Disclaimer: Klaus unleashes his massive army as LOD begins a brutal and devastating siege as all of New York City is plunged into the chaos and horror of war. Klaus makes his declaration known: By sundown, Manhattan will submit to his machinations or be wiped out in a single event. As vampires, Ghouls, demons and other horrifying creatures terrorize the city, killing and feeding at their leisure it seems no hope remains.
But all is not lost. Despite the setback, our heroes unite and begin to counter LOD's attack. The United States military sends massive aid to the city as soldiers fight back against Klaus' army. Vladimir, Integra, Rosette and others send forth their soldiers with a clear mission objective:
Destroy Klaus and his minions.
Alucard and the others plummet straight into the heart of war, fighting off Klaus' minions, but they are not alone. Some much needed help is coming in the form of old enemies and rivals, roused to oppose Klaus at all costs.
The fight for Manhattan and for the world at large begins now.
Chapter Thirty Six- The New York Siege Part I
Klaus folded his arms behind his back, a prideful and content smile creeping on his lips as his eyes scanned the sight before him. He was enjoying the devastation caused by his army as they were poured into the city. Klaus could see from about 42nd st through most of Midtown, vampires armed to the teeth with high tech weaponry laid waste to much of the opposition. Times Square in particular was the scenes of a vicious struggle as the military fought against the vampire scurge. A squadron of tanks and armored vehicles formed a protective barrier on the corner of 7th avenue, just as a platoon of vampires descended down the street, opening fire on the soldiers in their path.
Helicopters and fighter jets flew through the air, raining down missiles and other projectiles.
Klaus chuckled, the wind stirring his long hair as it flowed gently along with his cloak. From behind him, Theokoles scowled and folded his arms out of frustration.
"This your grand plan of things? Using vampires and other beasts? This is no different than when you asshats struck against London" Theokoles complained, growing bored with the tedium of how things were operating.
Klaus simply gazed at him out the corner of his eyes before turning his attention back to the fighting.
"In time friend, in time. The world witnessed only but a mere fraction of your terrifying power. Today you will get the opportunity to show yourself entirely" Klaus stated waving one arm.
Theokoles narrowed his eyes, not entirely trusting Klaus.
"There's something else too" Theokoles began. Klaus did not motion or budge, his back still facing Theokoles.
"Don't think I forgot about before. My promise still stands: The minute you fuck up, you're mine" Theokoles threatened as he turned and began walking away. Klaus did not utter a sound, instead merely reaching into his robes. A moment later he pulled out a small jar filled with blue solution.
Theokoles felt a sharp jabbing sensation creep through his chest, halting his steps as he staggered and his eyes widened.
"Like I told Lucian. I would not invest in a weapon as powerful as yourself without failsafe plan. There is no need for threats" Klaus then slowly turned, a sadistic grin on his face as he held up the sacred jar containing Theokoles' heart.
"Because I will not make any more mistakes. Not after 2,000 long years" Klaus stated placing the jar away and turning back to watching his army unleash more devastation.
Back in the city, Klaus' army continued to unleash a devastating amount of destruction as they ravaged Manhattan. The citizens ad civilians of New York could only do their best to flee the destruction, but death seemed to be on every corner. Vampires continued pouring into the city, shooting, feeding and killing any in their sight. Ghouls began to appear as well, formed by draining the life of non virgins. However much like the vampires which sired them, these were super powered Ghouls, far faster and stronger than the typical specimens. They tore through the streets of Manhattan, searching for their next feed.
The Reaper Horde led by the massively powerful and imposing Rogue continued their slaughter. Rogue stood atop a crumbling building just above 57th and 7th avenue, half kneeling as he watched his forces march down the street in platoon formation. With a deep hiss he raised his right fist. "SSSLAAAUGHTERRR" he shouted as his horde roared in response.
Just as they approached 58th a massive explosion sent several of the Reapers crashing to the floor while some were thrown several feet into the air in a terrible inferno. Rogue looked on with mild curiosity, blinking twice as his long flowing white hair rustled slightly.
About four large armored tanks slowly rolled down, firing projectiles, cutting a path through the Reaper horde who raised their massive shields, forming a phalanx as they tried to shield themselves.
Two of the tanks fired, colliding into the platoon and creating another massive fiery explosion. When the smoke cleared, they could see, much to the horror of the ones stationed in the tanks their enemies were unharmed.
Rogue stood infront of his horde, a massive shield of his black crows swarming around himself and his troops. With a grunt he dispersed the shield of crows, slowly raising his right hands. Holding it flat in a knife hand strike, he concentrated as dark red energy pulsed and formed around his hand, the tips of his fingers forming jagged and sharp claw like talons.
