Disclaimer: I know some of you want answers, patient young padawans! All will be revealed in time. Setting the stage for a HUGE fight involving most of the characters by now. If you thought Nero vs. Dante or Alucard vs. Anderson (the second time) was epic just you wait.
This chapter will begin to unravel who LOD is, the identity of their leader, his goal for subjugating humans and why they're creating chaos in London, Russia and New York.
Integra uncovers more information about the sinister being called forth by the vampires. She also learns they summoned it with the intent of killing specific targets. But more problems lie in the frightening new strength of the vampires whom pose a challenge even to Alucard. Turns out, there may be something devilish in their blood...
Vladimir orders his task force to find the assassin at any costs. They determine whom his next target will be based on patterns from his previous hunting grounds. And to make it worse, vampires begin targeting more politicians with Irina among the chosen victims. The wolf pack is forced to protect her at all costs.
Nero reports on his encounter. More demons are on the move. Can he protect his city and his beloved Kyrie?
Hellsing and Devil May Cry are owned/ copyrighted by Kouta Hirano and Capcom respectively. I do not own these works in any fashion, do not sue me. No really please don't.
P.S. Someone recommended I publish both this and the previous story. That's very flattering, but if I were to do so I'd find myself facing lawsuits up the wazoo.
Chapter Five- An Echo in the Dark
"Well pop, so much has change since you've been gone. The Order faces it greatest challenge yet. I bet you and grandpa never had to deal with such issues. I sure could use your advice pop" Vladimir said standing before his father's grave. It was tradition for the heir of the Sokolov bloodline to be buried on the grounds of the Order's headquarters. His father, Vladimir Sr was buried alongisde his wife Olga. Periodically Vladimir would pay respect to his deceased parents, bringing fresh flowers to their headstones and conversing.
Dressed in a black three piece suit Vladimir dug his hands into his pockets and sighed. "I've got a son now, pop. His name is Joseph. I can tell he's got your spirt. If only you could have lived to see your grandchildren surround you" he said. Mariska walked up behind him, holding a bouquet of flowers as she gently laid them down. She stood back up and tenderly stroked his back. "I know how much you miss him" she said. Vladimir held back the tears he felt coming on. He took her hand and gently held it.
"Before he died he told me he was proud to be my father, knowing he could rightly entrust the Order to me. He then said he was sorry" he began as Mariska turned to face him. "Sorry he was dying before he saw me start my own family. I told him it was ok, since he was going to go and be with mom now" Vladimir said as he finally succumbed to his emotions. A single tear fell down his left cheek which he quickly brushed away.
Michael walked up to the couple, a serious expression on his face. "Forgive me Boss but there has been another murder" he said. Despite his emotion Vladimir nodded calmly. "Alright, I'll be right there. Thank you Michael" he said watching as the alpha wolf bowed lightly and turned to walk away. Mariska held him by the arm as he turned back to his parents graves. Saying a quick prayer in Russian he then smirked. "I'll see you later dad" he said as they turned to walk away.
Vladimir eventually made his way back to his office. He sat at his desk while one of his senior officers explained the latest killing involving the assassin. Michael was in attendance, as was Raul, Sergei, and Karl. "So he killed a member of the Russian mob. Well, he certainly isn't afraid to poke the hornet's nest" he said.
"Sir, the task force is ready to go on your command" his officer said. Vladimir raised his hand. "Not yet, we still are waiting for the remaining members. Irina is bringing them with her" Just then there was a knock on the door. "Come in" Vladimir replied. The door opened and in walked a tall man with a thick stocky build. He had honey blonde hair with dull brown eyes and wore a black and gray military uniform. Vladimir instantly recognized the individual who smirked and said "You son of a bitch! When were you gonna tell me about your little party?" he said with a heavy Russian accent.
Vladimir jumped up and greeted the visitor with a vigorous hand shake. "Captain Reznov! Damn it I thought you retired!" he said. Captain Reznov smirked, "I did. But then I got bored with playing go fish with my grandkids. So I went and started up a small private security firm" Vladimir grinned, "Glad to have you back, we're really going to need your help" he said.
Captain Yuri Reznov, at 55 years old was a retired Spetznaz officer. He served with the Order of the Cross for many years before retiring right around the time Vladimir inherited the organization. A seasoned combat vet he was both a loyal and capable soldier. "How did you know about the task force?" Vladimir asked. Captain Reznov smirked, "That hot piece of ass Irina requested me. She knew our history and that I most recently served with your father" he said watching Vladimir's expression change. Raul chuckled, "Looks like she's placing more trust in you then she originally let on, Boss" he stated eliciting a relieved sigh from Vladimir.
A moment later there was a knock at the door. Karl, whom was nearest went to open it. In walked Irina, looking especially frustrated. Not to mention beautiful.
