RAISA NOTICE
Parts of this document may conflict with consensus reality. In cases of conflict, this document shall be taken as correct.
This document is encoded with a mild cognitohazard, SCP-8294-S1, to protect its contents and ensure that the information in this document can be retained by the reader. If you have adverse reactions to cognitohazards, please exercise appropriate precautions before reading further.
Item#: 8294
Level2
Containment Class:
keter
Secondary Class:
{$secondary-class}
Disruption Class:
ekhi
Risk Class:
critical
- SCP-8294
- SCP-8294-CH1
- SCP-8294-S1
Special Containment Procedures:
Containment is not possible at this time. Mitigation of SCP-8294’s properties has been accomplished via broad dissemination of SCP-8294-S1
Under no circumstances should anyone interact with SCP-8294.
Description:
SCP-8294 is a nebulous meta-physical phenomenon. It is theorized that SCP-8294 may possess consciousness, although this hypothesis is currently untestable. SCP-8294 possesses reality bending properties that enable it to affect and erase portions of consensus reality. SCP-8294 can also alter the memories and personalities of sapient lifeforms.
SCP-8294 is sensitive to human apathy with regards to work and personal care tasks. The anomaly finds targets utilizing the SCP-8294-CH1 cognitohazard, and if a target is vulnerable to SCP-8294’s influence, it will begin completing tasks for the affected individual using its reality bending abilities. Eventually, reality will be altered ensuring said tasks are rendered obsolete.
SCP-8294 has demonstrated the ability to remove sapient lifeforms and locations from consensus reality. The preconditions for, and mechanism behind, this phenomenon have not been possible to determine. The theory most consistent with observations is that this occurs when an individual has had many of their tasks removed from consensus reality, and when a location no longer has any individuals occupying it. It is impossible to determine what locations or to whom this has occurred.
Once the number of individuals influenced by SCP-8294 reaches a critical mass of the human population a CK Reality Restructuring Scenario will occur.
Instances of SCP-8294-CH1 are to be handled with caution. Standard cognitohazard detection methods do not detect it. Full cognitohazard protection is required to handle instances of SCP-8294-CH1.
SCP-8294-CH1 is an anti-memetic/cognitohazard employed by SCP-8294 to communicate with its targets. SCP-8294-CH1's effects are to mask the influence of, and make targets more pliable to, SCP-8294.
It is speculated that SCP-8294-CH1 may also provide SCP-8294 with visual and auditory information, however there is no method with which to test this hypothesis.
SCP-8294-CH1 scanned sample
SCP-8294-S1 was developed by Dr. Gerald Lyn using SCP-8294-CH1 as a source. It is safe to use.
SCP-8294-S1 is a mild cognitohazard that reverses the effects of SCP-8294-CH1. Its use is highly recommended when someone is affected by SCP-8294-CH1 or SCP-8294.
Site Administrators are advised to monitor staff for the following symptoms of SCP-8294 influence:
- Apathy
- Idleness
- Resistance to completing work tasks.
- Enthusiasm to have tasks taken over by unspecified or non-existent sources; e.g., a non-existent automation program.
- Extreme distress with regards to being assigned new work tasks.
- Any use of the phrase, “Lay down my burdens,” or variation thereof.
If an individual shows all of these symptoms, it is recommended to expose them to SCP-8294-S1. Regression should be immediate. If SCP-8294-S1 requires re-calibration please advise Dr. Gerald Lyn at Site 11 immediately.
03-01-2015
Interviewer: Dr. Gerald Lyn - Foundation Senior Researcher
File Photo: Dr. Gerald Lyn
Subject: Sam Cooper - Foundation Custodian
File Photo: Sam Cooper
Dr. Gerald Lyn enters the room as Sam Cooper sits at a plain steel table. Sam Cooper has his head propped up with the palm of his hand.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Hello Mr. Cooper, how are you today?
Sam Cooper: I’ve been cooking in here for a while already. I was starting to wonder if anyone was gonna show up.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Ahh yes, sorry about that, we've been pretty busy today. In any case, I’m here now and I want to hear what happened. Please start from the beginning.
Sam Cooper: It all started when I came back from an internship at Site 13. I show up at work in the morning and the building’s empty! Nobody there. There should be about 50 people. Now I’m the only one in a damned empty office. I thought I’d missed a memo or something, but nope. That’s when I called in to report the emergency.
Dr. Gerald Lyn listens closely, writing a few things down on his clipboard.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Right, and our team arrived to investigate. They found nothing wro-
Sam Cooper: Don’t lay that on me again, man.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: For the sake of the recording, I need to mention that we have no records of any additional personnel working at Data Annex 47. You are the only employee assigned to that location.
Sam Cooper: Doesn’t that sound dumb to you!? One guy assigned to mop a floor nobody walks on, cleaning garbage cans nobody uses!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: That is strange, although I've seen stranger arrangements. The task force didn't have anything unusual to report.
Sam Cooper: Use your head man; I was there, I saw it happen! Your records are what’s wrong here!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well, that seems unlikely. However, we don’t want to leave anything to chance. We’re going to keep you here at Site 11 for a few days to monitor you, and run some tests. I’ll also look into the circumstances of your current assignment to see if anything is off there.
Sam Cooper: It really feels like you're just running through some checkboxes on your clipboard there.
Dr. Gerald Lyn holds the clipboard closer to his chest
Sam Cooper: Oh my god, its actually got checkboxes, doesn't it? Use your damn head!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No comment. Someone will be by shortly to show you to your new temporary quarters. We'll discuss next steps after some observation and testing.
03-04-2015
Location: Reverse dashcam footage of travel to Data Annex 47.
The shot frames two car seats in a standard Foundation Issue investigation van. Sam Cooper is driving, Dr. Gerald Lyn sits in the passenger seat holding some notes.
Sam Cooper: It’s nice to finally get out.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: You didn’t like your accommodations?
