Disclaimer: Here we go folks, next chapter
The UN General Assembly commences in full effect. The Hellsing Organization, the Order of the Cross, the Nightstalkers, the Iscariot Organization, Order of the Sword as well as the President's Administration meet in secret to discuss the rising threat of LOD as well as the continuing conflict with Klaus. During the discussion, several key pieces of information are brought to light.
First; Integra announces she's put together the mystery of Klaus' true identity. After relaying her findings, she then announces another disturbing piece of information, much to the shock of those around her.
Next, Enrico Maxwell confesses to the Catholic Church's history and support of LOD during the dawn of the early church. Disgust, mistrust and outrage are met at this revelation, already adding to the Vatican's already tainted image. Lucian Salvatore in particular, revealing that the Vatican at one point frequently employed the Salvatore Brothers.
Our heroes continue in their constant struggle to put an end to Klaus' schemes. Danger lurks in the shadows; the enemy is coming and is not holding anything back.
Get ready, only a few more chapters before the next massive set of battles.
Chapter Thirty Two- The Meeting: Part I
The day had finally come. The General Assembly Meeting at the United Nations was finally taking place. Traffic in the city was heavy, with diplomats and world leaders moving into the city. The city's police and armed forces were on high alert; SWAT units were stationed at numerous subway stations. Squads of canine and bomb units were dispatched to Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal.
The UN Headquarters, located just off of east 42nd, overlooked the East River as it bordered First Avenue. As expected, security at the General Assembly Hall as well as the Secretariat building was doubled for the coming conference. Visitors, both conference guests and speakers went through rigorous security screening before being allowed access inside the Assembly Hall. Scores of speakers and representatives poured into the General Assembly Hall as the days briefing and discussions began. Outside the Assembly Hall a large presidential stretch limo slowly pulled up to the curbside, escorted by a squadron of Secret Service vehicles. Pulling to a stop, the door of the passenger side slowly opened and out stepped a Secret Service agent. Quickly adjusting his tie he spoke into the radio in his cuff links.
"Just touched down, secure the perimeter. Everything around the Assembly Hall" he said running a hand through his hair as he then opened the door. Stepping aside a middle aged woman stepped out of the car and unto the sidewalk. She appeared to be in her late 30's, possibly 37 or 38. She stood about 5'7 with a slim waist and wide ample hips. Her long silky dirty blonde hair was tied in a messy bun and complimented her fair tanned skin and dark brown eyes. Dressed in a black pant suit with a grey shirt she smoothed the creased in her pants and waited as her Secret Service escorts exited the limo. Looking up she saw a man approach, two uniformed SWAT officer flanking him. He was dressed in tactical gear; Wearing black cargo pants tucked into black military boots, he had on a form fitting black thermal long sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up. He wore a black tactical vest over this and hard knuckle black combat gloves.
"Madam President? I'm Agent Smith with the FBI. It's an honor ma'am" Dexter said greeting the President as he offered his hand, which she graciously shook.
"Likewise agent, I trust that everything is in order?" the President said as they began walking towards the entrance. Dexter nodded, "Yes ma'am. We're setting up the conference right now. Most of our guests have already arrived."
"Very good, if you will agent, please direct my people to where the conference will be held" the President instructed as she and Dexter entered the complex followed by her Secret Service escorts.
The conference was taking place in a private room three levels above the General Assembly Hall. After a short ride up on the elevator, Dexter escorted the President down the hall towards the conference room. Reaching the door he turned the handle and stepped inside as the President followed with her escort.
Inside, the conference hall was a large room with a round table in the center. Surrounding the table were three large pillars forming a tri pattern, connecting to an overhanging balcony which hung about six feet over. The balcony formed a circle platform overlooking the table below.
Sitting at the table, was Director McGrath who quickly rose to greet the President. "Madam President thanks you so much for arranging this. Please take a seat" he offered as she sat down at the head. There were three large folders placed before her, which she quickly began skimming through. "I see then that everyone whom was invited has agreed to come. Well, where are they then?" she asked casually looking up.