Rogue wasted no time. With blinding speed he sprinted forward as his horde cheered him on. Taking his right hand he sliced through the first two tanks with ease as they imploded from the destruction. Rogue then jumped unto the third tanks, smashing it in one stomp as he began ripping off large pieces. The final tank remaining tried desperately to shoot him, only for him to catch the projectile with his bare hand and harmlessly crush it. Rogue then sprinted in a blur towards the tank. Jumping on top he took his fist, smashing the top as he opened the hatch and pulled the driver out as the man flailed helplessly in Rogue's grip. The leader of the Reaper Horde stared the man right in his eyes as he flinched.
"Why?! Why are you doing this?!" he asked. It was all in vain. With his free hand, Rogue pulled out his massive and imposing claymore.
"DIE GROUNDWALKER!" and in one motion sliced the man's head clean off as his horde cheered behind him. Rogue tossed the severed head over his shoulder and jumped down, grunting for the Horde to continue on.
Across the city, members of LOD found their place in the chaos of war. At Times Square, Ryoga, Rein and Rashkor were occupied with fighting the growing resistance. Rashkor grinned sadistically as he blew his dog whistle. Instantly, large packs of Sires began swarming through the streets, pouncing on policemen and military officers and tearing them to shreds. Rein adjusted his glasses and flicked his wrist, massive bolts of lightning rained down from the sky, zapping and incinerating any in their path. Ryoga calmly pulled one of his twin katanas out, beginning to cut and slice through several police officers while the rest tried firing on him.
In the Financial District, Sage, Victoria, Mugetsu, Arthur and others led large squadrons of vampires on a bloody rampage. They had formed a massive barrier near one of the large banks, holding dozens of citizens hostage whilst shooting any remaining military and police officers.
The death and destruction unleashed by Klaus' army was not limited solely to the downtown areas. Uptown neighborhoods as far as Harlem saw similar devastation, and with no signs of slowing down.
Meanwhile, the armed forces were busy trying to contain and prevent further damage and loss to the city. Evacuation check points were being set up across Manhattan with civilians fleeing for their lives, leaving the fighting behind for the police and military. Ambulance and other emergency first responders were flocking to sights where vampires and other beasts laid waste to their victims.
Back at the UN however, chaos continued to reign as the military fought earnestly to clear a path, namely so that the president could be evacuated.
"Clear out! I said clear the fuck out!" Dexter said raising his handgun and firing off a shot, but it was in vain. He along with Rosette, Vladimir and Integra were busy making a path to a convoy waiting to escort President McGuire to an emergency checkpoint. Leading the way, Dexter grabbed his radio, just as several officers shoved past him.
"Dutch where the hell are you?" he shouted.
"Two minutes cuz I'll be there!" came the response.
Dexter led his group to the end of the street. Four large armored vans surrounded the President's limo, waiting to pull off.
"I'm going with Madam President, you guys get yourselves an escort and then get the hell out. I've got to meet up with Dutch after and we're heading into the city" Dexter said opening the door and allowing President McGuire to step inside while he waited.
"No, I'll go. Dexter you need to meet with Dutch, I can escort the President" Rosette said as she stared at him. Vladimir turned to Mariska, she nodded, he then said "We'll join you"
"As will we" Integra said noticing Walter approaching. Dexter sighed and nodded, he saw no point in trying to argue. Everyone began piling in when he pulled Rosette aside.
"Babe listen, anything happens to me I want you to-"
But he was cut off when Rosette grabbed him tightly and pulled him close, beginning a passionate and warm kiss lasting several moments. She broke the kiss and stared into his eyes.
"Come back to me, alive" She then playfully tapped his jaw with her fist and smiled. "That's an order agent". Kissing him one last time she stepped inside. Last one to enter was Vladimir.
"Listen, Vladimir, I know we don't know each other that well but do me a favor?" Dexter began when Vladimir held his hand up. "Dude no need, I would ask the same thing of you if it were my own wife. I'll protect Rosette like she were my own flesh and blood, as a Sokolov, you have my word" Vladimir said as he and Dexter shook hands strongly.
"Take care brother"
"Same to you"
Dexter then tapped on the hood of the car, signaling to the driver to pull off as the convoy drove off.
Dexter grabbed his radio again, "This is Dexter, does anyone copy?"
"Go ahead Dexter, this is unit 315"
Dexter paused, "Who's your squad leader?"
"Pulcini here. Dex that you?"
"Ah good listen up. Get me all available units over to Times Square. From there, get Gamma squad over to 7th and 8th avenues. The place is crawling with suck heads. If we can't clear the streets then all these evacuation zones will be for nothing. Madam President is en route to one as we speak so that takes care of our first priority"
"Roger, Pulcini out" as the radio clicked off and Dexter sighed heavily. He heard a loud booming explosion coming from further within the city and clenched his fists in frustration.
Moments later Dutch sped up to the curb in his car, honking the horn.
"Hurry up and get ya ass in we gotta roll NOW!" he shouted as his cousin opened the door and sat inside as Dutch quickly sped off.
