Waking up inside a cocoon, surrounded by an unfamiliar fluid, brought forth a truly unexpected sensation, especially after the cataclysmic impact of multiple moons on my planet. I found myself trapped, bewildered, and disoriented, still aware of the presence of limbs and the rhythmic pulsation of a heartbeat. Yet, there was an intriguing peculiarity to this rhythm – it was not just one heartbeat, but two?

How could such an inexplicable phenomenon occur? And what was the nature of this enigmatic liquid that sustained my breath? These questions swirled in my mind as I grappled to comprehend this newfound reality.

My mind was tormented by these thoughts until I resolved to break free from my confinement. Yet, I soon discovered that my body was too feeble to even lift a single limb. As I examined my newfound appendages, barely able to move their flexible parts, a startling realization washed over me—I was no longer human, but some kind of creature. Strangely, my mind felt clear and accepting of these changes.

After remaining still for a while, I suddenly noticed a blinking icon in the corner of my closed eyelids. It bore a resemblance to something from a video game, so I attempted to mentally click it, but there was no response. Exhausted from several minutes of futile attempts to find an escape, my thoughts grew hazy, and I eventually succumbed to sleep.

*22 hours later*

I was jolted awake by a sudden ringing, feeling disoriented about its origin and whereabouts. As I tried to shift, I realized I was still unable to move, until a translucent screen materialized in my mind, revealing astounding information.

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Name: Demetrius Grey

Race: Dragmmoth

Grade: A

Faction: Beast Demi-human/Monster

Age: 70 years

Titles: None

Level: 0 (0%)

Class: None

Health: 600/600

Stamina: 600/600

Mana: 600/600

Condition: Healthy

Strength: 30

Constitution: 30

Intelligence: 30

Dexterity: 30

Agility: 30

Spirit: 30

Free Stat Points: 0

Innate Racial Skills:

Dragmmoth Breath: A unique elemental breath attack based on a Dragmmoth elemental affinities.

Elemental Resistance: Provides 15% resistance against all elements.

Hardened Body: The Dragmmoth possess a unique combination of fur and scales, granting them a 15% reduction in physical damage from all sources.

Dragmmoth Aura: An intimidating aura that instills fear in weaker opponents. Other uses vary.

Enhanced Reflexes: Heightened reaction speed.

Enhanced Memory: Improved memory retention for long-lived species.

Primal Senses: Enhanced utilization of the five senses. It also activates the hidden ability sixth sense at random.

Growth boost: increases class progression speed by 15%.

High Mana Affinity: Exceptional proficiency in mana manipulation.

Elemental Affinities: Ice, Wood, Water, Earth, Wind.

Origin Reversion: ???, ??? (Unidentifiable Skill, May activate if conditions are met).

Acquired Skills:

Mmoth Language (Lv: Max): A language unique to the current continent. Skill grant’s a basic understanding and usage of the language.

Messages: 1 message

Inventory: 6 slots

Slot 1: Bag of Seeds

Slot 2: Book of the Basics

Slot 3: Settlement Seed (Unknown)

Slot 4: Empty

Slot 5: Empty

Slot 6: Empty

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After while, I averted my gaze from the status screen, feeling a mixture of curiosity and anticipation. It was surprisingly unsurprising that I had undergone a peculiar transformation, as if the universe had conspired to bring me to this moment. However, what truly astonished me was finding myself transported into an entirely new world, one that seemed to exist in the realm of dreams or perhaps a virtual reality game.

Curiously, as I took in my surroundings, I felt no discomfort in my body; in fact, it felt as though this was the vessel I had been destined for all along. Every fiber of my being resonated with a sense of belonging, as if I had finally found my place in this extraordinary realm. There was no mental or physical rejection, just a profound sense of familiarity and acceptance.

In the midst of this bewildering experience, a glimmer of curiosity caught my attention - a message bar indicating an unread message. Intrigued, I mentally accessed it, eager to uncover the contents that awaited me in this new world of possibilities.

"Welcome to the realm of Astrarah, a greater new world. You might be curious about my identity; well, I am the divine overseer, entrusted with managing the intricate workings of this realm, as decreed by the higher deities. This automated message is intended for those who have recently transitioned."

