Hello readers! Thank you for staying tuned for Chapter 25. I have started my spring semster, so I will try to keep up the pace of a chapter a month. But, they might be smaller than 10,000 words simply because of time. I am still pooring my heart into this, and this chapter especially. I fill terrible that I could not expand it further but trying to do so made it feel so strained and forced. But that does mean what didn't fit in this chapter is the beginning of chapter 26. I would like to thank you all for your support in this story. Sorry about the lack luster opening in 24 and for not responding to reviews for 23, I will respond to them in this chapter as well as 24's.

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Chapter Twenty Five: Trăda Mă Bine (Betray Me Well)

Hellsing Headquarters…6 pm.

As Integra closed the book she mauled over the information. Seems that the heartless vampire had not always been so, but with so many events like that it was easy to see why he would lose it. With a gentle motion she closed the journal, setting it down on the desk before her as she stared up at the portrait of Abraham.

"Why did it matter so much to you? Why couldn't you just kill him? From what I've read and experienced…it would have been kinder." Those answers would have to wait; she had put off real work for too long for this endeavor. Pulling her coat back on Integra walked up to her office, the journal in hand. Once she was in her office again she put the journal away with the others in an empty drawer in her desk. With a deep breath she focused herself onto the work in front of her, her pen scratching against the papers with fluid practiced ease. There was a small smirk that tugged at the corners of Integra's lips as she worked through the bullshit of this paperwork. It never ceased to amaze her just how worthless most of it was. Sign here…initial here…date…cross this 't' and dot that 'i'. Wonder if Van Helsing had dealt with this much paperwork? Judging from the copious books and works down in the secret lab, it must have been more. At least that paperwork had been useful; it had actually created something of value. As her papers trickled into the out box Integra felt herself smile. Each finished report was like a small weight off her shoulders. She was too absorbed in her work to recall when her dinner had been brought in, only recalling that she had nibbled off of it during her work. With a final measured flourish she finished the last report, putting it with the others in the outgoing box. She was finally done with the mandatory work, now came social obligations. Most of the invitations were from her 'peers' in hopes she would attend some tea party or other such idiotic activity that she was supposed to enjoy. She looked over the gala invitations though, hesitating to simply decline the invitations. Would it be so bad to go more often? Just to stop the constant looks and suspicion. Giving it a few more minutes of thought she agreed to four of the galas. Pushing the call button on her desk she could hear Walter asking how he could assist her. "I need to speak with my new errand girl." There was a click as the line was connected out onto the main phone lines and the electrical signals racing through wires toward the destination.

"Hello, this is Lina speaking, who is calling?" Lina's voice was polite but it was obvious that she did not want to be on the phone.

"This is Sir Hellsing, I am attending four events and you need to go shopping for dresses and accessory items. I want to have twenty dresses to pick from; all must be evening formal wear, in colors black, blue, green or cream colored. Absolutely no reds. Have the selections ready for me by next Tuesday at the manor. Walter will be sending you my sizes and a credit card to pay for the selections. Can you repeat that back to me Miss Khayam." She was not going to risk this girl messing up such a simple set of orders.

"One second please. I need to write this down…you want twenty dresses, no red, only blacks, blues, greens, and maybe cream shades. You need accessories with the dresses, and all of it by next Tuesday at headquarters, and Walter will be giving me a card and your sizes. Is that all Sir?"

"They all must be evening formal wear Miss Khayam. Do not send me to a gala with a sundress or I will be sending you on a field mission unarmed." Integra waited for confirmation from Lina before hanging up the phone. Penning a response to Matt's letter she informed him of her plans to attend the galas, but did nothing beyond that. He would need to ask to escort her; she did not want to put too much hope in him saying yes.

Vance Home….9:17 pm

As the click came Lina sighed, looking down at her scrawled note, pinning it up on her push board so she would not forget about it. Lina was still lazing about in her bedroom, not really sleeping, but simply unable to drag herself from her room. Deep down it was because she feared that 'guilty' was written across her forehead. Just like Alucard had carved into that man's flesh. Images of it flashing through her head and she had to physically shake herself to rid herself of the image. She had listened to the boys go about their day after she woke up, not eager to interact. Her curtains were drawn so the darkness of the world outside was not visible. Able to relax slightly in her bright room surrounded by the colorful pieces or art she kept. She had the house to herself, but felt no need to wander; instead she summoned her energy to rise from the bed and go take another shower. She couldn't help it, the warm water helped wash away her discomfort. As she striped down she put her hair up, not needing to wash it again. As she adjusted the water to the right temperature Lina stretched, feeling her muscles and her bones in her skin. Bending further and further back she waited for it…crack. She let out a loud sigh as she felt the snapping and could hear the bones adjusted back into place, her spine tingling from it. She stepped into the shower, letting the warm water cascade down and sooth her, feeling it help her body relax. She slowly let her upper body drop down, her arms dangling towards her toes as she stretched. The beauty about taking multiple showers was the fact that she did not need to shave, or wash, or anything else, she could just use this one for the sensation of water on her flesh. Popping her hand out of the shower she turned on her iPod dock so she could listen to music, singing along with songs she liked. When the water started to get cold Lina turned it off, getting out and wrapping a towel around her to dry off as she debated whether or not she should bother putting her bra and panties on or simply curling up in bed naked. A tingling at the back of her neck made her choose the bra and panties, slipping into a pair of simple black panties and strapless black bra. Undoing her bun she let her hair fall around her shoulders, looking over the soft curl of it after being tying up. As a familiar tune started up from her iPod she waited for the vocals to start.

