Eternal Sin

Chapter 11 – The Vatican Misfits

Military Headquarters - London, August 12th, 9:56 a.m.

The vibe coming from the Convention of Twelve members, who all sat around the table, was stifling. There was a knot of tension between Integra's shoulders but she hid the stress well behind her mask of iron will. She couldn't blame the poor sods because what she just finished telling them was difficult to swallow. Holy Hunters. Vampire burning rituals. The Watcher's assassination at the police station. Doppelgangers.

As for Megan Blackwood, no one has seen or heard from the girl since she appeared on the news, bitten by a vampire by the look-alike Alucard four days ago. Her parents remain worried and scared for their daughter, their public appeal for her safe return seen by half the country. The unsettling part of the entire thing was that the media and public were eating up the stories like an uncontrollable drug addiction. It was near impossible to stop the footage, streamed on nearly every possible outlet all over the world.

In less than twenty-four hours, Alucard became public enemy numero uno.

"This is getting out of hand," Walden Blackensfield proclaimed as he mopped at his brow in his exasperation with his handy blue handkerchief. "Why haven't you put a stop to this yet, Integra?"

"And what is the meaning of ordering a press conference? What exactly do you plan to tell them, Sir Hellsing? We are already up to here…" Mr. Morgan held a pudgy freckled hand above his head of wavy ginger hair, "…in hot water. Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood want answers about their missing daughter."

While being bombarded by heated questions, Integra sat with her elbows on the table, hands at her chin while a cigar smoldered away between her white-gloved fingers. "And we shall give them answers. Gentlemen, I assure you we are working night and day to locate the culprits behind those videos. I have already given you a rundown of all the events leading up until now. As for the press conference, I'm hoping you will aid me in the revelation of an anti-freak squad supported by the government. In light of the current public attack, I believe we owe Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood this kind of response. I have Lilith here who has written up a statement in the chance we can all agree."

Lilith, who was standing behind Integra's chair, nodded her tidy redhead politely holding up the black leather folder in her hands. The men in the room glanced over at the smartly dressed no-nonsense looking woman.

"You must be joking," Sir Hugh Irons Islands muttered stiffly.

"I assure you this is no joke. Forget about Hellsing as an organization for a moment and picture a government-run squad of men and women swearing duty to protect England from paranormal monsters. Imagine an elite squad no longer hiding behind the shadows of bureaucracy. It is time we give the public such an organization… the world needs it. The lone hunters out there need to know that with structured teamwork we will hunt these freaks down and protect our people. Isn't that what our government should be doing?"

"That's insane! Integra Hellsing, you've lost your bloody mind!" Mr. Morgan shouted, turning red in the face, which matched the colour of his hair and moustache.

Integra remained eerily calm. "No, it is you that has lost your nerve, your will to fight. As long as I'm alive I will continue to fight. The public has no one to lead them in their fight against monsters and someone needs to enter the front lines. I will do it. I will head this anti-freak squad myself. We need to protect the innocent citizens from becoming pawns to ruthless gangs and organizations that have little interest in hunting monsters and more interest in gathering muscle and profits for their own criminal activities."

"That might be true, but it will make you vulnerable." Alastair Kershaw warned. "You shouldn't run so heedlessly into battle. Sometimes those fighters are simply used as cannon fodder."

Integra narrowed her good eye at the blond-haired man, and for a moment wondered if any of these men were traitorous bastards behind the events unfolding. It was so hard to trust anyone these days. "Are you implying that I will fall into a puddle and drown like a lemming, Mr. Kershaw? I've been running a full force of men and women for nearly thirty-seven years, I know exactly what I'm doing. I will even use some of my men to safely train willing individuals how to properly dispose of a freak and how they might protect themselves—I have already been granted permission by His Majesty himself."

"King Charles! You spoke with him?"

The blonde Hellsing leader glanced over at Mr. Penwood who just blurted that out. "Yes, the King himself believes it is time to educate our citizens on the subject of the paranormal, it is no longer a topic that we can ignore. Gentlemen, the Knights of the Round are still protected, along with the Hellsing Organization."

Sir Hugh Irons scoffed and sat back in his chair with a haughty look. "I really hate to point this out at the hazard of sounding crass, Sir Integra, but you are gracing fifty years of age. Why take all this on now? Wouldn't you rather retire in twenty years or so and enjoy the rest that you deserve?"