Across Town…
"We're live here in Midtown Manhattan in the midst of this chaos! The city is in a total state of war as untold nightmares are unleashed here in the Big Apple. Ladies and gentlemen…it appears as the monsters of old are indeed real, very real. Whatever these creatures are, they have appeared out of nowhere and are killing and feeding on anyone in their wake. The military and police forces are bravely fighting back, but at the moment it seems as if their efforts will be for naught"
A news anchor was busy reporting on the fighting near Columbus Circle as National Guardsmen fought off countless waves of Ghouls. A barricade had been set up right on 59th near the entrance to Central Park as Guardsmen fired from heavy artillery rifles as the undead fiends continued to march towards them.
"Get that goddamn TV crew out now!" the captain shouted as he ducked his head down from an explosion. The horde of Ghouls marched up Columbus circle, screeching and growling as many of them continued falling.
Suddenly another explosion rocked the ground sending several men crashing to the floor. As they struggled to their feet they saw in the center of the street two massive lumbering figures, strapped with double barrel Vulcan cannons. The monsters grinned sadistically as they raised their weapons.
"GRIIIIIND!"
"HUUUUNGEERRR!"
And with that, the Juggernauts began laying heavy suppressive fire down on the Guardsmen posted at Columbus circle, tearing through several of the soldiers like tissue paper.
While this transpired, the President's convoy continued navigating the war torn streets of the city. Cars and other vehicles were set on fire as they burned viciously. The ground was cracked and scorched, buildings crumbled and people were fleeing for their lives. An F22 Raptor quickly flew overhead, followed by several more as the fighter jets circled over several of the taller sky scrapers, raining down missiles in the distance.
"My God…this is preposterous. What's the point of all this killing and fighting?! Why is he making innocents suffer if it's us he wants?" President McGuire shouted angrily as she swore for the fifth time and slammed her fist on the seat. The President watched from the window as Klaus' forces continued laying waste to New York.
Sitting next to her, Integra calmly said "It's not us he wants. This is Klaus' message to all of the world, to all who will oppose LOD. Klaus is using this not just to cause bloodshed, but to rouse a deaf world." She said clenching her own fists tightly as they continued driving on. Rosette, Vladimir, Walter and Mariska were silent, but found themselves agreeing with Integra.
The driver in the front then said, "We're nearing the halfway point. I'm sorry it is taking so long Ma'am but we had to go around as much of the fighting as we could to ensure your safety"
The President nodded calmly, "That is fine, you do what you must" she said. Rosette then checked her watch; the time was 5:45. This day seemed to drag on endlessly.
A few moments later, one of the escort vehicles two cars ahead of the President's limo suddenly exploded in a fiery blaze, halting the escort.
"Shit! What happened?!" Vladimir shouted as the car slammed to a shout.
"Shit! We're under attack!" the driver said opening the door and stepping out. He grabbed his assault rifle, cocked it and opened fire on the scores of vampires which had formed a barrier, halting the escort and surrounding the vehicles. Several of the soldiers had formed around the President's limo, firing back on the vampires who returned the fire.
The driver of the limo then hollered as his body was riddled with bullets. Dropping to the floor he tried one last vein attempt to fire only to be shot in the head as he slumped down, dead, his rifle falling to the floor beside him.
Rosette jumped into the driver's seat, grabbing his rifle, shutting the door and reached for the radio.
"This is the President's convoy, we are under attack! We need assistance right away" Rosette shouted.
"What?! Goddamn it we're swamped as it is, we can't afford to send any back up. Get your asses out there NOW!" came the response.
Rosette snorted, switching the ignition. She turned back to the group, "Hang on!" she shouted as she slammed on the pedal as the car sped off, bullets whizzing past with some hitting the windows and door. Vampires continued firing on the President's limo as Rosette drove off as fast as she could.
Elsewhere…
"Your majesty" a vampire said suddenly appearing by Klaus' side, kneeling down to one knee with his head bowed.
Klaus casually turned in his direction, staring out the corner of his eye.
"The President's convoy is under attack, but, she has escaped. They are fleeing along Columbus Avenue, heading uptown nearing 73rd" the vampire reported.
Klaus narrowed his eyes, the vampire subordinate flinching. "I see. Disperse, I have just the solution" he commanded as the vampire nodded then disappeared in a red light. Klaus turned to the city, raising his right palm into the air.
"Attention all vampires of LOD! This is your greatness, his majesty speaking! I want any and all available units to be dispatched towards 72 and Columbus. President McGuire's escort is en route there as I speak. Your orders: Apprehend the President at any cost and bring her to me, alive. Kill any in your way. Now go my children!"
Klaus lowered his hand, grinning wickedly as he again chuckled.
On the streets below, scores of the vampire troops heard the telepathic message sent by Klaus. Standing over the bleeding carcass of a woman he had just killed, one vampire raised his fist, signaling to the other troops.
