I was awoken not by the bright rays of the sun or the gentle and kind voice of my wife Alyssa. No, instead it was the robotic and surprisingly loud voice of System.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Arise user, you have precious little time.

Something shocked my side making me jolt up slightly shaking the nest beneath me due to the sudden and strong movement. I looked to my right only to see that the sun hasn't even risen over the horizon. Everyone else was still sound asleep. Arlin was holding tiny Wystan to his chest as they used Ariel as a pillow. Voytek was lying on his back and even though he was in his tiny form he was snoring loudly. And Alyssa was next to me seemingly unbothered by the movement I did.

Why did you wake me up? It's only 5:32, so I still have at least one or two more hours to sleep. Also what was that shock at my side?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: I'm trying to increase you and your group's survival chance on the upcoming journey. And the shock was only to ensure you would not return to sleep. Now, please hurry and prepare the backpack I've made you yesterday.

Alright, alright, give me a second I'm not used to waking up this early.

I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes as my body slowly gained enough energy to get up. I stretched my body making loud pops echo throughout our home.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Now that you're fully awake you need to line the backpack with the leftover pelt to form some insulation. Then make sure to pack enough food for you, Alyssa and Arlin the journey will be long and food may be scarce.

I walked out of the room making sure not to step too heavily as to not wake anyone up due to my stomping.

How much food will we need?

I made it to the room I left the giant wooden backpack in which I promptly picked up and moved to where we ate.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: At least a weeks worth just to be safe especially for, Arlin. I don't imagine too much vegetation will be available in the cold temperatures of the mountain pass. And the ones that will be available might not taste or fill you as well as the vegetation here.

Really, what will it taste like?

There was plenty of cooked meat leftover, so I set the pack down and opened the top allowing me to see how much space is available to store things. It was actually very spacious with enough room to probably fit up to five people.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: I imagine it would be tasteless, cold and crunchy. Oh, I must give you the pelt to line the backpack.

A giant pelt soon manifested on top of the backpack slightly sinking into it.

So, do I just stuff it in and then put some food in there?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Yes, after all we picked the warmest and thickest pelt that could be found within this jungle. It should hold in the heat enough to keep the contents warm, but not enough to kill anything alive within.

I stuffed the pelt into the backpack making sure it covered the walls and bottom of the pack. With the pack now lined with a soft warm layer of insulation I went and grabbed several pieces of cooked meat.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Before you place them within the backpack use the giant leaves to wrap them up.

Good idea.

I stacked about thirty slices of cooked meat on a nearby leaf we used as plates and used another one to cover it.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Now wrap it tightly with the leftover vines from yesterday.

Just like with the pelt a bundle of vines manifested on the ground in front of us.  I grabbed them and gently, but firmly wrapped it around the leaves making sure there were no open spaces in the leaves. Once they were tightly hugging the leaf covering I made a giant knot on top. But before I could place the meat inside the backpack a plank of wood manifested in my hand.

Um, what's this for?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Place it straight down the middle of the backpack to make two equal sides. You'll understand why later.

Confused I placed the plank straight down the middle of the backpack making two different sides.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Well done user, you have secured Arlin's source of food which should last a week or two. Now we may put some fruits and other vegetation within the pack for you and your wife. Please place all edible things on the left side of the backpack.

I placed the now covered meat on the left side of the backpack before picking up several handfuls of fruits and plants and storing them next to the meat.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Now you're ready to enter the freezing cold. It's currently 5:50 the temperatures should be bearable for Alyssa and Arlin until 10:00.

Is that the reason you're waking us up early?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Yes, the mountains will block the majority of the sun from shining into the pass. And once you do exit the pass there's still the tundra on the other side you need to cross as well.

This is going to be a long journey, but hopefully it will be somewhat eventful.

I closed the backpack before securing it to my back which surprisingly wasn't heavy or uncomfortable to wear. I walked back to where everyone was sleeping letting my footsteps slightly shake the ground as I walked.

Are you sure there will be apes on the other side of the pass willing to join us?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: That I do not know, but it wouldn't hurt to investigate.

We made it back to where everyone was sleeping peacefully. I raised my right hand and slapped the ground not enough to break it, but just enough to shake the entire tree and cause a loud bang to ring out for miles. Voytek was the first one up getting into a fighting position as he frantically looked around.

Voytek: Jesteśmy atakowani!

His yell along with the noise I made caused Ariel to jump up frightened launching Arlin and Wystan in the process. Not wanting them hurt I stood up and outstretched my arms bringing them into a gentle hug as I caught them. Alyssa seemed unbothered by the noise as she merely sat up stretching and rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

Alyssa: (Morning already?)

