Chapter 51: Recruitment of SCP-076-2
After a big while, A'malther came back in Floor 3, after dealing with SCP-682 inside his voidful domain. He does still wear SCP-035, who seems now more different, more similar to A'malther visually, as if the more SCP-035 spends being used by A'malther, the more it becomes affected by A'malther.
Appearance of SCP-035 After Prolonged Use by A'malther
SCP-035, once a simple porcelain comedy mask with stark, contrasting features, has undergone a dramatic transformation after being worn by A'malther for an extended period. Its new appearance reflects both A'malther's divine essence and the gradual influence his power has exerted on the mask. The changes are as follows:
Material Composition: The porcelain surface of SCP-035 has shifted into a lustrous obsidian-like material, appearing as though it is made of polished, semi-transparent black glass. This surface glimmers faintly with streaks of iridescent colors that shift between deep blues, purples, and reds—the hues mirroring the cosmic energy emanating from A'malther. Thin, vein-like patterns of glowing gold and white trace across its surface, mimicking the fractal design of A'malther's divine markings. These veins pulse faintly in sync with his presence, giving the mask an almost organic appearance.
Facial Expression: The mask's once fixed "comedy" expression has evolved. It now appears as a hybrid of comedy and tragedy, depending on the angle from which it is viewed. The features are more refined, almost regal, with an enigmatic smile that radiates both charm and intimidation. The eyes have become deeper sockets, glowing faintly with a soft purple-blue light that seems to follow the gaze of anyone who looks at it.
Aura and Presence: SCP-035 now radiates an aura of undeniable power, mirroring A'malther's overwhelming divine energy. This aura projects feelings of awe and fear simultaneously, influencing those in proximity to regard it as an object of reverence rather than terror. Observers describe an almost magnetic pull toward the mask, as though it demands attention. The mask's aura, however, feels less hostile than before—its malevolent influence subdued and reshaped by A'malther's will.
New Features or Effects:
Eyes of Infinity:
The mask's eyeholes now seem to contain an endless void filled with faintly glowing constellations, as if looking into them provides a glimpse into the vast multiverse A'malther now embodies. Staring into these eyes for too long induces visions of alternate realities and timelines, a potential side effect of its connection to A'malther's knowledge and power.
Reactive Energy Patterns:
When worn, the glowing veins on the mask extend onto A'malther's body, synchronizing with his divine markings. The mask itself appears to "breathe" with life, subtly shifting in texture and brightness as it reacts to A'malther's emotions or the environment.
Voice Modulation:
SCP-035's voice, when it speaks, has taken on an ethereal quality. It echoes with overlapping tones—its original sarcastic and charismatic inflection now layered with a deep, resonating cadence that mirrors A'malther's divine speech. Together, their voices intertwine, creating an overwhelming sense of authority when they address others.
Symbolism: The mask now embodies the fusion of SCP-035's cunning and manipulative nature with A'malther's divine ambition and unrelenting will. Its transformation reflects how even a malevolent anomaly like SCP-035 can be reshaped by A'malther's essence, aligning it with his vision and purpose.
This new form of SCP-035 signifies not just an evolution of the mask itself, but a testament to A'malther's growing dominion over all things—an anomaly becoming an extension of its wielder, rather than a mere tool. SCP-035 now represents an unparalleled blend of manipulation, strategy, and divine authority, serving as both a weapon and a symbol of A'malther's transformative influence.
After a long long walk, he found his way through until reaching SCP-076-2's containment chamber, entering without any doubt or hesitation.
A'malther: "Greetings, my dear proud warrior."
SCP-076-2 immediately reacts with heightened alertness, his battle instincts triggered by the sheer presence of A'malther. Recognizing the overwhelming power before him, SCP-076-2 would take a moment to gauge A'malther's intentions, his pride and warrior nature compelling him to prepare for a potential challenge rather than submission. A tense, respectful curiosity would fill the air, as SCP-076-2 would see A'malther as both a threat and an opportunity for battle.
A'malther: "I do hope I did arrive in a moment where you do possess a positive situation."
