After introducing Robin to his small army of Foundation soldiers, Havoc began preparing for what was coming next. Robin stood nearby, watching the soldiers organize their equipment. At the same time, Havoc checked his rifle, pistol, and the supplies he planned to bring.
Ten soldiers would certainly make things easier, but Havoc knew numbers alone wouldn't guarantee their safety. Somewhere on Ohara, that fucking piñata was still wandering around, and there was no telling when it might find another child.
Two kids. Two innocent fucking kids.
Havoc clenched his fists as he remembered what Robin had told him. Boro had been brutally murdered right in front of her, while Milo had apparently suffered an even worse fate, becoming another copy of that monstrous thing. And Havoc had been the one forced to put him down.
I swear to God, you son of a bitch. You're going to pay for what you've done.
He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. As much as he wanted to find SCP-956 and blow it to pieces, one major problem remained.
He needed to capture it alive.
The System had rewarded him for successfully containing SCP-131, but he had no idea whether killing an anomaly would count toward his progress. Worse, he didn't know what happened when an SCP died in this world.
What if killing them doesn't actually get rid of them? What if they respawn somewhere else?
The thought made his stomach turn. Countless islands dotted the One Piece world. If SCP-956 could reappear somewhere else after being destroyed, Havoc might end up condemning another group of innocent children to the same horrifying fate.
Fuck that. I'm not taking that chance.
He adjusted the A.R.E.S. Band on his wrist and began reviewing his equipment when a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts.
[Director, I must inform you that your successful containment of SCP-3153 has generated additional rewards. I tried to notify you earlier, but you didn't let me finish.]
Havoc stopped what he was doing and sighed.
"Yeah, I already know that, dude."
[Then may I proceed with the reward notification?]
"Okay, look. I was trying to help a kid who just got traumatized from watching another child get butchered in a way nobody should ever have to see. And let's not forget the other kid I had to put down myself."
His voice grew quieter as he glanced toward Robin, who was standing beside one of the soldiers, examining the unfamiliar equipment with curiosity.
"So yeah, I wasn't exactly in the mood to hear about rewards earlier. I had more important things to worry about. Besides, we're wasting time. That fucking thing is still out there, and I don't know how long we've got before it finds another victim."
[Understood, Director. Shall I provide a summary of your containment rewards?]
"Yeah, make it quick."
[Acknowledged. Successful containment confirmed: SCP-3153, designated Frank. Object Class: Safe.]
A blue holographic screen appeared above Havoc's A.R.E.S. Band.
SCP FOUNDATION SYSTEM
Containment Rewards — SCP-3153 (Frank)
Foundation Basic Operatives — 10 Unlocked
Ten additional Foundation soldiers are now available for deployment. Current personnel increased to twenty operatives.
Immortality — Adapted
Existing regeneration enhanced, increasing healing speed and physical recovery efficiency.
Medical Sector — Level 2 Unlocked
Improved medical equipment, advanced diagnostic systems, and enhanced treatment capabilities.
Armory Sector — Level 2 Unlocked
Additional Foundation firearms and containment equipment are now available, including tactical shotguns, light machine guns, and tranquilizer rifles.
Tactical Shotgun — Unlocked
Close-range firearm for Foundation security personnel.
Light Machine Gun — Unlocked
Squad-support firearm designed to provide sustained defensive fire.
Tranquilizer Rifle — Unlocked
Nonlethal firearm intended to sedate compatible biological targets.
Portable Medical Scanner — Mark I Unlocked
Handheld equipment for monitoring vital signs and assessing physical injuries.
A.R.E.S. Communication Module — Level 1 Unlocked
Enables remote communication with Foundation personnel and improved interpretation of anomalous speech.
Tactical Command Protocol — Level 1 Unlocked
Allows the System to coordinate Foundation soldiers under the Director's delegated authority.
Havoc stared at the holographic screen for several seconds, examining the rewards displayed. His eyes widened when he noticed the first reward.
"Oh shit! I completely forgot about the ten extra soldiers!"
[Director?]
"Every time I successfully contain an SCP, I get ten additional Foundation soldiers. How the hell did I forget about that?" Havoc exclaimed, rubbing his forehead. "Fuck, I was so focused on getting ready to hunt that damn piñata that it completely slipped my mind."
[Your additional ten Foundation Basic Operatives have been unlocked and are available for immediate deployment. Your total personnel has increased to twenty soldiers.]
Havoc let out a relieved sigh, then smiled.
"Well, thank God you stopped me before I went charging straight into another dangerous situation. Seriously, System, good thinking."
[You are welcome, Director.]
"Twenty soldiers. That's twice the manpower we had before. At least now we've got more people to help search for that bastard and protect the civilians."
He glanced toward Robin before looking back at the screen.
"Let's just pray to God we're not running out of time."
[Understood, Director.]
His eyes moved down the list until he noticed the Armory upgrade and the weapons it had unlocked.
"Wait a fucking minute. Shotguns?"
[Affirmative, Director. Your Armory Sector has reached Level 2, granting access to tactical shotguns, light machine guns, and tranquilizer rifles.]
For the first time since preparing for the operation, Havoc actually smiled.
"Holy shit. Now that's what I'm talking about!"
[Director?]
"Come on, System! Are you telling me my soldiers can finally carry something with a little more stopping power? Especially against that fucking piñata?"
[Tactical shotguns provide increased close-range firepower. However, their effectiveness against specific anomalies may vary.]
"Yeah, yeah, I know. Nothing's guaranteed." Havoc grinned as he looked over the weapon descriptions again. "Still, at least I got myself a new toy."
He chuckled before shaking his head.
"More importantly, my soldiers have better weapons now. That's going to make a hell of a difference if things get ugly."
[Please remember, Director, that your primary objective remains the successful containment of SCP-956. Excessive damage to the anomaly may compromise containment.]
"Relax. I haven't forgotten. We're catching that bastard alive if we can help it."
His attention shifted toward the next reward on the screen.
"Wait a minute. Immortality — Adapted? What's that supposed to mean? Did I unlock another mutation?"
[Negative, Director. Your existing immortality mutation has undergone biological adaptation through the successful containment of SCP-3153.]
Havoc raised an eyebrow.
"So what exactly changed?"
[SCP-3153 possesses extraordinary regenerative capabilities. Your mutation has incorporated a limited enhancement based on those biological characteristics. As a result, your body's healing speed has increased, allowing you to recover from physical injuries considerably faster than before.]
"So basically, if I get shot, stabbed, or break a bone, I'll heal faster?"
[Correct. However, recovery time will depend on the severity of the injury. Your regeneration will also require sufficient energy and nutrients. Furthermore, the mutation does not eliminate pain, and destruction of your body remains fatal.]
Havoc looked down at his hands, flexing his fingers as he considered the possibilities.
"Huh. So I'm still not invincible. I just recover a hell of a lot faster."
[That is correct, Director.]
"Well, I'll take it. Especially considering the kind of monsters we're dealing with."
He glanced toward Robin again, then returned his attention to the remaining rewards.
"Alright, System. Now tell me about the other upgrades. Starting with the Medical Sector. What exactly did we get?"
[Certainly, Director. Your Medical Sector has been upgraded to Level 2. This upgrade improves the speed and efficiency of medical examinations, diagnoses, and treatment procedures for Foundation personnel and civilians.]
Havoc crossed his arms and listened carefully.
"Okay, but how much of an improvement are we talking about?"
[Your existing medical scanners can now process diagnostic information more rapidly and accurately, allowing medical personnel to identify internal injuries, infections, and certain biological abnormalities in less time. Treatment procedures have also become more efficient, reducing the time required to stabilize injured patients.]
"So basically, if one of my soldiers gets badly injured, we've got a better chance of keeping him alive?"
[Correct, Director. However, the Medical Sector cannot guarantee survival from every injury. Certain anomalous effects may also exceed its current treatment capabilities.]
"Fair enough. What about the portable scanner?"
[The Portable Medical Scanner, Mark I, allows you to examine a patient's vital signs, identify common injuries, and detect certain biological abnormalities without transporting them directly to the Medical Sector. It may prove particularly useful during rescue operations.]
Havoc nodded thoughtfully.
"That's actually pretty useful. Especially if we end up finding people who are hurt, I'd rather know what we're dealing with before moving someone and accidentally making things worse."
[An appropriate precaution, Director.]
"Alright, what else?"
[Your A.R.E.S. Band has received a Communication Module upgrade. This allows you to establish direct communication with Foundation personnel through their helmet communication systems. You may receive status reports, monitor personnel conditions, and transmit instructions to multiple squads simultaneously.]
Havoc glanced down at the device strapped to his wrist.
"So you're telling me I can finally talk to my soldiers without having to stand right next to them?"
