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Currently listing 572 SCPs.

SCP-L499 by

popsioak

08 Oct 2026 19:46

+30
2 Comments💬︎

SCP-9256 by

DFAstillo91

29 Sep 2026 20:11

+25
3 Comments💬︎

"God, what can a good girl do for fun around here?"

SCP-5550-J by

ForkishAG

14 Sep 2026 16:03

+2
4 Comments💬︎

SCP-267-DE by

Dr Nieliux

08 Sep 2026 22:53

+3
4 Comments💬︎

SCP-1774-JP by

C-Dives

07 Sep 2026 10:00

+4
1 Comments💬︎

SCP-9917 by

Poktay

02 Sep 2026 21:45

+3
4 Comments💬︎

SCP-1552-JP by

C-Dives

20 Aug 2026 10:15

+3
1 Comments💬︎

Filepage: SCP-1552-JP

Filename: 3351437405_9a9fa2846d_z.jpg
Title: 1529_judge
Author: Lars Upon Thars
Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/cleanupkid/3351437405
License: CC BY 2.0
Note: Edited by ukit.

SCP-1494-JP by

C-Dives

17 Aug 2026 02:26

+10
1 Comments💬︎

Filepage: SCP-1494-JP

Filename: 7121147773_5c497ca78a_m.jpg
Title: ﾑﾘﾑﾘy
Author: m-louis .®
Source: Flickr
License: CC BY-SA 2.0

SCP:/4000-JP/Document/Incōdex-Processed-File.Doc by

C-Dives

14 Aug 2026 13:20

Fig. 1.1. Semantic Agitation Containment Cell, internal video capture.

Fig. 1.2. Fourth-Generation H███████-Model Conceptual Agitation Chamber.

Item #: SCP-4000-JP

Object Class: Safe

Special Containment Procedures: Referring to SCP-4000-JP by any name, title, or epithet other than its designation is restricted. Use of such names is partially permitted only when referring to pre-containment SCP-4000-JP, and must be explicitly stated as merely former names or variants predating its designation as 'SCP-4000-JP.'

This document and its supplementary materials refer to SCP-4000-JP prior to containment. Accordingly, for the purpose of preventive measures against potential containment breach, this document uniformly color-codes¹ and distinguishes the anomaly's designation whenever it is referenced.

SCP-4000-JP is to be contained within one of the Unnumbered Sites² operated by Foundation 81-Region, which is colloquially known as the 'Japanese Branch' (Fig. 1.1). The facility is equipped with a custom-modified Conceptual Agitation Chamber (Fig. 1.2) as its containment cell to continuously separate all nomenclative elements from the anomaly, except for 'SCP-4000-JP' which functions as a semantic imprint. At present, names, titles, and epithets previously associated with SCP-4000-JP prior to containment can be used without issue.

Handling of SCP-4000-JP based on Incōdex Processing is considered essential to assist the aforementioned procedures and to maintain the anomaly's self-containment state. While the use of pronouns is permitted, containment site personnel must consciously and consistently refer to SCP-4000-JP using the designation 'SCP-4000-JP' to the extent that it does not unduly impair communication or readability.

Fig. 2.1. The first 'Administrator,' W██████ F████.

Description: SCP-4000-JP is a consciousness bound to the title known as 'the Administrator.' Originally established as a position for the individual holding supreme decision-making authority within the Foundation’s early stages (Fig. 2.1), the Administrator's responsibilities were subsequently transferred to the O5 Council consisting of thirteen members. Consequently, the title itself had long been used solely as an honorary position.

The precise timeframe when SCP-4000-JP first manifested its anomalous properties has not been determined. One established fact is that at a certain point, the title of 'Administrator' itself acquired self-awareness. Although this consciousness initially lacked a distinct physical form, it gradually began to invade the psyches of multiple Foundation personnel who had been granted the title of 'Administrator,' using their bodies to exert influence upon the baseline reality.

SCP-4000-JP inherently possesses Q-HEARTS class logokinetic properties, and while its effects produce a wide variety of outcomes, its mechanism of action is extremely simple; specifically, it is able to interfere with the structure of reality in ways aligned with the multiple meanings and contexts associated with nomenclative terms³. These properties allow SCP-4000-JP, in theory, to bring any nominable object under its control and render it inert.

Its anomalous properties and the title associated with SCP-4000-JP enabled it to exercise the highest decision-making authority within the Foundation, once held by the title of 'Administrator,' in an anomalous and unrestricted manner. Through this, SCP-4000-JP restructured the Foundation into a strict top-down organizational hierarchy and redefined the individual at its apex as the Administrator itself.

It is presumed the effects of this alteration swiftly propagated into the consciousness of all known Foundation personnel; any dissonance regarding the abrupt changes failed to surface within the Foundation. Based on these circumstances, it is believed that SCP-4000-JP seized control of the Foundation instantly and without any opportunity for countermeasures, effectively placing it in a state of prolonged operational failure.

Fig. 3.1. Diagram of the Foundation's direct jurisdiction areas after reorganization. Influence over each area is stronger as the color becomes darker (███).

Addendum: The Foundation does not fully grasp the full picture of events following the takeover by SCP-4000-JP, for the reasons stated above. The information source currently considered most accurate for speculating on this period is the set of documents provided to the Foundation by GoI-α-019 ('Serpent's Hand') under Agreement Α19-4000-F.

While this collection of documents was composed with excessively ornate language and a perspective lacking objectivity⁴, due to the terms of the agreement, it has been cited and included in this report with minimal alteration, taking into account the possibility of embellishments, inaccuracies, and false information. For details on the impacts arising from SCP-4000-JP, see [Recovered Entries]. For the incident leading to the Foundation's functional restoration, see [Document 4000-JP:2A] and [Document 4000-JP:2B].

Based on these documents, it appears that the reorganization initiated by SCP-4000-JP aimed to maximize the Foundation's control over anomalous phenomena. Despite the Foundation's current operations being tolerated by major global powers as exceeding governmental jurisdiction, the initiative pursued by SCP-4000-JP was far more radical; its paramount objective was to annihilate, assimilate, or integrate all competing groups-of-interest, thereby solidifying the Foundation's position as the sole global organization with exclusive control over anomalies.

This endeavor was recorded as having been nearly successfully achieved shortly after its commencement due to SCP-4000-JP's properties (Fig. 3.1). While influential groups-of-interest were disarmed by SCP-4000-JP's principle-altering abilities, Serpent's Hand persisted as the last major resistance force against the Foundation through two factors: its possession of occult counter-knowledge against Q-HEARTS class logokinetic threats, and its base of operations being located within the paranormal extradimensional realm known as ‘the Wanderer's Library’.

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► Recovered Entries

▼ Accessing content. Please wait a moment.

REQUEST="Entries_of_SH"
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[ACCESS: GRANTED]

The Foundation 'Administrator'

　　　　　、　　　、　　　　　　　　　　　　　、　　　　¹

Conspectus

Throughout human history, there have always been the Jailers. Those who label things beyond comprehension as world-corrupting ”anomalies” to be locked away and watched over. They eventually began calling themselves the 'Foundation.' The Foundation was never anything but an insufferable meddler, yet we had tolerated their existence as a necessary evil²³.

But the tide has turned. The rise of the so-called 'Administrator' has driven the Jailers into madness. The apocalypse foretold by the Book of Revelation has not come. There is no civilizational collapse, no planetary destruction. And yet, unbeknownst to the public, the liveliness of the dark world is being painted over with a cold, clean silence.

All that remains is the swirling oppression enveloping the air and the signs bearing the name of the Foundation.

Illustration

Excerpted from the Fifth Book of Apocryphal Visions. It is believed to have prophesied the awakening of the Administrator and the current situation where the Foundation seeks to dominate the world⁴.

Knowledge

Traits: While its most well-known form is that of a European man in a suit, the Administrator has no fixed appearance. It likely possesses no physical body and can possess any Foundation member granted the title. Even if its body is destroyed, it can revive by borrowing the flesh of someone appointed as the new Administrator⁵⁶.

The qualities currently manifesting in the Administrator are considered pure expressions of power. It is the flawless essence that encompasses all, one of the most ancient laws from which nothing can escape 　　 the power of Names. Among its most notorious abilities, the Administrator can seize others' true names. Even if they flee to the other side of the Earth, they cannot escape its power once their name is known. And this condition is not even necessary at close range⁷.

And the Administrator rules all things through naming. It is widely known that the act of naming signifies, in cognitive linguistics, the recognition and definition of the world, and in cultural customs, the proof of master-servant relationships such as investiture or granting parts of one's own name to retainers. We know firsthand that the power of the Administrator to wield this freely is an authority equivalent to grasping the very soul of the other.

The new names assigned by the Administrator can impose upon their bearers destinies matching the qualities they represent. Just as Prometheus, who bore the name “the one with foresight,” ultimately undertook the role of bestowing divine fire upon humanity to let them reign over the earth⁸⁹. The Eastern concept known as '名詮自性' expresses this most succinctly¹⁰.

DEATH TO THE TYRANT!¹¹

Nature: The reason the Administrator is considered the most dangerous entity lies not in its power, but rather in this very nature.

The Administrator behaves like a more grotesquely satirized version of the Jailers. It 'Secures' to monopolize anomalies, 'Contains' to fill the gaps in iron cages, and 'Protects' to subjugate everything under its control.

The Administrator often wields its power unreservedly for these three principles. Those stripped of their revered ancient titles are degraded by their new designation, 'SCP-XXXX,' branded as beings to be managed by the SCP Foundation, and denied the right to resist. The world is now filled with a line of pitiful, chained gods.

History & Associated Parties: Some believe one of the Old Comrades Whose Names Were Stolen is its true identity. But evidence suggesting the Administrator was summoned from within the Foundation, not from outside, is shown by the existence of that abhorrent procedure they had been carrying out for so long.

The procedure known as Incōdex Standard Containment Protocol can trace its origins to a kind of ritual devised long ago by the Jailers before they adopted the name Foundation. Designed to strip away the mysteries, powers, and individuality of the dreaded, 'unscientific' beings like gods and demons, Incōdex Protocol has been driving the world’s enigma out since the day our suffering began.

