I do not own Hellsing nor do I have any interests in it save for pleasure.


Authors Note:

- Italics are thoughts. "sent or projected thoughts."

-/is in Romanian/ /projected thoughts in Romanian /

-Bold words are with emphasis not necessarily yelled or shouted


Through the Looking Glass


Blaze smiled. She and Tabby with their bookends had made it back to the estate before Walter, Seras and Alucard woke. Blaze had shown Tabby to the area for magical work that had been set aside then she went to her bedchamber. Walter still slept so Blaze disrobed and slid under the covers and into bed with him.

"Well this is most pleasant way to wake." Walter smiled.

"Oh you! You were already awake." Blaze laughed.

"This close to sundown, and there is someone creeping into my bed chamber? Yes." Walter laughed rolled over onto Blaze catching her lips in a kiss. "So is out favorite little witch here?" He asked and nibbled on Blaze's ear.

"Yes she is." Blaze smiled. "Should I be upset that my mate is asking after another woman while I am in bed with him and he is nibbling on my ear?"

"Not at all." Walter smiled and looked her in the eye. "You are my mate and the only woman I love. I asked Tabby to come this evening and you smell like the site she is in charge of." Walter kissed the tip of Blaze's nose. "I enquired after her to see if we had time to lay abed or not." He traced Blaze's cheek and slid an unruly lock of hair behind her ear. "Since she is here we really do not have that kind of time just now. Which means you are terribly unfair sliding into bed with me dressed in nothing more than that which God graced you with my love." Walter growled mildly as he nuzzled into her neck. "We will have to continue this later this evening."

"Yes indeed we will." Blaze sighed and nipped at Walter's ear. "Unfortunately we do have work to do." Blaze watched as Walter left bed. "It looks like it is a go for handing off the Terror division." She smiled and began to dress again.

"Well that is good news." Walter nodded. "It will be handed off to whom?"

"It will be handed to Sir Addams. Integra has checked him out and says he is safe. She thinks she may have a very good candidate for one of the traitors." Blaze said as she slid into her trousers.

"Oh and whom would that be?" Walter asked looking at Blaze as she straightened his tie.

"Our first candidate is Sir Darby; what is your opinion?" Blaze asked straitening her shirt as she tucked it in.

"I've never been fond of him. He is a bit … too slick? He is rather a brown nosing chap. Wants to be on everybody's good side." Walter looked at Blaze. "I was thinking I would allow my hair to grow out a bit more, like you I find I miss my hair."

"I like the idea." Blaze smiled and fastened her own waistcoat. "What do you know of Darby since you have been … new on the scene? How has he treated the young Sir Dornez?"

"He has treated me well. He did work to be sure our version of the fox hunt was accepted." Walter leaned against one of the posts on the bed. "I think Integra may be on to something with her theory." Walter smiled as Blaze finished stomping on her boot and turned to face him. "So how is our little witch?"

"She is well enough. Oh as it turns out G.C. Raven has magic in her past. Her grandparents are called Merlin and Morrigan. So it fits her being one of Tabby's bookends." Blaze smiled and walked out of the bedchamber with Walter. "Hello Jeff. How are you this evening?"

"Very well Countess, thank you." Jeff smiled and set Walter's evening blood on the table. "Bullet received your message Sir Walter; he has put aside the things you asked."

"I am glad to hear it Jeff." Walter nodded. "So Raven has a strong magical connection. Does she use it?"

"Not that I am aware of. I know her grandparents to be good people and they have offered to help us." Blaze smiled and reached out to find Alucard. /Are you awake My Dragon?/

/Indeed we are. Is Tabby here?/ Alucard reached out his own senses. /Ah good she is. I will need to speak to you on some things./ Alucard thought to Blaze as he retrieved the letter of confession.

/Very well. Walter and I are in our sitting room or if it is not too personal I plan to have Tabby join us in my office if that sounds better./ Zsophia accepted papers from Jolene and began to review them.

/As it is business related your office will be a good place./ Alucard smiled and accepted the goblet of blood from Seras. /We are to have a meeting in Zsophia's office. My Dark Rose, Are you well?/

/I just did not sleep so well love./ Seras smiled weakly. Her sleep had been troubled by visions of Anderson. /Bad dreams./

/Seras, My Dark Rose, Midians do not dream./ Alucard said then drank some of his blood all the while watching and working to get a sense of what was going on within her.

/So what do you call it when you are asleep and you see visions?/ Seras asked Alucard somewhat sarcastically. /Wait, am I speaking Romanian?/ Seras asked looking surprised.

/Yes you are and, have been./ Alucard laughed. /You are absolutely adorable with that look of shock on your face./ Alucard smiled at her. /It has been a while since I have been able to properly enjoy it./ Alucard chuckled. /You look so cute./ When Seras hit him he only laughed harder. /I used to be able to surprise you at will to see that look./ Alucard caught Seras and sat down with her in his chair. /I think I treasure that look so much now because it is so very rare./

/You are a punk! Here I was all mad at you …/ She pouted. As Alucard grinned she shook her head. /Ok so explain what you meant about us not dreaming./

/Very well. We have visions of the past, memories. We can also have visions of the future. Remember Police Girl we are inherently magical. Visions of the past present and future are not unusual. Sometimes they, the visions of the future can become real./ Alucard flashed again to his own nightmare. Even now he could not remember the woman that called out to him. In the vision he knew who it was that called to him, the one whom the Damned Judas Priest was torturing and killing. Alucard had convinced himself it was Seras. But now he was not so sure, if that Damned Anderson were to discover that Alucard had a living daughter …

/Vlad!/ Seras said and poked his nose. She laughed as He blinked and rubbed at his nose. /Where were you lover? You have been having visions as well haven't you?/

/Yes, yes I have. It is an odd thing, a disturbing one./ Alucard looked at Seras. /I won't speak it. Perhaps it is a superstition, or maybe an understanding of magic; I will not speak it into existence./ He stroked the side of her face. /Will you tell me of yours?/

/No. They upset me enough and they will upset you as well. Shall we leave sleeping hellcats lie?/ Seras asked as she handed him back his goblet with a very feline smile. /Finish your blood, we do have a meeting to go to after all./

/As you wish my Dark Rose./ Alucard nodded and finished his blood. Alucard wondered after the visions Seras had, he thought of possibly sneaking into her mind to find out what they were, but thought better of it.


