Hellsing—Bloodlust

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Disclaimer—Again, I do NOT own Hellsing. Get off my fricking back. (gives a bloodthirsty roar and chases the lawyers) Can you tell that I don't like lawyers? Courts are where the lawyers get fat. Ha!

Summary—Things have cool off since Anderson and Alucard's little fight. Iscariot and Hellsing continue to live under the same roof. A simple card game turns into Strip Poker and then into war! Slight humor. Some possible parings.

Author's Notes—Please keep in mind that so far everything has happen all in about 24hours. Everybody will be going to bed. This chapter takes places later in the day. Things have calmed down…somewhat…

AN2—If you see this 'O', there a footnote. Of course you don't have to read it, but it must help.

Remember…reviews, reviews. I need reviews.

Ta.

Immortalis

Brewing Concerns Strip Poker, Anyone?

--Hellsing Manor

--Pool-room

--7:47pm

Overall, the evening started well until Alucard offered, "There could always be an accident."

The Hellsing members groaned. Seras winced, closing her eyes and begged "Don't even say that. Not right now, Master. Please…"

Alucard smirked doubtfully at his childe and replied hotly, "Do not get your panties in a bunch, Police-Girl. It was a figment of speech." After a pause he added, "Just a little accident. Besides the Royal Order members are too thicked-skull to see the wiser. Maxwell might be missed, but within the week the sniveling leech will be replaced. Just a small accident…like stray bullets or a bad case of food poisoning."

Pip liked the sound of that, but of course, he liked anything with murder, mayhem and some good-old-fun. Integra shook her head. She replied firmly, "No. That would look great for my record…'Report: all Iscariot agents mysteriously die while investigating the Hellsing Organization.'" She made him a hard and cold stare. Sometimes she could not comprehend his idiotic ideas. "Brilliant Alucard." Her tone was drenched with sarcasm. "Genius! Why hadn't I thought about that earlier?"

"Perhaps, you too focused on blowing my manhood off," Alucard offered bitterly. "I would rather never repeat that again, Integra." He had good reason. It took three whole hours to completely heal himself. The ego of a No-Life King was essential for his well-being. (Like most males. Ha!)

Even during the gravest times and on the edge of the abyss, Integra composed her stern, indifferent and professional conduct. Perhaps it was a dominant Hellsing trait—from Abraham to the last descendent, Integra Hellsing. Her facial expressions were stoic but no masking could hide those eyes. After all 'eyes are the window to one's soul' and Alucard never had a finer view. It was a front row seat. They whispered troubled and rambling thoughts. Her saddened and even distressed sapphire-stone eyes gazed into the endless distance.

Unfortunately by Iscariot's presence, the invasion of the Blood-Bar and the acquiring of Marius Von Montague were postponed. That further pissed Integra off. When she was upset Integra was often violent and the object of her projection was none other than Alucard. Perhaps he liked it.

Walter started, "Sir Integra—"

The Heir of Hellsing interrupted him. Surprisingly her voice lost none of its original tone demeanor, "I do not wish to hear it, Walter. I do not give a damn about Iscariot. Millennium is my concern."

Not convinced he continued, "It is not a matter which can be easily set aside."

Pip exhaled. "Shitfuck. This Iscariot sounds like bad news. Like a fucking cockroach that would die. Their presence will make our investigation harder. More difficult."

"Especially since Sir Integra is not allow to go anywhere without an escort from Iscariot," Seras added.

Walter nodded. "True. Very true. Besides Paladin Anderson will have a close eye on Alucard."

The No-Life King smirked doubtfully.

"And Miss Victoria."

Police-Girl blinked in surprise. "Do you really think so? I mean—I am not even a proper vampire."

Walter nodded. "True…" his voice was harsher when he added, "However, Lord Alucard is your sire…and that rises some concern from Iscariot."

Seras heaved a sigh and slumped low in her seat. Her chin touched the swell of her beast and she mumbled, "I really don't like them. And now we shall be interrogated. What joy!" It was true. Soon after the little war in the basement, Maxwell ordered the Hellsing members to meet him and the other Iscariots for a tête-à-tête. Apparently the little leech had something to say. So here they were since 7 o'clock and still waiting for the Archbishop. He was always late. "Hellsing shouldn't be interrogated. We did nothing wrong. It was Incognito. Somebody else is responsible."

