Thames River Battle

Lore & Background

Visually, the scene is defined by heavy rain, thick London fog, and the contrast of crimson blood against dark water. It marks a shift from urban skirmishes to open warfare on British soil. The destruction of the Millennium's river fleet delays their advance significantly. Notably, Alexander Anderson arrives in London prior to this battle, preceding Alucard's deployment to the river.

In Their Own Story

Rain hammered the black surface of the Thames, masking the silence that fell after the slaughter. Alucard stood atop a splintered hull, his red coat soaked and dripping into the churning water below. The fog swallowed the screams of the fallen, leaving only the splash of bodies hitting the river. He adjusted his gloves, looking toward the city skyline where more shadows gathered.

Reader's Guide

The conflict begins when Millennium forces attempt to cross London via the river system as part of their total invasion strategy. Alucard arrives to intercept the vanguard of the vampire army, descending upon them with terrifying speed. He engages in brutal close-quarters combat against numerous undead soldiers on bridges and boats spanning the waterway. A key confrontation occurs with a high-ranking officer commanding the vessel fleet who attempts to use her unique abilities against him. Using his supernatural agility and weaponry, he decimates the opposing force without sustaining significant injury. The dark water becomes saturated with blood as ships are sliced apart and capsized in the fog. This engagement halts the immediate advance into the city center, buying time for Hellsing to prepare. It forces the enemy to regroup and deploy heavier assets like Anderson later in the war. The battle showcases Alucard's overwhelming power compared to standard vampires and sets a grim tone for the siege. Hellsing agents observe from a distance, realizing the true scale of the threat facing London. Ultimately, the river serves as a graveyard for the initial wave of invaders before the final confrontation at the cathedral begins.

Did You Know?

• This event corresponds to Episode 7 of the Hellsing Ultimate OVA series.
• The battle takes place entirely within the city limits of London during heavy rainfall.
• It is one of the few times Alucard fights openly without Seras Victoria present at his side.
• Alexander Anderson's arrival in London occurs before Alucard engages the Millennium forces on the Thames.