Deciding to put character creation off for a minute, I dove into the Progenitor Online forums. I scrolled past countless excited posts, but only one caught my eye: a thread boldly labeled "SPOILER." I clicked the link, and a sneak peek into the world of Progenitor Online filled my screen.
I meticulously scanned the screenshots, searching for any detail, any hidden advantage. For a good thirty minutes, I just stared, soaking in the images of green, flowing hills and a remote village exuding an old-world charm. The landscape immediately suggested the beta would be set in the past. Even a sliver of knowledge before logging in would be incredibly helpful.
I pulled out my phone and called Ethan. "Ethan, the VR's getting set up now. They're installing everything into the walls, making sure all the systems are operational. When they're done, I'm streaming!"
Through the phone, his excitement was almost palpable, probably outstripping mine. "David, you're so lucky! I've been looking for any streamers going live for the beta, and I haven't found anyone yet! You might be one of the few to actually get picked and stream."
I rolled my eyes. "Whatever, man. There are millions who donated and applied for a beta spot. I can't be the only one. But have you seen the info out on the forum?"
"No, man, I haven't seen anything. Send me what you found." I quickly sent him the screenshot link. It didn't take him long before I heard him oohing and aahing. "David, these screenshots are crazy, dude! The graphics are insane. You aren't even going to realize you're in a game."
I chuckled at his awe. "Ha! Ethan, that's the point. I'm going to treat this like it's real life and see how far I can get. The goal is to be #1."
The line went silent for a moment before Ethan spoke again, his tone more serious. "I believe in you, man. Just keep me updated, and I'll do my best to help. I get my VR in a month when the game releases for everyone else. I'll join and help you if I can." No one truly knew what Progenitor Online held, only that it was poised to be a colossal event. News stations were already calling its launch "A New Frontier."
"For sure, homie. I'll make sure to keep you updated. I'm getting hyped for the launch. The server goes live at midnight. We'll finally know what Progenitor Inc. is truly doing. I'll send you the link to my live stream when I go live." Just then, Lawrence, the crew leader, signaled me. "Hey Ethan, I think the Progenitor Inc. crew is done. Let me go talk with them, and I'll send you that stream invite later. Okay?"
"No problem, David," Ethan replied. "I'll keep looking for info on the game. If I find anything, I'll let you know."
I hung up and walked over to Lawrence. "Hey, Lawrence, what can I help you with?"
He looked down at me, a slight eyebrow raise. "Well, to be honest with you, kid... we finished setting up your VR capsule and equipment surprisingly easily. Your bedroom is perfectly suited to house the equipment. Now that we're finished, the only thing left for you to do is complete character creation and then wait for the server to launch."
I felt a surge of happiness that they'd finished early. I walked toward my bed area, taking in the installed equipment. Directly connected to the wall beside my bed was a sleek, silver cocoon of a machine. It was surprisingly compact, its futuristic appearance enhanced by internal lights and thick cables snaking from its back up into the ceiling, housing the nutritional fluids.
"Thanks, Lawrence. I'll tell my parents how fast you guys were. I hope you have a great day."
He cracked a smile. "Thanks, kid, I appreciate it. And a little tip for later: pick what you think resonates with you the most. Every decision matters. Good luck, Player David."
Watching the workers pack up their equipment and leave, I initially wasn't suspicious. But then Lawrence's parting words echoed in my head: "Pick what resonates with you the most... Every decision matters." What the heck was that supposed to mean? Why did he have to be so cryptic?
Shaking off Lawrence's enigmatic message, I finally grabbed the VR helmet. Strange, eldritch symbols were engraved into its surface, transforming it into a strikingly cool device. Plugging it in, a vibrant electric blue light hummed to life, filling every etched line of the headset.
I was ready. Ready to begin my character creation journey. As I lifted the VR to my head, I heard three soft knocks: Tap, tap, tap.
"Come in," I responded. My dad entered, impeccably dressed in his business suit, each step measured to perfection. He was the epitome of a sharp businessman, someone who'd invested in the right people and places to amass his millions, with a hand in seemingly every cookie jar.