Alucard noted that Integra fumbled her bandaged earlobe and refused to make eye contact with him. It was spot where that White-Demon bit her and proceed to suck her blood through the tiny hole, using her virginal essence to summon Set, god of chaos and mayhem. Vampric wounds were difficult to mend and lately Integra Hellsing had seen her fair share.

Integra explained, "Some poor soul must take the fall."

Seras curled her hands into fists. "Bullocks!"

The Angel of Death patted her on the shoulder and at once she calmed; after all, his touch was gentle and almost fatherly. He passed her a kind look. "Calm yourself, Miss Victoria. You shall see…everything will be just fine."

"But it isn't fair," protested the young fledging.

"So…" Pip started, "What kind of questions are they going be asking?"

Integra pinched her sinuses, since she started to feel the painful beginnings of a headache. Her blood hammered through her veins and her brain literally felt like it would ooze out of her ears and pop her skull into a million pieces. Perhaps the bloodletting had finally gotten to her. Great! And Alucard's presence would only intensify the circumstance. "It matters not. Maxwell will manipulate your answers. He will ask questions so he can get the answers he wants. Just say little as possible. Keep it simple."

Pip offered, "Hey perhaps he'll get frustrated and go home."

"Unlikely," retorted the No-Life King.

Like anyone the Frenchman hated jerks. "This guy is a little fucker." He added pointing to Integra, "And oh my…does he hate you. I haven't even met him—but I heard plenty from Police-Girl. Shithead called you a 'squealing-English-sow!' One thing I learned from my granddad is that you never disrespect a woman. Never. What's that one saying…?"

Integra had a good idea what he was referring to but Alucard spoke first, "'Hell hath no fury like a woman's scorn.'"

Integra nodded. "You have no idea."

Alucard adjusted himself. "I believe that feeling is mutual." Contrary to

Integra, it was possible to argue that the No-Life King hated Maxwell more so than she. "You hate him. I hate him. We hate him."

"I hate to say it, but this accident sounds promising," the Frenchman offered.

Integra only smiled. It was rare sight these days. "As much as that sounds tempting and rather enjoyable…it is not a possible road."

The Hellsing band gathered around a small coffee table, playing card-games and drinking either tea, spirits or according to Alucard and Seras, blood was their chosen drink. They often spent time together. Pip and Seras sat on the floor, while Walter remained in his chair. Alucard had moved the love-couch closer so he and his Master could share it. Together, him at one end and her at the other they could stare at each other, whispering and exchanging thoughts. Or blood offerings.

Returning to business Integra stated, "Regardless, the plans will remain in motion. We will move when the time is perfect."

Walter interrupted, "I am afraid that we have one problem—the Blood-Bar moves. It doesn't stay in a constant spot."

"Alucard?"

The No-Life King lifted his shoulders impassively. "Don't look at me, Master. Regrettably, I have not been to a Blood-Bar in at least hundred years. No doubt by now, The Covenant O has changed the aura. I cannot sense it, not without some direction."

Integra cursed, "Damn."

Walter added quickly, "There is a insider who can offered his assistance."

"Is he reliable?"

"Oh yes. Hellsing has had dealings with him—Remus Grayback O." Integra knew the name. "If we acquire his services, Hellsing must meet him tomorrow. I have the exact time and place." The Butler held up a hand-written note.

Integra smiled and added sweetly, "I shall be canceling my outing with the Duchess O tomorrow."

Walter blinked. "Truly? I imagine that she will be most displease."

"Tell the wench that I shall make it up with her." The Duchess was a vile woman and some individuals would go so far as to call her evil. After her imprisonment, Integra had become the sole object of her interest. She was royal birth and there would be no way to avoid her.

"I will make note of it. Shall we play?"

Pip adjusted his eye patch and struggled his shoulders. "Fair enough. Ready to play? Hopefully the Iscariot fuck-ups will be here soon."

Alucard closed his eyes and sniffed the air. "Just down the hall, coming to the door."

The room quickly silenced as the solid-oak door flew open, revealing two shadowed silhouette figures—the agents of Iscariot. It was Director Enrico Maxwell, the Paladin Alexander Anderson and Father Renaldo. The Hellsing Organization and Sir Integra Fairbook Wingates Hellsing were currently under 'investigation,' by the Iscariot Agency. There had always been great dislike and unrest between the two institutes. Besides, now both reside under the same roof. It would not be long before war erupted.

Alucard eyes perked. "What fun we shall have!!"

