Alright, here's the next chapter for you guys, hope everyone's still having a happy new year, and is enjoying themselves, I know that I most certainly am. The story picks up some speed this chapter, so please be sure to ask if there are any questions.
Broken Angel: Rising Demon
Chapter 15: The Foundation of a New World.
-Riley's Home, London, Britain. February 12th 1999-
"You got time to talk?" Riley inquired as she approached Daphne.
"I'm needed for a meeting in a few minutes, so it'll have to be fast." Daphne responded, as she finalized the finishing touches on her wardrobe.
Riley nodded and placed a hand on her shoulder, drawing Daphne into Kamui.
Daphne glanced around and let out a sigh before turning to face Riley.
"I'm guessing this isn't gonna be quick." Daphne noted.
"Sorry. This is something private, and I don't want the others knowing about it." Riley responded, earning a very curious look from Daphne. Riley rarely kept things from her mates, and even more so, she never put confidence in one of them, and not the others. This was very unlike her.
"There is a situation developing, that will cause unprecedented changes to our way of life. The Statute of Secrecy is set to collapse soon, and I believe I know what'll be the cause of it." Riley began.
"What do you mean, the Statute is about to fall?" Daphne asked, her face filling with concern.
"Magic is roaring to life, at an incredible rate. Magical creatures are growing stronger, and are breeding more rapidly. I visited a dragon reserve the other day, and the dragons there are growing in size, and power. My fighting the Ten-Tails triggered an awakening in magic. Now we're seeing the results. Magic is coming alive like it never has before. We don't have much time left until something triggers our reveal to the muggle world. Something is going to cause it, regardless of my situation. However… I've recently come into information that would point towards an event that will trigger our reveal at a very specific time." Riley explained, garnering Daphne's full attention as she did.
"And there's nothing that can be done to stop the reveal?" Daphne pressed.
"I can stop my situation. But… even if I do… it'll only buy us weeks, maybe months until the reveal. In truth I'm not even certain the statute will hold until my situation occurs. But if it does, it'll collapse then." Riley answered, earning an uneasy sigh from Daphne, as she began to pace back and forth before her demonic lover, processing this information as she did.
"Alright… what's your situation?" Daphne asked after several moments.
"I know who's causing these vampire attacks. It's an organization called Millennium. They're Nazi survivors from the Second World War. They've developed a vampire army, one thousand strong. And their goal is to initiate a total collapse of society, triggering an unending series of wars, that they can fight in, for the rest of time. They plan on attacking London." Riley responded, causing Daphne to stop and turn a startled gaze towards Riley.
"How do you know this?" Daphne asked.
"I'm good at keeping my mates safe. What can I say. Regardless… I know what's coming, and I have access to a way to feed them false information. I don't know where they're striking from, so I can't retaliate just yet. But… I'm presented with an issue." Riley replied, her eyes locked with Daphne's.
"What kind of issue?" Daphne inquired.
"If I stop them, then the unveiling of our existence to the muggle world gets left to chance. If I let them attack first, and kill them in the field, I get to control our unveiling. I get to decide how the world gets it's first look at us. Me. The Legion." Riley answered.
Daphne was silent for several long moments as she stared at Riley. A cascade of emotions danced across her face, before realization set in, and Daphne slowly turned her gaze away from Riley and began to pace again. She began chewing on her thumbnail as she did, a sure sign of anxiety building up within her. It didn't take a genius to understand why Riley was confiding in Daphne with this. Fleur, and Katie would most definitely be against allowing these foes to attack London. Luna was hit or miss, depending on what she knew about possible futures. Kaede probably wouldn't care either way. Gaia was also hit or miss, despite being a generally good person, she was still a shinobi, so it wasn't a certainty on how she'd stand on this issue. Daphne didn't know Yugito well enough to make a call on what she'd say, and Artoria would vehemently be against such an attack, as it would not only be dishonorable, but also deceptive.
Daphne was ambitious, much like Gaia was. But Daphne also had a darker mentality then many of her other mates. She understood how the game of politics worked, and understood that backstabbing and political maneuvering was a way to get ahead in the world. Riley wasn't wrong in that with this information, she could control their unveiling, an event unlike any the world had seen before.
If Riley was right, and it was going to happen anyway, was it better if they could direct the course of events, or was it better to leave it as a mystery?
After nearly a full minute of nothing but silent pacing, Daphne stopped and turned her gaze towards Riley, meeting her demonic mate's eyes in the process.
"You'd let them attack London?" Daphne asked.
"If I was certain I could direct the course of events, and ensure that come the battles end, we were safe, then yes." Riley answered.
"What safety measures do you have in place to ensure that millions of people aren't lost? I know you can resurrect the dead, but have you ever tried to resurrect someone who's had their blood drunk by a vampire? Blood is the medium of the soul. If a vampire drains a person of blood, theoretically, they would be devouring their souls as well. Can you revive people if that happens to them?" Daphne inquired.
"To be entirely honest… I don't know. I'll have to test it out the next time they attack." Riley answered with a shrug.
"Okay… how exactly do you intend for this to benefit us? You must have a reason for taking such a risk? You'd only allow someone to inflict such damage on us, if you thought the rewards were more than worth it." Daphne asked.
"If our enemies plan on causing unprecedented chaos. Then they'll take out British Parliament, and the Royal Family. If they succeed, all that'll be left to rule the country is the ministry, and the military. The military will be severely weakened by their assault, leaving only the ministry of magic to be able to step in and try to establish order, along with the Legion." Riley answered, Daphne's eyes widening at the implication of Riley's words.
"You want to let the enemy assassinate the muggle government, and allow the magical one to take over? You don't just plan for this to be an unveiling, you plan on us taking power." Daphne realized.
"Yes. When the unveiling occurs, we'll be the minority, but we'll hold the majority of power. What do you think will happen when the UN realizes the power that I hold? I can easily annihilate an entire planet. What do you think will happen when they see what Shinobi can do? Fear will wash through the ranks of the muggle population and we'll be the ones, placed under their boot. Best case scenario, we're watched like criminals. Worst case scenario, they attack the magical populations out of fear. If we rise up and take command of Britain, there wont be anyone that can hold us down. The rest of the world may try to move against us, but at least we'll have home. I lived in a shinobi village that was ruled by muggles. They did all they could to seize power that was never theirs. I refuse to be someone's puppet. If it comes to that, I'll kill them all. I don't need anyone other than you, my mates, my friends, my family. If we do things my way though… we have a chance to rise from the ashes of this attack, as the first magical nation of the modern era." Riley replied, her voice filling with passion as she did.
