Jack's vision swam as the void dissolved into light. He blinked, raising a hand to shield his eyes as the brightness softened. Gradually, the world took shape—a tropical island, vivid and alive, stretched out before him. Towering palm trees swayed in a warm, gentle breeze, their shadows rippling across pristine white sand. The rhythmic crash of waves filled the air, mingling with the fragrant blend of salt and blooming flowers. The scene was breathtaking, serene… and utterly unexpected.
Jack hesitated, stepping forward tentatively. His feet sank into the soft sand, a sensation that felt oddly unfamiliar. His body, too, felt strange—lighter, smaller. Looking down, his breath caught. His hands, once rough and weathered, were now smooth and unmarked, almost childlike. His clothes hung awkwardly, too large for his frame.
"What the…?" he murmured, his voice higher and thinner than it should have been.
The realization hit like a crashing wave. His body—his entire self—had changed.
"Koa," Jack called sharply, panic edging his tone. "What's going on? Reincarnation was supposed to mean starting over as a baby. So why am I… like this?"
A calm, emotionless voice echoed in his mind.
[Your soul was too developed and energetic for a newborn body. To ensure compatibility and stability, I used excess reincarnation energy to create a body at the minimum age capable of housing your soul and this System.]
Jack blinked in confusion. "Minimum age? How old am I, exactly?"
[Approximately twelve years old.]
"Twelve?!" Jack's voice cracked, disbelief and frustration evident. He ran a hand through his hair—thicker and darker than he remembered—and groaned. "I'm a freaking kid?"
The thought left him conflicted. On one hand, he was spared the indignity of crawling and babbling like an infant. On the other hand, being twelve felt… wrong. Experimentally, he stretched his arms, wincing at how weak and uncoordinated the movements were. His limbs lacked the strength and precision he once knew. It was like wearing a costume that didn't quite fit.
Jack exhaled deeply, forcing himself to focus. "I guess it could be worse. At least I'm not stuck crying for milk. But still… this body feels so weak."
[That is to be expected. The body was designed to suit your current age and developmental stage. With proper training and nourishment, it will grow stronger.]
"Fine," Jack muttered, rubbing his temples. "I'll deal with being twelve for now. But what I really need to know is—what can you actually do, Koa?"
[At this stage, most of my functions are restricted for your safety.]
Jack raised an eyebrow. "Restricted? Why?"
[The System's Creator implemented a gradual training program to help Users adapt to their abilities. Unlocking all functions immediately could overwhelm an unprepared soul, risking permanent damage.]
Jack groaned. "Great. So what can you do right now?"
[Currently, I can provide knowledge about your surroundings and access to basic scholarly lessons. These lessons are designed to build your foundational understanding of this world over time.]
Jack pinched the bridge of his nose. "School? Are you telling me that after everything I've been through, I'm back in middle school?"
[These lessons are essential for your survival. They will equip you with knowledge relevant to this environment and help you adapt.]
Jack sighed, turning his gaze to the ocean stretching endlessly around him. The island—no more than three miles across by his estimate—seemed utterly isolated.
"Well," he muttered, "it's not like I have anything better to do."
He scanned the landscape: a beach curving gently around the island, bordered by dense jungle. Beyond the treetops, a small hill rose in the center, crowned with taller trees. It was picturesque and peaceful, but the solitude weighed heavily on him.
"So, what's the first step?" Jack asked, brushing sand from his hands. "I need food, water, and shelter if I'm going to survive here."
[Initiating environmental analysis.]
Jack felt the System's presence intensify slightly before Koa spoke again.
[This island contains a freshwater spring located approximately 1.2 miles north. Vegetation includes several fruit-bearing trees and plants suitable for consumption. Basic shelter can be constructed using local resources.]
Jack nodded. "Good to know. And I assume you're not going to magically build a shelter for me?"
[Correct. I will provide guidance, but all physical tasks must be performed by you.]
"Figures," Jack muttered. "Alright, water first. Lead the way."
Adjusting his oversized clothes, Jack trudged toward the jungle. The sand grew firmer and cooler underfoot as he entered the shade of towering trees. The air became humid, alive with the chirping of birds and rustling leaves. Each step felt surreal—a new body, a new island, a new world. Yet, beneath the strangeness, there was a faint sense of déjà vu, as if pieces of his old life clung to the edges of this one.
Breaking the silence, Jack asked, "About these lessons—how do they work? Do I just ask questions, or are they structured?"
[The lessons are structured and progress in complexity. Topics include language, history, survival skills, and geography. They are unlocked based on your actions and environment.]
"So, I have to earn my education? Perfect." Jack shook his head. "Anything else I should know?"
[The lessons are interactive and include periodic tests to ensure comprehension.]
"Tests?" Jack groaned. "You're really committing to this whole 'school' thing, huh?"
[Education is critical to your success.]
Jack rolled his eyes but kept walking. The faint sound of running water soon reached his ears. Pushing through the underbrush, he emerged into a clearing where a crystal-clear spring bubbled from the ground. Relief washed over him.
He knelt by the water, cupping his hands to drink. The cool, refreshing liquid soothed his parched throat, grounding him in the moment. For the first time since waking, he let the enormity of his situation sink in.
Twelve years old. Alone on a tropical island. Guided by a System that felt as much a leash as a lifeline.
"Well, Koa," Jack said softly, staring at his reflection in the water, "I guess this is home for now."
The System didn't respond, but its presence lingered—calm, steady, watchful. Despite everything, Jack felt a flicker of hope. It wasn't much, but it was enough.
And for now, that would have to do.