Integra set aside her cards and pulled Alucard down by his tie. Their faces were a mere inch apart. She could smell the old and stale blood on his lips. "Alucard! Remember you are to be on your best behavior. And that is an order, a direct order. Violate it, and I can assure you that you will suffer consequences. No—absolutely, no untoward comments or profane suggestions. No scaring Iscariot. No harassing the women…that includes Seras Victoria."

The No-Life King blinked and flatly protested, "I object, Integra. Police-Girl is mine! My own personal fledging. That is my given right—"

"I do not give a damn! Be polite to Maxwell. No death threats. I warn you Count, I do not wish to add more enemies against our favor. Promise me. Alucard promise me."

Alucard grinned darkly as his scarlet eyes bored into her soul. "I have never heard you talk with that tone. Say something else."

Fuming Integra shoved him away. She studied her cards. "Behave or I shall lace your blood with silver."

He mumbled under his breath, "Punishment, you say? Well leather, whips and chains ought to do." Hellsing continued with their game. Yumiko and Heinkel took towards the books. It took every ounce of self-control to conceal his glee when Anderson and Maxwell approached the table. He failed miserable.

Studying the room Maxwell cooed, "Ah indeed. I expect that I would find you here. I thought we would all have a nice dinner together. Introductions are in order."

"Have you forgotten, Maxwell? We have been waiting for your…" Integra paused and added softer, "presence for almost an hour."

"Oh truly? I do apologize." Maxwell noted, "You have nothing planned?"

She heaved an irritated sigh. "You forget Maxwell, Hellsing is under prohibition and our duty is limited. There is not much to do. Or would you care to join our modest party?"

The Judas-Priest closed his eyes in distain. "No. No Miss Integra. I am under order to merely observe and report."

"Hey! I got it! How about Strip Poker," offered Pip, ranking his eyes over Seras Victoria. She fumed, enraged. Defiantly, the Police-Girl folded her cards on the table. Flashing a wicked grin, Pip buttoned one button as if trying to tempt her. He raised his eyebrows suggestively, flashing his teeth. She caught herself staring down at his muscular and youthful physique. Seras Victoria blushed rosy pink.

Alucard tipped his head back and let out a mechanical chuckle.

Walter passed a disproval look at the Frenchman.

Integra rolled her eyes. The mercenary was useful, save but his fowl mouth, suggestive manners and nasty habits. Captain Bernadette was the sort of character who brightened the worst circumstance. He had a dry sense of humor, which bemused Alucard and annoyed Walter. "Director Enrico Maxwell…and Father Alexander Anderson…" she stood to her feet and introduced them to the Frenchman. "This is Captain Pip Bernadette, Leader of the Wild Geese."

At once Pip jumped to his feet and shook Maxwell's limp handshake. "Merci. So you all must be the folks from the Vatican. Heard about you, from Police-Girl. You sound…interesting."

Anderson blinked. "The Wild Geese?"

"Personal body guards."

Maxwell came to realization. "Indeed. I remember now, all private SAS and MI-6 personal were removal at your…well 'fall from grace.' And now you have hired mercenaries—pagans, heathens and atheists. Pity. I thought the House of Hellsing could sink no lower."

Integra did not miss a beat. "I might have been removed of my duty, but I still have enemies—undead and human alike. You know that too well. And besides the Wild Geese are professionals. Next to Peter Ferguson, they are more loyal than any SAS troop or MI-6 personal under my employment. I trust them. And they will never betray Hellsing."

Anderson replied stiffly, "As long as there is a contract. And money."

"Naturally with any business," said Pip. "Churches included."

"Indeed," Maxwell leered.

The Frenchman advanced closer, staring down Maxwell's emerald-stones eyes with his one good eye. "Bite me, dick-weed. Listen—you don't have to like me. Fuck, I don't like you…but you will respect me." Before Maxwell could comment, Pip turned his back on the Judas-Priest. "Walter! How about another game of pool tonight?"

Walter struggled his shoulders. "Perhaps…I am still out of practice."

"Then I'll be waiting for you…" He asked the group, "Strip poker anyone?"

Intrigued Anderson approached and asked, "What are ye doing?"