As if on cue, the door to the room opened as in walked several more Secret Service agents. Standing aside, they allowed as a large group of people began pouring into the room. Nodding his head Dexter motioned to Director McGrath who nodded in return. The President meanwhile narrowed her eyes, watching as the individuals entering.
First to step in, were Rosette, Sion and Seth. Rosette nodded to Director McGrath, turning her attention to Dexter briefly as she winked and continued inside. Sion and Seth were dressed in their standard outfits; Seth wearing a tight fitting black tank top, loose baggy black pants tucked into black boots and a black denim vest. He wore a tactical belt that was customized, allowing for a gold plated buckle in the center with the picture of a bear engraved. Strapped across his back were his usual double edged sword with a round cross guard and his uniquely designed shield. Sion likewise wore his normal outfit of black pants, a thin black t-shirt, a black cloth tied from his waist and reaching past his knees held securely by a purple rope belt tied in a bow and wore an ankle length short sleeved jacket colored royal purple with a black flame pattern at the bottom. Strapped across his back, and taped heavily with thick bandage was his fearsome sword, Oblivion.
"Madam President, my name is Rosette Cristobel, I am the leader of the Nightstalkers. These are some of our agents, Sion and Seth" Rosette said introducing each man respectively as she shook the President's hand then took her seat. Dexter meanwhile noted Rosette. She was so calm, so confidant, and so pretty. She wore dark gray slacks and a black long sleeved turtle neck sweater with the sleeves rolled up.
Next to enter were the Hellsing forces; Integra followed closely by Alucard, Seras and Walter. Alucard's presence immediately causing several of the President's service members to feel uneasy, watching the brooding vampire count's every movement. What he did next stunned them; he removed his fedora hat, holding it against his chest as he crossed his feet, and bowed respectfully to the President who's jaw dropped. She had heard the stories before, the famed and terrible monster of the Hellsing family. This however totally blew her mind.
"Madam President, it is quite the extraordinary honor to meet you" Alucard said, his velvety voice sending shivers down the President as she quickly cleared her throat and managed a weak smile. Seras scratched her head nervously and laughed weakly while Walter and Integra chuckled as the latter took her respective seat adjacent from Rosette.
Following Hellsing, Iscariot came in. Enrico Maxwell scowling viciously, though his expression softened upon laying eyes on the President whom he greeted with a brief and gruff reply. Father Anderson followed suit, his eyes roaming over to Alucard as the two men grinned and sneered. Integra eyed Alucard cautiously; they had spoken before and he was not to engage Anderson unless specifically ordered to do so.
Or if he pissed off Integra. Maxwell took his seat and folded his arms.
Next came the Order of the Sword. Seishiro entered followed by Nero and most surprisingly, Dante. The white haired half devil smirking as he entered, carrying the guitar case which secretly held his trusted sword Rebellion. Some of the service men snickering upon seeing it. Nero said nothing, just followed suit as Seishiro introduced himself to the President and Director McGrath and took his seat.
Next to enter were the Order of the Cross. The largest group as Vladimir, Mariska, Master Sato and the entire wolf pack stepped inside. The President seemed most curious about this massive group. Vladimir, dressed in a three piece black and gray suit had a confidant and calm presence about him. Then again, he was backed by ten Werewolves, the leader of which is one of the most massively powerful wolves alive. Vladimir smiled warmly to Integra and Rosette whom returned the smile. He acknowledge Nero and Dante and turned his attention to Maxwell, instantly tensing.
"Maxwell. Father" Vladimir stated simply as Maxwell and Anderson eyed him curiously. "Mr. Sokolov" Maxwell stated simply.
Vladimir and Mariska took their seat, across from Maxwell and next to Integra. Master Sato meanwhile stood against one of the pillars with his legs crossed as he closed his eyes.
