⟨Darkness⟩
Courtesy of Juno, I wake up already informed that there are people after me, immediately, I looked outside through the nearby window of my seat to see that we are still nowhere near our destination... the world or earth in this reality is apparently a bit bigger unlike what this plane of existence is typically fond of and what I recall as being the norm... this was one of the things Juno informed me about the difference or distinctness of this reality.
"Their intentions?" I asked, referring to my enemies.
"To convince you or if not force you to submit, otherwise they'll kill you if those approaches fail," she replied as I notice that I'm now wearing my H.P. Gloves.
"I'm assuming I've already been downgraded for this," I said which made her sensibly smile.
"... as you know my combat shovel will be mighty convenient," I add. which she sensibly grin in response.
"Yes, but I don't want things to end that quickly, take that as a compliment, which is," she replied.
"... besides your adaptable strength, resilience, keenness, and celerity are killer still... although it shouldn't be that effective considering being downgraded at this level that I set you which is fascinating... interestingly, ever since I got back to you, you've been surprising me of what you can manage to do," she continued before sensibly smirking.
"Regrets?" I retort, referring to how she upgraded me during the Baseline incident.
"None yet, if anything I'm intrigued," she replied with a sensible shrug.
"... you're not concerned that I'll learn something new that can potentially harm and kill you?" I asked which made her chuckle.
"Doesn't mean I can't trivially stop or kill you," she replied.
"Oh yeah, true," I replied, reminded which made her giggle.
After a moment of silence between us as I quietly think...
"Don't worry about the passengers and train staff on board, I'll teleport them away that's somewhere safe," she then said in response to my thoughts which I nod in response.
"... I hope it's their intended destination or their homes, not somewhere where they'll likely get lost, suffer, or die," I remark which made her sensibly grin.
"I can't blame you for thinking like that considering my mischievous nature and deception," she replied.
"But don't worry, I promise that they'll be safe, truly," she continued, genuinely and reassuringly.
"Fingers crossed," I replied which made her giggle.
After a moment of silence...
"... ever since I left Moscow I've been minding my dull business," I said.
"Not entirely dull," she replied referring and reminding me of the countable people whom I've encountered and helped along my journey.
... although I was down to help I didn't have any intention of seeking such opportunities in the first place, instead, Juno informed me about these side quests and led me to these individuals... since she found them interesting enough... she wanted me to intervene, which as she intends will subtly nudge or adjust their ramification if I succeed... conveniently, all I needed to do was help them then bail after which I was glad since that's the kind of approach I want or prefer... I cooperated hence I saved a couple who were being mugged by a group of five troublemakers in an alleyway... the second instance is that I killed a guy who had bad and sickening intentions whilst stalking a kid from a distance.
The third instance was me leaving a gift... I helped a store owner in advance by leaving him some medicine on the counter top of his shop, which he'll be absolutely thankful for in the future for having it... the fourth or last instance is me helping a handicapped student get out of a bad situation... she was pressured and dragged by her friend to go along with her... this instance compared to the others was the longest one, especially since I had to ensure that she can go back to her home safely.
"Oh, right," I replied, reminded.
"... who or which instance is the reason that brought me this trouble?" I asked.
"None, it's what you did back at Moscow, you caught some notable attention," she replied.
"... am I about to fight the GOC?" I asked which she sensibly smirks before grinning in response.
"What if I tell you that it's Samsara," she replied.
"Oh for fuck sake," I impulsively said as I facepalm, relevantly, I was troubled and displeased of the level of notoriety I manage to get in response to believing Juno, specifically that the SCP Foundation is aware of what I am, plus that they ultimately send in Tau 5 to also address me.
"... downgraded and I've only got my gloves-... like how-" I said before I was cut off by her laughing.
"I'm kidding I'm kidding," she said before giggling which I frown in response, annoyed.
"The morons who are after you is only the Chaos Insurgency," she continued before sensibly smiling.
"... convenient for my apathy then," I retort which made her sensibly grin.
"... which reminds me, your self-control is admirable, truly... but although absolutely fascinating and impeccable for me, your means of holding back all that pain, can be self-harm for your sanity and health alike, especially considering it's stacked up," she replied which I shrug.
"... damned, cursed by repetition and melancholy, moreover subject to be stressed and tested by malice and tragedies, plus misery... giving into it will only further reinforce my notions of deserving to die or wanting to put a bullet in my head... we both unsurprisingly know those notions are already ample or more than enough, obviously I don't want anymore additions," I replied.
"... self-deprecation... for me, it isn't entirely bad in the context of you, especially since how you handle and operate yourself... still all that volatile and stress kept contained within needs to be vented out eventually Haunt," she said.
"Like that concept hasn't come to fruition in my mind at some point," I replied, annoyed.
"And like I'm not aware of that," she replied, sensibly smiling.
"I'm just putting that concept up front, since the impact of its outcomes aren't trivial," she adds.
"... I'm doing this for me, I carry the burden... which conveniently keeps others safe too as a result which I'm content with... brutally broken that I am... I can still care and I can choose to," I replied.
"... if you want I can spawn SCP-999, an absolute unit to help you achieve wellness," she suggests.
After a brief moment of silence as I quietly contemplate, deliberately...
"... tempting... really tempting... but no, besides you wouldn't do it even if I agreed considering I would definitely be misaligned as a result," I replied which made her smirk then grin.
"... and?" she asked intended for me to say the other reason why I don't want that offer.
