing smile grace her lips as she steps forward, perhaps reaching out to touch the glowing veins of power coursing through his form. Her voice melodic, resonating with pride.
A'habbat: "You have surpassed even my expectations, A'malther. Your form... your essence... it is divinity perfected. A god worthy of reverence, a king among existence itself."
A'habbat moved in a seductive way, adoring and loving in what A'malther became, as he was finally divine in every aspect.
A'habbat: "You are truly mine now, A'malther, in every way. And I am yours—eternally. Together, there is nothing we cannot conquer."
A'tellif remained frozen momentarily, her translucent red skin faintly glowing as she processes his overwhelming presence. Her sharp, glass-like body might even flicker faintly as if struggling to contain her own excitement.
After a short moment, she instinctively kneels, bowing her head deeply, her sharp hands resting on the ground. Her voice would quiver with awe.
A'tellif: "My god, you have ascended to a form beyond comprehension. You are the pinnacle of creation, the light in the void. Command me, and I shall obey without hesitation. I exist to serve you, my lord. Whatever you desire, whatever you need, I will ensure it is done."
After a moment, A'malther went to his laboratory, and saw the amount of files, and then A'tellif explained to him she collected all those files for him.
A'tellif: "My god, I did collect all information of every different 'SCP' humans did investigate, for you, for unlock not only the secrets on that 'SCP-914', but also in the rest."
A'malther: "Thanks, A'tellif, you did indeed a certainly great job."
A'malther's comment was short, and yet, much more than enough for make A'tellif be proud of herself, as she had his acceptance, and even recognition of her effort.
Then, A'malther opened a portal to Site-19, with a clear objective to accomplish. What made the entire Facility of Site-19 react instantly.
A'malther's portals, like his physical form, would have evolved to reflect his new divine and transcendent nature.
Visual Design:
Ethereal Glow: The portals would radiate an intense, pulsating glow of **purple** and **red**, symbolizing his balance between determination and his divine status. The glow would appear almost liquid, as if reality itself is being melted and reshaped to create the portal.
Fractals and Geometry: The edges of the portal would be adorned with intricate fractal patterns and shifting geometric designs, constantly evolving and reflecting his elevated intelligence and control over the multiverse. The patterns could resemble ancient runes or celestial scripts, symbolizing his mastery over knowledge and existence.
Duality in Light: A'malther's unique fusion of past and present would manifest in the form of **blue and crimson veins** coursing through the portal's edges. The blue represents the kindness and determination of his past self, while the crimson reflects his ambition, godhood, and sheer power. These veins might pulse in rhythm with his presence, as if the portal is alive and responding to his will.
Infinite Depth: Looking into the portal would feel like staring into infinity. The center would shimmer with a kaleidoscope of colors representing the multiverse, showing faint glimpses of stars, planets, and alternate dimensions. This effect would highlight his newfound ability to traverse not just space but time and realities.
Sound and Sensation:
Harmonic Resonance: The portals would emit a deep, harmonious hum, as if the universe itself were singing in response to their creation. The sound would have layers—low, resonant bass tones coupled with faint angelic choirs, reinforcing the sense of divinity.
Physical Sensation: Those near the portal would feel a gentle pull, like gravity bending slightly, accompanied by a cool, tingling sensation on their skin. It would feel as though reality itself is bending and reshaping around them.
Shattering Reality Effect: When the portal appears, it would "shatter" the space it occupies. Cracks of light and shadow would ripple outward for a moment before stabilizing, emphasizing that A'malther is breaking through the fabric of reality itself.
Creation and Closure:
Manifestation: The portals would form with dramatic flair, first appearing as a small, singular point of bright light, which quickly expands outward in a ripple-like motion. As it grows, the fractal patterns and glowing veins would emerge along the edges, solidifying its shape.
Closure: When a portal closes, it would collapse inward with a **flash of light** and a faint implosion sound, leaving behind a residual ripple in the air that fades slowly, as if space is healing from the disruption.