Tabby was in her own variety of heaven. The rooms set aside for magical work were everything she could want. There was an area set aside for every purpose. There was a room for books and one for supplies set aside from the room set aside for the actual working of magic. There was comfy couches and everything she and the circle could need. It was in truth more than Tabby could have ever hoped for. It was hard woods and velvet, deep rich colors. Looking around Tabby could tell that Blaze had got the very best that she could for this area.

"Greetings Miss Tabitha." A very friendly voice came from the door. Tabby still squealed and jumped. "Oh forgive me Miss." The woman said as she stepped into the room and curtseyed. "I am Dumpling. Our Countess asked me to be sure you were well and that you had found what you needed." She smiled warmly.

"Oh um thank you Dumpling." Tabby said and swallowed she felt stupid for reacting the way she did.

"I am very sorry for startling you." Dumpling said and set down a tray with a mug of cocoa on it. "I hope you like cocoa. I have found most people in the west are very fond of it. I must admit I understand why."

"Yes Dumpling I do love cocoa, thank you." Tabby smiled and sat on one of the overstuffed chairs. "Ummm aren't you going to sit too Dumpling?"

"I would enjoy it thank you Miss Tabitha." Dumpling smiled and sat down.

"Dumpling is Miss Tabitha the way I need to get used to being addressed with you?" Tabby asked as she picked up the mug and sipped the cocoa. "Wow this is really good!"

"I am glad you like it I will remember to tell Natty it will please her to know you like it so. Yes Miss Tabitha that is the way I will address you. I know Our Countess is very fond of you." Dumpling smiled.

"Well I really like Z." Tabby smiled. "If you tell Dirk I'll deny it but Natty's cocoa is better than his." Tabby smiled as she sipped more. "How do you know Z is fond of me?"

"Well Miss Tabitha she speaks very highly of you and she sent me to keep you company." Dumpling smiled at her. "Here Miss Tabitha use this napkin before you spill cocoa on Ruger." Dumpling handed over a napkin.

"Oh thanks." Tabby smiled at Dumpling, checked Ruger for cocoa spots, and really understood what it was Blaze had been trying to explain to her about the woman. "So I guess Z kinda looks at me like family." Tabby said quietly. That's cool neither of us have any so I like it.

"Indeed she does. That is why she asked me to look after you. I know you are also a part of this Hellsing, but for now it is as much a social call as it is business. She wanted you to feel comfortable." Dumpling nodded.

"Wow thank you Dumpling." Tabby smiled and drank more of her cocoa.

"Natty was wondering what it was you might like for dinner." Dumpling asked smiling at the young woman in front of her. Dumpling did not in the least understand what Tabby was wearing or why. To her eyes the girl seemed to be doing everything she could to make herself unattractive, and strange. Black on her lips and fingernails astounded her.

"Ummm whatever is being made?" Tabby shrugged.

"Very well Miss Tabitha, I will let Natty know while you are in your meeting." Dumpling smiled. There was a quick knock on the door and Thirteen poked her head in.

"Well this is definitely a part of the estate I had not seen." Thirteen said as she got a quick eyeful of the place. "Pardon Tabitha, Dumpling, but Countess Ashton and Sir Dornez are in her office. I'll show you the way Tabitha. I am the Personal Assistant to Commander Seras Victoria. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Umm you too Thirteen." Tabby said as she stood holding her mug of cocoa. "Thank you for showing me the way I'd get lost." Tabby said as she slung Ruger over her shoulder. "Dumpling thank you for sitting with me."

"It is my pleasure Miss Tabitha." Dumpling said and left the room.

"So how easy is it to get lost here?" Tabby asked Thirteen.

"Very they actually issue maps that tell you how to get to where you need to be as well as areas you are to stay the hell away from." Thirteen said with a laugh.

"Good maps to have I'll have to ask Z … I mean the Countess for one." Tabby smiled and followed Thirteen to Blazes office.

"Odds are it will all be per programed into the PDA the Countess has had programed for you." Thirteen said with a smile. A few weeks ago I would have been hassling Tabitha to keep her moving on her way in town. Now I find out she is the head of the Magical division of the organization. I will never look at anybody the same way again. No more assumptions on who or what a person is based on first appearances.


"Good evening all." Alucard said as he and Seras walked into Blaze's office.

"Good evening Dragon." Blaze smiled. Could it really be? Could he be my Father? Blaze wondered to herself. Stop that. Don't be a fool. Blaze scolded herself and blinked. "Did you both rest well Seras?"

"Well enough Zsophia. Heya Tabby!" Seras smiled and waved. "So Doctor Dornez how is the patent?"

"The patient is doing well Seras. Tabby I am not so sure about though." Walter said with a shake of his head and a small smile.

"Oh? I see." Seras smiled and walked over to where Tabby was actually looking rather traumatized as Walter was disassembling Ruger. "It will be fine Tabby. Walter is Ruger's creator. He is the best man for the job." Seras put an arm around Tabby. "By the by I really love that dress. It doesn't look like Tailors work."

"So Little One how are you this evening?" Alucard asked as he shook his head at the little drama that was being played out before them. What was the pull I felt from you just then? I think part of you wants to acknowledge our connection; you know that I am your father. "Did you sleep well after Walter took you home?"

"Yes I did thank you." Blaze nodded working to not begin to laugh aloud at the drama. She bit her lower lip. When she looked at Alucard his amusement was obvious. /Dragon don't you dare start me laughing!/ She thought at him. He could hear the laughter in her thoughts.