All of the service men had their eyes on Vladimir's wolf pack. Michael, standing at the front of his pack was stoic and attentive; waiting for any order to be given by Vladimir. The rest of the pack meanwhile was either quite relaxed, or in Sergei, Alex and Hanya's case, excited as they smirked and/or grinned.
Lastly, the final group to enter was perhaps the most volatile. Calmly walking in were the Salvatore Brothers. Immediately, all eyes were drawn to them as the four pure blood siblings stood near the entrance. They all exuded an air of confidence about them, as well as an eagerness to fight. Lucian, standing at the front was in his typical outfit; black pants, brown knee length boots, black shirt under a black plated vest and a long dark blue ankle length coat and a twin tailed scarf. His powerful sword, Wolf's Bane tied to his waist by a red rope belt. Ramone wore a dark midnight blue denim jacket, a black tank top, dark gray cargo pants and black boots. Jason wore loose baggy black cargo pants, black boots, a dark gray tank top and an ankle length white colored coat. His forearms were taped heavily with black bandages. Lastly, Jacob was perhaps most casually dressed. He wore baggy black cargo pants, a black sleeveless muscle shirt, black Converse sneakers, a light denim vest colored light blue and a black snap back baseball cap. Each Salvatore bore their clan symbol on their respective piece of clothing; Lucian on his back, Ramone on the left side of his chest, Jason on the right breast of his coat and Jacob on the left breast of his vest.
"It seems all the key players are here. Good, anything less would be unacceptable. It's been some time, Michael. How goes your devotion to your, master?" Lucian immediately stated, gazing at Michael who returned the look with his own cold and emotionless stare. Behind him, his pack began growling with Raul taking a step forward only to be halted by a brief stare from Michael.
"Indeed it has been some time, Lucian. My devotion to my master has not changed. For someone as yourself, who's only motivation is power I wouldn't expect you to understand" Michael said before smirking. Lucian smirked back, Jason and Jacob growling as they tensed.
"Let's settle down. Mr. Salvatore, you agreed to the conditions of this conference. There shall be no conflict, of any magnitude. Understood?" Director McGrath stated eyeing Lucian cautiously.
Lucian closed his eyes, chuckling as he and his brothers stepped in, walking past Michael's pack as Lucian took his seat, across from Integra and nearest Seishiro.
With everyone finally in attendance Director McGrath stood to his feet, calmly adjusted his tie and cleared his throat as he raised a clipboard with several sheets of paper.
"Ok now if I may have your attention. We will begin the conference now. Please agree to the nature of this discussion: There will be no fighting of any sort. Each guest will be allowed to as they see fit. All escorts for each guest must wait on the above balcony so as not to create any tension. Now there is a staircase on the other side which will lead you to-"
But Director McGrath found that was not necessary. Each escort proceeded to jump/phase/teleport/fly to the above level where they proceeded to spread out. Alucard, Seras and Walter were positioned above Integra's seat, overlooking their mistress. Sion and Seth; above Rosette. Nero and Dante; above Seishiro. Anderson above Maxwell, Ramone, Jason and Jacob above Lucian and the entire wolf pack above Vladimir and Mariska.
From her spot standing beside Alucard, Seras looked up towards the right where she caught Seth's attention. Blushing she said, "Hey Seth"
Seth smiled back, "Hey yourself, Ms. Victoria"
Alucard meanwhile grumbled something incoherent while Walter stifled a chuckle.
Director McGrath then said, "Well if nothing else needs to be said. Madam President?"
The President calmly folded her fingers as each individual sitting at the table turned their attention to her. "I have called together this meeting for one simple reason: LOD. The individual known as Klaus has committed great and terrible crimes against the United States of America as well as other parts of the world. Murder, kidnapping, terrorism, theft the list goes on. My administration has been undergoing a full investigation into LOD's activity for some time now. But more importantly, now is not the time for division or strife. We must pool our resources and work together in order to bring this man to justice" she said gazing around. Seeing no one had an objection she continued.