Sam Cooper: I liked ‘em just fine. Just claustrophobic being stuck inside for days, ya know.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Not really.
Sam Cooper starts the engine and pulls out of the underground parking.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I looked into your employment situation at Data Annex 47, and although strange, the paperwork appears to be in order.
Sam Cooper shakes his head, a sideways smile on his face.
Sam Cooper: There’s no way you’re this dense.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: This is why I hate case work.
Sam Cooper: Uh huh.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Anyway, our current assignment is for me to accompany you to the Data Annex. I’ll take a look for myself and make sure everything checks out.
Sam Cooper: And if you think everything’s fine?
Dr. Gerald Lyn smiles.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Then case closed. I’ll submit a re-evaluation of your employment situation so that administration can review it, and I’ll be done.
Sam Cooper: Oh! You’ll just leave me in a ghost town, is what you’re sayin’.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Mister Cooper, if your work situation is distressing I am authorized to administer amnestics to help you reorient.
Sam Cooper: Excuse me!?
Dr. Gerald Lyn leans away from Sam Cooper, looking over.
Sam Cooper: So the problem isn’t that my coworkers are missing, it’s that I remember them!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: That would appear to be the case if I can find no other issues.
Sam Cooper: Are you fucking kidding me!?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I’m not sure I-
Sam Cooper: Did you look up the names I gave you?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I-well yes I tried, neither Chad Williams nor Leonard Hutchenson show up in any Foundation database. I also tried a search on civilian databases and there were no relevant records.
Sam Cooper’s grip on the wheel tightens, there’s about 5 minutes of silence.
Sam Cooper suddenly looks at something out the window.
Sam Cooper: Well fuck.
Dr. Gerald Lyn looks up from his notes and glances around, as Sam Cooper slumps against the wheel.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Why have we pulled over?
Sam Cooper: Welcome to Data Annex 47!
Alleged Former Site of Data Annex 47 (DX47)
Sam Cooper pushes himself off the wheel, slumping back into the driver's seat.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Surely you’ve taken a… a wrong t-turn?
Sam Cooper looks over and shakes his head slowly. Dr. Gerald Lyn sighs.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I need to call the Site Director.
Upon learning of the complete disappearance of an auxillery site, Data Annex 47, Site Director Jordan Graham ordered an immediate audit of all personnel and equipment at Site 11. This audit would later return that aside from a few minor discrepancies, the site’s inventory and staffing were at expected levels.
Dr. Gerald Lyn was assigned as Lead Researcher of SCP-8294 and assigned MTF Xi-6 (“You’re Testing Me”) as support.
Given Sam Cooper’s unique experience with the anomaly and some completed training prior, Sam Cooper was assigned as a Temporary Consulting Field Agent attached to the SCP-8294 investigation team.
Location: Alleged Former Site of Data Annex 47
The footage shows the interior wall of a ruined concrete building. Sam Cooper is under a Scranton Reality Anchor, making adjustments with Dr. Gerald Lyn’s direction.
Sam Cooper: Okay, cycle 32 is set.
Dr. Gerald Lyn flips through the pages of the manual.
Sam Cooper: Been a pretty shit day so far, huh?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Let’s just stick to the job, please.
Sam Cooper: Oh common! We’re on step what, 6 of 215? I’m not gonna make it if we can’t pass the time.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Step 5, actually. It’ll go faster if you focus on your tasks, and stop emoting to me.
Sam Cooper: Sorry, what’s the next step?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Find the red cascade adjustment valve, and set it to 36.4.
Sam Cooper begins making some adjustments.
Sam Cooper: Mind if I make an observation?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: If I said yes, would it prevent you from continuing?
Sam Cooper: You don’t talk to a lot of people, do you?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No, and I’d like to keep it that way.
Sam Cooper: How do you work in a big place like Site 11, and not talk to anyone?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I have my office in the corner of subfloor 6, and nobody enters unless I say so, and I rarely ever say so.
Sam Cooper: What about emails?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Handled very simply with a standardized form that departments fill out and send, and I send back.
Sam Cooper smiles, shaking his head, as he finishes the adjustments.
Sam Cooper: You’ve really covered all your bases, huh? Valve’s set.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I’m not a people person. Next you’ll need to connect pins J6 and W9.
Sam Cooper quickly attaches a small connecting wire between two pins.
Sam Cooper: So what do you even do then? Pins are connected.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Advanced Research Consulting, I’m familiar with a wide variety of research modalities, so I can assist our other departments with their most complex research questions.
Sam Cooper: Uh huh, just out there, an island. Do you even care about anomalies?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Not really, I’m interested in puzzles… Okay next let’s adjust the synchronizer to 36.6.
Sam Cooper: And you’re just doin’ puzzles from sun up to sun down?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I do other things, I’ll have you know we have an exhilarating bridge tournament lined up next week.
Sam Cooper laughs, as he begins adjusting a dial on the anchor.
Sam Cooper: I bet you do.
They continue working for another 2 hours.
Sam Cooper: What step are we on now?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: 74.
Sam Cooper: Ugh.
Dr. Gerald Lyn & Sam Cooper: Stop emoting.
Dr. Gerald Lyn’s face scrunches up, his brow pressed downward as he shoots Sam a look.
Sam Cooper: My apologies again. Why does that bother you?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I don’t know. I know what you're thinking, but it’s not psychological. I’m just sensitive to emotional outbursts.
Sam Cooper: You really held it together on the drive up here then. I was emoting all over the place.
Sam laughs
Dr. Gerald Lyn: It was a herculean effort, I assure you. Short time periods I can manage, but we’ve been at this for almost 2 and a half hours now and it’s exhausting! I was supposed to be back at Site 11 by now!
Sam Cooper: Now who’s emoting.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: You can sure turn a phrase, I imagine that skill comes in handy while sloshing water around.
Sam Cooper: Won’t work on me, man. I’m not sensitive to emoting.