"Are you recording me or something? like- why are you-," I said before she cut me off.
"I just want you to talk to me and no I'm not recording this or anything... *chuckle* besides that would serve no purpose, this me who we're talking about, like what sort of reason would I-," she said before I cut her off.
"I don't know, but you do," I retorted which made her laugh a bit before sensibly grinning and averting her attention or looking away.
"Just indulge me Gave, I'm once again making an effort here," she said sensibly focusing back on me.
"... alright, I just don't trust myself enough to go on being that happy... I've spent a lot of my experiences failing and miserable, but I've managed to benefit my awareness and wisdom from it... hence why I'm cynical and pessimistic to an extent... what I've gained from that unforgiving grind I deem too precious to just throw away, especially when it's what makes it meaningful and worthwhile," I replied.
"... It's hard to describe or explain," I add.
"Its alright and understandable, words can only go so far," she replied before sensibly smiling.
"So the wisdom and knowledge you earned, you don't want it snuffed out, not wanting to risk it?" she asked.
"Yes... maybe... *sigh* I don't know what the fuck I was saying," I replied which made her sensibly smile before giggling.
"I was just testing you," she replied, contented.
"Because you're not entirely convinced?" I asked which made her sensible smile widen more, further content.
After a bit of silence between us...
"... you should've chosen one of the other candidates, thus for you, as a result you're letting yourself be pressured of doing your best to maintain this exclusive tolerable conduct, especially for my sake," I said as I frown.
"Considering you now deem such things as mattering enough, like why even, especially at this point," I continued which she sensibly rolled her eyes at me in response.
"I don't care Haunt, I wanted you... as to why, it's because they aren't as... as interesting, tolerable, and fun as you," she replied which made me raise a brow.
"That's... wrong... since when have I been fun let alone exciting in anyway?" I asked which she sensibly smirked then grin in response.
"... unlike me and the two other candidates that I recall, the others would've likely given in to join you in relishing upon the chaos and madness you're so fond of, the kind of fun that I recall hence loathe you for," I add while my rage begins to kindle a tad bit.
"Well you're a challenging specimen, like Hesh I like a challenge," she retorts which I frown, she snickers in response to my reaction.
"In other words, let's see how long can I manage to keep him sane with me," I replied which she sensibly grins.
"... not entirely," she replied before sensibly smiling then grinning which I ignore.
After a moment of silence...
"My ramifications are nothing special since I hold no potential, especially considering I'm set to be snuffed out ultimately in the end," I comment.
"This plane of existence or reality deemed it otherwise hence the typical nature of your existence, besides I doubt that you're nothing special and hold no potential," she replied.
"... if it weren't for you I wouldn't be this capable and valued, it doesn't count," I retort.
"You were never a candidate that I conscripted because of power... you're consistently reliable and tolerable unlike virtually everyone else fundamentally because you're you Haunt," she replied.
"There are some nudges here and there hence the outcome and nature," I retort which made her sensibly smile in response.
"True, but fundamentally it wouldn't be possible if it weren't you and your volition," she replied.
"... if I'm not the strongest-" I said before she cut me off.
"Not yet, besides that's debatable, especially now all things considered," she remarks before sensibly smiling, proud of something I don't know.
"... what's the main reason then that you deem me as a potential candidate or addition, a potential conscripted player for your madness?" I asked.
After a brief moment of silence albeit suspense...
"... nevermind then-" I said before she cut me off.
"It's amusing considering who and what I am but... it was because you are benevolent... reliably reasonable... in comparison unlike virtually everyone else... but even then your valor and courage is-... basically your character absolutely intrigued me hence you're a lucky guy... *giggle* especially considering the fact that you stole my first kiss," she said which made me sigh.
"Shut up," I replied, embarrassed but more so annoyed of her reminding me that we've kissed, she smirked in response to my reaction.
"... *giggle* anyway, it took a long time for me to acknowledge this but when things were starting to be a tad bit bland, you at some point fortunately eventually came to mind... I was ultimately curious," she adds.
"I wish you weren't," I replied with a tad bit of contempt which she grins in response.
"Moreover, your strangeness added to the motivation and interest... after a lot of reruns aka what you recall hence loathe me for... I'm happy that I gave you a chance and was curious, otherwise, you would've been something that I'll absolutely regret missing out on," she said.
"... you're already aware that I'm not happy about it," I replied which made her sensibly smirk then grin.
"Of course," she replied.
"... *giggle* feed me Haunt, please, feed me," she pleadingly said in a sultry manner which made me uncomfortable, she sensibly grinned in response to my reaction.
"Shut the fuck up," I impulsively said sternly, flustered which made her snicker.
After a brief moment of silence between us...
"We've still got a bit of time until your enemies will make their move," she said.
"What if the conflict will derail the train thus our journey to reach the destination?" I asked which she sensibly smiled in response.
"I wouldn't let that happen, besides I want to see you in action," she replied.
"I'll only teleport the people away when things are about to cook-off," she continues which I only nod.
"... can we talk about Hesh?" she asked.
"... what about her?" I replied with a raised brow.
"Did you two finally get it on?" she asked which made me frown in response.
"What- no!" I impulsively replied.
"Oh, poor Hesh... I know you know that she's been longing for you ever since-" she said before I cut her off.
"Why are we talking about this again, your further convincing my notions that you're scheming, discreetly or subtly utilizing her as something to meet an end, fuck off," I replied, sternly.