This episode does not directly reveal the origin of the Administrator; but it is now the most widely accepted view that the characteristic behaviors outlined in the Nature section serve as sufficient evidence to establish a close connection between the source of its power and the enchantment of Incōdex Protocol¹².

Approach: Do not approach it under any circumstances. You will almost certainly have your name seized and be reduced to a prisoner managed by a number. In the current situation where no method to defeat the Administrator has been found, there is nothing we can set in motion.

Observations & Stories

Now all the world's wonders have fallen silent. The Tangential armaments the Global Occult Coalition once boasted, the bizarre exhibitions of Are We Cool Yet?, the embodiment of MEKHANE assembled by the Church of the Broken God, the workshop where Dr. Wondertainment's marvels were born — all are gone. Only this Wanderer's Library remains¹³¹⁴.

Unlike the previous great wars, this one proceeds quietly. Even as thousands of wonders are massacred behind the scenes, not even the slightest ripple of change surfaces in the public world 　　 just as the former Foundation did, the Administrator seems to be taking the utmost care to uphold the Veil. For this reason, some even ponder whether it matters if unworldly beings like us perish in the darkness, as long as the innocent can live soundly within the light the Foundation protects.

But can they truly assert that the Administrator would be satisfied with that? I know worlds where the Foundation reigns supreme and governs everything. When it succeeds in controlling all anomalies, how can they be so certain it won’t begin to control all normality too, just like in those worlds? Right now, the Wanderer’s Library stands as the last bastion defending free spirits in a world increasingly consumed by the Foundation’s insanity.

We pleaded with the Librarians about the gravity of the situation and urged them to invalidate all Library cards in the Foundation's possession. We inspected the pathways leading to the Library and reinforced the gates blocking them to be more robust. As the outside world slipped into the age of darkness, we managed to preserve a sanctuary where we could light a small flame and gather together. We can still fix the world, and make it even better.

The Garden remains the Serpent's place. If the Administrator seeks to cover and confine them, we are the ones who will set them free.

— M. at the Wanderer's Library

Doubt

Time is running out. The information compiled in this article is incomplete and should be frequently updated and revised to derive solutions. We need every possible option now.

I'm convinced that the power of the Administrator doesn't just affect humans. Look around any town; there isn't a single day now when you don't spot the initials S-C-P. It's ridiculous. — Aries.

I am concerned. The Serpent's Hand understands how much significance names hold in sorcery 　　 which is precisely why we have recorded things using initials and nicknames. But with matters having escalated to this point, even that carries risk. I likely won't be contributing here for a while. — [Unsigned]

Unsigned one, you need not fear. Even if it is the all-powerful Administrator, the Librarians will not permit any alteration of the cardholder list by anyone but themselves. The Wanderer's Library embodies a power worthy of reverence in its very name. — 濛.

Does anyone know where that thesis analyzing the Neverwere as the true identity of the Administrator went? I think it's interesting enough to be worth sharing! — Jol/T.

Sorry, Jol/T. I haven't a clue. Lately we've been swamped taking in refugees who've escaped the guards' pursuit and checking their identities. It's fortunate for them that this Library is so vast and complex, though. — Raging B.

Is the Serpent's Nest just going to sit back and watch until every last mystery of this world is Incōdexed? Don't those guys serve as our top brass for times like this!? — F.C.

Watch your words. What you misunderstand is that those dwelling in the Nest are not rulers, but sages who offer us counsel. Within the Hand, a loose gathering, no one stands above another, nor does the Nest exercise power in its own name. — L.角.

That being said, no small number of people are certainly seeking guidance in this deadlocked situation. — Sif.

If you're willing, please listen to my proposal. I don't think you'll find it a waste of time. — L.S.

"L.S."! The real deal!? One of the greatest spellcasters of our time actually showing up! — POLKA.

A legendary figure known only through whispered rumors, huh? I don't think you're impersonating them, but are you really that person? — C.X.

— —

Let me clear up a misunderstanding about myself first. I am not as powerful as the anecdotes have made me out to be, nor am I some shadowy leader manipulating the Serpent's Hand, as you well know. I am merely a secretive person with a slight knack for magic and spatiotemporal physics. — L.S.

— —

I guarantee with my bloodline's honor that she is indeed that damnable witch herself. But what's gotten into you, L.S.? Ever since what happened at the Serpent's Nest, I still think of you as someone who deserves to be beaten with a chair leg. — Morríghan.

I'm not saying you should just shut up and follow orders. But if you're looking for a secret strategy to break the stalemate 　　 I have one in mind. — L.S.

END="Entries_of_SH"

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► Document 4000-JP:2A

▼ Accessing content. Please wait a moment.

REQUEST="DOC-4000-JP_2A"
…
…
…
[ACCESS: GRANTED]

Thus grew the tale of Wanderers:
Thus slowly, one by one,
Its quaint events were hammered out—

Once upon a time 　　 though not so very long ago 　　 there was a girl. …And she lived alone. This was because she had lost her mother several years prior. Her mom had patiently raised her spirited daughter, but her long-suffering diabetes finally seized her heart unexpectedly.

　Fortunately, this did not lead to hardship for the girl. Every month, tens of thousands of dollars were deposited without fail into her mom's bank account from 'Sanderson Chemical Plant.' The reason was unclear. Even after her mom was laid to rest, the money kept coming in, still neatly arranged in rows of zeros.

　While she was sorting out all the tedious paperwork with the help of less-than-close relatives, she thought about her dad.

　Her dad had disappeared when she was little 　　 one day he left home and never came back. She still remembered him throwing her high in the air and teaching her the rules of chess, but the outlines of those memories were becoming quite blurred.

　During the funeral, whenever she had a moment, she would discreetly glance around. She kept wondering if her dad might show up out of the blue, having somehow heard about all this. But no one remotely resembling him ever appeared. Maybe it had been so long that neither of them could remember each other's faces anymore. She thought that, but it was hardly any comfort.

　Nothing could be done about it, so she tried to focus only on everyday thoughts (like math homework or whether to have Chinese for lunch or not). That's how she lived alone at the time.

A boring day

　One day, she was bored stiff in the classroom.

　After all, it was a warm day, and staring at a textbook page having no pictures or conversation on it was enough to make her head feel dull and drowsy.

　As she pondered whether the tedium of spending the remaining forty minutes like this or the bother of making up some excuse to slip out of class was worse 　　 suddenly, a green snake with round eyes slithered across the floor right in front of her.

　Her mind was already in a daze, so she did not flinch in surprise. Besides, she had long since learned about the ecology of cold-blooded animals and found it hardly strange that snakes and lizards became active in such pleasant weather. What was truly odd was that no one else in the classroom seemed to notice the snake, and that the snake raised its head toward her and began to speak.

"Well, there you are. You’re the one. Come with me."

　With that, the snake slithered through the narrow gap of the door, its vivid green scales shimmering as it went.

　She was stunned for a moment, but soon realized she had never seen or heard of such a snake. She knew, because she sometimes browsed the various books left in her dad's study, that snakes capable of speaking human language were not listed in any biology encyclopedia.

　She was honest with the sudden, swelling curiosity in her heart. She decided to take the snake's invitation and take a bite of the fruit of knowledge. Fortunately, this classroom was not nearly as appealing a place as the Garden of Eden, so she felt no regret whatsoever about leaving.

The green snake

　She stood up and chased after it, and in the shade of the trees just outside the school grounds, the snake was coiled up waiting for her.

　Seeing her run towards it, the snake ‘lifted’ a pocket watch from somewhere, hooking it onto the tip of its tail, and checked the time with a smile (snakes don't have cheeks, but to her it definitely looked like one).

"Alright. Thanks to you coming properly, I won't be late. I appreciate it."

"Wow. You really do talk." All traces of sleepiness vanished from her mind. "Where is your natural habitat? What's your scientific name?"

　Truthfully, the only reason she asked about its habitat and scientific name was to make herself sound knowledgeable and smart, but the snake answered earnestly, “Elaphe climacophora, also known as the Japanese rat snake or Aodaishō, endemic to Japan.”

　The snake then added, “I'm not venomous, so feel free to come closer.” She took him up on his offer and sat a bit closer. Naturally, this was her first time having a snake itself explain its own lack of venom.

“So, what did you want from me, Mr. Snake? You must have a reason for telling me to follow you.”

“I’m just a messenger. For L.S. We need your help.”

　Huh. The first thing that popped into her head when she heard L and S was Law School, which conjured up only the absurd image of trainee lawyers raising a Japanese rat snake next to their legal books.

“This L.S. you mentioned 　　 ”

　Then suddenly, the sunlight filtering through the trees was blocked. She stopped talking and looked up to find a man in a gray jacket standing right in front of her. He crouched down slightly and said, “Say, what are you doing here?” Worried he might find out how she had skipped school, she gave a vaguely evasive explanation.

“I see. Look, I’m working for Super Cute Pets Inc. and we’re looking for this one critter that ran away from its owner. A green snake.”

　Snake. The word made her glance beside her, but the snake had disappeared without a trace. “Did you see it?” The jacket-clad man asked, staring intently at her.

　His eyes looked like perfectly clear lenses. Yet the focus of those lenses was fixed not on her, but somewhere far off in the distance. Like being observed through a magnifying glass or microscope, it was an uncomfortable feeling like that.

　Her “I didn't” was not a lie or anything; she just wanted to end the conversation as quickly as possible. At her answer, the jacket-clad man said, “Hmm,” followed by, “Well then, did anything unusual happen?” When she silently shook her head, he went “Hmm” again and stood up straight from his crouched position.

“If you see it, please come tell me. I’m still checking around here.”

　When the jacket-clad man walked away, she let out a sigh. Just being in front of him had somehow made her feel suffocated. Then she heard a voice say, “That was close.” It was the snake’s voice. When she looked beside her again, the snake was there, as if it had been there all along.

“Their real name is the Foundation. Their job is to lock away folks like me.”

