Chapter 95
Leonard observed the massive explosion consuming the Palais Garnier on the main screen, captured live by a Foundation drone. He stood in the communication room of Area-01, surrounded by Resh-1.
Leonard asked, "Situation report."
A technician responded, "A massive explosion occurred inside the Palais Garnier. A few minutes prior, we lost contact with Agent Rio Delarosa, who had managed to infiltrate the site after being separated from the 3rd detachment of JTF 'Zombie Hunter' due to an ambush."
Leonard continued, "Do we know how this explosion occurred?"
Another technician responded, "According to our preliminary analysis, it seems to have been caused by a gas leak. We believe the canisters containing SCP-008 were breached, and an explosion propagated through the gas, creating a chain reaction that resulted in the detonation we witnessed. Of course, this is just one plausible theory, but it appears to be the most credible."
Leonard furrowed his brow and replied, "I see. What's the response from O5-4-A regarding this… firework display?"
The same technician responded, "He ordered the Third Detachment to secure the perimeter around the Palais Garnier to conduct a search operation. The Second Detachment is advancing northward to secure Gare Saint-Lazare. Meanwhile, the First Detachment is moving toward Rond-Point Marcel Dassault, near the Champs-Élysées. Their objective is to reinforce a mixed unit consisting of a brigade from the Garde Républicaine, along with teams from His Majesty's Anomalous Service, the Gendastrerie, MI666, and PENTAGRAM."
Leonard replied, "Okay. Speaking of allies, what are the other GoIs up to?"
The technician answered, "GOC forces, who initially responded at La Défense, have crossed the Pont de Neuilly and secured Neuilly-sur-Seine. They've also established a zone south of the Bois de Boulogne to cover the evacuation area at ParisLongchamp. They are conducting a cleansing operation in Boulogne-Billancourt while waiting for the French Army forces, which are approaching rapidly.
The French Army has carried out several parachute operations to reinforce key strategic zones and prevent the infected from leaving Paris. The first wave of GOC reinforcements has arrived at Le Bourget Airport, accompanied by RCMP OSA Task Force, the UIU, and several battalions from the French Foreign Legion and regular army units.
The Order of Light and the Horizon Initiative have disguised themselves as humanitarian organizations, treating survivors. They're also helping to identify virus carriers among the refugees and eliminating them.
Meanwhile, ZM 'Witch Hunter,' the Mages Academy, and the Serpent Hand are engaged in underground combat throughout Paris' catacombs and sewer networks."
Leonard asked, "How are they progressing?"
The technician replied, "It's a massacre. On one side, the opposition forces are being annihilated by the combined might of ZM, TSH, and TMG."
Leonard let out a deep sigh. "Good to know." He then noticed a notification system flicker to life before his eyes. A glowing curtain of text materialized:
[Ding! You have 0 days, 0 hours, 9 minutes, and 54 seconds remaining before the start of the tribulation. Please prepare yourself.]
Leonard exhaled heavily and turned to Alexei. "Put all of Resh-1 on maximum alert. I'm ordering Omega-7 and Alpha-6 to prepare for immediate deployment. My tribulation begins in ten minutes."
Alexei snapped to attention. "Understood." He barked the orders into his radio, and within moments, alarms echoed across the entirety of Area-01. Leonard rose from his seat, flanked by Alexei and another Resh-1 operative, and strode purposefully toward the armory.
The atmosphere in the armory was charged. Resh-1 operatives were hastily equipping themselves for combat, the clatter of gear and the hum of tension filling the air. Leonard opened a locker, pulling out the same uniform as Resh-1, but leaving aside the helmet and balaclava.
Fully suited, he approached the armorer, who stood at attention behind a counter brimming with weaponry. The man looked both nervous and honored. "Good day, Administrator. This is the first time I've had the privilege of serving you. What can I provide?"
Leonard didn't waste time. "I need a lightweight, precise, and powerful automatic weapon."
The armorer repeated thoughtfully, "Lightweight… precise… powerful…" He tapped his chin before nodding firmly. "I believe I have exactly what you need." He disappeared into the depths of the armory, the sound of shifting metal echoing as he searched.
Moments later, he returned with a weapon cradled in his hands. He placed it down heavily on the table, the weight of its presence undeniable. "Here it is, the Heckler & Koch 416, commonly known as the HK416. A masterpiece of German engineering, perfect for any battlefield."