Seeing no danger Voytek relaxed and rubbed his big eyes with his tiny paws letting out a small yawn.

Voytek: Oh, I thought we were under attack.

I looked up to see Ariel clinging onto the high branches of the tree as her eyes darted around us terrified.

Ariel: What was that noise?!

Arlin: I'd l-like to know a-as well.

I gently placed Arlin back down as Wystan morphed out of his rock form.

Wystan: Morning everyone. How did you all sleep? I slept like a rock.

Devan: (Apologies everyone I slapped the ground to wake all of you up, but I didn't expect it to be so effective.)

Ariel: T-That was all from a slap?

I felt someone hug my right arm and rub their head ony fur. It turned out to be Alyssa who seemed to still be slightly tired.

Alyssa: (My husband is strong isn't he?)

Voytek: Indeed his strength is unrivaled, but what did you wake us up this early for, małpa?

I sat down and used my other arm to bring Alyssa into a hug making her sigh in comfort. Ariel dropped down from the branches landing perfectly on her feet as Voytek walked up beside her in his original form.

Devan: (I woke you all up to inform you to get ready. We leave in a few minutes,  so Wystan, Arlin and Alyssa please get ready. Voytek and Ariel I leave the safety of our home in your paws.)

They all saluted before hurrying to prepare their things for our long and extremely cold journey. Alyssa however didn't have anything to prepare so she just snuggled deeper into my fur before taking a little nap as we waited.

- .. -- . / ... -.- .. .--.

We were now standing on the edge of the tree ready to depart with Voytek and Ariel seeing us off. I had the giant backpack strapped tightly to my back along with my katana. Alyssa was sitting on my shoulders with Wystan while I held Arlin securely in my arms. We all ate breakfast together one last time to have one more great memory together.

Voytek: I'll miss you, małpa.

Ariel: As will I, Devan.

Wystan climbed onto my head and waved both his hands towards Voytek.

Wystan: Farewell, Voytek!

Voytek: Farewell, Skała. Remember the battle crys, songs and attacks I taught you.

Wystan: I will!

Ariel: Be safe all of you and good luck.

Devan: We will. Well time to go, take care.

They waved goodbye as I held on tight to Arlin and jumped off the tree towards our destination. Everyone held on tight to me as we began to rapidly descend towards the edge of the jungle. I could see several creatures scatter and run away not wanting to be crushed by an incoming 1000lb silverback.

*BOOM*

My landing caused the entire area to shake launching trees and boulders away from the area of impact as the ground caved beneath my feet. A large deep crater was now formed revealing some caves and clusters of glowing crystals everywhere.

I ripped a nearby one out of the ground and held it up to my face inspecting the strange rock. A slight tingling feeling spread across my hand when I touched it and it felt like it was pulsating.

Devan: What are these, crystals?

Arlin: Oh, that's taaffeite!

We all looked at Arlin who blushed and slightly hid in my arms embarrassed at the sudden attention.

Devan: What's taaffeite?

He lifted his head slightly, so we could hear him the blush on his face becoming even brighter.

Arlin: I-It's a magic infused purple c-crystal that is used to make m-magical artifacts, w-weapons, or armor. I read a-about it from an o-old book I lost a f-few years ago.

Devan: Oh, how strong is it?

He looked deep in thought as his eyes stared at the fur on my arm for a few seconds before he gave his answer.

Arlin: I-I don't remember, b-but it's said to be much stronger t-than steel, iron, a-and many other c-crystals.

Unrefined Taaffeite crystal
These crystals are holding high concentrations of magic within making them the perfect ingredients to make magical items. Although, none of the other races seem to know the existence of these magical crystals. You'll need to experiment with it to find out it's different properties.

I dropped it back to the ground, but before it even touched the dirt it began to float.

That's pretty cool.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: I suggest covering this crater, user.

Hm, why?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: We don't have the means to create anything with these crystals. Based on from what Arlin said and the description the crystal had I'm assuming these are very rare minerals. Minerals I'm certain will get the attention of every single race.

Good idea I just hope I can cover this giant crater.

As I was about to carry us all out of the hole Wystan jumped off my head and landed next to the piece of crystal I ripped out.

Wystan: Hmm, I wonder what it tastes like.

He proceeded to grab a piece and place it in his small mouth before taking a bite out of it. In about three seconds Wystan spat out the crystal piece heaving out some black goo right after. I picked him up and began to rub his small back with my thumb trying to soothe his upset tummy.

