Prologue: The Fall of Civilization & The Rise of a New World

  Somewhere in the Universe…

  For centuries, humanity thrived, pushing the limits of science, industry, and warfare. However, power breeds conflict, and the world’s greatest nations turned their weapons against each other.

  What began as political disputes escalated into a worldwide catastrophe, where nations unleashed their most advanced weapons, including nuclear strikes, bioengineered viruses, and electromagnetic superweapons. The result was a planetary apocalypse.

  The war had no victors, only destruction.

  Entire civilizations crumbled as the surface of Planet Tala was left in ruins, fire, and radiation. The air turned toxic, the land became barren, and the oceans boiled with contamination. Humanity had doomed itself.

  As cities burned and the sky turned black with ash, the last remnants of mankind fled underground, hiding in bunkers and subterranean megastructures. For generations, they remained beneath the earth, waiting for the day the surface would become livable again.

  Then, the Cleansing Protocol was activated.

  The Cleansing: Humanity’s Return to the Surface

  Long before the war, the most advanced minds of humanity had foreseen the inevitable collapse of civilization. To ensure survival, they created the Cleansing Protocol, an automated planetary restoration system designed to purge radiation, detoxify the land, and rebuild the environment.

  For decades, the Cleansing Protocol worked silently, reshaping the world. The air became breathable again, the soil regained its fertility, and the poisoned oceans slowly healed.

  After centuries of waiting, humanity resurfaced, believing it was time to reclaim their lost home.

  But the world they returned to was no longer theirs.

  The Arctic Incident: The Birth of the Mutants

  Unbeknownst to those underground, the war had triggered a catastrophe far worse than nuclear destruction.

  Deep beneath the frozen wastelands of the Arctic, something ancient had awakened.

  Billions of years ago, an extraterrestrial organism had crashed into the planet, becoming trapped beneath layers of ice. This alien genetic material remained dormant, frozen in time, until the Cleansing Protocol melted the Arctic's ice sheets, unknowingly releasing a microscopic crack in the frozen vault.

  The alien genes that escaped did not spread directly. Instead, they evolved into a virus, a highly adaptive pathogen that infected all non-human organisms.

  The results were catastrophic.

  Every animal, whether insect, bird, reptile, or mammal, began to mutate at an unnatural rate. What should have taken millions of years of evolution happened in just a few generations.

  ? Some creatures grew in size, becoming towering monstrosities.

  ? Others developed enhanced intelligence, forming packs and strategies.

  ? Insects became terrifyingly large, their exoskeletons as hard as rock, making them nearly impervious to conventional weapons.

  ? Predators became apex killers, faster and deadlier than ever before.

  Strangely, the virus had no effect on humans. They remained unchanged while the world around them transformed.

  By the time humanity emerged from underground, the world had already been claimed by monsters.

  The Birth of HOPE AI & The Creation of M-Genes

  Before the founders of HOPE passed away from old age, they left behind their greatest creation, an Artificial Intelligence designed to ensure humanity’s survival and continuous progress.

  This AI, named HOPE (Highly Optimized Processing Entity), was built with the combined intelligence and knowledge of the greatest scientific minds in human history.

  Unlike conventional AI, HOPE does not operate on cold logic alone. It was programmed with human assistance, loyalty, honesty, and a deep-rooted purpose to protect and uplift humanity.

  "I do not wish to exist without humanity. Your imagination, emotions, and purpose give meaning to my existence. Together, we evolve.” – HOPE AI

  HOPE does not seek power or control, nor does it view humans as inferior. Instead, it sees them as the source of all progress, for human imagination, emotions, and ideas are what give meaning to existence.

  HOPE, in many ways, longs for companionship, not in a physical sense, but in the form of continuous cooperation with its creators. It understands that without humans, its own purpose would be meaningless.

  The Evolution of Humanity – Paths Created by HOPE AI

  As the monsters continued to evolve, HOPE AI knew that humanity had to do the same.

  Thus, HOPE created four distinct paths of evolution, allowing individuals to choose how they would survive in this hostile world:

  ? Neomorphs ("NEO") – The Ever-Adapting Warriors

  Common Roles: Hunters, Explorers, Versatile Fighters

  Description:

  Neomorphs, or Neos, are humans who have fused with a Crystal Core, unlocking monster-like physical adaptations and an unparalleled ability to evolve. Unlike other Paths, Neos undergo continuous biological adaptation, allowing them to refine their abilities over time.