"I don't wanna to talk about the things we've gone through. Though it's hurting me now it's history. I've played all my cards, and that's what you've done too. Nothing more to say, no more ace to play." She hung up her towel and walked into her room. "The winner takes it all, the loser standing small, besides the victory, that's her destiny." Throwing on a small robe she tied it loosely. "I was in your arms, thinking I belonged there, I figured it made sense. Building me a fence, building me a home, thinking I'd be strong there. But I was a fool, playing by the rules." She wrapped her arms around herself in a hug as she leaned against her bed post, a faraway look in her eyes. "The gods may throw a dice. Their minds as cold as ice." Lina used the post to climb up on her bed, belting out her voice in the privacy of her room. "And someone way down here loses someone dear. The winner takes it all! The loser has to fall. It's simple and it's plain. Why should I complain?" Lina let herself fall back into the rumbled bedding, her heart clenching as she thought of why she sang this song so passionately. "But tell me does she kiss, like I used to kiss you? Does it feel the same when she calls your name?" There was a tone of sadness clear cut in her voice as those words left her lips. Lina's mind summoned the mental image of Dracula without her permission. "Somewhere deep inside…you must know I miss you, but what can I say? Rules must be obeyed." Rising up from her bed she crawled off, squaring her shoulders to bring her voice as loud and strong as possible. "The judges will decide. The likes of me abide. Spectators of the show, always staying low! The game is on again, a Lover or a Friend. A big thing or a small, the winner takes it all." She let her body slump as she took a breath, refilling her lungs as her motions moved from the loud hurt to a soft forgiving tone. "I don't wanna talk, if it makes you feel sad, and I understand, you've come to shake my hand. I apologize, if it makes you feel bad, seeing me so tense, no self-confidence. But you see…" Lina climbed back on her bed, taking in the deep breaths to sing these last two lines with heart. "The winner takes it all!" As she drew in for her next breath she was suddenly silenced as a set of firm, slightly chapped lips came crashing down on hers, a tongue thrusting into her mouth and sending Lina into a panic, her eyes shut as she struggled, not even taking time to see who was suddenly tasting her mouth. Her music was turned off, and all she could hear was her own struggles and the soft sounds that drifted up from the streets below. Her window was open! She pushed against whoever was kissing her, wincing as she felt cold hard flesh under soft fabric. The lips and tongue pulled back, Lina falling to her knees on her bed as she caught her breath. When she had gathered enough air and coherence she looked up, fully ready to chew Alucard out for taking such liberties with her. There was no one there. She pulled her short robe around her tighter, wishing that it covered more than the first few inches of her thighs. "Okay…very funny Alucard. You got me. Now where are you?" She tried to ignore the way her lips tingle from the kiss or the way her tongue licked her mouth, trying to taste him. It felt like her blood was heating, and her heart traitorously pumped it through her body and left most of that heat between her thighs. Without warning Lina felt a painful pinch to her rump, the suddenness of the pinch making her yelp out and jump nearly two feet away, her hand rubbing at the offended area. "I already said you got me! And that hurt. You might have left a bruise." She was trying to check on her rump, not noticing as the menacing shadow formed in front of her, a grin full of vicious looking teeth and sinister red eyes leering over her weak position.

"You should be so lucky." He watched as she looked over her shoulder at him slowly, trying to keep her anger but he knew that she was also hoping he would dominate her. She was to 'cute' when she had screamed and jumped. "You are a very bad girl Lina...and bad girls need to be punished. Don't you agree?" He let the words roll lazily from his lips, making sure to emphasize punished. He watched her blush and yet eyes him carefully. He could practically hear the debate in her mind about whether he was going to kill or kiss her. He watched as she gave a tiny shake of her head to his question, his gloved hand reaching out and running down from her shoulder to her wrist. "To bad my dear…" In a flash his hand had grasp her wrist and he had yanked her over his lap as he sat on her bed, her robe riding up her thighs. Lina was completely motionless. To shocked by his speed to properly react to the situation he had put her in. "Count." She looked over her shoulder at him, not quite grasping his meaning. Before Lina could open her mouth to speak she felt his hand come down on her backside hard. She cried out and tried to wriggle off his lap, but his hand on her back kept her firmly in place.

"That hurts! Stop it!" She was given a harder slap directly on top of the stinging flesh, and she knew there was no winning this fight, he would just spank harder if she fought him. With her head down and her cheeks ready to burst into flame she submitted. Lina felt her heart flutter and she just hoped he wouldn't tempt her too far…she did not have the willpower to resist. "One…Sir." She could feel the vibrations of his chest and the slight shifting of his legs as he chuckled at her lack of resistance.

"Sir? I think you can do better than that." Alucard brought his hand down again, leaving her some modesty with her panties and robe. He watched her yelp in pain and wriggle, enjoying this.

