Chapter 24: The Aftermath
The night had been long, and the burden on Léonard's shoulders felt heavier than ever. As he sat in his room chair, the quiet hum of the system interface before him, he took a deep breath and awaited the incoming reports. The battle in Paris had been devastating, but the tide had turned in their favor, and now it was time to take stock of the situation.
One by one, the reports began to trickle in. Each transmission carried the weight of relief and exhaustion.
"Overlord, this is Mu-12. All operatives accounted for. SCP-035 has been successfully transferred to Site-17. The anomaly is contained. Awaiting further instructions."
Léonard let out a small breath of relief. One of the most dangerous threats had been neutralized, and now, locked away safely in Site-17, it would no longer be able to wreak havoc. At least, not for now.
"Overlord, all MTF units and Agents Teams have successfully retracted from the field. No further threats detected. Paris is secure. SCP-035 and all related corruptions have been neutralized."
Again, Léonard found himself feeling lighter. The chaos that had engulfed Paris was finally under control. The world could breathe a little easier.
Just as the final reports were filed and the tension in his shoulders began to ease, a sudden notification flashed before his eyes—one that he had been both anticipating and dreading.
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[ Ding ! Congratulations, host. You have successfully put an end to the chaos in Paris.
Mission Completed: Secure Paris from SCP-035 and eliminate corrupted forces.
Rewards: 50,000 Gold ]
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The glow of the reward brought a faint smile to Léonard's face. It was a well-earned victory, and the system's acknowledgment was more than just a pat on the back. It was a step toward securing their future.
But then, before he could fully process the reward, another notification buzzed on the interface. This one was different—longer, more detailed.
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[Ding ! Update has been completed
The following new features are now available to the host:
- Departments DIrectors: Advanced leadership roles are now available to help streamline and manage operations more efficiently. Assign Directors to key departments and enhance organizational control.
- New Advanced Units: Unlock stronger and more specialized personnel with enhanced capabilities to handle higher-level threats.
- Improved Weapons and Equipment: A new tier of weapons, armor, and tactical gear is now available for purchase and use. Your forces will now have access to cutting-edge technology.
- Enhanced Vehicles: Both ground and aerial vehicles are available for purchase. Naval units have also been unlocked, allowing for broader and more strategic deployments across various terrains.
- Talent Store: A new category has been unlocked in the system's shop. Exchange gold for unique talents and powers that will provide the host with distinct advantages in the field.
- Monthly Spin of Fortune: Each month, the host will be given the chance to spin the wheel of fortune for a random reward. Prizes range from monetary bonuses to unique items and abilities. ]
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[ System Change
Anomalies ranked below Yellow level will no longer be announced by the system and will appear more frequently. Stay vigilant. ]
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Léonard blinked at the sudden influx of information. The update was immense. The sheer scope of new resources at his disposal now had him both excited and overwhelmed. He had to think carefully about how to use these tools. With new powers came new responsibilities, and the stakes were only growing higher.
First, there was the reward of 50,000 gold. It wasn't enough to revolutionize everything, but it was certainly a hefty sum that could jumpstart the next phase of his operations. But the Talent Store? The monthly Spin of Fortune? These were completely new concepts to him.
"Interesting," he muttered under his breath as he navigated to the Talent Store.
But the system wasn't done yet. The final notification was perhaps the most concerning.
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[System Notification]
*Host, anomalies below Yellow level will no longer be announced. These will now appear more frequently across the globe. The increased activity may provide greater opportunities for gold acquisition and talent growth but also comes with increased risks.*
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Léonard's fingers tapped on the edge of the console as he absorbed the information. He would need to adapt quickly. With the system no longer announcing the lower-level anomalies, it would fall upon his teams to maintain heightened vigilance and deal with these threats on the fly.
Yet, despite the mounting pressure, Léonard felt something close to exhilaration. He was playing a new game now—a more dangerous game, yes, but also one with greater rewards.
With a final glance over the notifications, he closed the interface and leaned back in his chair. His thoughts wandered to the future. He had a week before the rendezvous at the Palais de l'Élysée. A week to rest, rebuild, and prepare for the inevitable challenges to come.
But for now, Paris was secure. SCP-035 was no longer a threat. And Léonard had new tools at his disposal to keep it that way.
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Léonard woke up a few hours later, feeling refreshed and eager to explore the new updates provided by the system. After a quick breakfast, he returned to his study, excited to delve into the details of the new features now available.
He sat down at his desk, powered up his computer, and accessed the system interface. The previously received notifications reappeared on the screen, confirming the completion of the mission and the update.
Léonard clicked on the notification and began to explore the new options with enthusiasm.
The first thing that caught his eye was the list of available Department Directors. The system had introduced several new positions, each offering specialized expertise:
- Director of Tactical Operations for 65,000 Gold: This role would oversee field operations with enhanced efficiency, providing strategic management of missions.
- Director of Intelligence for 75,000 Gold: Specializing in information gathering and analysis, this role would be crucial for anticipating threats and optimizing strategies.
- Director of Research and Development for 85,000 Or: Responsible for innovation and improvement of technologies used, this director would add value to the Foundation's technological capabilities.