　So said the snake, though she did not quite understand. True, if it were some massive, speckled anaconda from the Amazon rainforest, it might be better suited to remain calm in a tank; but the snake before her was not that kind.

“You said you weren't venomous, right? And you're intelligent enough to talk.”

“The Foundation won't listen to reason. They used to know how to sit down at the table for talks, but now everyone there has the same look in their eyes. A look that doesn't see us as living creatures with blood running through our veins.”

“Hmm, well, I kinda get what you mean,” she said, recalling the jacket-clad man. Those creepy, lense-like eyes. She focused on the upper-left space in her field of vision to recall them more clearly… just as the jacket-clad man himself came sprinting into view. He was accompanied by several suited colleagues, all of whose gazes were fixed on the snake beside her.

　Without thinking, she scooped up the snake and dashed deeper into the woods.

“Why did you grab me?” the snake asked, but she was too out of breath from running to say more than, “Was that not okay?” The jacket-clad men disappeared from view for just a few seconds, but they apparently had not been completely shaken off and were already closing in on her again.

The hole

“No, I meant it was a good judgment. You don’t need to answer from here, just follow my lead.” She nodded at the snake’s words and ran, following its guidance.

　They advanced along the muddy path 　　

　Then turned and kept going 　　

　At the end, a thicket came into view. Just as the snake had said, “There's a hole beneath the thicket,” there was indeed something looking like a snake's burrow. Though small in diameter, it seemed incredibly deep, its bottom invisible, giving off an eerie aura like an old well.

“Jump into it. No matter how distant the destination, the Way will bring you there.”

　So this is a wormhole, she thought. This too was described in the physics book from her dad's study. Most of the complicated explanations had been skimmed over, but that phrase, illustrated with a diagram, had stuck in her memory. 'It is a strange hole connecting different spacetime, much like a bookworm gnawing through many pages of a book.'

　By then, she could already hear the footsteps of the jacket-clad men approaching. Summoning her courage, she leaped toward the hole. Surprisingly smooth and without any snags despite its appearance, the hole swallowed her whole. It became an increasingly steep downward slope, and soon felt like she was falling straight down a huge atrium.

　Falling.

　Endlessly.

　The shaft was pitch black, yet oddly enough, she could see her surroundings. Only at her feet was there nothing to be seen… but she knew this was not due to the darkness, but because the bottom of the hole lay even deeper. In other words, she was still falling within the shaft.

Toward the bottom

“The Foundation can’t understand the Knock needed to traverse this Way. We can safely assume we’ve escaped.”

　As it spoke, the snake glided through the air toward her. Just like NASA training, she thought. Thanks to her dad’s books, as usual.

　Just as a roller coaster offers that sensation of floating upward during a drop, an airplane's steep descent creates zero gravity inside the cabin. The same principle likely explained why she and the snake floated in the air as they fell through this tunnel.

　Perhaps because she was pondering this, she felt she saw an aerospace engineering book from her dad's study on the wall 　　 No, it wasn't a trick of the eye. The tightly crammed bookshelves. Maps and paintings hung on hooks. She recognized every single one. On what looked like a sideboard she passed, there was even a jar of apricot jam, her mom's all-time favorite.

　…Though someone must have eaten most of it because it was nearly empty.

“The Way isn't a physical existence, so the deep psyche of those who pass through… In this case, your memories can reflect there sometimes.”

　Memories, huh. She gazed at the surroundings, thinking deeply about her mom and dad, for the first time in a long while. Then she gasped. She remembered the rules her dad had taught her long ago. They were two: 〈Be honest with your parents〉 and 〈Be polite to others〉.

“My bad, I should've asked your name before your homeland.”

“Oh, thank you for the courtesy. As I mentioned earlier, I'm an Aodaishō, though I'm called Xiao as an individual.” Xiao lightly wrapped the tip of its tail around her finger in lieu of a handshake. “Since we're at it, I suppose I should ask your name too.”

“I'm Alison, Alison Chao!”

She 　　 Alison 　　 introduced herself with such lively enthusiasm. And that was precisely the beginning of the strange tale that would draw Alison into its midst.

The fall felt long enough that it seemed to pierce straight through the Earth. Then it abruptly ended, with a thud. Thud-thud-thud. With that sound, Allison was dumped into a light-filled space. Fortunately without a scratch, she sprang to her feet and saw they were buried beneath a pile of sticks and dead leaves.

　The sticks and leaves had been spewed out like an avalanche from a single, antiquated door, as far as her eyes could tell. She called it 'a single door' because it was not attached to a wall; it stood alone in this place. Nevertheless, the door seemed to connect to the bottom of the very pit Allison and Xiao had just fallen through.

　Wow, this really is a wormhole. As Alison marveled, the door slammed shut with a bang! and vanished instantly. Only the metal doorknob remained as a trace, but even that gradually faded into the air over time. It was all utterly bizarre, but Alison's boundless curiosity found it rather delightful.

“Now, we made it safely to the Library.”

　It was only with Xiao's words, finally crawling out from among the leaves, that Alison truly understood what kind of place this was. Of course, she had looked around properly even before being told, but she had not been able to properly connect her knowledge with the scenery. Something about this place was quite different from any library Alison knew.

　Or rather, it was completely different. Because… it was far too vast!

Looking up at the bookshelves

“Welcome. To the sanctuary of knowledge and the Serpent's scales, the One True Wanderer’s Library.”

　Unheeding Xiao's welcoming words, Alison found herself captivated by the countless bookshelves lining the space. If she had to describe it, it was a pleasant chaos stirring her rigid mind. Books of so wildly varied content, authors, publication years, and language were crammed onto the shelves regardless of condition, binding, or size, coexisting right before her eyes.

　Unfamiliar titles kept drawing Alison's attention 　　 'A Certain Mathematical Conjecture: Genesis Testament (Vol.14)', 'Lord Blackwood and the Graveyard of the Immortals', 'Records of the Vast Sky: An Unabridged Translation', 'hamster and make pills and capitalism', et cetera 　　 just as she reached for one, a dull thump echoed from nearby.

　Looking over, she saw a woman with unusually bluish skin, who had been browsing books a short distance away, pinned to the floor by a strange figure. It had a texture vaguely reminiscent of a clay statue and dangled a brass lantern from its left hand. The blue-skinned woman was screaming foul-mouthed curses, but the figure offered no reply.

　And rightly so, for its face showed no sign of what might be called a mouth.

“That's one type of Librarian here,” Xiao said, sounding less like it was explaining a job title and more like talking about a local wildlife. “They're the guides of this place, and also the enforcers of the rules.”

“Rules for this library? What kind of ones?”

“Just the basics. Don't damage books, don't steal them, return them on time. And don't harm the Library or its patrons. …It looked like she suddenly struck a book.”

　Even as she was dragged away by the Librarian, the screaming woman still swung her fist at the book lying on the floor. Titled ‘One Hundred The Only One Reason You Should Punch Sharks’, it clearly had a crescent-shaped dorsal fin. And if Alison's eyes were not deceiving her, it seemed to have ‘swum’ back into its original shelf spot.

“We'll save the Library tour for later. If L.S. sees you with a book gnawed through your head, that'd be a disaster.”

He's human (probably)

　Watching Xiao crawl into the gap between the bookshelves, Alison hastily followed after it.

　As she delved deeper into the Wanderer’s Library, it became increasingly apparent that this place lay beyond the world she knew. One of the reasons was the Library’s patrons, who were just as peculiar as the books lining its shelves.

　There were only a handful of people who looked 'ordinary humans', aside from Allison. Even one of that handful started lengthening their neck by three feet when they dropped a book, leaving Allison wide-eyed.

　A giant ant wearing a top hat, a carpet with tails, a floating mass of bubbles, a nun whose face waxed and waned… Seeing these seemingly fearsome beings carrying books to nearby seats, exchanging hushed academic discussions, and otherwise behaving like typical library patrons struck Alison as an amusing kind of wonder.

　As she stared at the scene with a degree of decorum, Alison began to notice one common trait among many of them. They all seemed uniformly dispirited, wounded, depressed, and thoroughly exhausted.

“That's because they're ‘anomalous,’” Xiao answered her question. “The Foundation deemed them anomalies to be eliminated, so they barely escaped with their lives to the Library. There's no other safe haven left for them.”

“The Foundation again? They don't seem that dangerous here. Is there any reason they're being hunted by the Foundation?”

“In the past, the Foundation might have explained themselves. But now, they’re driven solely by the ideology of how they should be. It’s all because of this madman called the Administrator.”

　The Administrator. Just hearing the name caused the people around them to flinch slightly, as far as Alison could tell. Their reactions ranged from surprise to irritation, but the underlying emotion they all shared seemed to be fear.

　When Alison asked in a whisper if the Administrator was really that scary, Xiao replied, “He's scary, powerful, and evil. Anywhere else was immediately stormed and turned into nothing but smudges under his boots.”

“Yikes… so you and everyone else have no choice but to stay barricaded in this Library for good?”

　Xiao almost nodded 　　 then murmured, “No, I remember we've got a secret plan.”

“I don't know what it is, but L.S. apparently has a master strategy to defeat the Administrator and that's why they summoned you.”

　L.S. again. Alison started thinking again about the mystery of L and S that was interrupted by the man in the gray jacket earlier, but still no plausible answer came to mind. Since they had Xiao running errands, they surely could not mean a Little Snake smaller than Aodaishō.

　Alison finally gave up guessing and asked Xiao about L.S., only to get no real answer. From what she gathered, it seemed to be a person's name, but all she could draw out of Xiao was this unreliable statement:

“I don't know much about what kind of person they are, nor do I have any idea what the name stands for. But they’re apparently amazing, powerful, and smart. The reason my friends and I are working together is because we all believe that if L.S. has a plan, we can defeat the Administrator.”

　Amidst such talk, they traversed the deceptively spacious hall, going back and forth so much they forgot how they’d come to be there, until the two arrived at a black door. “Carry me again, will you?” Xiao requested, so Alison lifted its body and brought it closer to the door.