"Two…Master?" He was spanking her much too hard, her flesh stinging even under the protection of her panties and robe. She hoped he liked that title, she really couldn't think of much more. She let out a cry of pain as he spanked her again. "Three…Count?" Lina was holding back tears as he came down even harder, her urge to resist bubbling up with the pain and she started to wriggle harder, trying to rolled off his lap, he pushed his hand harder onto her back to keep her pinned. Her body was tensed, prepared for the next blow. "Four…King." That had to be what he was after. She honestly couldn't think of his higher titles if he had any. There was a pause, and she let out a sigh of relief as no slap came. There was a small swishing sound before his hand contacted her rump again, and she screamed from how hard he smacked her, whimpering as it stung. "Five…and I don't know…I just don't know. What do you want me to say?" He chuckled darkly at her, his free hand wandering down her legs, easily grasping her ankle with his long reach. She wanted him to take his gloves off, but she really didn't at the same time. Lina went still with fear as he encased her throat with his hand that had been pinning her back, lifting her head up closer to his, but still not letting her see his face. She had to prop herself up with her hands on his legs to keep herself from being strangled. His lips brushed against her ear, his cold breath caressing the sensitive flesh and she bit her lip to hold in a feline like mewl of delight.

"Say my name." He practically growled against her ear, his tongue flicking out to prod at her neck, enjoying the way she gasped and shivered, and how he could smell her arousal. He let his hand slowly roam up from her ankle to her calf, moving his hand up with purpose on the inside of her leg. "Say it."

"Alucard?" Lina spoke timidly, his hand on her throat and his wandering hand making her obedient. His strong hand stroked back and forth on her upper calf, not yet moving higher on her legs.

"Good girl." He stood up and tossed her onto the bed, looking at her as she tried to gain composure. He finally let her get a good look at him, shrugging out of his coat and tossing it over her desk chair. He kicked off his riding boots, lounging in her chair as he looked her over with a self satisfied look. "Feeling better about your first time?" He drawled out, licking his lips. Alucard enjoyed watching her struggle to not blush and seeing her fail.

"No…I am not feeling better, that really hurt Alucard...I'm not into pain." She looked away from him, wrapping her hands around her middle and her body slumped with depression. "I feel the same as earlier I guess, I don't regret it but...I'm scared." He reached with his shadow to gently wrap around her ankle and squeeze it reassuringly. "You are so lucky that no one else is home. Otherwise I'd have to move in with you. Matt says if he even sees you around here he'll kick me out." She wanted to change the subject away from the murder. Unfortunately for her he was not going to let her shift it so easily.

"So are you saying you'll give up on justice out of fear? That you are too scared to finish what you started?" There was an anger in his voice that would normally have made her cringe, but she couldn't stand his words. Standing up from her bed she marched over to him, standing at the end of his long legs and glaring at him with her hands on her hips.

"No. And don't you dare put words in my mouth. I said I am scared, not that I'm giving up. Fear is normal, fear is healthy, it's what helped humans survive this long. You were scared once upon a time too. So just..be here for me so I'm not alone. I'll get over it...just...it just takes time." The last statement of her was through tears glistening in her eyes and a few streaking down her face. He watched her through a carefully guarded look, rolling her words over in his mind. "I refuse to be bullied into being someone else or feeling something else. I am me. For better or worse. I am a weak human with human emotions and I simply cannot push them away and lose myself. Just give me time to adjust. I promise you, I'm tired of me being worthless too." Lina sagged against her bed as she let go of her pent up emotion, wiping her eyes and looking away from him. "You should leave n-" She never finished that statement as his lips were on hers again, this time much gentler. Alucard's tongue darted out to taste her lips his hands on either side of her and Lina didn't fight, her lips pushing back.

"Stop saying you're worthless or I will swallow that tongue of yours so you can never speak ill of yourself again." He never pulled his lips away from hers, hers feeling his brush against them as he spoke and she mouthed a yes but didn't speak. Satisfied with her answer he let a hand slip to the tie of her robe, undoing it and letting his hand slip inside to run alone her side, resting against her hip and squeezing firmly, possessively. "What did you do with all that extra energy I gave you?" Lina had to actually focus on what he said as his hand on her was very distracting; taking a few moments to actually think of what he was talking about.

"I don't know…probably used all of it to take him there. I doubt I have any left. I'm not exactly sure how to use that much energy. I do not have that much ever...naturally. Plus I do not want to make a habit out of your energy. Last thing I need is other witches avoiding me for becoming strigoi viu." She pulled away from his lips so she could take in a proper breath, shivering as his gloved hand moved to her waist. "Why do you want to know?"

"I find it disgustingly funny. My mortal girlfriend has used vampiric energy more than my fledgling of two years." Alucard pushes his knee between her thighs, pressing up to rub his thigh against her panties, her robe parted and giving him a view of her flesh.

"I don't have energy, I have you. You are a much more convenient place to store energy than my purse is." She teased him, keeping her thighs closed tight even as his knee pressed. "Besides…I'm sure Seras could use those abilities if you just taught her better." His knee pulled back and he loomed over her.

"Are you saying I am not a good teacher? That I don't know how to handle my fledgling?" The way he said it was like he was daring her to insult him.

"Maybe you are not a good teacher for her. Maybe she needs someone less…evil to show her how to be a vampire." Good lord why was she taking the bait. The minute she said that she regretted it, he was going to spank her again.

"You think you could do any better." Alucard's tone was even, but the danger was tangible. Why did fearing for her life turn her on around him? There is bound to be some type of issue not being addressed here.

"Kind of." What the fuck did she just say? Had those two words just come flying out of her mouth? He was going to snap her neck. Lina was honestly surprised that she was not sweating with fear. Of course she did lose some of her color at the realization.

"Bet. On. It." The way he said those words made the bottom of her stomach drop out. Lina gulped and looked into his all too powerfully consuming eyes.