"As I said, I will fight while I still breathe—do not bury me so quickly, Hugh." Integra offered arrogantly. She severely extinguished her cigar in the ashtray amongst the other squashed out cigars. "Must I remind you all the basic reason for a secret society? Societies or organizations such as Hellsing for example existed in the past to preserve knowledge and allowed us to work in ways behind the power of the church. In those dark times, the church ruled everything, but it is not that way anymore. We will not be placing Galileo under house arrest simply because he claimed the Earth revolved around the sun."

"Again you make a valid point, Integra. However, giving the public an anti-freak force might backfire on them and us. You've said so yourself that, the best line of defense is to fight monsters with more powerful monsters," Gregory Penwood tried to reason. "What if it is more than we can handle?"

"And for those types of situations we still have the Hellsing Organization. Look, in these times of advancing technology you know better than I do that we cannot really keep societies like ours a secret forever, so why not divert that attention away from us and place it on something tangible like a sector completely devoted to protecting the public. We will use the public to help us in our removal of violent monsters. The people dislike rich secret organizations run by money, they know there is a much higher percentage for corruption on our part and it's time we gave the people a reason to stand with us, not against us. We need to gain the support of our people. Think of this anti-freak squad as a political tactic for now."

"She's right," Robert Walsh finally chimed in and offered, looking over his glasses, "England isn't in the dark ages anymore. Those times are long past us. With all that has happened in the last thirty years the people are crying out for a revolution. I don't want it to come to that, but it will, if we don't start doing something."

"Exactly," Integra agreed, giving Rob a thankful nod. "The church is becoming more powerful again and not necessarily for the right reasons, there is an infection among them at the moment and I suspect it has something to do with this shadow Eye organization, who, by the way, has managed to stay secret and keep completely hidden from us. If the church keeps gaining these Holy Hunter supporters, they could become a militia that will eventually clash with us, and I will not stand here and wait for them to build their strength as Millennium did. I will do whatever it takes to put a stop to them."

The men around the table clearly stiffened at the mention of that Nazi group.

Sir Robert Walsh quietly puffed on his cigarette, the smoke swirling around his wrinkled old face and red beret for a moment before saying. "I agree with you that we need to fund this new organization seeing as we need one right now, not fifty years from now—right now. But I don't believe Integra should be manning this new anti-freak squad, I think Mr. Penwood should do it. He's the Vice Admiral of the Royal Navy. Why, this is a perfect position for him and it will boost the morale of our citizens and their government. If you run this sort of squad, Integra, you will eventually have to answer for Hellsing and of your connections and of the two vampires in your service. I do not think it will work out in your favour or ours. It's time the government steps up to work alongside Hellsing."

Gregory Penwood was making a strange squeaky sound as he pointed to himself. "W-what me…?"

"Yes, you, Penwood, you have your father's ferocious blood coursing through your veins, blood of a noble leader. This new squad could simply be a branch of the military—it will only be used when it is needed and right now, it is needed. At least until this mess is smoothed over with that… that animal on the loose killing those young women," Mr. Walsh claimed with despair and a heavy sigh.

Mr. Penwood seemed to think it all over begrudgingly.

"I believe that is a splendid idea, Robert," Integra agreed wholeheartedly. "He can take care of the press conference, too. I didn't imagine we would be focusing on a government-run freak squad until Hellsing was finished but the circumstance does not permit it. Tell me is the annual London Opera Ball still on tomorrow night?"

Sir Irons would have rolled his eyes at her if he weren't so proper. "Why of course, Integra. This horrid situation will not hamper the festivities. It's tradition and many influential people will be attending, you must come and show your support. I believe I mentioned this to you on the phone a couple of days ago," he said raising one dubious light-coloured brow at her.

"I'll be bringing my young Juliet who is debuting this year," Mr. Morgan tossed in proudly. "My wife and daughter always look forward to this ball. So much so, I fear they won't shut up about it." He laughed and a few others chuckled along with him, nodding with understanding about their own daughters or wives that they will be bringing along with them, too.

Integra contained her groan. She hated opera, balls, and all the pompous rigmarole that went along with it. It was hard to believe such traditions still took place in England. Although, she did have a noble duty to attend these functions and she would do so like a proper English woman. "Then I will see you all there but do not be surprised if there are protesters dampening the evening."

"Psh! We get them every year and this year won't be any different," assured Mr. Morgan with his chin held high. "Now can we get back to the topics at hand? I have other important meetings on my itinerary today and it seems like a lot more with this whole anti-freak unit we're considering doling out."

"Right then, so what of your vampires, Integra? What does Alucard have to say for himself?" Mr. Blackensfield wondered, asking the elusive question everyone else was too hesitant to ask. "This is the second time he's gotten his fifteen minutes… no one here wants to remember what he did the first time in Rio de Janeiro. I am beginning to doubt the rigidity in which you hold their leash. You claim that those videos are falsified and untrue. You claim that the vampire in them is not Alucard. How can you be so sure?"