"Oh, so you have some resistance concerning or pertaining to that notion," she replied before sensibly smirking which made me frown.
"Why does this topic matter to you?" I asked, annoyed.
"It doesn't matter to me," she replied with a shrug.
"Then drop this," I replied sternly which she sensibly smiles before grinning in response.
"I didn't tamper her mind or anything, she's genuine about her feelings for you, I'm saying this just so you'll know," she continued which annoyed me further.
"You allowed these developments come to pass," I remark albeit sternly.
"Curiosity," she retorts before sensibly grinning which I shook my head a bit in disapproval, frowning.
"You're sick," I impulsively said sternly as my contempt and loathe for her spiked.
"As proven by what you recall hence loathe me for, yes, I can be in absurdly many wayd," she replied before sensibly smirking.
"... why are you seemingly helping Hesh?" I asked, skeptical.
"I am? well, you misunderstood my intentions, I was just teasing or messing with you," she replied before sensibly grinning with a tad bit of mischief.
"... I don't entirely buy it," I replied, skeptical still.
"Not my problem, believe what you want Haunt," she replied before sensibly smirking which made me impulsively grunt, annoyed by her.
"... besides would you rather have Hesh be her original cold and stern self?" she asked.
"... at least I'll be convinced or assured as to why I shouldn't hold back and just kill her without this hope in the way," I replied which made her grin.
"Hesh earned her developments as a person, I care and I'm curious," she replied.
"I thought you were supposed to be a saint Haunt," she continued before sensibly smirking.
"I've never been, the fuck you talking about, don't mistake benevolence, it's different... especially considering my histories as MTF," I impulsively replied, intended as a reminder even if she's already aware.
"I'm just testing you again," she replied, contented.
... my intuition then warned me of the direction of my enemies hence I absentmindedly look ahead over the seats at the door ahead that'll lead to the next train car... timely the door then opened which revealed two men wearing civilian clothing appropriate for the cold climate outside which coupled their obvious equipment... courtesy of Iris, she informed me about their strength enhancement equipment on their arms, plus their masks and vest which provides the user convenient protection against kinetic force... after they entered the train car, my enemies hastily stride in my direction, immediately I pretend like I didn't notice them from afar hence I looked outside through the nearby window, Iris then spoke.
"Although their armor is notable it doesn't mean they can't be knocked out unconscious or killed via enough force," she remarks.
"Understood," I replied.
"There are two more approaching from the other end, equipped in the same manner," Juno said which I nod in response.
Not long...
When the duo ahead reached me and stopped to look at me, I looyk back at them before I spoke.
"Есть проблема?" I asked, confused.
"Our boss is interested in you, we've been sent to escort you out," the leading man replied.
"Я не понимаю, что ты говоришь," I replied.
"Cut the bullshit, we're aware who we're talking to," the leading man's partner replied.
"If you cooperate, no one will be harmed or killed, guaranteed," the leading man remarks.
After a bit of silence between us all as I quietly contemplate, deliberately...
... I stood up with my hands raised before I went in between the enemies, some of the passengers then asked questions about what was happening which was threateningly dismissed by one of my enemies... I then had this distinct familiar sense and anticipated notion which declares that now's the convenient time to initiate my stimulative boost which I ignore... immediately I notice the passengers ahead simultaneously disappear instantly as I hear footsteps behind me, this was an enemy who intended to cuff my hands, but unfortunately for all of them, they're the only ones onboard now on the train, stuck with me and Juno... in a fast sequence I then utilize my celerity... I elbowed behind me to hit the enemy in the face before I transitioned my act to punch the head of the enemy in front of me via my right hand... but before things could flow and escalate Juno then paused everything including me, but my conscience and mind weren't affected, she then spoke.
"Trigger your boost?" she asked.
"It'll just be a waste," I replied in mind which she sensibly smiles in response before resuming normalcy.
The enemy I've punched was knocked out, utilizing my celerity I punch again via my right hand for the partner of that enemy... I intended that punch to produce a shockwave which would've fatally crushed his skull in, unfortunately I was downgraded thus the enemy was alright and only startled... the enemy then intended to punch my fist via his right hand but I moved my hand away hence he transitioned his attack to punch me via his left hand... I dodge it by only inches before I hit him in the face via my right forearm before I transition my blow to punch the enemy whose face I've elbowed from behind at his chest via my right hand... immediately, I followed it up with a bone crushing kick to his chest via my left leg which knocked him back to collide with his partner that was behind him.
Afterward I then turn back around to punch the enemy whom I elbowed in the face via my right forearm which knocked him out, I then turn around to see the only conscious who's beginning to stand back up, which I let him... when he attacked I utilize my celerity to knock him out, which took only took two consecutive punches to his head.
"So much for holding back, it feels weird not being able to reliably address problems or trouble in one punch huh?" Juno asked.
"At least you made me strong enough," I replied as I turned around and stride onwards intending to proceed to the next train car.
"You're welcome," she replied sensibly smiling.
"... how many?" I asked.
"Ten more to go," she replied.
As I continued on my torso was then engulfed by her ethereal Musou Black flamelike matter for a second before disappearing which revealed that she equipped me body armor, specifically the same one I was provided back in Moscow by her, after her temporary departure.
"Note that two interesting people are trying to stop the train, don't worry I've made sure all of them can't do anything to ruin the fun," she said before sensibly grinning.