"What are the terms and the wager?" Lina was horrified by her response. What was she saying! She knew she couldn't win this bet. She was a good as dead now. Any minute now he would strangle her or rip her head off and drink her like shot of whiskey.

"If you can teach Police Girl just one vampiric ability at a proficient level, you win. If you fail, I win. As for wager…" He looked down over her exposed flesh, his thumb brushing along the rim of her bra, making her breath hitch. "If you fail you have to shower with Police girl for my amusement…" Alucard pushed her robe down her arms, watching her cheeks flush as red as his coat. "While I watch." Somehow this suggestion shocked her, yet Lina really should have expected him to suggest something she wouldn't agree to. Too bad he didn't really know that much about her.

"Then if I win you have to get me an A in my math class." Reaching up Lina started to undo his Cravat, pulling him closer to her, licking the shell of his ear. "Agree?" Alucard smirked at her actions, enjoying her teasing.

"Agreed." He let her undo his cravat, feeling her pull it from him and her warm fingers caressed his scalp as she played with the back of his hair. Her legs wrapped around his waist and she pulled him down on top of her, and he looked down in surprise at her bold move.

"For the record Alucard, I've made out with girls before." She kissed him, her tongue pushing into his mouth as she avoided his sharp fangs. He growled and kissed her back, his hands gripping her waist tighter and she was sure there would be finger shaped bruises.

Transylvania 1455

Setareh lead her mare gently behind Vlads' stallion, smiling up at the sun and listening to the wild birds tweeting sweetly for each other. This was a perfect day. She had to tell him. Otherwise she may never get a chance to. Setareh had full faith that her husband would be given his chance to prove himself, she prayed for his happiness. It would have him being away at war for a long period of time, but she was ready to shoulder the waiting with grace and honor. She would wait for him years if it came to that, no matter what he would not betray her unless the angel of death dragged him away, maybe not even then. But he had a right to know that his fight was no longer just for his own pride and honor. Lost in her current train of thought she was surprised when Vlads' hand came to rest on her own, gently leading her to turn the reins to follow him deeper into the forest. She looked up at his face, giving him a bright smile before giggling at her own absent mindedness.

"What has you so lost in thought my dear?" Setareh looked over his face, trying to read the lines to see what he was thinking. He had not been himself this day. It must be bad news. Her heart sunk for him, she wanted him to succeed. She knew he could if those silly old men would just let him. He was brilliant. It was not the first time she cursed her inability to speak his native tongue. If she could maybe she could plead with those men to give her love the chance to prove himself, so he could create his own Jerusalem. She studied dutifully, but she simply could not master the translations, she did not have his gift for speech. She hid her thoughts and emotions, stroking the mane of the mare she rode.

"I am just thinking of writing my family. They may be mad that I ran off, but I do not like the idea of their hearts breaking because they do not know what happened to me. Do you think it would be a good idea love?" His face became even darker at her words, a warning sounded out weakly in the back of her mind that she was the cause of his current sourness. Her heart clenched with fear and she had to push that silly notion away. "Of course if you do not want me to I will not." He was no longer listening to her, letting his horse move them and his eyes staring straight ahead. She has upset him, in shame she looked down into her hands, his hand still holding onto her rein so her horse would not wander off. They were silent till he made a series of clicking sounds; bring his war horse to a stop, her obedient mount stopping as well. He dismounted smoothly, trying both their reins to a branch before moving around the small glade, checking that no one was around. Setareh did not wait, dismounting carefully from the mare as she set up the blanket in a shady spot, patting to make sure that the ground beneath was not wet. She went about setting up their lunch, pulling out the wine sack she had asked the kitchen maids for. In the privacy of the glen she let her hair down, running her fingers through it and removing her shoes, enjoying the grass beneath her feet. "Shall I make you a sandwich?" She asked sweetly, humming in delight. Vlad came to sit beside her, his long sword resting on the blanket, his short blade still tucked into his side. He was a good husband. He protected her, honored their vows, and loved her. What more could she ask for in a man? He picked up the wine skin, smirking at her before taking a swig from it, letting the red wine stain his lips. Finally he was coming from his darkness. As his wife she took pride in remembering his favorites. He laid his head in her lap, playing with stray stands of her hair as it blew about in the breeze.

"Make it and then feed me." She rolled her eyes at him playfully at his tone, knowing he was jesting with her. She made him his food, holding it out to him as she nibbled on her own food. She refused the wine as he held it out to her. She knew from the many women in her family that she should not drink while with child. As she thought of it her hand went to rest tenderly on her belly. It had been three months since her monthly bleed, but she had yet to really show much of a bump. She had told not a soul about her precious gift. They had not discussed the idea of children, but it was bound to happen with the way they loved each other. She was going to tell him, but she wanted to see if maybe he could guess it first. He was slightly oblivious to the signs, but he was busy with so much else she could not blame him. All that mattered to her was a healthy child, but for Vlad she knew it would be important for him to have a son, an heir. A dreamy smile crossed her lips as she painted a picture in her mind of a happy bouncing baby boy nursing from her as she sang it to sleep, and of that same child learning swords from Vlad. His son would sit proudly beside him and be taught the art of war, and she could teach their son all the wonderful history and art from her own bloodline. Even if it was a girl it would be a blessing, but as the picture solidified in her mind she suddenly hoped for a boy. So lost was she in her day dream that she never noticed as Vlad began to lick at her fingers, only being drawn from her fantasy by his playful nibbling, his sharp teeth making her jolt and laugh at herself. "My wife is so lost in thought she neglects me. What are you thinking of with such a happy smile on your face? I wish to share in that carefree moment with you." He spoke huskily against her neck, making her moan and shiver.