"I take it you are already aware of the situation Vladimir" she said approaching his desk. He nodded, "Yes. Captain Reznov here said you requested him. Can I ask you why you and that Klara woman are giving me so much shit then?" he asked. A hint of suspsicion crept into his voice, Irina detected it. "I can't speak for her, but as for myself. Well..." she said trailing off. "I do trust in you, Vladimir. And I do think you can accomplish the goal set before you. It's just...sometimes I have to play the game of politics just so we can see progress made. You know how it is. Please take my word for it" she said. Vladimir sighed and nodded, "Sure thing. Hell if I can convince you I'm sure I can get Klara to trust in me as well" he said. Captain Reznov, whom was now standing next to Michael on the other side of the office chuckled a little and folded his arms. "It's nice to see you again, Irina. And I must say those pants make you look especially stunning" he quipped, commenting on her figure.
She glared hard at him, "Keep your lewd thoughts to yourself" she said covering her behind with her hands. He grinned, "It's not lewd if it's true. That booty looking real nice" he said admiring her large and shapely rear end and drawing another harsh glare.
Vladimir's eyebrow twitched "So who else are we waiting for?" he asked as Irina turned back to face him. "An Interpol investigator, named Spencer Collin. He was assigned this case after I put in a request" she explained. There was another knock at the door and in walked a thin, pale skinned man wearing a gray suit. He had light blonde hair and blue eyes. "Ms. Petrova. I take it you've informed them" he said as Irina nodded. "Yes. Vladimir, this is Spencer Collin of Interpol" she said introducing him. Spencer placed his hands behind his back and spoke. "I've already made a detailed profile of this assassin and believe we know who his next target is. When ever you're ready we can begin" he said. Vladimir nodded, "Conference room, ten minutes" he said and then turned to Michael.
"I want you to take some of the pack and follow some new leads. Vampires have struck again at different areas and we think it can lead to who is ordering them around. Report back on anything you can find" he said as Michael and the others left the office.
"Pardon me but I have something to say" Spencer said approaching Vladimir's desk. "Yes?" he said. Spencer licked his lips and then said "This task force was made to find a killer. So I ask, what is your plan for approaching this man? How will you find him?" he asked.
"Well I believe we should start with his targets. They've all been criminals guilty of various actions. I say we look at who he has killed to see if there is some kind of pattern. Maybe he hunts in specific cities where there is a certain escalation of crime. Don't know yet" Vladimir answered. Spencer nodded, "Interesting but a bit too simple. Don't you think we at Interpol have already tried that? But no matter. And what about them?" he asked gesturing towards Captain Yuri and the others. "They're assisting you" Vladimir stated. Spencer made a shrill look of displeasure but quickly hid it. "Fine. So long as they aren't incompotent" he said turning and walking out the office.
"This guy sounds like a real douche" Captain Reznov said frowning. Irina looked at him. "He's...difficult. But he can help us get the task done" she said. Vladimir sighed, "We're gonna need it" he said.
Over at Hellsing...
It was well in the late afternoon at the Hellsing headquarters. Integra sat at yet another meeting of the Round Table. Drumming her fingers on the desk she sighed. "Any changes or developments, Sir Integra?" asked one member watching as she turned to him.
"There have been, yes. For starters, we now know these aren't random attacks. There's a group out there moving the vampires about" she began to explain. Sir Penwood's eyes widened. "Moving them about, for what purpose?" he asked. "We don't know yet" she answered.
Sir Islands spoke, "Well what have you learned then, Sir Integra?" he asked. Integra sighed and crossed her legs.
"Firstly, the vampires are running scared. They have been fighting back against whoever is moving them about. To do that, they took drastic steps. A vampire recently encountered shed light that they did not want to be used apparently, for a certain action. And in their desperation...they summoned something" she said. Silence broke out, "What is it they summoned?" asked Sir Penwood.
Integra put on her most serious face. "We have only a warning, as well as a name. 'Beware He Who Walks On All Fours. Beware the Oboro'" she said. "Oboro? Are you suggesting that these vampires summoned some sort of ghost or Boogeyman?" another member asked with sarcasm leaking in his voice. Integra narrowed her eyes as she stared at him. "It could be anything at this point. But that isn't the bad part. They lost control of it apparently. Now the vampires are running because of this...entity they summoned. But there's more. Alucard and Seras had an encounter recently with a group of vampires. Alucard used his weapons on them but to no avail. These vampires took slugs fired from killing range to their vital areas and lived. Alucard shot them in the head, heart and chest but they shrugged the blessed silver rounds off like nothing. He also reported that their physical strength was phenomenal, enough even to challenge him. It seems the vampires were given something to drastically increase their strength. We also don't know what it is. Gentlemen, this situation is growing more and more severe" Integra said.
"Enough strength to challenge Alucard. And he's the most powerful vampire we've ever encountered. Good God almighty..." Sir Penwood said shaking and wiping his brow.
"Oh quit your whining, honestly" said Alucard who phased through the floor and causing some members to jump slightly. Reaching full height he narrowed his eyes and frowned, his piercing gaze sending chills to some of the members. "Honestly I find this all quite exciting. At last I have found adversaries worthy of my powers. When these vampires strike again, I will kill them all" he said grinning and exposing his fangs. Integra rolled her eyes as Seras then burst into the room, panting. "Apologies Sir Integra. I DID try and stop him" she said walking over and frowning at her master.