Once the Scranton Reality Anchor was set up, Dr. Gerald Lyn attempted several restorations; however, no changes were observed. Sam Cooper and the MTF team disassemble and haul away all equipment on site.
The camera has been moved back to a corner of the derelict building. Sam Cooper can be seen walking deliberately, occasionally holding his hands up and making a square with his fingers. Dr. Gerald Lyn walks into frame.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well Mister Cooper, we’re ready to head out.
Sam Cooper: Hold up a moment….
Dr. Gerald Lyn: What are you doing?
Sam Cooper: I knew this place, really knew it. There’s just something… I dunno… off about this.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Likely psychosomatic, you’ve just had your entire workplace disappear.
Sam Cooper: Nah man, it’s something… else.
Sam Cooper’s fingertips run along an invisible wall that was once there.
Sam Cooper: Even the air feels weird.
Dr. Gerald Lyn sighs and rubs his arms.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Are you going to be much longer?
Sam Cooper: I dunno… I just feel like I’m not seeing something. There’s something… hidden, and wrong.
Sam Cooper begins walking in measured steps. Dr. Gerald Lyn rubs his arms some more and shakes his head.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Mister Cooper, my patience is abou-
Sam Cooper: Right here.
Sam Cooper stops in front of a ruined doorway.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: What?
Sam Cooper: This was where the server room was. We should check it.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Fine. But this is the last thing, then we’re going.
They both enter the abandoned room, there’s only debris and rubble. Sam Cooper rummages around. Dr. Gerald Lyn looks about the room, kicking a few pieces with his feet.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Oh, there!
Dr. Gerald Lyn points to a pile of rubble and Sam Cooper moves it to reveal a flat long server, designed to be put into a rack mount. Sam Cooper snaps a picture of it and then lifts it out from the pile of old stones.
Recovered server
Sam Cooper: Huh, wonder if this has anything worthwhile on it?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: We’ll bring it with us. Let’s get out of here.
Dr. Gerald Lyn walks out of the room. Sam Cooper goes to follow, but hesitates, he looks around one more time with his brow furrowed, then leaves as well.
03-06-2015
The recovered server contained security camera footage from a supporting site identified as Data Annex 47. The data was severely fragmented. Only 4 sections of footage were recovered:
Location: Foundation Data Annex 47, Grand Ledge.
Timestamp: 02-06-2015
The footage shows a walkway between cubicles containing a water cooler. 3 individuals stand around it. They have been identified by Sam Cooper as Leonard Hutchenson, Chad Williams, and Rick Weston. The background noise of people working is audible in the recording.
Leonard Hutchenson: You going to the college game, Chad?
Chad Williams: Hell yeah! Go Whales!
Leonard Hutchenson and Chad Williams high five each other.
Sam Cooper: Agent Cooper here, you’re all under arrest for 3rd degree slackin!
Sam Cooper speaks in a deep voice as he walks in from off camera. The others turn and laugh, halfway putting up their hands.
Rick Weston: Sorry officer, won’t happen again!
Chad Williams: You’re off to Site 13 tomorrow, huh?
Sam Cooper: Almost finished the training program!
Leonard Hutchenson: Think you’ll actually make agent after all this?
Sam Cooper: Hey, I can only hope. If not, I'm still gonna be on your butts for well… your butts in some cases!
Chad Williams: If you’re as hard on your suspects as you were on me, I feel sorry for ‘em.
Footage corrupted.
Location: Foundation Data Annex 47, Grand Ledge.
Timestamp: 02-13-2015
The footage shows a walkway between cubicles containing a water cooler, Chad Williams and Rick Weston are standing around it. The carpet has a large stain. A few stray voices in the background can be heard.
Chad Williams: The new automation program is working pretty well!
Rick Weston: Lucky you, I haven’t been picked yet.
Chad Williams: Well, give it time. They have to give it to us hard workers first.
Chad Williams stands up straighter, with a smile on his face.
Rick Weston: Hah! Like hell, I think you’re the only one here more than I am.
Rick Weston gestures to the water cooler as he talks.
Leonard Hutchenson: Shit, look at this.
Leonard walks into frame pointing at the stain.
Rick Weston: Huh? Oh that. Yeah I wondered about that.
Leonard Hutchenson: Shouldn’t someone be taking care of it?
Rick Weston: I wonder who does the cleaning around here anyway.
Footage corrupted
Location: Foundation Data Annex 47, Grand Ledge.
Timestamp: 02-20-2015
The footage shows a walkway between cubicles containing a water cooler with Chad Williams and Leonard Hutchenson standing around it. The carpet has several large stains.
Chad Williams: Just 3 hours left.
Leonard Hutchenson: Yeah, I can’t wait to get out of here. I finally got selected for the automation program.
Chad Williams: You might have more time than you know what to do with soon.
Chad Williams: Gonna watch the game tonight?
Leonard Hutchenson: Yeah, you?
Chad Williams: Yeah.
Leonard looks around slowly.
Leonard Hutchenson: Does it ever feel like someone’s missing?
Chad Williams: Not really.
Leonard Hutchenson: Huh.
Leonard Hutchenson walks away silently. There’s a few minutes of complete silence as Chad Williams stands next to the water cooler.
Chad Williams begins talking quietly to himself.
Chad Williams: How could it stretch on forever, it wouldn’t, it would decay. No city could stretch forever like that. No homes for anyone, no offices for anyone, just hunks of concrete and steel. Why would that stand?
Footage corrupted.
I'm askin' Doctor Lyn to put this in the official record. I just can't get these people out of my head. This thing's a real head trip, they don't exist but I remember them! I remember them clear as can be. Chad Williams, Leonard Hutchenson, Rick Weston, the 3 damn guys I knew the most at that place.
Probably because they were always slackin' off. They spent more time at the water cooler than their actual desks!