/I will work not to as long as you do not start me laughing./ Alucard thought back to her with laughter in his thoughts as well. "I did have a matter to bring up to you My Master." Alucard said before he thought better of it.

"Bloody …" Walter cringed.

"Huh?" Tabby said looking around as she saw Seras and Walter freeze.

"Vlad," Blaze looked at him severely. "You had jolly well better have a good reason to call me that." Blaze said through narrowed eyes.

"I actually do. It is the most appropriate way to address you for this matter." Alucard said with a smirk on his face. "I did tell you I had a matter of business to consult with you on." He could tell she could be fun this evening as long as he was careful. "There are other ways I would prefer to address you , but for now My Master this really is the most appropriate way to address you." Alucard looked Blaze in the eye as he took off his shades. "This is business that must be brought to My Master." His smirk got a shade bigger.

"I knew things were going too smoothly with him." Walter sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose.

"It has been a while since they had a go at it." Seras nodded.

"Huh?" Tabby asked with a shrug.

"Very well then Alucard." Blaze said through teeth that were beginning to grind. "Pray tell me what business it is you have for me." Everyone felt the energy in the room begin to shift.

"Ummmm …" Tabby looked at Seras and Walter who were looking as if they were about to act. Both could feel it, Blaze was far from amused.

"I have received a letter from a Midian who wishes to submit himself to my judgment over his behavior, My Master." Alucard allowed the last two words to roll off his tongue.

"I swear I am going to dice him like Tofu." Walter muttered under his breath.

"I'm not gonna stop ya." Seras responded in the same tone as they and Tabby watched Alucard and Zsophia stare at each other.

"Then why bring it to me at all?" Blaze said working to stem the tide of energy and anger that was growing within her. It was becoming more and more difficult for her to control and keep those energies in check when annoyed as of late. It was so wrong in her ears for him to call her Master and he knew it. He knew how much she loathed it; still he was doing so now. She knew that he was using the guise of formal conversation as his excuse to poke at her. Damn it! He is my Prince! He should not be saying this. She ranted in her own mind. A small voice in her whispered: It is not right for a father to call his daughter Master unless she has truly bested him. Blaze swallowed. Stop it! Stop it now! It is impossible. She reminded that part of her that had given even the smallest voice to the thought. "It would seem to be a matter best dealt with by you and your court." Blaze finished once again staring daggers at him.

"Ah but you see My Master I have no court here." Alucard nearly purred at her. Again I feel that pull from you My Daughter. You do know the truth, why do you fight it so much?

"What in the hell do you mean you have no court here?" Blaze asked shocked. "Alucard, if you do not hold the court in this town and country then who does?"

"You really do not know, you really do not understand?" Alucard looked at Blaze. "My Little Master, there is no court nor has there been since I was first bound by the Helsings." He smiled at her almost sadly. "Did you really think they would have allowed it? Think on it. Is that something they would have ever allowed? For them to do so they would have to admit many things to themselves that contradicted beliefs that they held as almost gospel." Alucard shook his head and smiled at Blaze. "Again you are so worldly and yet so innocent."

"Did that just get diffused?" Tabby asked Walter and Seras in a whisper. Both Walter and Seras nodded. "Ok good."

"No I didn't think about it did I?" Blaze sighed and leaned on her desk. "It just seems natural to have a court here. How else are things to be handled? How else are the laws of hospitality to be enforced?" Blaze asked confused. "But then that would mean that there was organization amongst the Midians in the area. The Helsings would of course view it as a threat to the island rather than as a way to maintain the necessary calm and control. Idiots." Blaze shook her head again. "Which is why you would have to bring any matter or communication to me as your … Master." Blaze had to force the word past her lips. "I think it best you create a court here Vlad, one to cover this Country. I do not think I could handle having to deal with more than one Midian court just now." Blaze said as she shook her head then rubbed at her temples. "You are the strongest so it would make sense."

"Pardon?" Walter asked wide eyed.

"Create a Midian court?" Seras dropped her jaw.

"For the whole country?" Tabby squeaked.

"It makes the most sense to me. It will be easier to deal with the population. Do you think you can handle it Alucard?" Blaze asked taunting him. "Or have you forgotten?" Her smirk now matched the one he wore earlier.

"I have not forgotten My Master." Alucard chuckled and smiled broader allowing his fangs into full view. "Is this then an order from My Master to create a court of Midians? Is it your order My Master to rule over this court, to take onto myself a title and the power over the Midians that live on or visit this land?" He grinned bigger. "Is this your order; to go to war, to conquer, to vanquish, and to rule?" As he spoke his voice changed. He was issuing a challenge to Blaze, to His Master, to His Daughter. Also in his voice was betrayed some excitement at the idea of being allowed to do this, to be in fact ordered to do this. Alucard's eyes glowed.


"So Mala I wonder what the bloody hell is going on with you?" DeMorte wondered. As he got out of his car and walked quickly to the door of the compound. Unlike many of his race the sun was not lethal to him but he had developed a habit of staying out of it as much as possible. It weakened his powers and that he did not like at all. "I have every intention of finding out." He hoped by working with her during the day she would be even weaker than he. She was after all a husk of a body silent and unmoving yet something in him still was cautious. "This is so stupid." He growled to himself.

"Sir we were not expecting you back today." The guard at the front of the Eve Project area stammered.

"Which makes it an ideal time to be here doesn't it?" DeMorte said somewhat snidely. "Do you have something to hide?" DeMorte smiled at the man unpleasantly.

"No sir, of course not." The young man leaning in the doorframe behind the first guard said nearly sounding annoyed. "Reynolds, would you like it if I see Mr. LeBlanc to the Eve chamber?" Renolds you are a spineless donkey with no cajones. Thought disgusted with his so-called superior.

"I would like that officer …" DeMorte said already liking the young man.