[Affirmative. The module also improves my ability to interpret unusual speech patterns produced by intelligent anomalies, such as SCP-3153.]
"Oh, that'll definitely help with Frank. Sometimes I can understand what he's saying, but other times it sounds like he's trying to talk with a mouthful of rocks."
[The communication system will attempt to interpret such speech more accurately. However, complete translation cannot be guaranteed.]
"Still better than nothing."
Havoc continued examining the holographic screen until he reached the final reward.
"Okay, last one. Tactical Command Protocol. What's that supposed to do?"
For a brief moment, the System remained silent before responding in an almost enthusiastic tone.
[Ah, yes, Director. This particular upgrade is one I believe you will find especially beneficial.]
Havoc raised an eyebrow.
"Really? You sound pretty excited about this one."
[I would describe it as considerable interest, Director. Tactical Command Protocol, Level 1, allows me to serve as your Acting Operations Commander during Foundation missions.]
Havoc blinked.
"Wait. Acting Operations Commander? You mean like a second-in-command?"
[Essentially, yes. While you remain the Foundation Director and retain ultimate authority, I can help command personnel, coordinate squad movements, organize defensive positions, and manage evacuation operations.]
"Hold on. So you're saying you can actually give orders to my soldiers?"
[With your authorization, yes. Through the A.R.E.S. Communication Module, I can communicate directly with Foundation personnel and coordinate their actions according to your instructions.]
Havoc rubbed his chin.
"Okay, let's say I'm busy fighting an SCP, or helping civilians escape, and something happens to one of my squads. What would you do?"
[I would assess the available information, determine an appropriate response, and issue instructions to the affected personnel. Depending on the circumstances, I may order them to reposition, provide assistance, establish defensive positions, or withdraw from danger.]
"And what if I can't give you orders? Like, let's say I get knocked unconscious, or I freeze up because something completely unexpected happens?"
[If you are incapacitated or temporarily unable to issue commands, I can assume operational control under your previously authorized emergency protocols. My primary responsibilities would include preserving Foundation personnel, protecting civilians, and maintaining mission coordination until you recover.]
Havoc stared at the screen for a moment, then let out a relieved sigh.
"Well, thank fucking God for that."
[Director?]
"Seriously, System. Do you have any idea how much pressure that takes off my shoulders?"
[I am aware that your military command experience remains limited.]
"Limited? Dude, that's putting it mildly!" Havoc exclaimed. "I know some basics about firearms, formations, and giving orders, but that doesn't mean I'm qualified to command an entire military operation!"
He shook his head.
"And let's not forget where we are. This is the fucking One Piece world! We're talking about people who can turn into elements, bend the laws of physics, destroy buildings with their bare hands, and do all kinds of crazy shit that shouldn't even be possible!"
[Your concerns are reasonable, Director. However, I must clarify that my current tactical capabilities are also limited. I cannot guarantee successful outcomes against unknown Devil Fruit abilities, overwhelming enemy forces, or unpredictable anomalous threats.]
"Yeah, I figured. I'm not expecting you to win every battle for me magically."
Havoc looked toward the soldiers preparing their equipment.
"But at least if things get too complicated, or I panic and don't know what the hell to do, I've got someone who can help keep everyone organized."
[That is the intended purpose of Tactical Command Protocol, Director.]
"Good. Then I'm officially authorizing you to act as my second-in-command during emergencies. If I'm unable to give orders, I want you to take control and do whatever you reasonably can to keep our people alive. Understood?"
[Authorization confirmed. Tactical Command Protocol activated. Emergency operational authority granted under the Director's standing instructions.]
"Perfect. Just remember, protecting civilians comes first. And don't send my soldiers into a situation where they're just going to get themselves killed."
[Acknowledged, Director. Civilian protection, personnel preservation, and mission coordination will remain operational priorities.]
Havoc nodded in satisfaction before dismissing the holographic screen.
"Alright. I think that's everything."
With the reward explanations finally finished, Havoc turned his attention toward the soldiers assembled throughout the barracks.
The additional ten operatives had joined the original group, bringing his total force to twenty. Some carried standard Foundation rifles, while others had been equipped with the newly unlocked tactical shotguns. A few soldiers were assigned light machine guns for squad support, while tranquilizer rifles were available for situations requiring nonlethal containment.
Havoc examined their equipment, feeling considerably more confident than he had earlier.
Twenty soldiers, better weapons, improved medical facilities, and a System that can help command them. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Of course, he knew better than to assume more firepower meant guaranteed success. The original SCP-956 was still out there, and its ability to immobilize children made it particularly dangerous.
But at least they weren't going into this completely unprepared.
[Director, all twenty Foundation Basic Operatives are available for deployment. Equipment checks are complete.]
"Good. We're heading out."
[Understood. Please remember that my anomalous detection capabilities require you to get close enough to the target. I cannot reliably identify SCP-956's current location from this facility.]
"Yeah, I know. That's the problem."
Havoc frowned as he considered their situation. Ohara was a large island, and searching every part of it would take far too long. He couldn't simply rely on the System to locate the anomaly from a distance. They would need to approach the areas where SCP-956 had last been encountered and hope the scanner could detect something.
But first, he needed to make sure the village was still safe.
Kenta, the surviving boy, had managed to escape the original attack. However, Havoc had no idea where the boy had gone afterward or whether SCP-956 might have followed him toward the village.
Please tell me that kid didn't accidentally lead that fucking thing back to everyone else.
The possibility alone made Havoc anxious. If the anomaly had already reached the village, more casualties could have happened before they even arrived.
That was where Robin came in.
She was the only person among them who actually knew the village, the surrounding paths, and the general area where the horrible incident had taken place.
However, Havoc had another concern.
He briefly considered asking Robin to remain inside the Foundation's pocket dimension, where she could stay somewhere safe while he and the soldiers handled the operation. But even that presented a problem.
Would she actually be safe here?
He knew the Foundation existed within a separate pocket dimension, but he had no guarantee that its protection would completely shield Robin from SCP-956's anomalous effects. He didn't even know whether the creature's abilities could somehow interact with the doorway connecting the two worlds.
And if he wanted to detect SCP-956, he would eventually have to get close enough for the System to identify its presence.
Fuck. This whole situation is a hassle.
He didn't want Robin anywhere near the anomaly, but leaving her behind without knowing whether she would truly be protected wasn't a decision he felt comfortable making either.
For now, his priority was reaching the village and determining whether its inhabitants were still safe.
Havoc turned to the young girl, who had stood nearby throughout the preparations.
Despite everything she'd experienced, Robin had remained remarkably patient. But he could still see the uneasiness in her expression, especially whenever the piñata came up.
He approached her and knelt slightly so they could speak face-to-face.
"Okay, Robin. You remember the drill, right?"
Robin looked up at him.
"The drill?"
"Yeah. What we talked about earlier. You're going to help guide us toward the village. But I need you to remember something very important."
Robin nodded slowly.
"Okay..."
Havoc's expression became serious.
"You know what that thing is capable of. You've seen what it does to children, and I don't want you anywhere near it. If we find it, you stay behind the soldiers and me. No trying to fight it, no getting close to it, and absolutely no touching any candy you find lying around. Understand?"
At the mention of the candy, Robin visibly stiffened.
Her hands tightened against her clothes as the memories of what happened to Boro and Milo returned. For a moment, she couldn't bring herself to answer.
Havoc noticed immediately.
"Robin?"
The little girl swallowed nervously.
"I... I still remember..."
Her voice began trembling.
"I still remember the screams..."
Suddenly, her breathing quickened. Her hands started shaking as the horrible memories flooded back. She could still picture what happened to Boro, hear his terrified screams, and remember the helplessness she felt while watching that monstrous piñata attack him.
"N-No... I..."
Robin began breathing faster, struggling to catch her breath as tears formed in her eyes.
Havoc immediately knelt in front of her.
"Whoa, Robin! Hey, hey, look at me. You're okay. You're safe right now."
He gently placed his hands on her shoulders.
"Listen to me, Robin. Take a deep breath, okay? Nice and slow. Breathe in... and breathe out."
Robin tried to follow his instructions, but her breathing stayed uneven.
"That's it. Don't rush yourself. Just focus on breathing. I'm right here."
Havoc demonstrated, slowly inhaling and exhaling so she could follow his example.
After several moments, Robin's breathing gradually settled. Her hands still trembled, but she could finally look at him.
"Th-Thank you..."
Havoc gave her a reassuring smile.
"Listen, Robin. I know it's scary. You have every right to be scared after everything you've been through."
He waited until she was comfortable enough to continue listening.
"Honestly? I'm scared too," Havoc admitted. "I don't know what we're going to find out there, and I can't promise everything will go perfectly. But that's why we're going together, and why I've got these soldiers helping us."