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Reading this provided me with some insight into the world that would become my new home. It became apparent that there existed multiple gods, some referred to as greater gods. The fact that they entrusted a minor god with such tasks suggested that this occurrence was not unprecedented, and it hinted at the existence of higher or lower realms. The message was automated, implying that I was not the sole individual sent to this new world; perhaps even everyone from my previous world had found themselves here. I chose to halt my internal musings and continued perusing the text.

"Now, you have received this message because you have been randomly bestowed with the rank of an A-class mortal. This is the most prestigious status that any newcomers to this world can attain through a random selection. After your previous world was annihilated, your consciousness and souls were repurposed for more meaningful endeavors in this realm, and they were modified to facilitate a smooth transition. The world of Astrarah is currently in its nascent stage of development and is perpetually in need of fresh blood. Therefore, inhabitants from obliterated worlds are brought here to revive extinct species and populate the ever-expanding greater realms."

As the world was in its early stages, I couldn't help but feel intrigued. It hadn't yet succumbed to the pollution caused by its inhabitants, offering a glimpse of untouched nature and clean air outside of this cocoon. Blessed with an A-ranked body, I am to embark on this new life with great potential. Regardless of the changes made to me, I embraced the feeling of rejuvenation and ignored any uncertainties. Compared to the chaotic existence of humans, this couldn't be anything but a positive transformation.

"The local inhabitants have been informed of your arrival and are ready to welcome you. A starter pack has been delivered, and a role in this world has been assigned to you. Work diligently and relish in your newfound life. Oh, I almost forgot to mention, the stronger the race you begin with, the more challenging the starting environment. Best of luck!"

I was left perplexed by the final sentences. What did it mean by starting in an unfavorable environment? Were there lurking monsters or was the terrain simply dreadful? Were the available resources scarce? These questions lingered in my mind as the message panel faded and mysteriously erased itself. My thoughts were abruptly interrupted by the sound of the cocoon shattering, releasing me and revealing my transformed self to the new world.

As I opened my eyes for the first time, my gaze fell upon a tent-like structure crafted from what appeared to be hide and wool. Gradually, strength returned to my body, empowering me to move with ease.

Taking a moment to survey my new surroundings, I found emptiness within the tent, compelling me to venture outside and explore this unfamiliar realm. Though instinct guided my movements, my first action was to wag my tail, discovering a seamless coordination akin to that of my limbs. Peering down at my own form, I beheld a striking fusion of scales and thick fur, leaving me uncertain of my identity as either a mammal or reptile.

My hands, adorned with sharp yet supple claws, yearned to explore beyond the confines of the tent. As I took a step towards the tent's entrance, I was met with an endless expanse of snow, accompanied by a chilly gust that penetrated my fully exposed body, making me acutely aware of my nudity. Surrounding me were several rows of tents, similar to the one I had just exited.

While the sight of the snow held varied implications, I refused to allow such a circumstance to dampen my spirits. Stepping out into the open, I inhaled deeply, allowing the crisp air to fill my lungs, relishing in the beauty of nature despite the icy winds that nipped at me.

"Hey, hey," I heard a voice near me. Opening my eyes, I saw an elegant lady who seemed to be some kind of beast kin rather than human. She was adorned in a thick black fur coat, possibly crafted from an exotic animal. Her beauty was so captivating that I failed to notice the change stirring within me.

"Ahem, I appreciate your admiration, but it would be wise to get dressed," the lady suddenly remarked, leaving me momentarily confused. It was then that I glanced down and noticed my undeniable arousal. My embarrassment was overwhelming, as such a display was highly unseemly. She graciously handed me some substantial hide garments and a thick fur looking coat, guiding me towards a larger tent where a group of people had gathered.

"Ah, finally, the gods have blessed the black furred tribe with a Dragmmoth," a muscular man declared, instantly capturing my full attention. His countenance was peculiar, though no stranger than my own reflection that I had studied earlier with my claws.

"What do you mean?" I inquired, perplexed by the significance of his words.

"Please, have a seat. This will require some explanation. Oh, I almost forgot to introduce myself. I am Kali of the Black Furred Hummoth tribe" the lady, who had caused my arousal, revealed.

"I am Demetrius Grey, but you can call me Demi for short," I replied, taking a seat on the floor, following the example of everyone else. It was challenging to find a comfortable position with my large tail, but coiling it around me proved to be a suitable solution.