Daphne was silent as she processed what Riley was saying. She fully understood what her wife was getting at. The civilians in Konoha had tried to ebb as much power as they could away from the shinobi, and they served as a prime example of what happens when you give those who don't work for power, command over such vast quantities of it. Daphne herself was happy in that regard to have such excellent advisers, and people to help keep her grounded. She had command over the most powerful vampire on the planet, and if she really wanted to, she could use him to cause all manner of chaos. It took a tempered hand to command such power, and a healthy respect for it. The closest muggles had come to such a temperament was with their nuclear weapons, and even then, it was only mutually assured destruction that kept them in check. If they had ways of ensuring that they could destroy their enemies without being destroyed in turn, they would do so without hesitation. Magicals commanded such power. S-Ranked individuals, could annihilate entire cities, just like nuclear weapons could.
When the unveiling occurred, Daphne suspected a new arms race would begin. Muggles would do whatever they could to militarize or control the magic at their disposal. Britain's muggle government was no different.
The Wizengamot had a healthy respect for Riley, and she had fostered good relationships with many of the members there, but how would those ties fare when the Statute was broken? How much power would the Ministry have after such a thing occurred? It was possible that British Parliament would try and seize command of magical society, triggering hostilities in the old pureblood lines, who hated being told they needed to change by progressive muggleborns. How well would they fare, when it was the state that demanded such things?
In fact, there existed a strong possibility that this could trigger a civil war, not just in Britain but everywhere. Wars between magicals, who wanted their independence, and muggles who thought they could control them.
That line of thought though, led to the troubling question, what to do?
If she allowed Riley to go forward with her plans, then the muggle government would be destroyed, leaving only the magical one to rule. They would command the muggles of the country as the only source of power and stability. That may also trigger some form of conflict. Then again… if part of the unveiling involved the Legion, or Hellsing, or the Ministry being the ones to stop Millennium, to save the innocent people, and secure victory for them, that may win people over, and give them an opening to start on a high note.
Ten steps back, to leap forward a dozen yards. that's what Riley's plan was.
"This would be a risky endeavor. But you wouldn't suggest something like this unless you were sure. So… what do you plan on doing if you succeed? Who is going to be running things? The Ministry? The Legion? …You?" Daphne asked, pinning Riley with a focused gaze.
Riley let out a soft laugh at that. "I've never really cared much for ruling. I'll lead, if people want to follow, but I'm not interested in babysitting. I'm a warrior. I'm a fighter. I'm good at politics, and I'm good at playing the game, but a desk was never where I've wanted to find myself. It's not where I want to be."
"And yet there are so many people that would follow you into hell Riley. Myself included. You're a natural born leader, whether you wanted to be in charge or not." Daphne responded earning a soft smile and a nod of recognition towards the sentiment. "So… if not you, than who?"
"I was thinking a change of pace was needed. Not the ministry, or the Legion. In my mind there's only one person fit for the job. It wont be easy. And I know not everyone will fall in line immediately. To me, only one person can handle this kind of task, because she's done it before." Riley answered, causing Daphne's eyes to go wide, as she realized just who Riley was suggesting.
"You intend to return Artoria to the throne?" Daphne asked, making sure she was understanding her wife correctly.
"Who better?" Riley responded with a smile and a shrug.
"The return of King Arthur. To unite the land in a time of chaos..." Daphne mused as she turned her gaze away from Riley, and stared off while pondering the idea. After a few moments, a smirk touched at her lips and she turned her gaze back to Riley.
"You're sure about this?" Daphne asked.
"She'd have Hashirama, and Madara there to advise her. She'd have me to help enforce her rule. She's already seen as a leader by the Legion, Itachi trusts her wisdom and respects her command. Voldemort and the Dark faction do as well. She holds a position of power in the Ministry as the last of the Pendragon line and revealing her true identity to them wont be difficult to prove. Not with my support, the support of Lucius, and Excalibur in her possession." Riley answered earning a thoughtful look from Daphne as she continued to ponder the possibilities of this path.
"The way I see it Daph, we only have two choices. We either leave Britain and build our own home somewhere new. Or we take over. Otherwise, it'll be the Leaf all over again, just on a global scale. And the end will be the same too." Riley continued.
"I know. If the muggles try and enforce their will upon us, it'll lead to war. The muggles will have the advantage until people like you get involved. The death tolls will be catastrophic." Daphne stated, envisioning it all in her head.
"Unless we take over. Unless we force them to acknowledge our place in the world. If we hold Britain, then we will control our own fates, and we'll be justified if the rest of the world tries anything. We wont be the minority. We'll be our own sovereign nation." Riley said, turning her gaze out over the expanse of Kamui.
"I don't like it. It's risky, and it invites chaos and bloodshed upon our people. But I can't help but think you're right. The civilians in the Elemental Nations are proof that humans will do anything to control power, even if it's power that they have no earthly right to command. They'd seek to wield us like puppets, and they'd turn you into a bargaining chip. The government wouldn't stand with us. They'd use us. Maybe not right away. Maybe not even in the stretch of a generation. But one day, we'd be placed under their thumbs. People without magic, would command those with it. We'd be, at best, their pawns, and at worst, their slaves." Daphne concluded, earning a nod of agreement from Riley.
"That's exactly what I think too." Riley stated.
"Alright… you wanted to talk to me about this, I understand why. And I get why you're not talking to the other about it. Who else are you going to bring into this?" Daphne asked.
"No one. Just me and you. I'll set everything up. I'll put the pieces into place." Riley answered.
"What do you want me to do?" Daphne inquired.
"Keep pushing forward. Go on as if this conversation never happened. When the time is right, I know you'll know what to do." Riley answered, earning a slow nod from Daphne.
As Riley moved to send Daphne back to the real world, it slowly dawned on her that this wasn't just about Riley laying out her fears for what she thought was going to happen. She was also asking permission. And in a way, Daphne had given it.
-London, England. February 17th 1999-
Riley stood atop the roof of a building, her eyes glued on the sky. A few moments earlier she had felt two powerful presences, enter into her passive sensory area, which covered all of the British Isles, and parts of Europe. Something was out there, and getting closer, and she recognized what it was.
Her old friends from Fairport. The two men in green and black bodysuits.
With a sigh, Riley activated her Byakugan and rose up into the sky. She shrouded herself in her dementor cloak, and obscured her face as she came to rest, high in the lower atmosphere.
Once she'd found a place she was comfortable with, somewhere above the English channel, she let her powers flow freely, triggering the rapid buildup of a powerful thunderstorm.
Riley floated quietly in the darkness of the storm, which quickly began producing lightning, as she waited for the two that were more then likely looking for her.
Just as she suspected, not long after the storm had been generated, two green dots could be seen flying through the storm, headed for her location.
They soon closed in on her, coming to halt a dozen meters or so, in front of her.
"What the hell do you want?" Riley demanded from beneath her shroud, the roaring of the winds doing nothing to hinder her voice from reaching them.
"We're not here to fight. We just wanna talk." Hal called out to her, having a hard time speaking up over the torrential winds within the storm, or the chaotic lightning storm the raged around them.
"I don't like being searched for. Speak you mind, and pray that I find your words of worth." Riley responded, holding up a hand, causing the storm to quiet down a great deal, and the winds to slow, allowing them to speak.
The two men shared a glance with one another, before slowly floating towards her. They stopped when they were about twelve feet away.
