Special Containment Procedures
The object is held on a pedestal in a standard biological containment cell, located in a fortified wing of Site-03CS.
Since the last incident, the object is simply monitored for possible changes, while the research of latent anomalous properties and recovered exploration records continues.
Description
SCP-923-CS is a spherical object 10 cm in diameter. At first glance, the object looks to be made from opague red glass with anomalous thaumaturgic glyphs across its whole surface. Another detail of interest is a 3 cm long crack on the surface, which goes through several of the symbols. The object doesn't seem to be hollow but topographic measurement of the object revealed an anomalous space inside of roughly 9.2 km3. The measured volume of space oscilated with repeated tests, sometimes drastically between the lowest measured size of 0.3 km3 and the highest measurement of 37,418.5 km3. It is estimated that the anomalous spacetime within is highly unstable and probably subject to a lowered level of local reality.1
Thaumaturgic markings on the surface of SCP-923-CS were identified as a combination of Old Adytite2 and symbols derived from the Erikesh Codex.3 Foundation historians and archeologists were able to identify some of the Erikeshi runes, which seem to be responsible for maintaining the anomalous topology within.
Based on the object's inscriptions, SCP-923-CS was created to be an adaptible space serving as a form of prison for some kind of entity contained within.
SCP-923-CS was first discovered by Josef Eduard Souček, Czech explorer and scientist working for the Czech Depository of Abnormalities,4 during his travel to the Livorn Guberny in 1834. The object was consequently passed into other anomalous groups in Czechia and later acquired by the Czech SCP Foundation Branch in 1989.
Addenda
I.
Inciting Incident
An incident involving SCP-923-CS occured on the 7th of December 1989, when lingvist Vlastimil Čejka, Head researcher on the project, touched one of the symbols which began to glow red. After several seconds the red glow dissapeared and present assistents reported that researcher Čejka was missing.
The research team was tasked with investugating the incident but failed to replicate the conditions. Three days later Čejka was declared missing in action but after eight days since the incident he was found in SCP-923-CS's containment cell, visibly disoriented and confused. He was consequently interviewed.
♦ Post-incident interview I
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
Čejka: Finally someone- Dan, tell me anything, please. What happened?
Burian: Well, we're not really sure.
Čejka: Alright, so tell me what you are sure about.
Burian: You disappeared. For more than a week. We thought we'd never see you again.
Čejka: Really? But- what day is it?
Burian: Friday. 15th of December.
[Researcher Čejka is silent for a moment.]
Burian: What do you remember?
Čejka: A glow. Red light and then… a forest. Rustling leaves, roaring water. I think it transported me somewhere.
Burian: Are you sure?
Čejka: I was there for only a moment. It's like a dream. It hardly feels real. Was it really a whole week?
Burian: Eight days. Try to remember more, maybe it could be important.
[Researcher Čejka thinks for a moment while the room is silent.]
Čejka: No, I've got nothing. Jut the forest, red glow and running water… But Dan, tell me please, where's Klára?
Burian: No worries, cowboy. We didn't tell her anything, since she's coming back to Site on monday. You're lucky.
Čejka: Thanks Dan. I owe you.
Burian: It's nothing. But you could buy me a beer.
Čejka: [Laugh.] Isn't it still recording?
[END OF LOG]
After submitting to a full psychological and medical evaluation, it was decided to attempt replicating the conditions of the incident. Researcher Čejka agreed, even though some of his colleagues raised objection about the safety of testing. Čejka was instructed to approach SCP-923-CS and repeat what he had done during the initial incident. Before the test, he was equipped with a video and photo camera, GPS locator, compass, radio transmitter, 9mm pistol and food rations for several days alongside standard exploration equipment.
♦ Exploration Log I
[Researcher Čejka appears at a clearing within a partially snow-coveered deciduous forest. The video recording is tinted deep red which Čejka never mentions. Acquired recordings are probably anomalously damaged, because they exhibit a number of other anomalies, such as visual glitches or disjointed audio.]
[The most prominent point nearby seems to be a two meter tall visual anomaly floating mid-air near Čejka. The strange shape is pulsating with energy and glows. Its edges are translucent and it's difficult to ascertain where the shape ends.]
Čejka: I remember this. That's- that's the crack on the sphere just bigger. It has the same shape. Maybe that's my way back… does that mean I'm inside the sphere?
[After as short look around, Čejka decides to use his locator and compass. The magnetic compass needle spins clockwise with constant speed and the GPS locator is unable to pinpoint location. Radio transmitter cannot establish a connection to mission control on the other side of the portal. After a while, Čejka decides to start walking in one direction away from the crack.]
Čejka: Strange place. Everything looks European. I'm not good at biology but I recognise those trees. Can't remember if it was this cold last time. Don't see any signs of animals but I'd say it looks a little too well kept here for wilderness. Maybe there's people. I'll take a look around, shoot some pictures and go back.
[Čejka continues to follow a seemingly well-worn path between trees, until he arrives at a stream. He takes a handful of water in his palm and states that it is clean and drinkable. The recording freezes for another fifteen seconds but the audio keeps going.]
Čejka: There's someone there. Near the stream there.
???: [Unrecognizable female singing in an unknown language.]
[Recording jumps ahead and visual feed returns. Čejka is pointing towards the stream, where a female figure dressed in fur is kneeling. Details cannot be identified due to distance and camera quality.]
Čejka: [Silently.] She's singing and washing something. Maybe it's a religious ceremony… Saran… Vasa luli… That's from the inscription on the sphere. It's Old Adytite.