He gestured toward the assembled Foundation personnel.
"Right now, we're not going after that thing immediately. First, we'll check on your village and make sure everyone's still alive and safe. After that, we'll figure out our next move."
Robin hesitated.
"The village..."
"Yeah. I'm worried that the boy who escaped might've accidentally led that thing back there. I hope I'm wrong, but we need to make sure."
Robin looked down at her hands.
"Even if... even if the people there don't like me?"
Havoc watched her carefully.
Robin knew how the villagers treated her. The other children had bullied her, and many adults had treated her like some monster because of her Devil Fruit powers.
But despite everything they'd done to her, she still cared about what might happen to them.
"I don't want anyone else to get hurt," Robin whispered. "Even if they were mean to me... I don't want their children to end up like Boro and Milo."
Havoc gave her a gentle smile.
"Then that tells me something important about you, Robin. Just because people treated you badly doesn't mean you want them to suffer. And you know what? That's a good thing."
Robin looked at him quietly.
"But remember, you don't have to prove anything to those people. You're helping because you don't want anyone else getting hurt. That's enough."
She slowly nodded.
"Okay."
"And one more thing. If you see something dangerous, you tell me immediately. You can use those eyes and ears of yours to help us scout, but don't take unnecessary risks. Got it?"
"Got it," Robin answered, managing a small smile.
"Good girl."
Havoc stood up and turned toward his soldiers.
"Alright, everyone! Listen up!"
The Foundation operatives immediately directed their attention toward him.
Beneath their helmets, their faces were smooth and expressionless, like mannequins rather than ordinary human beings. They never spoke, but their movements and obedience made it clear that they understood their Director's commands.
"We're moving out to investigate the nearby village. Our priority is making sure the civilians are safe. We're also looking for any signs of SCP-956, but nobody engages unless necessary. Remember, we're trying to contain that bastard, not destroy it."
The soldiers acknowledged their orders with silent nods.
Havoc took one last look around the barracks, making sure everyone was prepared.
"Okay! Everyone set to go?"
The soldiers straightened their posture and raised their hands in a synchronized, silent salute.
Havoc nodded in satisfaction.
"Okay, good."
He glanced down at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"Alright, System. Open the door."
[Command acknowledged, Director.]
The dense jungle of Ohara stretched before Havoc and his small army as they made their way toward the village. Twenty Foundation Basic Operatives followed in organized formation, their weapons ready as they carefully navigated the uneven terrain.
Nico Robin led the group through the forest, while Havoc stayed close beside her.
"Okay, Robin. Which way now?"
Robin glanced around, recognizing several familiar trees and pathways.
"That way," she answered, pointing toward a narrow trail between the trees. "If we follow this path, we should reach the village."
"Got it. Everyone, keep moving!"
The soldiers followed his orders silently, maintaining formation as they moved through the jungle.
Although Havoc wanted to move carefully, he couldn't ignore the urgency of their situation. Somewhere on this island, SCP-956 was still wandering around, and every minute they wasted could mean another innocent child losing their life.
"Alright, everyone! Pick up the pace! We don't have time to waste!"
The soldiers immediately quickened their pace, forcing Havoc to hurry to keep up.
Fuck, these guys have better stamina than I do.
Unlike his Foundation soldiers, Havoc wasn't exactly accustomed to marching through a jungle while carrying military equipment. Even with his enhanced regeneration, he could still become exhausted.
But he wasn't about to let that stop him.
Come on, Havoc. Keep moving. Those people are counting on you.
He glanced toward Robin, who continued leading them through the forest.
The little girl knew Ohara surprisingly well. Having spent much of her childhood wandering around the island, she had memorized many of its pathways, hidden trails, and landmarks.
For Robin, exploring the island had often been her only escape from the harsh treatment she received from the villagers and her own relatives. Whenever things became unbearable, she would disappear into the forest, seeking somewhere quiet where nobody would bother her.
Now, those same experiences were helping her guide Havoc and his soldiers toward the people who had treated her so poorly.
Thank God she knows this place, Havoc thought. Without her, we'd probably be wandering around this damn jungle for hours.
He looked ahead, hoping they would reach the village before anything terrible happened.
Please, God. Don't let us be too late.
Suddenly, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts.
[Director, I am detecting anomalous activity approximately six hundred meters from your current position.]
Havoc immediately became alert.
"Wait, seriously?"
[Affirmative. The detected anomalous signature matches SCP-956.]
"Okay, good. At least we finally found that bastard."
He glanced toward the soldiers.
"Everyone, stay alert. We might be getting close."
However, before he could issue another order, the System spoke again.
[Director, additional anomalous signatures have been detected.]
Havoc stopped walking.
"...What?"
[Multiple anomalous signatures matching SCP-956 are present within the surrounding area.]
His stomach dropped.
"No..."
He clenched his fists.
"How many?"
[Scanning... Seven anomalous signatures detected in total. One signature matches the original SCP-956. The remaining six appear to possess similar anomalous characteristics.]
Havoc gritted his teeth.
"Fuck!"
Several soldiers immediately stopped, awaiting further instructions.
Six more copies? You've gotta be fucking kidding me!
He remembered what happened to Milo. The boy had apparently consumed the candy produced by SCP-956, transforming into another copy of the monstrous piñata.
If six additional signatures were now present, the implications were horrifying.
Six more kids...
Havoc felt his stomach twist.
God damn it. We're too late.
"Wait, Havoc?"
Robin had stopped a few steps ahead of him.
"We're almost there," she explained, pointing through the trees. "The village is just a little farther that way."
But before she could continue walking, Havoc gently placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Robin, wait."
She looked up at him.
"What's wrong?"
Havoc hesitated.
How the hell was he supposed to explain this to an eight-year-old girl who had already witnessed two children suffer such horrible fates?
"Robin... my equipment just detected something."
"Detected something?"
"Yeah. See this thing on my wrist?"
Havoc raised his arm and showed her the A.R.E.S. Band strapped to it.
"This is a special piece of equipment I use. It's called the A.R.E.S. Band. It helps me communicate with my soldiers, receive information, and detect anomalies when I get close enough to them."
Robin examined the unfamiliar device with curiosity.
"Can it find those things?"
"Yeah. Think of it like a scanner. When an anomaly gets within its detection range, it can pick up the strange signals those creatures give off and warn me that something dangerous might be nearby."
He glanced down at the device.
"The problem is that it can't search the entire island. I have to get close enough before it can detect anything. And right now, it's picking up something about six hundred meters away."
Robin swallowed nervously.
"Is it... that piñata?"
Havoc lowered himself slightly to meet her eyes.
"Yeah. Remember that thing we talked about? The piñata?"
Robin immediately stiffened.
Havoc took a deep breath.
"It looks like we're getting close to it."
Robin swallowed nervously.
"Th-Then... we found it?"
"Yeah. But there's something else."
He hesitated before continuing.
"Robin... I'm sorry. I think we're too late."
Her eyes widened.
"What...?"
"My equipment detected more than one of those things. There are several of them nearby."
Robin shook her head.
"No..."
"Robin—"
"No! No, no, no!"
Her breathing quickened as she remembered what happened to Milo.
"You mean...?"
Havoc lowered his gaze.
"I don't know exactly what happened yet. But if those things are copies of the original, then..."
He couldn't bring himself to finish the sentence.
Robin looked toward the village.
"But... what about everyone else? What about Professor Clover? And the other scholars?"
She looked back at him desperately.
"Professor Clover and the others at the Tree of Knowledge... are they okay?"
Havoc frowned as he recognized the name immediately.
Professor Clover... the scholars of Ohara.
He already knew who Robin meant. Professor Clover was the archaeologist who had practically become one of the few people Robin could consider family.
Of course I know who they are. I've seen their story before. But she doesn't know that, and I sure as hell can't explain how I know them.
He remembered their earlier conversation back inside the Foundation's pocket dimension. Robin had shared a little about her life, including Professor Clover and the people she cared about. It wasn't much, but it had helped him understand just how important they were to her.
At least she told me a little about Clover earlier. But the rest of the scholars? I know more about them than she realizes, and that's definitely not something I can explain.
He looked at Robin, who was anxiously waiting for an answer.
She really cares about them, doesn't she?
Despite everything she'd been through, Robin was still worried about the scholars and the people living near the Tree of Knowledge. Havoc couldn't blame her. From what he knew about her life, those scholars were among the few people who had ever treated her with kindness and encouraged her love of learning.
Of course she's worried. Those people are practically her family. That tree and the scholars mean everything to her.
And even though the rest of the village hadn't exactly treated her kindly, Robin clearly didn't want anyone else to suffer.
Damn it. I can't let her lose them too.