Chad and his disgusting smoke habit. When I first started working there, bloody butts all over the back entrance. I remember he kept leaving them there even after I'd complained, so I built up a little collection after a few days cleanin. Real nice pile, and one night I spread 'em nice n thick all over the floor of his cube. Oh man, he was pissed the next morning. Tried to have the supervisor write me up, but what's he gonna do? I already clean the damn floor! I think I got through to him though, we still joke… fuck… joked, I guess, about that.
Rick and Leonard helped me through some tough times. It was Rick that suggested I start doing extension courses to get my Field Agent training. Lotta work, late nights, just burnt out some days, and those guys would have my back. They'd even pitch in, clean up their shit in the small breakroom from time to time. Guess this was the final thing they were able to help with… show everyone I'm not fucking crazy.
50 people, just gone. They had friends, family, kids, lives. Now nobody knows who they were, except for me.
Maybe it won't amount to much, but I'm gonna write the names of everyone I can think of there. At least they'll be here.
Bessie Spiridon
Mukta Tuyet
Tighearnach Ioannu
Judy Gunne
Judy Chi
Richard Q
Mies Blaz
Adem Melino
Kamal Charna
Judoc O
Rachel S
Raegan Myrt
Sofia Melione
Fabian Charna
That's all I got, far from everyone. Gerald you'd best put this whole thing in there or I'm gonna emote so hard you'll have to throw me off the site!
Despite the lack of professionalism, I have decided to add this to the record unedited. I should also note, none of these people have any records in the Foundation Employee Database.
- Dr. Gerald Lyn, Lead Researcher: SCP-8294
Combination of CCTV footage from various areas
Location: Site 11 Hallways
Sam Cooper and Dr. Gerald Lyn walk side by side through Site 11’s main corridors.
Sam Cooper: That tape was fucked man.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Emoting, Mister Cooper.
Sam Cooper: Right–it’s just hard seeing them again, knowing they’re gone.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well it does give us some insight into the disappearances.
Sam Cooper: That wasn’t even them anymore. I dunno who those people were.
The pair round a corner.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: It’s interesting though, I wonder why they wouldn’t care about the deterioration around them?
Sam Cooper: Ahh, y’all never care when the floors look like shit, until it gets in your way.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Care to elaborate?
Sam Cooper: I have to keep on you fancy types all the time to pick up after yourselves. It’s disgusting, frankly.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: My point exactly, the people on the tape didn’t seem disturbed about it, yet it sounds like you were pretty hard on them.
Sam Cooper: Hmm, you’re right. See what I mean about it not even seeming like them anymore?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I'm starting to.
As they walk, they stop as Dr. Sadie Ederne walks up from the other direction.
File Photo of Dr. Sadie Ederne
Dr. Sadie Ederne: Hey Gerald!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Sadie, I must apologize for the lateness of those quantum differentials I’m working on for you.
Dr. Sadie Ederne: Oh no problem. I don’t mind waiting, Gerald.
Sam Cooper: You gonna introduce me?
Dr. Gerald Lyn sighs.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: How could I not? Doctor Ederne, Mister Cooper; Mister Cooper, Doctor Ederne.
Dr. Sadie Ederne and Sam Cooper shake hands.
Sam Cooper: Charmed, I’ve heard a bit about you.
Dr. Gerald Lyn gives Sam Cooper a brief look, and Dr. Sadie Ederne leans back with a raised brow.
Dr. Sadie Ederne: Oh really? Well good things I hope.
Sam Cooper: Nothing but the best.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: We do need to get going. Good to see you again, Sadie.
Dr. Sadie Ederne: You too, Gerald.
Sam Cooper and Dr. Gerald Lyn keep walking.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: That was most unprofessional, Mister Cooper.
Sam Cooper: Relax, I did you a favor. She digs you.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I…
Sam Cooper: Do you dig her?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I don’t ‘dig’ her, and this conversation is pointless.
Sam Cooper: Say it is? See, I don’t need no technical manual to tell you two are into each other.
Dr. Gerald Lyn’s gait stiffens as they continue walking through the corridors.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: And how’s that?
Sam Cooper: Just have to study people. If you were a bit more curious about them you’d have done better in the poker game last night.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: My playing was mathematically perfect, how you won is anyone’s guess.
Sam Cooper: Poker isn’t about numbers, it’s about people.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: If we had played bridge, it would have been a different story. I don’t understand why everyone prefers such juvenile games such as poker.
Sam Cooper: A mystery for the ages, I’m sure.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Doctor Ederne and I make quite a terrifying bridge team.
Sam Cooper flashes Dr. Gerald Lyn a raised eyebrow and half smile. Dr. Gerald Lyn shakes his head.
Sam Cooper: Hold up.
Sam Cooper and Dr. Gerald Lyn stop just inside the Site 11 Employee Lounge. Sam Cooper begins looking around, squinting his eyes.
Sam Cooper: Do you feel that?
Dr. Gerald Lyn sighs, rubbing his forehead.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Feel what?
Sam Cooper begins inspecting his surroundings closely. He looks at the employee noticeboard, tapping it a few times with his finger. Then his attention turns to some of the empty uncleaned tables.
Sam Cooper: There it is again… just a sense.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: What sense?
Sam Cooper: Like I’m not seeing something.
Sam Cooper lowers himself to the floor and starts inspecting under the tables.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Again, what is this all about?
Sam Cooper: I think if we’re gonna crack this thing, we need to be curious about this anomaly.
Dr. Gerald Lyn looks at Sam on the floor with a slight frown.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I feel like I’m curious about one right now.
Sam Cooper continues surveying under the tables and starts shaking his head.
Sam Cooper: Gerald, this thing is here, man.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Doctor Lyn, and how could you know that?
Sam Cooper: I can just tell. It’s like an aftertaste in my mind. Like after having some really awful bitter beer. It’s here, man.
Sam Cooper rises up off the floor, still looking around, squinting his eyes as he continues inspecting the surroundings.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well we can’t exactly call a site wide emergency based on your hunch.
Sam Cooper: I suppose not, but what can we do?
