Disclaimer: Two more chapters before the big free for all. To give you a little tease, let's just say fists, fangs, and fur will fly. There will also be blood. Lots of blood.
The Oboro has left a swath of destruction in the subway system concluding its gory rampage. The Nightstalkers are called in to find and eliminate the dreaded beast. Sion along with Seth and Dexter form two teams to hunt it down. The trail takes them deep underground where they encounter savage horrors; a sickening ritual by members of LOD and the awakening of a long forgotten slumbering nightmare.
In England Alucard finishes the duel with the member of LOD who then warns the vampire count of coming terror. His opponent also reveals to him a little of what their plans are and why vampires have been given demon blood. Even going as far as to tempt Alucard with greater power. Will the Hellsing family's greatest warrior succumb to the lure of demon blood?
Vladimir is forced to deal with the aftermath of the assassin's duel with Anderson. His forces discover that the vampires are under the control of LOD. The mysterious group plots to use the vampires to target a select group. Dante finally arrives and lends his aid as they seek out their undead foes.
Hellsing and Devil May Cry are owned/copyrighted and distributed by Kouta Hirano and Capcom respectively. I do not own these works so do not sue me.
Chapter Seven- The Nightmare Begins
New York was in an intense grip of turmoil and panic. The Oboro had left a swath of destruction in the wake of its grisly feeding. Times Square was a mess: The popular area was now entirely shut down to the public as law enforcement took over to contain the situation.
Helicopters flew through the air. The streets were now filled with firefighters, EMT's and paramedics whom tended to any wounded and carried out the deceased. The NYPD, along with the FBI had deployed several tactical units into the station, attempting to control the situation. A large van carrying heavily armed SWAT officers pulled up to the corner of 42nd and 7th Avenue. Jumping out, Dexter spat on the ground, pulled out his radio and began furiously shouting as he was followed by four other officers.
"Look I don't care how long it takes. I want this entire area shut down. No civilians, no bystanders and for Christ's sake no goddamn press! Any trespassers shall be placed under arrest. Got it?" he shouted and holstered his radio. His group walked up to the subway entrance on Times Square. A police captain waved at him and ran to meet. "What kind of damage we talking Captain?" he asked grimly. The captain likewise had a similar reaction.
"Well it's a fucking blood bath as you can expect. Our estimates are at 55 wounded, 150 dead and 25 missing. We're told to be prepared for that toll to rise as the evening continues" he stated. The Captain then grabbed his radio. "Murphy what's going on down there? Where are those goddamn EMT's I called for?" he said walking away.
Dexter took the time to view the chaotic scene before him. Police sirens wailed through the night air. Ambulances loaded wounded or dead victims. Fire fighters were busy shouting into their radios. FBI SWAT as well as NYPD units set up barriaces keeping the public as well as the press out of the vicinity. Reporters and journalists pushed and pushed through, desperate to try and get coverage only to be shoved back by the men in blue who sternly warned against future actions.
Dexter once again pulled out his radio. "Dexter to HQ. Dexter to HQ over"
"Go ahead Dex this is HQ"
"We've got a massacre down here. We need to implement containment procedures immediately. Seal off all subway access points. Every transit line in every borough from here to Brooklyn, Queens and wherever else. I don't care what anyone else says. The MTA subway line is officially closed until further notice"
"Roger. HQ out"
Dexter holstered his radio, licked his lips and sighed. The Captain walked back over. "Let's go, I'll take you inside"
The group then entered the station. It was worse then Dexter imagined. Blood stains were everywhere. The wall, the ceiling, floor and even on the benches. As they walked down the steps unto the platform they saw a grisly scene. Forensic specialists were busy collecting evidence. Taking blood samples and whatever physical evidence they could find. There were hundreds of dead bodies, all having been killed in a vicious manner.
"Jesus Christ" Dexter said under his breath. He paused, made the sign of the Cross with his finger and breathed heavily before continuing. He walked on the platform, motioned over by an EMT sitting next to a man draped by a towel. He had a large welt on his head, a cut lip and some bruising but was not seriously hurt.
"Got a witness. Says he saw exactly what this thing was" the EMT responded.
Mitch looked up at Dexter, whom stared back. "My name is Dexter and I am with the FBI. If you are up to it can I ask you some questions?" he said.
Mitch nodded.
"Tell me everything that happened" Dexter said.
"After the train pulled into the station it broke down. The conducter then went unto the tracks to see what the issue was when...something attacked him" Mitch began.