"We work for an organization known as the Green Lantern Corp. Ours bosses asked us to speak with you, to ask you about your motives for being here." Hal stated after a tense moment of silence.
"I live here. On this planet. What more motives could you need?" Riley responded.
"We know what you are. We know you're not from around here." John said to her.
"Oh really? Than say it. Say what I am." Riley demanded, causing the two to share another glance. She was curious to know if these two could break past the Fidelus, and say that she was an archdemon.
"You're… Prime Evil Earth." Hal stated after a moment of silence.
Riley stared at them blankly, her head slowly tilting. Seconds ticked by as both men tensed, an unnerving chuckle filled the air and grew in intensity.
Riley broke out into full blown laughter, at the thought. Prime Evil. A designation given to the dark entity that was meant to tear a planet out of it's space in reality and take it into the dark realms with it. A demonic ruler meant to conquer worlds.
Riley found it amusing that they would consider such a thing. If they knew exactly what she was, if they knew she was an archdemon, they would know that she was more inclined to destroy the earth, than to conquer it. Greater Fiends, Greater Devils, and their Arch-level equivalents, those were the conquerors. Demons didn't have the capacity for conquest, only destruction. Riley was unique, but they didn't know that. If they knew the truth, then they would never consider her a Prime Evil.
Interestingly enough, Riley actually knew which creature was the true Prime Evil Earth. The Archdevil that had commanded the devilish army during the Fourth Great Ninja War. The one Mito and Obito aligned themselves with. If Luna's and Kane's vision of the future was accurate and the events of the Day of Wrath were as well, than that would mean that, that devil was the true Prime Evil Earth, not Riley.
"What's so funny?" Hal demanded, narrowing his eyes at her.
"That you think I'm Prime Evil Earth. Look, I'm flattered and all, but I just live here. I don't care about this world as a whole, nor do I have any desire to take it into the dark realms. I prefer being on this side of that great divide. So you can tell your bosses they don't need to worry. I'm not here for the Earth, or humanity." Riley responded, continuing to chuckle to herself as she did.
Both men shared an uncertain look with one another, more then likely not quite believing her.
"Look guys, if you're really interested in stopping Prime Evil Earth, I think I know who it is. Look into a special S like symbol, that's tied to the Archdevil who's got his eyes locked onto the Earth. If your organization wants to fight him and stop him, by all means, feel free. If you win, that's one less headache for me to deal with." Riley responded, drawing the symbol in the air with Flagrate.
Both men shared another glance with one another before refocusing their attention on her.
"If you're not here for the Earth, what are you here for?" John asked.
"I'm here for me. Found some beautiful people to settle down and start a life with. Nothing more, nothing less. If anything, I plan on one day taking them away from this world to live in a paradise of my own making, so as I said, the Earth itself, and the rest of humanity is of little concern to me. So long as they stay out of my way, and keep from hurting those I care for, I wont destroy them, and one day, they'll be rid of me." Riley responded, shrugging towards the end, like it was the simplest thing in the world.
"Settle down? Your kind doesn't 'settle down'! You're conquerors and destroyers. Monsters, through and through. Of all the evil in the universe, there is none greater than your kind." John said to her, his voice filled with disbelief.
"I'm unique. What can I say. I do what I want, and I defy convention. Let's put it this way, you know the phrase, 'happy wife, happy life'? Well, it applies to me as well. I make my loved ones happy, and they make me happy. All I have to do is resist my natural urge to cleanse this world of all life, and slaughter everyone that even so much as gets on my nerves. Believe me, it's not easy. But I prefer a life of love, and happiness, to resentment, fear, and suffering. From my point of view, there are three categories of people in this universe. There's mine. My enemies, and the nobodies. The human race? They're nobodies. Not my friends, not my enemies. You and yours, you're nobodies, I don't know you, I don't care about you. You're nothing. I kill my enemies, and my loved ones know that. So long as people don't make themselves my enemies, I wont go out of my way to kill them. And just in case you're wondering, I fill my need for bloodlust by slaughtering the wretches of this world. Murderers, rapists, child molesters, people who talk in the theater. I live my own life, and I am more then what I am. Like I said during our last meeting, you stay out of my way, you let me live my life, and I wont hurt you. You want other people to be safe from me? Teach them to do the same. That's it. Any other questions boys?" Riley explained to the two, folding her arms over her chest as she did.
The two again shared a glance with one another.
"Who are you?" Hal asked.
Riley was silent for a moment as she thought of an answer. She pondered the idea of a name for a few seconds before settling on something simple, and tied to what they already knew about her
"My true name is unimportant to you. If you need to call me something, call me Venator." Riley responded.
"Venator?" John parroted back, sharing a glance with Hal.
"It means hunter in Latin. Stay out of my way boys. And don't come looking for me again. I don't like being looked for." Riley said to the two, before suddenly vanishing in a burst of speed, disappearing into the clouds, and then using the Hiraishin to flash away.
-Oa, February 18th 1999-
"What do you think this all means?" Hal asked of the guardians. He and John had just finished delivering their report to the Guardians, and had now stood by for nearly ten minutes while they discussed the two's findings.
"A creature such as this one, yet its more interested in a family life? Such a thing is unheard of." One of the Guardians responded.
"Perhaps not so. I believe when she referenced the human phrase 'happy wife, happy life' she was indeed referring to someone close to her. A lover more then likely. In the past, these creatures have altered their normal routines, in favor of more dynamic pursuits. Perhaps what this creature gets from it's mate, means far more to it then conquering the planet." Another offered aloud.
"I do not like this. The insinuation here, is that a powerful dark creature, has taken an interest in a human of all things, and has claimed it as it's mate. It refrains from gruesome slaughter, so long as it's mate continues to provide what it desires. That is a lot of burden to place onto something as short lived as a human being." One of the Guardians noted.
"Yet we have seen humans carry such burdens before. What concerns me isn't this mysterious human's longevity, but more so their temperament. This creature destroyed an entire city in a blind fury, due to it's offspring being harmed. Meaning that despite how much control it seems to have over it's own rage. It will slip into violence at a moments notice. Such is unspeakable power, now wielded by a human being, who we have no way of knowing, what could be going on in their minds, and we have no way of easily identifying. This one human holds the key to the world's destruction. The insinuation based on the saying, would identify this human as a woman. All it would take is for this woman to have one lapse in judgment, one bad day, and unleash catastrophe upon the Earth." Ganthet stated.
"What do you want us to do?" John asked.
"And what about this other threat, the Archdevil with the S symbol? What are we gonna do about him?" Hal inquired as well.
"Return to your sectors and focus on your duties for now. We will investigate this claim and prepare a suitable course of action. I would advise that you prepare yourselves though. If there is any validity to this beings warning, then we face an Archdevil. Such is a foe we have rarely had the misfortune to deal with. Be ready for when we summon you again." Ganthet ordered, earning nods from the two men, who quickly turned to depart, leaving the Guardians in silence as they pondered these new revelations, and what they could mean for the Green Lantern Corp, and the universe at large.