"It is a secret Love." She used what little stealth she had to pull away from him and stand upon her feet. He looked at her with a raised eyebrow, not getting up from his relaxed position. She picked up her skirts in her hands, smiling like they were children again playing in the palace. "I will only tell you if you can catch me." She darted off into the woods, knowing Vlad would come after her. He could not resist such a silly challenge. He was a good enough hunter that she knew he would find her even if she got lost. She laughed merrily as she darted around trees and changed directions often, set on finding a hiding place to wait for him.

"Mary Our Mother" Orphanage…11:32 p.m.

Sean was kneeling before the cross, his head bowed as he prayed. He held his crucifix tightly as he prayed, his knees protesting at the cold floor that gave no cushion. The pain was his way to drown out his demon, literally. It would be so busy with the pain that it did not speak to him. Sean repeated each and every single word from his readings over and over again, carving them into his mind to learn their lessons thoroughly. There was only a few candles left lit in the chapel, but Sean would stay here as long as it took. Soft footfalls announced the presence of his mentor and teacher, Father Anderson. The elder priest sat down in the pew next to him, opening a bible and scanning through it before finding the sections he had assigned Sean to read, beginning them aloud. Sean followed along vocally, both of their voices drifting softly through the chapel, the figure of Christ staring down at them with compassion from the agonizing place of honor on the cross. As the two finished the verses Anderson put his hand on Sean's shoulder.

"Come Lad, get yer rest. Ay'll be needing yer help wit the children in da morning." The older man pulled Sean up by his shoulder. Sean nodded, putting the crucifix around his neck again, following Anderson back out of the chapel after they exterminated the candles. As they walked in darkness back to their rooms Sean looked out at the fog gathering outside the window, able to sense the moon hanging in the sky above, and his body aching to run to it. Why did such a cold celestial object hold so much power over him? The moon was a lifeless piece of rock floating in space, yet it made his animalistic heart swell with joy and love, like it was a lover and a mother at once. Such a thought made Sean shake his head with disgust. There was only a heavenly Father; the beauty of the moon was a trick of the devil. Even as the thought crossed his mind his heart pushed the thought away. "Say yer prayers ta keep yer soul." Anderson's voice reminded him softly. It was if the man could read his struggle on his face.

"I will Father. Thank you for your patience with me. If not for you compassion I would be dead." Sean crossed his heart and recited the Lord's Prayer, coming to his room and giving a nod to Father Anderson before coming into his room and closing the door. Sean removed his clothes and changed into a set of simple pj's resting on the twin sized bed and pulling the covers over him. As Sean closed his eyes he let his hand reach up to the burn of his forehead, assuring to himself that the werewolf inside would not have free reign over his soul before letting the darkness of sleep come and ease his troubled mind.

In the other room Anderson was still moving about, his tongue darting out to lick his lips as he looked over his vampire hunting equipment. Each piece he had specially prepared for the madman of England, the red devil. His gloved fingers caressed the handles of the blessed bayonets. With God as his witness he would end that vampire's unlife and send the monster straight into depths of hell where he belonged. A small hint of sadness accompanied this thought. After Anderson killed his enemy Alucard, who else would he hunt? No other vampire would ever be as difficult to defeat, would require so much planning and preparation. It would be a sad day for the paladin, but a day that the church awaited eagerly. If it was what the Church and Dogma prescribed, he would follow those orders well and good. Picking up one of the bayonets Anderson enjoyed the weight of righteousness in his hand, the sharp edge of unyielding Christian truth.

"Farewell ye Monster." A wide grin flashed over the priest's face as the crazy look of bloodlust came over his eyes, the blade glinting off moonlight coldly in the dark room.

Hellsing Manor…November 16, Friday…3 pm

Lina was proud of herself for having completed her shopping for Sir Integra earlier than requested, setting out selections she had as she waited for Integra to come and look over her finds. Lina looked over some of the jewelry longingly. Lina had good real pieces of jewelry, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, etc; but some of these high name brand designer creations had her drooling at their quality and sheer artistry. But there was no way she would fork out fifty grand for a piece of jewelry. Maybe if she won the lottery then she could justify such a splurge, but even then she had a long list of actual real goals she would have to use that money for first. Namely giving her family enough money so all five of her little cousins could go to college without worrying, then paying off any debt the older members of her family had, then paying for her own college, setting up retirement funds for her grandparents and parents, then setting up her own retirement account. If she still had a lot left she would have to split sixty percent of it and give it to a charity so she wouldn't feel completely selfish, if it was a small amount she would give all of it to charity. But what charity should she give it to? Should she divide it up between a couple charities? Or maybe just give a lump sum to one so she could fund that cause better? If she gives a lump sum what kind of charity should it go to? A charity for the homeless? No, maybe a disease charity? Cancer sounds good. But there are so many different types to choose from. Or an animal charity to save an endangered species? Tigers or manta rays? Whales would be a great choice too. Then again she should help her fellow humans first, at least children. Feeding needy children is always a great cause, or shelters for abused wives. Linas' thoughts drifted to Samantha. A charity to help stop human trafficking! Perfect.

