SCP-5291
Item #: SCP-5291
Object Class: Safe
Special Containment Procedures: SCP-5291 is to be kept in Dr. Geri's office SCP-5291 is to be stored in a standard containment locker. Subjects who have successfully used SCP-5291 are to have their existing cells customized dependent on the extent of their transformation.
Testing of SCP-5291 is to continue for as long as researchers believe they can discover why SCP-5291 is dysfunctional.
Description: SCP-5291 is a mechanical typewriter that is incapable of transferring ink to paper, with no discernable reason as to why. Despite each key fully extending its respective striker when pressed, and despite the ribbon leaving traces of ink when contacted without the use of the keys, the typewriter does not leave any distinguishable mark when used normally.
SCP-5291 was discovered by Dr. Samuel Geri within an antique shop. After 35 hours of personally examining it, Dr. Geri brought it to the Foundation and insisted that it be tested. As of writing, Dr. Geri has also volunteered to be responsible for testing and containment of the anomaly.
Addendum 5291-1: SCP-5291 has proven functional on certain occasions, though the precise conditions required are so far unclear.
Use of SCP-5291 also results in transformation of the user; however, the connection between the text and the effect are not always clear (see Testing Log 5291-1). Testing will now continue until researchers can determine the cause of the inconsistency of SCP-5291.
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dear Geri,
You win, it's anomalous. We've tried everything to fix it: Replacing the ribbon over and over, using the cleanest paper imaginable, making sure every screw was in place, warping reality throughout the chamber, even negotiating with the damn thing. Still, we don't see why it needs to be contained, at least in an official cell. I'll speak to the guys responsible for the documentation, but you may as well keep it in your office for now. Maybe someone will trip and knock it on the floor, and that will somehow fix it.
Regards,
-Frederick Rodgers
To: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
From: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dearest Rodgers,
I have tripped, fallen, and fixed the typewriter. In a way.
What's happened is that during unrelated testing, I've met a specific D-class several times. Started out quite the curious fellow. However, he kept getting quieter and quieter as the days went on. I found myself curious, since testing in my case is of course not life threatening or particularly stressful. So, I invited him to my office to talk about it (and I know you tell me it's useless to connect with D-class personnel but wait till you hear what happened!)
I asked him what the problem was. He remained quiet, and just glanced around the room at my things. After a bit more prodding, I offhandedly asked if he'd like to write it down for me. At that, he wordlessly picked up the typewriter, sat down, and began pecking away. I couldn't help but wait to see him react to nothing appearing on the paper, thinking it might encourage him to open up more directly. But then he kept on typing and handed me the sheet. And as you've probably guessed, there were words on it. Imagine that! Also, there was a bit of an odd side effect; you'll see what I mean.
I've written up a test log, so you hand it to those documentation boys while I find this thing a proper locker.
High hopes,
-Gerry
Testing Log 5291-1:
Test 1
Subject
D-072067
Date
March 12, 2013
Transformation
Subject has lost approximately 50% of their volume and mass.
Written content
When I first woke up here, that tiny ass cell was all I knew of this place. Then one of you lot opened and dragged me to one of these tests. And every time we left after that, we'd go down a different corridor. I tried to draw a map in my cell, but it just kept going and going. I expected a boundary, or at least a window somewhere. Every time I think I've found the edge, I see a turn that goes straight past it. And that says nothing of each room I've been in, the things I've had to witness, to survive.
Then one day I go back to my cell and find the map completely erased. There wasn't a camera in my cell. Or was there? Were there other ways you creeps could listen? They wouldn't be listening in on you, though, right? They wouldn't see a note like this, would they?
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dear Geri,
How often have you been testing? You'll want to keep it up as much as possible. We'll figure out eventually don't worry; why else would we be in the profession of dealing with the anomalous? And just imagine what will happen when we finally know what makes it tick. We might even have a new Thaumiel SCP on our hands; imagine agents and researchers being able to shape shift themselves as they type. Sounds incredibly useful in our field, huh?
We just have to keep testing. Testing is our specialty, right?
-Frederick Rodgers
To: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
From: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dearest Rodgers,
I'm glad to hear you're enthusiastic, Rodgers. I hope it stays lively as we continue.