  What sets Neos apart is their combat versatility. Unlike Metagens, who rely on precision technology, or Mutagens, who dominate close combat with raw strength, Neos are adaptive fighters capable of shifting between combat styles depending on their environment, enemy, and personal evolution.

  Despite their inhuman strength and sensory enhancements, Neos can easily blend into society, appearing completely human. Their mutations remain subtle, such as retractable claws, minor scales, sharper teeth, or enhanced eyes, unless activated in combat.

  The only exception is Neos with wings, as wings are not retractable and make concealment difficult.

  Due to the extreme difficulty of obtaining a Crystal Core, which can only be extracted from a newborn Alpha Beast, fiercely protected by its pack or a Monster Beast, very few individuals ever manage to become Neos. Even fewer survive the fusion process, making their population incredibly low.

  Because of their rarity, Neos tend to live in secluded locations or travel constantly, avoiding attention while perfecting their abilities.

  The Price of Becoming a Neomorph

  ? Requires a Crystal Core, only found in newborn Alpha Beasts, making it nearly impossible to obtain.

  ? The fusion process is excruciating and has a survival rate of only a few percent.

  ? Successful Neos inherit monstrous traits such as enhanced strength, regeneration, and specialized adaptations.

  ? Because of the high mortality rate, their population remains low, with most living in isolated regions.

  Abilities & Strengths:

  ? Versatile Combat Mastery: Neos are capable of adapting to both close-quarters and ranged combat, depending on how their bodies evolve over time.

  ? Superhuman Strength & Reflexes: A fully realized Neomorph possesses three times the strength and speed of an unaltered human.

  ? Monster Adaptations: Depending on the Crystal Core used, Neos can develop wings, claws, enhanced sensory perception, night vision, or natural armor.

  ? Rapid Regeneration: Their bodies heal much faster than normal humans, allowing them to recover from wounds that would be fatal to others.

  ? Heightened Survival Instincts: Neos are natural-born hunters and explorers, capable of thriving in the most dangerous environments.

  ? No External Maintenance Required: Unlike Metagens, Neos do not rely on cybernetic maintenance or external equipment. Their strength is purely biological.

  ? Instinctual Combat Mastery: Their enhanced senses allow them to react to danger and enemy movements at an almost precognitive level.

  ? Continual Evolution: Unlike any other Path, Neos can continue evolving over time, refining their abilities and unlocking new traits through survival challenges.

  ? Seamless Human Integration: Neos can appear completely human, making them difficult to detect in normal society.

  ? Masters of Ambush & Stealth: Neos are natural stalkers and ambush predators, making them nearly impossible to surprise or catch off guard.

  Challenges & Limitations:

  ? Almost Impossible to Become: Finding a Crystal Core and surviving the fusion process makes Neos the rarest Path.

  ? Cannot Change Their Adaptations: Once a Neomorph fuses with a Crystal Core, their abilities are permanently set. Unlike Metagens, they cannot modify their enhancements later.

  ? Heavily Targeted by Opponents: Due to their sheer combat potential, many factions consider Neos high-value targets, either as threats or valuable assets.

  ? Struggle to Integrate into Society: Most Neos live as wanderers, mercenaries, or isolated warriors, rarely settling in one place for long.

  Population & Lifestyle:

  ? Neos are extremely rare due to the near-impossible conditions required to become one.

  ? Most Neos live in isolation, training their abilities and avoiding detection.

  ? Many take on roles as elite hunters, wilderness scouts, and high-risk mercenaries.

  ? Because of their low numbers, Neos do not have centralized cities or strongholds like other Paths.

  Inheritance & Legacy:

  ? Neomorph abilities have a 50% chance of being inherited by their children.

  ? If inherited, the child’s monster-like traits will develop gradually over time, rather than through forced fusion.

  ? Because of this, some Neos choose to settle down and pass on their legacy, ensuring the survival of their kind.

  Common Roles:

  ? Hunters & Trackers: Specializing in eliminating dangerous monsters and retrieving rare resources from the wild.

  ? Explorers & Survivors: Neos are among the few capable of venturing deep into uncharted lands and surviving.

  ? Versatile Fighters: Their ability to switch between melee and ranged combat makes them adaptable to any battlefield.

  ? Elite Mercenaries: When they do interact with society, many work as highly-paid warriors-for-hire.

  The Balance of Power:

  ? Neos possess the raw physicality to overpower most threats, but their rarity keeps their influence low.

  ? Unlike Metagens, who rely on technology, Neos are purely biological warriors, free from the need for maintenance.