SCP-076-2 stands tall, gripping his weapon with restrained anticipation, his voice carrying a tone of measured respect but tinged with prideful defiance. He would neither confirm nor deny his situation, instead keeping his focus entirely on A'malther, ready to gauge whether this meeting would lead to combat, alliance, or something in between.
A'malther: "My dear warrior, may I be possibly able in taking a moment of your so valuable time? No unnecessary fighting, unless you do decide to practice with me, or have a match with me. I did arrive at you with a simple proposition, but I do know as I am well aware of your preference of battle and fights."
SCP-076-2 narrows his eyes slightly, his grip tightening on his weapon as a faint smirk crept across his face. Without lowering his guard, he would give a short nod, silently signaling his willingness to hear A'malther's proposition—while subtly indicating that his preference for action over words would ultimately dictate how this interaction unfolded.
A'malther: "I did arrive to propose you a clear deal. Become my specialized entity in combat and offensive. And you will obtain in exchange the benefit of a self room, much better and personalized as your own will, along your... Reviver... For address at it somehow... But also access to my gym inside my voidful domain, where I do train with high intensity. I do think a proud warrior like you, for sure would appreciate this unique opportunity."
SCP-076-2's expression shifted slightly, a mix of curiosity and skepticism. While the mention of a personalized room and a high-intensity gym might appeal to his pride and desire for strength, the concept of "serving" under anyone—even a powerful entity like A'malther—would conflict with his fiercely independent nature. After a moment of silence, he would offer a low, almost dismissive laugh, clearly intrigued but not fully convinced. His stance would remain ready, as if challenging A'malther to prove his worth through action rather than words.
A'malther: "I do see... I do guess I can not deny you a match. After all, I must know if you are doing good progress or not. I can not let my proud warrior as a simple weak soldier, after all."
Then, the fight begun, but as quickly as it started, as quickly it ended. A'malther at first did let SCP-076-2 attack, as giving it a turn, then, after it was done, A'malther did took a turn himself, easily blowing into pieces SCP-076-2, who then revived and got back inside SCP-076-1. After multiple deaths, A'malther followed SCP-076-2 in the fight, to make it appear as he was fighting with interest, not wanting to let SCP-076-2 down, or make the fight boring, but interesting and amusing for SCP-076-2.
This encounter would be noted by SCP-076-2's Research Team as one of the most unique interactions the anomaly has ever had. The repeated deaths and revivals during the fight would reflect SCP-076-2's enjoyment of the challenge, despite being vastly outmatched. SCP-076-2 would likely begin to view A'malther not as a rival, but as an entity worthy of respect, potentially influencing his decision to accept the deal.
SCP-076-2's Reaction to A'malther: Despite initial skepticism, SCP-076-2 engaged willingly in combat, expressing visible signs of thrill and satisfaction from the repeated challenges.
A'malther's Combat Style: The way A'malther adapted to SCP-076-2's style, allowing him to feel valued as a warrior, demonstrated a calculated effort to appeal to SCP-076-2's pride and need for a worthy opponent.
SCP-076-2's Decision: By the end of the encounter, SCP-076-2 seemed more inclined toward the deal, swayed by A'malther's overwhelming power and the implied respect shown through the fight's intensity and entertainment value.
The O5 Council, upon receiving the report, would discuss how A'malther managed to leverage SCP-076-2's personality effectively. While they might still express concerns about A'malther's growing influence, they would acknowledge his tactical acumen in recruiting one of the most volatile SCPs. Their comments would highlight both the risks and potential benefits of such an alliance.
After a moment, A'malther opened a portal, and grabbed SCP-076-1, and then both A'malther and SCP-076-2 went inside. The portal closing behind A'malther as he entered after SCP-076-2.
Interaction Report: A'malther and SCP-076-2
Prepared by SCP-076 Research Team
Summary of Interaction:
A'malther entered SCP-076-2's containment chamber without resistance, using his O5 Keycard. He engaged SCP-076-2 in conversation, proposing a deal to recruit him as a specialized combat entity within A'malther's growing retinue. The deal included several perks: a personalized room in A'malther's voidful domain, access to advanced training facilities, and the promise of continual challenges to test SCP-076-2's combat prowess.