"The United States, Great Britain, Russia, Rome, Fortuna. These are all locations that have been affected by LOD's activity. We must a stop to it. I trust you will all cooperate" the President said looking at each member.
"Easy for you to say" Lucian said challenging her. "But with that said, I would like to take first point"
"Hmph. For a monster, a Werewolf nonetheless to speak before humans is remarkable" Maxwell stated with bitterness creeping in. Lucian eyed him calmly, his amber eyes narrowing. "I was captured by Klaus and his minions. I was experimented on and forced to become Klaus' favorite toy. I know all too well the reality of LOD and what lengths they will go to pursue their goals. That is why I believe they are dangerous. That is why by the Salvatore name I, Lucian, will be the one to destroy Klaus."
Rosette then interjected, "Lucian that's exactly the problem. We've all been trying to handle the situation by ourselves. Klaus is proving time and time again he is far craftier than we could have ever anticipated. Think of every action LOD has taken against us thus far: The kidnapping and attempted murder of the Mayor, the releasing of the Oboro, the attacks in Inwood Hill, the mysterious killings in England, the attacks in St. Petersburgh and Prague and most recently the devastation in Egypt. If Klaus could force the famed Lucian Salvatore to his will what makes you think it can't happen a second time?" Rosette stated.
Lucian simply eyed her curiously, but did not press the matter. Maxwell at that point spoke.
"Listen very closely. Iscariot is only interested in protecting its image"
"HA! That's a joke! WHAT image? Iscariot is known for using shady underhanded ploys. Don't try to bullshit us Maxwell, not this time" Vladimir stated challenging Maxwell's statement. Gritting his teeth Maxwell continued.
"LOD has committed sins against our organization as well. I brought it up once to Integra; this is a fight we've been dealing with since the time of the early church. Long before we fought against the vampire menace." Maxwell said.
At that point Seishiro slowly turned, eyes widening. "What are you saying? Did Iscariot know about LOD all this time?"
"Please enlighten us, Enrico" Integra said narrowing her eyes as she adjusted her glasses.
Caught in the spotlight, Maxwell looked around uneasily at the curious and/or angry glances.
"I'll explain it this way since there is no point in keeping secrets. Quite simply: LOD began with the early church" Maxwell blurted out quickly. Silence greeted his ears as he looked around. Integra and Vladimir intensified their looks while Seishiro, Rosette, the President and even Lucian widened their eyes in severe shock. Crossing his legs Maxwell continued.
"LOD began as an offshoot of the early Gnostic cults. But time passed and they grew in power, and ambition. Klaus began to implement a plan of not just controlling humans, but subjugating them, breaking them to his every machination. The church knew of this and in agreement, all records and mentioning of their involvement were to be stripped from the archives. No one was to mention it, and the name of LOD would fade into obscurity. Or, so we would have liked to believe" Maxwell said lowly.
"That's not the whole story Maxwell and you damn well know it" Integra said sharply as she glared. Lucian calmly turned in her direction, "And what is it he's leaving out?"
"It's true that LOD began with the Gnostic cults but their goal was specifically opposition to the church. This went until the Great Fire of AD 64. After the fire, the Roman officials blamed the early Christians for the fire leading to heavy and widespread persecution, torture and killing of dozens of Christians. It is here that LOD, once faded to obscurity mysteriously resurfaces. Their leader a man named Klaus who approached the church with an offer. Klaus said he could defend them from their persecutors on the condition the church finance LOD's activity, and they agreed" Integra explained as Maxwell shook his fist with anger. Lucian narrowed his eyes, a slight growl escaping his throat. Rosette's expression intensified, Vladimir turned to Mariska, who shrugged her shoulders.
"Ms. Hellsing, how did you come about this knowledge?" the President asked. Integra answered, "Through some research, in cooperation with the British Evangelical society. And later through confirmation from Mr. Maxwell" Integra said eyeing the Iscariot leader warily.