Dr. Gerald Lyn rubs his chin a few times, looking around the staff lounge. He points a few times at some different people, but says nothing.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I have an idea…
03-08-2015
Spot interviews were conducted at the Site 11 Employee Lounge. 7 out of the 21 Site 11 staff interviewed referenced a “Site Automation Program.” No such program has or had been implemented at Site 11.
3 of these staff were detained for in-depth interviews:
Interview 1
Subject
Doctor Marie Ivenson
Background
Works in Auxiliary Manufacturing Research.
Summary
The subject extolled the virtues of the new “Site Automation Program.” She expressed her desire to focus more on meaningful work and was excited that Site Administration had finally found a way to do away with the, “Drudgery of day to day paperwork.” The subject said it was great to finally, “Lay down my burdens.”
When it was revealed to the subject that there was no Site Automation Program and that she needed to continue her duties as before, she became visibly distressed saying, “I cannot go back to that.”
We contacted the subject's supervisor and have had the subject placed on mandatory leave.
Interview 2
Subject
Technician Charles Barns
Background
Works in Building Maintenance.
Summary
The subject was very excited to talk with us about the new “Site Automation Program.” Specifically, the subject had several suggestions to share regarding other tasks that we could be automating, stating, “We need to help everyone lay down their burdens!”
After informing the subject that the interview was not about improving the program, but rather that it doesn’t exist and that the subject needs to stop engaging with it. The subject became hostile, saying that there was, “No damn way,” they were going back to, “The bullshit you guys would put me through on a daily basis.”
The Subject had to be confined to their quarters.
Interview 3
Subject
Agent Fred Whissle
Background
Agent on MTF Xi-6 (“You’re Testing Me”) - Unit that specializes in weapon testing.
MTF Xi-6 (“You’re Testing Me”) was drafted to coordinate retrieval of interview subjects for these interviews. Subject refused to carry out orders.
Summary
The subject was very distressed at the prospect that the “Site Automation Program” may not be real. He expressed a desire to implement it properly if it wasn’t, as it could really help everyone, “Lay down their burdens.”
When asked what, specifically, the program has done for the subject. The subject tried for several minutes to think of something and when they could not, the subject became physically violent with the interviewer.
Subject was confined to Site 11 detention: S11-06-C184.
Based on these findings, Lead Researcher Dr. Gerald Lyn approached Site Director Jordan Graham. After determining that Site Director Jordan Graham was not affected by the anomaly, Dr. Gerald Lyn advised Site Director Jordan Graham to covertly implement an alerted status at the site, and isolate affected individuals.
Site Director Jordan Graham has also started procedures to begin inquiries at other sites.
Inquiries were launched at all Foundation sites. Every site had personnel discussing a non-existent “Site Automation Program.” Agents embedded in the general public reported multiple instances of individuals referencing a non-existent “Automation Program” at their workplaces.
A request has been elevated to the O5 council to declare a CK Reality Restructuring Event emergency.
An intelligence sweep located an anartist named Alex Amaury located near Site 11. They have released a series of pieces that involve “Laying down your burdens.” Suspecting this is not a coincidence, Lead Researcher Dr. Gerald Lyn has requested Temporary Consulting Field Agent Sam Cooper to investigate. Given Sam Cooper’s resistance to the anomalies' influence, Site Director Jordan Graham has approved this unorthodox choice.
Sam Cooper will pose as a buyer, working for a wealthy patron, and find out what Alex Amaury knows about the anomaly. Sam Cooper will be given a standard set of agent equipment including a 2-way earpiece, a 9mm service pistol, and eyeglasses containing a micro-camera.
Mixture of body camera footage and CCTV footage from The Jackel Bar
Sam Cooper stands outside The Jackel Bar.
Dr. Gerald Lyn (Earpiece): Testing testing.
Sam Cooper: I hear you. Still pretty nervous about this whole thing.
Dr. Gerald Lyn (Earpiece): Naturally. This is a difficult first assignment. We all face our trial by fire sooner or later. I’m here and we have an MTF team on standby around the corner. We’ll send them in if things go sideways.
Sam Cooper: Right, let’s hope we learn something.
Sam Cooper walks into the bar, it's lively with people seated at many of the tables. A bouncer stands watch at the front.
Bouncer: Name?
Sam Cooper: Sam Cooper, I'm here to-
Bouncer: Yeah I know, over there.
The bouncer points to someone waving Sam Cooper over. Sam walks towards them.
File Photo of Alex Amaury
Alex Amaury: Bonjour Monsieur Cooper, what a pleasure to make your acquaintance!
Sam Cooper: Mister Amaury, I've heard a lot 'bout you! Good to meet you!
They shake hands and Alex Amaury opens a door he’s standing next to.
Alex Amaury: Please, come and see my private galerie.
They walk through the door and Sam Cooper looks around at all the various paintings.
Sam Cooper: So my patron is really interested in your latest work.
Alex Amaury: Ahh, it’s really making the rounds!
Sam Cooper: Yeah, they said it really speaks to them.
Alex Amaury: Ah, if I could count the number of times such graces have been heaped upon my humble shoulders. I can only thank the heavens themselves for my latest. I feel like people are beginning to “get the message” so to speak!
They walk around the various artwork that is on display in the back room.
Sam Cooper: Oh yeah? And what message is that?
Alex Amaury: See for yourself!
Alex Amaury gives Sam Cooper a small postcard sized paper. Sam Cooper looks at it, making sure the camera embedded in his glasses can see it.
Dr. Gerald Lyn (Earpiece): Sam, I don't see anything… must be something wrong on our end!
Sam Cooper: Interesting.
Alex Amaury stops, and studies Sam Cooper for a moment.
Alex Amaury: You see the message?
Sam Cooper: Well it’s a… interesting work… although I might need you to walk me through your intended expression here.
Alex Amaury: Ahh, you see the message, but you do not yet comprehend it.
Sam Cooper: I suppose you could say that.