"I don't know, Robin. I haven't detected anything that tells me what's happened to them."
"But what if that thing got them too?"
"Listen, Robin. Remember what I told you? That thing specifically targets children under twelve. As far as I know, adults aren't affected by its ability the same way."
Robin looked slightly relieved, but Havoc wasn't finished.
"However, I can't guarantee they're completely safe either."
"Why not?"
Havoc hesitated.
Because I don't even know if these anomalies are still following their original files.
His thoughts immediately returned to Frank, the enormous centipede he had successfully contained earlier.
Frank was different. His behavior, his intelligence, even the way he communicated... he wasn't exactly like the information I had about him.
And then he remembered something else.
And how the hell am I supposed to explain that to Robin? The same giant centipede that scared the living shit out of her turned out to be friendly? Yeah, that's definitely not a conversation we need right now.
He shook his head slightly.
Focus, Havoc. This isn't the time.
He didn't want to give Robin false hope, but he certainly didn't want to convince her Professor Clover and the other scholars were already dead when he had no proof.
"Well, you see, Robin, my organization has spent a long time studying creatures like that piñata. We've researched their abilities, their behavior, and the rules they seem to follow."
Robin listened carefully.
"So... you know everything about them?"
"Not exactly. We know quite a bit about some of them, but that doesn't mean we know everything."
He glanced toward his A.R.E.S. Band.
"The thing is, some of these creatures have been acting differently from what my organization's research says they should. Their behavior, their abilities, even the way they interact with people aren't always the same as what we've documented."
Robin tilted her head.
"Different?"
"Yeah. It's like studying an animal for years and learning how it behaves, only to discover that it's suddenly doing things you've never seen before."
He shook his head.
"I don't know whether it's something about this island, the environment, or something else that's changed them. And until we understand what's happening, I can't guarantee that every anomaly will follow the same rules we've studied."
[Director, insufficient information is currently available to determine whether SCP-956 has undergone similar behavioral or biological changes.]
"Exactly. And that's what worries me."
He looked back at Robin.
"I know what that fucking piñata is supposed to do. But I don't know whether the version we're dealing with here follows every single rule from its original file."
Robin remained silent.
"And I'm not taking the chance of finding out the hard way. Especially not with you."
Havoc stood up and examined the surrounding jungle.
Seven of those things. Jesus Christ.
He couldn't simply rush into the village with Robin beside him. If the anomaly's immobilization ability activated while she was nearby, he might not be able to save her in time.
And after everything she'd already suffered, he refused to put her through that again.
"Alright, Robin. Here's what we're going to do."
She looked up at him.
"You're going to stay here for now."
"What?"
"I'm going to take the others and check out the village. I need to find out what's happening and whether any survivors need help."
"But I can help!"
"I know you can. And you already have."
He gave her a reassuring smile.
"Seriously, Robin. Without you, we wouldn't have gotten this far. But right now, I need you somewhere safe while we investigate."
Robin hesitated.
"Are you... going to leave me here alone?"
"No. Absolutely not."
Havoc knelt in front of her once more.
"But before I go, Robin, I need you to promise me something."
Robin looked at him.
"What is it?"
"Promise me you'll stay right here until I come back or tell you it's safe to move. No sneaking off, no following us, and no trying to get closer to those things. Understand?"
Robin lowered her gaze.
"But..."
"Robin, please. I'm serious."
His expression became more concerned.
"You remember what happened when you got close to that piñata, right? That thing doesn't need to touch you to hurt you. All it takes is getting within a few meters of it, and you could end up completely helpless."
Robin's hands tightened against her clothes.
Havoc noticed her reaction and softened his voice.
"And I don't think I need to remind you what happens after that."
Robin remained silent for several seconds.
"That's why I need you to stay here. I don't care how brave you are or how badly you want to help. I'm not risking your life to find out whether that thing's abilities have changed."
He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"Please, Robin. Promise me."
Robin slowly nodded.
"...I promise."
Havoc let out a relieved sigh.
"Thank you."
He stood up and turned toward his soldiers.
"Alright, you five! Over here!"
Five Foundation Basic Operatives immediately stepped forward from the formation.
Their smooth, mannequin-like faces remained expressionless beneath their helmets as they silently awaited his instructions.
Havoc pointed toward Robin.
"You five are staying here with her. Your job is to protect Nico Robin and make sure nothing happens to her. Understood?"
The soldiers straightened their posture and raised their hands in a silent salute.
"Good."
He glanced down at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"System, activate the communication module. I want a direct connection with these five soldiers."
[Acknowledged, Director. Communication link established.]
Havoc looked toward the five operatives.
"Alright, listen carefully. I'm ordering you to keep Nico Robin safe and secure. Do not let her wander off, and don't let her attempt anything dangerous. If you detect any threats, prioritize getting her away from danger."
The soldiers remained silent, their attention fixed on him.
"And most importantly, you stay here until I give the all-clear. Nobody moves toward the village unless I specifically authorize it. Understood?"
The five soldiers raised their hands in another synchronized salute.
[Orders received and distributed, Director. Protective detail assigned to Nico Robin. All five operatives will remain under my tactical supervision.]
Havoc nodded.
"Good. Keep me updated if anything happens."
[Affirmative, Director.]
He turned back toward Robin.
"Okay, Robin. One last thing. I need you to point me in the direction of the village."
Robin slowly raised her hand and pointed toward a pathway leading deeper into the forest.
"It's that way. Just keep following the path until you see the houses. The Tree of Knowledge is farther beyond them."
Havoc followed her finger with his eyes.
"Alright. Got it."
He looked down at her again.
"Listen, Robin. I know you're worried about Professor Clover and the others. But I'm going to do everything I can to find out what's happening."
Robin looked at the soldiers beside her, then turned back to Havoc.
"Please... be careful."
Havoc gave her a small smile.
"Don't worry. I'm not planning on getting myself killed today."
He stood up and adjusted his rifle.
"Alright, System. You've got command support. Keep monitoring those anomalous signatures and notify me immediately if any of them start moving toward Robin's position."
[Understood, Director. Continuous anomalous monitoring initiated. I will prioritize warnings concerning the protective detail.]
"Good."
Havoc turned toward the remaining fifteen Foundation soldiers.
"Alright, everyone. We're heading toward the village. Weapons ready, eyes open, and remember what I said earlier. We're here to protect civilians and contain those bastards."
The soldiers silently adjusted their weapons and prepared to move.
Havoc took one final glance toward Robin.
Please, God. Let there still be people we can save.
He tightened his grip on his rifle.
"Alright. Move out."
With that command, Havoc and fifteen Foundation operatives continued deeper into the jungle, leaving Robin under the protection of the remaining five soldiers.
Somewhere ahead, seven anomalous signatures were waiting.
And Havoc could only pray that they hadn't already claimed more innocent lives.
Havoc kept moving through the jungle, with fifteen Foundation Basic Operatives following close behind. The remaining five soldiers had stayed behind to protect Nico Robin, just as he had ordered.
Two of those soldiers carried tactical shotguns, while the other three carried standard Foundation rifles. It was a reasonable defensive arrangement, especially with the System monitoring their position, but Havoc still couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in his stomach.
Five soldiers should be enough to protect one little girl, right?
He glanced down at his A.R.E.S. Band, wondering whether Robin was actually keeping her promise.
[Do not worry, Director. I assure you that I will do everything within my current capabilities to protect Nico Robin.]
Havoc sighed.
"Yeah, I know you can, System. I hope she actually stays where I told her."
[The five operatives assigned to her protection remain at their designated position. No unusual activity has been reported.]
"Good. That's one less thing to worry about."
He shook his head, remembering what he knew about Robin.
Despite everything she'd experienced throughout her childhood, she was still a kindhearted little girl who genuinely cared about other people. Even when the villagers treated her like a monster, she hadn't allowed their cruelty to destroy her compassion.
And knowing Robin, Havoc wouldn't be surprised if she secretly tried to help someone without telling him.
That's what worries me about you, Robin. You've got a good heart, but you're still a kid.
He remembered her Devil Fruit abilities, particularly how she could sprout additional eyes and ears to observe places without physically entering them.
Please don't get any stupid ideas about using those powers to scout ahead. I know you're trying to help, but I don't need you accidentally getting caught by that fucking thing.
Havoc took a deep breath and forced himself to concentrate.
Focus, Havoc. You've got fifteen soldiers with you, and there's an entire village that might need help.
As they continued along the forest path, the enormous Tree of Knowledge finally came into view above the surrounding jungle.
Havoc stopped for a moment, staring at the massive structure towering over the island.
"Holy shit..."
Even though he already knew about the Tree of Knowledge from One Piece, seeing it with his own eyes was something entirely different.
The enormous tree stretched high above the surrounding vegetation, its branches spreading across the sky.