[The singing stops and Čejka notices the female figure is now looking his way. He decides to step out of the bush he was hiding in and the recording freezes for five seconds before ending abruptly.]
♦ Exploration Log II
[Video recording picks up again at a different location. It seems Čejka is standing in a small stone room overgrown by moss. The lighting inside is minimal and the only source of light comes from a small windowed niche on the left. The room is filled with primitive ceramics, bone tools and furs.]
[In the middle of the room is a seated woman with pale tattooed skin and black greasy hair. She is scantily clad in furs and pieces of leather. Her body seems to be human but exhibits multiple abnormalities (her ears seem to be curved and elongated; both of her hands have 6 fingers; a closed third eye sits in the middle of her forehead). In her hands close to her mouth she is holding a wooden bowl filled with some kind of liquid, as she carefully observes Čejka. He is also holding a bowl with some liquid and the recording shows something moving and swimming inside of it.]
???: Üra.
Čejka: Üra…
[The woman drinks from the bowl and Čejka does the same. From his initial reaction it seems Čejka does not like the taste of the liquid.]
Čejka: [Coughs.] Thanks, ehm, thank you.
???: You are welcome.
Čejka: … You speak Czech?
???: No, but you do. I borrowed your tongue.
Čejka: How did-
???: A mind-linking ritual. I connected you to my halkost so that we may understand each other.
Čejka: That is- fascinating. I apologise for not speaking more clearly before. I don't speak Adytite, I just know the basics.
???: [She smiles.] It's alright. It's more pleasant this way. You have a nice tongue, Vlasta.
Čejka: How do you- can you read my mind like this?
???: Yes.
Čejka: [Nervously.] I'm not sure I consent to that. You can know anything about me but it's one-sided.
???: I won't force my will upon you, if that's what you're afraid of. And my name is Talja of Akarsak, daughter of Valka and Luren.
Čejka: [Still nervously.] Pleased to meet you.
Talja: Where do you come from, Vlasta Čejka of the Foundation? Everything in your mind is so foreign to me.
Čejka: That is- that is a good question. The Foundation is- we're trying to understand the world and protect it as well.
Talja: Can't the world protect itself?
Čejka: [Laughs.] Hard to say. I mostly just study history of the world and cultures and languages of those who came before us.
Talja: Yes… it seems that you come from a rotten future of my world.
Čejka: What makes you say that?
Talja: I see your life before me. Shards of your world are strange but I understand them. People are still trapped within the cuffs of the Archons and my culture has been forgotten.
Čejka: That is not entirely true. There are followers of your faith all over the world in different communities and your culture was preserved better than many others.
Talja: The world has forgotten us. History turned the slaves of its masters against their liberators and the followers of the faith are blind.
[Silence.]
Čejka: Not everyone believes your culture is inherently evil.
Talja: It is sweet that you say that but I see inside your core what you truly think.
Čejka: Don't look at my fears but at my curiosity. I want to learn more. I want to experience your culture otherwise I'd turn around at the stream and go back to my superiors. I want to know more, I want to, to get to know-
Talja: -me… As you wish, Vlasta. I have to warn you however that our customs will disgust and outrage you and your devotion and desire for knowledge will be tested. I'm-
[Roughly thirty seconds before the end of the video recording, the visual cuts however the audio still plays until the end.]
II.
After action
On 19th of October 1992, almost three years after researcher Čejka entered SCP-923-CS, he was found back inside the object's containment cell. During his absence the experiment was considered a failure and Čejka was presumed lost or dead. This incident showed that the anomaly causes a temporal shift inside of SCP-923-CS.
As soon as Čejka was informed about the time elapsed since the begininng of the experiment, he became anxious and started asking about his friends and family. Based on his report, he spent roughly two weeks inside of SCP-923-CS. Recorded materials were passed onto the research team for analysis while Čejka underwent a medical examination as well as an interview conducted by the on-site psychologist, Dr. Daniel Burian.
♦ Post-incident interview II
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
[As soon as Dr. Burian enters the room, the stressed out Researcher Čejka starts questioning him and demands answers to his questions. Burian activates his dictaphone.]
Čejka: - please, Dan, say something dammit!
Burian: [Hugs him.] We thought you would never come back.
Čejka: I'm- I'm here. They said almost three years, Dan. Three! What happened?
Burian: We don't know. We think the anomaly is curving time and space inside but we don't really know how or how much…
Čejka: Three years… where's Klára?
Burian: Vlasta, please, don't-
Čejka: Where is Klára?
Burian: She's gone… started working elsewhere two years ago.
Čejka: [Starts slowly hyperventilating.] Where?
Burian: Sorry, I- I didn't want to be the one to tell you but you deserve to know.
Čejka: How- how is she doing?
Burian: Good, I think… breathe, yes, breathe- You can do this. Focus on the breathing.
Čejka: [Hyperventilating.] Where- where is- my mother? Jirka? My family? D-do they think-
Burian: Breathe.
Čejka: -that I'm dead?
Burian: Breathe, Vlasta. Look at me, breathe in and out, okay? Breathe in… and out…
[END OF LOG]
Considering the agitated state of Researcher Čejka, it was decided that Dr. Burian will be replaced as the psychologist for the interview by Dr. Kryštof Rezek, who didn't share any personal history with Čejka. The second interview was conducted almost 7 hours after the first one.