"David, my boy," he began, "I talked with your mother, and she said she's already had a word with you. My talk, however, will be a little different. Your mother and I providing you with this opportunity is a big deal. Many see it as a waste, believing we've spoiled you, that you'll be a rotten product of our carelessness. Neither your mother nor I believe those people, which is why we've continued to support you. Now that the game starts tonight at midnight, there's very little I'm allowed to do to help you. When you log into Progenitor Online, you will be on your own."
I could see the faint paranoia on his face, a raw emotion I rarely saw from him. "Don't worry, Dad, I'll be fine. Nothing that happens in the game will actually affect me. I'll send you a link to my stream when I start so you can follow along and see that there's nothing to worry about."
His face shifted again, to an unreadable stare, as if contemplating a vast, complex problem. "Earth to Dad? Are you there?"
"Ha, ha. Sorry, David, I just spaced out. Don't forget, you only get one life on Progenitor Online. It's better to not look at this as a game, son."
I looked at him, absorbing the seriousness in his face and tone. "Yessir, I will try my hardest, and I will make you and Mom proud!"
His face immediately softened, warmth returning to his eyes. "I know, son. You just turned eighteen, and your mother and I are already proud of you. We just know how big this opportunity actually is, and we want you to blossom from this experience."
"I'm really looking forward to playing this game. Maybe you and Mom can join when it drops for everyone else, and we can all play together? Ethan's going to join once it drops in a month; he's already pre-ordered it."
Dad looked surprised. "Ethan's parents bought him the game? That's surprising. They've been trying to get him to get off games and get a job."
I chuckled, then spoke up for my friend. "He convinced his parents he'd try his hardest to make a living off the game. Since Progenitor Online's all over the news, it wasn't hard to convince them it was worth a try."
Dad actually looked impressed. "That boy can do some crazy things when he applies himself. I don't know how he convinced Earl to get the game, but I'm impressed. I have to go; I have a meeting in ten minutes. Call me if you need me, son. I love you."
"I love you too, Dad." Watching him leave the room, my mind snapped back to the VR helmet. I reached for it, feeling a tangible power thrumming through the cool metal in my hands. Excitement coiled in my gut; my journey was finally about to begin. I slipped the VR over my head and eyes, and my world dissolved into absolute darkness. Expecting something, anything, I almost reached to pull it off when a bright screen popped up before me: {Welcome David Foster… To Progenitor Online}.
The darkness shattered. The world around me erupted into a kaleidoscope of colors, flowing and swirling, until I was left suspended in an all-white room. A pleasant, feminine voice, seemingly from everywhere at once, enveloped me.
"Hello David, my name is Eve," the voice resonated. "I am the A.I. that's going to be controlling certain aspects of the world. The majority of actions and consequences, however, will be of player effect. I will only get involved when needed. Right now, we will begin the Character Creation aspect of the game. Please remain still as the VR helmet scans your body to get an accurate model to work with."
A transparent overlay appeared before me:
Name: David Foster Weight: 130 pounds Age: 18 Race: Caucasian Height: 5'10"
An exact replica of myself materialized in front of me, floating in the center of the room. It was a strange experience, especially realizing I didn't have a body of my own in this space. I was amazed at the VR's detail; I could even see the faint scar on my lip, a relic from a third-grade bike accident. This was far more advanced than I'd anticipated. I mentally pressed 'next'.
"Now that we have your configurations, it's time for the most important part of the Beta: determining which Progenitor you will be. A list is being developed before you, encompassing every type of supernatural creature you can imagine. There can only be one Progenitor of every species. Pick carefully, as every choice will lock in your story…"
A scrolling list shimmered into existence:
Vampire
Werewolf
Witch
Hunter
Were-?
Angel
Demon
Fairy
Ghost
Elf
Mermaid/Man
Banshee
Cyclops
Etc.