-Riley's Home, England. February 19th 1999-
Fleur let out a pleasured sigh as she pulled Riley into an embrace. The two had been joined at the hip for nearly an hour now.
Fleur was curious about what was going on with Riley today. All day today, Riley had spent the day with Fleur, hell Riley even followed her to work, and paid the bank manager a serious bride to let Riley hang out while Fleur worked. It was a bit odd, having Riley follow her around, and immediately upon completion of her day's work, Riley rushed her out the door and took her to Paris where the two spent the latter half of the evening enjoying a wonderful dinner, and then Riley took her to walk the streets, enjoying the cool winter night, and fresh snowfall.
Truly it was as romantic a night as Fleur had ever experienced, and now the two found themselves in a side room, away from the rest of the house, away from the rest of Riley's mates, where they made love. It was now close to midnight, and Fleur couldn't help but wonder what had gotten into Riley, that made her so romantic all of sudden, and why was it directed solely at Fleur today?
Riley rarely directed her full attention towards one of her mates, usually only doing so on birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions, but for the life of her, Fleur couldn't figure out what made today so special.
Even the sex itself, was far more passionate and loving then usual. Riley was quite obviously in a much more sensual mood, and not once did Fleur note the change in her mate's eyes, when she would become highly aroused. Riley was in full control over herself, and was up to something. Fleur just didn't know what it was. A part of her did wonder, if it might have something to do with Daphne's recent stint at the Hellsing Manor. For the past few days, Daphne had been spending far more time there, then usual, which was the only thing that stood out as an interesting occurrence these past few days.
"What's on your mind, my love?" Fleur inquired, finally deciding to just ask.
"Giving you a night to remember." Riley responded, holding her tightly in a powerful, yet comfortable embrace.
"Why?" Fleur asked.
"Do I need a reason?" Riley asked in response.
"No. But you have one." Fleur noted with a smile, as she rested her chin on Riley's shoulder and ran her hands gently through Riley's long dark hair.
"What if I told you I was buttering you up, so that when I tell you what I want, you're more likely to say yes." Riley responded, earning a giggle from Fleur.
"Well we have gone all ze way, we're engaged, I already live wiz you. What more could you need to ask of me?" Fleur inquired, smiling as she did.
"We're engaged… so… are you ready to start a family yet?" Riley asked, causing Fleur to stop, her whole body tensing as she finally understood the reason for the day's events.
"You want us to have a baby Riley?" Fleur asked, pulling away, and locking eyes with her demonic lover. The loving smile on her face, and the blooming of her allure, was more than enough body language to reveal how the Veela felt about such an offer. Still Riley answered.
"I do. I know you wanted to wait until we were married, but I figured, with it being in June even if you got pregnant now, the baby wouldn't be here by then. Plus we'd get to see if this would put a stop to my lustful episodes. Keep things safer for Artoria and Yugito too. I know I'm ready. I'm just waiting for the moment you say yes." Riley explained to her, earning a nod from Fleur as she turned thoughtful. It was just like Riley to always be thinking. Rationally, it was a good way to go about it, because then they'd know if Riley's episodes would stop, which would reduce the risk to everyone else, including the two women Riley was busy courting, who, as far as Fleur knew, were nowhere near experienced enough to endure Riley's monthly lustful outbursts.
"Ze pitter-patter of little feet. Ze playful giggling. Ze crying. Ze whining. Ze constant need for attention. Are you ready for zat?" Fleur inquired.
"So long as I'm with you, I'm ready for anything." Riley responded.
"You know… I have dreamed about zis since I first learned zat you were my mate. Ze day we would be married. Ze day we would have children. I have always wanted zese zings from you, Riley. Just zinking about it, fills my stomach with butterflies. Marriage, children, our life togezer. You and me, and all of my sisters… I cannot imagine a better life." Fleur offered, earning a loving smile from Riley, in response to her words. The two shared a passionate kiss before Fleur continued to speak.
"You know, so often we never get ze chance for everyzing to go as planned. I love zat I get to prepare all ze aspects of my future wiz you. Zat we can do zings in ze order zat we want. But, if I am being honest… I am excited at ze prospect of having a family wiz you, Riley. And I cannot wait to start it. Today has been so wonderful, and we will soon be married. If you want to start our family now, zen I will not have to wait as long to meet our child." Fleur responded, earning a beaming smile from Riley.
"So… how do we wanna do this? Delicate and passionate, making it a night to remember, or dirty, rough, pig sex, that if ever brought up, will leave us both blushing?" Riley inquired, earning a giggle from Fleur as she leaned in to kiss her demonic mate.
"Why don't we just see where zis goes?" Fleur suggested, during a moment of separation.
"Sounds good to me, my love." Riley responded, as they returned to kissing.
Deep within Riley's body, Kurama roused from his slumber, his gaze turned towards the shadow of Riley's titanic soul, and the equally massive soul of her demonic child, in The Darkness.
"And so it begins..." Kurama hummed.
"The Age of Man has ended. Her brood shall swallow the Earth." The Darkness responded, with a demonic growl of glee.
"You may not be Prime Evil Earth, Riley. But that doesn't mean one of your children wont be. Even if we beat this Archdevil. Chances are very good, one of your children will take it's place." Kurama thought to himself as he turned his gaze away from Riley's soul and out across the shadow bathed landscape of her inner mind.
"If the world must fall, father, than let it be into the hands of Riley's children. They are a far better fate than this planet could have hoped for. Than again… who knows… maybe something will change her mind, and Riley will take this world as her own? I guess we'll just have to see." Kurama finished his musing with a silent prayer, for his father's sake, before returning to his slumber.
-Riley's Home, London. February 20th 1999-
"Well look who's finally made it back." Katie noted with a chuckle as Fleur slunk into the room, at around eight in the morning.
Most of Riley's mates were busy getting ready for their day's work, and had most definitely noted the absence of the Veela the night prior. While Riley had kept her mate's occupied with her clones, they all knew she wasn't really there, and was most likely with Fleur.
Katie's statement drew the attention of the other women, with Luna still laying in bed, Daphne busy getting dressed, and Kaede in the bathroom, drowsily staring at herself in the mirror. All three of them turned from their respective tasks, and took note of the bashful looking Fleur standing quite awkwardly near the entrance of the room.
"So… spill the beans, what'd you get up to last night, princess?" Katie inquired with a smile, crossing the room to stand before her fellow mate. Riley so rarely spent the night alone with one of her mates in particular that it usually sparked interest in the rest when she did. Of course this had happened enough that most of them had memorized various birthdays and even special anniversaries that Riley liked to celebrate, such as first meeting, first date, first proclamation of love, or even on days that were harder for them, such as the anniversary of both Katie's and Luna's mothers' deaths. So when Riley broke pattern, it usually led to some speculation and curiosity.