"I still can't believe it took me this fucking long to find a big-ass tree like that."
He looked around at the dense vegetation surrounding them.
"Seriously, how the hell did I miss something that practically towers over the entire island?"
The soldiers remained silent, their expressionless, mannequin-like faces offering absolutely no reaction to his complaint.
Havoc stared at them for a moment.
"...Right. Forgot who I was talking to."
He shook his head.
"Anyway, enough sightseeing. We've got work to do."
The soldiers immediately resumed their march, following Havoc as he increased his pace toward the village.
However, as they emerged from the jungle and approached the first buildings, Havoc's relief quickly disappeared.
Something was terribly wrong.
Several houses had sustained visible damage. Wooden walls were cracked, with sections that looked as if something powerful had struck them. Some doors hung crooked from their hinges, and broken pieces of furniture lay scattered across the dirt roads.
A vegetable cart had been overturned near one of the houses, spilling carrots, cabbages, and other produce across the ground. Several baskets had been crushed, their contents scattered and trampled.
Havoc slowed his pace.
"Jesus Christ. This place looks like somebody went on a rampage."
He approached one of the damaged buildings and examined the cracks in its wooden walls.
The damage looked strange. It wasn't the kind of destruction he would expect from an ordinary fight or a storm.
Several sections looked like they'd been struck repeatedly by something relatively small but surprisingly strong.
Among the footprints scattered across the dirt, Havoc noticed several smaller ones resembling those of a little pony.
He crouched down to examine them.
Shit. These must belong to that fucking piñata and its clones.
Havoc stood up, tightening his grip on his shotgun.
"We're close."
He glanced toward the fifteen soldiers standing behind him.
"Alright, everyone. Spread out and search the nearby buildings. Look for survivors, signs of movement, and anything that might tell us what happened here. Stay alert, and don't engage anything suspicious without my orders."
The soldiers immediately moved into position, dividing into smaller groups as they approached the damaged buildings.
Havoc watched them for a moment, then realized something.
Wait. How the hell are they supposed to tell me if they find something?
He rubbed his forehead.
"Right. They can't exactly talk."
He looked toward one of the soldiers, whose smooth, mannequin-like face remained completely expressionless beneath his helmet.
"No mouths, no voices, nothing. Just a bunch of silent guys following orders."
Havoc sighed.
"Sometimes I wonder why I even bother expecting a response."
He paused.
"Then again, having somebody watch my back is better than being out here alone."
[Director, please remember that I am available to assist you.]
Havoc blinked.
"Oh, right."
[Through the A.R.E.S. Communication Module, I can monitor your personnel and provide relevant information regarding their positions and observations. Furthermore, my anomalous detection capabilities remain active.]
"Shit, that completely slipped my mind."
He looked around the damaged village.
"So if one of my soldiers discovers something important, you'll pass the information along?"
[Affirmative, Director. I can relay information obtained through their equipment and monitoring systems.]
"Perfect. At least we've got that covered."
[Director, may I ask whether your concern regarding Nico Robin is affecting your concentration?]
Havoc sighed.
"Yeah... I'm still worried about her."
He glanced back toward the jungle.
"I know she's got five armed soldiers protecting her, and you're monitoring their position. But after everything she's been through today, I can't help thinking something might go wrong."
He hesitated.
"That kid deserves a chance to feel safe for once."
[Your concern is understandable, Director. However, I recommend maintaining your attention on the current operation.]
"Fair point. The sooner we deal with this mess, the sooner I can get back to her."
He adjusted his shotgun.
"Let's see if we can find anyone who's still—"
[WARNING. Anomalous signatures detected within one hundred meters of your current position.]
Havoc immediately froze.
"...What?"
[Multiple SCP-956-related signatures have been identified nearby.]
"Shit!"
He immediately raised his shotgun toward the detected activity.
The surrounding Foundation soldiers reacted at once, bringing their rifles, tactical shotguns, and light machine guns to the ready.
"Everyone, weapons up! Stay alert!"
The soldiers obeyed silently, their weapons trained on the nearby buildings and narrow streets.
Havoc glanced down at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"System, give me their distance and tell me whether we're dealing with the original or its copies."
[The nearest anomalous signature is approximately ninety meters from your position. Based on the available data, the detected entities appear to be copies rather than the original SCP-956.]
Havoc gritted his teeth.
"How many are we dealing with?"
[Three anomalous entities have been detected within the immediate area.]
"Three..."
He slowly exhaled.
Three of those fucking things are somewhere around here.
Havoc glanced toward the surrounding buildings, wondering whether any villagers were still hiding inside.
If those things are roaming around, we need to get everyone out of here before somebody else gets hurt.
But then another problem crossed his mind.
"Wait a fucking minute..."
[Director?]
"System, there's something I haven't figured out yet. How are we supposed to contain SCP-956?"
[Please clarify your inquiry, Director.]
"I mean physically capture the bastard! I've checked the Armory and our available equipment, but I haven't found anything specifically designed to hold it."
He looked toward the damaged village.
"We've got rifles, shotguns, tranquilizers, and plenty of military gear. None of that tells me how to bring a living piñata back to containment."
[According to Foundation containment records, SCP-956 was previously secured within a reinforced containment enclosure under controlled conditions. Its containment procedures emphasized preventing access by children under twelve and restricting unauthorized contact with the anomaly or its associated candy.]
Havoc raised an eyebrow.
"So the Foundation kept it inside a reinforced enclosure under strict supervision?"
[Correct, Director. The containment environment was designed to prevent unauthorized interaction with SCP-956 and reduce the risk of additional anomalous incidents.]
"Great. Peachy."
Havoc looked around at the damaged buildings.
"There's just one tiny problem with that plan. We're standing in the middle of Ohara, not some high-security Foundation facility!"
He gestured toward the village.
"Look around! This place has wooden houses, market stalls, and fucking sailing ships. Where am I supposed to find a reinforced steel cage?"
He shook his head.
"And before you suggest using whatever these people have lying around, I seriously doubt a fishing net or some rope is going to hold that motherfucker."
[Your assessment is reasonable. Improvised restraints may be insufficient to contain an anomalous entity possessing SCP-956's physical characteristics.]
"Then we're going to need something a hell of a lot stronger."
[Director, there may be an alternative containment procedure available using your current Foundation resources.]
Havoc immediately became interested.
"Now that's what I wanted to hear. What have you got?"
[Affirmative. However, successful implementation would require—]
Before the System could finish its explanation, Havoc tightened his grip on his shotgun.
His attention remained fixed on the nearby buildings, where three copies of SCP-956 had been detected.
He couldn't see them yet, but knowing they were somewhere within a hundred meters was more than enough to keep him on edge.
"Hold that thought, System."
Havoc narrowed his eyes, carefully examining the damaged street ahead.
"First, we need to make sure those three bastards don't catch us off guard."
The fifteen Foundation soldiers remained in position, silently awaiting their Director's next command.
The fifteen Foundation Basic Operatives remained in position, silently awaiting Havoc's next command. Somewhere among the damaged buildings, three copies of SCP-956 were lurking, and he had no intention of letting them claim another victim.
Three of those bastards are nearby. The question is, what the hell are they doing?
Havoc glanced toward the surrounding houses. For all he knew, families could still be hiding inside, hoping whatever attacked their village would eventually disappear.
He couldn't afford to rush in and accidentally put those people in danger.
"Alright, everyone. We're going to approach this carefully. I want a few of you to move along the sides of those buildings and scout ahead. Stay quiet, keep your weapons ready, and don't draw attention to yourselves."
Several soldiers obeyed immediately, moving cautiously between the damaged houses while the others stayed behind to provide support.
Havoc glanced down at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"System, keep monitoring those three signatures. If any of them start attacking civilians or moving toward another house, I want to know immediately."
[Understood, Director. Continuous monitoring is active. I will notify you of any significant changes in anomalous activity.]
"Good. Let's see what those bastards are up to."
The soldiers continued their cautious advance, using the damaged buildings as cover. One operative eventually reached the corner of a house and carefully looked around it.
Through the communication system, Havoc received the soldier's observations.
[Director, visual confirmation established. Three SCP-956 copies have been located.]
Havoc immediately became alert.
"What's their position?"
[All three entities are stationary near a damaged building. Their current behavior resembles that of sentries guarding a designated location.]
Havoc frowned.
"Guards? What the fuck are they guarding?"
[Unknown, Director. No civilians are visible within the immediate engagement area.]
That was good news, at least.
If the creatures were standing together without any civilians nearby, Havoc finally had an opportunity to eliminate them without risking innocent lives.
Perfect. Three targets standing in one place, and nobody around to get caught in the crossfire.
He examined the nearby houses before noticing one with a relatively intact roof overlooking the creatures' position.