Alex Amaury: Monsieur Cooper, I sense in you a kindred spirit.
Sam Cooper: I find that hard to believe.
Alex Amaury: I dare say, you are as devoted to your craft, as I am to mine. Do you feel the connection to the world, as I do?
Sam Cooper: I appreciate the beauty in our everyday lives, if that’s what you’re sayin’.
Alex Amaury: Ahh, it is, it is. We are different from the bourgeois masses.
Sam Cooper: You don’t say?
Alex Amaury: Yes! We feel the connection to the world. We are people, these ones outside, they are walking sacks of meat!
Sam Cooper: Harsh.
Alex Amaury: Nay, the truth! They only consume and consume, caring naught for the simple beauties as we do. They would sleep their lives away if there were nothing to enthrall and capture their attention. They are water and we are the mops that must push them toward the “next big thing.”
Sam Cooper stiffens, and stops walking.
Sam Cooper: So you’re sayin’… uh… that they’re disengaged.
Alex Amaury: Yes, exactly! We have such a precious gift of life and they piss it away on cheap thrills, relegating the rest of their lives as the shit they must wade through to get to the next thrill. Yet do you know what happens, Monsieur Cooper, when they consume their cheap thrills?
Sam Cooper: What?
Alex Amaury: It turns to shit as well, and this repeats until eventually they simply wallow in shit. They become shit. I’ve longed to express this, but I have not had the proper medium until now!
Dr. Gerald Lyn (Earpiece): Sam, I still can't see the card, I'm not sure what's going on!
Sam Cooper: And where did you get the inspiration for this?
Sam Cooper holds up the card.
Alex Amaury: Would you believe me if I said it came to me in a dream? A missive from the five pointed star itself. A transcendent piece that can fully communicate my message. I think you should join me, and help me spread the message. Only people like us are capable messengers.
Sam Cooper shakes his head.
Sam Cooper: Nah man, I think you might be cracked. I’ll keep your sample though, see what my patron thinks.
Sam Cooper turns to leave. Alex Amaury walks behind with another piece of paper in his hand.
Alex Amaury: Monsieur Cooper, I have one more piece you should see!
Sam Cooper turns around and upon glancing at the paper he lets out a scream and launches backwards, his head impacting the brick wall behind him and he falls to the ground, blood visible on the wall where his head impacted. The camera feed distorts.
La░ do▒n y░░r b▓rd█ns.
Sam Cooper struggles to get up as Alex Amaury draws closer, holding the paper in front of him. Sam Cooper almost looks at it again but averts his eyes.
Alex Amaury: We know what you are, ‘Agent’ Sam Cooper. We have eyes and ears everywhere. I had hoped we could work together, but I see now you’ll need some additional persuasion. It’s time to wipe the shit off the metaphorical floor. Your friends will not be coming to save you.
Alex Amaury gets closer to Sam Cooper, positioning the paper so Sam Cooper will see it again. Sam Cooper closes his eyes and turns around, taking the 9mm out of his jacket at the same time. He fires three times.
Alex Amaury stumbles back, drops the paper, and crumples to the ground. Sam Cooper lowers his arm and moves his head around a few times, before falling unconscious.
Location: Underground Bunker
Empty offices and cubicles, floors upon floors of deserted office space, nobody is here, nobody will be again, this place is empty and hollow.
Water coolers stand ready, half full of clear liquid. it will not be consumed. No words will be exchanged at these places ever again. No connection will be felt here.
Computers sit silent, they will not process or move the data that once kept this place going.
The thing that was once known as "SCP Foundation Site 11" is gone. Only the bones remain, slowly being eaten away by the passage of time.
Anomaly containment chambers line corridors of empty hallways. Anomalies, containment, concepts long since dead and gone from this husk of metal and concrete. There are no anomalies anymore, no containment, no SCP Foundation.
The hands on the clocks along the wall have stopped. Time stands still here. This place is waiting for something that has left, and will not return.
Location: Underground Platform
An empty concrete platform gathers dust and detritus. A fading metal snake rests on two rails, parts of the sidewalls rusting through, exposing the deserted inside to the surrounding stale air.
The doors rest closed; there is no one to grant entry to. There is no reason for this dilapidated thing to move anymore. The words, “66th Street-Lincoln Center Station,” cast a shadow on this place, the echoes of a time long ago.
Location: Small Room
A rusting metal frame supports a decrepit sagging foam pad, indentations still visible from when this place served as a sanctuary from the labors of the day, from a time no one remembers. There will never be anyone to seek sanctuary here again.
Empty warped wooden boxes sit slotted into a frame, holding fabrics that once expressed someone so long ago. A bound and covered collection of faded papers sits in one drawer containing glyphs that detail the innermost life of no one at all. All of this sits, evanescing.
Location: A Cluster of Concrete Structures
A smooth surface cracks in many places as grasses push up through its skin. Sagging, pockmarked, cracked, concrete structures expose their once perfect interiors, emitting rancid odors as organic material decomposes inside.
Metal boxes on four wheels rest abandoned on the fractured eroding pavement, once they had purpose, but now they will never move again. The rubber hardening and splitting.
All of this is finished, all of this must return to earth; the place from whence it came. It’s time to rest now.
Sam Cooper wakes up in the backroom. He holds his head and, after some struggle, stands up.
Sam Cooper: Ugh.
Sam Cooper exits the backroom. The entire bar is still and unmoving.
Sam Cooper: Gerald?
Sam Cooper continues to look around. He taps his ear piece a few times.
Sam Cooper: Gerald?
Sam Cooper puts his hand back on his head and struggles to walk out of the bar. In the parking lot he sees many copies of the same card Alex Amaury showed him.
Sam Cooper: They're everywhere? Why didn't I notice them when I came?…. Ahh!
Sam Cooper grabs his head.
Sam Cooper: Fuck!