- Director of Logistics for 95,000 Or: This position would manage resources, supplies, and transportation, ensuring operational fluidity.
Léonard noted that the prices for directors were higher, reflecting their strategic importance.
Next, he examined the list of new individual units. These additions promised to bring specialized skills to field teams:
- Combat Engineer for 1,500 Or: A specialist in repairs and modifications of equipment in combat situations, essential for keeping gear in optimal working condition.
- Field Medic for 1,200 Or: An expert in emergency medical care, crucial for providing on-the-spot medical assistance during operations.
- Communications Specialist for 1,800 Or: Responsible for ensuring secure and efficient communication between teams, vital for coordination and operational success.
- Tactical Analyst for 1,600 Or: Provides real-time tactical analysis and decision support, helping teams adapt to evolving situations on the ground.
- Naval Sailor - 1,800 Or: Trained in general shipboard operations, navigation, and onboard security.
- Naval Gunner - 1,800 Or: Specialist in operating and maintaining naval artillery.
- Boatswain - 1,800 Or: Skilled in the maintenance and operation of smaller naval craft and boats.
- Combat Diver - 2,000 Or: Expert in underwater operations and combat scenarios.
- Pilot - 1,800 Or: Experienced in operating a range of aircraft, including fighter jets and transport planes.
- Helicopter Pilot - 1,800 Or: Specialist in flying and maneuvering helicopters for various missions.
For weapons and equipment, the new additions included:
- Advanced Combat Rifle for 1,000 Or: A state-of-the-art rifle with enhanced accuracy and range, suitable for various combat scenarios.
- Modular Tactical Armor for 3,500 Or: Provides enhanced protection and adaptability for different mission requirements.
For vehicles, the update included:
- Airborne Reconnaissance Helicopter for 20,000 Or: Provides aerial support and surveillance capabilities, equipped with advanced sensors.
- Naval Assault Craft for 25,000 Or: Designed for operations in aquatic environments, offering both firepower and mobility.
- Main Battle Tank - 20,000 Or: Heavy armored vehicle equipped with a powerful main gun.
- Self-Propelled Howitzer - 15,000 Or: Artillery vehicle with a large caliber cannon for long-range firepower.
- Fast Attack Boat - 8,000 Or: Swift and heavily armed boat designed for rapid strikes and coastal defense.
- Patrol Boat - 10,000 Or: Medium-sized boat designed for extended patrols and maritime security operations.
- Fighter Jet - 25,000 Or: High-speed aircraft designed for air superiority and ground attack.
- Transport Plane - 20,000 Or: Aircraft used for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies.
- Reconnaissance Drone - 12,000 Or: Unmanned aerial vehicle equipped for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Léonard was particularly excited about the new air and naval vehicles, which expanded the operational capabilities significantly.
Lastly, he discovered the new talent category available for him personally. This feature allowed him to spend gold to acquire various talents and powers, offering a range of enhancements to his abilities.
He explored these talents, which included:
- Enhanced Reflexes for 10,000 Or: Increases reaction speed and agility during combat.
- Strategic Mind for 12,000 Or: Provides improved tactical decision-making and planning capabilities.
- Field Medic Training for 8,000 Or: Grants advanced medical skills and quicker recovery times.
- Combat Expertise for 15,000 Or: Boosts proficiency with a wide range of weapons and combat techniques.
Language Proficiency Skills:
- Language Proficiency Level 1 for 8,000 Gold: Understanding of any spoken language in the world, allowing for communication and comprehension. This includes major languages like English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic, and many more, covering a wide array of global languages.
Finally, Léonard saw that a Lucky Wheel would spin monthly, offering a chance to win various rewards, adding an element of excitement and unpredictability to the system.
Léonard, still seated at his desk, felt a twinge of excitement as he glanced at the new "Wheel of Fortune" feature. He hovered his finger over the interface and selected the option to spin the wheel. The holographic display shimmered before him, transforming into a large, colorful wheel with various sections labeled with potential rewards: from gold, rare equipment, and specialized units, to high-level talents and upgrades.
He tapped the spin button, and the wheel began to rotate rapidly, colors blending into a blur as it spun faster and faster. He leaned forward, anticipation building as the wheel gradually slowed, each section now distinct again.
Finally, the wheel came to a halt, the pointer landing on a section gleaming in bright gold letters.
[ Ding! ]
Congratulations! You've unlocked Hero Unit: SCP-073 (Cain)
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Hero Unit: SCP-073 (Cain)
- Classification: Euclid-Class Anomalous Entity
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Background:
SCP-073, known as Cain, is a humanoid entity of apparent Middle Eastern descent. SCP-073 exhibits superhuman resilience and is incapable of dying. It is also incredibly knowledgeable, speaking numerous languages and possessing vast historical and cultural knowledge.
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Abilities:
1. Damage Reflection: Any physical harm done to Cain is reflected back upon the attacker, making him nearly impossible to harm directly.
2. Agricultural Nullification: Cain is able to destroy any form of plant life simply by touching it, which can be used strategically in certain environments.