"Something...like what? An animal?"
"No. This was more like a monster. It killed the conducter and then started eating him. Then it broke into the train and began killing and eating more passengers. The rest well...I'm sure you realize by now what happened" Mitch said grimly. Dexter sighed and folded his arms. "Can you describe what it looks like?"
"It was big. God it was massive. It walked on all fours and had dark red fur with black stripes, like a tiger. It had four toes on the front paws and five on the back. It had large red eyes and a long tail. A flat face and a flat nose. It had an awful smell too. I've never smelled anything like it. Fetid, rank, goatish, rotten. It smelled like...like death. But that wasn't the worst part" Mitch said. Dexter looked at him in confusion.
"It kept, it kept eating people. After it killed it would eat their brains. It was awful, so much blood. It didn't seem satisfied. No matter how many it killed and ate. And then...there was that last bit" Mitch said. He hesitated then continued speaking.
"Its eyes. They looked, sad. There was so much sadness in those eyes. It was like looking into the eyes of a small child. I know it sounds weird since I'm describing some kind of monster but that is the God's honest truth" he explained.
After talking for a few more minutes Mitch was escorted out by the EMTs. Just then, Sion and Seth walked up to him. "Rosette says we got the clear to go and hunt this thing down" Seth said. Just then a SWAT officer walked up to them. "It's for you Dexter" he said handing him his radio as Dexter placed it to his ear.
"Dexter I wanna know who the fuck gave you clearance to shut down the ENTIRE fucking MTA subway line?"
Dexter cringed. That voice, the distinct Long Island accent belonged to none other then Chief Quinton. Section Chief over the Nightstalkers and the biggest asshole alive. He was a dick, a choice USDA grade A dick. And everyone knew it.
"Chief" he began calmly. "You of all people should know that in emergencies I am given full power to proceed with containment policies in any manner necessary. The Board of Directors agreed to this" he said as his eyebrows twitched. Sion stared blankly while Seth supressed a smirk.
"Yeah yeah. Look the press is on our asses about this whole thing. What are you planning?" Chief Quinton asked.
"We are going into the underground area to pursue the beast. Sion and Seth are here and we will split into two teams" Dexter explained.
"Right. Look just don't go and get yourself killed alright? Find this thing, kill it and don't report back unless you do so" the Chief said abrasively before signing off.
"Fucking dick" Dexter said angrily as Seth chuckled. Fifteen minutes later Dexter stood in front of fifteen SWAT officers. They were armed with M16 assault rifles, flak helmets and bullet proof vests. Dexter strapped his rifle across his shoulder, faced the group and spoke.
"Ok men listen up. There is a powerful and murderous creature loose in the subway. According to the eye witness, it's a real nasty son of a bitch. So here's the plan. Two teams, Alpha and Gamma will head into the tunnel. Alpha will be led by Sion, Gamma by myself and Seth. Pursue the beast at any cost and do not engage unless you positively ID it. Now stick to basics. Go slow, go stealthy, nice and quiet. Stick together and for the love of God do not cut off from your group. Underground Manhattan is a lot bigger then you realize. In fact, the experts say it is the largest uninhabited region on Earth that has not been sufficiently mapped. Get lost and they won't even find your dog tags. Any questions?"
No one answered. Dexter reached for his flashlight, checked it and then placed it back into its holster. "Let's roll" he said waving his finger as the group headed out.
In England...
The vampire continued charging his lightning bolt above his head. Just when it reached its peak and he prepared to fire bullets pierced his chest and stomach causing him to fall back and crash to the wall from the recoil. Alucard slowly rose, his wounds reforming as he cracked a wide and sadistic grin. "Come on" he hissed lowly before firing.
The man again dodged the bullets, moving far too fast. Alucard emptied the whole clip but hit nothing but air. He stopped firing as the man then charged forward. Raising his fist he let it sail through the air as it collided with Alucard's chest, breaking through and causing blood to splatter out. Alucard despite the injury simply grinned again. Taking the Casull he fired four shots through the man's chest. Both men slid back from their assaults, concentrating on healing.
"You're pretty fast" Alucard commented as he reloaded both the Casull and Jackal and took aim. The man fixed his large coat and then scoffed. "It would seem I am delayed longer then I expected. I must end our little duel though I have served my purpose. They were right about your strength" he said. Alucard, not lowering his weapons smirked. "Care to tell me your name?"