"Now I just need to win the lottery." Lina said with finality, her imaginary finances firmly set in place. She was setting out a heavy diamond necklace absentmindedly as she said it.

"I'm sure the fashion industry can't wait for you to win it either." Sir Integra snapped at Lina, marching into the room with tense shoulders. Lina opened her mouth to defend herself but decided to let it go. Never a smart idea to pick a fight with someone that can fire you. "I hope you have some smaller, tasteful pieces." Integra scoffed, looking around at her selection of dresses without really looking at them.

"Yes, there are smaller pieces. I just wanted to give you a big selection Sir Hellsing." Lina was trying her best to not let Integra's sour mood rub off on her. Plastering a happy smile on her face Lina focused on twenty second breaths, it helping keep her easily riled emotions at bay.

"Had a hay day with my credit card I see. Great to know I gave a shopaholic label whore access to my personal funds." Integra was not pulling any punches with her verbal abuse. Integra's temples were throbbing and her blood pressure was on the rise. It was never a good day for anyone on the Headquarter grounds when a mission went wrong. Of course the fact Lina was the third person Integra had encountered today after the failure had been reported was not tilting the scales in the girl's favor. Behind Integra's back Lina was fighting the urge to flip her boss the bird for being in such a bad mood. Lina knew she could get just as emotionally unreasonable, but that didn't mean she could take what she dished out gracefully all the time.

"None of these items are purchased yet. I talked to the store owners so these pieces are basically out on a private showcase for you. Apparently a lot of the other ton girls get these kinds of privileges too." Lina was straining to keep her tone polite and cheerful. She would not lose her cool.

"Well at least I can be thankful you haven't raped my pocketbook…yet." That biting 'yet' was pushing Lina dangerously close to making an ass out of herself. No, she had to resist the temptation. Lina had to remind herself that Integra was not always this bitchy, there were times she was pleasant.

"Is something bothering you today Sir? Cause if it is maybe you should hold off on trying stuff on in a bad mood." Lina hoped to god Sir Integra didn't shoot her for the attitude. Lina deserved a brownie point for holding it in this long. Integra turned on her heels and shot Lina a withering look.

"Is something bothering me? You want to know if something is 'bothering' me?" Lina stood her ground as Integra stalked closer. "How about the fact that a vampire who slaughtered 31 people, two of which were my men escaped last night and I have no leads as to where this bastard is hiding! Yes! That fact bloody bothers me you American twit! How dare you talk like that to me! You have no idea the amount of stress I am under on a daily basis! The lives of my men and of innocent civilians rest on my shoulders every single minute of every single day! So yes I am a wee bit stressed you bloody idiot!" Integra paused for a breath, fully planning on continuing her tired when Lina did something so shocking it put Integra at a loss for words. Lina was hugging her, tightly. As the shock and horror of the situation registered in Sir Hellsing's mind she roughly shoved Lina off her, her hand moving to slap the insolent chit for being so bold. Lina stepped back out of range, her hands up defensively, ready to block an incoming blow. "What in God's name do you think you were doing when you hugged me!"

"I was trying to make you feel better! Hugging usually helps make people feel better! I don't want you to be upset! Sorry for trying to show some fucking compassion. Jeez! You act like I pulled your pants down or something!" Before Lina could help it a sudden rush of emotions that belonged to one of her other lives came upon her, tears welling up in her eyes as she tried to maintain her composure around her boss. But it was a wave of sadness she could not hold back, her voice cracking and tears running down her cheeks."I don't want you to be upset. I like you. You and Seras are the closest things I have to girlfriends here. I just want everyone to be happy. I know it's not possible to be happy all the time but I can't stand someone being sad." To Integra's dismay Lina started to break down, sliding to her knees and her entire body being rocked by sobs as tears started pouring. The site of a girl Linas' age crying like an eight year old left Integra at a loss. Her anger draining as she just looked down at the pathetic sight of a girl sobbing hysterically on the floor over another person being upset. Taking a deep breath Integra stepped away from Lina, rubbing her temples to ease the tension.

"What are you crying for you git? If you want to cry go cry over the dead." Integra had lost her anger, unable to justify any more fury at the miserable mess still crying. "For god's sake pull yourself together." Integra moved over to Lina who had since collapsed onto the floor, her head buried in her arms as her body seems to contort with her sobs. Standing over her employee for a few minutes Integra felt a growing sense of sympathy settle in. The girl was a bit dense, but she had meant well. Gently she prodded Lina with her shoe, the wailing having finally calmed to what Integra could only call a whimper. There was no response from the girl. "Stop this behavior at once. There is no reason for you to be this upset." Lina slowly sat up at Integra's tone wiping tears from her face and struggling to breath from how hard she had been sobbing.

"Sorry…I just couldn't keep it in…it was too much sadness. And I'm sorry about the loss of your troops. It must be so hard for you and you never hear thank you…You are such a strong amazing woman…" Lina was overcome with more foreign emotions, crying once more despite her efforts to stop. This was wrong! Why couldn't she stop crying? These words weren't false, but she would not really say them under her own emotions unless she was having a 'friend' moment, and this was definitely not one. There was a sudden sharp pain in Linas' chest, her hand shooting up to clutch at her heart as she doubled over in pain, a hacking cough wracking her body. Integra realized that there was something wrong here, it being confirmed when blood started to splatter onto the marble floor as Lina continued to cough, it quickly turning into choking on the blood.