"De la Rosa. I am Marco de la Rosa at your service sir." The young man said with a nod.

"Very good Marco, lead the way." DeMorte said and watched the young security officer walk ahead of him. Either you are an asset or you are dead. I can ill afford having one such as you here if you are not an asset. DeMorte thought as they walked. "So Marco what should I know about what goes on here?"

"I think it is likely more important to be aware of what is not happening sir." Marco said as he walked with DeMorte.

"Oh really do tell Marco, do tell."


Time seemed to grind to a halt with his question. Tabby, Walter and Seras all watched and listened with a tense fascination; no matter what Blaze said it would be an order. Alucard had finally backed her into that corner where she would have actually issue him an order.

Dear lord he is testing her. Walter thought. He is testing her resolve and I think he is testing her to prove she is his child. It is something that was bound to happen and there is nothing I can do. Walter steeled himself for whatever came next.

Vlad why are you doing this now? Seras raged internally as she watched, the seconds passed from when Alucard stopped speaking and Blaze did. Each second seemed an eternity. Seras had seen Alucard pull stunts like this with Integra many times; daring her to move, daring her to either show weakness or to force her control over him. Damn it Zsophia why did you walk into his trap? He had yet to really pull this stunt with Blaze. Seras knew however it was different what she was seeing now. It was less about control over him and more about who Blaze was, in a way it was Alucard's way of truly forcing Blaze to really admit the truth of the relationship that had been forced on them. You challenged him first. What else would he do but turn the challenge back on you?

Damn it! I walked right into this one. Blaze's eyes flashed red a moment in her irritation. Blaze knew she had to follow through with this now. She took a breath and stood up no longer leaning on her desk. Alucard took two steps back to allow her room. "Very well." Blaze drew herself up and allowed that part of her that had shown forth in the Round Table Meeting to come to the forefront; it was a part of herself she preferred to hide, she allowed the energy and the force of her presence and will to really be felt. "Yes Vlad, yes Dragon. It is my wish, my order that you take the steps necessary to bring forth a court for the leading and accounting of the population of Midians in this country. You are to do what it takes to accomplish this. You will not spill innocent blood unnecessarily in this action. You will do all in your power to not create a situation that will require the forces of Hellsing to deal with. You will pursue this as quickly as you are able. You will not disrupt the operations of Hellsing in doing this." As that part of herself that she generally kept much more in check came to the forefront with her words the corners of Blaze's lips came up in a smile that was matched in its pleasure, its sensuality, its wickedness and its release only by Alucard. "You will be in deed, in fact and in name be the No-Life-King within Britain. Do I make myself clear?" Now Blaze's full attention was on Alucard. She rose to his challenge and trumped it. Those who saw them together now had no doubt of her linage, her bloodline. To see them together now as they looked at one another it was obvious it was father and daughter who stared at one another with identical smirks. Just as in the night when they first met Alucard tried to stare her down.

You never will look away will you Little One? You will never again fear me. Every challenge you have been given by the world you have met and exceeded it. Yes My Daughter you are beautiful, you are powerful, you are royal weather you like it or not. You are Dragoness. Alucard smiled and bowed deeply to Blaze. It is true you have mastered me Little One. How can a man become so easily wrapped around a finger so small? Alucard wondered as he caught sight of her hands that rested at her sides. He knew the stance; it was one he had been taught as a boy it showed strength and resolve. It exuded control and nobility. For those who knew the stance there was an obvious preparation for battle or whatever else was to happen. Alucard felt the weight of the powers that bound her as His Master pull on him, to make his knee bend to her and allowed it. "As you wish so it will be My Master." Alucard intoned smoothly. "You do realize that there are those who will balk at this, those who will cause trouble." Alucard looked up now from his knelt position into her eyes with a smile. "In order to keep Hellsing out of it there may be battles that I will have need of certain people's aid in." He smiled up at Blaze eyes flashing.

"Well then those who resist will have to be shown the error of their ways, won't they?" Blaze smiled with more than a hint of pleasure at the prospect of the battles that may come. "There are too many things going on. There are too many factions." Blaze shook her head. "We have traitors to the royal crown, we have abominations that crawl through this island as well as the world and their creator is still unknown. We have sick blood ritual slayings of people of every class now that threaten to force the revelation of the supernatural world to the general public. This revelation would bring dire consequences to many. The witch hunts of old would come back in full disgusting force. Her Royal Majesty, the Sovereign of this land has entrusted to us the power, the authority, and autonomy required to bring balance and safety to the people of this land who are blissfully unaware how very true the fairy tales they tell are." Blaze looked at Alucard with fire in her eyes. "We will not shirk this duty. We will take that which we have been granted and do the work that is needed. We will fight and we will win. Won't we Vlad Dracul?"

"Indeed we will My Master. We will use all that which is given to us, the resources at our disposal to wipe out the abominations and those who cursed this world with them. We will bring order to this island." Alucard nodded in agreement and stood. "At your command I am The No-Life-King of this country, of this island." He looked at Seras and smiled. "I have already a mate who is now The No-Life-Queen by my side." Alucard shifted his eyes to look at Blaze. "If that is, this is pleasing to you My Master."

"Yes." Blaze said with a nod. "A better mate and Queen you would never be able to find." Blaze smiled, then swallowed and nodded. "This is my decision, my wish and my order." As she said this a small shockwave of energy came from her and hit them all. It was not enough to move them but it was strong enough to make its presence known. Then Blaze raised her head. "It is done."

"Wow, um Z what was that?" Tabby asked blinking.

"It is the energy that is released with my order. It is that which binds My Dragon, My Prince made manifest." Blaze said as she looked at her shoes. Then she walked to the fireplace and stared into it. "It is that which forces him to obey me no matter what. It is that which makes him my … servant." Blaze whispered the last word. She hated it she wanted to die rather than admit their relationship and to call him servant. The other 'orders' she had given him in the past they were not orders in the same sense that this was. I am left to wonder now if part of this feeling is because he is my Father? No he is not my Father. He is my Dragon, my Prince. Part of her wanted to ask forgiveness for doing this but Her Dragon respected strength, she could only hope that she was not showing too much weakness now.