The Secret Staircase

　Xiao clamped its jaws around the door knocker and struck the door three times in a steady rhythm: knock-knock, knock. From the other side came a question.

“Why does the Serpant have no arms?”

“To stretch its hands boundlessly.

“Then why does the Serpant have fangs?”

“To fend off foes with their sharpness, right beside the wise head.”

　The passphrase Xiao chanted rhythmically seemed correct, for the door opened. A woman stood there, and upon seeing Alison’s face, she beamed, “Looks like things went smoothly!”

　The sparkle in her wide-eyed gaze, tinged with slight surprise, made Alison feel rather flustered as she returned the look. Something in the woman's eyes seemed to stir an indescribable impulse in her.

“Thanks, Xiao. General Ao's recommendation proved spot-on.”

“I'm glad I could meet your expectations. Goodbye then.”

　With that, Xiao began to fade away 　　 But noticing Alison's saddened look, it gently reassured, “It's okay. Nothing bad will happen to you, I promise.” Then, just as it did when first introducing itself, Xiao lightly wrapped its tail around one of her finger. This time, Alison grasped it back, and the two exchanged their own firm farewell handshake.

“Okay, let's start over.” After Xiao left, the woman with the strange eyes spoke to Alison after a pause long enough not to ruin the lingering mood. “Good to see you, Alison. We've been waiting for you.”

“So you're L.S.?”

“Huh? Oh, no, no. I'm Meredith. L.S.'s… henchwoman? Friend? Devotee? Something like that.”

　Ugh, still keeping me in suspense. Meredith must have seen that look on Alison's face, because she flashed another charming smile. “Don't worry! You'll meet her soon enough,” she said before guiding Alison into the room. Inside was a lounge area centered around a fireplace, its flames flickering around the silhouette of a figure seated in a chair.

　Then the silhouette turned to face Alison.

"L.S."

“Yoo-hoo, your long-awaited Ms. Chao has arrived, L.S.”

　Alison strained her eyes to get a better look, but was quickly disappointed.

　The person called L.S. was completely hidden in a pitch-black robe, and even the face was obscured by a white mask.

　Still, she could barely make out that L.S. was female, based on Meredith calling “her” and the build and figure. L.S. motioned to Meredith and said only briefly, “Then prepare for the gathering.” The voice was muffled behind the mask, but it was unmistakably a woman’s voice.

“Understood. Alright then, you two take your time~”

　Once Meredith left, only Alison and L.S. remained in the room, sitting across from each other.

　As she stared at L.S.'s mask, which appeared to be both smirking and scowling, Alison suddenly felt a wave of dread creep over her. It reminded her of a story her dad used to read to her when she was little (for some reason it was always scary stuff).

　It was about old men who believed running over young people with their cars would extend their own lives, and how they always targeted children trying to force their way across the road. …In hindsight, it probably carried a moral lesson about following traffic safety rules, but Alison couldn't help wondering 　　 What if the L.S. standing before her was plotting something similar?

“Not knowing must be unsettling, Alison.” As if reading her mind, L.S. broke the awkward silence. “I intend to answer whatever you wish to know. That’s the least I can do for the person I summoned.”

　Oh dear, what to do. Alison suddenly fretted over this unexpected opportunity. Questions like 'Why are you hiding your face?' 'Why did you bring me here?' 'Who on earth are you?' swirled in her mind. Perhaps she was confused. The first question to slip out was the one at the very front of her mind.

“Um… What does the name L.S. mean?”

　L.S. looked genuinely puzzled even through the mask, then let out a small chuckle. “Alright. I’ll tell you my secret,” she said, and began explaining the origin of this strange name.

“Little Sister as the counterpart to Big Brother, or Lost Sinner… Last Saint… Loki Scar-Lip… People seem to associate various things with my signature, but there's one major oversight. The misconception that my initials start with L and S.”

“Could it be… not initials?”

“Indeed. It began with a bit of mischief. Long ago, when I had to offer my aiōn 　　 eternal time 　　 to a certain god, I cheated the price by removing the A, I, O, and N from my first name.”

　As she spoke, L.S. slowly pulled back the hood of her robe. Brushing aside the long black hair spilling out, she then removed the white mask over her face. Alison had thought nothing could surprise her after all this suspense, but L.S.'s revealed face was enough to make her eyes snap wide open.

　It was Alison's face, in every detail.

“You see, L and S combined with AION spell ALISON. That’s my real name, Alison Chao.”

　Alison 　　 meaning the Alison we’ve been calling 'Alison' throughout this story 　　 stared intently once more at L.S.’s revealed appearance. Indeed, she and the woman before her were identical. L.S. had a much more mature face and a body considerably more developed than Alison's, but setting those aside, it was like looking in a mirror.

“Did your house have a study for your father, too? Did you ever peek at the books in there?”

“Dad's books? Of course I read all sorts.”

“Then you should understand the term ‘multiverse.’ I am you from a different world, though there is a slight divergence in our timelines.”

The fireplace

　L.S. raised her forefinger and gave a flick, and suddenly the flame in the fireplace turned green and began to blaze.

“A combination of flame color reaction and metallurgical magic,” she explained. “It's a familiar trick for me, but you likely are not accustomed to it.”

　Of course, Alison could not use magic. Not only the age, but also where and how she was guided to the Wanderer's Library, when and from whom she had the opportunity to learn magic… These differences between the two were likely what she meant by a divergence in their timelines.

“The Serpent's Hand 　　 my allies are dedicated to spreading essential knowledge because they understand what truly deserves to be kept secret,” L.S. continued. “In my view, secrets can also help protect oneself.”

"So that's why you hide your identity?"

"Yes. Lying and withholding information are entirely different matters. Suppressing things inconvenient to oneself and deceiving the world into believing they don't exist is foolish, but there's no need to expose every detail of one's private life to broad daylight either."

"Ah, the right to privacy."

“Exactly. Xiao has never met me directly, and even those close to me like Meredith don't know my true name. I'd appreciate it if you kept this secret too.”

　Alison nodded… and then realized something a bit troublesome. If she had to refer to someone with the same name as herself (and probably a bit older), how should she address her? Since L.S. and she were, in a way, like sisters, would calling her 'big sis' be too informal?

　When she asked, L.S. smiled again and said, “L.S. is perfectly fine.” For Alison, it was perhaps seeing that smile that truly made her sense that they were both the same Alison Chao. She had not realized it when L.S. wore a mask, but in her smile, she saw a glimpse of her mom.

　Maybe L.S. felt the same way when she looked at Alison.

"Now, does this earn your trust, Alison? I have no intention of harming you, and I won't let anyone else hurt you either."

"I get that, but… why was I summoned in the first place? I heard you needed me for some secret plan to defeat the Administrator, but isn't this some kind of mistake?"

"It's neither a mistake nor an oversight. Do you think I invited you just to show off the Library?" L.S. rose from her chair and extended her hand toward Alison.

"Let's go, Alison. With your help, we can save this world."

"　　 That covers the latest intelligence findings regarding GoI-α-019."

　The secretary concluded the report. In the dimly lit office of Foundation Site-001, the besuited man behind the desk let out a small sigh upon hearing it.

"So the Serpent remains coiled around its last egg. How troublesome."

"As we temporarily scaled back tracking of unsecured anomalies, GoI-α-019’s countermeasure resources began focusing internal efforts. They didn’t sever connections to the baseline dimension promptly because, as expected, refugee camps have been established within the Library."

"The Great Serpent of the Library grows overconfident, I suppose. Its Hand still believes in the chance of turning the tables." The man seated in the shadows grinned, like a predator baring fangs before its prey. "Yet the Garden is not inviolable."

"But our Sig-3 infiltration forces have also been expelled from the Library. Shouldn’t we avoid further pursuit, especially since their domain is ultimately an external dimension?"

"You're merely trying to convince yourself that 'being unable to intervene' equates to 'not needing to intervene.' The Foundation in its former state rephrased such compromise as balance and passed up the best possible solutions, despite the countless 'anomalies' that should have been contained."

"But they weren't always detrimental to normality," the secretary interjected. "I don't understand why you insist on complete control."

　The words made the secretary's body tremble slightly. Perhaps that doubt was the faintest remnant of resistance from the beliefs and virtue he once held.

"Why? You need a reason to obey my orders?"

　Yet the quiet reply instantly erased his resistance, leaving him only with bewilderment at why he had dared to voice such meaningless doubt. He could not even recall the fact that the very being before him had long since painted over all his principles of justice.

"Mankind in its present state has been around for a quarter of a million years, yet only a small fraction of that has been of any significance."

　The entity's behavior was remarkably typical of a Foundation personnel. It wore a suit, seated at a desk, signed papers, listened to reports from its secretary, issued suitable instructions, and delivered speeches to subordinate staff.

"Suppressing beastly instincts through rules, conquering the unknown through the march of wisdom, claiming territory from those who lurk in darkness… that is what we have done for four thousand years. The Foundation could have become the very guiding light of civilizations. But it failed to do so."

　But it actually was a monster born from a single title. Unbeknownst to anyone, the moniker symbolizing the Foundation ended up bestowing a name upon the twisted reflection of the organization, allowing it to manifest as a horror.

"The error to be corrected was always right before our eyes. The Foundation should have established absolute control. There is only one best approach to protect those living in the light 　　 to contain the darkness with utter precision until not a single speck of shadow lingered."

　And so, as granted by its own name, the monster reigned supreme at the Foundation's very pinnacle.

"I administer the Foundation, I administer anomalies, I administer the world. For my name is the Administrator."

END="DOC-4000-JP_2A"

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► Document 4000-JP:2B

▼ Accessing content. Please wait a moment.

REQUEST="DOC-4000-JP_2B"
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[ACCESS: GRANTED]

If you want to borrow books at a library, you usually need identification as a user. The Wanderer's Library was a truly unique place unlike any other, but it adopted a commonplace system for that particular aspect. That is, a Library card.

"That said, the card’s function isn’t limited to borrowing books."

　Seated in a chair beside the Librarian counter, the masked L.S. said this to Alison. The number on the queue ticket in her hand, '3=log₂8', likely meant it would be a little while longer before the Librarian called her name. Probably.