"But I am still confused about something. If Klaus opposed the early church, then who is the individual currently leading LOD? Surely the Klaus from all those centuries ago would be dead by now" the President questioned as she rested her hands on the table.
It was at that point Integra paused. She carefully glanced over at Vladimir, whom nodded.
"There is something else. Something Mr. Sokolov and I discovered together in our investigation. Part of it relays to the disaster his forces encountered on their excursion to Egypt. The truth is…" Integra began, until Vladimir interjected.
"The real Klaus is not with LOD"
Immediately, everyone proceeded to gasp, with Lucian taking the most drastic action. Standing to his feet, he growled viciously as his fangs grew.
"WHAT?!" he roared angrily.
Vladimir remained calm, despite the tense mood. "What Sir Integra was going to explain was that she has discovered a terrible truth. The real Klaus is not with LOD. In fact, the real Klaus may not be alive in the traditional sense. When I sent my forces to Egypt to recover the Anima device, we discovered a tomb containing Klaus' body. It was upon further investigation we realized the true purpose for all of LOD's activity. Klaus has been desperately searching for his real body so as to return to his former power and glory. His forces managed to recover his body, but in doing so dealt a crucial blow to us" Vladimir explained.
"His….his real body? God what kind of power does he wield?" Seishiro said shaking his head.
Lucian shook with anger. "Klaus, you rat bastard" he growled viciously.
"It goes further than that Vladimir" Integra said as Vladimir blinked in confusion and adjusted his suit. Integra sighed, "I know who Klaus really is. I've known for some time but did not want to incite panic. The Klaus currently posing as the leader of LOD, is none other than the Roman general Scipio. He is the one who led the Roman forces during the sack of Carthage at the culmination of the Third Punic Wars. When Alucard, Seras and Father Anderson searched through the ruins at Carthage, they discovered the Anima buried there inside a stone coffin. The coffin however was empty, save for a message inscribed in ancient Punic. The message read 'Here lies Scipio'. Now, why would someone stow away the Anima device, inscribe that message yet not bury a body? My guess, is that Klaus has somehow taken over Scipio's body, using it until he can reclaim his former body" Integra explained.
"Alright" the President said sighing and shaking her head. "Let's review what we know: From what the FBI reports Klaus is using these devices called Anima, as part of the ritual needed to return him to his former glory. I have also been informed that we originally assumed they were part of his plan to subjugate all humans to his will. My question thus is this: Has any new information surfaced stating how and when Klaus plans to accomplish this?" she asked glancing around the table.
Vladimir spoke. "In four months' time, at the end of summer, the world will be destroyed by Klaus"
Vladimir's statement was met with utter silence. Maxwell shouted, "That's absurd! How the hell does Klaus plan to do that?"
"No clue. All we know the time, not the specifications. But we do have an advantage: Hellsing secured one Anima as did my own forces. Without them Klaus is still one step behind us"
Everyone seemed satisfied with this answer. The President then turned to Lucian. "You there, Werewolf. You mentioned before how Klaus kept you captive for experimentation. What exactly did he do?" she asked curiously.
Rosette blinked and turned in Lucian's direction, noting the anger in his amber eyes. A moment passed before he spoke.
"Klaus has been experimenting with various type of weaponry, mostly biological in nature. I'm sure the humans can attest to the vampires and Ghouls which had been fed demon blood. But, it goes more than that, in my case at least" Lucian then paused before saying, "I too, was given demon blood. But it was vastly different. Klaus developed a unique serum, a fusion of demon blood and various other compounds which were injected into my system, intravenously over a period of time. The results were, remarkable, to say the least" Lucian said holding out his right hand. He was always aware of the sheer raw power coursing through his veins. Above, his brothers became visibly disturbed. Even with Lucian back and their family whole, the pain of losing him for so long coupled with the humiliation he suffered at becoming Klaus' weapon still weighed heavily on them. Jacob growled, clenching his fist as he rested his arms on the railing of the balcony. Michael noted their pain, sighing and narrowing his eyes before gazing down as Lucian continued speaking.
