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Chapter 39 - Divine ceremony - Opening

After a moment of A'malther accepting A'tellif submitting to him as her god, he teleported the O5 Council, A'tellif, A'habbat, SCP-9743 clone (Raziel), Dr. Sophia Adler, and himself, to SCP-914's containment chamber.

Once in the chamber of SCP-914, A'malther placed a syringe full of red liquid, and then placed 'Fine' in the settings. The results were a more brighter and lifelike red intensity color inside the syringe.

Then, A'habbat walked with intimate and seductive intentions inside the left chamber, while looking at A'malther. A'malther placed the settings to be at 'Very Fine', risking what could happen. The results were very visual, as A'habbat got out of the right chamber of SCP-914 as a slight taller, more seductive, more demonic, goddess version of herself. Her appearance pure red, with luxurious accessories as rubies as main jewelry in her goddess dress, and in her ceremony clothes. Her horns very similar to Scarlet King's. After getting out, she instantly went to A'malther, and placed herself embracing him in a slight seductive way, while he simply accepted it by placing his hands over her waist.

A'malther: "A'tellif, your turn."

A'tellif, without any doubt of hesitation, accepted her god's order, and went inside the left chamber, still with the 'Very Fine' settings, a high risk of threat was palpable. The situation for the Foundation seemed only worse and worse if A'malther goes against them, and yet, their only option was obey him, despite he was still polite, respectful, and talkative with kindness.

After SCP-914 finished, the results were a more Scarlet transparent A'tellif. Her skin was now redder than anything else, with horns similar to Scarlet King's, and her hands as sharp as daggers. Her body seemed to be as transparent as glass, and with the tone of a perfect camouflage.

A'malther grabbed A'habbat in his arms, and she instantly placed her arms and hands around his neck, starting to act seductive with her hands over his neck, while he remained focused. A'malther turned to look at the O5 Council and Dr. Adler.

A'malther: "Well, are you sure of yourselves of not accepting to assist in the ceremony? I will not force you, as is a simple invitation, but I just want to make myself clear if you will assist or not. If you do accept, well I will bring you with me to where the ceremony is already prepared and organized, ready for start. If you decide to not assist, once the ceremony is over, I will bring you the 'gift bags' as in some birthdays and in other celebrations of diverse things seems to give to the guests."

O5 Council's Answer:

The O5 Council remained deeply conflicted about A'malther's invitation to the ceremony. Their responses were cautious and calculated, reflecting the tension between their need to maintain diplomacy with A'malther and their unease regarding the growing power dynamics.

O5-1: "We must tread carefully. Accepting the invitation risks legitimizing A'malther's authority and further aligning the Foundation with his growing dominion. However, refusal could be seen as defiance, potentially jeopardizing our already precarious relationship. This is not a matter of trust but of necessity—we must weigh the long-term strategic advantage of participating."

O5-4: "If the ceremony provides insight into his intentions, his alliances, or his growing power, it may be worth attending. However, we must set strict protocols—this cannot be interpreted as submission or approval of his actions."

O5-6: "Attending is dangerous. The transformations he's orchestrating through SCP-914 signal that he's pushing boundaries we cannot yet fully comprehend. We risk entangling ourselves in his vision of 'divinity.' Refusal, however, could provoke a response. I recommend we proceed cautiously, but with the utmost preparation."

O5-7: "The ceremony is likely a power play. A'malther seeks to demonstrate his dominance and solidify his status as a deity among anomalies. While it may provide intelligence, we must approach this as observers, not participants. He must not think we are under his rule."

O5-2: "Ultimately, A'malther's offer to provide 'gift bags' to non-attendees suggests he does not view attendance as mandatory. While there is value in gathering intelligence, we should consider declining as a statement of independence while emphasizing our ongoing cooperation in other areas."

The Council ultimately resolved to split their decision: some members would attend as observers, while others would remain behind to monitor the situation and prepare contingencies.

Dr. Sophia Adler's Perspective:

Dr. Adler voiced significant concern, but her focus was less on the ceremony itself and more on A'malther's evolving behavior and the ripple effects it could have.

Dr. Adler: "A'malther's transformations of A'habbat and A'tellif are troubling. His influence over them is absolute, and his growing god complex is reinforced by their submission and glorification of him. His insistence on kindness, paired with his readiness to use SCP-914 recklessly, suggests he is walking a fine line between benevolence and tyranny.

"The ceremony itself may be less about celebration and more about symbolism—an assertion of his newfound divinity. I fear that his 'gift bags' may carry unintended consequences, depending on how he perceives our response to his invitation.