The armorer's voice took on a reverent tone as he began to explain its features, as if presenting a sacred relic. "The HK416 is a gas-operated, short-stroke piston-driven assault rifle, known for its reliability and adaptability. This particular model has been extensively modified for Foundation use. Its barrel is reinforced with an alloy that can withstand thaumaturgical feedback, making it resistant to spells and energy surges. The receiver is coated in an anti-anomalous compound that prevents corrosion from SCP-based phenomena."
He gestured to the attachments. "Equipped with an advanced holographic sight calibrated for both conventional and thaumaturgical targets, it ensures precision in the heat of battle. The under-barrel attachment is a plasma disruptor module, capable of neutralizing non-corporeal entities within a 10-meter radius."
The armorer picked up a magazine filled with glimmering rounds. "These are thaumikinetic munitions. Each round is embedded with micro-runes that channel energy bursts on impact, designed to destabilize and destroy both physical and metaphysical threats."
He leaned forward, his voice dropping slightly. "This weapon isn't just a rifle; it's a declaration of war against the anomalous. In your hands, Administrator, it will serve as both shield and sword."
Leonard inspected the rifle, his expression unreadable. After a moment, he nodded. "Perfect. Load it up."
"As you command, Administrator," the armorer said, saluting as he began preparing the weapon for immediate deployment. "Do you need anything else ?"
Leonard replied, "I need a reliable and efficient sidearm. What do you have in stock?"
The armorer grinned knowingly, disappearing into the depths of the armory. After a moment, he returned, carrying a sleek handgun with reverence. Placing it gently on the table, he began his presentation.
"Administrator, may I present the Glock 19 Gen 5, an icon of reliability and performance. But this is no ordinary Glock. Modified specifically for Foundation operatives, it has been enhanced to meet the demands of both conventional and anomalous combat."
The armorer gestured to the weapon's compact frame. "The Glock 19 Gen 5 is the perfect balance of size and power, making it ideal for both concealed carry and tactical engagements. Its modular design ensures adaptability for any mission. We've replaced the standard polymer frame with a reinforced, lightweight alloy treated with an anti-corrosive coating, resistant to anomalous degradation and extreme environmental conditions."
He pointed to the slide, which bore intricate engravings. "The slide is customized with an extended grip serration for easy manipulation, even under stress. It's fitted with a micro-reflex sight tuned for rapid target acquisition, whether you're aiming at mundane threats or entities far less tangible. The barrel has been swapped for a match-grade, high-tensile steel variant that supports enhanced accuracy and reduces recoil, perfect for controlled follow-up shots."
The armorer picked up the magazine, holding it between his fingers. "Here's where it gets even more interesting. These are hybrid rounds, developed exclusively by the Foundation. The core of each bullet is embedded with a thaumikinetic disruptor crystal, ensuring penetration through anomalous barriers and nullifying energy-based threats on impact. The outer jacket is bonded with tungsten for improved armor-piercing capabilities."
He pointed to the extended beavertail and enhanced grip texture. "The ergonomics have been refined for maximum control in high-stakes engagements. And lastly, the weapon is equipped with an integrated suppressor module, optimized to dampen not only sound but also any anomalous energy signature that could give away your position."
The armorer stepped back, letting Leonard inspect the weapon. "Administrator, this isn't just a sidearm—it's a companion designed to excel in every situation the Foundation faces. Whether against mundane enemies or the unknown, this Glock 19 Gen 5 will never let you down."
Leonard lifted the weapon, weighing it in his hand. After a moment, he nodded in approval. "Excellent. Prepare it for deployment."
The armorer saluted. "At once, Administrator."
The armorer hurried off to prepare everything. Leonard exhaled sharply, stepping out of the armory and walking briskly down the hall, flanked by the same two guards. He made his way to a containment chamber, the heavy reinforced door sliding open with a hiss. Inside, he approached a pedestal where an elegant lyre rested, SCP-4112.
Running his fingers along the instrument's smooth wooden surface, Leonard felt the weight of its anomalous presence. Without hesitation, he slipped the lyre into his bag, securing it carefully. Exiting the chamber, he broke into a swift stride toward his office. Before entering, he turned to Alexei.
"Gather all Resh-1 in the briefing room immediately."
Alexei gave a sharp salute. "Understood, sir." He relayed the orders through his radio, his voice carrying authority.