Now, as for testing so far, I've been staying on schedule. Problem is it feels like we're back at square one while passing Go. Yeah, I've had one new result, but we've still come full circle. Aside from the one guy who now has poorer eyesight (well, it's a little different than that, but still), I would say we've done several variations of having a putz push keys on a typewriter. The conditions that had the most promise (that being, letting a D-class wander my office until he eventually decides to play with the typewriter) gave didly squat. In fact, the most recent success was in an average, dull testing chamber where we asked one of them to type "whatever came to his mind." The sheer opposite of before.
I also wouldn't bet on this being a very useful asset to the Foundation. The exact transformation that comes from what someone types seems rather finicky and difficult to predict. Although, that's admittedly conjecture based on the two cases we've got.
Still, two cases are better than one. Worth a celebration, really. Would you like a friendly drink later? I know a great craft beer place.
-Gerry
Test 2
Subject
D-418876
Date
November 20, 2013
Transformation
Subject's pupils have compressed to the point of entirely preventing light from contacting the retina. Despite this, subject claims to be viewing the city of Chicago from the ground level. Subject states they are unable to alter the location and angle of their viewing. Comparing the subject's observations with activity in the area confirms they are viewing in real time.
Written content
There was a river I could stare into forever. Fields of pure grass lined both of its borders. The boats full of fishermen and fisherwomen would interrupt my viewing sessions, their passengers looking ahead and not down; not to mention the bridge I stood on would break on occasion, forcing me to stand to the side so it could eventually repair itself. Otherwise, the river was mine. Made for me. Made for everyone I suppose, but only appreciated by me.
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dear Geri,
By this point, a subject's capability in grammar no longer appears relevant. Maybe we should consider what kind of writing the typewriter might accept? So far it may work if someone is describing an experience they've had. Simple as that. Sure, results might still be scarce, but we could at least eliminate one possibility if nothing comes of it in another couple years.
Listen, my hopes have died down, and I'm sure yours have too by now. You know that phrase that goes something like "Doing the same thing over and over defining sanity?" It feels like we have no choice but to do that. With how long results take, who knows what's a step forward or a step back?
Maybe we should call this closed for now.
-Rodgers
To: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
From: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dearest Rodgers,
That possibility you've brought up has just been eliminated. Don't have to give it a few years this time; we've gotten another success. And I can assure you this one was not writing about a real experience he had, at least as far as science is concerned. Can't say if it's good luck or bad luck in this case. But it's always encouraging, I suppose.
Keep sending me any suggestions you think of regardless. Focus like that is what helps me out quite a bit.
-Gerry
Test 3
Subject
D-123113
Date
September 15, 2015
Transformation
Subject has become completely transparent to those around them. Similarly, subject claims that the people around them have become transparent from their perspective. Clothes and accessories are not affected by this.
Written content
Once upon a time a crab at the bottom of the ocean found himself lost. Suddenly he saw a shark coming along. He buried himself in the sand and hid in his shell. The shark ate him anyway. The crab stayed in his shell, and the shark continued to swim. He went through the shark's whole system until he popped right out and landed on the sand again. He found himself lost again. The end.
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dear Geri,
I noticed you updated the test log. Let me just say I'm glad you've finally reached a point where you have the privilege of doing so. However, that's not why I'm emailing.
I thought we'd both forgotten about testing SCP-5291 by now. So, when I saw the latest success, I couldn't help but message a higher up for more information. And then they tell me you've been ordering D-class personnel every day since 2015.
Listen, it's none of my business, but are you alright? You've even been coming in on weekends. I know it takes less than an hour to perform this kind of test, but still, this is bordering on an obsession from my perspective. You don't have to keep this up. There's no practical reason for it. I've a few other projects I could use assistance on. Maybe help me with those instead?
-Rodgers
To: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
From: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Rodgers,
I'm surprised at you on a lot of things as well. Surprised that you bothered to email me after all this time, that you've been checking the testing log in the slightest, and especially that you would want to work with me again. It was kind of disheartening when you didn't respond, to be honest.
I would love to work with you again, but I still must set aside time for SCP-5291. It's fine if I must continue testing myself. I've discovered it's better, even. Gives me an excuse to chat with D-class personnel for a bit each day. That's more conversation than I get from my peers, for sure.
Just leave the 5291 business to me, that's all.