Symbolic Representation:
A'malther's portals are not just functional—they are a manifestation of his new self. Their intricate designs and overwhelming presence reflect his mastery over existence, his willingness to embrace both his divine ambition and his past kindness, and his unmatched determination to reshape reality according to his will. These portals would act as a declaration of his ascension, making it clear to anyone witnessing them that they are in the presence of a god.
The reaction at Site-19 to such a portal opening, completely bypassing its defenses and alarms, would be a mix of sheer panic, confusion, and awe. The inability of the site's advanced systems to detect or respond would signal an unprecedented anomaly, triggering chaos among personnel and command alike.
Immediate Reactions:
Personnel Shock and Fear:
Researchers, guards, and staff would freeze in place, their conversations abruptly stopping as the portal materializes with its overwhelming presence. The visual grandeur and sheer scale of the portal, coupled with the sensation of reality bending and the harmonic resonance, would create an eerie and disorienting atmosphere. Some personnel might instinctively flee, believing this to be the start of a catastrophic containment breach or an apocalyptic event.
Technological Failure:
The portal's presence would disrupt electronics, causing monitors, lights, and other systems to flicker or outright fail. Communications would be disrupted, with radios and intercoms emitting static or faint distorted sounds, as if the portal were interfering with the very fabric of Site-19's technological infrastructure. Automated alarms and anomaly-detection systems would remain eerily silent, unable to comprehend or register the event, adding to the confusion.
Command Center Confusion:
The Site-19 command center would erupt into chaos as operators attempt to understand what just happened. Surveillance footage would show only static or bizarre visuals—fractals, distortions, or incomprehensible glimpses of alternate realities within the portal. Attempts to pinpoint its source or track its energy signature would return "UNKNOWN" or blank results. Command personnel, including the Site Director, would struggle to determine if this is an external attack, a new anomaly, or something else entirely.
Special Containment Procedures Ignored:
Containment teams stationed near SCPs would be torn between following protocol and abandoning their posts to investigate or escape the portal's presence. High-risk SCPs like SCP-682 and SCP-096 might show agitation, reacting to the portal's immense energy, causing further containment issues.
Psychological Impact:
Existential Dread: Personnel, particularly junior researchers and guards, would feel a profound sense of insignificance and existential dread. The portal's infinite depth and fractal beauty would challenge their perception of reality, leaving some in awe and others trembling in fear.
Worship and Submission: Certain staff might instinctively bow or kneel, overwhelmed by the portal's divine aura and the sensation of being in the presence of something far beyond their comprehension.
Uncertainty and Anxiety: Others would question whether this event signals an End-of-the-World Scenario, as the portal's nature would feel beyond even the SCP Foundation's scope of understanding or control.
Foundation Response:
O5 Council Notification:
Within minutes, the O5 Council would be informed of the portal's sudden appearance. Their immediate reaction would be a mix of concern and frustration over the site's failure to detect or prevent such an intrusion. Some members might speculate that this event is related to SCP-9743 (A'malther), given his recent developments and growing power.
MTF Deployment:
Several Mobile Task Forces (MTFs), including Epsilon-11 ("Nine-Tailed Fox"), would be placed on high alert, though they would hesitate to approach the portal directly without orders. Heavily armed MTF units would establish a perimeter, their weapons trained on the portal, despite knowing they would likely be ineffective.
Emergency Protocols Initiated:
The site would declare an "Unexplained Anomaly Event" (UAE), with containment teams focusing on securing the most dangerous SCPs in case of a cascading breach scenario. Personnel would be ordered to evacuate or shelter in place, depending on proximity to the portal.
Contact Attempts:
Senior personnel or even Dr. Sophia Adler might attempt to communicate with the entity responsible for the portal, though the overwhelming presence and energy would make direct contact difficult.
What Would Happen When A'malther Emerges?
When A'malther steps through the portal, his appearance alone would silence any remaining noise in the site. His 10-foot frame, divine aura, and the raw power radiating from him would render most personnel paralyzed or kneeling, unable to process his presence.