"His majesty commands us! Capture the President!" he shouted as dozens of the vampires shouted in response. Abandoning their current fighting they sprinted off in the direction toward Columbus Avenue. In time they were joined by more of their kind including dozens of Ghouls, all sprinting at top speed through the city streets. Despite the ground level being littered with crumbling ruin such as concrete and debris and smashed vehicles, the vampires used their superior agility and coordination to neatly sprint around each obstacle.
Their target: Capture the President and kill any in their way.
Meanwhile…
"GTA MOTHERFUCKER!" Dutch shouted for the fourth time. He smashed the accelerator, running over a Ghoul as the fiend went flying into the air and crashed back down.
"Ten points!" he said turning the wheel sharply as the car slammed into another Ghoul sending the fiend crashing into a building. Dutch along with Dexter were driving through the streets, staying in the general downtown area as they lended their assistance to the fighting taking place.
Making a sharp right, Dutch turned on 58th and Amsterdam, hitting the accelerator even faster.
Grabbing his radio, Dexter spoke into it. "HQ come in over"
"HQ, go ahead Dex"
"What's the status on the city's evacuation?"
"We're still behind capacity, the check points and evac sites are continuously being overrun by vampires and Ghouls. The more we kill, the more take their place. At this rate we might not evacuate even 1/3 of the city's civilians. Those unfortunate enough to be left behind, may end up having to dig in until we get a better hold on things"
Dexter swore and slammed his fist on the seat. Dutch made another sharp turn, avoiding spray gunfire as a group of soldiers fired on a pack of Sires.
"What of the President?" Dexter asked.
"No word on Madam President, reports last indicate her convoy was ambushed but that she managed to flee. Haven't heard anything since"
Dexter closed his eyes, praying earnestly that the President, and specifically Rosette, were ok. He then said, "HQ, how close are we to an evac site?"
"You're approaching the Midtown one. Head uptown toward 68th and Broadway, we've got multiple convoys but they're under heavy fire"
"Roger, Dutch and I are on the way" Dexter said placing his radio away. Dutch at that point said, "Take the wheel"
Dexter stared, not sure if he were serious.
"Nigga hurry up! I can't drive and call at the same time!" Dutch shouted angrily as Dexter took the steering wheel.
"What? Call who?!" Dexter shouted back exasperated.
But Dutch did not answer. Instead he reached for under his seat and pulled out a small steel box. Taking the wheel from Dexter, he simply nodded and focused back on driving.
Ten minutes later the pair rounded the corner of 67th st, only to find that it was a massive war zone. Police, fire and medical vehicles barricaded and swarmed the street and sidewalks as civilians hustled through, guided by EMT workers and firemen. Just a block ahead, soldiers in heavy combat gear and armed with assault rifles fired off round after round on a band of encroaching Ghouls as the fiends kept coming.
Jumping out of their car, Dexter and Dutch, armed with assault rifles joined the melee. Police and armed forced had set up a barricade on the steps of the massive and sprawling museum. Ghouls continued shuffling toward them as the soldiers fought to keep them away as they also fought to evacuate the numerous civilians still in the area.
"Dexter! What the HELL is going on?! What the hell are those things?!" the captain asked watching as Dexter opened fire, he shot three Ghouls through the heart, killing them instantly and turning their bodies to ash causing many of the soldiers to stare in shock.
"We emptied entire rounds and these things kept coming!" One shouted.
"They're Ghouls, re-animated human corpses which have been sired by a Vampire. When a Vampire drinks from a non-virgin, or from a virgin of the same gender, the Ghoul is created as a sort of zombie to its vampire master. They can only be killed with silver, piercing the heart is the way to go. However, these things have been fed demon blood to increase their power. Only blessed objects, holy water or sacred ash will do the trick. Our weapons use bullets cleansed with blessed water" Dexter rattled off as quickly as he could.
The captain stared back; had it been any other individual he would have written them off as mad. But being this was war, and given the stories he had already been hearing about some of the other monstrous creatures, he figured there was no point in arguing.
Just then a woman ran up to the group, crying hysterically.
"My daughter! My daughter is trapped inside!" she said pointing up to the massive high rise studio apartment. Dexter and Dutch looked up to see, much to their horror, a little girl of maybe eight or nine dangling precariously from a broken and destroyed window ledge.
"MOMMY!" the little girl screamed, tears falling down her face as he continued crying.
"Shit! Get some men up there!" Dutch shouted turning his attention as he fired on more of the Ghouls.
"We might not make it in time!" a soldier responded as he grabbed his radio. Fire trucks began approaching, honking their sirens as they slowly approached. The mother had to be restrained by two EMT workers as she continued crying "Save my baby!"
The little girls felt he grip slipping; it was only a matter of time until she would fall. Crying and screaming, she gradually lost grip strength.
"Mommy please help!" she shouted.
"Damn it all!" Dexter shouted sprinting for the building. But it was too late, with a final cry the little girl's grip gave out and she slipped, plummeting at a rapid pace. Every onlooker shouted in absolute terror, with several pausing, watching as she fell to her inevitable death.