I do not understand. I never felt that same energy from Integra with her orders. Alucard pondered as he listened to Blaze's words. He heard the loathing in her voice and realized the toll it had taken on her to give him a direct order like that. He wanted to reach out to her to somehow comfort her. Alucard was very troubled by this, he had meant to challenge her she met the challenge and he was proud of her for it. He knew that eventually this is something that would have to happen. Why do I feel like a heel for doing that which was necessary?

"I don't get it." Tabby said confused and somewhat oblivious to the tension. She was staring at the couch with a puzzled look on her face. She looked over when she heard Blaze laugh.

"Ah that is our Tabby." Blaze smiled as she turned around.

"Huh?" Tabby looked at Blaze and then the others. "Oh sorry, I was just …" Tabby shrugged and looked at Ruger everyone knew if she was holding him she would give his nose a poke or play with his ear.

"You are curious." Blaze smiled. "Your curiosity is a good thing. And there is no need for me to have a pity party." Blaze said as she walked over and sat next to Walter. "Tabby you know about me and magic."

"Ummm yep. Hard to not know." Tabby said as she rolled her eyes.

"Because of that, I have never actually given Vlad a direct order like that. I told him to not be rude to Dumpling, I told him he was not to interfere in a battle I needed to do. But neither of those were an ordered action like this." Blaze explained.

"Oh, I get it." Tabby nodded. "It is one of those occasions when you cannot help but use magic. So that was the release of energy from the minor spell." Tabby tapped her lower lip as she looked at the ceiling. "The wave would only reach those who were witness to it …" Tabby narrowed her eyes. "Ok I get it."

That was a minor spell from Zsophia? Alucard wondered then he looked over his shoulder. "Walter, do you have any idea what they are talking about?" Alucard asked as he and Walter looked at one another. Walter simply shook his head no. "What the hell does this mean? Seras do you understand this at all?"

"I understand part of it. Please accept I cannot explain it Vlad. Zsophia has entrusted to me knowledge I have sworn to not reveal." Seras answered Alucard as they looked at one another. Alucard nodded.


DeMorte walked again into the room with Mala leaving young Marco to stand guard. DeMorte was determined to figure out what was different. He didn't know if it was a good or a bad thing and he did not wish to be disturbed. "Well well Mala, I have had an interesting time and conversation with a young man, one of your guards." DeMorte said as he walked across the room to where she lay bound to the table. "I am left to wonder if you had guests."

Damn how did he find out? Well DeMorte it would seem you have forced my hand then. I simply will have to contact her. Mala began to gather the energy slowly if she was too quick he could stop it.

DeMorte walked around the table circling her. "I will admit something does seem rather different about you to me." He stopped at the head of the table and stared at her as if he could dissect her with his mind. "I have a new up and comer, Marco. He is the one who noticed some odd, undocumented behaviors and actions amongst my employees here. I would chock it up to embezzlement or something as mundane as that. But some of these things are occurring around you and your room." He stepped around the table standing now near her chest. "You are shriveled up. A husk that once was so powerful. Those compounds that the tribe's assassins use are very potent. It is too bad I had to use all of it on you. I would love to know how to make it. But for now I will be content to simply admire the fruits of it power." DeMorte walked around the table then he leaned on a wall studying her. Mala continued to slowly gather energy.

Ah DeMorte now it is time for me to weave and cast my spell. I will have but one chance to make this work. Mala thought as she slowly brought all the energy.

"Mala … Mala what the hell are you doing and how?" DeMorte demanded as he strode to the table she was secured on. The moment that he touched the table Mala opened her eyes and sent out her message.

"Ashi, Ashi Hear me!" Mala sent out to Zsophia using all of her gathered energy.


"Darling, are you well?" Walter asked putting his arm around Blaze's shoulders wanting to give her comfort even as he swore to himself the next time he and Alucard sparred he would make Alucard suffer for this.

"Yes I am lover." Blaze smiled. "I guess there are things …" Blaze blinked and stood. She walked towards the large window looking confused and curious.

"Zsophia?" Walter asked.

"Ashi, Ashi Hear me!"Mala's voice resonated through Blaze's mind.

"Dear god!" Zsophia gasped and grabbed her head and fell to her knees and then to the floor.

"Zsophia?" Walter yelled as she went to her side. "Darling where are you hurt?" Walter asked as he tried to help her sit up.

"Little One!" Alucard went to Where Walter held Zsophia. "Who Dares?" He demanded as he looked for the source of this attack.

"No broken glass …" Seras said as she looked around for whatever made Blaze drop.

"Oh Crap Z!" Tabby said and fell into a couch as she left her body to see what was going on. "Oh wow! Ummm what was that?" Tabby asked as she saw what appeared to be a line that was drawn from Blaze to a point unknown. The line seemed to glow then it became as a mist then was gone.

"Mala? Mala!" Blaze called out standing up quickly enough to throw Walter off balance. "Wait! Where are you?" Blaze called out as she looked about. "Why can't I feel you now?" Blaze stood there as if she had been struck. She looked completely lost.

"Zsophia? What is wrong?" Seras asked carefully.

"I can't feel her, I can't feel Mala." Blaze breathed. "I can always feel her when I reach out." She closed her eyes tightly and everyone felt a pulling, a tugging sensation then Blaze opened her eyes which glowed red and the red aura surrounded her. "I didn't take the time to go to her when I was in Egypt. No one said anything about her when I was there! I thought she was in deep meditation or traveling" She turned until she faced the direction of Egypt. Blaze stared hard into it would seem nothing. "I can't see her. I can't find her." Blaze's voice sounded worried.