"A Library card bears its holder’s true name. As demonstrated by the Principle of Rumpelstilzchen, one’s true name is a symbolic link directly tied to their soul. Since the Library also holds a duplicate of it, they could do nearly anything they pleased to the cardholders if they wished."

"With such a risk, all we can do is borrow books? That’s not a fair trade-off."

"I believe I said 'not limited to that.' There are significant benefits to entrusting your true name to the Wanderer’s Library. You’ve already heard the rules you must follow here, haven’t you?"

　Alison recalled what Xiao had told her. Let's see… 'Don't damage books, don't steal them, return them on time. And don't harm the Library or its patrons.'

"Possessing the card is a kind of contract. In exchange for entrusting your life to the Library, you receive magical protection according to its rules. The cardholder is guarded from various dangers by ancient magic 　　 including from the power of the Administrator, as long as you remain within the Library."

　At that moment, Alison's heart nearly leapt out of her mouth. Not from the mention of the Administrator, but because an indescribable voice suddenly echoed in her head.

"PATRON NUMBER 3=log₂8, PLEASE COME TO THE MAIN HALL DESK."

The counter

　Alison made her way to the place she had been summoned to, walking at a slight trot, and sure enough, a Librarian was sitting there.

　This one seemed to be a different type from the mouthless figure earlier, as its eyes were covered with bandage-like cloth instead. The Librarian appeared to see her perfectly fine and gestured with a hand extended across the desk as if sliding something along it, with the words, "IT'S YOURS."

　Then, before she knew it, the queue ticket Alison had been holding disappeared. In its place, a green card adorned with brass-colored decorations and outlines now rested in her palm.

"That’s your Library card," L.S. whispered as she glanced sideways at the Librarian walking away. "As I explained earlier, the true name holds great importance. Handle it with care and never lose it."

　Aside from the risks explained… Indeed, the card was truly wonderful. It had the weight of a metal plate, yet its texture nestled against her skin so smoothly it felt almost sucking. As she gripped it tightly, the surrounding sounds vanished for a moment, receding into the distance. It was as if an invisible wall formed around Alison to protect her.

"This also serves as identification within the world of magic, and can be considered a provisional license for an apprentice sorcerer. Simple spells can be cast by pointing the card at the target while reciting the appropriate incantation… Don't try it now, please."

　Alison reluctantly lowered the Library card she had held high. Too bad. She had so many spells she wanted to try 　　 Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo, Ep-pe, pep-pe, kak-ke, or O dead ones, arise!

Nodding as L.S. said, "I'll teach you the basics later," Alison tucked the card into her pocket when she felt a light tap on her shoulder. She turned to face Meredith, L.S.'s friend with those peculiar eyes, standing behind her.

"Everyone's gathered already. Are you ready over there?"

"Yes, just in time," L.S. replied. "Let's go together, to the meeting of the serpents."

　The meeting room they arrived at was unexpectedly small and seemed to be no more than about ten square feet in size. Given that, it was truly a mystery why, no matter how many times Alison counted, there were over a dozen groups of about seven people each inside the room and not a single one of them looked the least bit cramped.

The flag on display

　Oh well. A room that expands to hold more people without changing its dimensions like an optical illusion might not be all that surprising. After all, the attendees waiting inside for the meeting were far more bewildering inhabitants of a whimsical world.

　There was a small dragon. There was a blood-soaked ghost. There was also an ordinary boy fiddling with his phone.

　There was a golem with the word EMETH engraved on its forehead, and a robot looking like something straight out of Star Wars. There was even a holographic anime character. Beside a woman in a kimono was Xiao, who noticed them and flicked its tail.

　All these utterly different beings were gathered around a single round table, a green flag spread out in the center. On the flag was written the name: THE SERPENT'S HAND.

"You're late, L.S."

　Said the cat wearing a pointed hat. The glitter of the decoration formed into the letter M. shone brightly against its midnight-dark fur and hat. The gathered crowd murmured briefly, which made Alison realize it was true that L.S. rarely showed herself in front of people.

"Welcome, my serpentine fellow. I 　　"

"Excuse me!" Interrupting L.S., a man stood up from one of the groups, his face adorned with a multi-headed serpent tattoo.

"Renowned Black Witch, greetings from the Hydra of Greece. Time is finite; let us skip the pleasantries and hear the details of your supposed strategy first. The entire village of Alseids in Leonidio was Incōdexed just the other day. The situation is urgent."

"Of course, we'll act immediately. However, I can't reveal the core of the plan yet. The target is that Administrator… and ultimately, the Foundation. This must be handled with utmost caution and secrecy."

　L.S.'s explanation stirred the crowd again 　　 Now voices of confusion and irritation mingled.

"We need you to tell us now, right here," the cat in the hat sighed audibly. "We're volunteers for a suicide mission, of course we'll follow orders. But we won't risk our lives without any chance of success."

　A chorus of agreement followed. Meredith frowned and whispered to L.S., "Shouldn't we reveal it already?," though she herself seemed eager to know the plan's specifics. Perhaps only those curious enough to find their way to the Library on their own were allowed into the Serpent's Hand.

　L.S. nevertheless remained tight-lipped. A cyclone of distrust and debate immediately swirled through the meeting room.

"　　 Enough with your secrecy! Do you want the Serpent’s Hand to become the second Jailers?!" "Hold on. The power of mystery is fundamental to occultism 　　" "In a world where any magic can be Incōdexed? You didn't even consider that 　　" "The Bookburners said just that and charged straight at them, and even they failed, didn't they?" "　　 I don't like it, but this approach has merit. You fight fire with fire." "You've got to be kidding me. It's suffocating enough just being Incōdexed by them as it is, and now you want more of the Jailer's style 　　"

"Um, excuse me!" Alison raised her hand and called out. All eyes turned to the child interrupting the complicated argument, but with the mysterious word thrown around so many times, her very nature demanded she ask.

"What is Incōdex?"

"…Simply put, Incōdex is the method for beheading fairy tales."

"Incōdex Standard Containment Protocol. The Jailers have dissected the mystical with this scientific scalpel."

　Somewhat perplexed, the cat in the hat began to speak, followed by the tattooed man. The inquisitive people of the Serpent's Hand seemed, in truth, also quite willing to teach. Those who had been arguing moments before started speaking one after another 　　 smoothly, like minstrels.

"Most people are afraid of what they cannot understand. When humanity still huddled together in caves, the nameless things lurking in the darkness had no names. Only a few like us served as intermediaries to coexist with them, though we did so with fear and awe."

"So the forefathers of the Jailers invented a way to avoid fearing incomprehensible mystical beings. The ritual to strip authority and myth from those called gods, demons, fairies, and monsters."

"They don't call me a dragon," said the small dragon. "They call me 'an unidentified reptilian-like species'. Merely a type of creature, not a mythical monster."

"They don't call me a ghost," said the blood-soaked wraith. "They call me 'a Type 4G spectral entity'. Merely something that fits a certain category."

"As time passed, they gradually forgot the meaning and importance of this… The rules began to be loosely disregarded, and deviations from the standard became somewhat tolerated."

"But the name Incōdex and its processing procedures remained. Even in this modern age that has forgotten it was an ancient ritual, it continues to be passed down. As the basic procedure for documentation."

Jailers/Foundation

"They treat us with unemotional coldness…"
"Clinically, omitting embellishment and narrative…"
"Objectively, as if handling inanimate materials…"
"Assigning consistent, origin-less classifications instead of clear ranks or titles…"

"And then designating random item numbers instead of names. This is Incōdex Protocol, the abhorrent documentation procedure and its standards cherished by the Jailers."

　As Alison was left stunned by all the talk, L.S. beside her added a slightly simplified explanation. "Incōdex originates from the Old Latin 'to write into a manuscript,' a term corresponding to 'Encode' in English. In modern usage, encoding refers to converting analog signals into a suitable format for handling. Essentially, Incōdex is for replacing wondrous tales with sterile reports."

　I see. Alison felt she sort of understood why the Foundation was so thoroughly hated. Rounding people up in a heavy-handed manner was one thing, but this sort of people would never get along with folks who made the Library their home base anyway. And apparently their so-called Administrator could twist reality to force their Foundation rules on others, which must make them even more detestable.

"Now then, let's have you address that other question we just found." The cat turned to L.S as it pointed at Alison with its front paw. "Who exactly is this girl? Why is she here?"

　…Come to think of it, earlier they'd been arguing fiercely about whether to reveal the plan. If Alison intended to side with L.S., who wanted to keep the details under wraps, perhaps she should have tried to stay inconspicuous. After all, L.S. was certain she was essential in saving the world, though Alison herself still had no idea what it meant.

　L.S. almost made a gesture of clutching her head, before saying, "I intended to disclose things step by step, but very well," and pushing Alison forward to present her to everyone.

"She is the core of our secret strategy. She is currently the only person in this world capable of defeating the Administrator."

　All eyes turned to Alison in surprise. But the most surprised of all might have been Alison herself.

"This girl?" The cat muttered suspiciously, which was only natural. What could she possibly claim as her own special ability in front of genuine wonders and wizards? The occasional pretend-play where she plays two roles at once?

"Yes. I guarantee it. I discovered her natural talent."

　L.S. said with a composed expression 　　 well, she was wearing a mask, so who knows what her actual face looked like.

　Alison seriously considered shouting NO WAY. What on earth was going on? Even considering L.S. was her alternate-timeline self, saying such nonsense should get her punished by someone. Was there no 'Office of Multiverse Incidents' or something to police this?

"Huh… then you should’ve paid her a little more attention."

　The moment the cat said this, a powerful gust swept past Alison. She heard a thud and turned to see Meredith, who had been beside her just moments ago, pinned against the wall by what looked like a hand made of shadow. Startled by the unexpected sight, L.S. yelled at the cat.

"Midnight, what’s got into you 　　"

"That’s my line. Seems you invited a friend with sticky fingers."

