Chapter 21: The Show Begins - Part 4

Chapter 21: The Show Begins - Part 4

The air in Paris was thick with tension as the operator of Mu-12 advanced through the city's narrow streets, flanked by his squad. Their mission was clear: eliminate the corrupt forces that had seized control of Paris and secure SCP-035. The operator's team moved with precision, their training evident in every step they took. Paris, usually vibrant and bustling, now felt like a ghost town, its streets echoing with the distant sounds of gunfire and explosions.

The squad made their way through the quiet streets, each member maintaining a sharp focus on their surroundings. Their objective was to reach the Rue de Rivoli, a street that was heavily fortified by the corrupted forces. The operator, whose name was Matthew, kept his eyes peeled for any signs of ambush or traps. The stakes were high, and every second counted.

As they approached Rue de Rivoli, the operator could see the barricades and makeshift fortifications that had been hastily erected by the enemy. The barricades were made of overturned vehicles, stacks of wooden pallets, and even debris from nearby buildings. Sandbags were piled high, creating a formidable obstacle for anyone trying to advance.

Matthew's team approached the barricades with caution. They could see armed men and women peering out from behind the makeshift defenses, their faces tense and wary. The operator signaled for his squad to spread out, taking cover behind the nearest cover. The air was thick with the smell of gunpowder and the faint traces of smoke from previous skirmishes.

Suddenly, a burst of gunfire erupted from behind the barricades. The enemy soldiers, clearly on edge, began firing in their direction. Matthew ducked behind a pillar, his heart racing as he returned fire. The sound of bullets whizzing past and the clatter of spent casings hitting the ground created a cacophony of chaos. The operator's training kicked in, and he focused on his breathing, trying to stay calm amidst the pandemonium.

The firefight continued, with Matthew's squad expertly maneuvering around the barricades. They used the debris and overturned vehicles for cover, moving methodically to avoid exposing themselves to the enemy's fire. The operator could see his teammates moving with precision, their movements fluid and synchronized.

As they advanced, Matthew's radio crackled to life. "Command to Mu-12, we've spotted the target. The officer carrying SCP-035 is heading into the catacombs. You need to follow and secure the area."

Matthew acknowledged the command and relayed the information to his squad. They adjusted their strategy, focusing on pushing forward and cutting off any potential escape routes for the corrupted forces. The operator could see the determination in his teammates' eyes, their resolve unwavering despite the intensity of the battle.

With the barricades finally breached, the squad pushed into the Rue de Rivoli, which had become a battleground. The street was littered with debris, and the air was thick with smoke. The operator spotted a group of corrupted soldiers trying to regroup behind a building. He signaled his squad to move in, and they engaged the enemy with precision, clearing the area of any remaining hostiles.

As they continued their advance, Matthew's radio crackled again. "Mu-12, we have confirmation that SCP-035's host is entering the catacombs. We need you to move quickly. The area is becoming increasingly unstable."

The operator acknowledged the message and directed his squad towards the entrance of the catacombs. The catacombs, a network of underground tunnels and chambers, were notorious for their labyrinthine layout. Navigating them would be challenging, but it was crucial to secure SCP-035.

The entrance to the catacombs was hidden behind a heavy, rusted door. Matthew and his squad pried it open and descended into the darkness. The air was damp and musty, and the sound of dripping water echoed through the tunnels. The operator turned on his flashlight, illuminating the narrow passage ahead.

The squad moved cautiously through the catacombs, their footsteps echoing ominously. The operator could hear the distant sounds of combat, a reminder that the situation above ground was still volatile. They pressed on, their senses alert for any signs of ambush or traps.

As they made their way deeper into the catacombs, the operator's radio crackled again. "Mu-12, be advised. We have reports of heavy resistance in the area. The enemy is well entrenched and prepared for a prolonged fight."

Matthew acknowledged the update and relayed the information to his squad. They adjusted their approach, moving with even greater caution. The catacombs were becoming increasingly treacherous, with narrow passageways and unstable terrain.

Suddenly, the squad was met with a barrage of gunfire. The enemy had set up an ambush, and the operator's team found themselves under heavy attack. Matthew ducked behind a crumbling wall, returning fire as his squad engaged the enemy. The firefight was intense, with bullets ricocheting off the stone walls and the sound of gunfire reverberating through the tunnels.

The operator's squad fought fiercely, their training evident in their coordinated movements. They used the cover of the catacombs to their advantage, moving from one position to another with precision. Despite their efforts, the enemy's resistance was formidable, and the battle raged on.

Just as it seemed like the fight would never end, a violent explosion shook the catacombs. A nearby passageway had been rigged with explosives, and the blast sent debris flying. The operator was thrown forward, his weapon slipping from his grasp as he tumbled through the dust and rubble.

As the dust settled, Matthew found himself face-to-face with SCP-035's host. The policeman, still wearing the mask of SCP-035, stood over him with a malevolent grin. The operator's heart raced as he tried to reach his radio, but the signal was blocked. The oppressive silence of the catacombs was broken only by the sound of his ragged breathing.