Fleur blushed and smiled as she thought of the prior night. Though it truth, it didn't feel like a last night sort of thing, as she had barely slept at all, spending most the night, having all sorts of fun times with Riley, spanning the spectrum, from rough and intense sex, to passionate love-making, to long hours of cuddling and talking about their future together. It was honestly the most memorable night Fleur could remember when it came to her soul mate, and she would most definitely be riding high off that blissful night for many weeks to follow.
Quickly she crossed the room, stepping passed Katie and sitting on the edge of the bed, her eyes locked onto the floor.
Her actions earned even greater curiosity from her fellow mates, as they all gathered around, eager to hear what had transpired, and why the normally composed, and elegant Veela was so bashful and grinning like a love-struck fool.
"Riley and I… we decided to start a family." Fleur stated after several long seconds of silence. Slowly she lifted her gaze to her surrounding mates, and found each one of them surprised by her proclamation.
"So you two were…?" Daphne began.
Fleur quickly nodded, and blushed brightly as the memories came flooding in with incredible clarity.
"And now you're…?" Katie continued, her face lighting up with excitement.
"I zink so." Fleur responded, as tears started to well up in her eyes.
Katie let out a squeal of joy and flew into Fleur's arms, the two embracing as Fleur let out a joyful laugh.
"Wow…" Daphne muttered, smiling and taking a seat next to Fleur. Luna was quiet, as she crawled across the bed hugged Fleur from behind, happy for her fellow mate, and for Riley.
Kaede watched the rest of them curiously, tilting her head slightly. "So you're pregnant now?" She asked after several seconds passed by.
"I do not know for certain. I wont for a little while. But I zink so. I… felt when it happened. It was the most wonderful feeling I have ever felt..." Fleur responded, raising her gaze to meet with Kaede's.
"What'd it feel like, I mean… did you guys do it the normal way, or what?" Katie asked, pulling away and resting on her haunches, placing her hands on Fleur's knees and staring up at her, beaming.
"We did a lot. Normal Riley in zat sense. But… when it happened… I felt her magic flow into me. Almost like it was filling me up. For a moment… it felt like we were one. I cannot explain it better zen zat. Riley said it was done. Zat it would be quicker zen a normal pregnancy by a few months. It will still be a few weeks before I know for certain but… I do not zink zis is somezing she would mess up." Fleur responded.
"Wow! Congratulations!" Katie said with a happy smile, earning one in reply from Fleur.
Kaede watched as Katie stood back up and pulled Fleur into an embrace, cradling Fleur's head to her chest, and resting her chin atop it. The two held each other, while the rest of the ladies stared on at them, each with their own whirlwind of thought filling their minds.
"So you've finally decided to start a family, Riley. I'm happy for you. There will be a lot of pain and suffering going forward, but let these moments of happiness be enough to keep you grounded, and keep you sane." Luna thought to herself.
"The world finds itself in a precarious place. I hope you know what you're getting into Riley. With the fall of the statute, any number of things could go wrong." Daphne quietly pondered. She wore a happy smile, but on the inside she was still focused on the major happenings of the world, outside of Riley's harem. The introduction of a child did little to alter those events, the only thing it did change, was how Riley might react to future events. She was going to be a true parent now. With her own baby to raise, how would she handle the changes that were coming?
"Riley and Fleur are going to have a baby. Does that mean that Riley is ready for children? Does she want them with me? Shouldn't dwell on it. Don't focus on it. Be happy. Be happy for them." Kaede told herself, doing her best to not be jealous about Riley starting a family with one of her other mates.
Despite not thinking much of herself in terms of her motherly abilities, Kaede did want children with Riley. She was not at all confident about the endeavor but she did want them. Some nights she even dreamed about having children with Riley. So to know that Riley was ready, and was starting a family with Fleur, it left Kaede feeling a little jealous. But she knew she shouldn't be, and more than that, she was afraid of being jealous around Riley's mates. Jealousy had ruined her life already. This was her second chance, and she wasn't going to let jealousy ruin it again. She just kept telling herself to be happy for them. Be happy, and the day will come. Maybe sooner than she expected.
Almost as if on cue with her thoughts, Kaede felt arms wrap around her, one sliding around her stomach, the other under her arm and across her chest.
She felt the familiar bust of her demonic lover press against her back, as Riley rested her head on Kaede's shoulder. Kaede let out a contend sigh as she melted into Riley's embrace with a smile.
"See… no reason to be jealous. She wont forget you." Kaede thought to herself with a gentle smile.
"So… how long until you and I start making babies?" Riley whispered into her ear, playfully nibbling on it, as she did. Being in contact with her half-demon mate, and able to read her mind, Riley knew she had to ensure that Kaede's natural jealousy didn't rear it's ugly head. She didn't want any of her mates to feel like they needed to be jealous of each other. Anything she was willing to give to one, she would give to the others, if given the time.
Kaede blushed at that, not expecting the question.
"Well I… Maybe someday…" Kaede mumbled out, trying not to giggle as Riley began kissing at her neck.
Kaede's actions drew the attention of the rest of the women.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't miss baby-maker herself. You just send in Fleur first to get the hard part out of the way, and then sneak in, pretending like we wouldn't notice?" Katie inquired, rising to her feet and facing Riley.
"Well if Kaede wasn't so ticklish, it would have worked." Riley replied with a smirk, resting her chin on Kaede's shoulder and swaying back and forth, while holding her.
"So Fleur's pregnant?" Daphne inquired.
"Yep. Should be. We'll know for certain in a few days." Riley responded.
"Well congratulations." Daphne said, earning a smirk from Riley.
"Yeah, congrats." Katie offered.
"Congrats." Luna offered as well, mimicking Riley's actions with Kaede, on Fleur.
"Thanks ladies. Some time soon I need to have a sit down with each of you so we can discuss stuff like this. I wanna know your thoughts on kids, marriage, and the like. I know that I definitely want to marry all of you, and that I definitely want at least one kid with each of my ladies. Preferably, I'd like to be married before any babies show up, but as soon as we exchange 'I do's' I don't care if we pop out a baby the very next day." Riley offered to the group, pulling away from Kaede and taking up position next to her. Riley kept an arm draped over Kaede's shoulder and pulled her into her side where the Diclonius accepted the affectionate gesture and melded into position next to Riley.
She earned blushes or bashful looks from her mates, which caused Riley's smile to grow.
A few moments of silence passed before finally, Katie turned her attention back towards Fleur.
"So… any thoughts on a name yet?" Katie inquired, with just the right amount of cheek, earning a giggle from Fleur.
"No. Not yet. We still need to see if I am actually pregnant or not. So for not it is just waiting." Fleur responded, earning a nod from Katie.
"Well, the moment you know for sure, we need to celebrate." Katie suggested, earning a nod of agreement from Luna.
"Well I look forward to it." Fleur replied, her eyes flitting to meet with Riley's.
Riley's gaze was filled with happiness and serenity. Being with her mates, always had a way of calming her down, and letting her be at peace.