　The shadowy hand yanked what Meredith was holding away. It was a Library card… not hers, but Alison’s. Alison fumbled her pocket, only now realizing the square weight that should have been there was missing.

"Too bad. I thought we could thwart your little scheme."

　Meredith's mutter sent a chill down Alison's spine as she recalled the rule taught to her just earlier: The Library card protects its owner, but once stolen, it becomes their greatest weakness.

　Alison had been protected by Xiao and L.S. before obtaining the card. So Meredith had been waiting for an opportunity when their attention was diverted 　　 She intended to dispose of Alison with minimal effort, without violating the rule forbidding harm to patrons.

"Meredith, why…" L.S. trailed off as she noticed something and stiffened. "No, wait. Who are you? Where did you take Meredith?"

"She is under our protection. Per the Administrator's directive, I borrowed her name."

　With any pretense of disguise gone, Meredith’s tone shifted completely. The charming sparkle had vanished from her eyes, leaving only a glassy, transparent coldness. Just like the gray-jacketed man, only that eerie, observing stare remained.

　The Administrator takes names from people. Taking something means it can also be given to another. Alison remembered a story she had read long ago, about a wicked man who impersonated a missing king and ruled the country for years 　　 To gain a name is to gain a role.

　If someone could freely wield another's true name, could they even become that person themselves?

"It's fortunate we've uncovered your real identity," the tattooed man declared, drawing a bronze sword from thin air and thrusting its tip at her. "Thanks to your blunder, we shall reclaim our kin and all our treasures from the Jailers."

"Want to try torture? You'd be better off giving up." The Foundation agent impersonating Meredith remained expressionless even as murderous Hand members closed in. Whether it was confidence or bravado, her face gave no tell.

"Disrupting your secret plan is merely a secondary objective. We had estimated that once inside, the forces defending the Wanderer's Library could be bypassed from other angles. And we had ample time for the preparatory operations 　　"

　But to Allison, it seemed as if someone beyond the agent smirked mockingly.

"From this moment on, the Library is to be requisitioned as Extradimensional Site-01A, in the name of our Administrator."

The ground shuddered, as the sound of a violin string snapping echoed throughout the Library.

The meeting room's outline began to rapidly dissolve, no one able to stand properly.

L.S. reached out to Alison 　　 she missed her grasp.

Crumpled bookshelves tumbled into the gaping hole at their feet.

She, A1i█on Ch@o was…

・・・

　When she came to, it was a completely white room. There was no furniture or anything else; the only thing present was what appeared to be a black, perfectly square panel mounted on the wall opposite her. It seemed to be a display monitor 　　 At first she thought it was a window to look outside, but this room did not even have a door, let alone a window.

"Good morning, SCP-████."

　Suddenly, a figure in a white lab coat, likely a researcher, appeared on the monitor. As she remained speechless with confusion, the researcher repeated, "Good morning, SCP-████," with the exact same intonation. Only then did she understand that the phrase 'SCP-████' was referring to her.

　She could not accept it. She had always been ██████ ████, and she refused to be called by some arbitrarily assigned name.

"Wait a second, my name is…" "SCP-████, let us begin today’s interview."

"I said my…" "First, would you please elaborate on what you call the 'magic spell', SCP-████?"

　The researcher cut in. It was precisely like a jailer disciplining a prisoner for backtalk. A stern, cold-hearted reminder that she was nothing here but an object managed by a string of codes. A mixture of confusion and terror erupted as a scream of "Don't you dare!" directed at the monitor.

　The researcher looked troubled. Not because of a pang of conscience, but merely a wry smile at the thought of one more hassle to deal, like today was not their lucky day. This attitude made her blood boil even more, and she screamed again, determined to make them call her by name.

"My name is 　　 !"

　No scream came out. As if a thick, dark, viscous lump had lodged in her throat, ██████ froze with her mouth hanging open. Even worse, she could no longer remember her own name.

　SCP-████… SCP-████… Only that call was echoing within the room 　　 she was about to clutch her head when she glanced at her own hands; they were no longer those of a child. Wrinkles marking many years had etched themselves there.

"Good morning, SCP-████. We have a little gift for you today."

　She looked up at the monitor. There stood a different young researcher than before, holding a cardboard sign reading '30th Anniversary of SCP-████ Containment Procedures Established'. ██████ tried to struggle, but the restraints held her back. She wanted to scream, but her tongue was no longer there.

"…lison …Alison!"

　She opened her eyes upon hearing L.S.'s call 　　 and ██████ remembered she was Alison Chao. As she tried to get up wobbly, she realized there was no floor to push off from. Only a void of darkness stretched around her; there was no trace of the Library, and the laws of gravity had likely been shattered too. Alison managed to steady herself by paddling like she was swimming.

　Then, finally, she realized there was another presence in this space besides herself and L.S.; the earlier remark about 'only a void of darkness' should be retracted immediately, but if she may offer an excuse, Alison had not even considered it a living thing. She had just awakened from the worst nightmare of her life, and her brain had been forced to temporarily halt analysis of the thing filling her vision.

　It must have been a serpent. A serpent of such extraordinary scale that it could have coiled around the Earth several times. Its intertwined, colossal body stretched endlessly into the abyss. Its body surface was covered with more scales than all the world's floor tiles and roof tiles combined, and it was even covered in brightly colored feathers, primarily parrot green.

"The Serpent. Nahash and Chief Librarian of the one and only true Library, Nehushtan who governs knowledge and Satan who excels in books. Was it you who helped us?"

　As L.S. removed her mask and asked this, the Serpent answered, "Indeed." Emerging from the darkness with a continental presence, its head rested golden-rimmed reading glasses upon its snout. Before them was the ancient divinity dwelling in the Library’s deepest layers, the very origin of the name of the Serpent’s Hand.

"Then, I offer my deepest gratitude and respect for your mercy. I had thought I had been utterly despised ever since using 'AION' from my name as payment for your favor."

"If you wish to make a fair payment, it is not too late even now," the Serpent flickered its long tongue reminiscent of a bookmark ribbon, like a infernal flame. "But I do not abandon wanderers who walk upon my back for such a trifle. That girl was caught in the Library's collapse and nearly had her soul's time suspended."

　Suspending the soul’s time. Alison instinctively hugged herself. The white room seen earlier was likely not merely a dream; having one’s inherent name stolen and being Incōdexed by the Administrator meant precisely such a fate.

"Thank you, Mr. Serpent," Alison asked timidly. "Um… where did everyone else go?"

"To stable Ways. I can no longer offer them a place of rest. The Librarians are meant to protect the Library, but as its name has been rewritten, it is no longer the Wanderer's Library."

　Alison thought she saw the Serpent's pupils momentarily twist with pain as it spoke. …She hoped it was just her imagination, but the truth was, the Serpent's gigantic form was gradually losing its vivid colors. It reminded her of a diseased mighty tree withering and decaying, or even of those who had been glared at by Medusa's cursed eyes petrifying from the feet up.

"I feel the multitude of names being torn from my being. There may still be some time, yet all that belonged to the Library will be seized and placed within his grasp."

"The cardholder registry as well, I suppose."

　Alison gasped at L.S.‘s words. She had said that when cards were issued, duplicates were also kept by the Library, and that meant patrons were entrusting their true names to it. But the Wanderer's Library had lost both its name and the enigmatic sacredness associated with it. If the unguarded list of true names fell into the hands of the Administrator, it would all be over.

"Yes. Therefore… Black Witch L.S., and you, blessed one Alison Chao. I entrust to you the future of all wanderers…"

　With those words, the Serpent lowered its gigantic body into the abyss 　　 as if coiling itself, or seeking to protect what remained for just a little longer. Only a void of darkness remained around Allison and L.S.; this time, truly.

"What do we do now?" Alison asked L.S., staring blankly at the space where the Great Serpent had been.

"I’ll contact our scattered allies. And we’ll settle this before the Foundation retrieves the registry. Once we bring down the Administrator, everything that was lost will return to its rightful place."

　L.S. held out Alison's Library card. She had thought it was gone along with the Library after the impostor Meredith stole it, but apparently L.S. had kept it safe. Alison reached for the card, but her hand froze. The terror from the white room still clung to her. The terror of standing up to the Foundation.

　Alison was absolutely furious with the Administrator. She wanted to punch him right now and was filled with the desire to save everyone she had met so far. But her body refused to move.

　Perhaps sensing her conflict, L.S. gently wrapped Alison's hand in her own. The warmth of her palm slowly melted the tension in Alison’s body… It was a comforting little charm her mom used to do whenever Alison felt anxious.

"Rest assured. You are protected by the oldest magic your parents cast upon you."

"The oldest magic? What’s that?"

"Your name, Alison. Something I discarded long ago." L.S. smiled.

"Since the dawn of time, parents have bestowed names upon their children, imbuing them with various wishes. For them to grow strong, to become admirable figures… And for their children to be protected from all forms of calamity. While the Administrator wields the power to name as his weapon, it is also the power of a name that can ultimately bring him down."

　Then L.S. explained the full picture of the secret strategy she had devised to Allison. The truth that was revealed 　　 It was nothing short of an incredible twist of destiny.

"Alright. Let me state it again, Alison. You are the one and only who can defeat the Administrator. With your assistance, this world can be saved."

　Will you lend me your help? Facing L.S.’s question, Alison tightly closed her eyes, which had been wide open in shock. When she opened them again, a light of resolve shone in her pupils. Within the empty darkness spreading around them, a door had appeared unnoticed.

　It was the Way. The Way Alison must walk to reclaim what was dear to her.

Let's go.

　Site-001 was filled with the piercing, shrill ringing of a bell that tore through the silence.

　When this facility was built, the Foundation had implemented a system where distinct alarm tones were used depending on the type of incident. So at Sites where the period's equipment remained, personnel could still immediately know which emergency manual to consult just by hearing the tone. If it was a siren, it meant fire; if it was a beep, it meant containment breach.

　Among these, the bell specifically signaled an attack by a group-of-interest.

"Identification of the assailant: GoI-α-019, Serpent's Hand."

　With an attitude of I figured, the Administrator responded without so much as a twitch of an eyebrow to the secretary's report. After all, the only major resistance force against the Foundation left in the world today was them.

