Ava guided the twins through the halls of the hospital. The walls around them were adorned with intricate holographic displays showcasing medical advancements and various treatments that they offered.
Lycaon and Frankenstein followed them closely. After all, in Dracula's absence, they were responsible for taking care of the twins. That is, as long as they were set on travelling through the galaxy.
As they reached a section of the medical facility that specialised in Vampire ailments, Ava scanned her ID, and the door blocking their path disappeared as if it dissolved into air. The moment they stepped through, the door materialised behind them again.
"That's an interesting tech..." Lycaon mumbled. His inventor's brain immediately got distracted by the doors. "I have never seen something like this, even in space."
"That's because it's Tarik's latest creation," Ava smiled. "Although I'm not sure myself, the door utilises light, and in a way, the scanner turns the photons into a solid structure. You can ask Tarik for a better explanation later."
"What an interesting concept!" Lycaon looked baffled and intrigued to meet the man who could cook up something so ingenious.
It wasn't until Frank rolled his eyes that Lycaon realised their place and situation. They were there to get the twins checked, not ask about the new earth's advancements.
After going through a couple more doors, Ava suddenly turned and stopped the men. "Only women are allowed from here as we'll have to do a full-body checkup on the twins."
"Of course," Frank replied with a nod. "We shall wait here then."
Lycaon also nodded, and the two turned to look for something to bid their time. Ultimately, they settled for arm wrestling as they had nothing better to do in the hospital.
Meanwhile, Ava guided the twins inside a room full of intricate instruments they hadn't seen before and half a dozen female vampires waiting for them. All of whom were dressed in lab coats and medical staff uniforms.
"Lady Ava, it's been a while," the green-haired, pale-skinned doctor greeted them. "And these must be the young ladies."
"That's right, Dr Brenna," Ava replied, her gaze shifting towards the twins. "These are Lord Alucard's daughters."
"Alright then, let's get you prepped up for the examination," Dr Brenna replied as a pair of nurses helped each twin.
Then Brenn led the twins to separate examination rooms while Ava waited in the reception area. The minutes ticked by, and finally, they all stepped out of the room.
"Good news. The injuries they sustained have healed quite well." Dr Brenna said, her eyes fixed on the holographic tablet. "Their 'vital' signs are stable, and they're on the path to a full recovery."
Ava smiled at the twins, and they returned the sentiment. Either way, they already knew they weren't in any danger, but since Ava and Ashton were adamant about them getting checked out, the twins had obliged their request.
"They do need some rest, though," Dr Brenna continued. "Their bodies have been through a lot, and a bit of relaxation will go a long way."
"Thanks for your help," Ava replied as the twin joined her. "I'll make sure they get the rest they need."
With that, they headed outside to deliver the news to the Progenitors, who were equally elated.
"We should inform Ashton about it as well," Ava mumbled, remembering that Ashton, Flintmace and Vulcan had headed towards the Arena to check the mutants' strength. "I just hope they don't go overboard..."
***
Meanwhile, Ashton, Vulcan, and Flintmace traversed the bustling streets of New Livania. The city's vibrant energy was palpable, with holographic billboards advertising everything from entertainment to cutting-edge technology.
"Aachoo~" Ashton sneezed, which wasn't expected due to his weird combination of genes. "Who's cursing me now?"
"Ask the Xyrans whom you killed." Vulcan rolled his eyes, as Ashton was the last person he would have expected to believe in such superstitions.
"Xyrans that we killed," Ashton corrected. "Besides, if it's the Xyrans were talking about, then I'd rather sneeze my whole life than let them do as they please."
[You really don't wanna make that trade, believe me.]
'...yeah.'
As they approached the Arena, Ashton could feel the energy coming from the massive building. Even Vulcan, who rarely enjoyed barbaric action, was excitedly tapping his feet.
As for Flintmace, he was a warrior through and through, so obviously, he wanted to see some capable people fight it out. But for Ashton, the purpose was a bit different.
The Arena was a place of potential, a crucible where skilled individuals sought to prove their mettle and a place for Ashton to recruit highly sought mercenaries for the Ghosts.
After all, no matter how strong he was, he needed money to stay operational, and his primary source of income was mercenary gigs.
'Staying a billionaire is not an easy job,' Ashton smirked as they headed inside.
Inside the Arena, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Aspiring fighters, warriors, and combatants had gathered, their eyes set on the grand stage where battles of skill and strength took place. Spectators cheered from the stands, their cheers echoing through the Arena.
Ashton's eyes scanned the crowd, seeking out those who displayed exceptional prowess, those who had the potential to join his renowned mercenary faction, the Ghosts.
There, he encountered a familiar face, Virgil, who was the appointed head of the Arena. Since Virgil hadn't seen him yet, Ashton messed around with him by pretending to be an aspirant and walking up to challenge him.
"Hey there, big shot," Ashton drawled, puffing his chest out exaggeratedly. "I've come to challenge you!"
"Go find someone of your stature," Virgil replied without turning around. "I'm not interested in fighting kids."
Virgil, still oblivious to Ashton's presence, remained facing the Arena, his focus on the ongoing match. Ashton couldn't resist the opportunity and gave Virgil a playful smack on the back of his head.
The unexpected smack jolted Virgil, his head snapping to the side. His eyes narrowed in irritation, ready to deliver a sharp retort to the bold challenger who dared disturb him.
But when he turned, and his gaze met Ashton's, his annoyance melted into a broad grin.
"Well, well, well," Virgil chuckled, giving Ashton a friendly shove. "Looks who's back!"
"So what about the match?" Ashton replied with a smile.
"Ready when you are!" Virgil replied, flexing his knuckles.