"Alright, I've got an idea."
Havoc turned toward three soldiers carrying tactical shotguns.
"You three, get onto that rooftop. Keep yourselves out of sight and wait for my signal. I want all three targets hit at the same time."
The operatives silently acknowledged his orders and moved toward the building.
Havoc watched them climb onto the roof, carefully positioning themselves near the edge. Thankfully, the wooden structure was sturdy enough to support their combined weight.
Once all three soldiers were in position, they aimed their shotguns toward the unsuspecting anomalies below.
[Director, all three operatives are in position. Targets remain stationary.]
Havoc tightened his grip on his own shotgun.
"Alright. On my command."
He waited a few seconds, making sure the creatures hadn't noticed anything.
"Fire!"
BANG! BANG! BANG!
Three shotgun blasts erupted from the rooftop.
Two of the piñatas were struck directly, their bodies collapsing onto the dirt road. The third shot missed as its target suddenly moved, narrowly avoiding the blast.
"Fuck! One's still moving!"
The surviving anomaly immediately turned toward the rooftop, apparently realizing where the attack had come from.
Then something happened that Havoc hadn't expected.
The creature opened its mouth.
A small object shot out with surprising force, striking a Foundation soldier directly in the chest.
The operative stumbled backward and collapsed onto the roof.
"What the fuck?!"
Havoc stared in disbelief.
Did that thing just shoot something out of its mouth?!
The wounded soldier slid down the sloped roof before dropping to the ground below.
"Shit! Cover me!"
Havoc immediately rushed toward the fallen operative while the remaining soldiers kept their weapons trained on the anomaly.
He crouched beside the motionless soldier and examined the damage to his chest.
"Come on, don't tell me you're already dead!"
The operative was still functional, although something had penetrated part of his tactical equipment.
Havoc carefully examined the wound.
Thank God. It doesn't look too serious.
He knew his Foundation soldiers didn't experience pain the way ordinary humans did, but that certainly didn't make them invincible. They could still suffer damage, become incapacitated, or even be destroyed.
And Havoc wasn't about to lose one of his subordinates during their first major operation.
"Hang in there, buddy. You're not dying on me today."
The soldier remained silent, his smooth, mannequin-like face showing no expression.
[Director, I must remind you that these operatives are not human. They were created specifically to serve under your command and are considered expendable Foundation personnel. Their primary purpose is to—]
"I don't give a shit!"
Havoc interrupted the System without hesitation.
"Listen, System. Just because these soldiers aren't human, and just because they were created to serve under my command, doesn't mean I'm going to treat them like fucking tools!"
He glanced toward the wounded operative.
"I don't care if they don't have faces, can't talk, or were made to follow every order I give them. They're still my soldiers, and I'm responsible for them!"
Havoc gritted his teeth.
"I'm not going to throw their lives away just because they're replaceable. That's the kind of shit the Foundation used to do, treating its own personnel like they were nothing more than disposable equipment."
He looked down at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"And remember something, System. I'm different from those regular Foundation directors you were programmed to follow. I'm not them. I'm me, and nothing's going to change that!"
For a moment, the System remained silent.
[...Understood, Director. Your position regarding the treatment of Foundation personnel has been acknowledged.]
"Good. Then don't bring up that expendable bullshit again."
Havoc returned his attention to the injured soldier.
The operative was still functional, though something had penetrated his tactical equipment.
Havoc carefully removed the object lodged in his equipment.
He blinked.
"...What?"
Resting in his hand was a small piece of candy.
For several seconds, he stared at it.
"Are you fucking kidding me?"
He looked toward the surviving piñata.
"That motherfucker can shoot candy?!"
[WARNING. Previously undocumented anomalous behavior confirmed. SCP-956 copy has demonstrated the ability to launch candy-like projectiles from its mouth.]
Havoc gritted his teeth.
"Yeah, no shit! I just watched it happen!"
[Additional research data acquired. SCP-956 anomaly profile has been updated to include the newly observed projectile attack. Further investigation is required to determine whether this ability is exclusive to the copies.]
"Great. So now these fucking things have ranged attacks too?"
He looked down at the candy in his hand.
And considering what happened to Milo, there's no way in hell I'm letting anybody eat this.
Havoc carefully secured the projectile in a separate compartment of his equipment, making sure nobody would accidentally come into contact with it.
Then he turned toward the other soldiers.
"Everyone, take cover and open fire! Don't let that bastard escape!"
The operatives responded immediately, taking cover behind damaged walls, overturned carts, and nearby buildings.
The surviving piñata tried to retreat, but the soldiers quickly surrounded it.
Gunfire erupted across the street as the Foundation operatives fired controlled bursts toward the creature.
The anomaly managed to withstand several hits, stumbling as bullets struck its body. However, with multiple soldiers attacking from different directions, it had nowhere left to run.
A final volley struck the creature, sending it collapsing onto the ground.
[Hostile anomalous activity has ceased. All three SCP-956 copies have been neutralized.]
Havoc slowly exhaled.
"Thank fucking God."
He glanced toward the wounded operative.
"System, what's the condition of my soldier?"
[The operative has sustained moderate damage to his equipment and torso. His condition is stable, and he remains operational. Medical attention is recommended.]
Havoc nodded.
"Good. We'll get him patched up as soon as possible."
He helped the soldier sit upright, then turned his attention to the three fallen anomalies.
For a moment, he felt relieved that the immediate danger had passed.
But as he approached their bodies, that relief quickly disappeared.
The three creatures lay motionless among the scattered debris, their colorful piñata-like forms riddled with bullet and shotgun damage.
Havoc stared at them.
Jesus Christ...
He remembered what happened to Milo and how consuming SCP-956's candy had transformed the boy into one of these things.
If these three copies had been created the same way, then they had once been ordinary children.
Children who probably had families, friends, and entire lives ahead of them.
And now they were gone.
Havoc lowered his shotgun.
I'm sorry, kids.
He bowed his head and quietly offered a prayer in Spanish.
"Dios mío, recibe sus almas y concédeles descanso eterno. Que encuentren la paz que les fue arrebatada. Amén."
English translation: "My God, receive their souls and grant them eternal rest. May they find the peace that was taken from them. Amen."
For a few seconds, he remained silent.
Part of him wanted to cry. He wanted to mourn the children who had suffered such horrible fates, even though he had never known their names.
But he couldn't allow himself to break down here.
Not while the original SCP-956 was still somewhere on the island.
Not while people might still need his help.
Havoc slowly raised his head.
I wish I could've saved you.
He tightened his grip on his shotgun and looked toward the damaged village.
But if those three were standing guard, then whatever they were protecting might still be nearby.
He turned toward his soldiers.
"Alright, everyone. We're moving out. Stay together, keep watching those buildings, and don't let your guard down. We still have a job to finish."
The soldiers silently acknowledged his command and prepared to continue.
Havoc took one last look at the fallen creatures.
He'd promised Robin he would do everything he could to find Professor Clover and the other scholars. After everything she'd already endured, he refused to abandon that promise.
Hang on, Robin. I'm going to find your family.
With that thought, Havoc and his Foundation soldiers continued their search through the ruined village.
Havoc carefully advanced through the ruined village, his shotgun held firmly in both hands. The fifteen Foundation Basic Operatives followed close behind, moving quietly between the damaged houses.
After their encounter with the three SCP-956 copies, Havoc wasn't taking any chances. Three more copies were still somewhere on the island, along with the original anomaly, and he had no intention of drawing their attention before he was ready.
"Alright, everyone. Keep your footsteps quiet and watch your surroundings. We don't know what might be hiding around the next corner."
The soldiers obeyed silently, slowing their movements as they checked nearby buildings, alleyways, and broken windows.
Through the A.R.E.S. Communication Module, the System continued monitoring the soldiers' positions and the information gathered through their equipment.
[Director, all operatives remain connected to the tactical network. I will notify you immediately if I detect any suspicious movement or anomalous activity.]
"Good. Keep me informed."
Havoc kept walking, though every step made him more nervous. His heart beat faster than he wanted to admit, and the silence around the village didn't help.
Fuck. I hate this.
He glanced toward an abandoned market stall, half expecting another piñata to jump out from behind it suddenly.
Come on, Havoc. You've got fifteen armed soldiers watching your back. Just keep your shit together.
Trying to distract himself from his growing anxiety, he remembered something the System had mentioned earlier.
"Hey, System. About that containment plan you were trying to explain before we got interrupted..."
[Yes, Director?]
"You said we already had the resources needed to capture SCP-956. So what exactly am I supposed to do? Because I still haven't found a proper containment cage."
[Director, your Foundation currently possesses the necessary infrastructure to contain SCP-956 once the entity has been successfully transferred into the pocket dimension.]