"Little One stop before you hurt yourself!" Alucard ordered. He placed his hand over her eyes. Alucard worried, for Blaze to react so quickly by using magic was beyond unusual. "Mala is not in Egypt. No one knows where she is." Alucard took his hand from Blaze's eyes and turned her to face him. "Serana came here last night to tell you of this. She believes you may be able to find Mala. Little One, how far do you trust Serana?"

"I trust her not to break the laws of hospitality." Blaze said as she looked up at Alucard. "And she is right I can find Mala and I will." Blaze pushed out of Alucard's hands. "Seras, I will need you."

"I am with you and ready." Seras said and nodded. "Shall I take Tabby to the chamber?"

"Yes please. I am sure Our Men have no intention of not finding out what is going on. Please guide them all to the Chamber. I will meet you there." Blaze said and seemed to slip through the floor.

"You heard the boss. Let's go." Seras said as she grabbed Tabby, turned and walked out the door.

"Seras where are we going?" Alucard asked as he and Walter followed her and Tabby.

"To the one place I personally know of where Zsophia is comfortable using magic." Seras said worried.

"Oh joy." Tabby sighed. "Pushed her button but good eh?"

"I guess, I really do not know much about Mala. I have never heard Zsophia talk about her. All I know is that Zsophia is worried and ticked off. That is a bad combination for anyone." Seras said as they turned a corner.

"How do you know where to go?" Alucard asked. He noticed Seras change from the comfortable trousers and sweater into her work clothes as she walked. "Seras how bad is this?"

"Can you feel her?" Seras asked.

"No I can't." Alucard said and frowned.

"We need to get to her faster. I'll shadow walk to her." Walter said as he pulled his wired gloves on.

"You can't, the room is made to keep you, me Alucard and anyone else from doing so." Seras said as they went down a flight of stairs.

"I've never seen this part of the estate." Alucard frowned.

"No big shock, here we are." Seras opened a door. All of them felt the magical energy hit them. "Ok Zsophia what are we doing?"

"Kindly come in and shut the door. Remember the shielding spell I taught you Seras?" Blaze asked as she levitated a tall and ornately carved mirror where she wanted it.

"Yes I do. Where do you want me to put the barrier up?" Seras asked as she put her leather trench coat down on a chair.

"I am actually hoping you will not need to use it. It is for just in case." Blaze said as she turned to look at them all. Her eyes showed anger and resolve; they also showed something no one there wanted to see, in them there was fear.

"Tabby I need you to make sure no on and nothing aside from me goes in or out in any way." Blaze said as she spread a powder of some sort on the floor in a circle around herself and the mirror.

"Got it Z. The energy here will play nice?" Tabby asked as she popped her knuckles and pulled out a large medallion.

"Yes because I invited you in." Blaze said the pulled out her cat's claws and put them on.

"Darling what is going on?" Walter asked confused.

"I am going to use magic, real magic. I hate it. Magic always has consequences, always." Blaze groused. "I am taking the precautions I need to. I doubted you two would be happy being left outside. It will be ok."

"Your eyes belie your concern Little One." Alucard said looking at her over his sunglasses. Now he too had shifted to his full work ensemble save for his hat. "What do we need to do to keep you safe?" Alucard asked, he did not like this at all.

"Darling can't this be something that someone else does?" Walter asked concerned. "We know you hate to use magic let someone else do this."

"I can't. I know I can find Mala no matter who or what attempts to block me out. Something is very wrong. I would do this for you, for Vlad, for Seras, for Tabby for our sons Walter." Blaze smiled weakly. "Please do not interfere."

"We will watch for now but if it becomes too dangerous for you we will act." Alucard said. "Walter if she is distracted now it could be lethal. For now we watch." Alucard thought looking at Walter.

"You are correct." All Walter could do now was nod, swallow and worry.

"Now I begin." Blaze said and let her head fall forward with her eyes closed. Soon she began to mutter strange words. Darkness began to swirl on the floor in the circle; it crept over her feet and the bottom of the legs of the mirror. It was as if shadows had become a flowing liquid or fog. Soon it began to climb up the mirror enveloping it completely. "Show me … show me …" Blaze whispered and opened her eyes.

Little One what are you doing? You need to be careful this is truly dark energies. Alucard worried as he watched the events unfolding in front of them. How can you be so sure that you can find her? What kind of magic is it that you are using? It almost looks as if my Demons are what you are using to do this work. Alucard watched every movement he opened his senses to feel any influence that may come towards them. He did this not just because Blaze is His Master but more importantly because she is His Daughter.

"Show me where is Mala; her location is to be revealed to me now!" Blaze said with strength, it was a demand pure and simple. Blaze reached within herself for the connection Mala and she had developed so many years ago. Over and over again the women had strengthened their bond through the exchange of energy and blood. Both had tied themselves to the other willingly so long ago. Now Blaze depended on that bond as she looked into the mirror. The shadowy fog seemed to flow into the mirror and swirl within its frame. Blaze reached out with her hand and seemed to wipe away the shadows. What they all saw made them gasp. Strapped to a table was a desiccated body. "Mala!" Blaze cried out in a horrified shock. As they looked at the image they saw a man's hand reach towards Mala. "NO!" Blaze shouted she made a move as if she was going to go through the mirror. "WHO DARES?" Blaze's voice thundered. Everyone saw a shadowy form with gleaming red eyes and shadowy black talons appear hovering over Mala's body.

"What the Hell?" DeMorte gasped surprised as he saw the shadowy form with glowing blood red eyes appear over Mala's body. He didn't know what much less who it was so he backed away from the table to gather himself together. "Who are you?" He demanded as DeMorte came forward again with his hand outstretched ready to grab Mala and fight whatever it was in his secure room.