Immediate Silence:
The portal's hum would fade, replaced by a deafening silence as A'malther surveys Site-19. His gaze alone would feel like it pierces through everyone present, creating an unshakable sense of awe and vulnerability.
Submission and Awe:
Some personnel, particularly those already shaken by the portal, might drop to their knees instinctively, overwhelmed by his divine and commanding presence. Others would remain frozen, unable to speak or act, as if the sheer weight of his existence were pressing down on them.
Technological Anomalies:
As A'malther moves, electronics would either fail completely or inexplicably begin displaying strange symbols, fractals, or glimpses of alternate dimensions. Cameras and monitoring equipment would fail to properly capture his appearance, showing only distorted images or blank screens.
Foundation Leadership Response:
Senior staff and command personnel would recognize A'malther and struggle to react appropriately. Some might attempt diplomacy, while others might quietly contact the O5 Council, seeking guidance on how to proceed.
Unpredictable SCP Reactions:
Certain SCPs in Site-19 might react violently or submissively to A'malther's presence, depending on their nature.
For example: SCP-682 might become agitated, sensing A'malther's immense power as a threat. SCP-999 might instinctively try to approach him, sensing the echoes of his past kindness. SCP-096 might cower in a corner, overwhelmed by his divine aura.
Summary of Site-19's Reaction:
The portal's sudden appearance would throw Site-19 into chaos, marked by fear, awe, and technological disruptions. A'malther's emergence would solidify his status as an entity far beyond the Foundation's control, leaving the site's personnel and leadership scrambling to adapt to the presence of a being who now embodies godhood itself. His arrival would force the Foundation to question its ability to contain or even coexist with such a being.
A'malther looked around, and even saluted politely everyone in the area.
The reaction of the personnel at Site-19 to A'malther's polite salutation would likely be a mix of shock, fear, and confusion. Here's how the scene might play out:
Site-19's Reaction:
1. Immediate Silence and Stunned Observations: The personnel present would freeze in place, their usual routines disrupted by the sheer presence of A'malther. His new form, combined with the impossibility of detecting his arrival, would send a wave of unease through the area. The faint aura of divinity emanating from him, along with the ominous elegance of his portal, would make his politeness even more unsettling.
2. Mixed Emotional Responses:
Guards and Security Personnel: Some instinctively reach for their weapons but hesitate, realizing that standard protocol and equipment would be useless against a being of his caliber. Others, particularly those aware of A'malther's previous interactions with the Foundation, may recognize him but struggle to reconcile his transformation with their prior knowledge.
Researchers and Scientists: Those in the vicinity might react with curiosity mingled with fear, attempting to document every detail of his appearance, actions, and demeanor. Some may quietly retreat or signal others for backup, even if they suspect it's futile.
Containment Specialists: Personnel assigned to SCP containment may brace for potential breaches, unsure whether A'malther's presence could destabilize anomalies within Site-19.
3. Foundation Alarms and Chaos: Despite the alarms failing to detect his portal initially, some systems could belatedly react to the presence of unquantifiable anomalous energy, leading to localized alerts across the facility. The Site Director or Incident Response Teams would likely be summoned, creating a rush of personnel moving toward the location of his arrival.
A'malther's Calm Demeanor and Polite Salutation:
As A'malther looks around and salutes politely, his gesture would add to the surreal nature of the moment:
Politeness in Contrast to Power: His calm and courteous demeanor, juxtaposed with his overwhelming presence, would confuse and unnerve the personnel. The gesture of a polite salute from a 10-foot-tall, radiant, godlike being would feel both disarming and intimidating.
Subtle Authority: Without raising his voice or displaying aggression, A'malther's mere presence would convey that he is fully in control of the situation, needing no force to assert dominance.
Personnel's Response to the Salutation: A small number of Foundation personnel may instinctively salute back, their training kicking in despite their fear. This could create an odd, almost comical moment amidst the tension. Others might look to their superiors or peers for guidance, unsure whether to treat him as an anomaly, a threat, or something entirely beyond their comprehension.