"That's alright Seras. He always did enjoy the theatrics" Integra said smirking. The meeting continued as they discussed the growing escalation with the vampires.
Evening soon came as Integra sat back in her office. Walter entered, looking quite disturbed. "Sir Integra, we have a problem. We've just uncovered some startling information on that name, Oboro" he said as she looked up. Walter fixed his glasses, pulled out a long sheet of paper and began reading it.
"Oboro, He Who Walks On All Fours is the spirit of vengeance and destruction. Oboro began as a young human child who had been placed with a terrible curse which transformed his physical being into an agent of the Devil. In doing so, Oboro was bred to be used as an instrument of death. The Oboro can be summoned by any being who so wishes if they complete the necessary steps. First a number of human sacrifices must be gathered. Their hearts and brains must be offered and their bodies drained of blood. Once complete the Oboro can be conjured by the user if they recite the proper incantation. Once summoned Oboro is bound by spirit to the life of the conjurer. So long as he/she lives Oboro will never die. Oboro will proceed to kill and devour all the summoner wishes to die and in doing so further strengthen his power. He cannot be sated by any reasoning or appeasement. He is the very nature of death, destruction, malice and vengeance. Beware He Who Walks On All Fours. Beware the Oboro"
That was it. Walter dropped the paper on his desk and noticed Integra's look of horror. "Christ Almighty" she said sitting straight. "Walter, we need to try and find the one who summoned it" she said. Walter sighed, "It gets more complicated then that. It turns out this thing wasn't just summoned so the vampires could fight back. Whoever is controlling them has now taken control of it. We've collected information indicating they plan to use the Oboro for a specific purpose. Madam, they're using Oboro to target specific people" Walter explained.
"What people? And for what? What is their goal?" Integra asked practically shouting. She was now standing to her feet, looking more frustrated. The more answers they turned up, the more questions brewed. Walter was about to answer when the door burst open and in walked a Hellsing operative. "Sir Integra we've made a major breakthrough. We've compiled a list of all possible targets we believe the vampires plan to target" he said walking over and pulling out a sheet of paper and handing it to her. Integra's eyes scanned the list as she read.
"Copenhagen, Denmark
Paris, France
Moscow, Russia" at the mention of Russia Integra gasped.
"Oh Jesus. Vladimir's people" she said. A moment passed before she continued reading.
"Buenos Aires, Argentina
Sao Paulo, Brazil
Rome, Italy
Los Angeles, California
New York, New York"
The list ended and Integra sighed. "I'll contact the Order of the Cross. They are tracking their own vampire problem and it could be connected. In the mean time let's continue to use our resources and find this group" she said as they began a discussion on how to go about finding the group.
Over in New York...
Mayor Stewart lay strapped to the table, her head held low as she whimpered. "Tch tch tch. Now now, no harm will come to you. Not yet at least. We have a few more steps to complete before you are no longer needed" a voice said approaching. She looked up, seeing the same man from before. Wearing a black cloak with the hood pulled over his face. He had a steel gray mask with thin slitted eye slots. The Mayor flinched, "Why are you doing this? Are you guys terrorists or something?" she asked. The man chuckled and tenderly stroked her cheek.
"Far from it, my dear. Before I can asnwer your question I must ask this. Do you believe in God my dear?" he asked. She hesitated before answering confidently, "Yes I do" she said. He nodded, "And do you believe in an all powerful, all knowing, all good God? You know, as has traditionally been portrayed by the church?" he questioned. She didn't respond, he face showcasing her emotions. "What does that matter?" she asked as he began pacing.
"Tell me: If there is a God, whom wields unlimited power. Why has he forsaken you? Why have you been left to a fate only comparable to Hell? Why has he allowed one of his faithful to be abducted and held hostage?" he challenged. Mayor Stewart paused before answering. "Well...I mean...he hasn't abandoned me. It wasn't my fault. You guys took me against my free will!" she yelled. His piercing green eyes locked unto her, causing her to flinch. Walking, he folded his arms behind his back and stared coldly.
"And therein lies the issue. Free will. We have fought since the rise of the church against such an the time has come finally. We will free mankind from that illusion and usher in an age of peace" he explained. Mayor Stewart widened her eyes before her face formed a dark scowl. "Peace? You people murderd my husband! You take me as your hostage and you've been killing and terrorizing the people of this city. And you say it's all in the name of peace? How? Why? It doesn't make sense" she shouted.
He remained calm, despite her outrage. "You simply do not see. We shall open your eyes. In time, my dear" he said turning to walk away. "Wait!" she called out to him. He turned back to face her. "You guys have been doing this since the rise of the church. So are you telling me there are more of you freaks out there? What other places are suffering because of your actions?" she asked. He stared before answering. "New York, London, Moscow. America, Britain, Russia. We are stirring conflict in these places. Our goal is simple: We are bringing an end to humanity's adherence to its greatest lie; freedom. As I said before, in time, you will see" he said and walked away leaving the Mayor to ponder his cryptic response.