　If anything was unexpected, it was that they launched their assault through the numerous portals appearing throughout the Site. Guerrilla warfare erupting everywhere without regard for outer walls or security systems proved troublesome enough to complicate the situation even at Site-001, which was supposed to have the highest level of security in place.

"The Serpent. Still struggling even without limbs?"

　The Wanderer's Library was constructed in an extradimensional plane where many worlds converged. The Administrator knew full well that this feat was made possible by the Great Serpent’s ability to freely open gates to the Ways. For the mythical entity that governed the Library, something like this would be the easiest of tasks.

　It would be some time before complete control over all of Extradimensional Site-01A, which used to be the Wanderer's Library, could be secured. Even rendered dysfunctional, it was renowned for its vast information and labyrinthine complexity. Magical laws entangled like the roots of an ancient tree concealed the cardholder registry behind the Serpent's coiled body.

　But paradoxically 　　 Just a little more time, and he could purge those pesky Serpent's Hand scoundrels from the world.

　The Administrator cannot be killed by the Hand. The concept of death does not apply to his fundamentally intangible essence, and he can even neutralize approaching assassins by seizing their names.

　Should the physical body he currently inhabits be destroyed, however, the Administrator would lose his connection to reality for a brief moment. It would mean that the effort to usurp the Serpent's position as master of the Library would be interrupted, even temporarily.

　Such a situation was unacceptable to the Administrator, whose foremost objective was the Foundation’s absolute control over the world. To achieve the final task of neutralizing the Serpent's Hand and establish a new order as swiftly as possible, not a single minute or second could be wasted.

"Quality over quantity, then."

　The Administrator murmured this as he gestured for the secretary to approach. "What was your name again?" he inquired.

"I am 　　"

"Sure, but that's not right."

　He had no need to hear the answer. Interrupting, the Administrator overrode the name that should have been spoken with a new one. To receive a name was to receive a role. His power could even recreate legendary figures exactly as they were in legend.

"Your name is Dr. Alto Clef. It always has been."

Run!

With the full force of the Serpent's Hand directed at it, the assault on Site-001 descended into utter chaos. The abyssal demon summoned from the magic circle was silenced by a single shot from an SV-98 sniper rifle, while the mechanoid incited by the handlebar-mustachioed scientist bounded around, babbling incoherent gibberish to disrupt the spellcasting.

　Shadow hands crawling to strangle guards were extinguished by the blinding flashes of Molotov cocktails and bombs hurled at them. Outside the window, a kaijumancer rode a crocodile-octopus hybrid creature, towards which an egg-shaped bipedal battle tank and a blazed-up school bus were charging.

　Blocking L.S. and the others as they tried to advance deeper into the facility was a man grinning smugly, a shotgun slung over his shoulder. While some might call him 'that bastard', the Serpent’s Hand knew his name well 　　 and they also knew perfectly well that the original version of him should have been dead for about five years now.

　His third eye opened, and a reality bending force field engulfed the entire corridor. Had neutralizing the field been delayed even a fraction of a second, they would have simultaneously received bullets to the head. L.S. fired blue projectiles of energy from her fingers as a counterattack, only for Dr. Clef to dispel them with a single blink. However…

"If you really wanted to scare us into retreating, you should've brought Agent Ukulele from back when he was slaying the Goddess."

　He was not worth the fear. Even with the same role name, it was only natural for the actor's skill to make a difference. While the thrusting bronze spears and coordinated attacks with poltergeists strained his third eye’s processing capacity, L.S. taunted Dr. Clef.

"Why don’t you borrow a better name now? Perhaps the Coalition’s 'Scary Lady' D.C. Al Fine, or Tilda Moose the Disgraced would serve you well. Or 　　"

　L.S. was aware of the blind spot in this seemingly omnipotent power of naming. It was a flaw so trivial it hardly warranted attention, yet it was also the only opening she could exploit.

"As expected, the Administrator can't change a name he once assigned to another, can he?"

　She had no time to wait for an answer. A sudden camera flash blinded her eyes, and a saber swept past the space where her throat had been a moment before. Even with still-blurred vision, she could tell the figure before her had tripled. And a landslide of apple seeds tumbling down the corridor announced yet more reinforcements.

　In the midst of fierce battles… no one noticed Alison. Holding the cloaking cap L.S. had given her in place with one hand so it would not slip off, she dashed through the maelstrom of chaos at Site-001.

　Thanks to the magic woven into the cap, Alison managed to slip deep into the facility unhindered. She had no time to memorize its intricate layout, but that was not a problem. She simply had to pass through the Ways the Serpent opened before her in sequence; though not in one leap, she would eventually reach her destination.

　As she ran, Alison repeated L.S.’s words in her mind 　　

'In nomine meo… What?'

'In nomine meo, Administratores, discedite a Patre. It’s an exorcism incantation that doesn't need to invoke any god's name. Just recite it while thrusting the card at him, and it should take effect.'

　Even without an explanation of its meaning, Alison had already memorized the spell so well she could recite it effortlessly. All that remained was reaching her destination 　　 the Administrator's office.

　Passing through the last portal, Alison silently stepped onto the floor. Warning lights signaling an emergency illuminated the dim room, allowing her to see a figure in a suit seated at a desk. The room was empty except for this person, who was facing away from her. She crept closer little by little, trying to blend into the alarm blaring in the distance.

"Welcome to my office."

　Alison barely suppressed a gasp. She immediately touched her head, but her cap was still in place. Yet, the figure spun his chair around to look directly at her.

"Compared to truly not existing, your trick is rather insignificant," the Administrator sneered. "But SCP-268 belongs to the Foundation 　　 thank you for keeping it safe until now. It’s time to return our cap."

　And with those words, the cap flew off her head on its own and settled softly into the Administrator's hand. Just as she'd heard, it truly seemed that anything labeled SCP was controlled by the Administrator as something to be managed by the Foundation.

"Hm… Type Σ Identification Testing System sensors determine you fall well within the 'normal' parameters. Except for what’s in your pocket, that is."

　As measurement data floated onto the desk like a hologram, the Administrator toyed with it using his finger. "I see. A Library card and some kind of metaphysical creature."

　Xiao, lurking in the shadow on Allison's clothing, materialized in that instant and lunged at the Administrator as its fangs were bared 　　

"Nothing particularly noteworthy beyond these, I suppose. Estimated physical functions also fit within an ordinary human’s range."

　　　 But then Xiao halted mid-air, frozen in place. All the Administrator did was raise an empty hand toward it while fiddling with data, not even glancing in its direction. That single gesture was enough to strip Xiao of its name.

　Alison clenched her fists. She wanted to charge him immediately, but the time was not yet right.

"I still don’t understand. L.S., the leader of the Hand… Why did she even need someone like you?"

　The Administrator sighed. His breath sounded oddly loud to Allison, and she realized the alarm had stopped ringing. "Look." He swiped the hologram around, flipping it over to show her. "I don’t know what you hoped to accomplish, but it’s too late now."

　The footage showed various locations within Site-001 　　 what was consistent with every cut was that the members of the Serpent's Hand were immobilized just like Xiao. L.S., Midnight, all of them.. The Library's cardholder registry had already fallen into the hands of the Foundation by the time Alison reached her destination.

　Alison saw something like red, trailing light swirling within the Administrator's hand. On closer look, it was countless tiny particles; they occasionally tried to escape his palm only to be pulled back into the vortex. She wondered if they were the names the Administrator had just robbed from everyone.

"The only reason you're still standing is because I wanted to investigate the true nature of your supposed secret strategy." The Administrator grasped the light particles as if sealing them within his fist. "Don’t look so anxious. You’ll be assigned your own containment cell, of course."

　A flashback of the white room instantly flooded Alison's mind, but she quickly shook off the vision. The oldest magic your parents cast upon you 　　 for their children to be protected from all forms of calamity. Her courage surged at the memory of those promised words.

"If you're really that curious, I could tell you," Alison stepped forward.

"No thanks. We can experiment with you thoroughly later, SCP-AATR."

　The Administrator said as he raised his hand toward Alison. Just as he had done countless times before, without the slightest hesitation. The tediously repetitive deprivation of names and the assignment of new ones should have ended everything.

　…But nothing happened. Alison was still Alison, standing there.

　Alison did not miss the flicker of shock that crossed his face upon realizing this. She immediately rushed to the desk, thrust the Library card bearing her true name at the Administrator, and shouted the incantation.

"In nomine meo, Administratores, discedite a Patre!"

　The Administrator let out a soundless screech. His outline blurred and violently shook as if splitting into two. It was unmistakably clear that the malevolent embodiment of a powerful title was about to be expelled from his host's body 　　 yet still clinging desperately to the physical realm.

　This was the spell's effect. The secret strategy L.S. had discovered, one only Allison could perform… A spell that gained meaning only when cast in Alison's name.

　The Administrator was increasingly unable to maintain his form. Yet he still retained enough presence to echo the command “Stop, SCP-AATR!” throughout the room. The principle of domination through naming should have subjugated SCP-AATR, redefining it as an object to be administered under the Foundation's authority.

　But he could not dominate Alison at all. Alison knew why 　　 he had already named her. Long, long ago, with the most heartfelt wish.

"Watch me!" She said, chanting the spell once more.

"In my name,In nomine meo, Administrator,Administratores, depart from my fatherdiscedite a Patre!"

　The incantation made the red particles of light burst from his body, illuminating the darkness of the office like sparks. The monster that would soon cease to be the Administrator was finally leaving the body it had long possessed. Only one person, a mere human, remained there.

　No enigmatic spells or romantic true love were needed. All it took to break the Administrator's curse was to remind him of his true self.

"My name is Alison Chao. You named me, Dad."

　In an instant, a particularly sharp scream erupted as all the names that had been contained were released. The calamity enveloping the world was finally defeated. Showered by the light particles dancing and raining down from the sky, the little heroine entrusted her body to the voices of joy they emitted.

・・・

And now the tale is done,
And home we steer, a merry Hands,
Beneath the setting sun.

