The Kaneki trifecta have their last conversation with Alucard, their ancestor, before he has to go back to London to the plot of Hellsing. He tells them the true story of Prince Vlad of Wallachia (sold to a Sultan as a child who raped him for years before he killed him, rose as a prince who fought and killed for his God only to be killed by his people, and sell his soul to the devil). He tells them what Van Hellsing taught him: “Only a man can kill a monster”.

“Please tell us more.” Rin leans forward eagerly. Kaneki is dutifully taking notes through his tears, and Suzuya is clutching Kaneki’s shoulders. 

Alucard sighs. “There’s not much more. I suppose my words apply to all of you now.”

“Which ones?” Kaneki looks at his notes.

“I’m sorry that happened to you,” Suzuya says.

“And I’m sorry for what Madam did to you,” Alucard replies. “But, Kaneki especially: to become a monster as I am, is to admit you were too weak to remain human.”

Kaneki flinches. “I had to.”

“So did I, I thought.” Alucard stares into the distance. “Only a man can kill a monster.”

Kaneki looks at Suzuya.

“You can’t kill a monster using monstrous methods.” Now Alucard looks at Suzuya, who swallows. 

Mr. Shinohara? Monstrous methods? 

“Rin, you’re the full human among your family.”

“Me?” she squeaks. She’s always felt insecure in her humanity. “Are you saying my humanity is…important?”

“I don’t think your humanity means anything,” Alucard says bluntly. “But I think your compassion and empathy surpass your brothers’. That’s more important than your species. And if you want a path forward for both species, you’ll have learn a new way of fighting, beyond embracing the violence.”

Rin sniffles. “Do you think any of us can?”

“Together?” Alucard looks in each of their eyes. “Yeah, I do.”