Eve's voice chimed in with a final, chilling warning: "Choose carefully, and be aware that there are those who will conspire to have either your attention or your gifts… This will be your last warning to treat this as you would The Real world."
I scrolled through the options, finally understanding why they called the game 'Progenitor Online'. The beta testers weren't just players; we were the originators of the supernatural in this new world. I clicked on 'Vampire', but it immediately greyed out, displaying (Taken). Down the list, all the 'popular' creatures were quickly snatched up. As my options dwindled, I found myself drawn to Hunter. In every supernatural story I'd ever consumed, the Hunter was always there, keeping things in check, battling the dark, ensuring balance. My mind made up, I pressed 'accept', ready to begin my journey.
I would become the First Supernatural Hunter of this new world. I would become a legend.
A new prompt appeared:
(Please enter your player character name:
It prompts me to add a name for NPC's and other Players to know me by and I know the perfect name.. Jason Blood, a traveler who is on the search for any dark or mysterious people or objects. Putting down anything that threatens a human life. I will be the Boogeyman that keeps the supernatural up at night.
"Name:Jason Blood accepted, Next is Character creation. Please use the model of your Body, You may change it up to 20%."
The model of my body slides back in front of me, Ready to begin the editing process. Looking at my body I can see a physically fit 18 year old with Midnight black hair and electric blue eyes . A scar coming off of the top of his skinny plump lips,my face is angled with a strong jawline and soft kind eyebrows.
Looking at all of the Editing tools in front of me I change my eye's to a soft red color giving my face some depth and making me seem just a little off putting. Next I added some facial hair, giving myself a beard. Looking at myself I can already tell a big difference from the kid who just wants to be acknowledged that was standing before me, To the man on the chase for something dangerous. The difference is staggering.
After I finish Creating my Avatar I look at it over 1 more time. My hair is still Midnight black but my hair is shaved to my scalp. My eyes are a light red color giving off an intense light like a man on a mission. Looking at my face it is hard to even see my scar on my lip with all of the facial hair covering my chin. I tuned up my body even more than it is now, giving myself some more muscle mass.
Staring at the person in front of me I can not even recognize myself and that's the point.
I will become Jason Blood The First Hunter.
"Now that you have finished Character creation it is time to pick your beginning weapon. You will be able to use any weapon but you will always have advantage on your beginning weapon choice. The time period is the 11th century. Please input your weapon choice.."
Sword
Bow & Arrow
Dagger
Crude Pistol
Axe
Mace
Crossbow
shield
Presented with the array of options, I hesitated. This was my starting weapon, a foundational choice. "Hey Eve," I asked, "Can I test swing a few of these options?"
"Of course, David," her voice responded instantly. Just as quickly, a gleaming rack of weapons materialized before me, inviting me to grasp them, to feel their balance and weight.
I gravitated toward the Crude Pistol, thinking it would give me an undeniable edge. But a single shot revealed its drawback: it had to be reloaded after every fire. In a world crawling with supernatural creatures, a weapon with limited ammo and a slow rate of fire felt like a death sentence. I hung it back on the stand. I tried a few other weapons, but none truly resonated with the agile, powerful playstyle I envisioned for a Hunter.
Then I picked up the Axe. I gave it a few experimental swings. Stepping forward, I spun, watching the blade flow like a natural extension of my arm. The movements felt comfortable, instinctual. My decision solidified. The axe was the only logical choice for me. Its versatility wasn't lost on me; it promised controlled, forceful blows, serving as both a formidable weapon and a practical tool. My choice was made. I selected the axe.
"Thank you, Jason," Eve's voice said, a note of finality in her tone. "Now that you have selected your starting weapon, it is time to say goodbye until the game starts at 12:00 AM. I look forward to seeing how you shape your legacy."
Listening to Eve, I realized Character Creation was complete. I pulled off the VR helmet, the real world snapping back into focus. I sat at my computer, scrolling through forums and streams covering Progenitor Online. That's when I spotted Khalancy's stream. Curious, I clicked on it, tuning in to his excited monologue.