"I advise at least one of you attend to monitor his intentions closely. We must be cautious, but we cannot ignore the potential implications of his actions."

SCP-9743 Clone (Raziel)'s Response:

Raziel, the clone of SCP-9743, seemed visibly uneasy throughout the proceedings. While he retained his angelic kindness and empathic tendencies, he struggled to reconcile the A'malther standing before him with the memories of his former self.

Raziel: "I… I don't think I belong in a place like that, with a ceremony like that. That's not who I am. If this ceremony is about power or celebration, I don't want to be a part of it. But if… if there's a way I can help or bring peace, then maybe I should go."

His response reflected his pacifist nature, but he remained unsure of his role in the larger conflict. The O5 Council noted that Raziel's hesitance to participate stemmed from his inability to comprehend A'malther's transformation and intentions.

Final Thoughts of the O5 Council:

O5-1: "A'malther's invitation is both an opportunity and a trap. If we decline outright, we risk alienating him further. If we accept, we risk entrenching ourselves in his narrative. A split decision allows us to hedge our bets while retaining some measure of control."

O5-4: "The transformations of A'habbat and A'tellif signal that A'malther is not only consolidating power but also crafting an image of godhood. We must carefully assess his actions without becoming entangled in them."

O5-7: "Raziel's presence offers a faint glimmer of hope. If his kindness is genuine and untainted, he may yet serve as a counterbalance to A'malther's growing dominance. However, we cannot rely on him alone—his influence is too fragile."

The Council's strategy reflected a desire to maintain diplomacy while preparing for the growing threat posed by A'malther's rise to power.

O5 Members Attending:

O5-1:

As the de facto leader of the O5 Council, O5-1 would likely attend to maintain diplomacy and directly observe A'malther's actions and intentions. Their presence signals the Council's continued willingness to cooperate, albeit cautiously.

O5-4:

O5-4 has shown an analytical and adaptive nature, leaning toward calculated risk-taking. Attending the ceremony aligns with their interest in gathering intelligence and understanding A'malther's growing power dynamics firsthand.

O5-2:

As someone who prioritizes pragmatism and long-term strategy, O5-2 would attend to ensure the Council's interests are represented. They might also act as a counterbalance to O5-1's more diplomatic approach, ensuring a level-headed presence.

O5 Members Staying Behind:

O5-3:

O5-3 tends to focus on the philosophical and ethical implications of decisions. They might reject the ceremony outright as a symbolic gesture of the Council's independence from A'malther's growing influence.

O5-5:

With their skepticism of A'malther's intentions and concern for potential manipulation, O5-5 would remain behind to focus on preparing contingencies in case the situation worsens.

O5-6:

O5-6's cautious and militaristic nature would make them better suited to monitoring events from afar and ensuring that Foundation security remains intact during the ceremony.

O5-7:

As one of the most skeptical and combative members, O5-7 would likely refuse the invitation outright, preferring to remain focused on countermeasures and containment strategies.

Summary of Attendance:

Attending: O5-1, O5-2, O5-4.

Not Attending: O5-3, O5-5, O5-6, O5-7, Dr. Sophia Adler, Raziel.

This split ensures a balanced approach: those attending will observe and assess A'malther's ceremony directly, while those staying behind will focus on analyzing the implications and preparing for any potential fallout.

After a moment, A'malther placed down A'habbat and opened a portal, and O5-1, O5-2, and O5-4 followed inside, and then, the portal closed behind them. The O5 members observed how the place was very similar to a big lifelike meadow, with lot of flowers of different colors everywhere, and the sky very lifelike and with a clear vision of what the universe further beyond seems like, with shooting stars, planets and moons, and sparkle of stars everywhere.

The three O5 members keep following A'malther, while they see everything decorated for a marriage celebration, with white and red decorations, seats and chairs, tables, and even a path of red and yellow flowers to a platform of marriage.

O5-1 questions about what is the ceremony exactly, and A'malther responds telling him about the ceremony being for a marriage.

A'malther: "... Is for marriage. If I am honest with you... I did prepare this by how I know... The only way I know... I prepared everything by how any human wedding is. Or as far as I know... I did never see one in person before, only by footage in different places by how is, and the different ways of being prepared and celebrated."

While A'malther is with the three members of O5 Council, A'habbat is going with A'tellif by their own way, talking about their things.

