Item #: SCP - III
Name: Shadow Symphony.
Object Class: Euclid
Appearance: Takes the form of an oddly designed jet black music box that appeared to have come from the 1900s yet has no sign aging, and when opened showcases the internal workings additional on the top of the box is written in a language that is currently undetermined.
Special Containment Procedures: SCP-XXXX is to be securely stored in a climate-controlled containment chamber at Site-XX. Access to SCP-XXXX is restricted to Level 3 personnel or higher, and any experimentation or interaction requires written authorization from the Site Director. The containment chamber must have subdued lighting to minimize shadows, and security personnel should be equipped with flashlights and shadow-dissipating devices.
Description: SCP-XXXX is an intricately crafted music box of unknown origin, believed to date back to the 16th century. The exterior of the music box features elaborate engravings depicting shadowy figures engaged in various musical activities. The anomalous properties of SCP-XXXX manifest when the music box is opened.
Upon opening SCP-XXXX, a series of shadow entities, designated SCP-XXXX-1, are released. These entities manifest as humanoid silhouettes and exhibit behaviors that correlate with the emotional state of the individual who opened the music box. The shadows move with a fluidity and grace reminiscent of a choreographed performance, earning SCP-XXXX its designation as the "Shadow Symphony."
SCP-XXXX-1 entities are capable of manipulating shadows in their vicinity, creating intricate and dynamic shadow-based illusions. These illusions often mirror the emotional themes of the individual who activated SCP-XXXX, leading to captivating but potentially disturbing displays. The shadows can manifest as various shapes and forms, including recognizable figures and abstract patterns.
The Foundation must contain SCP-XXXX due to the psychological distress caused by SCP-XXXX-1 entities and the potential for reality-altering effects. Prolonged exposure to the shadow entities can induce heightened emotional states, ranging from euphoria to intense fear or sorrow. Individuals affected by SCP-XXXX-1 may become fixated on the shadows, experiencing difficulty distinguishing between reality and the illusions created by the entities.
Research is ongoing to understand the origin of SCP-XXXX and the nature of SCP-XXXX-1 entities. Efforts are being made to develop methods of mitigating the psychological impact of the Shadow Symphony and to devise protocols for safely interacting with SCP-XXXX for research purposes. Additionally, containment procedures emphasize the prevention of unauthorized access and the implementation of measures to dissipate or neutralize SCP-XXXX-1 entities in case of a breach.