Site Command's Likely Reaction:
Containment Breach Protocol: Despite his calm demeanor, Site Command would likely treat A'malther's arrival as a containment breach of unprecedented scale. High-ranking personnel would scramble to assess the situation and determine the appropriate response.
O5 Council Involvement: The O5 Council would be alerted immediately, as A'malther's presence at Site-19 is a direct escalation of his interactions with the Foundation.
Dr. Sophia Adler: If present, Dr. Adler would likely attempt to mediate, using her knowledge of A'malther's personality and history to de-escalate any potential misunderstandings.
Potential Dialogue Snippets from the Scene:
Guard (to Command): "We have... something—someone—unidentified in the central corridor. He just... appeared. No alarms. No warning."
Researcher (whispering): "Is that... SCP-9743? No, that's impossible. He looks... different. Larger. More... divine."
Dr. Adler: (to A'malther, cautiously) "You've returned, I see. What brings you to Site-19 this time? Should we be... preparing for something?"
A'malther: "Hello again, Dr. Adler. I do see you quite well at the moment. Do tell me, during my absence, did any important event happen?"
Dr. Adler: (Visibly tense but maintaining her professionalism) "A'malther, your return is... unexpected, as always. Important events? Well, that depends on your perspective. The Foundation continues its work, as relentless as ever. But your absence has certainly left its mark—on personnel, on containment efforts, and... on certain anomalies."
Dr. Adler hesitates, as if gauging his reaction before continuing.
Dr. Adler: "I assume your... transformation is tied to your absence? You seem... changed."
A'malther: "I did quite a travel through where Scarlet King arrived, and from there, I did find my way, having to confront unique and different type of challenges until be fully ascended in the divine I am. Multiple trials of high difficulty of all sort of possible ways."
Dr. Adler: (Her eyes narrow slightly, both intrigued and wary) "Trials of all sorts, you say... I assume these challenges were not merely physical but tested the very core of your being. It certainly explains your... new form."
Dr. Adler glances briefly at his glowing eyes and the sheer intensity of his presence, her voice lowering slightly.
Dr. Adler: "And now that you've returned, fully ascended as you claim... what is it you seek, A'malther? To demonstrate your divinity? Or something... more?"
A'malther: "I did arrive for quit from your shoulders some weight. Do tell me, did you found useful anything from the gift bag? The one you should have received for the ceremony I did celebrate."
Dr. Adler: (She straightens slightly, caught off guard but maintaining her composure.) "The gift bag... Yes, I received it. Its contents were—unexpected, to say the least. Some items were... practical, others far more enigmatic. But I suspect you intended them to be more than simple tokens of generosity."
Her tone grows sharper, curiosity mingling with caution.
Dr. Adler: "Should I assume that each item holds a purpose beyond what is immediately apparent? Or are they merely reflections of your… unique perspective?"
A'malther: "It was with different things you had in your mind, as either in need or in desire. Depending what you wanted or needed, is what it was inside your gift bag."
Dr. Adler: (She nods slowly, considering his words.) "I see. Then it would seem your insight into us is far more profound than we may have anticipated. Though… such tailored gifts suggest more than observation—it suggests understanding, even intuition."
Her expression softens slightly, though her guarded nature remains.
Dr. Adler: "Tell me, A'malther, do you see these gestures as merely acts of kindness, or is there a deeper intention behind them? A way to align our paths with yours, perhaps?"
A'malther: "Maybe it does, but mainly, to preserve a more civilized and peaceful way."
Then, finally the O5 Council arrived, reacting speechless at seeing A'malther.
A'malther: "Greetings, O5 Council. I do still wonder why of such name, but remain respecting it. Do tell me, are you in any need of me?"
O5-1: (Recovering quickly from their initial shock, stepping forward as the others remain cautious.) "A'malther, your… transformation is striking, to say the least. We were not expecting your return in such a form, nor with such power."
They glance at the portal, its residual energy still faintly visible, before returning their gaze to him.
O5-1: "As for our need—need may not be the right word. Perhaps 'concern' is more appropriate. Your presence, unannounced and undetected, suggests capabilities we can no longer fully account for. Are we to interpret this visit as a gesture of goodwill, or is there something specific you seek from us?"