The impatient faces of the other board members all stared at her accusingly. All except Rob Walsh who sat back in his chair with a slouch and puffed on his cigarette attached to an ornate tortoise shell holder. It appeared as if he was tired of listening to this room of buffoons, too.

"I know those vampires' that is how I know," she replied impatiently. "They are not a threat. I have already explained that there is someone out there working against us. Their goal, however, remains a mystery."

"I think you've become too fond of Seras and Alucard, Integra. I think you forget that they are monsters and not people. You forget that they are weapons." Mr. Kershaw reminded her. "Alucard was gone for thirty years and in that time he could have changed directives. He could be fooling you into believing he isn't the vampire killing those young women. Also, of course his fledgling is going to support him. She thrives off of blood, too."

"He's a crafty son of a bitch," Dagwood Morgan said, spittle flying past his lips. "I know the history and who's to say he's not reverted to his old ways? I think you ought to lock them up until this issue blows over or maybe even for good. Perhaps it's as your father thought, Integra, those monsters are far too strong for a mere human to control."

A few others around the table murmured in agreement.

Integra was gnashing her teeth together in frustration at this point. She had heard enough, she stood up and said with a certain tone. "Granted, if the killings do not stop then I will lock both Alucard and Seras up in the dungeon and seal them away. There they will desiccate and mummify and be a threat to no one… this I promise you."

Everyone around the table gasped, not expecting her to agree. They all began to murmur at once until Integra slapped one hand flat on the table surface and leaned in.

"But gentlemen," she continued, the look in her good eye becoming cold and hard. "Do not say that I didn't warn you that sealing them away is a very unwise thing to do, especially for the future of the Hellsing Organization."

"How can we believe you will follow through on such a promise?" Mr. Penwood wondered nervously when Integra shot a glare at him. "That is, should that sort of action be n-necessary…"

Integra roared. "Because I give you my word!"


Hellsing Manor, 1:24 p.m.

When they got back from the meeting and press conference, Lilith ran after Integra with an umbrella as the other woman headed to the gun range situated behind the manor on the Hellsing training grounds. The outside was misty and dark due the gloomy, rainy day and overcast sky, but that did not last long when they entered the large building designed for firearm training. Inside the well-lit space, a few people in military dress were here sharpening their skills along the numerous posts, the sound of assault rifles and handguns battering their eardrums.

Commander Lister was here as well trying out a new line of M4-styled rifles customised to shell out .223 caliber blessed silver ammunition with a carbine able to equip modified silver fragment grenades from the mountable launcher. When another member of the Hellsing Special Forces tapped him on the shoulder to bring his attention to the director standing nearby, he looked over and lowered his rifle immediately.

"Oh, good day, Sir Integra," he said pleasantly and like dominos the half dozen other personnel in the place stopped shooting to look over at the woman in charge of Hellsing and her personal assistant Ms. Medrea, who was shaking out her black umbrella.

A few of them nodded in recognition and Integra acknowledged them return with a look and a nod.

"Good afternoon, Commander Lister… everyone, please… carry on as usual," Integra insisted as she headed to the back area in a separate room closed off to the sounds of gunfire to obtain a pair of noise-cancelling headphones for herself and to hang up her long beige trench coat.

Lilith followed Integra into the supply room, designated to hang up jackets or to collect equipment for shooting. "Sir, you haven't spoken a word since we returned from that meeting. Is there anything I can do to put your mind at ease before I head over to intelligence? Marvin has been working diligently to locate whoever sent the news stations those videos and the position seems centred around East London, I want to take a look at their discoveries and get a report for you. Oh, and that item you ordered from the Hellsing Arms Industrials department has arrived, I just got a text about it a moment ago. If you like, I can go and pick it up for you?" The assistant offered, trying to give the other woman some good news. She watched as Integra collected a few magazines for her Sig Sauer P229 semi-automatic handgun. "Shall I call for Mr. Alucard or Ms. Victoria? Perhaps you'd rather speak with them."

"That's not necessary, if they are resting then let them rest." She slid two extra magazines into the pocket of her suit jacket. "I don't want to bother them with all this political bullshit at the moment. Although, I am pleased to hear about the special item arriving. I owe Alucard a huge apology and this should cheer him up, but that can wait for the moment. Right now, I really need a moment to collect my thoughts. I need a moment."

Integra found herself thinking about today's meeting with a sigh.

"Are you upset about having to attend that opera function?" Ms. Medrea wondered if that was what was really bothering her. "I notice how you heave a sigh each time that topic comes up."