"Megan! No!" her mother shouted, tears pouring down her face.
As Megan fell, suddenly, a black shape appeared out of nowhere. It snatched Megan out of the air, ending her free fall and crashed into the side of the adjacent building, half sliding down half plummeting to the ground. After a few seconds the shape landed gracefully to the ground level as everyone looked on in relief.
This 'shape' turned out to be a man, a tall and well built one as he cradled Megan in his arms. He stood to full height, wearing a black denim vest, black cargo pants, a black tank top and a black belt with a large buckle. Strapped to his back were a large sword complete with a shield.
"Whoo, just made it. You're safe now Megan" he said gently setting her down just as her mother ran over, snatching the girl into her arms in a passionate hug.
"Oh dear lord thank you! Thank you!" she said, tears of relief streaming down her face as mother and child reunited.
Dexter recognized this individual instantly.
"Seth!"
Seth smirked, turning his attention to the fighting as he waved his hand.
"Everyone, go!"
Instantly, several more individuals surfaced all taking place in the action. Alucard and Seras formed in a swarm of bats, the vampire count laughing wildly as he opened his jacket, revealing his massive weaponry.
"Cromwell Restrictions 3…2…1…RELEASE!" he shouted and opened fire on any Ghoul in his path. Seras appeared, armed with twin assault rifles as she unleashed a hail of bullets.
Dante and Nero appeared, standing back to back. Dante firing from Ebony and Ivory with Nero firing from Blue Rose.
Sion teleported in the center of the street, in the way of encroaching vampires who attempted to breach the evac zone. With a wicked glare Sion removed Oblivion from across his back, beginning to hack and slice through the undead foes at breakneck speeds.
Lastly, the entire wolf pack emerged amidst their howls of anticipation. Sergei, Alex, Raul, Robert, Kathy, Karl, Raven, Hanya, Hiro and lastly Michael along with the Salvatores Lucian, Ramone, Jason and Jacob jumped straight into the fray, each brandishing their respective weapon and/or guns as they tore through the vampires and Ghouls.
"Captain, here's your chance. Leave the fighting here to us, you get your men out, get the wounded on evac and clear out what little of the civilians you can. Quick, go!" Dutch shouted as the captain nodded and commanded his forces to fall back. Bit by bit, the site was being cleared out. Civilians loaded up into escort trucks and vans as they began pulling out of the streets and driving off.
Michael slashed through several vampires, kicking one in the face as he spun, wielding his blade Fenrir tightly as he would spin, hack and slash while avoiding any gunfire. Kathy was beside, firing from her twin revolvers. Raul used his twin short blades, combining his pyrokinetic powers as he incinerated his foes to a crisp.
The Salvatores were perhaps the most violent, mercilessly ripping, biting, tearing, and slashing through their opponents.
Suddenly, the ground began shaking, rumbling several times before a deep BOOM sound filled the air. Some 50 feet away from the group, the ground quaked, cracking and crumbling as something massive emerged. It stood about two stories tall, resembling an African Black Rhino, only it had four horns as opposed to two. It had the body shape of a horse but with six legs resembling those of a lion. The beast snorted twice and gave a long and loud awful roar.
"Oh ho so this ugly shit wants to play? I call dibs!" Jason shouted excitedly as Lucian merely cocked his brow.
"No way, I call it!" Dante said in reply as Jason flashed him an exasperated look.
"Nope. It's ours!" Sergei and Alex said.
The beast stomped twice, the ground shaking as it charged forward. Alucard laughed and prepared to speak when a voice halted his and everyone's movement.
"Allow me the first shot"
Dexter, along with everyone else turned to see some very interesting company approach. The ground was thumping, rumbling as massive behemoth approached the group. This new individual, stood some eight feet tall, dressed in black jumpsuit pants and a white tank top. He was massively muscled with large hands and feet, a bulbous dome shaped head, flat nose and had awful oversized sharp teeth, his mouth twisted in a savage grin as he chuckled periodically.
Attached to his ankles were large ball and chain weights, from the looks of them each must have weighed a good 40 lbs. His wrists were bound by thick and heavy chains and he had a twisted thick steel shock collar around his neck.
Dexter cocked his brow, watching as this newcomer walked straight up to him.
"You're late" he said rather nonchalantly. Dutch looked at him, to the massive monster now standing some three feet away and back again. Seth and the others looked on curiously.
Raskos sneered; his teeth dripping saliva as he shrugged.
"Those bastards at Hart's didn't want me coming. But I managed to convince them. So, this is what Klaus has planned huh? Sounds just like him. Let's get something out the way: I'm doing this to get back at that bastard, not because I want to join the good guys. Get it?"
Dexter smirked, scratching his head.