The world was changing, but that didn't mean that Riley was gonna stop living. Whether the statute fell or not, she would continue on with her beloved family, and live the life she was meant to live.
-Delacour Estate, Southern France. March 15th 1999-
"What do you think Fleur is so excited about?" Gabrielle inquired, speaking with Riley in her native tongue.
"Well I'm sure we'll find out quite soon." Riley responded, dusting off her french, and adding a smirk. Gabrielle narrowed her eyes at Riley, knowing full well that her soon-to-be sister-in-law, knew the truth.
The two were sat on a couch in one of the sitting rooms within the luxurious Delacour estate. Across from the two sat Jean Delacour, whom had a sneaking suspicion he knew why Fleur wanted to talk with them, and why she was currently off somewhere private with her mother.
"How have the two of you been? Fleur is often so busy planning the wedding, that she has had little time to talk about other matters." Jean inquired.
"We've been good, great really. Lot's of talk about where we'll go on our honeymoon, and what we'll do once we're married. Aside from that though, everything's sort of business as usual." Riley responded.
"Any thoughts on which of your families she'll be marrying into? I understand that your first wife married into Slytherin house." Jean inquired.
"You're right. I've put a lot of thought into that, considering what would be best for her, and after a while I decided that given she was my first love, and with how long we've been together, I decided I wanted her to marry into the Uchiwa clan." Riley responded, earning a nod of acceptance from Jean and smile from Gabrielle.
"Aww, did she get all excited when you told her you wanted her to join your ancestral family?" Gabrielle asked with a smirk.
"Oh yes. Blushed and giggled, and I think she got a bit teary eyed." Riley replied earning a chuckle from father and daughter.
Right about then, Riley felt Fleur's excitement shoot through the roof from across their bond. She immediately heard the clattering of footsteps as her beloved mate raced down to find her.
"I'm guessing that means we're expecting." Riley hummed to herself with a smirk, rising to her feet, right as the doors to the room opened and Fleur rushed in, flying into Riley's arms where they met with a passionate kiss.
Both Jean and Gabrielle shared a look with one another, as a smiling Apolline Delacour followed her into the room.
"So… it worked?" Riley inquired, holding Fleur in her arms.
Fleur nodded, teary-eyed and grinning.
"Good. You want to tell them?" Riley inquired, earning another nod from Fleur as Riley released her from their embrace.
"Papa, Gabby… I'm pregnant." Fleur offered to the two of them.
Gabrielle was quickly on her feet and embraced her sister. "Congratulations! I am so happy for you!"
She was followed by her father whom also shared a hug with his eldest daughter. "That is wonderful news, my dear. You are going to make an excellent mother."
"Thank you papa, Gabby. Thank you both so much, for everything." Fleur whispered, now openly crying.
Riley watched the exchange with a smile, happy to be able to experience this moment, and happy to have such wonderful people in her life.
"Now you get to go and tell your family about this. Wonder who's gonna cry more, Kushina, Madara, Sirius, or Hashirama?" Kurama hummed to himself, earning a chuckle from the demoness.
Riley was quickly pulled into conversation by the Delacours as they asked about baby names, plans going forward, and the like. It was be an eventful day, one quickly repeated, when the two returned to Britain and let the rest of the family know.
-Leaky Cauldron, London, England. March 16th 1999-
"Cheers!" Came the chorus from Riley's friends. The clattering the mugs sounded throughout the tavern, as they enjoyed a night of merriment and revelry.
"So… any thoughts on names yet?" Draco inquired, to Riley.
"Well I let Fleur decide. She thinks it'll be a girl. But she settled on names she liked either way. Gabriel if it's a boy, and Lucille if it's a girl." Riley responded, earning a nod from her friend.
Whisper broke out from those around her, mulling over the names, some of Riley's gal pals were clustered around Fleur, plying her with questions.
"Any thoughts on naming a godfather, or a godmother?" Theo asked.
"Yeah actually, since Fleur got to name the child, I got to decide on the godparents. I asked Uncle Remus if he'd be the Godfather, since he helped raise me. As for the godmother, I haven't decided yet." Riley answered.
"Nervous at all?" Crabbe asked.
"Nah. If I can keep you lot in line, then a baby should be no issue." Riley replied, earning a playful chorus of jeers from her friends, as laughter broke out amongst them.
"Every day it seems to we get further and further away from when we kids. Can you guys believe all the crap we got into back at Hogwarts." Theo noted, earning a many nods, or bewildered looks from the rest of the gang.
"I still have nightmares about second year. That just straight-up sucked." Tracey noted, earning a multitude of sighs, especially from Hermione, and Ginny.
"We've come a long way guys. And it's been a helluva ride." Riley began, rising to her feet and drawing everyone's attention to her.
Riley's eyes flitted across the room, taking in the many faces of her longtime friends.
"I'd like to make a toast. To the bonds that'll never be broken, and to adventures we'll never forget." Riley proclaimed, garnering a chorus of cheers from the room as everyone raised their mugs.
Smiles and cheers echoed throughout the room, as Riley met the gaze of each one of her friends, dedicating this moment to memory. The optimist within her hoped that there would be many nights like this to come. The pragmatist though, knew that with the coming storm, such moments of levity would become harder and harder to come by.
For now, they would enjoy themselves, because in the days to come, the world would change, and Riley knew that she was going to end up right in the middle of it all.
-Later that night, Riley's Home, London, England-
"A Great-Great Grandfather. You're getting old brother." Tobirama noted.
"Hey that would make you a Great-Great-Granduncle." Hashirama responded, earning a thoughtful look from his younger brother.
"Yep. You old farts are gonna be around long enough to add several more 'greats' onto those titles, knowing my genes." Riley mused, earning a snort of amusement from Tobirama, and a chuckle from Hashirama.
Riley found herself, currently surrounded by her family members, many of her children, her grandparents, uncles, her mother, godfather, her sister, Remus, Shisui, Kakashi, and Artoria. Not long after her toast, Riley had left the Leaky Cauldron to return home and enjoy a second celebration here, leaving Fleur to bask in the spotlight, alongside the rest of her fellow mates. By now, they had told everyone that Fleur was pregnant, meaning it wouldn't be long before Riley read about it in the papers.
She was also expecting to receive a visit from Gaia in the not too distant future, and she'd was more then likely going to be talking about it with Yugito during their next date.
"Well if you end up with Yugito, and Artoria, and you have a child with each other them, that would be eight kids." Kushina noted, her words drew a blush from Artoria, luckily though, no one seemed to notice how red her face got, well no one except Riley whom immediately threw a lustful smirk in her direction, furthering Artoria's embarrassment.
"Wow… that's quite the brood." Madara hummed, earning a nod of agreement from Kaguya.
"Any plans for you to mother any children, Riley?" Remus inquired.
"Oh definitely. I give them one baby each, they give me one baby each, sounds fair." Riley responded, earning thoughtful, surprised, or downright dumbstruck looks from those around her. Also Artoria's face reddened even further at the thought of that.