"My God…I had no idea, Lucian" Rosette said. Lucian stared at her, she seemed genuinely sorry. Running a hand through his long brown hair Lucian smirked. "To receive sympathy, from a human no less, is something I will have to grow accustomed to" he said.
At that point, Seishiro began speaking. "The Order of the Sword has been the most neutral in regards to these incidents. Our only real conflict was the invasion of vampires we fought against. Then there was the time your own forces came to the island" he said curiously glancing at Vladimir, Maxwell and Integra.
Vladimir said, "I sent Michael to deal with Anderson" He looked at Maxwell who glared harshly. "Don't think we've forgotten about the incident with the assassin. You came to my country for help in tracking a criminal with ties to your church and go behind my back to try and silence him. I knew Iscariot was low, but not that low"
Maxwell scoffed and pointed a finger. "You think you are so pure and innocent? What about the fact your own forces have doubled within the last two years? Not to mention the little fact of adding more wolves to your collection. I never figured you were so greedy, more pets for your keep?" he challenged as Vladimir instantly scowled.
Above, the wolf pack glared harshly. "That sack of shit. Why if I had the chance…" Alex began.
"Alex, cool it" Hiro stated with his arms folded.
"Don't point the finger at me Maxwell! Iscariot has been mobilizing as well these past few years. Did you forget we've been monitoring your activity as well?" Vladimir challenged back.
Maxwell smirked, closing his eyes as he shrugged. "I won't deny it. Iscariot has simply been testing out new fighting units. Nothing major."
That seemed to strike a raw nerve, Lucian once again growing furious as his brow furrowed and he began tapping the table with his finger. A second later, his nail turned to a large claw.
Maxwell, ever oblivious, continued rambling.
"Iscariot will make no apologies for its activities. Yes I sent Anderson to dispatch the assassin. Yes I did it knowing the problems it may cause your forces. Iscariot has been fighting against the forces of darkness, long before your ancestors and especially Hellsing. And we have done it all, for the glory of God"
Above on the balcony, each escort could sense trouble brewing.
Sion's eyes narrowed, he slowly reached for Oblivion as Seth did for his own sword.
"Master.." Seras said as her crimson eyes flashed and Alucard began laughing and brandishing the Jackal while Walter slipped on his black glove.
"Ah finally, all this ranting was putting me to sleep" Nero said reaching for Blue Rose as Dante chuckled and reached for his guitar case.
Anderson grinned psychotically as he adjusted his glasses.
Lastly, the wolf pack each prepared themselves. Raul reached for his short swords.
"Boss!"
"I know!" Michael replied.
Down below Lucian jumped to his feet, raised his arm high above his head and balled his fist.
"ENOUGH!" he roared angrily as he smashed his fist down, cracking and forming a small hole on the table as the entire room shook.
Maxwell's eyes widened; he blinked ad took hold of the sight before him.
Every single power player had proceeded to rush to their respective leader's defense, forming a protective cover.
Alucard, Walter and Seras in front of Integra; Alucard brandishing the Jackal and Casull as he laughed wildly while Seras held an assault rifle and Walter surrounded the entire group in a covering of his micro fiber wires. Sion and Seth in front of Rosette; Sion holding Oblivion in front as Seth brandished his sword and shield in a phalanx defensive posture. Anderson crouched low in front of Maxwell, wielding scores of blessed bayonets and assorted blades even managing to hold some of them in his mouth. Nero and Dante before Seishiro; Nero revving the handle of the Red Queen while wielding Blue Rose in the opposite hand as the Devil bringer arm glowed brightly with Dante planting Rebellion into the table and wielding Ebony and Ivory in a cross pattern. Most impressive was the wolf pack; all ten wolves in formation before Vladimir and Mariska. Kathy wielding her twin revolvers, Raul brandishing his twin swords as he ignited the blades with his pyro abilities as blue flames flickered, Raven, Sergei, Alex, Robert and Hanya holding either semi-auto or full assault rifles, Karl holding twin sawed off double barrel shot guns, Hiro in a low stance with his katana prepared to be drawn and lastly with Michael at the head of the group, Fenrir drawn as he held the blade steadily in both hands parallel to the table as he stood at full height.