Eventually...
At this point, I've killed eight enemies without getting killed, although I got shot countable times considering how the enemies fought, I've been downgraded, and that we are fighting on a train... challenging in a way but I managed... anyway, as I stride I looked at my firearm for a second intended for Iris to inform me of the amount of ammunition it has... the weapon was a mag fed shotgun which I got from looting an enemy, the shotgun was specifically the Molot Vepr-12.
"Five," Iris replied in mind which made me hesitant to move on, but I digress and continue.
When I reached the door and was about to utilize it to enter the adjacent train car Juno then paused everything, again my consciousness and mind weren't affected by her reality and time manipulation, she then spoke.
"The last two that are waiting for you ahead are unlike your previous opponents, they have no firearms but are anomalous," she said before sensibly smiling.
"If you told me sooner I would've taken a bit more of my time looting," I replied in mind which she sensibly grins in response.
"I did didn't I?" she asked.
"You didn't specify it for me when you said interesting hence I thought of their ramifications, now by chance this is likely unfortunate as a result," I replied.
"Whoops," she said before giggling which annoyed me.
"Cheeky bastard," I replied sternly which she laughs a bit in response before resuming normalcy.
When I entered the train car I see the enemies at the far end waiting, one was a woman and the other was a man, I then began to stride hastily towards them before a female voice then spoke in my mind.
"Stand down or be put down interloper" she authoritatively and assertively said which I ignore.
... her partner then begins to run at me intending to fight me, I maintained my steady pace before suddenly I was compelled to stop and surrender and I complied for a second until I resisted this influence... continuing onwards albeit a tad bit irritated in mind of having my mind stressed like that.
When the enemy who intended to get close to fight me was on a deemed effective range for my shotgun, utilizing my celerity I instantly raised my gun intended as a faint before I shot towards the direction where my intuition beforehand anticipated where he'll go to in response, it worked hence I shot him in the face.
"Nice one," Juno comments amused albeit grinning as I continue onwards.
"He should've worn armor or stayed away," I replied which she sensibly smiles in response.
When I pass by the corpse of the enemy I shot him in the head again since I had my suspicions or doubts that he is indeed dead... the last remaining enemy then brought out something which kinda looked like a rosary... presumably she utilized this to either execute her incantation or if not enhance it's effectiveness.
I have no idea what was the intended outcome of her incantation but from my experience, for a second it was threateningly mentally unbearable for me coupled by this alarming pain in my head... I endure both and although what she did didn't stop me as intended, she did slowed me down for a bit... seeing that I was resilient then ultimately becoming immune she eventually quit her incantation, presumably when I was at the point wherein she deemed as an effective range for her attack, she casted some projectiles at me which I manage to dodge unscathed.
I then utilize my firearm, I kept on shooting as I moved forward maintaining my steady pace until the ammunition of my weapon was depleted... she was unscathed though because she utilized her magic to protect herself from any bullets that would've harmed and killed her... the bullets presumably just bounced off of her as a result.
... I was then surprised when something was summoned between me and the mage, presumably it was her own doing... the summoned was a live suit of armor, a knight, the mage then exits the train car to flee to the adjacent one behind her when the knight was done manifesting... it unsheathed its sword before advancing towards me with its weapon at the ready, Juno then spoke.
"Strength and durability is worrisome, but winnable if you don't get killed," she said.
"I've made it conveniently tangible and killable for you, good luck comrade," she continued before sensibly smirking then smiling in response to my thoughts.
As the knight continues its approach... with the YOLO or "I don't give a shit" concept in mind, I went with my whimsical idea of action... when the knight reached the point wherein I deem the right range, in a fast sequence, utilizing my celerity I threw my weapon at it... the knight managing in quick response swats it to the side using its sword thus the opening I wanted.
... l dashed towards it in melee range to disarm it which I manage to succeed at... it punched me twice which threateningly hurt a lot but I manage to dash back without getting killed or grabbed to be killed... the knight then materialized its sword back to its hand before striding cautiously towards me with its weapon at the ready... just a sidenote, getting hit was what I wanted and needed for my adaptable strength to, well, adapt.
... it didn't matter whether the attacks were serious or given all, as a result I'll be set now to be able to kill... yes it's broken, but in alignment to my purpose as Juno's conscript in the past, it was necessary... one of Juno's exclusive broken perks or upgrade... at that time, it shouldn't be this effective since I was downgraded, it should've equalized power but fortunately my adaptable strength was the prime one, lucky me.
Anyway, being downgraded in mind I had doubts... at that moment I was afraid a bit meanwhile as Juno giggles in response... when the knight deemed it close enough it swung its sword before in a tactical transition attempt to ram me with his shoulder... the knight then swung its sword at me again before lunging to strike me which I manage to dodge then dashed back as to not get hit by its followed up attack... I waited again for it to attack once more but this time I was committed whether I fail or succeed.
When it attacked again, using my celerity I dodge... although risky, I took advantage of this opening hence I punched its left hand which as intended disarmed it... but it also certainly broke its hand as a result which surprised all three of us... immediately I realized that I can end this fight trivially... it tried to hit me via its right hand but I dodge it then break it as well before in a sudden burst of speed and momentum I ram to its chest.
... it disintegrated after collision as indication that its been killed, I was about to make a comment when I immediately acknowledge the sound of rotors which was somewhere off to my left... I looked outside through the nearby window to my left to see that there was little bird helicopter, specifically, the attack variant which was the AH-6... it was distant albeit skillfully driven or flown to be in sync with the pace of the train as it faces my direction.
