Hellsing is owned by others.


"I hope the sole is to your liking." A surprise luncheon invitation finds Integra sitting at the large round table of a Surrey mansion. Eric Dantes' baritone swells to the high-ceilings and patterned walls.

"It's delicious."

Eric smiles and leans toward his guest. "Excellent, Sir Hellsing, I propose we toast to new acquaintances."

She nods, wondering when she became so agreeable. "Aye, to acquaintances." Why did I agree to this? She quirks an eyebrow at the man before her and raises her glass.

"I am fortunate indeed to have such a beautiful and intelligent woman as my partner."

Integra blanches and gulps a mouthful of the white burgundy. She puts her glass down squarely. "Mr. Dantes, I'd like to discuss some terms of this mission." Her voice rings out, the only sound in the room, aside from the crackling fire.

One corner of Dantes' lips curl up, and he motions her to begin.

She continues, "for instance, I am not greatly inclined to include specific members of my organization on this job, when I see little evidence they are needed."

Dantes nods, considering her statement. "Sir Hellsing, I understand your reservations. Please know, I will make my intent clear as to why I requested your organization's services, I'm sure you understand it's only a matter of time before my home appears a less tranquil picture."

"Naturally."

"Additionally, I will provide ample funding to receive the full protection of your services, all up front if necessary. Money is no object to me. "

She is unmoved.

"I understand you wish to keep your top agents close at hand, especially when holding a position such as yours. However, given the current peace surrounding your home and most of the countryside, there is no doubt that Alucard's constant proximity to you at this point is excessive. I do have need of him here. However if you cannot be without his protection, it is my wish you would stay here as long as you'd like," his smile is pearly in the dappled sunlight.

She hisses a sharp intake of breath. "Thank you Mr. Dantes, but I will be the judge of my own person."

Dantes shoulders rise with his chuckle.

"By no means did I imply that you are unable to take care of yourself. You are a most capable and exquisite woman."

One hand on the table, she feels for her cross pendant. "Does your tongue seek a customer, Mr. Dantes?" A faint blush creeps into her cheeks when she feels his palm over her hand.

"I am nothing if not honest Miss Hellsing," he smiles.

Integra removes her hand and folds her long-stemmed fingers under her chin. "Michard mentioned using agents of the Vatican if we refused your offer. What is your connection to Enrico Maxwell, Mr. Dantes?"

Distaste flashes over his features, and Eric offers open palms in supplication. "Please, call me Eric, and happily none. As your organization is the best at what you do, I also have access to some of the finest services money can offer." He looks down, " please forgive me if it offends your sensibilities."

"No," she shakes her head. "I am relieved you are at least thorough."

"Sir Hellsing, it is no secret there is little love lost between you and Enrico Maxwell."

She chuckles meeting his smile with one of her own. "So you used my organization's obvious dissonance with that pig Maxwell to motivate us to your cause? Very underhanded of you Mr. Dantes."

His jaw hardens. "Only the finest."

She considers him a moment and fishes a cigar from her breast pocket.

"Allow me," he produces a gold lighter.

Integra inhales deeply and relaxes into the warmth of the cushioned chair, eyes taking in the colorful autumn afternoon. They sit in companionable silence.

"This day reminds me of one long ago." Dantes gazes across the acres of grass. "The day I came into possession of what needs such attention. Life for me before that day was much simpler."

She exhales, recalling her own life-changing day years past, not in the autumn's dappled sunshine, but in the dank and musty basement of her family's manor.

His voice slides into her thoughts, "Perhaps we have more in common than I thought, Ms. Hellsing."

I doubt it. But. I am here...

They lock eyes. She corrects him. "You may call me Integra."

His smile is small, but it touches his eyes, "...Integra." Reaching toward his guest, Dantes grasps a single grape from the bunch housed between them. He squeezes it between gloved fingers. It trembles in its thin skin.

"Integra, allow me to acquaint you with what is so valuable that only your organization's protective resources will suffice. I must insist on your absolute secrecy in what I am about to show you. I trust your reputation and you as my partner. There is no other." His fingers continue squeeze down on the gelatinous orb, until the grape bursts forth from its skin.

"Show me."