"You may not touch her!" Blaze hissed. As she physically flung her arm out the shadow arm did the same. DeMorte found himself flung across the room like a rag doll. "I am Ashi." Blaze said with a hiss. "You have done harm to one I call mine!" She continued to growl as she pointed at DeMorte with fingers that ended in terrifying talons that were sharper than a razor blade. The slashes in DeMorte's clothing and flesh gave witness of that.

"Alucard, can you see who she is speaking to?" Walter asked worried. All Walter could hear was the words Blaze said as they came from her physical mouth still within the room.

"No. I can only see what the mirror shows which is some shadow form of Zsophia standing over Mala." Alucard shook his head. He watched as the shadowy form of Blaze acted in the other place in concert with the moves her physical body was making in the circle.

"Come on Z keep on task." Tabby muttered under her breath wondering what was happening through the looking glass.

"What are you?" DeMorte gasped.

"I am that which will end your wretched existence as I dance, sing and play with all that is you." Blaze smiled now all could see her sharp white teeth. "First though, I will bleed you to feed her." Blaze said as she moved off the table.

"What?" Alucard asked as he heard her words and saw movement around Zsophia's physical body still in the circle. Dark strands of the shadows began to coil around her legs and seemed to slither up her body slowly. "Tabby, what is that?"

"If Z takes too long it could be trouble." Tabby breathed. "If she doesn't have complete control of it … this could get very bad."

"I will not allow my blood to feed her!" DeMorte said with a snarl as he began to draw his gun.

"You say that as if I am going to give you a choice?" Blaze laughed. She reached out again with a slashing motion. DeMorte hollered in surprise and pain. His gun was struck from his hand. Blaze smirked and then seemed to call the blood, as all of them watched the blood flowed to Mala.

"You will not use me!" DeMorte said realizing the danger he was in. With a thought he fell back into the shadows and reappeared in his hotel room. "The Ashi is a demoness." He breathed.

"Mala, Mala speak to me!" Blaze begged as her shadow form now leaned over Mala's body.

"I hear you Little One. Thank you for coming but he will return soon and you are too vulnerable like this. I do not think you have been practicing."

"No Mala I am sorry I haven't. I cannot leave you here like this to his mercy." Blaze gasped with tears in her eyes. Mala I will hunt that bastard down for what he has done to you!"

"No you will not; at least not now. I think there is blood in that cupboard with the lock." Mala said worried now, she could feel the strengthening of the darkness that surrounded and moved within Blaze. "Use it to feed me so I may heal then escape."

"It will not be strong enough. But I know what will be." Blaze said as she extended her cat's claws. First she struck at the straps that bound Mala. The shadows talons mimicked the action and easily sliced through that which bound Mala.

"Child what are you thinking? No! Zsophia you must not do this!" Mala cried out to Blaze in her mind.

"I will do this. I will make this gift to you." Blaze said as she moved blindingly fast and used her cat's claws on her own forearms. The blades went in quickly and did their job well; almost immediately the blood began to flow from her arms.

"Zsophia! No!" Walter cried out. He moved to grab her but found himself stopped by a barrier.

"Sorry Angel but I can't let you disturb her just now." Tabby said from the other side of the barrier. She had no intention of being where Walter or Alucard could grab her. "If it gets too bad I'll drop it but not just yet."

"Walter you know as well as I that this must happen." Alucard said with a calm he did not feel. Seeing Mala tied down, drained of all blood; he was reminded of when he too was trapped like that. The horror of his mind and spirit being fully aware of all that happened around him, he knew everything that occurred on the Hellsing estate for those years of hell. He was aware but unable to move, to act, to do anything but be trapped in his dried out corpse. It was a hell like no other. It was the worst torture any could be forced to endure. He had been made to not exist and yet exist he did and he suffered. Now Alucard wanted Mala freed as well.

"Use my blood to heal my friend." Blaze said. The blood flowed from her arms then seemed to be consumed by shadows then they all saw how the blood flowed from the arms of the shadow Blaze and fell on Mala's body. Steam or something like it rose from Mala where the blood hit her skin. Then the blood was absorbed. Mala's body came back to life and filled out her hair became like warm honey her eyes shone red.

"It is enough Ashi." Mala said as she sat up being mindful that someone might hear her if she called Blaze by her proper name. "I said it is enough." Mala grabbed Blaze's arms. "Go back now before you lose control." Mala seemed to be casting something away from her. Those with Blaze's physical body saw the shadowy form of Blaze come through the mirror. As it became one with Blaze she collapsed.

"Shite!" Tabby said and dropped the barrier that she had erected. "Help her!" She cried out. Neither Alucard nor Walter needed to be told twice. "Seras keep that open just in case." Tabby pointed at the mirror portal.

"Right." Seras said with a nod and placed her hand on the frame of the mirror.

"Darling?" Walter said as he kneeled on the ground cradling Blaze in his arms.

"Vlad?" Blaze whispered.

"Yes Little One?" Alucard said kneeling next to her.

"Go to Mala and help her escape, please!" Blaze shakily raised a bloodied hand to grab onto the lapel of his coat. She had stopped bleeding almost instantly when she was touched by Mala but that blood which had flowed from her but not into Mala stained her body, her arms and hands. "Please My Dragon go to her aid, get her out of there. Do not let them do that to her again." Blaze begged in a whisper.

"I will go to her." Alucard said. He hated the idea of leaving Blaze in this weakened state; but to not go would upset her and likely make things worse.

"The blood that is on me, drink it and use it to strengthen you, hurry before the portal closes." Blaze whispered desperately.

"I will; just be still and hush." Quickly Alucard licked the blood from her hands and arms. "Promise me you will do as Walter says while I am gone. Allow Walter and Seras to protect you now."

"I will My Dragon." Blaze said and leaned on Walter. "You must return to us safely." Whispered Blaze even as she lay her head on Walters shoulder.