In anticipation, I dashed back to then immediately lay down on the floor, barely avoid getting shot at... after repositioning as I lay there I begin to crawl forwards intending to reach the next train car where the mage fled to, meanwhile as the enemy helicopter laser the train car from left to right using its twin mounted miniguns.
"They don't want to lose her too," Juno comments as I hastily crawl onwards.
"Their mistake," I replied.
"Also thanks," I continued, acknowledging that she made it so that any cover between me and the bullets were impenetrable hence I wasn't shot through and shredded by the attack helicopter.
"You're welcome, but don't be stupid to assume-" she said before I cut her off.
"I'm aware," I impulsively said which she smirks in response.
"Likewise, I'm just saying," she replied.
After a moment whilst under gunfire...
The helicopter suddenly ceased its shooting but was still audibly there, present, presumably intending to see if I was killed... it was only for a bit though before I heard it fly away hence I stood up immediately after then wasted no time in proceeding to the next train car... halfway on the train car, the door ahead at the end opened to reveal two Chaos Insurgency personnel, the leading man then crouched for his teammate to be able to shoot above him, meanwhile as I dashed forwards then to the side behind cover... again Juno made it so that my cover couldn't be penetrated... suddenly my hands were then engulfed in Juno's ethereal matter for a second before disappearing to reveal that she replaced my H.P. gloves, hence I was now equipping the physics gloves, plus I also now held a tool gun on my right hand, looking at its screen I realized that the tool gun is the same one that is set to spawn desks, Juno then spoke.
"Any ideas?" she asked before sensibly smirking.
After a moment of getting shot from afar whilst I contemplate...
"... I have one," I replied before I utilized my celerity, also conveniently my intuition helped via the right moment to do this without getting instantly shot upon execution.
In a fast sequence, I went out of cover to then timely shoot to spawn a desk ahead, specifically nearby the enemies before I utilized my left physics glove to propel the desk towards them, which as intended hit them both, it knocked them back to the adjacent train car behind them... yes, but fortunately the type of desk was hardened material, plus it more than likely knock them out as a result of the impact, otherwise dead... Immediately after, I now only acknowledge the sound of rotors again hence I look outside through the nearby window to my left to see an MH-6 helicopter... it had four Chaos Insurgency personnel and the female mage on board as it flew away... suddenly, in anticipation, I turn to look behind me then dodge conveniently in response to my sudden attacker who was the partner of the mage... he somehow was resurrected, plus the damage on his face was gone.
I dashed back to avoid getting hit but he followed me via his own celerity, he managed to swat the tool gun out of my hand which hit thus break the nearby window to my right... in quick response I utilized my left physics glove to forcefully push him back which would've threateningly pressed his chest in relatively... now distant from me, I then smack him on the ceiling before down on the floor which would've either knocked him out or if not broke some of his bones as a result... it's then I acknowledge the sound of rotors somewhere off to my right, immediately I look through the nearby window to see the AH-6 again in the same manner as before, managing in quick response I utilized my right physics glove through the broken window to grab the helicopter... it timely nudge it to look more to its right a bit hence making it miss as it shoots utilizing its miniguns, as a result it unintentionally shot through the train car to hit the partner of the mage who was laying on the floor still.
... I intended to utilize my left physics glove to break through the glass of the cockpit and crush the chest of the pilot... or if a piece of the broken glass is gripped then I would've stab the pilot then slit his throat... unfortunately however, I missed plus the pilot then managed to sway the helicopter to face my direction more before it shot a rocket... as a result I lost in maintaining the grip of my physics gloves on the helicopter since I was knocked back by the explosion, Juno meanwhile spoke.
"Rockets!" she impulsively said before the train car got hit by additional rockets for a bit which knocked me back even more for a bit as a result.
The train car by this point had multiple openings because of the explosions, if it weren't for the level of toughness I got from adapting to kill the knight that the mage summoned I would've maybe been killed and or have a lot of shrapnel in my body... unharmed but I was discombobulated as I lay there on the cusp of passing out, staring at the helicopter... Juno then piloted me before she produced a tendril that was made up of the same matter as she is to smack the helicopter from the side, it was wrecked immediately and forcibly knocked it down out of the air before I-
⟨Darkness⟩
I wake up seeing a beautiful sight of the sunlight complementing or adding to the beauty of the scenery of the wilderness that's in front of me... after looking at it a bit I then spoke.
"Where are we?" I asked as I sat up.
"It doesn't matter, but as you can tell we are somewhere out in the wilderness," she replied as I stood up.
"... that was pointless," I comment referring to the entire conflict at the train whilst in a bit of a trance of deep thought as I looked at the scenery in front of me again.
"I disagree, the conflict is now an added impression as to why they should leave you alone," she replied.
"... *chuckle* they suspected you to be a rogue asset, they believed that they can own you for themselves," she adds.
"Did you plan this?" I asked referring to the beautiful scenery I'm looking at.
"Nope," she replied.
"Pretty right?" she asked which I nod.
"Definitely... I uh, like your taste for aesthetics," I replied which made her sensibly smile before giggling.
"Aw, thank you," she replied, touched by my words.
After a moment of silence...
"All of that spent for one guy, for nothing," I comment referring back to the conflict and my enemies.