"Now, let the meeting commence," an older, demi-human male spoke up. It was evident from the silver strands that framed his face that he was of more advanced years or so I think.

"Welcome to Astrarah, newcomer. I am the temporary tribe chief of the Black Furred Hummoth tribe, Elder Yrliann. As per tradition and the role bestowed upon you by the world, I will now transfer the tribe chief title to you, Demetrius Grey," the elder announced. I sat there in shock and bewilderment, struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events. I hardly knew how to respond to his proclamation.

*Ding*

*Title acquired: "Tribe Chief"*

Settlement seed now available for use

A series of notifications echoed in my mind, further adding to the chaos within. Still in shock, I asked, "What does this mean?" Kali replied, and I turned my attention to her, ready to listen.

"The Dragmmoth is a superior species among us Hummoths, particularly within the black-furred Hummoth tribe. Historically, a Dragmmoth has always led the tribe. This holds true for all Hummoth species," Kali explained, before continuing.

"However, the our tribe has been without a leader for a long time, causing other tribes to perceive us as weak. This led to a battle that decimated our numbers to a mere 1000. We were then forced to flee the fertile lands and have since settled in this wasteland. Now, there are only 889 black-furred Hummoths remaining in all of Astrarah, and you, as the only black-furred Dragmmoth bestowed upon our tribe by the gods, have been chosen for this role. While it is based on tradition, it is not obligatory for you to accept. It is merely a recommendation from the world to the new settlers."

In shock, I realized why the deity had foretold a terrible start for me and why my role had already been determined. Even if I declined the position, I would still be a prime target for other tribes as a rare black-furred Dragmmoth.

"How dire is this place?" I inadvertently muttered. Kali heard me and replied.

"It snows for about 8 months out of the year, spanning over 18 months. However, the other seasons aren't as harsh," she said, her words further deepening my despair.

Curiosity compelled me to ask, "How far along are we in winter? How well-stocked are we on food? And how many days are there in a month?" Unbeknownst to me, I had unconsciously assumed the role of a leader, perhaps influenced by the countless hours spent playing civilization-building games and interacting with those world inhabitants.

"A bit over two months into winter, with approximately 60 days in a month. We have about 4 months' worth of food, consisting of grain and meat," she replied. It sounded like a substantial amount, but I had no knowledge of how much each person consumed daily, and it was evidently not enough.

Suddenly, a clearing of the throat by elder Yrliann snapped me out of my thoughts. Only then did I realize that everyone in the room was fixated on me.

"Apologies," I expressed, addressing everyone in the room.

"Chief, it's alright," Yrliann assured, and we proceeded to delve into discussions about various aspects of the world that I had been oblivious to.

"Am I the only newcomer here and are there any countries, zones, cities?" I inquired.

"You are the only newcomer at least among the tribe of black furred Hummoth's. There are only Tribes within the world of Astrarah. I have no knowledge of this zone thing" Kali responded, leaving me with mixed emotions.

"Then where did the other newcomers go?" I asked again.

"I know that all newcomers are scattered across the world among various tribes and species. Most of the time, they are accompanied by family members and assigned roles to ease their transition into their respective spawn points. Weren't you informed by the system?" Elder Yrliann replied, posing a question in return.

This explanation shed light on why I, as an orphan, was likely sent alone. Being the sole newcomer in this tribe also indicated that the world was incredibly vast, with no established countries or zones, only warring tribes. The system did mention that the world was in its early stages.

"No, but I did receive a book," I replied. Elder Yrliann's earlier response hinted that the Hummoths and Dragmmoths may have been newcomers at some point.

I also learned that being the tribe chief didn't grant absolute authority, as that would be unwise to entrust such power to a stranger, even if recommended by a god. Decision-making would revolve around a council of elders, with the village chief having the most influential voice. The job wasn't bad and came with its benefits.

As the meeting drew to a close, a sudden wave of emotions washed over me at the thought of the responsibility now given to me. The lives of 889 individuals were now entrusted to my care, and if I included myself, that number rose to 890.

Following the conclusion of the meeting, I was escorted to a grand tent, designated as my private chamber. Left to my own thoughts, I delved into the book of the basics from my inventory, seeking to deepen my understanding of the world before embarking on my next course of action.