SCP-035's host produced a knife from his belt, its blade gleaming ominously in the dim light. Matthew's mind raced as he tried to assess the situation. With his radio down and his weapon out of reach, he had little choice but to confront the hostile directly.

The operator took a deep breath and drew his own knife, the cold metal feeling reassuring in his hand. He stood up, facing SCP-035's host. The two adversaries locked eyes, the mask's grin reflecting the twisted satisfaction of SCP-035's influence.

The tension in the catacombs was palpable as they prepared for their confrontation. Matthew's senses were heightened, every sound and movement amplified in the confined space. He could feel the weight of the situation pressing down on him, the stakes higher than ever.

SCP-035's host lunged at Matthew with the knife, the blade slicing through the air. The operator dodged, narrowly avoiding the strike. He countered with a quick thrust of his own knife, but the host's agility allowed him to evade the attack.

The fight was a deadly dance, each combatant using their agility and skill to gain the upper hand. Matthew moved with precision, his training evident in every movement. SCP-035's host, however, seemed to revel in the chaos, his movements erratic and unpredictable.

The confined space of the catacombs made the fight even more intense. The operator and the host maneuvered around the debris, their movements echoing through the tunnels. The sound of clashing metal and the grunts of exertion filled the air.

Despite his efforts, Matthew found himself struggling to gain the upper hand. SCP-035's host was relentless, his attacks coming with a frenzied intensity. The operator was forced to adapt quickly, using his environment to his advantage.

In a moment of desperation, Matthew managed to disarm SCP-035's host, knocking the knife from his hand. The host, momentarily stunned, stumbled backward. The operator seized the opportunity and lunged forward, tackling the host to the ground.

The two combatants grappled on the floor, their struggle a brutal display of strength and determination. Matthew could feel the host's twisted influence trying to overwhelm him, but he fought back with every ounce of his resolve.

Just as it seemed like the struggle would continue indefinitely, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the catacombs. Reinforcements were on their way, and Matthew could hear their shouts as they approached. He knew he had to hold on until they arrived.

As the sounds of approaching footsteps echoed through the catacombs, Matthew's hope of reinforcement was abruptly shattered. He glanced toward the entrance, only to be met with a horrifying sight—what he had hoped were reinforcements turned out to be more of the corrupted forces, their faces twisted with malevolent glee. The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. The enemy had sent their own reinforcements to keep the fight going.

Panic surged through him, but he quickly squashed it down, focusing on survival. With a burst of adrenaline, Matthew sprang to his feet and darted behind a crumbling pillar. The moment he took cover, the corrupted troops opened fire, their bullets tearing through the air with lethal intent. The deafening roar of their weapons and the scorching heat of the bullets as they ricocheted off the stone walls was overwhelming.

Matthew's mind raced. He needed to act fast. He reached for a flashbang grenade from his tactical vest, pulling the pin and tossing it into the fray. The grenade landed amid the group of approaching enemies, and as it exploded, a blinding light and deafening noise filled the catacombs. The five attackers were momentarily stunned, their senses overwhelmed.

Taking advantage of the chaos, Matthew emerged from his cover. He lunged at the disoriented attackers, his combat knife flashing in the dim light. The first enemy fell quickly, unable to react in time. Another tried to recover, but Matthew's training allowed him to move with a lethal precision. He dispatched a second enemy with swift, clean strikes, the knife finding its mark with chilling accuracy.

In the melee, Matthew faced off against two remaining enemies. Their weapons clashed with his knife, creating a cacophony of metal and violence. One of the attackers was handling a machete, while the other brandished a knife, both desperate to subdue the lone operative. Matthew ducked and weaved, using his agility to his advantage. He parried a swing and delivered a counterstrike, the edge of his knife slicing through the corrupted soldier's defenses.

The battle was fierce, a brutal exchange of blows and strikes. Matthew's breaths came in sharp, ragged gasps as he fought to maintain control. His movements were a blur of skill and determination, each strike calculated to maximize his advantage. He felt the adrenaline coursing through his veins, fueling his every motion.

With a final, decisive move, Matthew disarmed the last attacker, knocking the knife from his hand. The soldier tried to fight back, but the operator's superior combat skills proved too much. In a swift, brutal maneuver, Matthew neutralized his opponent, the final foe collapsing to the floor in a heap.

Breathing heavily, Matthew scanned the area, ensuring that the immediate threat was neutralized. The flashbang's effects were wearing off, and the catacombs began to return to their eerie silence. He retrieved his weapon from where it had fallen and checked its condition. Satisfied that it was still operational, he readied himself for the next phase of the mission.

Matthew's thoughts raced as he moved forward. The stakes were higher than ever, and he needed to reach SCP-035 before it was too late. The catacombs were a maze of tunnels and chambers, and the operator knew that navigating them would be fraught with danger. But he had come too far to turn back now.

He pressed on, his senses alert for any further signs of ambush or traps. The catacombs seemed to close in around him, the oppressive darkness adding to the sense of urgency. With every step, Matthew remained focused on his mission, determined to secure SCP-035 and end the chaos that had gripped Paris.

