Perhaps Alucard was prepared for anything, detached and aloof he had made himself a stranger to the tower. It had been an easy existence and one of little concern to others.

But there was one person who he was not yet ready to face, and upon seeing them, hearing their voice, any confidence that the dhampir had once had in his deluded monologue was now lost.

Words did not come, but the subtle changes in the dhampir's expression spoke volumes. There was that commonplace humility that Alucard had always carried in those golden eyes, but something fresh and dark lay in his gaze. There was a deep shame that was buried within him, the taste of dead blood had infected his soul, as well as the knowledge that some remained who had witnessed his base act.

And yet, in the darkness and cacophony of emotions that were racing through his mind, Alucard face continued to hold a hint of tenderness. Especially for his closest friend here in the tower.

"Why--" he began, his voice a ghost in the grandeur of the cathedral "--why did you come here?" a pause "In search of me? Then... you did not hear rumour of my actions?" his eyes drifted from the elf's, regret heavy in his coal-black heart. "But even if you did not hear tell of what I did, you still come in search for me? Are you not afraid?"