Havoc frowned.
"Okay, but how the fuck do we get it there?"
[The recommended procedure involves deploying a temporary access doorway to the Foundation facility near the anomaly's location. Your operatives would then need to incapacitate SCP-956 and physically transport it through the doorway into a prepared containment enclosure.]
Havoc nearly stopped walking.
"...Excuse me?"
[The anomaly must be brought within the operational range of the access doorway. Once secured, Foundation personnel can transport it into containment.]
Havoc stared at his A.R.E.S. Band.
"You're telling me your brilliant fucking plan is to knock that thing out, pick it up, and carry it through a door?"
[That is a simplified description of the recommended procedure, Director.]
"That's fucking insane!"
He lowered his voice when he realized how loudly he'd spoken.
"Jesus Christ, System! We're talking about a killer piñata that can freeze children in place, turn them into candy, and apparently has copies that can shoot candy out of their fucking mouths!"
[The procedure would require the anomaly to be sufficiently incapacitated before physical contact. Foundation personnel would also need to prevent any unauthorized individuals from approaching the containment area.]
"And what if it wakes up while we're carrying it?"
[Your operatives would be instructed to maintain control of the entity and employ additional restraints if necessary.]
Havoc rubbed his forehead.
"Wonderful. So we're basically gambling on whether the bastard stays unconscious long enough."
[Based on your currently available equipment and the absence of a dedicated portable containment device, this procedure represents the most viable option.]
Havoc didn't like that answer one bit.
I swear to God, I'm going to hate this fucking plan.
He glanced toward his soldiers, imagining what could happen if the original SCP-956 suddenly regained consciousness while they were transporting it.
"System, are you sure this is going to work?"
[Calculating estimated probability of successful containment...]
Havoc waited anxiously.
[Under the proposed conditions, the estimated probability of successful containment is 68.4 percent. This estimate assumes successful incapacitation, adequate perimeter security, and uninterrupted access to the Foundation doorway. Actual results may vary due to undocumented anomalous behavior.]
Havoc closed his eyes.
"Sixty-eight point four percent..."
He let out a heavy sigh.
"That's not exactly reassuring."
[I understand your concern, Director. However, no alternative procedure currently offers a higher estimated probability of success with the resources available.]
"Yeah, well, I guess we don't have much of a choice."
He adjusted his grip on his shotgun.
"Just make sure the containment area is ready before we even think about trying that."
[Understood, Director. Preparations will be maintained until your authorization is received.]
Havoc returned his attention to the street ahead.
He was particularly interested in the direction the three copies had apparently been guarding. Their strange behavior suggested that something important might be located farther into the village.
What the hell were those things protecting? The original? More victims?
Before he could think any further, a desperate voice suddenly broke through the silence.
"HELP! SOMEBODY, PLEASE HELP!"
Havoc immediately turned toward the sound.
"What the—?!"
Another scream echoed between the damaged houses.
"PLEASE! SOMEBODY HELP US!"
Havoc's eyes widened.
Survivors!
Without another thought, he ran.
"Alright, troops! Move!"
The fifteen Foundation operatives immediately followed, sprinting through the village as Havoc rushed toward the desperate cries.
He ran as fast as his legs could carry him, practically forgetting about his earlier exhaustion.
Come on! Come on!
The cries grew louder as they approached another section of the village.
"HELP! PLEASE!"
Havoc tightened his grip on his shotgun.
"Hang on! We're coming!"
Suddenly, the System interrupted him.
[WARNING, Director. Four SCP-956-related anomalous signatures have been detected within one hundred meters of your current position.]
Havoc immediately slowed down.
"Four?!"
[Affirmative. The detected signatures include the original SCP-956 and three remaining copies.]
"Fuck!"
He quickly raised his hand, signaling his soldiers to stop.
The operatives immediately halted, awaiting further instructions.
Havoc glanced toward the surrounding buildings.
Shit. So the original really is somewhere around here.
He couldn't simply charge straight toward the screaming civilians, especially with four anomalies nearby.
"Alright, listen up! I want you to split into three groups of five. First group, take the left side of the street. Second group, move along the right. The rest of you, stay with me."
The soldiers immediately began following his instructions, moving into their assigned formations.
Havoc watched them for a moment before something occurred to him.
"Wait a second..."
He looked toward one of the soldiers.
"System, I've been meaning to ask you something."
[What is your question, Director?]
"How the hell do these guys actually hear my orders?"
He gestured toward the nearest operative.
"I mean, look at them! They don't have mouths, and as far as I can tell, they don't even have ears. Yet every time I give an order, they understand exactly what I'm saying."
[Director, Foundation Basic Operatives are artificial humanoid personnel equipped with integrated sensory and command-processing systems. Their external appearance does not reflect the full extent of their operational capabilities.]
Havoc raised an eyebrow.
"So they don't need normal ears to hear me?"
[Correct. Their internal sensory systems can detect and interpret audible instructions. Additionally, the A.R.E.S. Communication Module allows orders to be transmitted directly through the tactical network.]
Havoc looked toward the soldier standing beside him.
The operative silently turned its featureless face toward him.
"...Huh."
[Their lack of conventional facial features does not prevent them from receiving instructions, identifying threats, or coordinating with other Foundation personnel.]
Havoc stared at the soldier for another moment.
"Well, that's certainly reassuring."
His voice carried a noticeable hint of sarcasm.
"Then again, I keep forgetting this is the fucking SCP Foundation we're talking about. A place filled with weird-ass shit and even weirder ways of protecting humanity."
He shook his head.
"And now I'm stuck in fucking One Piece, dealing with killer piñatas and commanding faceless mannequin soldiers. At this point, I really shouldn't be surprised by anything anymore."
[Director, I recommend resuming the operation. The unidentified civilians may still be in danger.]
Havoc's expression immediately became serious again.
"Right. Enough talking."
He turned toward his soldiers, who had finished organizing themselves into their assigned groups.
"Stay sharp, everyone. We have people to rescue, and those four bastards are somewhere ahead."
The operatives silently prepared their weapons as Havoc raised his shotgun, focusing on the direction of the desperate cries.
Please, God. Let us reach them in time.
Havoc and his fifteen Foundation Basic Operatives continued advancing through the damaged village, following the desperate cries for help. The closer they got, the more clearly he could hear people shouting and something repeatedly striking a wooden structure.
"Come on, come on. Where the hell are you?"
[Director, the four remaining anomalous signatures are directly ahead. Distance is decreasing.]
Havoc tightened his grip on his shotgun as he hurried around the corner of another building.
And then he saw it.
The enormous Tree of Knowledge stood before him, its massive trunk towering above the surrounding houses. But what caught his attention wasn't the tree itself.
It was what was happening at its entrance.
Several wooden barricades had been hastily placed against the enormous doors, apparently by the scholars and villagers who had taken shelter inside. Havoc heard frightened voices from beyond them, desperately calling for help as something repeatedly slammed against the entrance.
Four colorful piñata-like creatures stood outside. Three were copies of SCP-956, while the fourth was the original anomaly.
The copies were firing candy-like projectiles toward the entrance, striking the wooden barricades with enough force to splinter sections of the doors. Meanwhile, the original SCP-956 repeatedly rammed its body against the entrance, attempting to break through.
But that wasn't the worst part.
Scattered across the ground were the motionless bodies of several villagers. Some had apparently been struck by the candy projectiles while attempting to reach the safety of the Tree of Knowledge.
Havoc froze.
Oh, God...
He could see blood staining the dirt near the entrance. Some of the victims lay beside overturned furniture and broken pieces of wood, while others had collapsed farther away. He couldn't tell whether any of them were still alive.
"Those fucking monsters..."
His hands tightened around his shotgun.
For a moment, he wanted nothing more than to charge forward and start shooting. But he forced himself to remain calm.
No. Think, Havoc. If you rush in, you'll just get everyone killed.
He looked toward the barricaded entrance.
"Thank God. At least we made it before those things broke through."
[Director, the entrance's structural integrity is deteriorating. Immediate intervention is recommended.]
"Yeah, no kidding."
Havoc quickly examined the surrounding buildings and the positions of the four anomalies. He needed a plan, and he needed one fast.
"Alright, everyone. Listen carefully."
He turned toward his fifteen soldiers.
"First group, five of you take the left side. Second group, another five take the right. Find cover and wait for my signal. I want your rifles aimed at those three copies, but don't fire until I give the order."
The ten riflemen silently acknowledged his instructions and moved toward their assigned positions.
Havoc turned toward the remaining five operatives, all equipped with tactical shotguns.
"You five are coming with me. We're taking the center. Keep your weapons ready, and whatever you do, don't let those bastards get close to the entrance."
The five soldiers nodded.