"Yo! Dex, we got company!" Seth shouted as he reached for a pistol. Everyone turned to watch as scores of vampires suddenly began appearing on the rooftops of many of the surrounding buildings. Alongside were scores of Ghouls as the zombie like creature howled and snapped their jaws. The vampires, armed with heavy weaponry bared down on the group as everyone prepared.
The Rhino beast roared and charged forward. Raskos snorted, calmly walking forward, past Alucard, Dante, Nero, Seras, Lucian and the others as he stared the beast straight on.
"Raskos…we could use that anger of yours. I know you want to be thought of as a dangerous monster. But right now, we could actually use the monster" Dexter called out.
Raskos paused, slowly turning back. He then grinned, seemingly ignoring the charging beast as it neared closer and closer.
"Anger is what I do best Dexter"
Raskos slowly turned, just as the beast was inches away, initiating a swift but mighty transformation as he shredded through his shirt, his black pants ripping to knee length as long shreds hung down as Raskos balled his fist up, letting out a massive grunt as his fist connected with the beasts snout, halting its movement and causing its back to fold in a sickening crunch as it gave out a loud wail.
Raskos' skin turned a sickly and milky pale color he had grown now to 10 feet tall, his red and green eyes flashing dangerously and his nails turning jet black as he roared and exerted further pressure into his punch as the beast howled in agony.
Nero took the opportunity. He sprinted forward, climbing on Raskos' back and jumping into the air over the creature. Raising the Devil Bringer arm as the spectral shape grew to colossal sizes as Nero shouted and brought his fist down in a savage punch, complexly smashing the beast to a sickening pulp.
"Hang on!" Lucian shouted as he and his brothers took position, each holding their right hand out, fingers spread as they concentrated. Bright golden sparks of energy formed as they released deadly balls of concentrated energy, clashing with the remains and igniting a massive and powerful explosion as a deep BOOM filled the air, stirring a massive gust of winds.
Seth raised his shield, dashing to Seras' side as he shielded himself and her while everyone else took cover, avoiding falling debris and bits of the creatures charred flesh.
Around them, the vampires and Ghouls cried out in anger, their howls filling the air.
But that did not phase the group.
Raskos' ripped off the last bit of his shirt as he also tore away his chained restraints, tossed it and reared back, beating his chest and giving a thunderous and powerful roar echoing for miles. Around him, the group came together, banding as a single fighting unit as they formed a circle, back to back.
Alucard, Seras, Dante, Nero, Sion, Seth, Lucian, Ramone, Jason, Jacob, Michael, Raul, Karl, Kathy, Sergei, Alex, Hanya, Hiro, Raven, Robert all brandishing their respective guns and/or weaponry as Dexter approached in the center, Dutch following in suit.
"Well, now what?" Dutch asked. Dexter turned as everyone looked at him.
"We fight, we win, and we kill them all. But we do it together" He turned to Lucian. "As a team" he stressed, emphasizing teamwork. Lucian snorted a reply as his eyes intensified.
"First up, there's still a lot of people trapped around the city. We help the ones we can. Evac sites are set up all around the island, but the most concentrated areas are also the ones under attack. Get as many civilians as you can into any of the available convoy escorts and out of harm's way. Second thing is containment; at this rate the destruction we're dealing with here will spread into the other boroughs. Right now a large portion of the fighting is occurring between here in Midtown. There is also heavy casualties and damage reported on Columbus Circle, Times Square, Herald Square, Penn Station, the Financial District, Wall Street and the South Street Seaport. The second objective is to contain as many of the vampires and ghouls as we can, no matter what we have to make sure they don't spread beyond Manhattan. What we'll do is set up various intersecting blockades around four key areas, from there we will funnel Klaus' army into one space and eliminate them all"
"There's also the problem of Rashkor. He's summoning every monster under his control. There's also the Reaper Horde led by Rogue, packs of Sires are ripping anything in their path and the Juggernaut units as well" Seth added in as Dexter nodded.
"Ok Seth, take Seras, Alucard and Nero over to Times Square. Seth you have experience dealing with Rashkor's pawns, you can assist any of our troops struggling against them. Dante, head over with Sion down to the Financial District." Dexter explained as he then turned to wolves.
"Michael, this is where your pack comes in. Use your pack's size to help establish a perimeter. Anything coming within 50 feet you haul ass and funnel it back into our forces." The pack promptly howled an eager response.
Dexter then turned to the Salvatores.
"Lucian, take your brothers, and do what you do best. The Salvatore Brothers are the best of the best. Time to show Klaus and his army why that is"
Jason and Jacob each gave an excited and satisfied howl while Ramone narrowed his eyes. Lucian held out his right fist tightly, charging power as his eyes flashed dangerously.
Seras gently placed her hand on Seth's shoulder, "Ready to rock?" she asked smiling as he grinned back.
"Let's do it" Nero said determined as he revved the Red Queen's handle.
Lastly, Dexter turned towards Raskos as the lumbering behemoth had his eyes still fixed on the vampires and Ghouls surrounding them.