As he continued through the tunnels, the sounds of distant combat and the occasional muffled explosion reminded him of the larger battle taking place above ground. The city was in turmoil, and every moment counted. Matthew's resolve was unshakable. He would see this mission through to the end, no matter the cost.

—

Lieutenant Hayes crouched behind a debris-strewn car, his squad crouched around him, catching their breath. The sounds of the battle around Place de la Concorde had begun to fade as they prepared for their next mission. His squad consisted of six highly trained operators, each equipped with the latest tactical gear. Hayes checked his radio, ensured his team was ready, and gave the signal to move out. The objective was clear: secure the Centre Pompidou, a key strategic location now overrun with corrupted forces.

The squad moved out in a tight formation, advancing cautiously through the smoke-filled streets. Hayes led from the front, his eyes scanning the surroundings for threats. The grandeur of the Place de la Concorde was now marred by the signs of conflict—broken statues, overturned vehicles, and scattered debris.

Turning onto Rue Royale, Hayes directed his squad to move with caution. The street, lined with historic buildings, offered some cover but also presented numerous potential vantage points for enemies. The squad used the cover of parked cars and shop fronts to advance, their steps synchronized to avoid creating noise that could attract attention.

As they progressed, sporadic gunfire erupted from nearby alleys. Hayes signaled his team to halt and take up defensive positions behind the nearest cover. His team moved swiftly, their movements precise as they engaged the enemy. Hayes's orders were clear and concise: neutralize the threats efficiently while minimizing exposure.

The squad's training shone through as they responded to the enemy fire with well-coordinated bursts. They advanced, clearing each position before moving on, their focus unwavering. Despite the chaos around them, Hayes's leadership ensured that his team remained composed and effective.

Arriving at Rue de Rivoli, Hayes encountered heavier resistance. The street was a critical artery, and the enemy had fortified it significantly. Makeshift barricades and sandbagged positions were evident, and the squad had to adapt quickly. Hayes's radio crackled with reports from other units, confirming that the situation was deteriorating rapidly.

Hayes ordered his team to split into two fire teams, to coordinate with Mu-12, with one providing suppressive fire while the other advanced. The squad moved with precision, using the cover of abandoned vehicles and debris. The firefight intensified, and the team had to adjust their tactics on the fly. Explosions rocked the street as grenades impacted nearby, and Hayes coordinated the squad's movements to avoid being pinned down.

The team's communication was key to their success. Hayes's clear, authoritative voice on the radio kept everyone focused. They moved forward steadily, neutralizing enemy positions and securing the area. Despite the chaos, the squad's training allowed them to maintain their composure and effectiveness.

Boulevard de Sébastopol was a stark contrast to the previous streets. The major road was heavily defended, and the squad encountered a well-entrenched enemy force. Hayes gathered his team and conducted a brief tactical meeting. They needed to breach the enemy's defenses to continue their mission.

Hayes's team employed a combination of flashbangs and smoke grenades to create confusion and obscure the enemy's vision. They launched a coordinated assault, using the smoke to cover their advance. The squad moved in unison, using the smoke to approach the barricades and engage the enemy.

The combat was intense. Hayes's team fought through barricades and entrenched positions, their movements precise and methodical. They worked to neutralize the enemy while maintaining control of their flanks. The team's training and discipline were evident as they moved through the chaotic battlefield.

The final stretch took Hayes and his squad down Rue du Renard. The narrow street offered less cover but led directly to their objective. Hayes ordered his team to stay alert and move quickly. The proximity to the Centre Pompidou heightened the tension.

As they approached the Centre Pompidou, Hayes noticed a change in the atmosphere. The street was eerily quiet, with the sounds of combat fading as they neared their target. The iconic building loomed in the distance, a stark reminder of the importance of their mission.

The Centre Pompidou was heavily fortified. Hayes and his squad took up positions around the perimeter, their eyes scanning for any signs of enemy activity. They had to be cautious; the area was known for its complex architecture, which could be both a challenge and an advantage.

Hayes directed his team to initiate the breach. They used a combination of flashbangs and breaching charges to clear the outer defenses. Explosions and flashes of light erupted as they created entry points and disrupted the enemy's defenses.

Inside, the Centre Pompidou was a chaotic battleground. The squad used the building's unique layout to their advantage. They moved through the various levels, engaging the enemy from multiple angles. The firefight was fierce, with enemies entrenched behind makeshift barricades and using the building's structure for cover.

The combat inside the Centre Pompidou was intense. Hayes's team fought through rooms filled with debris and overturned furniture. The enemy forces, entrenched and prepared, fought back with determination. Hayes's orders were focused on maintaining control and pushing forward. His team coordinated their movements, using suppressive fire and tactical maneuvers to gain the upper hand.

As the battle inside the Centre Pompidou subsided, Hayes's squad worked to secure the building. They established defensive positions and conducted a thorough sweep to ensure no enemy forces remained. The team's medics attended to any wounded personnel, and Hayes coordinated with other units to ensure that the area was fully secured.

Captain Hayes assessed the situation. The Centre Pompidou was now under their control, but the battle had been hard-fought.