♦ Post-incident interview III
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
[Dr. Rezek enters the room. Čejka is sitting on a chair and doesn't respond to his presence. He looks apathetic towards the current situation.]
Rezek: Hello, my name is Dr. Rezek-
Čejka: [Coldly.] I remember you. We've never spoken but I know you from the hallways.
Rezek: I see, that will make this interview easier. Let's get right to it. I understand that you're in a state of sever emotional distress-
Čejka: -and you want me to tell you what I know, because it's more important than my emotions. Fine, I won't pretend like I don't get it… I understand how I look. I studied psychology for two semesters, as you surely know. I apologise for my outburst earlier. I'll tell you what I've found.
Rezek: You have nothing to apologise for. It's very understandable in your situation.
Čejka: Yeah… well, anyway I spent twelve days there, not three years, but you know that already. I've met aa woman there named- [Sighs.] Talja. She's Nälkä - a protosarkic, or at least I'd say so, even though she'd disagree. Based on how long she's been there, I'd say in real life… [His voice becomes shaky.]… probably a couple centuries passed, maybe even millenia.
Rezek: Why do you believe that?
Čejka: Because she had no idea what Christianity was.
Rezek: And how did you two communicate?
Čejka: Through her halkost. It's a form of telepathic mind link between multiple entities. She linked my mind with hers.
Rezek: Weren't you afraid that you might be threatened by her?
Čejka: Not really. People like her are still just human, even if they have a strange culture, I studied the Nälkä for a few years here in Prague. She welcomed me as a guest. I was polite and respected her will. I posed no threat to her.
Rezek: With all due respect, you couldn't have known how she would react. Did you learn anything from her?
Čejka: I was there for almost two weeks.
Rezek: Precisely.
Čejka: [Sighs.] I probably won't remember everything but we spoke a lot about the two of us. We wanted to know as much as possible about the other. So I told her everything she wanted to know and in return she told me a lot. Then we compared. She had a very strange perception of the world and faith, even stranger than many modern believers of these cults.
Rezek: Anything you can tell us about them will be appreciated.
Čejka: About who?
Rezek: The Sarkics.
Čejka: [Coughs.] Ehm, she's just one person. Probably from a culture that hasn't existed for thousands of years. I don't know how much of it will be of use to the Foundation. Modern followers of sarkicism don't havr much in common with her. What exactly do you want from me?
Rezek: Anything, Mr. Čejka. In those three- while you were gone, a lot has changed. The Sarkic threat has severely increased in many places across the globe. In Romania, Massachusetts and several places in Russia amongst others. The Sitra Achra Project was tasked with solving this issue and their liason wanted me to talk to you about it.
Čejka: [Confused.] Sorry, but I probably don't understand what it is you want from me. Of course I'll give you information.
Rezek: It seems that your trip inside of SCP-923-CS caught the attention of the right people. We'd like to send you back in.
[Silence.]
Čejka: [Quietly.] Are you out of your mind?
Rezek: I beg your pardon?
Čejka: You're insane! Three years! Three fucking years of my life was not enough?
Rezek: Please calm down-
Čejka: No no no. I already lost my girlfriend, and my family thought I was dead and now-
Rezek: Mr. Čejka! No one else can get inside of the anomaly. The information you can gather could save thousands, if not milions of lives! And this time we'd keep track of time-
Čejka: [Angrily.] This interview is over!
Rezek: Mr. Čejka, please, I am begging you-
Čejka: Get out!
[END OF LOG]
Despite the fact that Čejka terminated the interview and declined his further involvement in SCP-923-CS research, in the following week he contacted mission command with a request for his involvement. Dr. Burian raise objection to this decision and submitted a formal complaint which was investigated by the Ethics Committee. Burian argued that Čejka was being subjected to psychological pressure in a situation where he wasn't mentally stable. His complaint was denied due to an evaluation of Čejka's mental state which confirmed that he wanted to join of his own free will.
Following audio recording was secretly captured by Dr. Burian on 27th of October 1992 and was supposed to be sent alongside his complaint as evidence. The recording was never sent and it was discovered much later in Dr. Burian's personal belongings.
♦ Recovered Audio Log
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
Burian: -so you want to send him back there?
Rezek: He made that decision.
Burian: You know damn well that's not true. He thinks he lost everything and you are just abusing his mental state.
Rezek: That's a lie!
Burian: I know what you told him. You're convincing him to give up his life!
Rezek: He wants to return. Of his own free will. What more do you need to convince you?
Burian: He doesn't really want that. He's just broken and doesn't reaoise what he's doing.
Rezek: And you know better than him?
Burian: … I'm not saying thaz. But someone in his situation is obviously not ready for another exploration.
Rezek: Then why didn't you intervene? Why didn't you tell his family he's alive?
Burian: Because it's up to him to tell them. And he instead decided to do this.
Rezek: And you don't approve. You think he should make an informed decision and that he's not ready.
Burian: Yes…
Rezek: Why didn't you tell him the truth about Klára Stehlíková? Why didn't you tell him how his family is doing?
[Silence.]
Rezek: Because it wouldn't affect his decision. He would insist on continuing.
Burian: If you tell him anything-
Rezek: I will do no such thing. Mr. Čejka made a willful decision and I will respect it…
[END OF LOG]
III.
Exploration Logs
Following files were taken during Researcher Čejka's second exploration of SCP-923-CS, starting on 28th of October 1992. Recorded files still exhibit visual anomalies as with the first exploration. Mission plan counted with a maximum of one week inside the anomaly, to account for time dillation.
