The dense jungle canopy of Aru'Mata shrouded the land in perpetual twilight, the thick vines and towering palm trees casting shifting shadows over the moss-covered ruins scattered throughout the island. The air buzzed with the distant chittering of insects, the occasional rustling of foliage signaling the presence of unseen creatures. High above, on a thick branch of an ancient tree, a young ape named Kuro stirred from his slumber.
His fur, a deep shade of chestnut, ruffled slightly as he yawned, stretching his muscular arms before leaping down to the jungle floor. Kuro belonged to the Maw'Tanu, an intelligent race of apes that ruled over the island with strict hierarchy and tradition. Unlike the humans and other races scattered across Varadain, the Maw'Tanu did not rely on weapons forged by man or the spells of scholars—they lived by their primal instincts and raw strength.
Yet, today was different.
As soon as Kuro's feet touched the damp soil, a sudden wave of dizziness washed over him, and a glowing screen appeared before his eyes.
SYSTEM ACTIVATED
Welcome, Kuro of the Maw'Tanu.
You have been chosen by the System.
Through effort and experience, you may grow beyond your limits.
Survive, adapt, and thrive.
A chill ran down Kuro's spine. He blinked several times, but the floating text remained, defying logic. He had heard of humans with strange abilities, those who wielded fire, lightning, and steel, but never had he witnessed something like this within his own kind.
More text appeared.
Status Window Unlocked
Would you like to view your status? (Y/N)
Kuro hesitated before thinking Yes, and instantly, a detailed display materialized.
Name: Kuro
Race: Maw'Tanu Ape
Level: 1
Health: 100/100
Stamina: 80/80
Mana: 10/10
Strength: 5
Dexterity: 5
Endurance: 4
Intelligence: 2
Wisdom: 1
Skills: None
Titles: [Ape of Aru'Mata]
Kuro frowned. He barely understood what any of this meant, but instinctively, he knew it was significant. Something had changed within him. The jungle around him suddenly felt… different. The rustling leaves, the distant howl of a jaguar, the damp scent of morning dew—everything seemed sharper.
He clenched his fists, feeling a surge of energy unlike anything before. He had always been strong, but this felt like something more.
A notification appeared.
New Quest: Trial of Survival
The jungle is unforgiving. Prove yourself as a true Maw'Tanu by surviving one full day without aid. Hunt, gather, and defend yourself against the dangers of Aru'Mata.
Objective: Survive for 24 hours.
Reward: +50 Experience, Basic Combat Skill Unlocked.
Kuro gritted his teeth. The System wanted him to grow stronger, but the jungle was no playground. The island was home to dangerous beasts—venomous serpents, towering lizards, and worst of all, the Tzalik, a savage tribe of exiled Maw'Tanu who had embraced bloodshed and dark magic.
But fear was not in his nature. If this "System" wanted him to prove himself, then so be it.
With a deep breath, Kuro sprang into action, his mind set on survival. He would learn, he would fight, and he would conquer whatever challenges lay ahead.
This was only the beginning.