Chapter 9: "Behind the Scenes"
The black car glided silently along the winding road, the city lights gradually fading in the rearview mirror. Léonard, sitting in the back, was lost in thought, still reeling from the events of the previous night. His fatigue was evident as he stared out at the passing landscape. The two SCP Foundation agents, Agent Berthier driving and Agent Moreau sitting beside him, remained vigilant, their presence both reassuring and intimidating.
Agent Berthier glanced in the rearview mirror and broke the silence in the car:
— "Administrator, before entering the site, we need to provide you with some security equipment. You will receive a protective mask and a Level 6 access card. These tools are essential for ensuring your safety and maintaining the confidentiality of your identity."
He handed Léonard a mask shaped like a Joker, decorated with sinister yet refined patterns. Léonard inspected it carefully. The mask was designed to cover his entire face, with openings for the eyes and mouth, giving it a look that was both menacing and sophisticated.
Agent Moreau added:
— "The mask not only protects your identity but also ensures compliance with the Foundation's security protocols. Only individuals with proper clearance can see your face or know your true identity."
She handed him a plastic access card from a briefcase. The card bore the SCP Foundation logo and was clearly marked: "Level 6 Clearance – Omni."
— "This card will allow you to access sensitive areas of the site and navigate freely within the facility," explained Agent Moreau. "You will also have the ability to review classified files and manage resources within Site-35."
Léonard nodded, taking note of these crucial instructions. The vehicle turned onto a narrower road, leading to a large, locked metal gate. The agents performed the necessary checks to gain entry. Once inside, the vehicle entered a long tunnel leading to a reception area.
Upon arrival, after completing the security checks, Léonard was greeted by the Director of Site-35, Mr. Lefebvre. In his late forties, Lefebvre was impeccably dressed in a dark suit, his upright posture exuding quiet authority. He stood behind his massive desk to welcome Léonard.
— "Welcome to Site-35, Administrator," said Lefebvre, shaking his hand firmly. "I'm Director Lefebvre. We're thrilled to have you with us. Allow me to give you a full tour of our facility."
Director Lefebvre led Léonard, accompanied by Agents Berthier and Moreau, through the various sectors of the site. They began with the containment cells, where Léonard could observe the different specimens captured during the Delta-4 mission. The cells were designed to securely contain anomalies, equipped with sophisticated equipment and advanced surveillance systems.
— "We currently have the specimens from the Delta-4 mission in containment," Lefebvre explained. "The SCP-939 entities you captured are housed in cells specifically designed to hold anomalies of their kind. Each cell is equipped with security systems to prevent any escape or contamination."
Léonard observed the cells, noting the advanced security features. The walls of each cell were reinforced, and surveillance monitors displayed real-time footage of the captured SCPs.
They then moved on to the research laboratories. Lefebvre explained that these labs were essential for analyzing anomalies, studying their properties, and developing improved containment methods.
— "Our labs are equipped to conduct extensive research on SCPs," said Lefebvre. "Researchers use specialized equipment to analyze anomalies, test new technologies, and develop security protocols."
Léonard observed the various pieces of lab equipment, some appearing almost futuristic in their complexity. The researchers, deeply focused on their work, barely noticed the ongoing tour.
The visit continued to the equipment storage area, where Léonard saw a variety of vehicles and weaponry, including APCs, transport trucks, and attack helicopters. The vehicles were carefully stored, ready to be deployed for missions as needed.
— "The vehicles you see are used for interventions and the transport of teams and equipment," Lefebvre explained. "We also have attack and transport helicopters for larger-scale missions."
Finally, they arrived at Director Lefebvre's office. Léonard was invited to sit down as Lefebvre settled behind his desk.
— "Now that you've had an overview of our facility, I'd like to discuss how you can use the SCP Foundation's Management System to optimize your operations," Lefebvre began, opening a folder containing documents on the site and management protocols.
Agents Berthier and Moreau stood back, allowing the Director and Léonard to discuss the specifics of site management. They covered topics such as resource allocation, research priorities, and security protocols. Lefebvre laid out various options for improving site management and maximizing operational efficiency.
— "You will have access to a range of tools and resources via the system," Lefebvre explained. "This includes the ability to order new equipment, recruit specialized units, and upgrade existing facilities. I recommend exploring these options to strengthen your operational capabilities."
Though tired, Léonard listened intently, absorbing the crucial information about his new responsibilities. He became increasingly aware of the importance of his role within the SCP Foundation.
The meeting concluded with a discussion of the next steps and actions to be taken. Lefebvre assured Léonard of his continued support and wished him the best of luck in his new duties.
— "Don't hesitate to contact me if you need anything," Lefebvre concluded. "We're here to help you succeed in this crucial mission."
Léonard left the Director's office, accompanied by Agents Berthier and Moreau. As they exited the site, he reflected on the responsibilities awaiting him and the challenges ahead. The tour of Site-35 had given him a glimpse of the scale and complexity of the SCP Foundation's operations. With his new knowledge and resources, he felt ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.
The car was waiting outside, ready to take him back to his daily reality. Léonard knew his life had changed irreversibly, but he was determined to succeed in this new role, with the support of the SCP Foundation and the resources at his disposal.