Chapter 6: Prediction, Not Surprised

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Cross-over from various games, books, anime, manga, and movies.

The familiar characters you see here belong to their respected authors and owners.

"Speech"

Time*

Chapter 6: Prediction, Not Surprised

The next day*

It's morning, and the weather is lovely. The sun casts a warm glow across the room as I stare out the window, just like I did yesterday. I notice the soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze and the distant chirping of birds. In the window's reflection, I see a confused look on my face, furrowed brows, and searching eyes.

"I became a smoker after marrying Integra?" I thought out loud, confused by the Dream Divination I'd experienced. The dream was clearer than yesterday, with vivid images, and the conversations in the dream still linger in my mind. Despite the clarity, I was left with more questions than answers.

I stretch my arms, feeling the tension release from my muscles, then call all the Cards of Blasphemy. One by one, they flicker into existence, stacking on top of each other with a soft, otherworldly glow until they form a complete deck for me to hold. The weight of the cards in my hand feels both familiar and ominous.

I recall what I know of Card Reading and how the Cards of Blasphemy are based on tarot cards, specifically the 22 Major Arcana, numbered from 0 to 21. Each card holds deep symbolism and power, but unlike traditional tarot, there are no 56 cards for the Minor Arcana. This presents a unique challenge; nonetheless, the Cards of Blasphemy themselves are potent and should suffice for an effective Card Reading.

As I shuffle the Cards of Blasphemy, I recall the method I've learned from Card Reading Rituals. The general three-card tarot spread was one of the first things I seemed to learn, going by my memory.

While sitting in bed, I continue to shuffle the Cards of Blasphemy in a relaxed, non-fixed pattern, allowing my instincts to guide the movement of each card. Perhaps influenced by the Card of Fool. After completing the shuffle, I carefully lay three cards face down in front of me.

Before flipping the three cards, I take a moment to ponder what I wish to explore. Thoughts drift through my mind, focusing on the questions and uncertainties that have been weighing on me. Each card holds the promise of insight into these mysteries, and I prepare myself for the revelations they might offer.

Then, I focus on the current situation, obstacles, and advice in that order.

The first card on the left reveals the upright Card of Demoness, its ominous figure and swirling energies suggesting the presence of primal forces or hidden desires.

In the middle, the second card appears in reverse, showing the Card of Chained. Its inverted position hints at constraints or inner turmoil that may be holding back progress or freedom.

Lastly, on the right, the third card stands upright, displaying the Card of Red Priest. Its vibrant imagery and symbolic significance may indicate guidance from a spiritual or authoritative figure, offering direction or insight.

If I were to guess, then the Card of Demoness likely represents Integra, as she is the focal point of my current situation. Considering the insights from the previous two Dream Divinations adds weight to this interpretation. Thus, this card reflects my current situation: her leadership and influence over me.

The Card of Chained, in its reversed position, unmistakably symbolizes Alucard, especially in light of recent events. He appears as an obstacle, though the exact reasons are beyond me now. His presence suggests barriers or challenges that need to be understood and addressed.

Lastly, the Card of Red Priest is confusing in its symbolism. Its upright position hints at guidance or influence from a figure of authority or spiritual significance. Deciphering who or what it represents poses a new puzzle to solve in this reading.

Overall, it's not too bad for my first card reading despite only fully interpreting two of the cards in the three-card tarot spread.

As the Cards of Blasphemy disappear before my eyes, I take a moment to reflect on the insights gained from the reading.

Gradually, I started getting ready for the day and wondered what Integra might have planned for me. However, the lingering presence of Alucard in the reading suggests I should remain vigilant and prepared. As I ponder the significance of the Card of Red Priest, I wonder who or what entity it could represent in today's unfolding events.

Hours later*

The Imperial War Museum has vast halls filled with military artifacts, including tanks, planes, uniforms, and weapons from various periods. The high ceilings and expansive spaces give it a cavernous feel, with each show meticulously arranged to tell the story of military history. The dim lighting and echoing visitors' footsteps add to the heavy and thoughtful atmosphere.

Overall, it is not a place I find myself staying in for too long. While the exhibits are impressive, I'm not much of a history person unless something specifically interests me. Although fascinating, the vast halls and detailed displays rarely hold my attention for extended periods.

Nevertheless, being with Integra as somewhat one of her personal bodyguards, I shouldn't be complaining too much. However, my mind slowly drifted off to a state of boredom, the surroundings, and routine leading to idle thoughts. I find myself observing Integra more closely than usual, charmed by how she usually looks from her suit into a stylish black one-piece dress with a matching hat.

Integra smiles warmly at me whenever she catches me staring; it makes me glad that this body has a good poker face that barely shows any emotions from what I could tell each time I stare into a mirror.

"Walter, the time?" Integra squints her eyes, displaying her growing annoyance as she fixes her gaze on a painting on the wall.

Walter pulls out a polished pocket watch from his vest, flipping it open effortlessly to check the time, "3:00 PM. Exactly."

"It seems our host appears to be late. Could it be..." Integra's brow furrows as she glances at Walter with a frown. "That we have fallen into another trap?"