Sam Cooper goes to the vehicle and grabs a first aid kit from under the passenger seat. Rooting through it he grabs some antiseptic and a bandage. He applies the septic to his wound and then the bandage. He wraps the bandage around his head, covering the wound. Sam Cooper then starts the car, backs up and drives out, heading back toward Site 11.
Sam Cooper: Fuck, those cards really are everywhere. Everyone is just standing around, man. What the hell.
Sam Cooper's car arrives at Site 11, upon entering the underground garage flashing red lights and alarm klaxons can be heard.
Intercom Automated Message: Attention! Attention! The Foundation Council has declared an emergency situation. A CK Reality Restructuring scenario is currently underway. Please report to action stations!
Sam Cooper gets out of the car and makes his way into the Site. The halls are still, with the occasional motionless person. Sam Cooper makes his way to Dr. Gerald Lyn's office, and sees Dr. Sadie Ederne in front of the door. He moves her aside and enters. In the office Sam Cooper sees Dr. Gerald Lyn sitting at his desk, motionless. Sam Cooper approaches and waves his hand in front of Dr. Gerald Lyn’s face, there is no response. Sam paces, rubbing his brow.
Sam Cooper: No no no, this isn’t good. This isn’t good… what to do… what to do…
Sam continues pacing, the klaxons continuing to sound outside the office. Sam Cooper stops and his eyes fixate on a spot of the concrete wall of the office. Sam Cooper braces himself on the wall, holding his head.
A few minutes pass.
Sam Cooper: That’s it!
Sam Cooper turns quickly and grabs Dr. Gerald Lyn's shoulder, rotating him in the chair.
Sam Cooper: Gerald, it’s me, Sam Cooper. Look at me!
Dr. Gerald Lyn’s eyes lock on Sam Coopers.
Sam Cooper: “Gerald, you need to remember why you want to be here, okay? You gotta remember for me, for all of us. I can’t do this shit alone, I don't even know why I never noticed these damn shitty art cards everywhere! Snap out of it man.”
Dr. Gerald Lyn remains motionless, eyes still locked on Sam Cooper’s. Sam Cooper speaks slowly and deliberately.
Sam Cooper: You don’t like it when people emote, well I’m really fucking emoting right now. So listen, listen carefully. You want to be here, probably have wanted it your whole life. You feel challenged here, and they keep the emoting people out, you like that.”
Dr. Gerald Lyn’s eye twitches slightly
Sam Cooper: You have a crush on that girl, Sadie uhh… whatever, Doctor Sadie, and you just need to talk to her. To do that you need to remember that you want to be here, that you need to be here! She's right outside the door!
Dr. Gerald Lyn remains still, the only sound is of the klaxons blaring in the hallway.
Sam Cooper: Come on! Snap out of it, Sadie doesn’t want to be with a comatose mannequin, she wants to be with you. I know, and even you know it, you just gotta make a move! Also, you may be able to calculate the odds of winning a poker hand, but you are really really shit at poker, I’m pretty sure they let you win and frankly I strung you along too. Why would we do that? Because people like being around you!
Dr. Gerald Lyn's eye moves, then both eyes begin scanning in front of him. Sam Cooper waits, silently, his mouth open a little.
Sam Cooper: You back with us?
Sam Cooper gently releases Dr. Gerald Lyn’s shoulders. Dr. Gerald Lyn nods
Dr. Gerald Lyn: What happened?
Dr. Gerald Lyn points at Sam Cooper's head.
Sam Cooper: Hit my head pretty bad. Alex tried to knock me out with a piece of paper, cognitohazard I think… I think I'll be… oof… this is starting to catch up with me.
Sam Cooper collapses into a chair.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: We need to get you to medical.
Sam Cooper holds up a hand.
Sam Cooper: No man, there's nobody there to treat anyone. Everyone's just still, motionless.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Oh…
Sam Cooper reaches for the sample card he took from the Bar.
Sam Cooper: You have some kinda protection against a cognitohaz…zard?
Sam Cooper slumps in his chair..
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Yes, just one moment.
Dr. Gerald Lyn puts on a set of tinted eyeglasses.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Okay, let's see it.
Sam Cooper puts the postcard sized paper on the desk. Sam Cooper starts to nod off, and the video feed gets distorted.
It’s time to sleep now…
Dr. Gerald Lyn looks around and then nudges Sam Cooper.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: You'll need to stay awake, Sam. I just felt … I don't know… like I was slipping away. You're like an anchor, slowing this thing down.
Sam Cooper: Yeah, yeah… I'll try.
Dr. Gerald Lyn studies the paper on the desk for a few minutes.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Interesting… that's why I couldn't see it… this is a perfect marriage of an anti-memetic and a cognitohazard. It's a stealth weapon… you could carpet the whole city in these and nobody would ever know.
Sam Cooper: Yeah… they're everywhere.
Dr. Gerald Lyn tries to turn on his computer, the screen flashes an error.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: The servers are all down. I'm going to have to manually analyze and produce a counter hazard.
Sam Cooper: A what?
Sam Cooper eyes droop downward, Dr. Gerald Lyn gets a magnifying glass, pen and paper.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Cognitohazards are kind of like viruses, fortunately much easier to analyze. If one is practiced, they can engineer an antidote to counter the effects. I only hope that'll result in a restoration of reality. It's our best shot.
Sam Cooper: I can barely keep my eyes open.
Dr. Gerald Lyn shakes Sam Cooper’s shoulder.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Stay up now, you can't sleep. If you sleep we're done for.
Dr. Gerald Lyn begins analyzing the sample and writing down glyphs on his notepad.
Sam Cooper: You'll need to talk to me… I won't make it if I can't… pass the time.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: You know I'm not the best at impromptu conversation.
Sam Cooper: How 'bout I ask you some questions.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Sure.
Sam Cooper: So why can we see the paper now, with the… anti-memetic? Effects.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I suspect you’re partially immune…
Dr. Gerald Lyn pauses a few moments.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Maybe because you’re curious, intensely curious. You weren’t willing to go along with what you saw. This particular anti-memetic seems to require a certain sort of apathy to work, one that you don’t have. As for me, well maybe it’s because you’re here? We’d have to run some tests to confirm all this, which we don’t have time for right now.