The man paused for a long time. He slowly reached for his glasses and removed them. Seras gasped at his appearance while Alucard simply chuckled.
The man had striking eyes. Dark orange with red irises. He glared hard before speaking. "I am known as Rein. I am a member of LOD" he answered. "LOD...and what type of group is it?" Alucard asked.
"We have fought since the time of the church against the greatest lie to mankind. Our leader is moving forward with our plan to save mankind. We will create a new world order and establish true peace" Rein said. Seras raised her eyebrow, "What lie? What is this plan?" she asked but he did not respond. Alucard then pressed a different question. "Why are you giving vampires demon blood?"
"To increase their power. We are moving forward with the second stage of our plan. We will begin to raise chaos in New York. Next is Russia" he explained. Rein remained silent for some time. "Join us, vampire Alucard. We could benefit from your power. Why, we can even offer you greater power. You've witnessed what devil's blood will do to a normal vampire. Imagine what your power would be like if you consumed it" he tempted.
Alucard immediately began raucously laughing. He lowered his weapons, holding his sides as he began wildly cackling. "An offer truly fit of a vampire!" he roared. He placed his guns away and stared at Rein. "I do not need demon blood, nor would I want any" Alucard said simply.
Rein frowned, placing his glasses back on. "Return to your master Hellsing and inform her that in three days time. Great tragedy shall strike your allies in Russia" he responded cryptically. Rein nodded once before disappearing in red light leaving Alucard and Seras to ponder his message.
After their fight Alucard and Seras reported back to Integra on their encounter. "Hhmm, LOD. Did he say what their purpose was?" she asked sitting at her desk. "To bring an end to the greatest lie to mankind. Free will or something" Seras replied. Integra said nothing as Seras and Alucard continued to explain their report. Finally she spoke.
"I was afraid they would plot against Russia. We must let Vladimir and his people know. I will contact him again. In the mean time keep your eyes open you two. Whoever this..LOD is they are obviously the ones responsible for all the chaos here as well" Integra said.
Sometime later in the evening, Walter entered her office. "Sir Integra?" he said. She looked at him. "I ran a search through our database on the name 'LOD' and I have come up with some rather eh...interesting results" he explained.
"What kind of results?" Integra asked. Walter sighed before speaking. "It turns out we are not the only ones who have encountered them. In New York City there have been a number of attacks on the public by suspected members of LOD. They even went as far as to kidnap the Mayor" he said watching Integra's expression change.
"My goodness. Wait so how are they dealing with it then?" she asked. "The Nightstalkers" Walter answered. Integra stared blankly. "They are a highly classified and secretive branch of the FBI. They track, monitor, and eliminate all supernatural threats to the United States. Their forces have been tracking the situation for some time now" he explained.
"I see. Interesting. Tell me everything Walter" Integra said.
In Russia...
Vladimir sat on the floor, drenched in sweat as he wiped his brow and sighed. He was sitting on the blue matted area of the exercise room. He had been feeling stressed out from the added mess of the assassin's fight with Anderson. So he took to doing what he always did when stressed.
He had been working out for half an hour with his usual regiment of push ups and tricep dips. After finishing that he stretched his whole body, working from the neck down until he managed a full split. Vladimir then moved on to the next phase of his workout. Walking to the other side of the room he approached a makiwara wooden board.
Vladimir then took a fighting stance before repeatedly striking the makiwara. He started with basic knife hand strikes, doing 50 on each hand. He then switched to punching, likewise doing 50 on each hand. He performed 5 sets of each strike. After a while he sat back down on the floor, sweating and panting as he caught his breath.
"It's been a while since I've seen you do that. You must really be stressed out"
Vladimir turned around to see Mariska, leaning against the wall with her legs crossed and arms folded. Smiling she chuckled as he struggled to his feet and sighed. "That mess with Anderson is driving me crazy. So I figured I'd blow some of this energy off" he said walking to her.
"I still remember when you started training, how old were you again?" she asked.
Vladimir thought for a moment. "I was 8 when I started. I remember because we were going to school together. I was always getting in fights protecting you from those bullies" he said smirking.
Mariska shuddered. "I remember all too well. The day you left for Japan. You were so excited. Tell me, how long has it been since you've seen him? Master Sato that is?" she asked.
Vladimir reached for a towel on the floor, wiping his face off. "When my father died. He came for the service. After that I lost contact with him. I do miss him, a lot now. When I was training it was like having a second father" he explained turning to look back at her. She smiled, causing him to raise his eyebrow. "Well you can tell him how much you've missed him, in person" she said as his eyes widened. "I spoke with him the other day. He's on his way and should be here within a few days" Mariska said.