END="DOC-4000-JP_2B"

.

► Agreement Α19-4000-F

▼ Accessing content. Please wait a moment.

REQUEST="Agreement_Α19_4000F"
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[ACCESS: DENIED]
[THIS DATA IS RESTRICTED.]
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REQUEST="Agreement_Α19_4000F"
CREDENTIALS="QXJvdW5kIGFuZCBiYWNr…"
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[ACCESS: GRANTED]
[HELLO, DR. GEARS.]

Ahead of restoring the Foundation's command structure, Dr. Charles Gears was the first Foundation staff member to successfully identify the influence of SCP-4000-JP. As one of the personnel holding the honorary title of 'Administrator' at the time, Dr. Gears had become the anomaly's host; upon awakening in an office at Site-001, he immediately recognized inconsistencies between his surroundings and his own memories.

Approximately at the same time, multiple Mobile Task Forces dispatched in response to a security breach alert confirmed the presence of several members of GoI-α-019 ('Serpent's Hand') within Site-001. These GoI-α-019 members were visibly exhausted and, upon detecting the MTFs' arrival, promptly retreated seemingly to avoid engagement. Prioritizing the safety of the 'Administrator', the MTFs overlooked their retreat.

As the MTFs arrived at the office, Dr. Gears questioned them about the aforementioned memory inconsistencies. Many were unable to provide a rational justification for the incongruities within the Foundation's internal structure, resulting in temporary confusion due to severe cognitive dissonance. In response, Dr. Gears established a special committee to address this unusual situation and personally took charge of the project to begin efforts to grasp the full scope of the incident and resolve it.

As the chain of command was restored and the Foundation gradually began to recognize the existence and influence of SCP-4000-JP, the next concern was the anomaly's whereabouts. The Special Committee investigated a wide range of Foundation personnel, including Dr. Gears, though no evidence of SCP-4000-JP's mental intrusion was confirmed beyond residual traces.

The leading theory at the time was that SCP-4000-JP had simply lost its connection to the baseline reality. However, this situation changed when it was discovered that GoI-α-019 had contained SCP-4000-JP through their own methods. This information, disclosed when the Department of External Affairs made contact to request access to their records, indicated an imminent security risk that the anomaly could be released at GoI-α-019's discretion, potentially subjecting the Foundation to a state of operational failure again.

The Foundation secured an opportunity to negotiate with GoI-α-019 regarding the transfer of SCP-4000-JP, mediated by their Japan-based, relatively moderate faction known as 'Aodaishō'. When GoI-α-019 representatives presented their proposed exchange terms in advance, they requested Dr. Gears' attendance at the negotiation. This request was approved, and a meeting was held in a private location within neutral zone FP-06 in Japan, with the following three-to-two participant arrangement.

Inter-Organization Meeting Log 4000-JP

Record 20██/██/██

Members:

O5-9, Foundation O5 Council Plenipotentiary
Dr. Gears, Command Function Restoration Committee
Area Director 'Hōrin', Foundation 81-Region External Affairs Representative
L.S., GoI-α-019 ('Serpent's Hand') Representative
AO, GoI-θ-019 ('Aodaishō') Representative

[Edited by the Department of External Affairs — Omitted greetings, introductions of attendees, etc.]

O5-9: Okay, the subject at hand is the three exchange conditions presented by the Serpent's Hand. Regarding the first request, 'the release of the individuals listed on the attached roster', we will have to find a compromise.

'Hōrin': Yes. I reviewed the list and it effectively covers nearly every humanoid entity under Foundation custody. Given our policy, this is simply not a realistic approach.

AO: Setting aside the fundamental point that such detentions are illegal and unjust to begin with… To borrow my comrade's words, this situation requires at least a rollback. The glitch known as the Administrator ravaged the entire world. Even if the Foundation reverts to its former stance, the plight of those imprisoned while you were acting mad won't change, and we won't accept it.

Gears: Then would this rewrite be acceptable: 'The Foundation is to restore the world to a state as close as feasible to the period before the Administrator's influence emerged.' This includes the release of the individuals listed, though not all of them.

AO: Is that even possible?

Gears: Yes. In any case, our assessment is that the governance structure the Administrator sought to establish has naturally begun to collapse since its anomalous properties were nullified. Several organizations previously assimilated by the Foundation are showing signs of resurgence. Some confusion and inconsistencies are expected to remain, yet it should be possible to rectify the situation by referencing the detailed documentation you possess.

L.S.: We'll provide the documents. But we wish to add a supplementary clause to the proposed revision: 'The Serpent's Hand is to monitor Foundation activities and, upon determining the objectives have been achieved, to hand over the Administrator without delay.'

'Hōrin': To ensure we don’t renege on our promise later. I agree. We may not have your trust now, but please kindly bear witness to our sincerity. Serving the world is our Foundation's Policy Zero.

O5-9: Exactly. I therefore accept this provision under the authority of the Plenipotentiary. Now, the next request: Establishing a safe containment method for the anomaly in question.

L.S.: Unless you have proper containment methods established, handing over the Administrator is little different from releasing it into the wild. Assurance on this point is essential.

Gears: We have reached internal agreement on placing this anomaly under the jurisdiction of 81-Region. By assigning it to 81-Region, which has an independent command structure as the Japanese Branch Board of Area Directors, it is estimated that even if a containment breach occurs, its impact can be confined solely within Japan.

'Hōrin': That being said, we don’t see this as a raw deal. We have extensive precedent and experience with this type of anomaly. The Japanese Branch intends to explore forcing the Administrator's powerful principle alteration to turn inward upon itself, effectively inducing a state of self-containment.

AO: How?

'Hōrin': It’s simple. We'll just assign it an SCP number and make that its sole name. If it can become the Administrator by obtaining such a title, then getting a number would make it to voluntarily submit to our management. We've already prepared the prime seat befitting the most prominent figure 　　 'SCP-4000-JP'.

L.S.: Then we consider this request largely addressed.

AO: Yeah. If needed, I can share the containment ritual we're currently using.

O5-9: Agreement reached. Now for the final, third request… 'Publication of the Story.' The Foundation still hasn't grasped what this entails.

L.S.: Here it is.

[L.S. presents a bundle containing [Document 4000-JP:2A] and [Document 4000-JP:2B].]

L.S.: This is the story detailing how we overthrew the Administrator. When you compile the report on this incident, include this story within it, in its unaltered form.

'Hōrin': …And what purpose does that serve?

L.S.: It's to record the event. If you document this story in your own way, you could sum it up in a single sentence: 'A Serpent’s Hand member neutralized the Administrator.' But the episodes shaved away by the blade of Incōdex are the very proof that flesh-and-blood humans lived, fought, and existed. We record their lives better; subjectively and ornately, as stories rich in words and expression. That's our way, and our respect.

AO: The Nest folks also consider this quite worthwhile. We can include a Serpent's Hand-crafted fairy tale in one of that Foundation's stiff reports. It's a historic achievement since the beginning of the Calendar of Defilement.

O5-9: In any case, if you insist it holds significance, we can accept this condition. Now, regarding the specifics of the agreement 　　

L.S.: Hold on. Before that, I must inform you that this story is incomplete.

Gears: Incomplete. It seems quite coherent to me.

L.S.: Well yes. This story follows a girl's adventure to defeat a mighty evil. Yet she has not yet obtained what should await her at the journey's end: a happy ending after the calamity, and the words to conclude it. Unlike me, she has that right.

[L.S. turns to Dr. Gears.]

L.S.: Dr. Gears, this incomplete story is also addressed to you. Please read it. And bring it to a conclusion in whatever way feels right to you. This is my fourth request to you.

Following the meeting, Agreement Α19-4000-F was concluded between the Foundation and GoI-α-019. The obligations required of both parties were confirmed to have been fulfilled satisfactorily, and the Foundation obtained information regarding the extensive impact of SCP-4000-JP through the provided set of documents. The full text of the Agreement is available for reference at Storage Level B-8.

Following the Foundation's restoration, the Special Committee chaired by Dr. Gears spearheaded activities stipulated under Article I of the Agreement. After SCP-4000-JP was handed over, the Special Committee was formally dissolved, and Dr. Gears applied for a sabbatical leave of approximately three months. Although the application did not specify his location or contact information during the leave, the O5 Council approved it in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the Foundation and his efforts within the Special Committee.

Several days later, a document titled ' 蛇足 / serpent's superfluous short-piece ' was sent from GoI-α-019. This document was found to be merely a narrative depicting the interactions of a parent and child, with no connection to SCP-4000-JP established. Consequently, it has been omitted from this report per O5-9's directive.

END="Agreement_Α19_4000F"

Footnotes

1. To activate color blindness accessibility, click here.

2. Collective term for classified Site clusters operating under the direct command of Site-8100. Excluded from standard Foundation facility coordination, individual facility designations have been revoked to eliminate any means of identification.

3. Anomalies exhibiting similar properties or operating mechanisms include SCP-408-JP, SCP-774-JP, and SCP-1086-JP; compared to these, however, SCP-4000-JP possesses the highest level of versatility as it can actively alter the nominal designations of others.

4. "Given the nature of the Serpent's Hand and the Wanderer's Library, it is hardly surprising that documents adopt this particular format. They tend to favor mystical allusions and 'fairy tale'-like narratives over bureaucratic formalities." — Dr. L█████

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Filename: File:Soviet children playing on street (9641777284).jpg
Name: Soviet children playing on street
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Source Link: Wikimedia Commons

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Filename: box902open.webp
Name: Small box with sliding lid inscribed with a dedication to the overseer of works Kha, wood - Museo Egizio (Turin) S 8378 p01
Authors: Museo Egizio in Turin
License: CC0
Source Link: Wikimedia Commons

Filename: box902closed.webp
Authors: BAD_DATA
License: CC0
Derivative of:

Name: Small box with sliding lid inscribed with a dedication to the overseer of works Kha, wood - Museo Egizio (Turin) S 8378 p02
Authors: Museo Egizio in Turin
License: CC0
Source Link: Wikimedia Commons