"Good I will return quickly. Seras close this portal once I am through it." Alucard smiled when he saw the concerned look on her face and felt Seras worry through their mating bond. "I can track you and Zsophia from anywhere on the planet to anywhere on the planet. Those men cannot do real harm to me. My Master has told me to do this. I will never fail to do My Little Master's bidding and she ordered my return" Alucard smiled and brushed his lips on Seras then after he jumped through the portal Seras shut it down.


"The Ashi is a demoness." DeMorte whispered again as he healed himself as he still sat on the floor of his hotel suite. He had no doubt she would have bled him like an animal. To her he was only that, an animal to be slaughtered to feed Mala. "You have done harm to one I call mine!" The Demoness had said. "You had to call her to you Mala. You used the energy that came from me to do it. But I had given you no blood." DeMorte wondered aloud. "That fucking Ashi assassin is a demoness that can be summoned!" DeMorte laughed. "I have her name, I have seen her. I can summon her." DeMorte got up and went to the mini bar to retrieve the bag of blood he had stashed their earlier. He quickly reached out and grabbed his phone and dialed.

"Si? De la Rosa here." Young Marco said answering his phone.

"Marco you are to leave that building now. You will come to my hotel room with no further delay. Do you understand me?" DeMorte answered. He knew that what was likely to happen next would be an absolute blood bath. He wanted to at least have Marco and a few others safely out of the building quickly.

"Si I leave now." Marco nodded and ran down the hall.

"Good man." DeMorte said as he began to dial other phone numbers. There were a few he wanted to live through this, the others could be replaced. Those who had the quickest access to the information were called to remove the data then destroy the other copies and to retreat to a place already prearranged.


"Hello Lady Mala. It has been quite a while." Alucard smiled as he appeared in the room.

"Indeed it has." Mala nodded. "What are you doing here Dragon?" Mala asked.

"I was asked to come here." Alucard said as he shot out the security cameras. "My Master bade me to get you out of here safely. I will of course do as bade by My Master." Alucard smiled again then with a wave of his hand the heavy door flung open and embedded its self into the wall. "Ladies first; I expect you are hungry; as long as it creates no danger to your escape feeding to their death is allowed."

"I am indeed very hungry. You are saying you will protect me as I feed?" Mala asked slightly confused. "I would not have ever expected this from the Helsing family."

"No Helsing is my Master now." Alucard smirked. He focused a moment and the lights in the hall seemed to disappear. "My New Master is much more realistic. Shall we? I have confused the security. Oh look here comes dinner." Alucard smiled as security men came running at them with guns drawn ready to fire. "I guess it is fast food for us both Lady Mala. Please do allow me to take the lead just now until you have become stronger." Alucard laughed, pulled out his Cassul, and began to fire on the men.


"Darling, I have you." Walter whispered to His Lady. "You must stay awake. I am going to carry you to our bedchamber.

"We have things covered here." Seras said. "I'll call Doc to meet you both with an IV for her."

"Good plan." Walter said as he lifted Blaze in his arms and was quickly on his way to their bedchamber.

"Why the hell did she do this?" Seras hissed in irritation.

"Oh come on Seras what else was she going to do? This was the safest bet and you know it." Tabby shook her head. "Z and magic is a volatile combination and we both know it." Tabby began to clean up the powder that Blaze had used to create her circle.

"Doc, this is Vic take yourself and an IV kit up to Boss. Angel is taking her to their bedchamber even as we speak." Seras nodded her head and hung up. "For the record No Tabby I do not know about Boss and magic. When it comes to her teaching it I know because she has been teaching me. But when it comes to her using it I know precisely Jack."

"I thought you understood…." Tabby frowned. "Whenever Z uses magic, I mean real magic there is a darkness that comes from within her. She could train to use it more effectively but refuses. I guess she has done some real damage to people because of it. People she liked. That is why she wanted you to be ready with the spell I was meant to keep others out you were going to be the one to keep her in."

"Wait keep her in? Do you mean like keeping her trapped?" Seras asked looking shocked as she moved the mirror back to where it belonged.

"Yes keep her in. Eventually she would wear herself out then drop. After that she would be fine. I've never seen it but I have seen the darkness. She always pulls back in time but I've only seen her use magic like that on two occasions." Tabby sighed. "Dirk and I want her to train more so she can actually use it not just bottle it up. The Hellspell made it act oddly, made her act oddly." She shrugged and put the bottles away. "Is this where things belong?"

"Yep got it in one." Seras smiled then leaned on a chair. "Zsophia works to keep all the parts of her life separate. Why?" She shook her head and slid her coat back on.

"Because she wants to keep people safe." Tabby said with a shrug. "Her world is getting so that she can't keep all the bits separate anymore. It scares her. It is why we hadn't seen much of her at the café in the last several months. When she showed up that day for lunch we all knew things would change. Dirk called it; he had said a few days before she showed up that the next time she showed up for lunch it would mean she would be around a lot more and that I would likely have a new job." Tabby closed the door behind her and Seras as they left the room. "He is good at things like that."

"Which is why you were not shocked about being drawn more into Hellsing." Seras said looking at Tabby as they walked down the hall together.

"Very true. It's all good. I knew that if I didn't want this I just had to avoid her when she showed back up again." Tabby smiled. "But I think I belong here with all of you. Besides I do love my …. OH NO! Ruger!" Tabby sighed. "He is all in pieces. Z better heal up quick. I want My Ruger back." Tabby pouted. "I am so not leaving without him!"

"No problem. I'll ask Natty make up a room for you. Probably assign you an apartment. When you want to or need to you will have a place here. I bet Zsophia will love decorating it for you." Seras laughed. "For now why not come and hang out with me in Mine?"

"Ok I will." Tabby nodded. "Ummm Seras when do you think dinner will be?"

"I'll call down and have it sent up." Seras smiled. "Keep down this hall and make a left then go to the top floor. I'll meet you there. I need to talk to a couple of people." Seras smiled and disappeared through a wall.

"That is still so cool." Tabby blinked and shook her head. "Down the hall and make a left. If I get lost I'll send up smoke signals."