Maya sat at her desk, engrossed in the reports and paperwork spread before her. The recent anomalies captured by the Foundation required her attention, and she diligently addressed each issue, her mind focused on the task at hand.

As she worked, a small smile formed on her lips, reminiscent of the interactions she had with Blank, SCP-1701, a young anomaly who arrived at the Foundation two months ago.

Just as she was lost in her thoughts, Alex appeared at the doorframe, his curiosity piqued by Maya's smile. He leaned against the frame, his gaze fixed on her, and he couldn't help but ask,

"Maya, what's got you smiling like that?"

Looking up from her documents, Maya's smile widened, and she motioned for Alex to enter her office.

"Alex, have you ever heard of SCP-1701? We call him Blank."

Alex furrowed his brow, his expression betraying a hint of unease.

"I've heard the name, but I don't know much about him. Seen him around a few times. Gotta admit, though, he gives me the creeps."

Maya leaned back in her chair, understanding Alex's apprehension. She knew that Blank's appearance, with his unsettling eyes and anomalous abilities, could be scary.

However, she also knew the true nature of Blank, the innocence that dwelled within him. With a comforting tone, Maya began,

"Blank may seem strange at first, but I assure you, he's not dangerous. In fact, he's quite friendly. He used to be a human, and he still retains his curiosity and joy.

The anomaly he possesses allows him to remove specific memories, but only if he loses control of his emotions. It's part of his defence mechanism, I believe."

Alex's skepticism softened as he listened to Maya's explanation. He leaned closer, intrigued by Maya's words.

"So, you're saying he's harmless?"

Maya nodded, her smile warm and reassuring.

"No anomaly is safe, and you know all about it, Alex. But Blank is a sweet child at heart. I've had a few interactions with him, and he's shown nothing but curiosity and a desire to connect with others.

I believe that befriending him could be beneficial for both of us. We could learn from him, and in return, we can provide him with a sense of companionship."

As Maya spoke, her attention shifted to the window, her eyes widening in delight. She couldn't help but interrupt her conversation with Alex.

"Look, there they are!"

Alex followed her gaze, observing Dr. Duchermen walking alongside Blank. The anomaly seemed animated, pointing at various objects and asking questions, while Dr. Duchermen patiently engaged in conversation with him.

The sight was endearing, and it further solidified Maya's belief in the goodness within Blank. Maya turned back to Alex, her voice filled with conviction.

"See? Blank just needs understanding and friendship. And with Dr. Duchermen's guidance, I believe he has a chance to flourish here. So, what do you say, Alex? Will you give him a chance?"

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

Alex watched the duo through the window, a smile slowly spreading across his face.

He turned to Maya, his eyes shining with newfound openness.

"You know what? I think I will. Let's give Blank a chance."

As Ravierre knocked on the open door, the noise of Blank's inquisitive chatter filled the air, causing a playful glimmer to dance in Maya's eyes. She gestured for Ravierre to enter, simultaneously waving at Blank, who returned her gesture with an infectious grin.

Ravierre stepped into the office, his calm demeanour contrasting with the lively atmosphere surrounding Blank. He motioned for Blank to occupy himself for a while, knowing that he needed a moment alone with Maya. The anomaly obediently walked over to Alex's side, his eyes wide with curiosity.

With a gentle pat on Blank's shoulder, Ravierre leaned closer to Maya, handing her a stack of documents related to Blank's psychological profile.

"Maya, I've compiled some information about Blank that I thought might be helpful. It includes his preferences, strengths, and areas of interest. It should give us a better understanding of his unique needs and how we can support him."

Maya took the documents, flipping through the pages with a mix of curiosity and gratitude. She looked up at Ravierre, a glimmer of appreciation in her eyes.

"Thank you, Ravierre. This will definitely help us create a more conducive environment for Blank. It's remarkable how much progress he's made since he arrived here."

Ravierre nodded, his voice filled with pride.

"Indeed, he's a remarkable anomaly. Despite his unusual abilities, he possesses an innocence and curiosity that is truly endearing. I've been working closely with him, building trust and helping him navigate his new reality. It's been a rewarding experience."

As Ravierre and Maya delved deeper into the discussion, exploring strategies to support Blank's growth, they were too engrossed in their conversation to hear Blank's voice drifting over from Alex's side.

Blank's curiosity spilled out in a torrent of questions, causing a hint of unease to flicker across Alex's face. Blank tugged at the sleeve of Alex's shirt, his voice filled with excitement.

"Hey, what do you do here? Do you like it? Can you show me something cool?"

Alex, initially taken aback by the sudden barrage of questions, quickly composed himself, realizing that Blank simply saw him as a potential playmate. He smiled warmly, deciding to engage with the curious anomaly.

"Well, I'm a guard here. My job is to keep everyone safe and make sure nothing bad happens. It can be challenging sometimes, but I do enjoy it. And as for something cool, hmm... How about I show you a neat trick later? Would you like that?"

Blank's eyes widened with anticipation, a bright smile lighting up his face.

"Yes, please! That sounds amazing!"

As their conversation continued, Alex took on the role of a friend, sharing tales of his experiences and gently explaining that not everyone they encounter would be as kind and understanding as Blank.

As the conversation unfolded, Alex's initial unease melted away, replaced by a genuine connection with Blank. Alex discovered the joy of embracing Blank's innocence and curiosity, finding himself more at ease in the presence of the anomaly.

Meanwhile, Maya and Ravierre continued their discussion, unaware of the interaction taking place nearby.

They delved deeper into the intricacies of Blank's psychological profile, weaving strategies and ideas that would further support his integration into the Foundation.

As their conversation drew to a close, Maya and Ravierre exchanged appreciative nods, grateful for their fruitful discussion. However, before parting ways, Alex asks Maya for a favour.

"Maya, do you mind if I borrow your radio for a moment? I want to show Blank how it works."

Maya smiled warmly and nodded.

"Of course, Alex. Go ahead, show him how it works. I'm sure he'll be thrilled."

With the radio in hand, Alex stepped outside the office and closed the door behind him. Blank's eyes lit up with excitement as he eagerly awaited Alex's trick.

"What is he doing?" Blank asked, looking to Maya and Ravierre for an answer.

Ravierre chimed in, unable to fully suppress his smile.

"Just wait for an instant. We'll help you when you need it so don't worry."

Alex's voice crackled through the radio, reaching Blank's eager ears. The child anomaly listened intently and responded with enthusiasm, his innocence shining through his every word.

The room filled with the sound of their playful exchange, Maya's smile growing wider with each passing moment.

Just as the atmosphere brimmed with joy and newfound connection, the serenity was abruptly shattered by the deafening sound of an explosion.

The lights in the entire building flickered and dimmed, casting the room into darkness. Panic washed over them as instructions materialized on their smartwatches, the urgent words commanding their attention:

"Code black: breach by SCP-0010. No movements and sound except by authorized staff."