"We will free mankind from that illusion, and usher in an age of peace"
The Leader of LOD exited the room where the Mayor was being kept and paused. Tristan leaned against the wall, arms folded. "You seemed to enjoy that. Tell me, how long do we let her live now that you've gone and explained our goal?" he asked. The Leader scoffed, not facing him. "Until we raise it up. It's already been 2 and a half days since we released that we have her. We summon it tonight and unleash it into the city. The Nightstalkers will be sure to act quickly. It's all going exaclty as I expect" he said. "I have long dreamed of this moment. Since our group first formed at the dawn of the church. The time has come for us to achieve our goals. No more waiting. No more plotting. It all leads to this" he said looking over his shoulder.
"Remain here with Victoria. Await my next orders. I'm going to the site now to prepare" he said walking away. Tristan watched his departing form and sighed.
Across the city, the Nightstalkers were busy trying to find the location Mayor Stewart was being held in. Both Sion and Seth entered Rosette's office as she was speaking on the phone.
"No I can't disclose that information. I said I can't do it. I can't! Right. Uh huh. Uh huh. Look I'm not going to say it again. Good bye" she snapped and slammed the phone on the reciever. Seth smirked, "More journalists?" he asked watching as she glared harshly. "These idiots are driving me crazy! We're trying to save the Mayor of New York City and they're getting in the way poking their nose in every part of the investigation. Ugh!" she said rubbing her temples.
Sion nodded, "So what's the latest intel?" he asked. Sighing she straightened herself in her chair. "You guys are going to take a group of agents and raid the East Warehouse. We believe the Mayor is being kept there. If you find her you are to return her unharmed. Kill anything that interferes and I mean ANYTHING. We still don't know exactly who LOD is or what they're capable of so we need to bring the hammer down on them. Return the Mayor at all costs" she said as they nodded. "We'll bring her back, I promise it" Seth said as he and Sion turned to leave.
Sion and Seth made their way to armory and began loading up on weapons. Sion loaded an MP5 rifle before grabbing two 9mm pistols. Seth, loading shells into a shotgun turned to his partner. "So how many agents we bringing?" he asked. Sion shrugged, "30, a small strike force. We have some information indicating vampires will be at the site so we need to be extra cautious" he said turning and grabbing two mini-Uzi's.
Seth laughed, "Vampires eh? Been a long time since I fought any suck heads. This is gonna kick ass" he said excitedly. Sion rolled his eyes and then chuckled.
Back in Rosette's office she was filing through some folders in a large cabinet opposite her desk. She was busy with her task she did not notice her office door slowly creak open. Or the uniformed gentlemen tiptoe his way inside. Rosette bent over her desk as she spread the sheets out in a neat order. The man, now walking closer took his hand and proceeded to smack her on the behind. Leaving his hand there, he helped himself to a generous feel. Rosette rolled her eyes, smirked and then said "Do I have to call security and tell them there is a pervert harassing me in my office?" she said smiling.
"Hhhmm, only if you would like to see me in handcuffs" he answered chuckling. Removing his hand and laughing. Rosette stood to full height and turned to face him. "I wish you would quit sneaking up on me like that Dex" she said. Dexter nodded, "I know, that's why I do it" he said grinning ear to ear. Rosette sat against her desk and folded her arms. "So...did you come pay me a visit just to play grab ass?" she asked. Dexter shook his head. "I'm heading the strike force to find the Mayor and bring her back. We leave in 15 minutes" he explained. At that moment Rosette realized she had never gotten a good look at him.
Dexter was about 5'11 with wavy black hair reaching his chin. He had brown eyes and russet colored skin. He was wearing a SWAT uniform, preparing to lead his team to their mission. Looking him up and down she nodded. "Ok, be careful. I've had this gnawing feeling ever since we were put on this case. Dexter, these guys are planning something. Bigger then their abduction of the Mayor. Something terrible is going to happen" she said seriously. He smirked, "Don't sweat it. We'll get the Mayor back, I promise" he said.
Rosette smiled and walked up to him, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Please be careful Dex, for our sake" she said. Dexter smiled and gently took her by the waist. "I promise, my lady" he said letting go of their embrace and turning to leave her office. She prayed they would accomplish their task.
Over on Fortuna...
Nero walked down the long hall of the Order's headquarters. Behind him he heard his name being called out. "Nero! Hey Nero!" It was Kyrie, as she ran to catch up to the young knight. Nero turned and smiled, "What's up Kyrie?" he said as she caught up to him. "I heard what happened in the forest. Are you alright?" she asked concerned. "Yeah yeah I'm ok. I'm going to let Seishiro know that something's up" he said turning and walking as she kept pace. "Why? What's happening?" she asked.
"There's something going on in the forest. The demons are growing more bold. I don't know why" he said. Nero didn't mention his encounter with the two members of LOD. Kyrie's eyes widened, "Oh my gosh. Well I'm sure you can stop them" she said. Nero then stopped, turning to face her completely. "Look Kyrie, please be careful. I don't want you getting hurt. Don't go into the forest, no matter what" he pleaded. Kyrie looked into his eyes and smiled, "Ok I promise. Go and see Seishiro. We'll talk later" she said and gave him a quick kiss on his face. Kyrie then turned and walked past as Nero smiled and continued on.