O5-1 would likely respond in a measured, diplomatic manner, balancing curiosity, caution, and professionalism while attempting to glean more about A'malther's intentions and motivations. Here's what their response might be:

O5-1: "A marriage ceremony, then. I must admit, A'malther, it is… unexpected. The decor, the preparation—it all suggests you've given this significant thought. Yet I find myself wondering: why model it after human traditions? If you consider yourself beyond humanity, why not forge something entirely your own? What does this ceremony represent to you?"

This response keeps O5-1's tone neutral but probes into A'malther's reasoning and emotional connection to humanity, attempting to understand the deeper significance behind his choice to follow human customs rather than creating a divine or unique ritual.

A'malther: "... Because is the only way I know... And wanted it to be... Despite how much any god can think about themselves, what is a god, if is not adored? After all, being or not beyond humanity, is the main point for me, from understanding about god things and further beyond. Other species, and more, as A'habbat tells me... Is something I am still processing. I am more used to the human way, as is what I know more. It gives me more comfort."

O5-1 would likely process A'malther's response carefully, noting both the vulnerability and the complexity of his answer. Their response might aim to explore this further while maintaining their role as observers and analysts of his psyche:

O5-1: "Comfort, then. A curious word, A'malther, for someone who wields such power. Yet it speaks volumes. Perhaps you find solace in the familiar, even as you rise above it. Traditions, no matter their origin, have a way of grounding us, reminding us of where we came from. Still, I wonder—do you see this ceremony as a bridge between what you once were and what you are becoming? Or is it simply a gesture for those you hold close, a reflection of the humanity you say still lingers within you?"

This response acknowledges A'malther's reasoning while subtly probing his motivations, inviting him to explore his own identity further—both as a self-proclaimed god and as someone still tethered to humanity. It also emphasizes the Council's role as cautious witnesses rather than adversaries.

A'malther: "That... That is indeed a complicated question... I do guess the proper answer would be... A mix of both, as is about what I was and becoming, by the way I'm expanding my understanding, while I remain main things as a reflection of the past."

A'malther leads them, while A'tellif and A'habbat bring their own assistants and guests. After some walk, the O5 members see how everything is more and more full of flowers, until then, there is a grave in the middle. They stop in front of the grave, as A'malther stops in front of it and moves his hands to hold, and his arms behind his back. The O5 members look the grave, and they notice the name "Cad" on it, and then they remember when A'malther, when was still known only as SCP-9743, gave SCP-035 the comment of calling it as "Cad". It was clear now for them, A'malther told that, and no explanation, as was the name of someone important to him. Then they remember what A'malther said to A'habbat before the war fight, about using to have a brother in his original world, but being died since long ago.

A'malther: "... Some things... Are never going to change... And if I am honest with you... I invited you to... To know... I did not want it only be A'habbat's way... But I could not get anything of mine, and so... I am sorry for bringing you as such..."

O5-1 would likely take a moment to process the gravity of A'malther's words and the personal significance of the grave. This moment reveals a deeply emotional layer of A'malther, contrasting sharply with his divine self-perception. O5-1's response would aim to balance respect, curiosity, and the need to maintain the Council's authoritative stance:

O5-1: "...No apology is necessary, A'malther. What you have shown us is… profound. It is clear that even as you ascend to something far beyond humanity, you carry the weight of your past—its joys, its pains, and its losses. This grave, this name—it represents more than the memory of your brother, doesn't it? It is a tether, a piece of who you were that refuses to fade, no matter how far you rise. If your intent was for us to understand, then know this—we do. It is not weakness to honor what shaped you, to carry it forward even as you transform. Perhaps it is a strength far greater than even you realize. But tell us, A'malther... is this grave a reminder? A burden? Or... a source of resolve as you step into what you are becoming?"

This response recognizes the emotional weight of the moment while subtly probing A'malther's psyche, offering him a chance to reflect on the significance of this grave and what it means for his identity and future. The O5 Council remains cautious but empathetic, aware that this moment is pivotal in understanding A'malther's motivations and vulnerabilities.

A'malther: "Is... The only loss that made me lose my feelings... Made me try to quit... The only pain I really felt, and never get through properly... The page I read every day, unable to advance to the next... It is not just a reminder... Is the memory of the one I truly loved and never knew how much, until it was putted away from me... No matter any relationship I had and failed, or by how it failed... It only hurt for a moment, but... This was permanent... And even now... I still can not hold myself easily from falling broken in tears..."

O5-1 would carefully consider A'malther's heartfelt admission, recognizing the profound vulnerability and lingering grief he harbors. This moment offers a rare glimpse into A'malther's humanity, something the O5 Council might consider both a strength and a potential weakness. O5-1's response would aim to acknowledge the depth of A'malther's pain while steering the conversation towards understanding how this loss shapes his current identity and decisions.