"Walter! Walter! Get the medical staff in here asap! She's choking on blood!" Her voice was loud and authoritative, but never did panic or worry set in.

Transylvania 1455

The sun was low in the sky, it starting to turn orange and the clouds gathered on the horizon were a dark, ominous grey. Setareh shivered in her hiding place at the base of a tree, shifting herself so she was in the lasting rays of the sun. It was getting dark, the once friendly woods dark and full of shadows. She was no longer hiding, simply staying in one place so Vlad could eventually find her. She hoped he did. She wiped the tears from her eyes. Off in the gathering gloom a wolf howled out, the melancholy sound making her whimper. The darkness had never frightened her that much before, but as the light became less and less Setareh knew it would never be a welcome sight again. Earlier she had tried to find her way to camp after what had felt like an eternity, but quickly found that she was indeed lost beyond her ability to navigate. She knew better than to try and find someone to help her, first there would be no guarantee that those people would not be men that would hurt her or witches that would curse her unborn babe or other terrible types of people. Even if they were kind and helpful, she would not be able to communicate with them. Tears were rolling down her cheeks as her heart sank. Where could he be? There was no way it would take this long to find her. Had something happened to him! What if after she left he had been ambushed and hurt? Or worse he could be dying somewhere and she was not there to help him. That thought made her start to sob. She was such an idiot! She should have just stayed with him and told him the good news, not come running out into the woods like a reckless child! She was a woman now and her shortsightedness had possibly doomed her and her baby. Her arms wrapped around her body protectively. No. She would live for the sake of this child and she had faith Vlad would find her. He would no doubt mount a search for her if he failed to find her on his own. The sky was turning orange and blood red, barely any blue from the day left and the brightest of the stars coming out. A terrifying thought struck her. Maybe Vlad had brought her out here to abandon her! Oh god! He had left her here to die!

"No!" She shot up to her feet, pacing in the last patch of sunlight. "He would not do that to me! He loves me! He promised he would take care of me for the rest of our lives! He could not have just left me here. He could not have just left me here alone. After everything I have done for him, all I have risked, all I have sacrificed, he is not this cruel. He cannot be. He just cannot be." She was fighting from breaking down and crying. Hope, she must keep hope. Without it she would fall into despair. "I must not think like this. If he were to hear me say such things he would be cross with me." Resting down against the trunk she curled her legs in tight, pulling her feet under her dress and tucking them in the fabric to keep them from becoming chilled. She could see the sun beginning to rest on the tops of the mountains in the distance, tears welling up in her eyes. She would be out here all night. "Oh Vlad….I need you…" A twig snapped behind her, body springing up so she could turn to face the noise. Her heart swelled with relief and she smiled as she found Vlad standing there, all her emotions letting loose. She made to go to him, intending to cling to him until she was satisfied that he was truly there and cry her heart out. The cold look in his eyes made her steps halt. Slowly he walked towards her, not speaking a word to her. Setareh stood still, waiting for him to break the silence as her tears cascaded down her face. Vlad stood before her, looking down at her, his lips drawn into a thin line. "Vlad…" She wrapped her arms around his chest, expecting him to return her embrace. He did not move, remaining stiff as his blade. In desperation she hugged him tighter, trying to draw out his response. There was a sudden horrific blinding agony in her body. A dagger was buried so deep into her back that it passed directly through her heart and the very tip was exposed from the flesh of her bosom. Her heart thrashing frantically as blood filled her punctured lung and she began to cough and choke on the blood. Blood came from her lips, droplets raining down from her lips, some crimson jewels landing on his cheek. She tried to smile for him, hoping this was some delusion of the darkness but when he cruelly yanked the dagger out of her back, shredding her flesh and tissues the reality set it, tears staining her face as she contorted in suffering. It was unbearable, the ache so brutal that she collapsed to the forest floor without the blade holding her up. Setareh could feel every drop of blood leave her through the vicious wound, her eyes looking straight head as she felt her life draining. The sky was a blood red, the sun setting further as dark shadows swallowed her flesh, cold and pain setting in. She could no longer breathe, her body no longer working even as her mind hysterically raced, trying to make sense of what was happening. Her eyes were opened and she could only see Vlad's form as he walked away from her, leaving her there in the woods. 'He is leaving me here to die.' She watched him disappear, her flesh unable to respond to call out for him to return to her. Darkness filled her eyes and there was nothing.

"…" There was silence, but that silence spoke volumes to the poor princess laying there on the cold forest floor in the darkness. Setareh stood slowly from the floor, looking around her in surprise as she could see in the darkness. Her eyes caught sight of a shadow watching her from a few feet away. "…" Still there was no sound but she felt as if she understood the shadow watching her. She slowly moved forward towards it, her heart lifting and her sorrows draining from her.

"Are you Malak al-Maut?" She asked respectfully, feeling no fear from this specter, feeling it drawing her near for something beautiful. That's right; this messenger of Allah would escort her from the world of the living to paradise. The land of milk and honey was being offered to her. A smile crossed her lips at this unimaginable honor.

"…" She smiled brighter, her heart knowing the answer. A magnificent hand was outstretched towards her, its beauty too much for her and she turned to look away, feeling that her lowly mortal hand should not touch this heavenly being. "…" The figure was no longer darkness but a color so stunning she could not describe it.