Leonard entered his office, the air heavy with the gravity of the moment. Moving to his desk, he opened a drawer and retrieved a crimson-bound book, SCP-066-DE. Its ancient pages seemed to hum faintly with latent thaumaturgical power. He set it on the desk, sank into his chair, and let out a weary sigh. "It's time… Damn it."
The glow of his computer screen lit up the room, interrupting his thoughts. An incoming call. Leonard clicked to accept, and the face of O5-4 appeared, his expression calm but tense.
"Boss, I see your tribulation begins in less than five minutes," O5-4 began. "I've prepared Omega-7 as requested, and I've assigned my personal forces alongside an Alpha-1 team to support your actions during the tribulation."
Leonard nodded, his voice steady. "Understood."
A brief silence hung between them, the weight of what lay ahead unspoken. Finally, O5-4 broke it. "Boss… Good luck. And be careful."
Leonard allowed himself a small smile. "Thank you, Four. I have to go."
O5-4 gave a resolute nod. "O5-4, out."
The screen dimmed as the call ended. Leonard sat back for a moment, staring at the crimson book and the faintly glowing bag that held the lyre. His fingers drummed the desk as he prepared himself for what was to come. Time was running out.
Leonard rose from his chair and strode out of his office, his boots echoing against the steel-lined floors of the corridor. Each step carried an air of finality, tension palpable as he approached the briefing room. Upon entering, the operators of Resh-1 immediately stood at attention, their unified voices reverberating through the room:
"Administrator!"
Leonard raised a hand, his tone firm yet composed. "At ease."
He moved to the front of the room, his sharp gaze sweeping across the faces of the assembled operators. Taking a deep breath, he began.
"Alright, I won't waste time with formalities. My tribulation begins in a matter of minutes, and we're about to face whatever monstrosities emerge from it. If we fail, it won't just be my life that's lost. The Foundation will fall, and with it, the entire world. Our survival is not the only thing at stake here. Today, we fight for the survival of humanity itself."
He paused, his voice growing stronger as he asked, "SCP Foundation, what is our duty?"
As one, the operators of Resh-1 rose to their feet, their voices like thunder:
"WE SECURE, WE CONTAIN, AND WE PROTECT UNTIL DEATH!"
A proud smile crossed Leonard's face as he nodded. "Well said. Thirty seconds. Everyone, get ready!"
Then Leonard began the countdown:
"20 seconds."
"10 seconds."
"5, 4, 3, 2, 1."
Suddenly, a system notification appeared before his eyes:
[Ding! The countdown for the host's tribulation is complete. Prepare to be teleported to the mission zone.]
Leonard shouted in disbelief, "Teleport? WHAT, NO!"
Before he could react, his body dematerialized before the eyes of all the operators. They roared, attempting to reach him, but it was too late. The Administrator had vanished. The operators of Resh-1 froze, shock washing over them.
Alexei clenched his teeth and shouted, "DAMN IT, THE BOSS IS GONE! CONTROL ROOM, TRIANGULATE HIS POSITION IMMEDIATELY! ALL RESH-1 UNITS, MOVE TO TUNNEL 6 TO ACCESS THE HELIPAD. MOVE OUT!"
Without hesitation, all of Resh-1 sprinted to execute Alexei's orders, their minds racing with concern for their leader.
Alexei clenched his fists, his voice low and filled with determination. "Boss, we're coming. I hope you're okay. I swear, we'll get you out of there safe and sound."
---
Thousands of kilometers from Area-01, Leonard materialized in a barren desert. He raised his weapon, muttering, "Goddamn, of course, I'm the only idiot who's going to fight alone without my team."
He scanned the area around him and spotted a gray figure. It was a man, curled up on the ground, crying. Leonard's blood froze when he recognized the entity, and he instantly turned his head, refusing to look any longer.
Suddenly, a photograph materialized before his hand, and his face paled at the sight of it. As soon as he saw the photo, the man in the image began to cry even louder and thrash violently. A system notification appeared before him:
[Ding! Your tribulation has begun.]
[Ding! You have seen the face of SCP-096, and now it will pursue you across the multiverse.]
[Ding! Tribulation objectives have been uploaded:
Primary objective:
- Survive for 24 hours
Secondary objective:
- Defeat SCP-096]
[The countdown has begun:
- 23h 59m 40s left]
Leonard muttered under his breath, "Oh shit."