"Cards. It's Poker, mate," replied Pip, adjusting his eye-patch and flicking his bangs from his face. Walter shuffled the deck, and Anderson noticed the cards were lavishly decorated with crude drawings of naked-ladies, bearing arms and blades. His curled his upper lip in distaste. Pip cut the deck, and then Walter started to distribute the cards to the individual players—Sir Integra, Seras Victoria, Pip Bernadette, and Alucard. Strange enough, the Angel of Death could wheel his razor wires with lightning speed and, but now he was deliberately slow. Perhaps, time had finally caught up with him. Taking his cards Pip further explained, "The rules are simple, even for a priest—"

"Gambling is a sin," warned the Judas-Priest.

Pip did not even pat an eyelash at the remark.

Beside him, Seras Victoria appeared very uncomfortable, while the remaining party organized their cards. Anderson frightened her. The Paladin had made her cry quarts. The French-Captain lit another cancer joint, blowing the tonic fumes into the air and taking another swig of cheap whiskey. He joked, "Shitfuck! Funny. Look at me. Does it look like I have a problem—or a concern about sin, Father?" Anderson wrinkled his nose in revulsion, however Enrico Maxwell seemed tempted to join in on the game, even if it was a sin. "I was under the impression that you…and your Boss didn't give a flying hoot!! I am touched."

The Catholic offered in a sweet, warm fatherly tone, "Do you wish to confess your sins, my son?" He touched his rosemary.

Pip chuckled. "You jest! We'd be here all fucking night—and the next morning. Besides I don't have any plans in getting hammered in my rear, priest. The choice is simple: Play or Piss off."

"Aye, heathen. I shall watch. Just observe, not join," Anderson answered, sitting beside the only 'Hellsing-dog" he could stomach, Walter C. Dornez. The former Trashman of Protestant Knight, the aged Angel of Death gave him an inviting and warm smile, scooting his chair to give him more room. He offered the Judas Priest a cup of tea; he humbly declined with a wave of his hand.

His stomach gave a lurch when he discovered that he was sitting across his adversary, the Nosferatu Alucard. The vampire merely grinned, suckling his daily Medical-Blood supply through a straw. Anderson shivered in disgust but mumbling his prayers gave him comfort. Regardless one hand remained on his blessed blades.

"Whatever, cock-bag," mumbled Pip. Hearing this, Seras Victoria choked on a laugh and patted the Frenchman on the shoulder. He blinked in surprised and asked Maxwell, "So what's your choice, homo?"

"Not tonight. I have some private business with Hellsing."

Integra said, "Speak freely."

Maxwell explained sweetly, "Iscariot would like to begin the Inquisition as soon as possible…beginning with face-to-face interview with each of you. Alone." The Hellsing members remained silent. Seras Victoria exchanged a questionable glance at Walter; however clam as always, the Angel of Death shrugged his shoulders impassively and gave a warm smile. It was a simple way of saying, "you will be just fine." Alucard chuckled and disguised it as a violent cough. It was a foolish practice. He mumbled something in his original foreign tongue. Whatever it was, it did not sound faltering. Integra was stoic, while Pip looked slightly confused.

"I believe we shall start with…" Maxwell examined the party of five with great interest. Who would be the guinea pig? Father Renaldo whispered lightly into his ear. "Ah yes…we shall begin with the hired mercenary. Captain Pip Bernadette…"

The Frenchman raised a suspicious brow. "Say what?"

"Come with us."

He exchanged a glance with Sir Integra, who nodded and waved him off. Perhaps drunk on love and booze, Pip was not stupid just silly. He knew the drill—say little as possible. He grabbed his bottle, tucked his cigarette behind his ear and reluctantly followed Iscariot.

Seras waved him goodbye. "Good luck Captain."

"Hell, I rather have a good-luck kiss."

Pip puckered his lips and leaned intimately close to her, but her hand shot up and firmly pushed him away. "Perhaps later…"

"Fine—but don't think that I won't collect that promise." Looking at the open door he groaned. Just before leaving Pip glanced into the room and gagged, shoving his middle finger down his throat. He rolled his eyes and disappeared. "Fucking cockroach that won't die."

TBC

Hee yaw!

I hoped you all enjoyed it. I did plan to have Pip's Interview in this chapter, but overall, I thought that it would be too much. Besides, if it is separated I can add more.

FOOTNOTES

1 O—The Covenant is secret society composed of vampires.

2 O—Remus Grayback is a werewolf. He has had dealings with the Captain and he and Walter have been friends for many years. Alucard does not find him agreeable; after all, vampires are not partial to werewolves. They are not the best of friends. I promise that you will meet him later on.

3 O—The Duchess. I have already mentioned the Duchess in Chapter 2 and I must introduce you.

Thank you.

Immortalis