Entering Seishiro's office, he watched as the Supreme General looked up. Folding his legs he nodded, "So what happened?" he asked. Nero explained everything, particularly his battle with the members of LOD. Seishiro's brow formed into a hard cold glare. "Damn. Now we have to worry about these goons? Alright. Here's the deal, for now I want you to keep your eyes open. You see anything I mean anything weird or suspect you are to report directly to me. Nero, more demons are on the move. Several of our knights had an encounter with a band of them near the port. They all had that strange mark you mentioned branded unto their bodies. It sounds like whoever these guys are, they're controlling them and moving them towards some purpose" he explained.
Nero smirked, "And here I thought this was just another boring hunt" he quipped. Seishiro stared at him. Sighing he stood to his feet and began pacing. "There's something else Nero. Something even you have never encountered" he said seriously as Nero folded his arms.
"When our knights fought the demons, they encountered a new type of enemy. They...looked like ordinary people except they had blood red eyes with greenish pupils. They had massive pulsing veins around their eyes and long fangs. They had strength, speed and power to rival a devil" Seishiro said as Nero frowned. "Ok so what the hell were they? Fairies?" he cracked. Seishiro didn't flinch as he uttered the word.
"Vampires"
Nero blinked and stared, trying to see if it were a joke. Chuckling he shook his head and patted him on the shoulder. "Ok man, sure thing. And I'm Count Dracula" he said smirking.
"Damn it Nero I'm serious! These were true to life out of the movies vampires! Complete with the pale skin and sharp fangs. We have never encountered vampires before. Ever. This is serious. We are dealing with forces beyond our experience" he explained. Nero sighed and waved his arms. "Yeah yeah I hear ya. Vampires. So now what?" he asked.
Seishiro sat down at his desk. "These were unlike any vampires I had ever heard of. So...I don't know. I'll keep you posted if anything new turns up" he said. Nero shrugged then turned to walk away, leaving Seishiro to ponder the events.
Back in Russia...
"Alright so let's get started" Vladimir explained taking a seat. The task force was finally beginning to move into action. Sitting at the head of the table Vladimir watched as Spencer moved around the other members of the team, handing them several sheets. Aside from Vladimir, Captain Reznov, and Irina there were the other three members of the task force. An ex British Special Forces member named Dominic Taylor; a stocky and husky man with thick black hair. A former Navy SEALS named Derrick Johnson; a tall heavily muscled black man with short hair and an ex Russian Intelligence officer named Dmitry Alexeyev who was a short man with curly brown hair.
"For the past thee years I've been compiling a profile of the assassin that I believe will aid our investigation" Spencer said standing on the other side of the table. "Based on his killings I was able to detect a pattern. His first target is always someone convicted of a sexual crime. Rape, pedophilia, prostitution. Every kind of deviancy you can think of" he explained. Vladimir calmly locked his fingers together and narrowed his eyes. The rest of the team flipped through the papers as Spencer explained his profile.
"You said his first target is always a sexual criminal. Any reason why? Was this guy a victim of a sex crime or something?" Captain Reznov asked. Spencer shrugged, "We don't know exactly. I suspect that he knew someone who was a victim themselves. Perhaps a friend, lover or a family member. The reason being: All his victims guilty of sexual crimes were usually killed in the most brutal and violent ways. Decapitations, stabbings, burnings. He's eh...creative. An investigator from Europol told me that when they raided a site of his latest killing. They found his target, a serial rapist half submerged in a vat of acid and lime" he said grimly. Irina, who had been listening felt her gorge rise as she coughed and cleared her throat.
"Such anger and rage" Dmitry said. Spencer sighed and crossed his arms. "This man, whoever he is, is out for blood. To get to the point the pattern goes like this. He first targets sexual criminals. Then he goes for the mob bosses and crime lords. Then the thieves and con artists. Lastly, the murderers. If we follow this pattern we should be able to get a very good idea of who his next target will be" Spencer said finishing his profile. Vladimir nodded, "Thank you. Ok does anyone have an idea to input?' he asked.
Captain Reznov spoke. "I'll look into convicted thieves, con artists, swindlers. The whole deal. See if there any who have been released from prison or were never convicted and see if we can get any leads" he said. "Ok good. The rest of you use the profile and try and get a lead on his movements. He killed Igor in St. Petersburg. Who knows where he will wind up next. And one last thing" he said as everyone turned to face him.
"Find this man at any cost. And I mean ANY cost. I don't care if you have to go through Heaven and earth. Find this man and bring him to justice" Vladimir declared strongly.
The task force was thrown into force as the group pooled their resources to find the assassin and bring him to justice. Three hours later, Vladimir was back in his office, reading through papers when the door knocked. "Come in" he said. In walked Irina, as he looked up. "What's up?" he asked. She folded her arms and smirked, "The task force has a list of five individuals suspected of crimes including theft and ponzi schemes. We've sent agents to the various targets to stake them out. If he turns up, they'll be ready" she said. Vladimir sighed relief and said "Ok good. See? We're atleast making some progress. So you can add that in your report to the Prime Minister" he said watching her jaw drop.
