6: Day 7

It's progressed, Sir Hellsing, but you seem to be doing quite well.

I'm still bleeding, Doctor.

Yes, I know. That's why we still have you on fluids. Does anything else bother you?

(Silence)

Please, Sir Hellsing, this is important for us to know to help you recover.

(Sigh) My joints ache. My muscles still hurt. I don't think my fever's gone down any; I can't tell. I still vomit every so often. What's happening inside me, Doctor?

You have decreased liver and kidney function, internal bleeding.

You've started me on clotting factors, then?

Yes. We want to get that under control as soon as possible.

Of course.

(Silence)

Doctor, how long will it take for the virus to run its course?

That…I'm afraid I can't tell you, Sir Hellsing.

What about recovery?

Within seven to fourteen days after the start of symptoms.

How does this apply to me?

You've been sick for a little more than a week, as I understand. I don't mean to put anything in your mind, but if death is to occur, it is usually within six to sixteen days from the start of symptoms.

I see. And where am I?

Not out of the woods yet, I'm afraid. I'm having the nurses monitor you closely at night while I'm not here. We're keeping a close watch on that six to sixteen day time frame.

Thank you, Doctor. And Landon?

(Sigh) We've told him to stay away from the hospital for a few days. I know how much he means to you, Integra, but you need your rest and so does he.

(Silence)

It's more than that, isn't it?

Integra?

You don't want him here to see me die, is that it?

I never said you were going to die.

You don't want him here to see me suffer and wither away while this virus eats me alive.

That sounds incredibly cruel, Sir Hellsing, I know it does. But in simplest terms, yes. He loves you, I can see that. He shouldn't have to see his sister suffer.

(Silence)

Integra?

I don't want him to see me like this….

(Sigh) I know. I promise you, when the worst is over, I'll bring him straight to you.

Will you bring him to me if I ask for him?

If the situation is extreme, yes, I won't hesitate to call him.

Thank you, Doctor.