Alucard knew that taking D in meant that the castle, large as it was, would be that tiniest bit more cramped. Would feel smaller, would shift home by a few hairs. Alucard also knew that he couldn't turn D away. It'd be cruel, and his mother would come back to haunt Alucard for the choice.

So he had given D a room, encouraged him to explore, and then set about examining the debris that came through with the vampire hunter and his parasite. It was remarkable, the technology, ahead of Dracula's own future thoughts. That in and of itself was remarkable and slightly terrifying, but more than that? It was thrilling.

He sat up for evenings on end, making sense of the component parts. Taking notes, drawing diagrams, making a list of queries he'd ask D when he thought the time was right. It was all wonderful, save for the feeling of being watched.

Because of course. A man can't find a purpose instantly. It's a horrible thing, having the world turned on it's head like this. But all the same--

--"You can come in."

He knew that D was outside the office he used for himself. It was impossible to not overhear the conversation.