Vladimir laughed, "Wow you really called sensei? Oh man I can't wait to see him it's been so long. Thanks hun you're the best" he said excitedly as he pulled her into a big hug and kiss causing her to laugh. "You're welcome. By the way, they're asking for you upstairs in the office. So go clean up and then come upstairs when you're ready" she said pointing to his sweat stained gym clothes.
A sly and wicked grin crept unto Vladimir's face. "Yeah I could use a shower. But...only if you'll come with me" he said amorously. Mariska stared, for a long time before shaking her head and chuckling. "You're real bad" she said winking.
An hour later Vladimir sat in his office. It had been two days since the incident with Anderson and he was still facing heat because of it. The assassin had remained undetected. No recent kills had been made leading many to speculate he fled the city since his encounter with the priest. A notion Vladimir himself strongly objected to.
"Look there's not much else to say. No I do not believe he has left the country...yes I am aware the Prime Minister wants action. But I...uh huh. Uh huh. Well of course I realize the risk if he kills again. No I do not know why he is laying low. No I do not know what the Vatican is plotting. This is ridiculous, I don't have that kind of information! No I do NOT know how he was choosing his targets. Ok that's it. This phone conversation is over. I said this conversation is over. Yes I am aware the President wants my forces to...no my wolves have not found the group controlling the vampires. They ones they killed were after Ms. Petrova for Christ's sake!" Vladimir shouted into the phone. The politicians were riding him to abandon the pursuit of the assassin in favor of dealing with the vampires. He continued speaking into the phone. While he did that a very special guest had finally arrived.
"Well now, this is going to be interesting" Michael said watching as Dante entered the building, escorted by two servants. Carrying his guitar case he set it down, eyed Michael curiously and then chuckled. "I remember you from a few years ago. What was the name again?"
"Michael"
"Right. And what? You're this Vlad dude's top dog or something?" Dante cracked. Michael didn't seem to take offense to it, but merely smirked. "Something like that" he said. Dante then eyed him, "I can tell you aren't a demon. Are you a vampire?"
Michael shuddered. "Oh God no" he said. Dante blinked. "I'm a Werewolf" he answered. "Werewolf? No shit really?" Dante asked genuinely surprised for once.
"I take it you've never encountered anything other then a devil, Son of Sparda" Michael said folding his arms and chuckling. Dante was about to respond when Vladimir approached, descending the steps. "Thank you for coming Dante. I'm familiar with your talents. Quite legendary if I may say so" he said walking to the two. He eyed Michael and then grinned, "Treating our guest right?" he said as Michael nodded and smirked.
"Alright so I'm here. So why all this drama to bring me here?" Dante asked. Vladimir grew silent. "Come to my office" he said turning to walk back up the stairs.
Back in his office, Vladimir informed Dante of the very messy and lengthy ordeal. He told him about the vampire attacks, their consumption of demon blood, the assassin and his killings, his fight with Anderson and now the possible threat against the Order by Oboro.
"So that's it. Basically, the shit has hit the fan and we can use any and all help we can get. Right now, we're trying to figure out who is organizing these vampires and feeding them demon blood" Vladimir said. Dante remained quiet before talking.
"Say these vampires killed. They wouldn't happen to have a weird mark on them or anything would they?" he asked. Vladimir looked at him in confusion. "What kind of mark?" he asked. Dante then mentioned the strange branded insignia on the demons he and Trish had been fighting. He also mentioned his battle with the two members of LOD. "It would seem" Vladimir began again. "That whoever this group is they seem to be using both vampires and demons. They give the vampires demon blood, powering them up and then move them about targeting different locations. But for what?" Vladimir said. Dante remained silent, shrugging. "Beats me dude. But long as I get to kill some vamps or something, I'm all for saving the day or whatever" he said causing Vladimir to laugh.
Vladimir's phone again rang and he picked up. It was Integra on the line. "Vladimir new information has surfaced. I was afraid of this but my suspscions were correct. Someone is indeed planning to target your forces" she said. Integra quickly surmised Alucard's report of their encounter with Rein and his warning of violence against Russia. "Well if these bastards wanna try something we'll be ready. Thank you for looking out for me" he stated.
"By the way, since we're dealing with demons now have you considered conta-"
"Dante is standing right in front of me" Vladimir finished for her. Integra remained quiet for some time before sighing. She was about to speak when a different voice interrupted, connecting from a different line.