Quickly closing it she cleared her throat. "How did you know about that?" she asked. Grinning he said, "I'm not dumb, Ms. Petrova. I know why specifically you were chosen to oversee the teams investigation. Your husband was part of the adminstration of the Prime Minister and among his most trusted advisors. So it was only natural you'd want in on this. I just wish you'd forget playing politics and instead do your job" he said.
Irina stared at him for a while before smoothing out her pants. Vladimir sighed, "Look. Just help me catch this guy. That's all I'm asking" he said. Irina shrugged, "Like I told you. I do trust you. I hope you do catch this man. Just understand politics is my job. I have to approach this situation a certain way in order to that job and that means both being a politician, and playing politics. Do you understand?" she asked as he growled and waved his hand. "Yeah yeah. But do me one favor? Tell that Klara chick to ease down a little. I can't stand listening to her half the time" he said as she laughed. "Will do. Now if you will, I bid you good day" she said turning to leave.
Watching her leave Vladimir was interrupted by his phone ringing. Picking it up, he was surprised by who was on the other line. "Hello Vladimir, it's Sir Integra" she said. Smiling Vladimir chuckled, "Good to hear from you. I was actually going to contact you. We've got a sticky situation here that keeps getting messier" he said.
Integra spoke. "Look Vladimir I will cut right to the point. I believe your people, your Order and your city is in grave danger. There is a mysterious being out there and I believe it will soon target your forces. I don't know how or when" she said.
Vladimir's line grew deathly silent. He inhaled and slowly spoke. "Ok, so what we talking about vampires? I just sent my pack to track some leads" he said. "No, something worse. Something they were running scared from. Vladimir, something they summoned" Integra said.
"Wait wait. What do you mean 'summoned?'"
"In London we were tracking a spike in vampire activity. We eventually deduced that the vampires were running from a terrible force they summoned to fight back against some unknown foe. Now they've lost control and it has been killing them off."
"Great. What force? Who are the vampires fighting against?"
"We have only a name and a warning. Beware the Oboro. We think it's some kind of demon they summoned"
"Christ.." Vladimir said. First the assassin, the vampires and now a demon? How much was he expected to handle?
"There's more"
"Isn't this enough?" he said grimly.
Integra hesitated before saying "Alucard and Seras recently had an encounter with a group of vampires. They wielded unbelievable strength, enough even to challenge Alucard. They were apparently given something to increase their power" she said.
"What were they given?"
"Keep in mind, this information is brand new. Vladimir, they were given demon blood" she said.
Vladimir dropped the phone and slunk back into his chair. He ran a hand through his hair and picked it back up. "Are you telling me they drank blood from a fucking demon? God what is going on?" he shouted. Integra sighed, "I don't know. You need to warn your people and stay alert. I'm giving you this information as an ally...and as a friend. Please stay safe" she said and hung up.
Vladimir stood to his feet, swore in Russian and began pacing around his office. After five minutes he finally settled down. With a deep and heavy sigh he dropped to his knees and bowed his head "Lord, please gve me strength" he prayed earnestly before he was interrupted. His phone rang once more, this time it was Michael.
"Boss, we got a problem" the alpha wolf stated. Vladimir sighed, "Tell me".
"We tracked down that lead and it lead us underground. I mean literally. We followed a group of vampires who had been congregating in the city's subway stations and sewers systems. They were planning for some weird ritual but we stopped it"
At the mention of ritual Vladimir's eyes widened. "Michael"
"Yes?"
"Did they happen to mention a name? Maybe something like..Oboro?"
"...That's exactly what they said"
"Fuck"
"What?"
"Look Michael, get the pack and find as much information as possible. These fuckers are planning something. I got a call from Sir Integra and she relayed some starling new information" Vladimir said.
"It can't be worse then what we just found out" Michael answered back. "What do you mean?" Vladimir asked. "We got a list of names. Vladimir, they're targeting more politicians"
"Shit. I just got them to ease off with this whole assassin deal." Vladimir said agitated. Michael hesitated before saying "Two of the names on the list, were Klara and Ms. Petrova" he said.
Vladimir slammed his fist down on the desk. "Damn it she just left five minutes ago! They have a trap set for her. Go and stop these vampires. I'll organize a small squad to find and bring Klara here to the agency. Go to Irina's home in Barvikha, in the Odintsovsky District. You guys have to hurry. And listen: I don't care who you have to go through. If you face any I mean any opposition you are to crush it instantly. I don't care who you have to tear through. Do not let these fiends carry out their plan! Strike hard and fast. Even if you have to break through blood and flesh and blood. If anyone I mean anyone stands in your way or tries to stop you then bring down the wrath of Heaven. Find and protect Irina Petrova at any cost. Do you understand me?" Vladimir shouted into the phone with intense passion. From the other end, Michael began laughing.
"HAHAHAHA. Oh MAN that's rich! It's been ages since you've given us such an exciting task. All these years Vladimir, you truly are your father's son. Then by your orders sir, we shall carry out this task. I can hardly wait" Michael said hanging up. With a wide grin he turned to his pack whom looked at him curiously.