"What's up, chat?" Khalancy began, his face beaming. "I just finished Character Creation for Progenitor Online. It looks like the game is going to be supernatural-focused, and it's set in the 11th century! I know, chat, it's going to be wild being surrounded by all this forest." He leaned closer to the camera. "The game's A.I. called herself Eve. She had me pick a supernatural creature because, apparently, the beta testers are going to be The Progenitors—the first of their species in this new world! I know, chat, it's pretty crazy. I kept it a secret, but I wanted it to be a surprise!"
He gestured excitedly. "When I was creating my character, I had to pick a Player Character name that matched my creature. So, I'm Alastor Ducayne, The First Vampire. I am so hyped to see what I can do when the server finally opens!"
Turning off Khalancy's Stream I call Ethan to let him know what's happened I switched off Khalancy's stream and immediately called Ethan to fill him in. The phone rang twice before his familiar, excited tone burst through. "Hey David! Have you seen Khalancy's stream? He got a beta spot too! You might actually get to meet our favorite streamer in real life. I thought you were lucky before, but now you're on a whole new level!"
"Calm down, Ethan!" I yelled, laughing. "If I meet Khalancy, I'm not going to freak out. I'll keep my composure and treat him like a normal person."
Ethan chuckled. "Ha! Whatever, dude, you totally would. Anyway, tell me about the game! What did you see?"
"Okay, check this out. My character is going to be Jason Blood. The game asked what supernatural creature I wanted to be, and it gave me a list. I saw other beta testers picking their creatures. I even saw Khalancy pick the Vampire option — it was grayed out for me when I looked. Watching everyone go for the 'cooler' options, I decided to take a harder route. I picked being a Hunter. Not just any Hunter, but the very first one."
A long silence stretched on Ethan's end. "Whoa, dude, that's deep. You have a whole thought process on what you're going to do already? That's crazy! This game sounds really good. I can't wait to watch your live stream and see what the first look is going to be like."
Listening to his excitement, I realized it wouldn't be hard to gain a following playing this game. I glanced at the clock; only thirty minutes until the game launched! "You shouldn't have to wait long. The game launches in thirty minutes. Let me hop off the call and get into the capsule to set up my stream and get ready. I'll see you in my stream, and remember, my name is K1NG there. Later, bro."
I hung up and walked over to my desk, pressing the button to call Alfonzo. "Alfonzo, I'm about to log into the VR. Please have some food ready for me whenever I log out. Thank you." I then lay down in the capsule, listening to the soft, mechanical whirring of the machine. Alfonzo's voice confirmed my request over the intercom. It took a little while to get my stream set up, but once it was ready, I knew it was time. The capsule doors began to close, plunging me into pitch darkness. It was game time now. My journey was about to begin. The final countdown appeared: 5… 4….3…..2…..1..Link start.
The darkness vanished, replaced by a sprawling map of multiple continents. I stared, baffled by its sheer, overwhelming size. Most games offered closed borders and limited spaces, but Progenitor Online had clearly shattered those expectations. They'd created a full, living world.
My eyes swept across the vast landscape, settling on several potential starting locations. The first was Eden, a village nestled securely at the base of towering mountains. Blocked on three sides, it boasted natural defenses, with only one way in and one way out, making it seem incredibly secure. The ground around it looked incredibly fertile, and a river snaked from the mountains, breathing life into the entire region.
Next, my gaze drifted to Blackstone, a small, desolate town that felt completely isolated. Normally, I wouldn't even consider such a place. It exuded an aura that seemed to push people away, yet something about it whispered of hidden opportunities—a perfect spot to figure things out and carve out a reputation. The town perched precariously on a cliff, overlooking a vast, churning ocean. Its infertile ground meant the people herded cattle instead of growing crops, though a few residents managed small, struggling gardens. The weather was another challenge entirely; it rained three to four days a week, making life in Blackstone a harsh existence.