At that, Integra laughed sourly. "Have I made it that obvious? I will admit I am not looking forward to this year's ball. I cannot really put my finger on it but something about tomorrow night makes me uneasy. I hate opera."

This time Lilith chuckled. "Opera kind of sucks, huh?"

"I prefer the sound of a good symphony or some music from the Jazz Age over opera." Integra shared.

"Oh! I love the music from the 1920's. It's such a classy sound and a classy era." The assistant's green eyes held a hint of mischief as she continued. "And will you be bringing Mr. Alucard with you? I wonder if he knows how to dance, you might enjoy the ball more if you dance, sir. It'll be Friday night and no one should be home on a Friday evening."

The Hellsing director scoffed. "I assure you he can dance better than anyone attending, but I'm only bringing him as a body guard. I don't trust anyone else."

Lilith hid a knowing smirk. "Of course, just as a body guard."

Integra slammed the cartridge back into her firearm after checking the number of rounds left in it and flashed a look at her assistant for her cheeky remark. She wasn't in the mood to discuss Alucard with Lilith or anyone else for that matter. She changed the topic. "Thanks again for having that press package ready and having something for Penwood to address today about the anti-freak squad, I know it was a lot of work and you did really well to prepare it with such short notice." She looked over at the woman who was a head shorter than she was who was always dressed so posh and proficient. Integra admired Lilith's dark slacks and black blazer with a dark pink blouse underneath it.

Suddenly Integra felt urged to ask, "Do you know why I fight so hard to rid the world of monsters?"

For a moment, the type of question took Lilith aback. "I suppose I have no idea other than the obvious which is making the world a safer place or because of your family's reputation… if not, then why do you do it?" A part of her was literally dying to know.

"I do it to protect the families of this country," Integra explained outright. "I want to see children with both their parents grow with each other, to experience the milestones of life that I did not get to share with my own family for very long. No one should lose that because of monsters."

Ms. Medrea was unable to reply for a moment, her mouth slack with astonishment. "Right, you would have lost all your family by the age of twelve, correct? I read that in the history of Hellsing Organization manual I read prior to working here."

"That's right, except for a variety of relations scattered about Great Britain," Integra replied and turned to look directly at the other woman. "I know you understand what it feels like to lose your parents and I can't claim to have lost mine to monsters but my family was so wrapped up in this organization that our time together felt really short. I don't remember much of my mother who died when I was three. Then of course, I did have an uncle who tried to kill me for the family title and leadership of this organization—a human monster. To think he was a traitor to the Hellsing name still burns me up inside."

Lilith never heard Integra speak this way before and it left her feeling tentative. "Why… why are you sharing this information with me, sir? I mean I'm honoured that you feel comfortable enough to share it with me, but I don't know how to reply."

Integra scoffed bitterly at her memories as she left the supply room and walked over an empty range. Lilith followed behind. She took a shooters stance; feet spread apart, arms out before her holding the gun with both hands. "I apologise for dumping all of that on you. There is no need to say anything. I just needed to say it."

Lilith waved a neatly manicured hand regretfully even if Integra couldn't see it. She quickly tucked the umbrella under her arm, held her palms over her ears and watched the tall blonde fire a couple of shots with practiced skill, all six bullets going straight through the target's paper heart. It seemed even wearing an eye patch did not hinder Integra's aim.

When the other woman was finished firing Lilith said, "Oh no, don't apologise, sir. I've been terribly rude… family is very important and so is protecting them. Sometimes one's love for their family blinds and muddles the truth. Sometimes… it can lead you down an uncertain path."

Furrowing her brows, Integra lowered her gun a fraction. "Oh? Are you talking about—"

Just then, an insistent buzzing came from Integra's left inside pocket and she placed her gun into her left hand and extracted the sleek black phone with her right. The screen showed the call was coming from the main house.

Judy's pleasant voice trilled into Integra's ear when she answered it. "Afternoon, Sir Integra, sorry to bother you, but there are some Iscariot folk here asking to speak to you. Shall I lead them to your office or keep 'em in the lobby?"

"Iscariots! What the hell is Section 13 doing here?" Integra spat out. "What do they want now? They were just here a few weeks ago." Of course, Integra had a pretty good idea about why they were here but it still felt better to complain about it.

Lilith's eyes widened. "The Iscariots…? As in Judas Iscariot, the betrayer?"

Waving her hand at Lilith to remain silent, Integra became visibly annoyed as she growled into the phone. "Oh, just tell them I'll be there to see them in a moment. Like hell are they allowed to step foot in my office. I will not give them such a privilege. Keep them in the lobby. Oh! And no tea." She pushed a button to hang up the phone and said under her breath. "I refuse to serve those people."