SCP-076-2, initially skeptical, requested a match to evaluate A'malther's worthiness. The fight began, with A'malther allowing SCP-076-2 the first move. Despite SCP-076-2's ferocity, A'malther overpowered him repeatedly, displaying immense strength and adaptability. Each time SCP-076-2 was defeated and revived within SCP-076-1, A'malther followed, maintaining the fight and ensuring it remained engaging for SCP-076-2.
By the end of the encounter, SCP-076-2 seemed satisfied, demonstrating a level of respect and acknowledgment of A'malther's superiority. A'malther then opened a portal, lifting SCP-076-1 entirely, and invited SCP-076-2 to join him. Both entered the portal, which closed behind them, leaving SCP-076-2's containment chamber empty.
Notable Observations:
Behavioral Shift in SCP-076-2:
SCP-076-2 displayed enthusiasm for the combat, a rare emotional response in the anomaly. The fight served as both a test of strength and a symbolic acknowledgment of SCP-076-2's pride as a warrior. His agreement to join A'malther indicates that he views A'malther as a worthy leader, suggesting a potential shift in SCP-076-2's motivations and priorities.
A'malther's Recruitment Tactics:
A'malther used psychological insight to appeal to SCP-076-2's core traits: his desire for challenge, respect, and purpose. By framing the deal as an opportunity for improvement and consistent combat, A'malther aligned his offer with SCP-076-2's intrinsic values.
Removal of SCP-076-1:
A'malther's decision to physically remove SCP-076-1 is unprecedented. This could signify his intention to integrate SCP-076-2 into his domain fully, severing the anomaly's connection to the Foundation entirely. The implications of this act are substantial, as SCP-076-1 has historically been integral to containing SCP-076-2.
O5 Council Comments:
O5-1: "A'malther's ability to recruit SCP-076-2 highlights his growing influence. SCP-076-2, one of the most uncontrollable anomalies in our care, willingly submitted to A'malther. This development raises critical concerns about A'malther's intentions and the potential consequences of SCP-076-2 acting outside Foundation oversight."
O5-2: "This is more than recruitment—it's a symbolic statement. A'malther is effectively consolidating power by assembling some of the most dangerous SCPs. While SCP-076-2's absence reduces the immediate threat within the Foundation, the long-term risks of him operating under A'malther's command cannot be overstated."
O5-4: "The removal of SCP-076-1 is concerning. It suggests A'malther intends to completely recontextualize SCP-076-2's existence, possibly freeing him from the limitations we imposed. We must monitor how this affects SCP-076-2's behavior and whether A'malther's control is as complete as it seems."
O5-7: "Let's not ignore the potential advantage here. A'malther has essentially neutralized SCP-076-2 as a threat to the Foundation—for now. If we can maintain a semblance of diplomacy with him, this arrangement might reduce the risk SCP-076-2 poses to containment operations."
O5-6: "Neutralization isn't the point—control is. If A'malther can remove anomalies from our containment, he poses a direct challenge to the Foundation's authority. This interaction proves he views himself as above us, which could destabilize the entire containment structure we've built."
O5-3: "On the surface, this looks like a loss of control. But A'malther's recruitment of SCP-076-2 reveals his strategy: he's not just collecting anomalies; he's constructing a framework of order under his rule. This isn't chaos—it's methodical. Whether that's reassuring or terrifying depends on your perspective."
O5-5: "We need contingencies. SCP-076-2 was a critical anomaly, and now it's out of our hands. If A'malther continues this pattern, it could compromise our ability to contain other SCPs. Diplomatic relations must remain intact, but we must prepare for escalation."
Conclusion:
The recruitment of SCP-076-2 represents a pivotal moment in A'malther's growing influence over anomalies. While this interaction temporarily reduces the containment burden on the Foundation, it also underscores the risks of A'malther's autonomy and ambition. The O5 Council has called for increased surveillance of his actions and the development of contingency plans to address potential escalations.