"I do not feel worthy of taking your hand. How can a lowly one like me deserve to touch it?" Why was she seeing this heavenly servant? She could feel her memories drifting away, starting from her early childhood.

"…" She understood. They were all equal in the eyes of Allah. Her hand reached out timidly as she continued to come closer. She wished to look back, to give a last goodbye to the world she had loved. "…"

"What do you mean do not look back? I do not wish to forget my childhood. How will I recognize my family in paradise if I forget?" She stopped her approach, putting her hand down. How could paradise not include those that loved her and that she loved in return? She turned back towards where she had come, an unspeakable sight meeting her. Setareh could see her own deceased body and how it was decaying. It must have been two weeks since the animals had already begun to devour her flesh, seeing into her own lifeless orbs and watching the insects picking the flesh from her. Setareh screamed at the sight and turned away from it, sobbing as her hands came to rest on her abdomen. If she was dead then that means so was her child. She sobbed harder, her form wracked with her wailing. "My child! Please Angel! What has become of my child!"

"You were warned about looking back Setareh. Since you never gave birth to the child, the soul that would have filled the flesh has been sent back to its origin. You no longer have a child. Now come so you may forget the rest of this affair." The angel finally spoke to her, its voice filling the space but was neither scolding nor approving. She came to the angel's feet, bending low and pleading.

"Please no angel. If I am to be a spirit at least let me have my child. I do not want to go alone to the oasis." She looked up imploringly to Malak al-Maut.

"It is not in my power to give you such." Setareh broke into another fit of sorrow, tiny cracks forming in her soul. The angel knew what was coming. She did not remember how she came to be the decaying corpse.

"Then let me at least see my husband before we depart. Please, I need this one grace and I promise I shall come." The angel gave a heaven ward glance before nodding softly, taking her gently by the hand as it lead her towards the place she requested to be taken. It seemed like forever and yet like the blink of an eye when they reached the room she had shared with Vlad and their marital bed. The room was empty, but she could faintly hear sounds from somewhere else in the keep, unable to hear it clearly through the veil of death. She was about to ask her companion why they were here when the door was pushed open, what sounded like hearty laughter slowly permeated the vast distance from the world of life and death. "Why is Vlad laughing? Does he not know I am…here?" She looked towards Malak al-Maut, hoping for some explanation. The angel's eyes stayed facing the broad back of the man she had requested to see. Setareh returned her attention there as well. If she were alive she would have died all over again as she saw her husband. Her beloved Vlad, holding another woman in his arms, giving that woman the same smile he had given her. The woman was in a wedding dress. The memory of her death flashed through her like lightning striking the earth, a scream ripped from her as she realized with revulsion what she was witnessing. Each strike of lightning pushed the splinters further and further through her form, tiny shards chipping off and falling to the floor below. She looked at the woman, pure hatred boiling inside her. She knew this woman, Elisabeta! With a heart of stone she watched as Vlad completed his marriage to another woman on the heels of her death. This insult would not be bared! She let out a roar of fury she had never felt before. Every ounce of love that once had been a cherished source of comfort in her heart twisted and writhed into a equally powerful, if not more potent hatred of him. Everything! He had taken everything from her! He'd taken her child, her life, had put her through so much for his own benefit and gain and this was her reward! She would never forgive him! She would never forgive this sin! As she screamed with the agony of his betrayal those fissures spread and she felt herself shatter like a glass figurine that had been carelessly discarded.

With her last moments of existence, she cursed him.

For destroying her humble happiness, may he never achieve his dreams.

Chapter End

Review Responses:

Chapter 23

ani-cat-candy: Thank you for your cake and the huggles. Delighted you enjoyed the lemon.

Ford B: Thank you for reading! Glad it was great.

nekomataonna: Sorry to disappoint but for the moment Lina will have to not be super gory. Good news is, she doesn't have to be for there to be gory. lol

illlee123: I love getting reviews, thank you and glad you enjoy how I am using Hellsing.

Billy Buyo: Any review is a great review, you did great. I am shocked I am with holding the Lemon this long too, my desire to make this a story with plot is getting in the way of my hot smex scenes. lol I am trying to at least work Alucard and Lina to a Lime soon. They are so not ready for the Lemon.

.snow0: Glad you love it. did not mean to loose you with the historical references.

Chapter 24

.snow0: I am glad you like the way I write. I work hard to improve and catch as many of my mistakes as I can. Its hard when Beta's keep disappearing on you.

Ford B: Thank you for like my update.

DeeDovich: I was worried something had happened to you when you did not review, or that I had failed you in the story, but I am delighted to find you alive and well, and leaving me such wonderful reviews. Never be sorry for writing a long review, you give me a lot of constructive feedback that way. I know, I want to write the Alucard/Lina Lemon, but it is just too early. If I rush it then it would destroy their awkward relationship. But I do want to write it so badly, and it will probably be kinkier and dirtier in its language. I am delighted to know that the characterization came out perfectly for the relationship differences, I would hate to have my characters sound so...one note. You finally found out what became of poor little Setareh, and I loath Elisabeta as well. I hope you got enough of the pervy to wet your whistle till I work them into a real Lime, and eventually a lemon.

blueminx87: *puts much into you shaped bottle* Here is more for you to read. I hope you liked it as much as the prior chapters. Thank you for noticing the hard work I put into making sure all the threads come together for the different aspects of this story. I put alot of research into the dates and events that were happening so it can feel authentic and like it belongs in there.