"Would you care to deliver a message for me, Vladimir?"
Vladimir felt his stomach sink. "The hell? Alucard?"
"NOT AGAIN! ALUCARD GET OFF THE GODDAMN PHONE LINE!" Integra roared angrily as she again tried disconnecting her servant. "Tell Dante there's a bullet with his name on it, if he ever wishes to finish our duel from before. I hope he's up to the challenge" the vampire responded chuckling.
"ALUCARD I SWEAR TO GOD IF YOU PULL THIS SHIT ONE MORE TIME I'LL CUT YOUR HEAD OFF AND BURN YOUR CORPSE MYSELF!" Integra spat angrily, seething mad by Alucard's antics.
"Uh..it's just me now. He hung up" Vladimir responded flatly. Integra's cheeks burned cherry red, she then quickly cleared her throat and regained her composure. "Vladimir we have learned the identity of the group. We uncovered a name. LOD. We're busy checking all available intel" she explained. Integra and Vladimir continued to discuss the events. After their conversation Vladimir turned to Dante. "We will begin the search now. It seems this LOD group are the ones using vampires for their goal" he said.
"Alright, so what now?" Dante asked. "We root out these vampires. We know they're targeting certain politicians so they'll need our protection. How do you feel about fighting with a pack of Werewolves?" Vladimir asked watching Dante's expression change. The devil hunter laughed and said "Sounds like a party to me. Always say a good fight keeps things interesting now and then. Don't you think?" he said. Vladimir smirked, starting to like Dante more and more.
Back in New York...
Dexter walked at the head of the group. The team moved through the darkened and long forgotten tunnels of the subway line, searching for the Oboro. The time now approaching close to half an hour since they began. Seth had split off from the group five minutes before. Chasing a strange scent further into the tunnels. It was now very dark, the only light coming from the groups flashlights and search lights. Occassionally they would run into underground mole people. Homeless denizens of underground Manhattan. Such people living in large communities. One such group had gathered around a large roaring fire, cooking and grilling rats over the large open flame. The team moved on, deeper and deeper into the area.
Dexter stopped, signaling to his group. "What is it Dex?" one of the officers, Bailey asked behind him.
"Thought I saw movement up ahead. Wait, I hear something. Take positions" he said as the group spread in a formation, taking cover behind some debris and near the tunnel walls. Moments passed as the tunnel grew eerily quiet. There was a very faint dragging noise, followed by shuffled and winded breathing. Like a horse with asthma inhaling through a tube. Dexter flipped the safety off his rifle, preparing. Suddenly, from behind the group one of the officers went "Oh shhiiiiiit!" and began wildly firing off into the darkness behind them. A few more joined in, firing their assault rifles until Dexter shouted at them.
"Hold your fire! Hold your fire! I said hold your fuckin' fire!" he yelled as they finally stopped. He ran over. "What the fuck is wrong with you idiots?" he roared angrily.
"Dex I saw it, I swear to Christ I saw it!" one wailed.
"Saw what?" Dexter asked.
"It was a rat. Fucking HUGE ass rat" he answered weakly. Dexter, stared dumbfounded. "You just gave away our position over a fucking rat? You gotta be kidding me" he glared and crossed his arms. "Not just any rat, this sonnuva bitch was giant. As big as a damn Bulldog" the other officer said flashing his light at the spot they fired.
"Well" Dexter sighed. "You hit him?" he asked. "I got him" the officer answered, his partner didn't look so convinced. "Bullshit. You couldn't hit shit with a shoe" he quipped as Dexter then rolled his eyes. A breeze down the tunnel brought a foul and ripe goatish smell. It made everyone gag. Suddenly they heard a long deep wail, as the group again raised their rifles in the direction of the sound. Dexter again took lead, "Move!" he shouted as the group dashed off.
They again heard the wail, this time followed by deep rumbling and a powerful roar. The tunnel formed a large bend as they made the turn and stopped. A light flickered near the wall. The smell was much more pungent now. Dexter shone his light, scanning. The group had spread out a little in their search. One officer walked past a large heap of debris and rubble. From atop the pile a massive dark shape began to crawl, stealthily following him before rearing to full height towering at 9 feet tall. Another officer saw the movement, raised his rifle and shouted "CONTACT!" before firing.