"And Raskos…" Dexter said.
Raskos slowly turned and stared down at Dexter, who slowly raised his finger, pointing at him before he smirked.
"Smash" Dexter stated simply.
Raskos grinned, exposing his large and ferocious teeth. With a howl Raskos jumped high into the air, landing on top of one of the adjacent buildings, immediately beginning to combat the vampires and Ghouls. They swarmed him, only to be pummeled by his massive fists as Raskos roared terribly while punching and crushing them to bloody bits. He spun, backhanding several Ghouls as their heads were knocked off with blood spraying out. Vampires fired on him, their bullets having little effect as Raskos charged straight through them, plowing them into a generator and creating a massive explosion sending fire and smoke into the air.
"This is all you've got?! Give me a REAL fight!" Raskos roared angrily as he sprinted forward, jumping clear to the next building and continuing his assault, smashing, ripping and tearing through Klaus' army.
And with that, the counter to Klaus' army began.
Meanwhile…
"Oh shit! Hang on!" Rosette yelled as she swerved, avoiding a collapsed truck. Vladimir rolled down the window and stuck his head out, then felt his stomach sink at the sight. He could see about three dozen vampires pursing them at full speed. Powered by the demon blood coursing through their veins, they were moving much faster then typical vampires, snarling, hissing and grunting as they pursued.
"Rosette! We've got company!" he said sticking his head back inside just as a few of the vampires opened fire. Bullets riddled the limo as Rosette continued speeding as fast as she could.
"Madam President, please, try to stay as low as you can. They're after you" Integra said shifting position with the President. Reaching inside her jacket she removed her side arm. Rolling down the window, Integra aimed for the nearest vampire as the fiend opened its jaws in a twisted and hungry sneer. Integra fired four rounds, hitting it in the face as the brute roared angrily in pain and crashed, tumbling several times before smashing into a car. Its comrades pressed the attack, firing on the limo. One sprinted beside, reaching the driver side as it cocked its rifle, intending to shoot Rosette. She took the wheel with her right hand, firing from her gun with the left, killing the vampire as it howled in agony. Rosette again spun the wheel sharply to the right, using the limo as a ram as she knocked several vampires to the side, smashing them into several buildings as she regained control.
Rosette turned left, then another left followed by a right. Coming down a long stretch of road, she continued driving the limo only to find something blocking the path ahead.
Three vampires and a Juggernaut blocked ahead. The Juggernaut roared and opened fire from its massive Vulcan cannon as bullets sprayed the limo causing it to slow down. The vampires then bent down, picking up large rocket launchers as Rosette's eyes widened.
"Shit, everyone get down!" Rosette shouted slamming the brakes and turning as everyone ducked down inside the limo.
The vampires fired; two of the missiles just barely missing the limo while the last impacted right in front, sending the limo swerving before it bounced and rolled several times, past the vampires and Juggernaut as a large explosion rocked the street.
The limo rolled to a complete halt, now several feet from its original impact as it was turned on its side, the windows smashed in, with the hood of the car completely blown away as steam rose slowly.
Moments later, the door to the driver side slammed open. Rosette groaning and struggling as she slipped out, collapsing to the floor in a heap. Her ears were ringing; she bled from her left ear lobe and had a gash across her forehead as well as a few cuts across her arms, legs and her back. Her pants were dirty and torn as was her sweater.
"Oh Jesus. Is everyone ok?" she said slowly standing to her feet. Vladimir swore as he struggled to free himself, moments later Mariska exited followed by Walter.
"Oh God, help me with the President" Integra said struggling as she gently pulled President McGuire free.
"Is she hurt?" Vladimir said turning around. The President was slumped in Integra's arms, she had several cuts around her face and a large welt on her temple. There was a large laceration across her right thigh.
"Shit she's hurt bad, but she's alive. We've got to get her to some aid and quick. Can everyone walk?" Rosette said kicking off her heels and tossing them aside. Walter stared, astonished she would wing it barefooted.
"I think…URGH!" Integra grunted and collapsed to her knees.
"Integra! Let me see…ok. You've got some bruising to your ribs. I don't think anything is broken but try to steady your breathing" Vladimir said slinging her arm around him and supporting her by the waist. He prepared to speak when he looked behind them.
"Oh…fuck!"
Approaching was the Juggernaut from before, followed by the same group of about three dozen vampires. The Juggernaut roared, raising its cannon.
"GRRIIIIIIND!" it snarled.
"Come on!" Rosette said reaching inside the limo for the rifle as she ejected the empty clip.
"Go leave me, I'll just slow you down. Take the President and get out" Integra said gritting her teeth.
"My lady" Walter began but she cut him off.
"Integra, no one gets left behind. No matter what. Don't be ridiculous" Mariska said kneeling beside her.