"Our orders: Kill them all" he said as they howled in response. Michael then took lead as they headed for their next assignment.
Back in New York...
Mayor Stewart watched as Tristan sat across from her, holding a small watch. Victoria was pacing back and forth. Her hands on her hips as she smiled wickedly. Tristan placed his watch away and said "It is time. Do it Victoria" he said folding his arms. Victoria laughed and walked over to the Mayor who flinched at her approaching form.
"I told you we'd have our fun time. See one thing you'll learn about me is" she said leaning close to the Mayor who turned away in disgust. "I always, get my way. If I want someone, I simply take them. Whether they want it or not" she said gently kissing her on the cheek and lingering. Victoria reached behind and pulled out a large knife. The Mayor turned back to face her. "You will never get away with this. Even if you kill me there are people in this city who will make sure you pay for what you do. I swear it to you now. Someone will make you answer to justice" she said glaring at her captive.
"Spoken like a true politician!" Tristan said laughing loudly. Victoria smirked, she moved the knife against the bare flesh of the Mayor's stomach. "Such fire. Such passion. It always does turn me on when my prey talks big. Now for the fun part. What to do first? Do I go straight for the jugular and watch you bleed out? Or" she said moving it against her chest. "Do I just lob off these massive melons of yours like I threatened earlier? Decisions decisions" she said stepping back and cocking her hips. The Mayor turned to her. "Go to hell" she growled.
Victoria licked her lips and then said "I think I'll cut your tongue out first. Then we'll see what happens from there" she said moving the blade. Victoria prepared her grisly and sadistic pleasure but was halted by a loud crash overhead. The ceiling exploded, sending debris crashing down. Victoria and Tristan jumped back and watched as a tall and well built man wearing a black vest jumped down to his feet. "Now now" he began. "I believe you're due to show more respect to the Mayor of New York City" he cracked and grinned widely. Strapped across his back was a double edged sword resembling a Chinese jian, only bigger and a uniquely designed shield.
Victoria hissed in severe agitation as she and Tristan quickly pulled out firearms and pointed. Seth smirked and snapped his fingers. In an instant, the entire warehouse was immediately stormed by dozens of Nightstalker agents. Dressed in full riot and SWAT gear and wielding UMP 45 rifles they took tactical positions close to where Victoria and Tristan were cornered by Seth.
"FIRE! Kill them then get the Mayor!" Dexter roared as he took position and cocked his rifle preparing to fire. Tristan shouted. "Amush! Now!"
In bright flashes of red light, vampires armed with assault rifles began phasing around the ware house. They opened fire, beginning a massive fire fight between them and the Nightstalkers. Dexter took cover behind a wall, firing from his UMP 45.
Seth quickly pulled out his two pistols strapped around his waist and began opening fire as Victoria and Tristan dashed about. Seth fired, shooting three vampires in the head and causing their brains to blow out. "Sion! NOW!" he shouted.
From above, Sion dropped down and opened fire with his two mini-Uzis. Seth and Sion now stood back to back, firing and killing vampires. "Seth! Get the Mayor and get out of here! We'll take care of this" he said watching as Seth ran over to the Mayor.
Bullets flew through the air as both forces engaged in their gun battle. Victoria and Tristan were pinned down behind a slab of concrete. "Shit they're going to get her!" she roared as she took cover and reloaded her pistol. Tristan swore, unloading rounds from his shot gun before ducking and pumping in more shells.
"Look, so what if they get her. Don't forget our fall back plan" he said opening fire again. Victoria swore one last time and continued firing.
Seth made his way to the Mayor and cut down her restraints as she fell to his arms. "Mayor Stewart my name is Seth. I am with the Nightstalkers and we're here to rescue you" he said reaching for a nearby blanket and wrapping her in it. "Oh thank God for you people. Those people..they...they were going to kill me" she whimpered.
Seth grinned and gently picked her up in his arms. "It's ok. You are safe now" Seth then turned when he stopped. He sniffed the air twice. Looking over at Sion he did the same as both men put on a serious expression. "What is it?" the Mayor asked worridly. Seth said "It seems this little rescue will be delayed. Something big is coming. And it smells mean" he said.
The floor to the warehouse began rumbling, temporarily ending the fighting. Victoria then grinned sadistically as Tristan began laughing. "Well about damn time he showed up" she said. The ground rumbled and quaked before there was a large BOOM sound. The floor of the warehouse then sank in before exploding out sending debris and concrete flying everywhere and forcing the Nightstalkers to find cover. The air was then pierced by a deep rumbling as something massive began digging through the floor.
Seth and Sion, who had moved out of the area with the Mayor took cover and watched as an enormous and gargantuan behemoth began erupting from the floor. The creature used its massive hands to dig through as it came to the surface. Sion spat, "So...he has joined them. Pfft, how befitting I suppose" he said. Seth gently sat the Mayor down next to Sion as he stood to full height. "Hey man. Me and him have a bone to pick. Stay with the Mayor and I'll handle it. Things get crazy, you go ahead alone and get her to safety" he said as Sion nodded.