There was the flash from the gunfire as the shape was illuminated. The Oboro roared from the hail storm of bullets and sprinted away from the team who joined in the fire. Dexter grabbed his radio as they gave chase. The thunderous movements of the creature ahead echoed through the tunnel.
"Gamma team reporting in!" He said.
"Alpha team in. What's your situation?"
"We're chasing something"
"What do you mean something?"
"Something big. Non-human. Pursuing target now. All units pursue the target!" Dexter shouted returning fire. The Oboro roared, an awful bellowing sound that hurt their ears. They proceeded to chase the beast through the tunnels. Suddenly there was a massive and loud crash ahead.
Oboro turned a corner as the team fired again, bullets piercing its hind legs and tail. The monster then howled in pain. The pursuit of the Oboro had now taken Dexter's team into the deep underground areas of the subway lines. Long forgotten by those who dwelled on the surface above. These levels went on for miles and miles. Completely unmapped areas of tunnels and trails.
The Oboro had eluded the team, who were now trying to catch their breath. They were now on an old make shift platform abandoned since the early days of the subway system. Grabbing his radio Dexter spoke earnestly. "Gamma team in. Alpha team do you copy over?"
"Go ahead Gamma"
"We lost the creature. Trying to pick up the trail but we've had no luck. We're now in a deeper part of the underground area. I don't even know what station we're near" Dexter said.
"Roger. We actually have a good signal from your location. Judging from that we estimate your location to be near midtown Manhattan. We can rendevous in 20 minutes" the response went as Dexter switched his radio off. Looking down the tunnel he sighed. "Alright, we still haven't heard from Seth. That thing bounded off ahead so let's see if we can pick its trail up" he said as they began to move out.
"We move slow and quiet. Bailey, you and Johnson and Ramirez cover the back. I'll lead at the front. And this time, fire at anything that moves on four legs" he said as Bailey nodded and cocked his rifle. Dexter turned back down the long dark tunnel. "I hope Seth is all right" he said to himself.
Back in England...
Integra drummed her fingers on her desk. She clicked on her mouse, scrolling through documents on her computer. She was looking through archival information detailing mysterious kidnappings, murders and deaths as well as spikes in supernatural activity dating back at least 100 years. All of it involving vampires. She felt there was some connection.
Sighing Integra sat back in her chair, rubbing her temples. She checked her watch. 11:35 pm. "Christ all this mess. There's some connection. But what? I can't figure it out. LOD is using vampires for their goals. But to what? Why give them demon blood? Why move them about here in London, Russia and now apparently New York?" she asked herself. She then picked up the phone and quickly dialed. "Yes this is Sir Integra. Get me in contact with our people in British Intelligence. Yes this is an emergency. What? Oh for God's sake just do it" she snapped, not in the mood to play politics. Integra then spent the next hour on the phone with British Intelligence officials, digging up any information on the Nightstalkers. It took some time but Integra finally found what she was looking for.
"I see, so their organization goes back many years. Just like our own. Very interesting" she said reading the file she had been sent regarding the history of the Nightstalkers and their role in protecting United States soil from the forces of darkness. Integra again reached for the phone, dialed a number and waited patiently for a response. "Hello, is this the Bureau Director of the FBI, a Mr. Jack Mcgrath?" Integra asked.
Back in Russia...
Captain Reznov entered Vladimir's office, looking concerned. "What? Did that bitch Klara cause some trouble again?" he asked. Captain Reznov shook his head. "I need you to just listen to everything I am going to report to you. No interruptions. Just listen" he said. Vladimir nodded and folded his arms. Captain Reznov sighed and began his lengthy report.
"I called some old friends in Intelligence, trying to get a lead on what's been going on. The first thing that came up was these events aren't just limited to Russia. In New York, there have been a number of mysterious abductions and kidnappings, murders and other acts plaguing the city. There's a group that's been handling it. They call themselves the Nightstalkers, a secret branch of the FBI. Recently, they uncovered information pointing to the identity of the ones controlling the vampires. A group calling itself LOD" he said. There was no response so he continued.
"LOD apparently have been using vampires for some time now. Their true goal however, is still unknown. Now this is where it gets really interesting. I also ran the blood samples we got from the assassin. I checked every criminal archive and record in the world. And I got zilch. So whoever this guy is, he's not in the system. But I went a step further and checked through birth records of every major hospital in the world. The results: Nothing. Not a single damn thing. So not only is this guy off the grid but apparently, he doesn't officially exist" Captain Reznov said. He sighed again and motioned for Vladimir to speak finally.