"That's right. We Sokolov's have a motto: Neither rain nor sleet, not hail nor snow, nor vampires or Ghouls, a Sokolov never leaves a comrade behind, especially a woman. Now, up we go" Vladimir said. He took his arm, tossing Integra over his right shoulder and steadying her. He then picked the President up, lifting her limp form over his other shoulder, steadying both women before nodding. "Let's move, we've got to try and get off the street" The President gave a light moan, her head stirring very slightly as she and Integra were carried away by Vladimir.
The entire group jogged down the street, Rosette leading at the head with Walter flanking the center and Vladimir carrying the wounded Integra and still unconscious President over his shoulders.
"Shit! Vladimir look out!" Integra said looking up as her body bounced with Vladimir's every step.
Rosette turned, dropping to her knee and opening fire, killing four vampires as she then rolled out the way of their return fire. Vladimir paused; dozens and dozens of vampires slowly marched toward from ahead. He turned back, watching as his wife, Walter and Rosette soon approached. They formed a circle, watching as their enemies closed in. The vampires eyes glowed and eerie crimson, retaining the green irises typical of vampires consuming demon blood. Hissing and snarling they aimed their rifles as one stepped forward, slowly pulling his face mask down as he spoke.
"Your courage is impressive. But this is where the line ends. Our master, his greatness, his Majesty, Klaus, demands we bring him the President. Your options are simple" the vampire stated adjusting his combat uniform as he raised two fingers.
"Surrender the President, and die" he said as several began laughing. He then said, "Surrender the President, prostrate yourselves before his Majesty and submit to his every machination"
"Go to hell blood fiend" Walter stated placing his gloves on, releasing his micro wires as they swarmed and surrounded the group.
"Surrender? I was staring down whole packs of Werewolves when I was 10 years old. A few vampires on demon blood doesn't scare me" Mariska said tossing her hair and moving closer to her husband.
"Vladimir, put me down, I can stand" Integra said as Vladimir gently set her down, still holding the President's plump form over his shoulder as he scowled.
"Hellsing has never submitted to her enemies, nor shall we ever" Integra said folding her arms, wincing in pain from her injuries.
The vampires again laughed, cocking their rifles.
"Then Hellsing along with her comrades, shall die!" the lead vampire shouted as he charged forward. He jumped into the air, straight for Vladimir who braced for the worst. Just as the vampire seemed ready to tear into him it froze in mid-air, slowly landing to its feet about four feet away. Eyes wide, its skin turned deathly pale as it slowly turned around, apparently in severe agony.
The group watching gasped; deeply lodged in the vampires back and shoulders were seven large throwing knives, intricately designed with various Japanese kanji complete with a black handle. The vampire groaned, steam rising from the wounds it received.
"What…what is this?! Blessed blades?!" he shouted. A final blade was thrown into the vampire's heart causing it to explode in a gory mess as blood splattered the ground. The vampire horde surrounding Integra and the others began frantically looking around them, not seeing who the culprit was.
Vladimir blinked and then looked up above the group, gathered on top of the adjacent building was a group of about 15 individuals, dressed in ornately designed clothing. A lead figure among them began chuckling before waving down towards Vladimir.
"Just in time, saving your ass at the last minute. Just like when we were kids and you almost go jumped by those goons from the rival school. Been too long, little bro, boy we missed ya!"
Vladimir instantly recognized this newcomer, beaming with joy and excitement. "Oh MAN! You guys are here as well? We couldn't ask for a more suitable team!" he said happily. Integra, Walter and Rosette looked at each other in utter confusion, then to Vladimir and above to the individual speaking.
The vampires drew their weapons and began drawing in closer, only to be halted by more blades being thrown, killing four more of their ranks as a few began panicking.
They looked up at the surrounding buildings to see that a massive group was forming on the building tops, staring down, armed with lethal weaponry. The vampires were utterly outnumbered, frantically scanning in every direction.
"Ah, I hope we haven't arrived too late, my boy" a familiar voice said as Vladimir looked back up to see none other than Master Sato, standing next to the individual Vladimir first greeted.
"Sensei!" Vladmir called out excitedly as his master nodded calmly.
"Soldiers of the White Lotus. Our enemy are vampires, let us make ourselves better acquainted" Master Sato called out to the massive army he appeared to be leading.
End Chapter
Coming up next: Vladimir, Integra and Rosette are rescued by old allies of Vladimir's going back to his childhood days of martial arts training. Who are these mysterious Soldiers of the White Lotus? Can they be trusted? What match are they for the super powered vampires Klaus is using?
The counter to LOD continues as Alucard, Dante, Michael and the others continue fighting. Klaus' forces are put on the run momentarily as our heroes gain momentum.
But the Master of Death is not through. In a stunning and chilling maneuver, Klaus broadcasts a live message to all of the world: New York must surrender or be destroyed by Klaus himself. Klaus then unleashes the deadliest of his minions who confront our heroes in super charged battles. Their enemies numerous and boasting frightening and unbelievable power, but our heroes have never proven more resilient. The siege continues, stay tuned!