"Sounds like they have a habit of just showing up?" Lilith commented.

"You have no idea…" Integra muttered. "Well, it looks like my time here has been cut short." She did not sound pleased about that. There was something soothing about the gun range, a great place to blow off some steam and now she was being denied that comfort for a couple of Iscariots. Blasphemy! "Let's go before they find themselves conveniently in some part of the manor I would rather them not be. Nosey bunch, last time they just wandered the place as if they owned it. Bastards."

"Yes, sir," Lilith replied quietly and waited while Integra hung up her headphones and collected her coat. Then they walked back to the manor while Lilith sheltered them both with her umbrella again. When they reached the back entrance, they found Judy waiting for them anxiously.

"May I take your coat, Sir Integra?" she asked.

"No thank you, Judy. Are they still in the lobby?"

The personal maid nodded. "Yes, they are where I left them."

"Let's go," Integra said to Lilith.

Lilith hesitated and claimed, "I'll meet you in the lobby but I need to grab something first."

Integra watched the red-haired woman walk off and with a shrug, proceeded to the lobby on her own, straightening her suit jacket and smoothing her hand over the red cravat at her neck. She ruffled her beige trench coat of raindrops that the umbrella failed to keep dry in her agitation. These Vatican puppet masters, they were sure to get under her skin with their condescending holier-than-thou attitudes. Integra inhaled deeply. Her idea of meeting these people was about as much fun as visiting a dentist for a tooth extraction.


Bishop Makube, leader of Section 13, glanced around the grand space as he stood on a vast ornate rug, looking at the surroundings with his hands clasped behind his back. He noted the wooden wainscoting on the walls and the curved stairway leading up to the second floor and landing, paintings and family crests decorating the entire space. Above his head a giant crystal chandelier hung like a beautiful glittering threat, which could easily crush him to death should it fall on him.

He sniffed with disdain at the thought.

Once again, he was in this miserable country, in the lobby of this miserable mansion, waiting for its miserable tenant to appear. Once again, there was no show of hospitality with a decent cup of tea or a snack, was it really too much to ask for?

"Vhere is vat woman?" Heinkel Wolfe muttered around the bandages on his face, blonde hair scattered across most of his eyes, voice raspy and speech distorted.

Makube gave a dramatic sigh and turned to look slothfully at his fellow Iscariot, his epicene second in command. He or she, as some would say, was glaring at him impatiently. It didn't bother him that Heinkel was a transsexual, her loyalty rest heavily with the Vatican and she was a powerful weapon in her own right. Heinkel was tall and thin, without the curves of a woman but lankier like that of a man. Yet, Wolfe's face was effeminate, less so now with those bandages she persists on wearing all these years after being shot in the face by a bullet. However, the eyes were still a soft ocean blue and they always made Makube think of a woman, therefore he mentally referred to Heinkel as a female.

"As usual they are playing the waiting game with us, but we still must do our part and find out what they know, or… are willing to share." The words rolled off his tongue with his rich Italian accent.

"I really vish vee could crush this organization once and for all. Filthy Protestant dogs…"

"Well, you'll really need to come up with a good plan if you wish to destroy this place but I fear you'll have to go through me first, Mr. Wolfe."

Heinkel sneered, recognising that voice, and scoffed as he spotted Seras Victoria on the second floor landing at the top of the stairs looking arrogantly down at him. He watched her launch herself nimbly over the railing with one hand and land soundly on her booted feet a few yards away with the ease of a cat. She carried her trusty Harkonnen and readied it on her shoulder, the muzzle aimed at him, just in case.

"What's the matter did all those bandages soak into your brain and make you weak in the head or do you think it turned you into a dickless man freak?" Seras insulted, sounding a lot more vulgar than usual. She couldn't stop herself there was just something about this particular Iscariot that brought out the worst side of her.

Before Makube could stop Heinkel, his comrade removed a pistol from under his long priestly, high-collared jacket and without warning took a shot at Seras. Even the draculina did not see that coming and the bullet grazed her newly formed left arm and blood spattered behind her on to the wall.

"You bitch!" Heinkel shouted. "I dare you to come closer and say that—I'll put a bullet between your eyes after I knock out your teeth!"

"Heinkel! Stop it!" urged Bishop Makube. He looked utterly stunned to witness such hostility coming from his second command. "This isn't the time or the place, what's come over you? Do not let her distract you from our righteous mission."