Lucian narrowed his eyes; his brothers standing side by side before him and assuming fighting stances. Jacob held both hands up like a boxer, tucking his cap low as a wicked grin spread across his face, one which Jason was more then happy to join as his arms doubled in muscle mass and size before dark colored fur sprout all over as his hands flexed and he formed sharp talons while Ramone simply stood with his hands behind his back.
The President and her service escorts stood to their feet, terrified of what just happened. It couldn't have been any faster than five seconds for everyone to go on the defensive like this. But what they found most impressive was that Vladimir, Integra, Seishiro and Rosette remained utterly calm and collected, not displaying any sign of fear or distress. It both intrigued and frightened them; who were these leaders to not show any fear in the presence of monsters?
"Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we got a little Mexican standoff brewing" Nero taunted and smirked as he again revved the Red Queen. Sergei and Alex pointed their guns at Anderson, "Drop the knives, pops" they said.
Alucard began laughing, "Come on Judas Priest! Engage me, draw the first blood!" he said growing more excited.
"Lucian, order your brothers down" Michael pleaded, not budging. "Fuck you, don't tell us what to do. Drop your piece homie!" Jason shouted.
"No! Drop YOUR piece!" the pack shouted back.
"Cursed be the ground, for our sake. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth, for us. For out of the ground we were taken" Anderson said spitting out two blades as they jammed into the table, reciting Scripture while Maxwell gulped loudly.
"And to the dust we shall return" the Paladin said as his grin increased.
"Alright, enough!" the President shouted slamming her hands on the table. Despite her outburst no one turned to look at her.
"I am the President of the United States of America, Linda McGuire. I will not sit back and let my fair nation and much of the free world be sent to ruin because of one madman's domination for power and glory. Too much time has already been wasted in this meeting with senseless accusations and finger pointing. I will say this only once: As President of the United States of America I order you: Lay down your weapons and stand the fuck down!" President McGuire said with severe indignation as she glared at each member of the conference.
No one spoke, for several moments until Integra cleared her throat.
"My apologies, Madam president" she said turning to President McGuire, who nodded and then back to her servants.
"Walter, Seras, Alucard. You heard her, stand down" Integra commanded. Walter instantly retracted his mico fiber wires as he jumped down from the table. "Of course madam" he said with a small bow as Seras nodded. Alucard chuckled, his eyes flashing and his hair flapping as he placed his massive pistols away. "As you command, my master" he said.
"Nero, Dante, you too." Seishiro said calmly bobbing his head. Nero sucked his teeth, revving the Red Queen as he placed the sword back behind him and tucked his revolver away. Dante frowned, "Ah man I was planning some kick ass moves already" he said as Nero chuckled.
Anderson turned to Maxwell, who seemed to regain his confidence. Maxwell bobbed his head, gesturing for Anderson to return to his post above. Placing his bayonets away Anderson fixed his glasses. "Very well then, I'll have my chance later to kill these heretics some other time"
Rosette meanwhile gently patted Sion's shoulder. "Hey, relax, I'm alright. Go on with Seth, I got it from here" she said with a wink as she smiled gently. Sion blinked before nodding towards Seth who sheathed his sword and placed his shield away. "As you wish, my lady" Sion said strapping Oblivion to his back. "You got it, boss lady" Seth grinned as Rosette blushed slightly.
Vladimir folded his fingers in a tent. "Michael, Raul, Sergei. Everyone, calm down, we're fine" He then smirked, "Thanks for having our back though" as Mariska smiled. Michael stood tall, waved his sword and proceeded to sheath it with one motion. He nodded to the pack who likewise relaxed and secured their weapons. "No sweat Boss" Raul said flashing Vladimir a thumb's up.