Devan: Wystan, are you alright?

Wystan: Yes, it just tasted terrible and weird. But I think I'm okay now.

Devan: Alright well we need to move on now.

I handed Wystan over to Alyssa who began to make sure he was alright as I  placed my hand on the ground. I closed my eyes and began to concentrate on moving the earth around us.

Arlin: W-What's he doing?

Wystan: Moving the ground around us to his will.

Alyssa: (Oh, cool. Wait what--)

We began to rise up out of the hole on a pillar of dirt and stone as the ground began to seal the giant crater I made. In a few seconds all evidence of my landing was gone along with a few unfortunate trees. Arlin looked around in a childlike wonder as Alyssa had a smile on her face.

Arlin: No w-way, you're a-amazing...

Alyssa: (At this point I'm not that surprised just highly impressed by the things you can do.)

Wystan: Yes, my master is the greatest isn't he?

I got slightly flustered by all the praise I was getting, but I composed myself and gave them a gentle smile to show my thanks.

Devan: (Thank you, but now we really have to go.)

I began to quickly walk north toward the mountains slightly excited for the upcoming journey. We passed several animals who followed after us ranging from tiny mice to giant deers. Even a few birds flew overhead letting out various calls as they flew by. One landed on my head with Wystan and another on Alyssa's shoulder.

I feel like a Disney princess.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Except this time it's reality and you're a king.

A deer's call echoed as more animals appeared and a notification popped into my vision.

Ally of prey --> Ally of prey II
Instead of running in fear animals that are considered prey will rally to your side to assist you in battle. You ever see a worm kill something? No? Well now you can.

The notification closed as we came across a dirt road leading north, so I followed it causing the other animals to follow as well. A deer was running to our right allowing Arlin to get a good look at it.

Arlin: I-I was n-never able to get t-this close to a deer w-without it r-running away. W-Why are t-they following u-us?

Wystan: They know who their king and queen are.

Arlin: O-Oh, right I f-forgot Devan and A-Alyssa rule that e-entire jungle.

A few birds let out a few calls before flying away along with some of the animals with less warm fur. I was confused until a cool breeze hit us.

The mountain pass was now in front of us with a giant cloud of fog covering the entrance. As we were getting closer the other animals began to stop and turn around unable to deal with the cold winds.

We aren't even that close, yet the cold is still affecting them.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: It will only get colder once we travel through the pass.

Now only the bigger deer remained with us, but I could see them shivering from the increasing cold. Not wanting them to suffer in the cold I skidded to a stop kicking up some permafrost. The deer stopped as well slightly panting since we ran nonstop all the way here.

Devan: (Thank you for following us, but go home none of you will survive this extreme cold.)

The deer looked at each other before turning back to us and bowing their heads. They soon left back down the path and towards the jungle as I turned back to the mountains.

Alyssa: (I'll miss those creatures.)

Arlin: I-I hope we'll m-meet more k-kind animals on o-our journey.

Wystan: I'm pretty sure those birds tried to eat me when none of you were looking.

We all slightly laughed at that as we continued to walk down the path, but I noticed something odd about the path. There was some wheel tracks in the dirt and from the looks of it I'd say they were made recently.

I think either a single wagon or a caravan are currently farther down the road.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Proceed with caution, user. Let's hope these humans aren't like the ones of the Oloikith kingdom.

Oh, by the way how is Bellmount doing after our great escape? They still want to wage war?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: You are currently still at war with them, so I say yes. It seems your escape has decreased your relationship with them even further.

I don't think they'll ever want to be my ally.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Well they may just need some "convincing".

What do you mean by that?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: I'll explain more at a different time in the near future.

Our conversation ended with that as I went back to observing our surroundings. The cold began to gradually increase causing Arlin to slightly bury himself in the fur on my arm.

Alyssa: (Hey, honey?)

Devan: (Yes?)

Alyssa: (Will it get colder the deeper we head in?)

Devan: (Yes, but don't worry if you get too cold I can just hug you and you'll warm right back up.)

I looked up at her to see a smile on her face before she wrapped her arms around my neck in a hug.

Alyssa: (But what about you? Won't you be cold?)

I began to walk upright since one of my arms was holding Arlin and I was now using my other hand to rub Alyssa's head.

Devan: (I'm glad you worry about me, but trust me I won't be bothered by the cold one bit.)

She leaned into my palm before I put my hand back down and continued to knuckle-walk once again. Wystan translated our conversation for Alrin who was looking between the two of us confused. Wystan soon began to sing quietly to himself as we all silently listened to his voice.