Seras's eyes were glowing brighter red, brows furrowed angrily as she stared the Catholic jerk down. All she could think about was kicking his ass so badly that the anticipation surged throughout her entire being like waves of rippling heat. With blood dripping down her arm and black shadows trailing from the wound, she began to march over with the sole intent on destroying Heinkel. She was going to tear his limbs from his body like roast chicken. That was… until a wall of red suddenly blocked her path.

"Master!" Seras exclaimed, halting in her step. She growled at the interruption.

Integra dashed into the room from a hallway on the other side of the staircase, urged to run to the lobby after she heard the gunshot. "What in blazes is going on in here?" she demanded at full volume. At first glance, she thought Alucard was the one who started the trouble but evidently, he was the one preventing it. The real troublemakers, she noticed, were a bleeding Seras and that hideous Iscariot Heinkel Wolfe who currently held a pistol aimed at her.

"How very crusade-like of you, entering a person's home and shooting at the inhabitants dwelling inside. Do you deem yourself to have such supremacy over everyone else, Catholics?" Alucard accused and slipped a hand inside his red duster, pulling out the Casull. He placed the barrel of the gun across his left arm, keeping sure aim on Heinkel Wolfe's mangled head. "Again, some things never change with you people."

Seras lowered her cannon and Heinkel lowered his gun but they still glared hatefully at one another.

Bishop Makube regained his composure and settled his droopy cinnamon-coloured eyes on the massive vampire king in his large red fedora and orange sunglasses. He made a move to stand in front of Heinkel to prevent her from making any more stupid moves.

"With all due respect, we didn't come here to start a fight. The female nosferatu clearly shows distain towards my associate, perhaps she should be taught proper manners." Makube offered in such a pleasant way that it sounded nauseating.

"Cut the crap, Papist," Integra snapped at the dark-haired man with a long scar that went from his forehead, over his eye and down his cheek on the right side of his face. "What the hell do you want? Make it quick and get the hell out of my house. I feel no sympathy towards Section 13 and nor do I care to associate with any of you."

"As always it's a pleasure to see you again, too, Integra Hellsing." Makube said his sarcasm palpable. "We are here on a special mission for his Holiness, but we are also here to look into some suspicious murders being conducted by a vampire, who we can't help but notice, looks just like the Hellsing pet vampire, Alucard."

"My master did not do those things!" Seras blurted out from behind her sire, head poking out from his right elbow.

"Ven you are just as stupid as you are vlind," Heinkel retort and stepped to the left side of the bishop, unblocking his path so he could face his opponents again. He glared at the old nosferatu, "What do you have to say for yourself, you foul demon?"

"I assume you are speaking to me," Alucard droned. He lowered his left arm and returned the Casull to the recesses of his long red coat. "I really can't imagine what I can say, you will believe only what you want to hear."

"My vampire does not answer to the likes of you—you're not even within your jurisdiction." Integra reminded. "This is England's business and I assure you we are working on finding the offender behind those attacks. Now, if you have nothing constructive to say to us Bishop Makube then you know where to find the exit." She made no move to come closer into the room and stood her ground at the foot of the staircase.

With a lopsided grin and one lifted eyebrow, Alucard appeared smug after Integra regarded him as her vampire. "Is this really all you came for?" He wondered of the two Iscariots. "This meeting seems pointless, your racket woke me up and I'm getting rather tired of being disturbed in the middle of the day."

"So sorry we—" Heinkel began to taunt but was cut off by Bishop Makube, who held out his arm in front of him.

"If you are all done with your endless prattle then I could, perhaps, enlighten you with a small amount of information pertaining to a certain member of the clergy currently suspected of breeding vampires for some ritualistic sport." Makube threw them a bone and smirked internally when he noticed their eyes widened with his revelation. "But since you insist on treating us with this hostility, I can't see how we can continue this conversation in a more civil manner. I do apologise for my associate's behaviour he has made this reunion, so far, very… uncomfortable."

Alucard's face broke out into a diabolical grin. "So you are not as dumb as you look," he quipped.

Makube sniffed indifferently.

At last, Integra wandered over and stood next to Alucard. "What do you know about that ritual?" she asked Vatican Section XIII.

Makube chuckled softly at how easily he garnered her attention. "Ah, then you see that I am not simply here to patronise you and your humble monster-hunting organization. As I said, we are here on a mission for his Holiness. I hate to inform but we are rightfully within our jurisdiction considering we suspect the man involved with breeding vampires, happens to be a Catholic bishop overseeing a diocese of Roman Catholic churches in London."

"What…?" Seras blasted.

"Who is this bishop?" Integra inquired. She didn't care that she sounded so demanding.