A'malther: "I do assume you could say so. I did come for quit some weight from your shoulders. I did come to take some SCPs, more in specific, those you have categorized as SCP-049, SCP-035, and SCP-076-2."
O5-1: (Their expression tightens, but they maintain a composed demeanor.) "A'malther, your intentions may indeed align with alleviating burdens from our shoulders, but the individuals you've named represent unique and delicate containment challenges. Each of them poses significant risks—not only to the Foundation but to humanity as a whole.
O5-1: "May we ask what purpose you have for them? Their release—especially in your hands—would require assurances that their containment, influence, and potential for destruction remain mitigated. After all, they are not merely burdens but responsibilities."
The rest of the O5 Council exchange wary glances, clearly on edge as they await A'malther's response.
A'malther: "Well, have them under my grip. After all, I thought as I should may need some 'fingers'. Scarlet King did have his daughters as generals for his army. And if I am similar to him, but following my own path, maybe I need my own way of generals, but instead of an army, more of specialized entities to assist me. I do think you reach my point."
O5-1: (Furrowing their brow, choosing their words carefully) "You propose to transform them into... extensions of your will, akin to the daughters of the Scarlet King, yet bound by your guidance. It is an intriguing proposition, though it raises questions regarding their loyalty, stability, and influence under your 'grip,' as you put it.
O5-1: "These entities—SCP-049, SCP-035, and SCP-076-2—are not merely tools. Each possesses unique complexities that could challenge even your control. For instance, SCP-035's manipulative nature, SCP-076-2's volatility, and SCP-049's... peculiar moral philosophy.
O5-1: "If your intention is to 'recruit' them, what guarantees can you provide to the Foundation that their potential for chaos and destruction will be constrained? And, if I may ask directly—are these individuals your final choices, or are there others you might consider?"
O5-4 interjects with a more skeptical tone
O5-4: "To put it bluntly, A'malther, how do we know this isn't the first step in forming your own regime? Your 'path' may differ from the Scarlet King's, but ambition, even in divine hands, is rarely without consequence."
A'malther: "That is something out of your concern. Do not worry... Your God is much more than capable of handling them for you... And... Are only my first option, but I do not know yet the best options to..."
Then, SCP-999 reaches through the MTF and personnel, as was brought time ago, but after the personnel encountering A'malther, they could not react, what left SCP-999 wondering, and be by itself.
A'malther noticing SCP-999, kneels against it, patting it gently. A'malther seems to not receive any effect from SCP-999, while SCP-999 seems to be more lovely from A'malther's pats and touch.
A'malther: "Oh, greetings."
SCP-999 wobbles happily, emitting its characteristic giggles, seemingly unaffected by the tension in the room. It nuzzles against A'malther's hand, radiating warmth and joy, as it does with most beings it interacts with.
O5-1: (Watching the interaction with measured curiosity) "Fascinating... SCP-999's empathic effects appear to have no noticeable influence on you, A'malther. Most individuals, anomalous or not, exhibit at least some form of elevated joy or relaxation in its presence."
O5-4: (Raising an eyebrow) "Or perhaps it's the other way around. SCP-999 seems unusually... drawn to him. Almost reverent, one might say. What do you make of this, A'malther? Does SCP-999's presence strike you as... useful for your plans?"
SCP-999 lets out another happy squelch, blissfully unaware of the gravity of the conversation, its gelatinous form wobbling with excitement at the attention it receives from A'malther.
A'malther: "... I did not have SCP-999 certainly in any plan, but... I do admit indeed I do find possessing a pet quite amusing. More if is as interesting as SCP-999 seems to be. Why? Perhaps, are you offering SCP-999 to me?"
The O5 Council exchanges cautious glances, the room thick with tension as they consider A'malther's question. SCP-999, still wobbling happily, remains blissfully unaware of the gravity of the moment, pressing itself gently against A'malther's leg like an affectionate pet.