♦ Exploration Log III
[Researcher Čejka is walking on a forest path. Environment is not covered in snow as during the first exploration and after a while Čejka states out loud that he feels hot and follows by taking of his top layer of clothes. The camera sometimes flickers during his walk and Črjka comments on his surroundings.]
[Eventually Čejka enters a clearing with stone ruins, which were only partially visible on previous recordings. Stone ruins are in a good shape and obviously taken care of and even partiallly repaired. In between some of the stones is a pulsating red matter connecting them together. This material is not examined further on record but seems to be organic matter controlled via thaumaturgic means.]
[Talja is standing in the middle of a small courtyard but her body has drastically changed since last recording. Instead of a right hand, an elongated fleshy tendril is protruding from her body and is connected to a large fleshy construct moving across the courtyard. This construct is somewhat reminiscent of a human hand with seven fingers, used both for locomotion and moving of large stones. At first Čejka only observes as Talja's autonomous limb places a chiseled stone on a low wall, and then he musters enough courage to approach her.]
Čejka: [Waves at her to gain her attention.] Hey!
[The entity continues its work while Talja turns to face Čejka and walks towards him. Her right limb disconnects after several steps and Talja continues without her right arm.]
Talja: I see you're back. But there is such chaos within your mind… I missed your company. Come sit with me and you can tell me everything.
Čejka: I'm glad to be back too. Ehm, couldn't you just look into my mind?
Talja: I could. But I was alkne for so long. I miss human voices.
Čejka: Alright but I don't really want to talk about it.
Talja: What happened?
Čejka: I- from your perspective I was probably gone for a long time but for me, it was only a few days. I don't know-
Talja: How is that possible?
Čejka: Yes, well, this place seems to distort time.
Talja: Erikeshi spell.
Čejka: What do you mean?
Talja: This prison was built a long time ago in a city of powerful mages called Erikesh. Ehrn I was a little girl, my grandmother told me stories about this city. They were powerful wizards and seers. Could rule the earth and call on the wind. Time and physical space were but clay for the most powerful of their kind. One they could form how they pleased.
Čejka: You've mentioned this being a prison. Who was it for?
Talja: A false god. One of many. This temple- [She points to the ruins around.] -it was once his. But that was long before my time.
Čejka: I- I know I already asked you but- how long have you been here?
Talja: I really don't know. The prison changes our perception and dulls the senses. Days sometimes last longer and sometimes the nights don't come at all. Winter reigned during your last visit and now it's summer, but my blood tells me it should be winter again.
Čejka: Your blood?
Talja: I've bled eleven times since last winter. That is the only way I can keep track of time here.
Čejka: So you don't know how long it's been but it's been really long…
Talja: I think it has to be at least ten winters. But I stopped counting after some time.
Čejka: Why didn't you leave?
Talja: [Laughs.] I cannot leave, Vlasta.
Čejka: Why not?
Talja: The people of Erikesh built an inescapable prison. You are but a visitor here, while I am trapped.
Čejka: But how? Why does it treat me differently than you?
Talja: I too was but a visitor. But that changed when I killed the false god once imprisoned here and I ate his heart.
Čejka: [Silence.] You mean- that you are this god now?
Talja: No, I'm not saying that. I am far from actual apotheosis. He was a god in name only and nothing else. Just a man with great power and a bigger ego. I knew he didn't deserve his power and I travelled here to kill him.
[Silence.]
Talja: I apologise if that was too much. I keep forgetting that we're foreign to one another. You know I won't hurt you.
Čejka: No no, I am sorry. It's not fear of you, just… When I left, three years have passed in my world… [Sharp inhale.] My family thinks I'm dead and my girlfriend…
Talja: I am so sorry.
Čejka: I don't really want to talk about it much…
Talja: Then let's not. I want to show you something.
Čejka: Is that where we're going?
Talja: Yes and no.
Čejka: What does that m-
[Audio cuts out for two minutes while Čejka and Talja continue through the forest. Video feed also cuts after another 2 minutes.]
♦ Exploration Log V
[The video starts with a view at Talja sitting on the ground. Her body has significantly changed since last time and she has her right hand back. She also posseses two more feathered limbs which resemble wings. Her third eye is gone and instead she has strange antennae-like organs on her forehead, which emit a soft glow. The strangest part of her body is a large circular hole in her chest, through which living organs can be seen. Besides regular human organs, a second heart can be seen inside. Talja doesn't seem concerned by her current situation. The camera sits on the ground and Researcher Čejka can be seen closely examining Talja's internal anatomy.]
Čejka: -so why does it let only me inside?
Talja: I'm not sure. Maybe the spell broke due to time, or because I penetrated the prison to get inside.
Čejka: But nobody else ever visited you, right?
Talja: I never said that. There were a few others before you. But no one was… as accepting as you.
Čejka: I'll take that as a compliment… I wonder though, why do you keep this very human appearance, when you can transform your body into anything you like?
Talja: I don't think I understand you.
Čejka: When we first met, you looked almost like an ordinary human. You had a third eye and a few extra fingers but-
Talja: Ah, I see what you mean now. Vlasta, I am just an ordinary human. My form even now is purely human. We humans are creatures of flesh and our form is tied to it. We can shape it, shift it and add to it, but we can never truly escape it by changing our appearance. So long as I remain tied to my physical burdens, I will be human. We are creatures of many forms but only one true nature.