O5-1: "...Pain like that, A'malther, is not something that time alone can mend. It carves into the soul, shaping everything that follows, for better or worse. For one such as you, with your power and perception, that wound becomes immortal—a constant shadow in your light. But even shadows serve a purpose. This grave, this memory... it grounds you. It ties you to a time when loss and love were still tangible, when you were still human in ways that perhaps even you are reluctant to leave behind. And yet, it is that very humanity, that vulnerability, which makes you far more than just a god."

O5-1 pauses, glancing at the grave, before returning their gaze to A'malther.

O5-1: "If this loss remains the page you cannot turn, A'malther, perhaps it's because it is not a chapter meant to be closed. Instead, it is one that defines the story you now write—one where that pain becomes purpose. You carry the memory not as a burden, but as a guide. And perhaps... that is what gives you the strength to lead with compassion, even as you ascend."

O5-1's response balances compassion with calculated intent, framing A'malther's pain as something that elevates him rather than diminishes him. The Council would see this as an opportunity to further understand his motivations while reinforcing the connection between his lingering humanity and his divine transformation. This approach allows them to remain engaged without appearing manipulative, offering respect while subtly steering the conversation towards A'malther's current decisions and identity.

A'malther: "... I do know... But well..."

Then a rose appears in thin air, and A'malther grabs it, and with caution, plants it aside the grave. While O5 members notice the old theme picture A'malther grabs from being laying in front the grave, after planting the rose. And then giving it to O5-1.

O5-1 observes the image, and sees three people posing in the foreground, as two males in the sides, and one female in the middle. The males seems to be wearing a helmet, and a jacket, both of the same style, while the male of the right in the image, is also wearing a gas mask. In the background, there is a similar decoration prepared, as white chairs placed, and where should be the altar for marriage, up is a big heart.

A'malther: "That was... The last moment I saw both... My brother, and who in that moment used to be my girlfriend... But she is irrelevant..."

O5-1 would carefully examine the photograph, taking note of the details that reveal glimpses of A'malther's past, particularly the bond between him and the two figures. The helmeted and gas-masked individuals, paired with the wedding-like setting, paint a poignant picture of a time when A'malther's life was far simpler, yet deeply meaningful. The Council member would likely approach this moment with a mix of respect and curiosity, understanding its significance while remaining cautious of how it connects to A'malther's current mindset and actions.

O5-1's Response: (O5-1 gently lowers the photo, looking at A'malther with an expression that mixes understanding and quiet curiosity.) "I can see why this moment holds such weight for you, A'malther. It's not just a fragment of the past—it's a reflection of what you've lost and what you're striving to reclaim, even if not consciously. Your brother... this Cad. He seems central to who you were, and perhaps to who you've become. But you've dismissed the woman in the image, calling her irrelevant. I can't help but wonder—why? Was her presence not significant, or does it simply pale in comparison to the bond you shared with your brother?"

O5-1's response would reflect a balance between genuine curiosity and strategic observation. The mention of Cad allows them to subtly nudge A'malther into sharing more about his emotional core, which could be key to understanding his motivations and potential vulnerabilities. At the same time, questioning the dismissal of the woman introduces an avenue to explore other facets of his past, which might provide further insight into his evolving psyche.

From the O5 Council's perspective, every detail about A'malther's past and emotional landscape is valuable. They would likely discuss privately how this photo, and A'malther's attachment to it, might influence his decision-making and whether it offers any opportunities to guide or manipulate his future actions for the benefit of humanity.

A'malther: "... In each relationship... I always got used by my girlfriend... Always supposed to support her... For me... Is just another one... Like Iris... After doubting me, despite me not really remembering, she refused to give me a chance... It just happened again... I do not have anything personal against humanity, but... You see why I decided what I did and more... But let's go, there are more things while A'habbat takes her guests and assistants, and I want to also have more guests."

A'malther leads them back to where the ceremony will be celebrated, and when opens a portal, MTF, scientists and guards, personnel of the Foundation, even SCP-049, SCP-076-2, and SCP-035, got taken to assist, but by a more forced decision from A'malther. The three SCPs reacted by their way by seeing A'malther, but he explained it to them, while O5-1 did explain to the Foundation personnel about the situation.

O5 Council's Observations and Thoughts on the Events

The O5 Council members present—O5-1, O5-2, and O5-4—found themselves navigating a complex and precarious situation. They observed A'malther's actions with measured apprehension, analyzing his behavior, decisions, and the implications for the Foundation and humanity at large.