"... what I did in Moscow should be definite, yet they still tried?" I asked which she sensibly smiled in response.
"Idiots, basically, at least now they won't be a nuisance and a bother anymore after what you did," she replied.
"At the cost of one... really expensive and advanced train and its route," I replied which made her sensibly grin.
"That's none of our problems," she said.
"... stop the loose train at least, please," I replied which she sensibly shrugs in response.
"Since you said please, sure, why not," she replied before sensibly smirking and presumably kept her word.
"... what now?" I asked looking around albeit having no idea where to go.
"Head north," she replied as Iris then displayed this convenient compass function on my U.I. or HUD which I utilized before complying.
"... I hope I'm not about to find out why dinosaurs or prehistoric creatures being extinct is a good thing," I said as I stride, vigilant.
"I thought you would be keen to meet one considering virtually all of your childhood, you were fascinated by those first before warfare... maybe even a bit of science too," she replied before sensibly grinning in response.
"... I'd rather not put my life at risk to meet one though, especially in this reality... evolved versions that have now become unfamiliar," I replied.
"Besides I'm an adult, are you ignoring this fact?" I asked which she sensibly smiles then giggles.
"Don't worry, I was just messing with you," she replied which I don't fully believe, she grins in response.
After a while as I quietly reminisce for the most part..
"... risky yes, considering your loathing of me, but I'll indulge you if it interests you enough... obviously I'll be leading but worry less, I'll be deliberate," she then said in response to my thoughts.
"I wouldn't be triggered if we avoid every bad or worse one," I replied as my contempt and loathe for her kindled which she sensibly nod.
"... just talking this relevant about it makes me want you to be tangible so that I can hurt you... just a lie of having this likelihood to kill you," I impulsively add whilst my kindled contempt and loathe for her is still present.
"... are you willing to take the risk?" she asked.
"... I don't know... give me a moment," I replied.
"Will do, take your time," she replied before sensibly smiling.
After a long moment of silence as I quietly contemplate, deliberately...
"Yeah... I'm down," I replied although a tad bit hesitant.
"We're out in the middle of the wilderness, besides I can always do something to help you simmer down if need be, which is no problem at all," she remarks.
"Just be careful, unless you want my impulsiveness to likely win me over every time I get into this mood of loathing you and likely everything else," I replied as my loathe for her spiked a bit which she giggles in response.
"I'll be careful... you ready Gave?" she asked.
"We'll see, just do it," I replied which she sensibly grins in response before-
⟨Darkness⟩
Memory Alignment: Successful
Pending, please wait...
Playing...
I opened my H.P. Mask speechless but happy that this reality has achieved absolute normalcy even against all odds we've managed to do what should've been impossible... although we've won it cost me much of my humanity... it was degrading... the guilt of helping RED expediting the end of anything anomalous which also included the SCP Foundation, Three Moons Initiative, and other organizations and even communities that I deem were good, even if tied to the or are anomalous... has been bothering me to the point I've been having nightmares.
My lonesome moment of quiet introspection and instances of reminiscence was then interrupted when a familiar voice spoke from behind me, startling me out of my thoughts... knowing about her I immediately wasn't looking forward to this moment between us.
"... sulking and or brooding as always huh," Hesh said, I turned around to look at her.
"Am I needed somewhere else?" I asked which she smiled in response,
"Be at ease, we've won," she replied as I quietly contemplated whether I should just make up an excuse to disconnect myself away from.
"If you're intimidated by me, don't be... but I can't fault you for thinking like that considering I'm sometimes a bitch towards you," she adds opening her mask before exposing her face.
"... I'm here because... for a while, I've noticed that something has been bothering you... I want to know what," she continued whilst looking at me intently, I was surprised by her words.
"... that's oddly thoughtful of you," I replied albeit unsure what to say more.
"Yeah yeah," she replied dismissively looking away.
"... none of us will remember right?" I asked referring to RED's intended finality.
"Yes none of us will," she replied.
"Anyway, what's been bothering you?" she asked.
"... guilt has been bothering me," I admit.
"... well, we aren't heroes, just soldiers dedicated to a right cause," she reminds.
"... you shouldn't let it bother you," she adds as she crossed both her arms.
"Easier said than done for me, as you can tell," I replied which made her chuckle.
"... I presume this is where I'll reveal how pathetic I am," I add which she shook her head a bit before grinning then looking away.
"... maybe some privacy with me in my room would make it all go away," she retorts before snickering.
"Excuse me?" I asked flustered, impulsively in disbelief and wanting to deny that I heard her say that.
"I'm just messing with you," she replied looking away albeit smiling mischievously which I impulsively let out a sigh of relief.
After a brief moment of awkward silence between us...
"Are you no longer bothered by guilt now?" she asked.
"... for now, it's manageable," I replied still a bit flustered which she nodded in response.
"... good," she replied before stepping closer to me to then hug me, which was surprising since this was a first.
"I... I'm glad that I met you," she admits which made me speechless.
At that moment I really wanted to confront her about her seemingly change of character from out of nowhere... but I was afraid, thinking that it would ruin what happened to her... I just hugged her back... I found it soothing in a way even if I was in disbelief.
"But with that said," she adds before she shoved me away hence I staggered back and almost tripped.
"Fists up," she authoritatively said which I complied and got into a fighting stance, I was confused for a bit.
"It's been a while since we've spar, maybe after this it'll get your mind off of those things since you'll be focusing on me instead... in other words, I'll beat that negativity out of you," she said before smirking which I frowned in response.