Čejka: Alright, I get that. But why the simple form? Why not always have wings? Or a third heart? A second brain, or- anything? I bet you can regenerate any part of your body… Why not use your abilities to their fullest extent?
Talja: Because you grow bored of it. And it leads one astray from the correct path. True pleasure in life cannot be found in this world but in freedom outside of this bodily vessel. Your religion also tells you to restrain yourself from earthly pleasures, does it not?
Čejka: My religion? I- well, yes, I grew up believing in Christ but I was never really commited to faith.
Talja: Hm… Why not?
Čejka: [Laughs.] I thought you of all people would understand why I didn't want to believe in God.
Talja: I'm not talking about your God. But about faith.
Čejka: Well, I suppose I believe in what Bible says, or at least what I remember. Lovy thy neighbor, free will and such…
Talja: Something similar is written in the Valkzaron.
Čejka: Hm… I suppose Jesus and Ion are somewhat similar characters…
Talja: I wouldn't say so.
Čejka: Well, maybe not that similar.
Talja: … the followers of Ozi̮rmok's teachings have been led astray-
Čejka: Not all of them.
Talja: But many! I hate the idea of them twisting his words so they can serve the gods.
Čejka: Didn't Ion say, "Know that our paradise draws near and with our own flesh shall we birth it"?
Talja: That isn't what he meant by that.
Čejka: Unfortunately a lot of people think so. They see his teachings as a threat to the rest of the world.
Talja: [She covers her body using her wings. Čejka retreats back a little.] And they sent you, so that I might tell you everything I know. So you can find a weakness that would destroy these servants of the gods.
Čejka: Yes… but I don't think that's the right way to go about it. These people have nothing in common with you. My superiors just like to throw everyone in the same bag.
Talja: [Slowly unfurls her wings again.] And you don't think I could be a threat to your world?
Čejka: I think you're a normal human, just like the rest of us. You have your own head and you make your decisions. But I also think that you're unique.
Talja: [Blushes.] That's a contradiction.
Čejka: I think I'd rather say that we are creatures of many forms but only one true nature.
Talja: [Laughs.] You're using my own words against me. And you're laughing!
Čejka: [Laughs.] What? This doesn't count as earthly pleasure, right?
[The recording suddenly jumps forward several minutes. The camera is shaking and Čejka seems to be putting on his clothes.]
Talja: I'm sorry, this wasn't a good idea.
Čejka: It's alright. [Video recording is shaking as Čejka quickly exits the room. Camera is flodded by exterior light and the video recording ends shortly after.]
IV.
Physical changes
On 3rd of March 1993, several months before his supposed return, Researcher Čejka reappeared in SCP-923-CS's containment unit. Čejka confirmed that he spent two months inside of the anomaly, even though mission was supposed to only last one week. Shortly after his return, Čejka underwent a medical examination which revealed multiple physiological abnormalities.
— Researcher Čejka's eyes were altered, allowing him to see light outside of the visible spectrum for humans.
— His lower jaw area was altered in a way that allows for more flexibility and movement. Specifically his larynx muscles which he can control with precision to create many different kinds of noises usually impossible for human to do. Čejka's tongue is elongated and resembles that of a snake.
— His spine no longer has scoliosis and several bones in his body exhibit signs of healed fractures, which were not present before.
— Čejka's immune system seems to be unusually resilient, similar to other cases of people exposed to Sarkic anomalies.
— In the skin on his left arm, along his elbow, there are several rows of skin derivates reminiscent of feathers. In comparison to other bodily modifications, these feathers are not perfectly anchored in the skin and bear marks of scarring.
♦ Post-incident interview IV
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
[Doors open and Dr. Burian quickly enters the room in a biohazard suit.]
Burian: Are- are you alright?
Čejka: Why wouldn't I be? Just because I look different?
Burian: That's- I've told them not to send you in. Someone will pay for this-
Čejka: Dan, I'm alright.
Burian: How can you say that? You don't even sound the same.
Čejka: [Sighs.] I changed my looks but it's still me.
Burian: All of that for the Foundation?
Čejka: No. And definitely not for Dr. Rezek. I did this for myself. For me.
Burian: [Silence.] Rezek is… well, Rezek… listen… whatever that woman made you do-
Čejka: She didn't force me into anything. It was Rezek who tried to convince me to return. It was diferent with her. I let Talja show me something new. I trust her and she appreciates that trust.
Burian: Alright… sorry, you were always the more open one between the two of us. I'm not really comfortable with this. Just- just tell me- Are you happy?
Čejka: … it's a process. From my point of view, it's been barely two and a half months since I lost Klára. Since I last spoke with my mother and with Jirka… I'm still getting over the pain. But I realised they probably got over theirs a long time ago.
Burian: Vlasta-
Čejka: Is Klára happy?
Burian: I-
Čejka: You don't have to give me details, just- is she happy, wherever she is?
[Dr. Burian swallows and nodds. His eyes are focused on Čejka.]
Čejka: That has to be enough for me…
Burian: Why did you go back there?
Čejka: Because I needed it. Nothing made sense to me and the last stuff that did was my mision. But there was more to it- I needed to see Talja again. To talk to her and find out more about her.
Burian: You said you let her do all of this to you… you must really trust her.
Čejka: I do. Just like I trust you.
Burian: You've spent a lot of time there… a lot more than you were supposed to.
Čejka: But a lot less time passed here.
Burian: [Slams his hand into the desk.] You couldn't have known that!