-Gerry
Test 4
Subject
D-607090
Date
October 2, 2018
Transformation
Subject's heartbeat has grown to a volume of 75 dBA. Subject's heart rate and blood pressure have only sustained a minor increase on average. Subject has been unable to sleep due to the noise. Request for earmuffs is currently being processed.
Written content
When I pause to think
I stop to breath.
When I stop to breath,
I think about breath.
When I think about breath,
I can't stop thinking
Or else I stop breathing.
Which is why I avoid
Pausing to think.
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Dear Geri,
Hey, two results in less than a year. That's exciting.
Listen, I got the sense you were upset from the last email you sent. So, I thought it better to drop it. I should've at least responded more, even if I couldn't directly help. That drink we shared was fun; remember that discussion we had regarding the source of the anomalous? We argued for an hour, but I remember you smiling the whole time. I don't think I was smiling, but I think I was enjoying myself.
It's just that, if you couldn't tell, I didn't see anything beneficial to testing SCP-5291. Hell, I still don't. And if there's nothing beneficial to it, how can it help you? You've got talent, I can see it; you might realize I'm the only one who sees it. Other researchers see you as a time waster at this point, on top of the rest of the quirks you walked into the Foundation with. I want you to rise through the ranks, reach a better position other than working with low-key anomalies. Originally that was because I had the same expectations for you as I have for other new recruits. But on top of that, now I want us to continue working together. We both have something the other lacks; don't you want that?
-Rodgers
To: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
From: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Rodgers,
We both know I wouldn't stand a chance in a higher position than I'm at now. Or do you? If you don't, here it is: I am not a scientist. I've studied science, I've observed science, I've even practiced a bit of science; but I don't have the mindset of a scientist. I'm surprised the puppet masters here even spotted me on their radar.
I haven't been testing for a conclusion. Partly, I just find enjoyment listening to the D-class personnel. From what they've seen, what they've felt, they act as though nothing can be trusted anymore. Even after they transformed, they were surprisingly underwhelmed. It's almost natural to them. It's natural to me, too, but for a different reason. We shouldn't have a mere few thousand of anomalies here; we should have millions. The anomalous can be found everywhere; under the sidewalk, up the chimney, on the pillars of a train station. Someone simply needs to take interest.
That's what I was hoping for when I came here. But the most interesting thing I've found was a typewriter that doesn't type. Other than that, it's paperwork. People handing off their stinking paperwork. I've barely discovered the anomalous, only read about what everyone else has done.
So maybe (and by now it's a big maybe), if I keep working with the typewriter, something will come up. An anomaly that the Foundation hasn't seen. A transformation that will knock the rest of them off their feet. I slowly realized that to do that, I'd need to figure out how it works. I'd type something up myself if it would give me that missing piece.
For a while, I thought you could help me figure that out.
Test 5
Subject
D-123457
Date
June 12, 2019
Transformation
27 of the subject's bones have begun rotating around their central axis at a constant rate of 25 rpm. Connected tissue remains loosely in place despite this. Subject describes the sensation as "extremely irritating."
Written content
Circle circle line line spiders crawling up your spine cat scratch dog bite cool breeze tight squeeze
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To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Gerry, you don't need my help! You don't need to figure it out!
You weren't ever going to find instant success here. No decent person does. Not here, not anywhere. You think the typewriter would give you recognition? The people here have seen things that would blow that out of the water! You think the people here have everything figured out? Barely!
Listen to me: The reason you were picked up was not scientific excellence. That wasn't even why I wanted to work with you. What you have is flexibility. You've admitted it yourself; the anomalous is natural to you. You see it where I don't, or else the typewriter could have fallen God knows where. We're two halves, Gerry. If only either of us had realized that.
I'll say it again: I want to work with you, Gerry. But do what you will. Just please, let me know what that is.
To: ten.pics|iregs_rd#ten.pics|iregs_rd
From: ten.pics|sregdorf_rd#ten.pics|sregdorf_rd
Subject: SCP-5291
Gerry? Gerry please respond.
Test 5
Subject
Dr. Samuel Geri
Date
June 14, 2019
Transformation
Subject has lost the ability to verbally communicate. If subject attempts to speak, smoke manifests within their vocal cords and exits out of their mouth. Efficient alternatives for communication are being considered.
Written content
I can't tell you what I'll do, Fred. I don't know how to describe it.