I scanned the map once more for another suitable location, my eyes snagging on an island just off the coast of a recently fractured kingdom. This island was largely undeveloped but had a surprisingly appealing name: Crystal Cove, named for the glittering crystals found in its caves. Multiple smaller islands clustered around it, painting a picture of a potential tropical paradise once developed.
Your starting location options are…
Eden
Blackstone
Crystal Cove
It took me a solid minute, weighing the pros and cons of each choice. This wasn't just picking a spawn point; it was the genesis of everything to come. A visceral sense of unease filled me as I considered Blackstone. I knew almost immediately it wasn't for me. The town felt desolate, depressing. Perpetual clouds hung overhead, unleashing endless gallons of rain. Fog drifted from the ground, giving the entire place an eerie aura, and the constant crash of waves against jagged, rocky cliffs set a grim, unforgettable soundtrack. No, Blackstone was not for me.
My attention then shifted to Crystal Cove, and I was genuinely blown away by its beauty. This tropical paradise was a sight to behold, deserving a double-take. The sand was a soft, inviting pink, tinting the water a lovely rosy hue. Healthy, vibrant coral reefs surrounded the islands, a kaleidoscope of color beneath the clear water. However, navigating the tight channels and narrow gaps between the islands would be a constant struggle. That alone annoyed me. I needed the freedom to move, not to be perpetually surrounded by water. I loved this place, and I knew I'd find it again eventually, but for now, it simply wasn't the right starting point.
Knocking the other two off my list, I felt no disappointment with what remained. Eden, a medium-sized village cradled in the heart of a mountain range, was surrounded on three sides by towering peaks, providing the best natural defense I'd seen. A river flowed through the mountains and directly through the village, offering everything its residents could ever need. The village was surprisingly well-populated, protected by decent guards at its sole entrance and exit. The Village Leader served as the ultimate arbiter of justice and final decisions.
My decision was made. I confirmed my choice. "Eve, please select Eden as my starting location."
She appeared behind me in an instant, floating above the world map. "Of course, Jason. I have confirmed your decision. There is only one more thing I must go over with you." Her words caught me off guard. What else could she possibly want before the game began?
"Jason Blood," Eve continued, her voice resonating with gravitas, "You are the Progenitor of any and all Hunters who shall come after you. The Shepherd of the supernatural species, looking after and protecting those who need to be protected, and culling any and all who upset the delicate balance this world will soon undergo. As one of the first people to experience this world, we would offer a boon to you, Jason Blood... As the Progenitor, choose the blessings and gifts you shall receive to level the field between you and other supernatural entities."
I was stunned. I got to have a say in how future Hunters experienced the game? That was incredible! "Eve, what all can I request?"
"There are no limits to what you can request," she responded, "The only limit being you must remain Human."
My brain kicked into overdrive, racing to devise the best possible boon. "Okay, Eve, I know how I want to do this. I want to have a Hunter's Mark. A mark tattooed onto any of my descendants in the shape of a compass, with runes etched onto it. I want the mark to be the antithesis to any supernatural creature. A normal hunter without the mark will need to exploit a creature's weakness to kill them, but if you have the Hunter's Mark, you are their weakness. I want the compass to direct you to where you are most needed."
A subtle smirk touched Eve's ethereal face. "Yes, Jason, I can make that happen. You will be enhanced beyond any human standards, but below any supernatural-enhanced individuals. Your Hunter's Mark will be your main tool for survival. It may even surprise you from time to time with all that it is capable of."
Her tone shifted, becoming more cautionary. "Now that I have given you your boon, I must warn you: you are not the only person to receive one. In fact, every Beta Tester will receive such a boon from me, whatever it is they ask for. Be warned, Jason Blood, there will be creatures that go wild in the night. It is now your job to establish an order to defend the innocent, whether they be supernatural or mortal, as long as they are innocent. The beauty, however, is that you can do whatever you want. You could become the exterminator of the supernatural, or the hero the people need you to be. The choices will be yours to make, and I will be watching to see your journey. Good luck, Jason."