Čejka: Sorry. I don't know why I didn't want to return…
Burian: I get it. You thought there was nothing left for you here but that's bullshit. I'm still here. You still have friends. And if you wanted, you still have your family too.
Čejka: [Apathetic.] They burried me a long time ago.
Burian: You're not dead.
Čejka: [Sighs.] I know. Sorry.
Burian: … You're planning on going back. Aren't you?
Čejka: … Sorry.
Burian: [Sighs.] Promise me something.
Čejka: What?
Burian: That you'll come back.
Čejka: Hm… should I pinky promise?
Burian: I'm serious.
Čejka: You know me, right?… I'll come back.
[END OF LOG]
♦ Post-incident interview V
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
[Doors open and Dr. Rezek carefuly enters the room in a biohazard suit.]
Rezek: Čejka.
Čejka: You know I'm not infectious… this is hardly necessary.
Rezek: I prefer to be careful.
Čejka: Yeah, right. Well, I suppose you want to know whether or not I'm open to going back and finding out more information?
Rezek: Yes, that is why I'm here. Let's be honest with each other.
Čejka: Yes, let's. Because it's the fastest way to get out of this interview.
Rezek: Right… what did you find out? You claim to have been there for two months, but there are very few recordings.
Čejka: Everything I found out is on the recordings. Everything necessary. I conducted experiments on the anomalous biology inside of SCP-923-CS. Including my own. I found out how to make basic modification to my skin but it requires more than just time and practice. It's about a change of perspective, so I don't expect you to understand. I'm still loyal to the Foundation, no matter what you think of me and how you treat me.
Rezek: If you feel that we are treating you unfairly-
Čejka: I don't have a feeling, just clearly defined lines for myself that define what is right and what isn't.
Rezek: What do you mean?
Čejka: Not that I'd like to speak to my family… let's be honest, me and you, we both know there's a reason I haven't spoken to them. I simply don't want to. But if I did, you wouldn't let me anyway.
Rezek: Are you trying to blame me for something?
Čejka: I want you to know, that everything I have done was of my own free will. But that doesn't give you the right to treat me, or anyone else, like you own the place. Do you understand me?
Rezek: I do…
Čejka: Fine. Because this interview is over. You'll find everything you need in my notes and recordings. I want to go back into action as soon as possible. Oh, and doctor?
Rezek: Yes?
Čejka: … when I get back, I want to talk to anyone other than you. It's not a request. I just wanted to say it on record.
[END OF LOG]
V.
Back into the anomaly
Despite several complaints beings filled against another exploration of SCP-923-CS by Researcher Čejka, based on his physical abnormalities, he was ultimately allowed to continue after his psychological assesment by both Dr. Burian and Dr. Rezek. Čejka provided satisfactory results from his first two mission and his recovered materials helped the ongoing research of Sarkic culture and language. His third mission into SCP-923-CS occured on the 6th of March 1993.
♦ Exploration Log VI
[The recording shows a stone structure towering upwrds roughly fifteen meters. In some places between stones is a visible red pulsating tissue, which bulges slightly and deflates again, as if the structure itself is breathing. pillars surrounding the building are reinforced by sinew-like material in some places. On the stairs of the building lies a four meter long coiled organism reminiscent of a centipede with a human torso covered by cape. As the entity notices Čejka, it takes of it's cape.]
Talja: Took you long enough.
Čejka: I know… but I'm home now.
[Talja's form strains and her human torso detaches from her centiepede body, which lies still for a moment before it starts slowly crawling inside of the building. Talja's body has changed since her last appearance. It is carried by seven legs, some human and some with hook-like tendrils. Her top half seems to be mostly human, however her skin is covered in small thorns and new tattooes. As Talja approaches, Čejka also comes closer to her.]
Talja: Welcome back, Vlasta. I missed you.
Čejka: [Shakily.] I missed you too.
[The recording stops, possibly due to anomalous interference.]
♦ Exploration Log VII
[Camera seems to be laying on the ground in a pile of tossed clothes. It is pointed towards an empty stone wall illuminated by a nearby fire. Based on the volume of their voices, Talja and Čejka seem to be somewhere nearby.]
Čejka: [Souftly whispers.] How long has it been for you?
Talja: Almost seven years, I think.
Čejka: I'm so sorry… I didn't want to leave you.
Talja: Your people needed you.
Čejka: I don't want to ever leave you again. [Soft crying.]
Talja: Hush… It's not your fault, Vlasta.
Čejka: I-if… if only I could get you out of here.
Talja: Vlasta, you know that's not possible.
Čejka: We have the technology. We can do miracles and this prison is old, maybe-
Talja: But I don't want out… I already told you… I'm fine where I am. Your world is alien to me…
Čejka: Would you do it for me?
Talja: [Silence.] Don't say such things… You know I would sacrifice myself for you, same as you did for me.
Čejka: Sacrifice for others is a highest honor.
Talja: But that doesn't mean we have to make it. Not when there are other ways.
Čejka: You want me to leave my world and I'll do it. I'll live here with you.
Talja: [Silence.] Sorry, I- I don't know what to say. I don't want to be alone but I don't want to see you trapped here like I am.
Čejka: We'll have each other.
Talja: And what if we get sick of that?
Čejka: Why do you say that? I can't constantly tear myself between two worlds… I choose you.
Talja: This place plays tricks on the mind. Loneliness is one thing, but time and space don't work right here. Days pass into one another and trees overtake paths within minutes. It snows in the summer and sometimes it rains for years. I too would change if I didn't learn to control my form so well…
Čejka: I know that… but if I'm not here with you, it will be just you alone here. And- I also don't have anything to live for other than my service to the Foundation. They'll manage without me.
