Progenitor

"Only pure-blooded vampires count as our people, my King. You'll understand the real reason for this in time. Now, as for the benefits—first, I've shared some information about both of you so you can know each other better." Vesa's ruby-red eyes gleamed, and in the next instant, a flood of knowledge surged into their minds.

Alex and Mingyue's gazes locked as they processed the new information. It contained details about their worlds and glimpses into each other's lives.Mingyue came from the Xueqi family, a mid-level cultivation clan in her world, and trained in the Blue Lotus Sect. Meanwhile, Alex's world, filled with towering skyscrapers, flying machines, and intricate devices, left Mingyue stunned.

A spark of curiosity ignited within her—she wanted to see it for herself. Compared to Alex's world, her own felt like a secluded mountain village. 'So, cultivation worlds actually exist... They aren't just something from novels,' Alex mused. 'Based on this information, the highest known cultivation level is immortal, but there must be realms beyond that... and even higher worlds. If I can cultivate and use this knowledge wisely, I could massively expand my family's wealth. Then maybe Mom would finally stop nagging me!' 

To Alex, his mother's relentless nagging was his true arch-nemesis. Not the apocalyptic dragon, not the eerie supernatural events unfolding around him—none of it compared to her lectures. In fact, instead of feeling overwhelmed, he was thrilled. He had already grown bored of reading the same old novel plots and spending his fortune on games.

"As you grow closer to becoming a progenitor, my power will strengthen as well," Vesa continued. "I will eventually be able to help you move between worlds. For now, I can only allow brief meetings like this or send small objects across. Beyond that, since both of you share the same source of power, you should be able to communicate telepathically at any time. The System will also assist in maximizing your growth by granting you access to abilities of past progenitors. For instance, King, the System can locate the most suitable people for any task you require, as it constantly scans the auras of those around you. And Queen, it will allow you to sense treasures in your surroundings. Not only that, but when you wish to refine pills or practice your secret art, I can provide the most efficient method to do so."

"So... basically, it's like the ERX chip function," Alex muttered. He took a step forward and extended his hand toward Mingyue. "No matter what, our lives are intertwined now. Let's start over properly. I'm Alex Campbell, the only son of the Campbell family."

Mingyue narrowed her eyes. "Only son?" she repeated. "You still have a sister."

Alex chuckled. "And she's the only daughter. I'm the only son. It's perfectly accurate."

Mingyue blinked, then sighed as realization dawned. This guy… he was joking. She shook his hand. "I'm Mingyue. You should already know my family by now. And honestly? Your sense of humor is terrible. Do you not see the situation we're in?"

Alex chuckled, enjoying the handshake Without letting go, he said, "You're too serious. There's no point worrying about things we can't change right now. So let me be direct—I want a cultivation method. In exchange, I'll get you something from my world."

Mingyue raised an eyebrow. "You should know the cultivation method I use is my family's secret. I can't just hand it over. Even if I did, we'd need to figure out your element and talent grade first."

"My Queen," Vesa interjected, "he is the King, not an outsider. And as I've already mentioned, both of your bodies have been transformed. Even an All Elemental Heavenly grade talent would pale in comparison to his potential now. A half-vampire in Eldonia could easily crush an immortal in your world. And both of you possess progenitor blood."

Mingyue's eyes lit up with excitement. "Wait, are you saying he's even more talented than those so-called heavenly-chosen geniuses because of this transformation? Does that mean the same applies to me?"

"Yes, my Queen. However, I strongly advise you not to reveal this to anyone in your world." Mingyue scoffed.

"Vesa, do you take me for an idiot? The cultivation world is cutthroat. I wouldn't trust anyone with this information except my own clan and parents."

"Queen, I know you won't believe me now, but I mean including them. Once you return, the System will allow you to sense their true intentions. You'll understand in time."

 Mingyue frowned, an uneasy feeling creeping into her heart. She wanted to argue, but Alex cut in, "Just keep it to yourself for now, Mingyue. It costs you nothing. So, where do we stand on the cultivation technique?"

"Give me time, Alex. I need to think about it. I also have to decide what I want from your world in return."

"Alright. Just let me know when you've made up your mind or if you need anything." He then turned his attention to Vesa. "How do we become progenitors? Do we just wait until the blood fully transforms our bodies?"

Vesa laughed. "If only it were that simple, King. The blood you've received is just the beginning. The true power of a progenitor is scattered across many worlds, split into different fragments. But don't worry—I know where they all are. When I deem you both strong enough, I'll start giving you missions to reclaim them."

Suddenly, Vesa's expression darkened. "Queen, you need to return. I've placed you in a forest near the secret realm entrance, but I sense movement approaching your location."

Mingyue nodded. "Got it. See you later, Vesa, Alex." Her body shimmered before fading into nothingness. Alex's hand, once grasping hers, now clutched empty air. He sighed, pulling it back before shifting his gaze to the pink creature before him. "Vesa, what exactly are the characteristics of the Vampire race? You should know how they're portrayed in my world."