"His name is Winmore Crane," Makube enlightened, holding out his hands as he spoke. "Our suspicions grew when we discovered—by means that I should not bother to go into details about—an offshore bank account with an alias name. It contains an incredible sum and Bishop Crane has no means to show how he accumulated such funds. Not only do we discover that he is gaining wealth by unknown methods we also discover he may be breeding vampires for some horrific ritual, but for now, it is only hearsay. Of all the congregations in London, his is the largest with the most followers, which is remarkable and the church begins to take notice of such progressions. Naturally it draws the attention of the Vatican, especially with all these Holy Hunter cults cropping up all over London and theirs being the largest and the most powerful. We are suspicious that Winmore may also be working with an illegal organization and that part of his profits comes from exploiting his followers with the help of someone more powerful than him. For now we have only this piece of evidence, a booklet given to exclusive members of these Holy Hunters containing the purpose of their cult and methods for destroying monsters."

The Vatican bishop reached into his robes and pulled out a small book in which he handed to Integra. Seras, Alucard and Integra eyed the small brown leather booklet with the embossed image of the Evil Eye on the front.

The No Life King grunted, "Seems like Bishop Crane's business is booming."

Integra drew her fingers across the eye on the front of the small, leather bound book. She said, "Either Winmore is working alone or with the same organization using this Eye symbol that we believe is behind the strange events unfolding, however, we have not been able to find out who is controlling it. Whoever they are, they know what they are doing and have been doing it for a long time. None of my resources has been able to pinpoint anyone. It's almost like they don't exist. I believe they took out one of their own men who was a member of The Hunters participating in something they call The Sacrifice."

"Yes, and we believe the leader of this sacrifice ritual is Bishop Winmore Crane, the organiser and creator behind this group of Holy Hunters. Perhaps we can co-operate long enough to put an end to his sacrilegious exploits and find out where he is making vampires used for their deceptive ritual," Makube said to Integra, his offer genuine. He held out his hand in a peace offering.

Integra almost hissed at the hand being held out to her, but stop herself. Now was not the time to display her hatred towards Section XIII, not when they were offering to work together to put a stop to this evil cult. She hated to admit, but they could be useful—even if it was a gamble. "Then you must keep us informed if you discover who Winmore Crane is working with… I want the name of the person in charge of this Evil Eye organization. I want to know what they hope to achieve."

Makube produced a slick smile. "Why yes of course, to think there is an organization out there with the power to make Alucard the most wanted vampire again over a century later… is rather impressive."

Integra scoffed, and with a twisted feeling in her gut, reached out and shook Makube's gloved hand.

The Vatican bishop held Integra's slender hand longer than Alucard could tolerate. The vampire king produced a low rumble deep in his throat, his eyes narrowing dangerously at the priest. Makube raised his brown eyes to the tall vampire and smiled, letting go of Integra's hand. "The way you defend your human master has not changed, I see. I have only heard of your special devotion to her but now I understand this virtue for myself. Enchanting."

"And all I see is that the apple does not fall far from the tree," Alucard retort, his thoughts going to Enrico Maxwell, the last foolish leader of the Vatican misfits.

"Yes, well, we have discussed all that we can for the moment, you may keep that book. If anything should change, be sure to contact me. You have my number." Suddenly Makube's eyes lit up and widened. "Oh yes, I almost forgot. The girls, whom this look-alike vampire attacked, all attended one of Bishop Crane's many churches within his district. They were all devout Catholics."

Integra's lips parted with surprise.

"Does that mean my Master's doppelganger works for Bishop Crane?" Seras asked, still keeping a close eye on Wolfe. "How do we know it's not one of your people behind this?"

Heinkel replied, "Don't talk stuvid. Why vould any of our people do such a ving?"

Seras scoffed. "Why wouldn't they?"

"I'm sure the truth will soon reveal itself," Makube declared with an apathetic shrug. "Until we meet again, Integra Hellsing, Seras Victoria and, of course, the great Alucard."

The three of them watched the Iscariots leave the manor and Seras was the first to speak up when they closed the door behind them. "Those good for nothing jerk faces… what makes them think they're so great?"

"The weight of their temerity will forever make them bottom feeders. However, occasionally they prove to be useful, and today is one of those days. This temporary peace treaty is a precarious one at best." Integra said and turned away from the door to face the draculina. She wore a look of deep concern. "Are you alright, Seras?" she asked softly and frowned, "The nerve of that Iscariot dog!"

"I'm fine." Seras looked a bit sheepish. "Well, I might have provoked him a little."