"Unnecessary, besides it doesn't matter considering I'll forget in the end," I remark which she rolls her eyes at me in response.
"And you think I'm not aware, I want this basically, now put em up," she said stepping back and concealing her face via her balaclava before going in a defensive stance then closing her mask.
I look at her saddened by this development, digressing I let out a sigh as I shook my head a bit before I closed my H.P. mask... I was tired of everything by this point and I felt empty... anyway in that familiar transition-
⟨Darkness⟩
Returning to Main: Alignment Successful
Pending, please wait...
Resuming...
"That was short," I comment which Juno sensibly shrugs in response.
"At least it isn't something that amps your rage," she replied which I nod, appreciative.
"That was the first instance that Hesh was beginning to show you that she genuinely cares for you, a step towards change... although considering her original stern and cold exterior, she found it tough at times to adjust... accept some compromises to better relations," Juno adds.
"... what about you at the time?" I asked with a tad bit of loathing of her in mind.
"It's best if we move on," she replied smirking which I shrug in response, complying to digress.
"... Hesh must've done well enough in her handling of me considering how my variant interacted with her... hopefully," I said.
"Well, that was the last moments for your variant since in that reality I tasked Hesh to find and kill you since my work and the purpose of RED in that reality has reached its end," she replied.
"... how did it end?" I asked.
"You basically gave up, made it easy for her... after a bit of talk with her you opened up your H.P. Mask to let her shoot you in the head which she did... really saddened that she had to kill you again," she replied.
"... I'm aware that I could do something to save or misalign you from your set, but that would be bias for every single one of your variants that are damned in the entirety of this expansion, this plane of existence," she adds in response to my thoughts which settled my mind.
After a long moment of silence...
"I don't trust you, it's suspiciously quiet," I comment as I vigilantly glance around me, referring to our surroundings which made her laugh.
"Calm down, I have no mischievous intentions at the moment," she replied, genuinely.
"Anyway, achieving complete normalcy was the first new ambition and goal of mine... unfortunately after some time it eventually got to the point that it became familiarly insipid," she continued.
"... did you revert to your loathsome-" I replied before she cut me off.
"I was tempted yes since I was just making things complicated, tedious, and in a way difficult... letting things that don't matter to me, matter enough which were bugging my patience," she replied.
"... I continued on but with revisions and new ambitions to accomplish... challenges designed for myself to keep me motivated and encouraged... ultimately I considered the anomalous as being part of normalcy which always has been," she adds.
"As intended it was challenging, considering also that not every reality is the same which is fortunate since it contributed to the motivation, interest, and drive... more so of the concept of something to look forward to, especially that's different or new," she continued.
"... I failed a lot thus making me either revert to achieving my complete normalcy again or just straight up letting loose and having fun... as to what kind of fun it's the same as what you recall hence loathe me for," she said which my contempt and loathe for her kindled in mind in response.
"Don't worry, I was inconsistent," she adds in response to my thoughts, referring to her instances of her once again subjecting an entire reality to be chaotic and doomed.
"... I can only hope," I asked which she sensibly smiled and shook her head a bit in response.
"... nobody has ever gotten good or better without failing at some point, with that said, ultimately I succeeded... harmony is what I've achieved for those realities, even if I absolutely doubt that it'll be maintained especially when RED and I have left it all behind," she said.
"... tell me, was it alright?" she asked.
"... for me yeah... although absolutes exist it doesn't mean that it can't," I replied which she sensibly smiled.
"... here in your plane of existence I learned a lot... for example, even though virtually the entirety of your existence is to be damned... you've never been alone especially upon your approach to your end or set fate, even before I managed to breach in or enter this plane of existence," she said.
"How come?" I asked, curious.
"SCP-4999," she replied before she trivially made me aware as to why, she then shared some relevant authentic memories about my variants... I was melancholic in response but genuinely glad and thankful for those outcomes.
"Typically he doesn't talk to anyone who he comforts before their death, apart from people like you however... as intended it will undoubtedly make you genuinely happy that someone is there for you... someone who at least, actually cares... he'll then offer you a blunt instead of a smoke, *chuckle* SCP-420-J to be exact, as intended it'll reinforce in soothing you, what little time remains before you expire," she explains.
"... he's aware that your existence is set to be tragic, inevitable... you're one of the few or countable who are expected," she adds.
... I then abruptly stop... the melancholy that's been kindling in response is now enough that I have to focus on stifling or smothering them, especially since I was genuinely moved... I was happy for those variants of mine who died knowing someone does genuinely care for them, even if it's sad that virtually it's only just him in the end, that genuinely cares about my existence.
After a brief moment of silence as I quietly stifle or smother my emotions...
"... feeling better?" Juno then asked in a gentle tone which I nod before continuing onwards.
"... thank you for informing me of this," I said with sensible emotional restraint in my voice, Juno meanwhile smiled in response.
"You both are included to the few things in this plane of existence that genuinely inspires me," she admits which made me smile a bit in response.
"... to be honest I'm finding it hard to find good memories about us that are worthwhile and interesting, especially ones that are reliable that wouldn't trigger your contempt and loathe for me," she adds.
"... welp, blame yourself for that," I replied which made her giggle in response before sensibly averting her attention.
"... also why choose that memory in particular?" I asked referring to the memory about me and Hesh.