"Impossible. However, we are dealing with the Vatican." Walter explained calmly. "They would not dare to aggress against us in broad daylight. After all, we have the home-field advantage here, and they are hundreds of miles away from any immediate support."

In other words, if this was during nighttime. Then, they can be aggressive at us as much as they want. Is that what I'm hearing, Walter? Ugh, it's sometimes hard to keep these thoughts to myself and not say them out loud. Not without risking causing unwanted troubles.

Suddenly, I look to my right and notice two men approaching. One of them is carrying a jacket over his arm, while the other is holding a suitcase. Both wear glasses and are wearing business suits along with a cross necklace.

"Wow! The Imperial War Museum! This collection is absolutely magnificent! Unrivaled in quality and comprehensiveness!" The man carrying a jacket, his eyes wide with admiration as he pointed towards a display of artifacts, his enthusiasm obvious in every gesture.

"Indeed. I feel the same." The man carrying the suitcase nodded in appreciation as he glanced around at the impressive exhibits.

Then, just as the two men were about to continue their tour of the museum, they noticed Integra, Walter, and me standing nearby.

"Oh..." The man carrying the jacket looked awkward, his eyes widening slightly as he shifted uncomfortably under our gaze. "Drat. It seems we're late." He looks at the other man next to him.

"It does appear so." The man carrying the suitcase sweatdrops.

I'm starting to realize who might be representing the Card of Red Priest from this morning's Card Reading, thanks to the two men's appearance jogging my memory of what I remember from the Hellsing series.

"Good afternoon, good afternoon. Sorry for keeping you." The man carrying the jacket says with a warm smile as he walks toward Integra.

"Stop. Do not approach me further." Integra said coldly, her voice laced with authority and disdain. "What business does Iscariot have here? How dare they send a raucous little boy to represent their band of murderers?"

"Don't you think you're going a bit far, lady?" The man carrying the jacket takes off his glasses, carefully putting them into his pocket. "I certainly don't feel very welcome. Allow me to introduce myself." He places his free arm over his chest in a formal gesture. "I am the commander of Division XIII: Enrico Maxwell. Pleased to meet you."

"State your business!" Integra demanded, her voice sharp as she pointed directly at Enrico. "Self-introductions are unnecessary."

Enrico let out an awkward chuckle, "Please don't be angry. I'm not here to start a conflict."

"How am I to believe that?! Iscariot violated countless treaties when it dispatched Father Anderson to Northern Ireland in an attempt to destroy Alucard. You have not only attacked my organization but also slaughtered two of my soldiers!" Integra scowled fiercely at Enrico.

Enrico stays silent, with his eyes closed, still smiling.

"I was almost killed, too! Don't tell me that you weren't aware!" Integra shouted again, showing how angry she was as she confronted Enrico.

"So what?" Enrico responded coldly, his tone matching her anger, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"What do you mean, 'so what'?" Integra narrowed her eyes at Enrico.

"What makes you think that you can step over our backs and up our stairs whenever tensions ease?" Enrico sneers, tilting his chin slightly and staring down at Integra with a glare. "I don't care if it's two English casualties or two million. We would never deal with your heretical ilk if it were not a direct order from the Vatican."

I glance over at Walter, who has been quiet this whole time. It makes me wonder if he will do anything, but it seems he is too busy 'staring' at the painting on the wall, his eyes fixed and his expression unreadable.

"So I suggest that you shut up and listen! You ignorant heathen sow!"

And just like that, I see Alucard materialize not too far behind Integra.

"As one would expect—the infantile Iscariots. Your whining can be heard from miles away." Alucard grinned, speaking with a mocking tone. "Oppressors of men, makers of the False Peace... Betrayers of the law, slaughterers of all who oppose... It's always the same. Rome has changed little in two millennia."

"The Nosferatu Alucard. Hellsing's trash disposal! The Ace of Death!" Enrico mocked Alucard, showing no fear of the infamous vampire. "This is the first time I've seen you in person. Good afternoon, Mr. Alucard."

"Good afternoon to you as well, Maxwell. Requiescat in Pace." Alucard's grin faded, his gaze turning cold as he looked at Enrico like a dead man. "How dare you... Call my master a swine!" He raised Casull and pointed it directly at Enrico. "Don't think you'll be leaving England alive. For I shall kill you, bastard!"

Enrico begins clapping slowly, a smug smirk spreading across his face as he looks at Alucard.

"Oh, I'm paralyzed in fear. I'm afraid that we can't talk about business anymore. For the last time, we wouldn't be here if these weren't direly important matters. But, if you wish for a fight... a fight you shall get. Therefore... At attention!" Enrico snaps his fingers loudly, the sound echoing in the tense atmosphere. "AAANDERSONNN!"

There are sounds of hurried footsteps, almost stomping the ground. Following the sound, there he is—Alexander Anderson—making his dramatic entrance before my eyes. He strides forward with his familiar grin, dressed in his priestly attire, with iconic gloves and a displayed cross necklace. He is armed with a pair of distinctive weapons known as bayonets.

The morning's Card Reading suddenly makes so much sense now.