O5-1: (Maintaining a neutral tone) "SCP-999 is not merely a pet, A'malther. It serves a significant purpose within the Foundation. Its empathic abilities have proven invaluable in containing certain high-risk anomalies and stabilizing personnel under duress. Relinquishing it would not be a decision we take lightly."
O5-4: (More analytical, gesturing slightly toward SCP-999) "However, its apparent affinity for you is... intriguing. If SCP-999 were to willingly remain in your presence, perhaps its role could extend beyond our walls. But such a decision would need to align with our containment protocols and the greater good."
O5-2: (Sharply, with a hint of skepticism) "Are you suggesting we offer SCP-999 to him, O5-4? Its loyalty and effectiveness here are unparalleled. We cannot afford to lose such an asset, especially not to an entity whose long-term intentions remain uncertain."
O5-1: (Maintaining composure, addressing the growing tension) "We cannot afford division on this matter. SCP-999 is unique, and while its presence here has undeniable value, we must also consider what it could mean for A'malther to take it under his... care. If SCP-999's influence can pacify even an entity of his magnitude, perhaps it serves a higher purpose with him than it does here."
O5-2: (Snapping back, firm and unyielding) "That is a dangerous assumption, O5-1. SCP-999 isn't some bargaining chip we hand over to anomalies, no matter how 'benevolent' they appear. It stabilizes countless staff and anomalies alike. What happens if we lose control of it? Or worse, if A'malther twists its purpose to suit his own?"
O5-4: (Calm but pointed, interjecting with measured logic) "And what if we refuse? A'malther has shown restraint and diplomacy thus far, but can we guarantee his patience is infinite? Losing SCP-999 would be a loss, yes, but alienating A'malther—an entity far more powerful than we can currently comprehend—could lead to far greater consequences. We should at least consider a trial period under his care."
O5-2: (Scoffs, shaking their head) "A trial period? You speak as if this is some kind of pet adoption process. Do you not see what is happening here? SCP-999 is more than a creature—it is a beacon of hope, a living embodiment of peace. It belongs here, where it can continue to do the most good."
O5-4: (Countering, voice rising slightly) "And you believe its impact is limited to these walls? SCP-999's potential influence on an entity like A'malther could ripple outward, affecting far more than just this site. Think beyond the immediate, O5-2. If it can temper him, guide him, then its purpose is greater than containment."
O5-2: (Turning sharply to O5-4) "And what happens if A'malther decides to weaponize that influence? To use SCP-999 as a tool to consolidate power or manipulate others? You gamble with forces we do not fully understand."
O5-1: (Raising a hand to quiet them both, voice steady but firm) "Enough. This is not the time for infighting. A'malther is watching, and so is SCP-999. We cannot appear divided before him—it only weakens our position. Let us... reconvene and discuss this rationally."
O5-2: (Crosses arms, hissing under their breath) "Rationality? We're standing in the shadow of a god who may or may not have our best interests at heart. Rationality feels like a luxury we can no longer afford."
O5-4: (Shooting a pointed glare at O5-2) "And yet, you forget that we've survived gods before. Scarlet King, Mekhane, Yaldabaoth. Do not let fear cloud your judgment."
O5-1: (Lowering their voice, eyes narrowing as they glance toward A'malther, who stands silently observing them) "We need consensus, or at least a united front. Anything less, and we risk pushing him toward a path we cannot control."
SCP-999, seemingly oblivious to the growing tension, lets out a happy gurgle and presses against A'malther's hand again, as though urging calm between the Council members. A'malther tilts his head slightly, his faint smile suggesting that he's well aware of the cracks forming in their unity.
A heavy silence falls as the Council members exchange wary glances, the weight of the decision pressing down on them like the very reality that bends at A'malther's will.
A'malther grabs SCP-999, and lets it be up of his left hand, while shows a O5 Council Keycard, the same once he was given time ago after a certain even the O5 Council seems to instantly remember. As that Keycard was one of the rewards, along a SCP unique uniform for him and SCP-105, and the containment room for both.
A'malther: "Pardon me for interrupt, but with your permission, I will go recruiting."