Havoc watched as the two rifle groups moved into position behind damaged walls and abandoned market stalls. Their weapons were trained on the three copies, waiting for his command.
[Director, both flanking groups have reached their designated positions.]
"Good."
He took a deep breath.
Alright, Havoc. Time to get their attention.
Stepping out from behind cover, he raised his shotgun and shouted at the top of his lungs.
"HEY! YOU UGLY FUCKING CANDY-SHITTING MOTHERFUCKERS!"
His voice echoed across the clearing.
"YEAH, I'M TALKING TO YOU THREE! WHY DON'T YOU PICK ON SOMEBODY WHO CAN ACTUALLY FIGHT BACK?!"
The three copies immediately stopped firing at the entrance. Their colorful heads turned toward Havoc.
However, the original SCP-956 remained focused on the barricaded doors, continuing to strike them with its body.
Havoc grinned nervously.
Perfect. Three of them are looking at me.
He glanced toward his soldiers.
"NOW!"
Gunfire erupted from both sides of the clearing. The ten riflemen opened fire, sending a barrage of bullets toward the three copies.
The creatures reacted immediately, opening their mouths and launching candy projectiles at the soldiers.
"TAKE COVER!"
Havoc ducked behind a damaged wooden cart as several pieces of candy struck the ground and nearby walls. The five shotgun-wielding operatives accompanying him spread out, firing whenever they had a clear shot.
The clearing quickly became a battlefield.
Bullets tore through the air while candy projectiles smashed against wooden walls, shattered windows, and scattered debris. Havoc heard frightened screams coming from inside the Tree of Knowledge, but he couldn't afford to look away from the creatures.
"Keep firing! Don't let them get near the doors!"
One of the copies attempted to rush toward the left group, but a shotgun blast struck its body, sending it stumbling backward.
A second shot followed.
BANG!
The creature collapsed.
[One SCP-956 copy neutralized.]
"That's one!"
Another copy turned toward the right flank and fired several candy projectiles in rapid succession. The riflemen immediately ducked behind cover, then returned fire.
One soldier landed several direct hits, causing the anomaly to stagger. Another rifleman fired the finishing shot.
The second copy dropped onto the dirt.
[Second SCP-956 copy neutralized.]
Havoc gritted his teeth.
"One more!"
The final copy suddenly turned toward him.
Its mouth opened.
Oh, shit.
A barrage of candy projectiles shot directly toward Havoc. He tried to dodge, but several struck his shoulder, chest, and side.
"AAAGH! FUCK!"
Pain shot through his body as he stumbled backward.
His regenerative abilities immediately began repairing the damage, but that didn't make the impacts any less painful.
FUCK! THAT HURTS!
He felt his wounds closing beneath his uniform, though the sensation was far from pleasant.
"OH, FUCK ME!"
[Director, your regenerative mutation is actively repairing the damage. However, continued exposure to projectile attacks is not recommended.]
"NO SHIT!"
Havoc forced himself forward, ignoring the pain as another projectile grazed his arm.
Come on, you bastard!
The creature opened its mouth again, preparing another attack. But Havoc was already moving.
With a desperate burst of speed, he lunged toward the anomaly, closing the distance before it could fire another barrage.
"NOT THIS TIME, MOTHERFUCKER!"
He shoved the barrel of his shotgun directly against the creature's head.
For a brief moment, he hesitated.
He knew what this thing had once been.
Another innocent child.
His expression hardened with sorrow.
"Que descanses en paz... y que por fin encuentres la paz que te arrebataron."
English translation: "May you rest in peace... and may you finally find the peace that was taken from you."
BANG!
The shotgun blast struck the creature at point-blank range. Its body collapsed onto the ground.
Havoc stumbled backward, breathing heavily as he lowered his weapon.
"Jesus... fucking... Christ..."
[Third SCP-956 copy neutralized. All six previously detected copies have now been eliminated.]
Havoc closed his eyes for a moment.
Six children...
Six innocent lives that the same monstrous anomaly had stolen.
He wanted to mourn them, but one creature remained.
The original.
Havoc slowly raised his head.
SCP-956 stood near the entrance to the Tree of Knowledge. The colorful piñata had finally stopped attacking the barricaded doors.
Its head turned toward Havoc and the surrounding Foundation soldiers.
Havoc tightened his grip on his shotgun.
"There you are..."
He looked toward his operatives.
"Everyone! Regroup! Form a perimeter around that thing!"
The fifteen soldiers immediately obeyed, abandoning their previous positions and moving into a single coordinated formation around the original anomaly. They kept their rifles and shotguns trained on the creature.
Havoc stepped forward.
For the first time since arriving on Ohara, he was standing face-to-face with the very monster responsible for the nightmare that had unfolded across the island.
The same creature that had killed Boro.
The same creature whose anomalous candy had transformed Milo.
And the same creature responsible for the deaths of countless other innocent children.
Havoc stared at it with disgust.
"It's over now, you sick son of a bitch."
The piñata remained motionless. Its colorful body looked almost harmless, resembling an ordinary children's party decoration.
But Havoc knew better.
"System, prepare the containment doorway. We're bringing this bastard in."
[Understood, Director. Initiating containment preparations.]
Havoc raised his shotgun.
"Don't even think about moving."
For several seconds, nothing happened.
Then the creature began to shake.
Havoc frowned.
"...What?"
The piñata's body trembled violently, its colorful paper decorations fluttering despite the absence of wind.
[WARNING. Unusual anomalous activity detected.]
Havoc immediately became alert.
"System? What the hell is it doing?"
[Unknown, Director. Detecting a sudden increase in anomalous energy surrounding SCP-956.]
Before Havoc could respond, something began moving across the ground.
Small pieces of candy.
They were scattered among the fallen copies, the damaged buildings, and the dirt surrounding the Tree of Knowledge.
At first, only a few pieces trembled.
Then dozens began sliding across the ground.
Havoc watched in disbelief as the candy moved on its own, gathering together and rushing toward the original piñata.
"What... the fuck?"
More candy emerged from the remains of the fallen copies, joining the growing mass surrounding SCP-956. The colorful pieces began climbing its legs, wrapping themselves around its body like a living swarm.
"System! Tell me what the fuck is happening!"
[WARNING. SCP-956 is undergoing an undocumented anomalous transformation. Current Foundation records contain no information regarding this phenomenon.]
"Oh, you've gotta be fucking kidding me!"
The candy kept piling onto the creature until it was almost completely covered.
Then came a horrible cracking sound.
CRACK!
The piñata's hind legs suddenly stretched, becoming unnaturally long and thin. Its body began expanding, the colorful cardboard twisting and tearing as something underneath forced its way outward.
CRRRRACK!
Havoc took an involuntary step backward.
"Jesus Christ..."
The creature's front legs elongated next, its hooves twisting into sharp, crooked shapes that scraped against the dirt.
Its once-round body grew taller, the cardboard surface stretching into an unnatural frame.
Then its face began to split open.
The cheerful expression painted across the piñata's head tore apart as its mouth widened far beyond what should have been possible. Rows of jagged teeth emerged from the opening, resembling sharpened pieces of cardboard.
The creature's head twisted upward, its enormous mouth opening wider as the last pieces of candy disappeared into its body.
Its colorful decorations now hung from its elongated frame like torn strips of skin.
The transformation finally stopped.
Standing before Havoc and his soldiers was something that barely resembled the original SCP-956.
Its thin, towering body cast a long shadow across the clearing, while its twisted hooves dug into the ground.
The grotesque creature slowly lowered its head toward Havoc. Its enormous mouth opened, revealing the rows of jagged cardboard teeth.
Havoc stood frozen, his eyes widening as he stared at the monstrous figure before him. For several seconds, he couldn't find the words to describe what he was seeing.
Then, finally, he spoke.
"...Oh, that's just bullshit."
As if responding to his words, the transformed Child-Breaker raised its monstrous head toward the sky and unleashed a deafening roar that echoed throughout the village.
"RRRRAAAAAAAAAAGGGHHHH!"
The sheer force of its roar made Havoc instinctively raise his arm to shield his face, while his fifteen Foundation soldiers stood their ground, weapons trained on the towering creature.
[WARNING, Director. SCP-956 has undergone a significant anomalous transformation. Preliminary analysis indicates that the entity has acquired an unknown enhancement originating from this world's anomalous environment.]
Havoc stared at the creature, then responded sarcastically.
"Yeah, no shit."
He tightened his grip on his shotgun as his fifteen Foundation soldiers prepared their weapons, ready to face the monstrous anomaly standing before them.
And so, the final battle was about to begin between Havoc, his Foundation soldiers, and SCP-956, the Child-Breaker, an anomaly that had unexpectedly acquired a terrifying new form and an unknown enhancement from the world of One Piece.