"Sixteen kids. Wow pup." Sirius whistled.
"That's eight times being pregnant..." Kushina muttered, dumbstruck.
"Hey it's not the same for me. I could turn my own womb into it's own collapsed space, meaning I could be pregnant right now, and none of you would notice it." Riley responded, earning many curious and pointed looks from her family, which caused her to giggle.
"You're not pregnant too, are you?" Kushina asked.
"No, not yet. Maybe later though. Sometime in the not too distant future." Riley replied, earning a sigh of relief from Kushina, who wasn't quite sure if she was ready for that, just yet.
Chats continued well into the night, as the family discussed the newest addition as well as what the future would hold.
-Northern England, April 1st 1999-
Shot's rang out as two men raced away from a burning theater.
One turned and tried to fire back only for a bullet to pass straight through his kneecap sending him screaming to the ground.
The other kept running but came to a halt when he felt a sheering pain tear into his stomach. His eyes went wide as a shadow covered his gaze, and demonic chuckling filled his ears.
"You've been a very bad boys. Running around, eating innocent people. Now I have to punish you." The No-Life King chuckled with a toothy grin.
Before his captured target could utter a response Alucard gnashed his teeth and tore into his prey's throat, drinking in his blood and memories.
Once through he tossed the body aside and approached the downed vampire who was trying to crawl into a back alley.
"Oh… now where are you scurrying off to? Not so brave when your target fights back, are you?" Alucard chuckled darkly, firing a shot that took off the downed vamp's hand.
His scream tore through the air, as Alucard stepped over him, placing his boot onto the vampire's back.
The last thing the murdering vampire saw was Daphne and Walter stepping out of the shadows of the alley he had just tried to escape into, both staring down at him with cold, uncaring gazes.
A gunshot tore through the air, and the downed vampire collapsed, lifeless.
"Did you learn anything?" Daphne inquired to her servant.
"No. Nothing of use, my master. These little pups were changed much the same as the others, former criminals, caught by faceless entities, and turned against their will. Starved for blood, and then unleashed to cause mayhem and chaos." Alucard noted with a dark chuckle.
"These attacks are becoming more frequent, and the body count is rising." Walter noted, glancing towards the flaming theater building.
"Yes. Our enemy is growing far bolder with each attack. It's only a matter of time before one of these attacks occurs on a much larger scale. A whole village or town. We need answers, and quickly." Daphne noted, turning and heading off, followed closely by her two subordinates. As they moved away, aurors began to arrive to clean up the mess and deal with any witnesses.
"Riley was right. This is getting worse and worse. If this keeps up, someone is going to let it slip that vampires are real. And that is going to lead to questions, difficult ones." Daphne thought to herself as she came to a halt and motioned for her subordinates to place their hands on her shoulder. Once they did, she Apparated the three of them away, back to the Hellsing Manor.
-Northern Ireland. April 16th 1999-
Daphne and Walter stood at the outskirts of a small town, both were overlooking the town, taking in the quiet, and overwhelming feeling of dread that emanated from it.
"Another attack. This is getting out of hand." Walter noted.
"Yes. I have a feeling something big is coming. These attacks appear to be random, but they are growing in intensity. I don't like it. I really don't like it." Daphne responded, her eyes hard, and filled with focus and contempt.
Millennium. The name of the organization that was causing this. She was beginning to get impatient with them. She knew they intended to launch a major attack, Riley had said as much. So what were they waiting for? What were they hoping to gain from these skirmishes? Daphne didn't know, but she was getting fed up with it. The echoes of gunfire suddenly filled the air, and Daphne let out a huff, turning and striding away from town. She was beginning to recognize the distant echo of Alucard's special handgun. She knew he had dealt with, or was so to finish dealing with those responsible.
Another attack dealt with, with more on the way. This was a problem, and it was getting worse by the moment.
-Petref Cysgodian Hud, Britain. April 24th 1999-
"Congratulations." Riley offered to Itachi, stepping up next to him as he overlooked Sasuke and an exhausted Karin, fussing over their newborn daughter.
"Good to see you've made it." Itachi noted.
"Sorry, was in the middle of training when I heard that Karin had gone into labor. She wasn't due for another week." Riley responded.
"Yes, it was quite surprising, but Lord Hashirama says that she's doing well, and the baby is perfectly healthy." Itachi offered.
"Happy to hear. So… how's it feel to be an uncle?" Riley inquired.
"It's a new experience. I'm happy for the both of them. Sasuke's been a nervous wreck in recent days, unable to hide how excited and worried he is for the baby to arrive. They named her Sarada, by the way." Itachi explained, earning a smile from Riley.
"Sarada huh? I like it. She seems to have gotten her father's appearance." Riley noted the baby's dark hair from where she stood.
"Naruko said the same thing when she was here earlier." Itachi noted with a chuckle.
"Well… as matriarch of the Uzumaki, I should offer my congratulations to the new parents." Riley hummed.
"True. By the way, any news on the due date for you and Fleur?" Itachi responded.
"Nope. It's not gonna be long though. Maybe a month or two after the wedding at the most." Riley answered, earning a nod from Itachi.
"Well… why don't we go and see them then, I'm sure Karin is exhausted, despite her Uzumaki vitality. She could do with some rest." Itachi offered, garnering a hum of agreement from Riley.
The two approached the door, knocking before entering. As Riley offered her congratulations to the new parents, she couldn't help envisioning the few short months until it would be her in that very same position.
Riley knew deep down that she was going to be a better parent than Minato or Lily. She would love her child, teach them right from wrong, and then spoil them as close to rotten as she could get without creating a snot-nosed brat.
It would be a helluva time, that much, was without a doubt but still, Riley refused to allow circumstances to stop her from living. She would push forward, come hell or high water.
-Cheddar Village, Britain. May 5th 1999-
"Do you think we'll be able to spin this one?" Walter inquired, his eyes set on the smoke rising from the village before him.
"We knew this was going to happen. We warned them that this was intensifying. Now a whole town has been destroyed. If the aurors haven't prepared for something like this, than that's their problem. Mine is dealing with the one's causing it." Daphne responded, her gaze hard, and focused.
Surrounding the two was a chaotic mass of police investigators, as well as aurors, under the guise of government agents here to handle a terrorist incident.
Daphne had already dispatched Alucard into the city to locate the vampire responsible, and the Legion itself, had deployed a squad out into Cheddar village to kill the ghouls. Unlike the previous attacks, this time it had spread to almost the entire town, killing hundreds.
"It is done, my master..." Alucard's voice, trailed into Daphne's head, earning a sigh from her. She visibly nodded and motioned for Walter to follow her. The two advanced into the nearby woods, and waited for Alucard to return.
A few minutes went by before the No-Life King, made his appearance, though he wasn't alone. Cradled in his arms was the bloodied, unconscious form of a woman. A police woman to be exact. She was young, blonde of hair, broad shouldered, and quite buxom.
Daphne and Walter both shared a look when they spotted the girl.
Alucard set her down in the grass and offered his master a bow.