Wystan: Nadeszła na początku września
Wojna nieznana światu
Bez ostrzeżenia, że ​​weszli na ten kraj
To jest chronione polską ręką
Chyba że masz czterdzieści do jednego
Twoja siła wkrótce zostanie cofnięta, cofnięta

The wind didn't seem that cold anymore instead it actually felt slightly warm. I walked a little bit faster making the entrance to the mountain pass get closer, but the thick fog increased as well. And as we got closer I could now clearly see that it wasn't fog instead it was snow being blown around violently.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: The strong winds and snow act as the gateway blocking entry and exit. Right now it's weak, so you should be able to cross with no major problem.

Devan: (Everyone hold onto me tightly we're going to push through the wind.)

I began to walk towards the violent storm as everyone held on tight like I asked. Wystan stopped his singing making the wind seem colder and stronger.

What do you mean it's a "gateway"?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: During the early day it's winds are calmer and the temperatures  are bearable.

When I came into contact with the wind I had to bury my feet into the ground to not be knocked around by it. I began to push through the wind as Arlin buried himself deeper into my arm already being affected by the cold. The snow blinded us from seeing too far ahead, but even with my vision practically gone I continued to push on.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: But at midday the winds become so strong you'll be crushed against the sides of the mountains if you attempted to cross.

We were almost on the other side when a strong burst of wind pushed me back. Alyssa leaned forward and whispered in my ear as I continued to push against the strong winds.

Alyssa: (You're doing great, Devan. We're almost there. We believe in you.)

Although the winds continued to push me back her encouragement made me determined to push on. And soon I got us to the other side where the wind stopped. I turned back to the entrance to see the wind and snow still blowing violently.

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Where the winds come from no one knows, but a few tales say the gods themselves made this barrier.

But why would the gods put a barrier here?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: That is something you'll have to find out yourself, user. Also welcome to the cold tundras.

!Quest complete!
+5 skill points

I need to spend the skill points I gathered at some point.

I faced forward and looked up seeing the tundras we need to cross. It was vast and covered in a heavy blanket of snow.

Before I could check on everyone two new notification appeared.

Map updated

!New Quest!
Brave The Cold
Getting through the pass was the easy part now the real challenge begins. Almost no vegetation can grow in these temperatures, but many creatures somehow prosper here. Get to the other side of the tundras to find some apes.
Objective: Cross into the land beyond the tundras.
Reward: +1 recruitment point
Hidden objective: ???

A hidden objective?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: Occasionally you'll find a character of interest in certain areas with whom you can interact with.

With that new bit of information I went back to making sure everyone was uninjured.

Devan: (Are all of you alright?)

Alyssa: (I'm okay, but are you alright? You had to push through a lot of cold strong wind.)

Devan: (Yes, I'm fine. It wasn't too bad just unexpected.) Are you okay, Arlin?

Arlin: Y-Yeah I-I'm okay your fur p-protected me, s-so thank you.

Devan: Good, how about you Wystan?

No response. I began to slightly panic since he could've easily been swept away in the wind and we wouldn't of noticed.

Devan: Wystan?

No response. Soon everyone began to panic as they looked around for Wystan. The lid of my backpack was pushed up and out popped Wystan who looked at all of our panicking faces

Wystan: What's the matter? Did someone get hurt?!

We all stopped and looked at Wystan who got out and closed the lid.

Arlin/Devan/Alyssa: W-Wystan!/Wystan!/(Wystan!)

He was soon enveloped in a hug by all of us which he gladly accepted and returned. After a few more minutes of hugging we started our journey through the tundra determined to get--

*Yelp*

*Growl*

What sounded like a wolf yelping in pain followed by a growl attracted our attention. I walked in the direction the noise was coming from as everyone prepared themselves for whatever was ahead of us. The snow crunched as my feet and hand sunk deep into it and in a few seconds we saw the source of the commotion.

It was a pack of ten wolves surrounding a creature we couldn't really see since one of the wolves pounced on it.

What's happening?

S.Y.S.T.E.M: A hunt.

*Yelp*

The wolf that pounced had it's stomach ripped open by the creature's sharp claws before being thrown to the ground to bleed to death. The creature was a female snow leopard that had blood coming from her shoulder and left leg.

She seemed tired and the wolves seemed to notice as well since they looked about ready to pounce. I decided to...

I have midterms tomorrow and Thursday, so that's why it took so long to update this. Anyway enough about me this is the potential love interest. I say "potential" because you decide if you want them. The next one might be male.

Anyway, bye.♪┏(・o･)┛♪┗ ( ･o･) ┓♪