The creature finally came to full view as the Nightstalker soldiers stared in fear and awe. Dexter widened his eyes as he said "What...the hell is that?"
Standing before them was a massive lizard like creature resembling a Komodo dragon and measuring roughly 60 feet long. It had two heads, each covered in blue, purple and light green scales with a yellow horned crest above each eye. The beast had a long scaly tail and a thick scaly hide covered in scars with rows of fearsome spines along its back. The creature flicked its tongue from both mouths, opened and then let out a deep loud roar which shook the air.
Sitting atop the beast, on a saddle strapped around its neck was a man with long black dread locks, dark colored skin, glowing yellow eyes and wearing brown pants and an open black vest. Strapped to his back were two large double bladed axes. The man, scanned the room before setting his eyes on Seth who had approached the beast. Grinning and exposing his fanged teeth he said "Seth..it's been too long. I finally get my chance to kill you once and for all" he said ominously.
Seth simply reached and pulled out his sword and shield. The sword had a black handle with a circular cross guard designed with the yin yang pattern. He waved it around before taking a stance; his sheild held in front of him in a phalanx position with his sword pointed. "Rashkor. This time I'll be sure to cleave your head in two" he growled.
Victoria and Tristan then took the time to jump on top the large lizard beast. "Enough for now Rashkor. Let them have the Mayor. We have more important matters to attend to now" Tristan said. "The Leader is going forth with the ritual at the site now. We have somewhere else to be right now. Come it's time to go" he said. Victoria rolled her eyes and pouted. "No fair, I was just getting to have my fun" she whined. At that point the vampires took the time to jumped into the massive hole left by the beast, escaping their fight.
Rashkor stared hard at Seth. A sinister and murdeorus gaze. It didn't phase Seth whom had never broken his defensive stance. "You don't know how lucky you are. Next time Seth, I will enjoy ripping your heart and tearing you apart with my bare hands. I promise you" he said snapping the harness. The lizard roared in response and began tunneling again back down into the hole it made. Leaving behind a ruined battle scene.
Seth waited for a minute, and then gently lowered his sword and shield. Dexter cocked his rifle and walked over. "What in God's name was that Seth?" he asked. Sighing, Seth stared at the hole. "That...was Rashkor. The Beast Tamer. I've fought against him numerous times. He's relentless, extremely powerful and a vicious fighter" he explained sheathing his sword.
Dexter waved his hand, "Alright. Move out, secure our weapons and equipment and clear out. The Mayor has been rescued and our job is done" he ordered as the agents began clearing the scene. Seth walked back over to where the Mayor and Sion were. The Mayor, looked absolutely stunned. "You were...you were going to fight that..that thing by yourself?" she shouted. Seth shrugged, "Well yeah. I've got beef with that asshole" he said simply. Mayor Stewart looked in astonishment at both Seth and Sion. "Incredible.." she said.
And lastly...
The site was set as the Leader entered the ceremony. Surrounding a large fire, sitting in a circle were eight vampires. Dressed in dark brown robes, holdings hands, rocking back and forth and chanting. They increased their chanting, growing louder and more frantic.
The Leader approached the fire, holding a container. He opened it and set it down. Stepping back he watched as one vampire stood and began the incantation.
"Oboro, the Spirit of Vengeance and Destruction. Here my call bringer of death. Come forth to us and vanquish our enemies. Bring vengeance on those who cross you and destroy all in your path" he recited.
The chanting grew more intense before the vampires began screaming and hissing. The fire before them erupted in a swirling vortex of inferno. It died down before being reduced to a small flame. After a few moments it increased in size, illuminating the darkened ceremonial room.
In the flames, a massive figure began forming. It had large glowing red eyes. The figure continued growing in size until it stepped out the flames. The beast rumbled low, scanning between the vampires whom now cowered away and the Leader. It locked its gaze on the Leader, for a long time before roaring, a terrible sound that shook the air. Oboro, He Who Walks On All Fours was now in control of LOD.
The Leader cocked his head. "You can understand me correct? Feel my thoughts?"
It blinked twice before snorting.
"Then know this. Your enemy shall die tonight" The Leader said chuckling. He then ordered Oboro to go after his next victim. The terror would soon begin.
End Chapter
Sorry it took so long got caught up with some other stuff. Next chapter, HUGE fight. Anderson and the assassin finally clash in a massive battle. The assassin proves a dangerous opponent, even for the powerful priest as he reveals frightening powers the likes of which Anderson has never faced.
The wolf pack arrive just as Irina is ambushed and about to be killed. Expect a blood bath as the Werewolves show their power as a pack. Lastly, Vladimir contacts Dante and asks for his aid in dealing with the powerful new vampires.
Oboro, now unleashed in New York goes on a brutal rampage culminating in a violent encounter in the subway systems leaving many dead and the city in a state of panic. LOD has summoned up this deadly creature but for what purpose?
Lastly Hellsing encounter members of LOD while they search for the ones feeding demon blood to the vampires. Can Alucard and Seras defeat their opponents?
Next chapter coming soon. Thanks for reading and stay tuned! Also be patient, all will be revealed in the next coming chapters.