"Ok. I spoke with Integra a while ago. She says that LOD is planning to target our forces so we should prepare for that. Now, how is it possible that the assassin does not exist at all? I mean come on there has to be SOME proof of his existence somewhere. And you mean to tell me you found no matching blood types any where else?" Vladimir asked as Captain Reznov nodded.
"Alright" Vladimir began rubbing his temples. "I sense there is something else you're not waiting to tell" he said. "Well, I was able to find a match on something. Remember the tatoo on his chest? The one reportedly inscribed in Aramaic? Well we managed to decipher it. It's an old form of the language. Not spoken since the time of Christ" he said hesitating.
"Well, what does it mean?" Vladimir asked.
"It means. 'Sin Eater'' Captain Reznov said.
Back in New York...
Dexter's team walked down the long dark tunnel. He called to the back. "Bailey!"
"Yo"
"Anything funny going on?"
"You'll be first to know when it does" Bailey responded. The team continued walking. A breeze picked up. With it came an unmistakable smell.
"Shit! Bailey you sme-" Dexter began but was silenced by a loud grunt from behind the group. There was gunfire as Bailey began firing off rounds. "Jesus!" the man wailed. There was an ear piercing awful roar and Bailey's horrible cries of pain and anguish followed by a sickening crunch as the man was dragged off into the darkness behind them. The team immediately took positions, aimed into the darkness and awaited Dexter's order.
"Wait for the son of a bitch to show itself" he growled. There was another crunching noise followed by slurping. Then deep heavy footsteps. There was a strange breathing sound; heavy, labored and winded. The smell grew stronger. In the darkness they saw two large red eyes appear, staring coldly. The monster was about 25 feet away from the team. A frightening sensation as the eyes watched the teams movements, drawing closer and closer.
Finally the creature revealed itself fully. Massive and powerfully built. Deep rounded muscles rippling through its body. The Oboro stared at the team, for what seemed like an eternity. Dexter tightened his grip on his rifle. And then, ever so slowly and deliberately. The beast broke into a brief trot which quickened into a fast sprint. Its thunderous footsteps echoing in the tunnel as it charged.
"FIRE" Dexter shouted as the team opened fire. Their bullets racing for the target who roared in great fury. With a swipe of one arm it eviscerated one of the team. His intestines coiling out in a heap of blood. It used its tail to knock others aside, ending their hail of bullets as it then killed two more of the team. Dexter stopped, reloading his weapon just as the beast charged forward again. As the Oboro prepared to attack, suddenly from out the darkness a massive shape, rivaling the size of the creature leaped out and knocked it aside.
The shape then tackled the Oboro, both forces rolling and snapping at each other before it was pushed back into the darkness. Dexter and his team paused, the Oboro was know entirely focused on this new opponent who slowly walked out from the shadows.
"Sorry I was gone for so long guys. Was following some weird activity" a voice rang out from the darkness. Slowly stepping out the team shone their lights, watching in surprise at the new visitor. Dexter simply chuckled and said "Well about time. And I say that form suits you just fine"
Approaching the Oboro, who was crouched low and growling lowly was the massive form of a lion. Much bigger then a typical speciman. It was as big as a bull, but taller, more muscular. It's golden eyes displayed deep intelligence. Its muscles rippiling underneath the tawny fur. The lion growled, a deep echo in the tunnels as it opened its massive jaws, baring sharp fangs as hot steam escape from its chops. Aside from its size, standing nearly 7 feet tall. The most unusual feature was the animal's mane. Not the normal color of brown, black or shades of light brown. This lion had a blood red mane.
The Oboro roared and charged, the lion did so as well. Both beasts collided, rolling on the floor, biting and snapping at each other. The Oboro swiped with its massive claws. The lion despite its size was surprisingly agile and nimble. It evaded the attack and swiped back, nicking the monster across its face. It then used its powerful shoulders to bump Oboro back as the beast turned and used its tail to knock it aside. Rolling to its feet the lion roared and charged but was tackled by the Oboro who pinned it. The lion bit down hard onto its leg as it howled in pain. Oboro then bit the lion on the back and shook violently. Both beasts not letting go as they continued clawing and biting. All Dexter and his team could do was watch.
The lion was knocked hard against the wall. As Oboro charged once more, suddenly a massive wave of red energy collided with the monster knocking it back. The lion stood back to its feet, snorted twice. "Nice timing, Sion" it said ruffling its mane.