"It was the easiest pick or one," she replied as she sensibly focused back on me.
After a while...
"... If you ever meet yourself in a different reality... assuming the context is in alignment to your set norm, wherein you're still young and haven't yet really spiraled, what words of wisdom will you share to yourself?" Juno asked, meanwhile as I'm getting irritated by the uneven terrain that's in my way.
"Words of wisdom... I'm a madman... I'm not wise, if I was I wouldn't be here with you," I replied, thoughtful, which she sensibly grin in response.
"Is that all?" she asked.
"... I can offer myself some advice... that I deem should be considered or put to practice," I replied.
"What advice these would be?" she asked.
"You're already aware of the contents of my mind, why waste our time on this bit, especially for small talk?" I asked which she sensibly grin before chuckling in response.
"Just go with it Haunt, I'm making an effort here," she replied before sensibly smiling.
"... alright... I would say be a healthy skeptic... do your best to maintain your integrity and discipline... you don't need to convince everyone... be open-minded and if life is tough, it will get tougher, hence do your best not to let it beat you senseless... acknowledge that life by nature is indeed unfair and chaotic," I replied.
"In addition, hope can be a grind hence if so then you can get it or manage if you work hard enough... keep in mind that you don't have to like it but be sure to be mindful of your sanity, don't lose it... the mind and heart aren't competing for anything, acknowledge both, especially your health... lastly pick your battles wisely, and there are indeed times wherein running away is best," I continued.
"... I'm not sure if what I said will help in any way, even if a little bit... alternatively I could just shoot myself... it'll save him or her the experience of the potential ramifications of bullshit... like a mercy kill, peace in mind for him or her," I add which she sensibly shook her head a bit albeit smiling.
"This is just my means of letting you vent Haunt, letting off some steam even if bit by bit will benefit your sanity and health," she remarks which I nod in response.
"I'm aware but I've never had someone until now... strangely you and Hesh specifically... it does help me," I admit feeling a bit calmer in mind instead of being relatively stressed, she sensibly grins in response.
"... I'm just uncomfortable though that the embodiment and agents of madness are the ones helping this... this much, trying to at least, hopefully, I don't know," I add which she chuckles in response.
"I hope you'll get used to it more... although what I've done is not enough which is with intent but it's honest work," she said.
"At least... acknowledged," I replied which made her sensibly smile, contented.
After a long moment of occasional silent pauses and instances of talking to Juno, eventually...
I reached a spacious clearing, Juno then spoke
"Stop here," she then said which I comply.
"Why?" I asked looking at my surroundings expecting trouble which she giggles in response.
"My deemed effective means of helping you vent out what you've been bottling inside, the dangerous and volatile ones," she said before sensibly smirking.
A building then spawned mid-air before landing on the ground ahead of me, it was unscathed... the abruptness was surprising plus the impact shook the ground which startled me and the surrounding area as well, considering the audible chirp of birds had now ceased... knowing where this will be going and also reminded of the past as a result because how familiar this set up I frown in response... she then spoke.
"Yes, there are other ways and means to help you but as you can tell I've already made up my mind," she said which annoyed me.
"Stressing me in the process," I replied as my loathe and contempt for her begins to kindle.
"Hope can be a grind," she retorts before sensibly grinning.
The building no doubt contained her troops which no doubt will be my enemies for this occasion... I was then engulfed Juno's matter for a second before disappearing to reveal that she equipped me my full set of H.P. armor, not only that but I now also have my combat shovel with in hand.
"To be honest, all those previous talks have bored me enough that I wanted this... to be fun... hopefully by the end fun it is for you and me," Juno said as I look at my combat shovel.
"I don't have a choice," I replied sternly.
"True but this is my means of helping you vent out the volatile aspect which you've kept bottled up from within you all this time Haunt, this is an exercise," she replied.
"Besides if your loathing and contempt about me is triggered, that's good since your rage will help you progress through any resistance inside," she continues as I look at the entrance of the building in response.
"I'm not so sure... give me a moment," I said which she sensibly smiles in response.
"... It's a good thing that cognitive dissonance has failed to be effective in being problematic," she comments referring to me before sensibly grinning.
"For me as well," I replied referring to her which she laughs a bit in response.
After a moment of silence as I'm quietly deep in thought...
Juno then sensibly smiles in response to my thoughts, meanwhile as I sigh having made up my mind of going along with this arrangement... convincing myself to try even if I'll be giving in to my antipathy and apathy... or in other words violence and madness.
"I doubt this occasion will be enough, but it's a step, an effort," she said.
"I'm in it purely to lessen the potency of the volatility that's suppressed," I replied which she sensibly smiles.
"Of course and that's the whole point... this is the opportunity to take all those miserable days out, these being a sample of the original batch of troops that contributed in expediting entropy," she replied.
"The finality of those realities that you recall hence loathe me for," she adds as emphasis of the relevant timelines these troops of her's were relevant.
"If you said this first then I would've immediately agreed," I replied as I begin hastily striding towards the building, eager or now looking forward to kill which made her giggles.
"Trust," she replied before she piloted me.
"Speaking of which you should be grateful that at least Hesh wasn't part of them or rather she didn't existed yet during those times," she adds which I ignore, she chuckles in response.
"Alright, let me conveniently upgrade you for this," she said.
I then felt gradually exhausted as the sound of static amplified before I-
⟨Darkness⟩
⟨End Of Recording⟩
Next: "Quixotic Protege."