"Ramone, Jason, Jacob, my brothers, stand down. We swore on the Salvatore name we would side with these people and no matter what, a Salvatore always keeps his/her word. Let us move past this" Lucian said sighing and rotating his hand. Ramone, Jason and Jacob relaxed themselves. "Whatever you say bro" Jacob said as he jumped down from the table. Ramone nodded while Jason mumbled under his breath about missing a good fight.
And just as quickly as they had leapt on the defensive; each escort proceeded to return to their positions, above their respective leader overlooking the meeting.
Clearing her throat, President McGuire said "Mr. Salvatore, why such a violent outburst?" she asked.
Lucian pointed to Maxwell, "Iscariot was doing more than just trying new fighting forces. What I was going to say, was that Iscariot one point frequently employed my brothers and I for assignments. Whenever they needed a target killed, or documents recovered, they would call on the Salvatore Brothers. Isn't that right, Enrico?" Lucian said taking his seat and folding his arms.
Maxwell scoffed before clearing his throat. "It's true we used the Salvatore's. Our reasoning was simple. There hasn't been a large wide scale conflict since the Millenium invasion many years past. If war suddenly broke out, our forces would be terribly inexperienced and so the results would be disastrous. Fortunately, the Salvatore Brothers have earned a reputation as the best of the best. The mission rates they charged were negotiable and most importantly: They always got outstanding results.
Lucian smirked, pride creeping in.
"Madam President, if I may?" Vladimir stated as the President nodded. Clearing his throat he adjusted his tie and sighed.
"Look, I know we all want one thing, to stop Klaus. The only way we can do that is by working together. No more strife, no more divisions, no more mistrust and no more secrets. We must fight as one unit or Klaus will destroy everything we love" Vladimir said.
"What are you suggesting?" Director McGrath asked. Vladimir turned to him, "Unite and form a single fighting force dedicated to opposing LOD and defeating Klaus. With permission from the leaders of the United States, Great Britain, Russia, Rome, we can further pool our resources together"
Lucian narrowed his eyes, uniting as one? He didn't fully trust it could work.
"I like the idea of that, which raises another point. Some of you already know, but the other purpose to this meeting was to discuss what to do with the devices we have in our possession. Both Hellsing and the Order of the Cross secured them respectively, question is, where do we keep them until we can figure out Klaus' next objective?" President McGuire asked.
Integra said, "I believe I have some ideas"
The meeting continued, without anymore outbursts. However, no one noticed that Master Sato managed to slip out. Even Vladimir was too focused to notice the location of his martial arts mentor.
"Is everything set? Yes? Good, very good" Master Sato said speaking into a cell phone, pacing back and forth. He was two hall down from the conference room as he spoke to an unknown individual.
"Yes, he will be most pleased. It's been far too long. Yes. Yes, ah good, they will prove much useful. Once Klaus comes, and trust me, he will, this will definitely turn the tide in our favor. I look forward to seeing you. Good bye" and with that he hung up the phone and procceded to walk away. Moments later he re-entered the room as all eyes were drawn on him.
"Sensei? Hey when did you leave?" Vladimir asked concerned. Master Sato closed his eyes, smiling.
"I'm old my boy, when you gotta go, you gotta go. No need to fret over this old man, go, continue on" Master Sato stated walking back to his position. Vladimir shrugged and turned his focus back to the meeting.
Master Sato leaned against the pillar, arms folded as he listened to Vladimir speak. Above, Michael watched the aging martial art master.
"Boss, something wrong?" Karl asked. Michael narrowed his eyes. "No…no it's fine" he said half telling the truth.
End Chapter
Thanks for reading! Next chapter on the way!
Coming up; The meeting continues with more revelations. This time, dark secrets are brought to light. Kazuya's mysterious origin is brought into questioning as well as Iscariot's involvement with his past killings. As our heroes continue, more terror lurks in the dark culminating with a shocking development. Stay tuned!