Talja: [Silence.] I love you.
[Audio is damaged and records only unidentifiable rustling sounds in the background.]
Čejka: And I love you.
[The rest of the recording is intact but was removed from this file due to a request from Dr. Burian regarding Researcher Čejka's privacy.]
♦ Exploration Log VIII
[Talja and Čejka are sitting on grass in a meadow. The camera is laying on a rock and pointed towards them sitting across from each other. Their anomalous physiology changed again. Talja's ears became large and leathery like those of some species of bats. Her bare chest is suprisingly human-like but some of her ribs are visibly protruding through her skin. Čejka's arms became fully feathered wings with still human hands at their ends. His face is more soft and feminine. There is a thirdd eye located in the middle of his forehead.]
Čejka: [Softly.] Are you certain this will work?
Talja: Lightweight bones and wings? This time it will.
Čejka: I trust you.
Talja: I know. [She tilts her head forward and kisses him.]
Čejka: Suddenly I'm really scared and nervous.
Talja: That's normal. Young birds must feel fear so they have something to overcome.
Čejka: [Laughs.] Don't make fun of me.
Talja: It's going to be alright. Just wait until you see the temple from above. It will be worth it.
Čejka: Your work is always worth it. You're an amazing artist.
Talja: Thank you. It took me a really long time to learn how to work with stone. It's not as easy to shape as bones or skin.
Čejka: It looks incredible.
Talja: It's not a proper Kiraak that I would nurture. It's a part of me created from little bits of both of us. It took many years of love and care to shape it into this and it will take many more years before it trully blooms and matures.
Čejka: You say it so romantically.
Talja: Hm…
Čejka: What is it? I know that look.
Talja: I was just thinking about how much you've changed since I first met you by the river.
Čejka: I've always been open. You just helped me cross this new frontier.
Talja: Yes… I know you've been curious but you forget I see into you. Your mind grew up in a different society and your morality would not allow for the existence of our love.
Čejka: Our world has different rules. Different culture… But it can adapt. We are as resilient as bone and as elastic as sinew.
Talja: Do you think your people still have hope?
Čejka: Why not? Humanity managed to overcome so many things. I believe we'll defeat the Archons one day too. Whether the final blow will be dealt by our scientists, or a follower of Ion's teachings.
Talja: I'd like to believe as you do. I hope the chains of humanity will be destroyed and everyone will be able to reach freedom. But I haven't been able to truly believe for a while… I don't pray anymore and I'm unsure whether I ever truly believed in it. Faith is not something you can enforce. You must arrive to it. And I think I lost myself somewhere along the way… Maybe I deserve this prison…
Čejka: You'll find it again, Talja. Until then, we have each other. There's a certain type of freedom in that, don't you think?
Talja: [Silently.] You're right.
[The audio footage ends but the video recording keeps going for a few more minutes until Čejka gets upp to turn off the camera. A closer look at his body reveals a wider pelvis and elongated thin legs with bird-like talons, as well as semi-translucent soft skin on his chest, through which blood vessels can be seen.]
VI.
Last visit
On 11th of March 2025 at 23:51, after almost 32 years, V. Čejka reappaered in SCP-923-CS's containment cell, which has been virtually untouched since the year 2000, when research of the object was suspended. Čejka was considered lost in action and his sudden return was very unexpected. Two members of on-site security reacted agressively towards percieved threat but were quickly dispatched with minimal injury. Čejka requested to speak with Dr. Daniel Burian, to give him information from his mission in SCP-923-CS. He also refused to submit to standard protocols.
Čejka's appearance, while significantly altered, didn't include any major visual changes from his last visit in 1993. His anatomy became more androgynous and even feminine, his eyes became a different color and his skeletal and muscular structures were enhanced.
After a permission was granted by the site director, Dr. Burian was woken up in his on-site apartment for the purpose of conducting an interview. As soon as he was informed about the purpose of this unusual occurence, he agreed to meet Čejka and refused the usage of a protective suit.
♦ Post-incident interview VI
[BEGINNING OF LOG]
[Čejka stands with his hands behind back and examines SCP-923-CS on its pedestal. Dr. Burian enters the room with a cane in hand and ensures the member of site security that he will enter alone. Despite this, he is accompanied by Dr. Anna Burianová, who places a chair on the ground while he protests.]
Burian: Thank you, Anna, but now you should go.
Burianová: [Towards Burian.] Are you sure, dad?
Čejka: [Disbelief.] You had a daughter…
Burianová: [Towards Burian.] I'll be in the hall if you need anything…
[Dr. Burianová leaves the room.]
Burian: Don't worry about me. [Towards Čejka.] It's not healthy to visit old friends like this without warning. I almost got a heart attack when they told me your name.
Čejka: How long has it been?
Burian: Almost thirty two years. You're lucky I'm still here. [Coughs.] How long for you?
Čejka: About a third of that.
Burian: So that's why you never came back. That Sarkic girl of yours has been pampering you.
Čejka: [Laughs.] I beg your pardon?
Burian: Just saying that you could have at least called. I'm angry at you, it's just hard because it's midnight and I'm so fucking happy to see you again. Let this old man be a little bitter.
Čejka: Hm, it's great to see you, Dan… I see you're still doing great. Did they offer you the director seat yet?
Burian: I'd never accept that even if they gave me no choice. Sure, I'd love to start doing something like that with my age. [Coughs.]