"Forget about it. Let's go to my office, there are a few things I'd like to discuss with both you and Alucard in regards to this new information." Integra told them and wandered away, motioning them to follow her with a hand.

"I'd really rather go back to sleep," Alucard claimed, even though he followed the two blonde women down a corridor.

"Just so you know I won't be sending you on the mission I have planned for Seras so you can go back to sleep after we discuss a few things in my office. Besides, there is something I want to give to you," Integra told him. "I'll have Marvin or Lilith, bring it over right away." She wondered where Lilith went anyways.

"Oh?" sounded Alucard.

Integra wore a wry smile. "It's a surprise."

"What kind of surprise?" Seras wondered like a child in front of the Christmas tree.

"It's not a surprise if she tells you," Alucard pointed out and eyed the wound on Seras's arm. It was only a graze just above the elbow, but it left a bloody mess all over her forearm. "How's your arm? Your regeneration is slow."

"I know, but I think I managed to close the wound with what you taught me about regeneration," she said even though there were still black shadows trailing from her forearm like steam. "It stopped bleeding. Grr! I still can't believe that punk shot at me!"

"You should have shot him first."

"Not in my house, Alucard!" Integra hollered.

"Oh, you're no fun."

From the second floor landing, Lilith watched as everyone cleared out of the lobby before descending the stairs. She looked around carefully and when the coast was clear, she pulled out a small plastic zipper bag from her black blazer pocket and wandered over to the blood spatter on the wall.

"This is perfect," she murmured to herself. "I have much to thank the Vatican for."

She could not believe her luck as she turned the bag inside out and collected Seras's blood from the wall. Then she inverted the bag back to normal and removed all the air before sealing it up, slipping the prize back into her pocket.


A/N: There's a lot of unspoken things going on in here and for once the Vatican proves to be useful hehe. The whole transexual thing with Heinkel comes from the Kouta Hirano Hellsing Guidebook interview I mentioned in the last chapter. He states in the interview that Heinkel is 'hermaphroditism' not a woman or a man, but I went with transexual because I didn't want to get into Wolfe's physical makeup. So I sometimes refer to him as a her or a he. Kouta is such a twisted puppy and I love it! lol! I hope you enjoy the chapter! I hope to update sooner but as usual I'm up to my elbows in chocolate XD! Literally lol! Work consumes my life...

Next. Chapter 12: The Last Dance. Integra is obligated to attend an opera ball and she brings Alucard as her escort.

Reviewers:

Palomixta: Yay! I'm glad you enjoyed the last chapter! Always a pleasure! Many thanks my dear.

Rubio2099: You make a great point about how truly sad it is that Alucard had to experience the doubt and mistrust. I imagine it would be difficult for everyone re-adjusting with his return. It's so interesting to see that pointed out. YAY! I'm glad you had fun with the moustache returning HA! I did too! Hmm... yes, Integra. What will she do? Thanks so much for reading wonderful person!

Eiserne: Teehee! Oh, your comments truly make my day! You're too cute. Chocolate... mmm, yesh! Romanian prince form indeed. I'm glad I could offer you some reprieve from your own diligent writing. I totally understand how it can consume your life lol! Nevermind working XD! Always a pleasure to read your thoughts!

Sarah Rose 29: Haha! I'm glad you enjoyed the gun spirit reference. I made another sorta reference in Chapter 12. I thoroughly believe Alucard is a bit of a movie buff. I mean, what else do old vampires do when they are bored... they watch stuff XD! Thanks hun!

Gray-Chan Fallen: Always a pleasure my friend! Most of the stuff I write contains a lot of humour... it comes naturally lol! I find ways to inject it everywhere. I love you for commenting on the panties! yesh! I was hoping someone got a kick out that. It was just the last damn thing you expected him to pull from his pocket, right? lulz! Your comments are inspiring!

Alexis: I know, right? Having Alucard say something like 'It was just one of those stories that kind of stays with you' is a riot. Exactly, because Hellsing stayed with us fans lol! Oh yes. Death Note! I own everything Death Note. I'm so happy you enjoyed the last chapter! Thanks so much for your comments.

idevourbooks: You have such wonderful insightful comments. Yay! You're catching up. Truly, no rush, just enjoy the ride. As for the writing... I agree I'm always nervous about sharing my work with everyone. I love writing the story so much and I want to share the experience with others and hope they, too, enjoy it, but you just never know. You just have to leap sometimes. You are a kindred soul lovely person! Many thank yous! *squishes*

AmericanWildDog: Exactly! You just never know when it comes to Alucard. I'm so happy you enjoyed the chapter hun! It's always a pleasure to read your comments!