3. Eidetic Memory: Cain possesses a perfect photographic memory, allowing him to recall every detail he has ever seen or experienced with absolute precision. This makes him invaluable for intelligence operations and strategic planning.
4. Linguistic Expertise: Cain has an exceptional grasp of numerous languages, making him a critical asset in diplomatic and cross-cultural situations.
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Léonard checked the location of SCP-073 and confirmed that it was currently stationed at Site-17.
Léonard's phone rang, displaying the call from O5-4. He answered promptly.
"Good evening, O5-4. How are you ?" Léonard asked, starting the conversation with a note of camaraderie.
O5-4 responded in kind, "Evening, Boss. I'm well, thank you. I trust all is in order?"
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Léonard shifted the discussion to the recent events in Paris. "Indeed, all is well. I wanted to inform you about the recent updates to our system. We've received new options for equipment, units, and talents. I could use your guidance on what would be the best investments given our current situation."
O5-4's tone became more focused. "I see. The system updates are quite significant. For equipment, prioritize items that enhance our defensive and offensive capabilities. For units, consider those that offer strategic advantages in both urban and field environments. And for talents, choose those that enhance leadership and operational efficiency."
Léonard nodded, jotting down the advice. "Understood. I'll proceed accordingly. Thank you for your input, O5-4."
"Of course," O5-4 replied. "Keep me informed of any further developments. Good luck."
The call ended, leaving Léonard to reflect on the guidance and make decisions on the next steps for the Foundation's resources.
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In the crisis room of the Palais de l'Élysée, a tense atmosphere prevailed as high-ranking officials gathered for an urgent briefing. The room was lined with large monitors displaying live feeds from Paris and a detailed map marked with various indicators. The President, several ministers, and military generals sat around a central table, while the Director of the DGSI stood at the front, preparing to present her findings.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the Director began, her voice steady despite the gravity of the situation, "we are dealing with a complex and evolving crisis. Our initial reports revealed a significant loss of communication with approximately one hundred patrol units across Paris. These units suddenly turned hostile, attacking checkpoints and patrols. This unexpected shift in behavior was compounded by the use of disguises, making it challenging to distinguish between friendly and enemy forces."
The Director switched to a screen showing chaotic footage from Paris. Patrol units were shown under attack, with visible damage and disorder in the streets. "The situation became critical near Notre-Dame Cathedral, where our monitoring systems identified a substantial deployment of "RAID" units. These units quickly established a security perimeter around the cathedral to manage the immediate threat."
She then clicked to a new image of Place de la Concorde, which showed a large deployment of "RAID" units. "As the attacks continued, "RAID" units sent a squad to reinforce Place de la Concorde. They secured the area and set up a defensive perimeter. Shortly afterward, our radar detected a fleet of transport helicopters arriving at the site. These helicopters deployed additional armed units, who then spread throughout the area."
The screen displayed a map highlighting the 1st and 4th Arrondissements of Paris. "With the situation under control at Place de la Concorde, "RAID" units expanded their operations into the 1st and 4th Arrondissements. They conducted a systematic sweep to engage remaining hostile forces while protecting civilians. They also secured key locations and helped evacuate people from dangerous areas."
The Director's presentation included footage of "RAID" units in action, aiding civilians and managing crisis situations. "An important development was the establishment of a temporary command center at the Pompidou Center. This center was crucial for coordinating operations and directing efforts across the city."
A slide showed the GAO's involvement in the situation. "Upon receiving updated intelligence, I deployed the GAO to establish contact with "RAID" forces. The GAO was escorted to the Pompidou Center, where they met with "RAID" commanders to coordinate efforts."
A minister, clearly frustrated, interrupted with a pressing question. "Why didn't we identify these units sooner? The situation escalated rapidly."
The Director responded with a controlled tone. "The confusion stemmed from the use of disguises and the rapid escalation of the situation. Once we obtained accurate intelligence, we were able to respond effectively."
The President, who had been listening intently, signaled for the Director to continue. "Please proceed with the final details."
The Director concluded her briefing. "The GAO and "RAID" commanders reached an agreement to combine their forces to address the remaining hostile elements. Their coordination was exemplary, leading to the resolution of several hostage situations. Following these actions, they withdrew their forces, having met their immediate objectives."
She presented the final note left by the Foundation's commander. "Before departing, the Foundation's commander left a note specifying a meeting scheduled for six days from now at 14:00 here at the Palais de l'Élysée. This meeting will involve representatives from both the Foundation and the government."
The President rose from his seat, his expression resolute. "This upcoming meeting is crucial. We must prepare thoroughly and ensure that all necessary preparations are made. Our collaboration with the Foundation has been essential, and we need to approach this meeting with the utmost seriousness."
The room buzzed with activity as officials began organizing the necessary arrangements. The President, along with key advisors, engaged in discussions about the logistics and strategic objectives for the upcoming meeting. The Director of the DGSI answered additional questions and provided further clarifications as needed.
As the briefing concluded, the focus shifted to preparing for the important dialogue with the Foundation. The officials recognized the significance of the upcoming meeting and the need for a unified and well-coordinated approach.