Dr. Gerald Lyn resumes writing glyphs in his notebook.
Sam Cooper: How did you get them to put up with…. well everything?… Like I …. They wouldn't even let me… put my damn mop where I wanted… you just don't talk to people?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well, I am a fairly accomplished researcher. Not everyone can do what I'm attempting right now.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: However… if we're being honest… Site Director Graham and I go fairly far back. The Foundation had a need, and I like puzzles, but not people. We made it work.
Sam Cooper: Huh… friends in high places.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Indeed.
Sam Cooper: Okay… I'm really starting to fade…
Camera feed begins to heavily distort
It is pointless to resist, this will all be over soon…
Dr. Gerald Lyn shakes Sam Cooper's shoulder.
Dr. Gerald Lyn No no! Stay with me! I've almost got something here!
Sam Cooper starts awake.
Sam Cooper: Ok… but no more easy street, you've got to answer a hard… question. It's the only thing… gonna keep me awake, you hear?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Fine, shoot.
Dr. Gerald Lyn begins working faster.
Sam Cooper: Are you gonna… talk to her?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No co…
Dr. Gerald Lyn takes and releases a deep breath.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Yes probably. I'm still thinking of what to say.
Sam Cooper: Don't think too hard… What matters is you … just talk. Be yourself.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: That's what everyone says, but suppose you're an anxious person that doesn't do well with people.
Sam Cooper: That's not the whole you… it might be hard to… hear… but people like you…. I like you.
Dr. Gerald Lyn Looks up briefly.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I like you too, Sam…
Dr. Gerald Lyn continues furiously scribbling in his notebook. Sam Cooper starts laughing weakly.
Sam Cooper: You know? I didn’t think this was how I was finally gonna see your office.
Dr. Gerald Lyn laughs–he writes a few more glyphs and tears the page off.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well, let's see if this works…
Dr. Gerald Lyn walks over to his door with the paper, and positions it in Dr. Sadie Ederne's eyesight, she doesn't respond. He lets out an audible sigh and heads back to his desk, thinking.
Sam Cooper: Didn't… work?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No, but I've reverse engineered things completely.
Sam Cooper: What do you… do, just put… the opposite thing in?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: It doesn't quite work like that. This type of cognitohazard requires a suggestion, the one encoded in there was "lay down your burdens." I tried "remember your burdens."
Sam Cooper lets out a faint laugh.
Sam Cooper: That's not very… appealing.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: What could I put instead?
Sam Cooper: Try "remember what you lost." That's what got you out.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Hmm…
Dr. Gerald Lyn puts the paper back on his desk, and scribbles a few more marks on it
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Okay, let's try again.
Sam Cooper: Hope this one works, I'm …. really fading… here.
Dr. Gerald Lyn places the paper in Dr. Sadie Ederne's eyesight. She doesn't move for a moment, and then she blinks a few times.
Dr. Sadie Ederne: Gerald?
Dr. Gerald Lyn nods, with a smile crossing his face.
Dr. Sadie Ederne: What's happening?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No time to explain. Take this and get to the copier. Make a few and show them to everyone you can find, then get them to do the same. Meet me in the medical wing after.
Dr. Sadie Ederne nods, taking the paper, and running off down the hallway.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Alright Agent Cooper, time to get you fixed up!
Sam Cooper: Yeah….
Dr. Gerald Lyn helps Sam Cooper up, and they both begin hobbling to the medical wing.
03-10-2015
CK Reality Restructuring Scenario Incident SCP-8294-CK Debriefing report.
Foundation researchers reformulated SCP-8294-S1 to a sound wave and broadcast it to the general population, after which there was a complete negation of further anomalous effects related to SCP-8294. No affected subjects realized they were under any anomalous influence. The nature of SCP-8294-S1 has completely negated the effects of SCP-8294-CH1. The Foundation has dispatched teams to remove materials bearing SCP-8294-CH1. However, considering the large distribution and anti-memetic properties of these materials, complete removal may prove impossible.
Once SCP-8294 no longer had a critical mass of humanity under its influence, most changes to reality were reversed. The Foundation has calculated a 98% reversal of consensus reality
Location: Dr. Gerald Lyns Office.
The footage shows Dr. Gerald Lyn seated behind his desk working on his computer. Papers are strewn about. Sam Cooper walks in.
Sam Cooper: Gerald, I have some bad news for you, buddy!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Hmm?
Sam Cooper: Looks like we’ll be working together a while longer. Guess who was appointed the Lead Agent for SCP-8294 cleanup detail?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Well, considering I requested it, it’s no surprise to me!
Sam Cooper laughs.
Sam Cooper: Guess I warmed up on you, huh?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: Nothing of the sort, you’re simply the most qualified person for the job.
Sam Cooper grins, and then looks downwards.
Sam Cooper: Unfortunately, DX47 is still gone.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I heard. A 98 percent restoral is pretty good for crises of this nature, but that doesn’t bring your friends back.
Sam Cooper takes a deep breath.
Sam Cooper: So do you think this thing is gone for good?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I’m undecided, what are your thoughts?
Sam Cooper: I dunno, I just can’t shake the feeling that it's still out there… watching and waiting.
Dr. Gerald Lyn: We’ll need to keep monitoring.
There’s 10 seconds of silence.
Sam Cooper: Hey, we’re organizing another poker game tonight. You in?
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I must decline, I have another engagement.
Sam Cooper: Oh, do tell!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: No comment.
Sam Cooper: It’s fine, Sadie already told me you have plans!
Dr. Gerald Lyn: I think I’ll leave it at that. I believe you have an operation to get to.
Sam Cooper nods, laughing.
Sam Cooper: I won’t let you down! Have fun tonight.
Sam Cooper turns and leaves the office.