Sion walked out the darkness, holding Oblivion tightly, followed by the remainder of his team whom opened fire on Oboro causing the monster to scream and wail. He raised the sword as Oboro roared, causing the tunnel walls to shake. "Dexter listen up. Follow Seth further into the tunnels. He'll take you to a section where members of LOD are gathering. They're planning for some ritual and are near completion. I'll deal with big boy here" he said gesturing to the creature. Covered in bullet holes, the monster again howled before turning in the opposite direction and running down the tunnel. Sion placed his sword behind and sprinted after. "GO!" he said to the group behind him.
Dexter watched his retreating form. "Listen up! New plan is in effect. Seth, you take the lead at the front. If LOD is down here this may be our chance to stop them. Let's head out" he said. Seth roared and sprinted down the tunnel as the team moved on. Unbeknownst to them, LOD was gathering for a twisted ritual. The team led by Seth traveled down the twists and turns of the old tunnels. Eventually, they came to an entrance. The smell of smoke and ash filled their nostrils. Seth turned back to face them. "No noises. They don't know we're down here. Wait for Dexter's signal before we strike. Stay silent and stay low" he said. With a low snarl Seth entered the opening. His tail twitching as the men followed. The opening eventually led to a rocky outcrop that was situated above a pit below. Peering over the edge, Dexter watched, in horror at the scene below. "What, in the holy name of God, is happening?" he muttered.
In a debilitated section of the underground system, several tall figures gathered before a massive roaring fire. Behind them, dozens upon dozens of hooded men and women were bowing before them. Heads bobbing, hands in front. They chanted in a foreign language, their chanting growing louder and louder. One figure turned and faced the crowd. "Now, we shall commence the ascension" he said as the crowd began cheering and shouting. They pulled their hoods back, revealing their identities.
Vampires. The vampires began hissing and shouting as one figure approached from the back. Walking to the fire, he raised his hands and shouted. The flames soon dissipated into a tiny spark. The fire again grew in size, only this time something began forming above it. A black outline phased above the flames, quickly taking the form of a man. The man's outline would occasionally flicker and distort, as if receiving some kind of interference. The man had a mask covering his face and wore a black hooded cloak. The black outline was the leader of LOD. The Leader scanned the room then locked unto the rows of vampires who bowed before him and the figures before the flames.
"Report" he said.
"We have gathered more vampires. The time is near to strike Russia. We already have a strike force ready to attack the Order of the Cross" he explained. The Leader nodded. "Good. Begin the ascension" he commanded. The vampires on cue raised stone goblets before them. The figures surrounding the flames did so as well. "Tonight we drink to the future. A New World Order is finally at hand. Drink, to strengthen yourselves for the realization of our dream. Drink, to our Leader. Who has planned for our glory for nearly 2,000 years. Hail, Lord Klaus!" he said. The vampires began shouting and cheering. They lifted the goblets to their faces, consuming the blood. Dropping the goblets they began a frightening transformation. Large dark veins began forming around their eyes and moving down their necks. They grew a little in muscle mass and size. Their eyes turned blood red with green irises. With a sharp howl, the vampires jumped from their seats. Excited and becoming frantic by the power flowing through them.
From his position watching the chaos unfold. Klaus, leader of Lod remained silent. However, under the cover of the mask he wore a small but deliberate smile crept on his face. Wicked and triumphant, he lightly chuckled to himself. "And now, we strike at Russia" he said.
End Chapter
Sorry for such a long delay. Just as a heads up, it's going to start taking me a bit longer to post up chapters then I have before. Some good news, I start my freshman year of college soon! Because of that my time will be devoted mostly to preparing and settling into that. I will continue this story, no doubt. Please be patient and I will update as frequently as I can.
Next chapter, the Nightstalkers strike back! Dexter and his team fight the members of LOD and manage to capture one. She warns of coming atrocities. Can they stop the mysterious group? Who is their leader, Klaus? And what are his goals?
In Russia, Vladimir sends Dante and the wolf pack on a hunt. They encounter strengthened vampires and are warned that betrayal lurks in their order. Someone near and dear is at risk.
Integra speaks with the director of the FBI about their search for LOD. He informs her of the events in New York, to which she explains the happenings in New York and Russia. The two realize they are all connected and begin drawing plans to resolve the events.
Lastly, Nero encounters vampiric activity on Fortuna. The young knight is forced into combat with the undead.
Again, the big free for all is near. Thanks for reading and please stay tuned!