A'malther then opens a portal that appears very tiny and in front of O5-1, and drops a sort of business card. Then the portal closes.
A'malther: "If you keep splitting your believes, I do hope that can clarify your minds. I am your God, and if you ever need me, just 'pray' me, for call it somehow, or in more simple. Give me a touch as a call. Oh, and before I go on my own for recruitment. I do still have very well saved the SCP uniform you gave me. I do have to admit... I do have high appreciation on it. I may use it some day when you call me, and when you need me."
A'malther then turned around, and went on his way deeper in the Foundation and Floor 1, for recruitment of SCPs, as the ones he said, and maybe any other he finds useful.
The O5 Council stood frozen for a moment, the sudden display of A'malther's actions reverberating through the room like an unspoken challenge. The presence of the O5 keycard, a relic of trust and cooperation from long ago, sparked a flood of memories for each of the Council members. The decision they made back then—to grant A'malther limited access and privileges—now felt like both a triumph and a gamble that had yet to resolve.
O5-1: (Stoic, but their eyes betrayed unease as they picked up the strange business card A'malther had left behind. Turning it over in their hands, they examined it silently, the card seemingly normal yet imbued with an aura of significance.)
"... It seems he is far more prepared than we realized. And he still values our past gestures—something we cannot overlook."
O5-2: (Scowling, their voice cutting through the silence)
"Prepared? Or playing with us? That card may as well be a leash. He walks among us freely, uncontested, taking what he wants—and yet you continue to speak as though this is all in our control."
O5-4: (Remaining calm, addressing the group with measured logic)
"Control, no. Influence, perhaps. Did you not see the subtle gestures? The references to his uniform, his gratitude for the keycard? He could have taken what he wanted by force. Yet, he chose to remind us of his connection to us. That speaks volumes about his intentions."
O5-2: (Glaring, shaking their head)
"Or it's a game—a way to disarm us while he quietly dismantles our hold on containment. What happens if he recruits more? SCP-049? SCP-076-2? What about the ones we don't know he's after? We can't keep pretending we're in control."
O5-1: (Holding up the card, their voice firm yet thoughtful)
"That's where you're wrong, O5-2. As long as he respects this—" (gestures to the card) "—and the bond it represents, we do have control. He doesn't call it submission, but... in a way, it is. He's still acknowledging us, consulting us, even if indirectly."
O5-4: (Nods in agreement)
"Exactly. He doesn't need us, yet he still includes us. That gives us leverage—if we play our cards wisely."
Meanwhile, A'malther continued deeper into Site-19, his steps measured yet commanding. SCP-999, sitting contentedly on his left hand, gurgled happily, radiating warmth and light that seemed to react uniquely with A'malther's presence. The hallways were eerily quiet, personnel too stunned—or too afraid—to approach him, as his immense, radiant presence was almost suffocating.
The portal that had appeared before the O5 Council—tiny yet deliberate—was a testament to his newfound dominance. It had been just small enough to avoid being seen as a threat but bold enough to assert his superiority.
A'malther's thoughts were focused as he approached containment units for SCP-049, SCP-035, and SCP-076-2, recalling his earlier plans to "recruit fingers" to serve him in his divine vision. His mind flickered briefly to other SCPs he might consider—ones whose abilities or personalities could complement his plans for balance and order.
The Foundation's personnel, stationed at various points throughout the floor, remained frozen in place, unsure whether to intervene or let the self-proclaimed god pass freely. Some reached for radios to alert superiors, only to find their voices caught in their throats as A'malther's glowing gaze swept past them. His aura seemed to sap their courage, replacing it with an inexplicable awe.
In the distance, the containment chamber of SCP-049 loomed. A'malther's presence seemed to resonate, causing subtle vibrations in the air as though the anomalies within could already sense him approaching. SCP-035, from its distant chamber, seemed to stir faintly, its malevolent consciousness intrigued by the unmistakable power that now wandered the facility.
As A'malther prepared to address each SCP, one lingering thought echoed in his mind: This is just the beginning.