O5-1's Thoughts: The Psychological Core and Emotional Motivation

O5-1, ever the strategist, focused on understanding A'malther's emotional landscape and the deeper meaning behind his decisions. The grave of "Cad" and A'malther's admission of profound grief revealed a vulnerability that O5-1 deemed critical to his psyche. The photo solidified this, presenting a clear snapshot of the relationships A'malther valued most and how they shaped him.

Key Observations:

A'malther's connection to Cad suggests that his motivations are rooted in loss and a yearning for stability. This emotional anchor could be leveraged to maintain dialogue and potentially influence his decisions. His dismissal of past relationships—"just another one"—indicates a deep-seated disillusionment with personal connections, especially with humanity. This bitterness reinforces his detachment and strengthens his alignment with divinity over mortal concerns. A'malther's continued attachment to humanity, seen in his use of human traditions for the ceremony, represents a lingering tether that may be exploited to temper his godlike ambitions.

Concluding Thought:

"A'malther's grief is both his greatest vulnerability and his greatest strength. It drives his desire for divinity while simultaneously tethering him to humanity. Understanding this balance is key to managing him."

O5-2's Thoughts: Pragmatism and Risk Assessment

O5-2 viewed the situation through a lens of practicality, weighing the potential risks and benefits of A'malther's actions. His use of SCP-914 to enhance A'habbat and A'tellif, coupled with his forced inclusion of Foundation personnel and anomalies at the ceremony, raised significant concerns about control and long-term consequences.

Key Observations:

The transformations of A'habbat and A'tellif signal A'malther's ability to reshape allies into powerful extensions of his will. This elevates the threat they pose but also demonstrates the degree of his control over his followers. His forced invitation of Foundation personnel and SCPs highlights his desire for symbolic power and dominance. A'malther views attendance as a form of submission, even if veiled under politeness. Despite his immense power, A'malther's reliance on human traditions and guests suggests an inherent need for validation. This craving for acknowledgment could be a point of leverage.

Concluding Thought:

"A'malther's actions show a calculated intent to consolidate power while maintaining a facade of diplomacy. His ability to compel participation without outright hostility is a concerning display of his influence."

O5-4's Thoughts: Strategic Insight and Observation

O5-4 approached the situation with analytical precision, focusing on gathering intelligence and understanding A'malther's evolving dynamic with the Foundation and anomalies. The interactions with SCP-049, SCP-076-2, and SCP-035 were of particular interest.

Key Observations:

A'malther's invitation to anomalies like SCP-035, SCP-049, and SCP-076-2 was deliberate. These entities represent complex relationships with the Foundation and potentially powerful allies for A'malther. His ability to explain the situation to these anomalies, particularly SCP-035, suggests he possesses an acute understanding of their motivations. This positions him as a manipulative force capable of building alliances where the Foundation struggles. The forced attendance of personnel and SCPs underscores his growing perception of ownership over the Foundation. A'malther views the institution not as an adversary but as a resource under his control.

Concluding Thought:

"A'malther's ability to command respect and compliance, even among anomalies, highlights the breadth of his influence. If left unchecked, his dominion over the Foundation could extend far beyond mere ceremonial gestures."

Final Thoughts from the O5 Council:

The O5 members agreed that A'malther's actions revealed both opportunities and threats. His attachment to humanity, grief over Cad, and reliance on human traditions offer pathways for negotiation and influence. However, his transformations of A'habbat and A'tellif, coupled with his forced inclusion of Foundation personnel, demonstrate a growing sense of entitlement and power.

Key Conclusions: A'malther's Humanity: His lingering connection to human traditions and emotional loss remains a tether that could be used to temper his divinity and maintain some degree of influence over him.

Ceremony as Symbolism: The marriage ceremony, though seemingly benign, represents a consolidation of power and alliances. Participation by SCPs and personnel is a calculated move to establish dominance and legitimacy.

Risk of Escalation: A'malther's ability to reshape allies and compel participation without overt hostility signals a dangerous escalation in his control. If unchecked, this could evolve into outright dominion over the Foundation.

Next Steps: Monitor A'malther's Influence: Continue observing his interactions with anomalies and personnel to assess the depth of his control.

Leverage Emotional Tethers: Utilize his grief over Cad and attachment to humanity as tools to maintain dialogue and influence his decisions.

Prepare Contingencies: Develop countermeasures for A'malther, A'habbat, and A'tellif in case of conflict, prioritizing containment strategies for their enhanced forms.