Čejka: Time hasn't been too kind to you, friend. I'm sorry this visit didn't happen sooner. But I'm here now. Promises have to be kept.
Burian: Yeah, well, honestly I gave up waiting on you about twenty years ago.
Čejka: I don't blame you. You had your life and I had mine.
Burian: So you're happy over there?
Čejka: Like never before. But sometimes I miss this world. I miss the smell of coffee or conversation with old friends. But I belong there now.
Burian: Well, it seems to be good for you. You say you've been with her there for years and you haven't killed each other yet. And I don't see any wrinkles on you. As a matter of fact, I see you've changed a lot.
Čejka: Sorry, I- wanted to look more human again, so my return doesn't end up being a nightmare. So I picked this form. It's not Vlastimil Čejka, but it is me.
Burian: I always knew you were a bit different. But I'm not here to judge you. No matter what you look, I'm definitely jealous of that young skin. [Coughs.]
Čejka: There are ways for you to be young again too.
Burian: Are you kidding? I'd never trade this for anything. I'm glad for you but my life is good the way it is. I have a loving wife, two daughters and a son. The Foundation pays well and I've been doing what I love all my life. Making my life longer sounds nice, but I don't think that's something for me.
Čejka: That sounded almost practiced.
Burian: I've waited for thirty years for you to show up and try to rope me into this as well. I've- [Coughs.] Ehm, I've- [Coughs.] I've known for a long time what to say to that.
Čejka: [Silence.] How is Klára?
Burian: Klára?
Čejka: Your wife.
Burian: How did- how did you know?
Čejka: Dan, even when me and Klára dated, I remember how you looked at her. When the incident happened, you avoided her name like it was cursed. Don't be afraid. I've made my peace with it and I'm glad you two worked out well.
Burian: But… I've never told you about her beacuse I didn't want to make things harder for you. So I just avoided it.
Čejka: Thanks… I wouldn't take it well back then, when it was fresh. But it makes sense… [Silence.] Your daughter has her eyes.
Burian: Yeah… she does… Anička is kind but she's too concerned about me sometimes.
Čejka: Maybe she should be afraid. Who knows what I could do to you?
Burian: You couldn't do anything to me because that's simply not who you are.
Čejka: Who am I? You haven't seen me in thirty years. People change.
Burian: They don't change their heart. You're a good person, Vlasta.
Čejka: If you say so… I guess I'll just have to push down the urge to kill you. [Laughs.]
Burian: [Starts laughing but coughs instead.]
Čejka: Sorry, are you sure you're feeling well?
Burian: Of course, of course. I'm just not young anymore.
Čejka: We can talk about something else… what happened while I was gone?
Burian: Seriously? I don't even know where to start. Everything just kinda moved along and I don't even know how it was before. But I'll tell you the important stuff. Your family is okay.
Čejka: I'm glad.
Burian: Are you sure you don't want to meet them?
Čejka: And what would we say to each other? No, it's better to leave it like this. I'm someone else and they are foreign to me as well.
Burian: The two of us have a lot to talk about though.
Čejka: I suppose so. But I cannot remain here for long.
Burian: Of course… the time dillation and all… but at least for a while longer?
Čejka: [Laughs.] Assuming the Foundation leaves me alone, I can stay for a day or two.
Burian: Don't worry about that. The director is my friend, he'll allow it.
Čejka: If you say so. I'll trust you. You've always had a good taste in friends.
[END OF LOG]
Čejka passed along all of his gathered information, including video and audio recordings, photographic evidence, research notes, samples and his diaries, to researchers from Site-03CS. He was entrusted to Dr. Burian under his suprevision and was granted visitor-tier security clearance. Čejka spent three days on-site with Dr. Burian and returned to SCP-923-CS on 14th of March 2025.
Low level research of the anomaly restarted once again.
Update
With the development of new technologies in 2028, an ontokinetic probe based on the Thaumaturgic Refraction Principle and Time-Space stabilization technology was designed by Foundation Engineering Department. One such probe was sent into SCP-923-CS to attempt exploration of the anomalous location within.
After succesfully entering SCP-923-CS, the probe's feed captured a large plain made of living tissue, with trees marking the edge of this plain in the distance. The only visible structure nerby was a tall temple from Čejka's recordings.
The structure visibly pulsated and breathed. The stone walls were overgrown in blood vessels and tissue. The interior of the temple contained a five meter tall membranous organ resembling a massive human heart. The organ was connected to many blood-vessels and fleshy muscles nearby, which presumably allowed the structure to pump blood throughout the entire building. The massive organ seems to be grown from two different interwoven parts, which fused together.On a stone pedestal in the middle of the building is an engraved verse inscription:
Here we are You and I
what once was is no more.
On the last page in the sky.
Take no regrets into your core.
Don't feel bad for any promise,
empty parts, or those that broke.
Only cry for a moment's notice.
And let me finish the epiloque.
Who am I and who I'll be?
A dual thing, both You and I.
One blood flow, let's call it: We.
Love and lust, give it a try.
Am I sad that it is over?
Maybe but why shed a tear?
I'd be a miser and a loner
to let go and stay in here.
Just continue. Why the strife?
This existence is however
feeling, loving, living life…
Means to restrain, to be clever.
To forget forevermore.
Life - Death. You - Me. Wed.
Dual being, like we swore.
Alone, together, our forms shed.
As you're feeling,
my true love's ration.
Writing this and really seeing
your blood-red passion.