"The vampire priest has been dealt with, all evidence destroyed." Alucard informed them.
"Who is this?" Daphne inquired, kneeling next to the woman, alongside Walter, who quickly checked her pulse.
"Her name is Seras Victoria. An unfortunate casualty of the night's events." Alucard responded, earning a hard look from Daphne, as she noted that woman was still alive, despite the fact that the blood and hole in her shirt indicated that she had been shot through the heart.
The size of the hole, was also familiar, looking like something only Alucard's signature weapon could accomplish.
"You shot her?" Daphne noted.
"He held her as a hostage. His skills were markedly better than the rabble I've faced recently. She was dead either way. Either I kill the both of them, or he kills her, then I kill him." Alucard responded, without his usual grin, or show of arrogance.
Daphne was quiet as she examined the young woman, who looked to be around Daphne's age. Nineteen or twenty years old.
Daphne quickly noted that on top of still breathing, the wound on her chest had also healed over. Concern flood her features, as she turned her gaze to Walter. He offered her a nod, showing that he had also noted the same things she had, and come to the same conclusion.
"You turned her." Daphne stated, turning her gaze towards her servant.
"I offered her the choice. Die as a human, or live as a vampire. She chose to live." Alucard responded, again, uncharacteristically quiet for his usual grandiose self.
Daphne was silent for several long moments, internally cursing. Finally she let out a sigh and rose to her feet.
"She's coming with us. As of right now, this girl is now property of the Hellsing organization." Daphne commanded, her gaze hard and focused. "Walter, figure out what you can about her. Who she was, any family to speak of, who would miss her. Alucard… she's your responsibility. My same rules that apply to you, apply to her. Keep your offspring in check, she steps out of line even once, and her name will be on your list."
Again uncharacteristically, Alucard's face warped into a snarl. It was only for a moment, before he suddenly smiled. "Of course, my master. She will be the perfect little pet. I will make sure of it."
"That is all I ask." Daphne responded, not showing the vampire any fear. She felt her shadow shift as Alucard snarled, the wraith ready to lash out at the vampire if he dared to try and argue with Daphne. While concerned about the sudden anger, it did make sense to her, to her knowledge this was the first vampire Alucard has sired in centuries, his reaction, would have been the same reaction Riley would have given in regards to her familiars. Despite their loyalties, Daphne could not let herself forget that these were incredibly dark creatures. While called a vampire, Alucard was more closely related to a devil. They were evil, no matter what they fought for, and no matter what they claimed to believe in. Daphne wasn't worried. Despite the vampire's incredible power, she and he both knew that if he stepped out of line, it wouldn't be any ancient seals that he had to worry about. It would be the Archdemon that was always watching. Even now, Daphne felt her mate's eyes boring into her, having sensed the vampire's agitation.
"Let's go." Daphne stated, placing a hand on the woman's stomach and holding out her other, for them to take.
-Hellsing Manor, England. May 6th 1999-
Daphne sat in her office, reading over the file, Walter had provided on their newest resident. Seras Victoria. A newly made officer of the law. Her file indicated that she was an orphan, her parents having been slain during a robbery at her home, when she was little.
In and out of foster care, she had a troubling childhood. Her record as an officer so far was exemplary and indicated that she was proficient in her duties, if not a little mouthy when it came to her orders.
She closed the file and let out a sigh.
"Alucard." Daphne stated aloud to the empty room. A few moments passed before her vampiric servant rose from the ground, and offered a bow.
"Yes my master?" Alucard responded.
"Come sit. I'd like to talk with you." Daphne replied, gesturing to the seat across from her.
The vampire did as instructed, offering her one of his charming smiles as he did.
"To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" Alucard inquired.
"I'm curious about something. I want to know why you reacted the way you did yesterday. Why did you spare this young woman, and make her a vampire? Why did you react so poorly when I ordered you to keep her on a tight leash? I expect honesty, but I understand that there is still great mystery between us. So… if you would please..." Daphne inquired. As she did, she took two wine glasses that had been set on her desk and placed them before her. She withdrew from her desk a vintage red wine, pouring some into both glasses.
She then took a knife and sliced open her palm, and held it above one of the glasses, allowing it to flow into the cup, mixing with the wine. Her gaze remained passive, as it slowly drifted between the cup and Alucard, who was watching her with keen interest, and primal hunger.
A smirk touched at her lips, as she finished adding her blood to one of the glasses. She picked up her wand and quickly stitched the wound back together, and then passed Alucard the wine mixed with blood. He accepted the glass, breathing in the scent of the two liquids, intermingled.
He brought the glass to his lips, drinking in the mixture, with all of the regal elegance of an ancient lord.
Crossing his legs and leaning back in his chair, he offered her a smile.
"What lovely blood. Still as chilly as a winter storm, but within, a blazing inferno. So much like you, my beloved master." Alucard offered as a compliment earning a snort of amusement from Daphne as she drank from her own wine glass.
"You have proven yourself a loyal and worthy ally to my cause Alucard. I understand why my predecessors feared you, but I do not have the luxury of hiding behind morality. In order for me to protect my people, and the ones that I love, I must work with monsters. The girl, Seras. She will work for the Hellsing organization. In return I will allow her to remain here. And I'll allow you to teach her what it means to be a true vampire. Now… if you would be so kind as to answer my earlier questions. I am quite curious to hear your reasoning." Daphne responded.
"Well… to answer your first question, it is because she interests me. Something about her, I found curious. Keeping her alive is the only way to satiate that curiosity. As to answer your second question… bad memories. Make no mistake, I have great respect for you. What I have little respect for is men who wish to control that which they have not earned the right to. And when they cannot control such things, they seek to destroy them. She is my creation. And I am your servant." Alucard answered.
"I see. As with all things, then I will prove myself worthy. But until I do, do please follow my orders, and keep her under control. I recognize your distaste for those that overreach. Understand my need to protect those that I care for. Even from you and your new pet. I put trust in you, and I offer you the freedom your previous masters did not, because I am not afraid of you. I am however afraid of what you could do if ever you lost control. And control, is why I must emphasize her training. So long as she follows orders, and keeps in control of herself, so long as she does not jeopardize the lives of those I must protect, I will allow you to raise her as you see fit. Do we have an understanding, Alucard?" Daphne explained, earning an elegant smile from the old count.
"Do not worry master. I have a feeling she will do more then just impress. After all, I don't make wrong choices… I make investments." Alucard replied, his smile turning ferocious towards the end.
"Than I look forward to seeing this investment of your come through. Until then… we have work to do." Daphne said to him, earning a nod of agreement from her servant, as she leaned back in her chair, quietly sipping from her wine as she did.
The world was changing, that much was certain. The fall of the Statute of Secrecy, was about to begin.
-To Be Continued-
Alrighty, there you all go, hope you enjoyed, and hope everyone is having a good new year so far. Story is picking up speed now, hoping it wont be long before we get the battle of London and the fall of the Statute of Secrecy.