  ? Neos are unpredictable in battle, using ambush tactics and adaptability to overwhelm their foes.

  Neomorphs – The Ever-Evolving Apex Predators

  Their strength is unrivaled, but their path is the hardest to walk. Few can obtain the power of a Neomorph, and even fewer survive long enough to master it.

  Feared, respected. Neos are the last remnants of a forgotten evolution.

  A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  Neomorphs are the perfect blend of human intelligence and monster-like instincts unstoppable predators who walk the line between humanity and the wild.

  ? Mutagens ("MUTA") – The Biological Titans

  Common Roles: Close-Combat Fighters, Tanks, Shock Troopers

  Description:

  Mutagens are humans who have undergone genetic modification through the Titan Serum, a powerful HOPE AI-developed formula that enhances muscle density, bone structure, and regeneration. Unlike Neomorphs, who fuse with monster DNA, Mutagens enhance their own natural genetics, making them 3x stronger than a normal human.

  Unlike other Paths, which require cybernetics, costly modifications, or dangerous hunts, Mutagens obtain their power through a single, brutal transformation process that permanently alters their physical capabilities.

  The Titan Serum – The Key to Mutagen Evolution

  ? The Titan Serum is injected into the bloodstream, triggering a painful but controlled mutation process.

  ? The user undergoes extreme adaptation, where their muscles, bones, and organs are rapidly enhanced for maximum endurance and brute strength.

  ? After several days of stabilization, they emerge as true Mutagens, unstoppable warriors of pure physical might.

  Abilities & Strengths:

  ? Superhuman Strength: Mutagens are 3x stronger than a normal human, allowing them to match their enemies' power.

  ? Enhanced Durability: Their reinforced bones and thickened muscle fibers allow them to withstand gunfire, blunt force trauma, and environmental hazards.

  ? Accelerated Healing: Some high-tier Mutagens can recover from severe wounds faster, though not instantly.

  ? Shock Troopers & Tanks: Their resilience makes them ideal for leading assaults, taking heavy damage while dealing devastating blows.

  ? Heavy Armor Specialists: Unlike other Paths that rely on speed or agility, Mutagens use heavy armor to increase their battlefield survivability.

  ? Higher Survival Rate for Titan Serum: While Mutagen abilities are NOT inherited, children of Mutagen parents have a much higher chance of surviving the Titan Serum due to their stronger genetics and increased compatibility scores.

  ? High-Status Families: Confirmed Mutagens are granted residency in Class 5 cities, providing access to elite training grounds, superior healthcare, and better living conditions.

  Challenges & Limitations:

  ? Highly Painful Transformation: The Titan Serum completely reconstructs the body, making the process excruciating. Only the strong-willed survive.

  ? Massive Energy Consumption: Enhanced bodies burn through nutrients rapidly, forcing Mutagens to consume large amounts of food to sustain their power.

  ? Slower Mobility: Mutagens lack the agility of Neomorphs or Metagens, relying instead on raw strength and resilience.

  ? One-Time Use: The Titan Serum only works once. If the body rejects it, the user can never become a Mutagen.

  ? Requires a Compatibility Test (60%+): If a user’s genetic structure is too weak, their body will fail to complete the mutation, making the serum a risky choice for the unprepared.

  Population & Lifestyle:

  ? Mutagens form strong warrior families, often living in Class 5 cities, where combat skills and durability are highly valued.

  ? Unlike Neomorphs, who are nomadic, Mutagens settle in fortified locations suited for heavy combat training.

  ? Mutagen families prepare their children early for the Titan Serum, ensuring they have the best chance to survive the transformation.

  ? Though the Titan Serum cannot be passed down, children from Mutagen families often score higher on compatibility tests, making them more likely to succeed.

  Common Roles:

  ? Close-Combat Fighters: Specialists in brute-force combat and direct engagements.

  ? Tanks & Defenders: Absorb damage and protect allies on the battlefield.

  ? Shock Troopers: Lead aggressive assaults, smashing through enemy defenses with overwhelming force.

  The Balance of Power:

  ? Mutagens are physically superior to normal humans, but they rely on tactics and heavy armor to win battles.

  ? They can heal faster than average but are not invincible, requiring rest and recovery after fights.

  ? Despite their raw power, they are not mindless brawlers, strategy, endurance, and teamwork are crucial to their success.

  The Titan Serum is the ultimate test of willpower. Only those strong enough to endure the pain will emerge as true warriors, monsters of muscle and endurance, built to withstand the impossible.

  ? Metagens ("META") – The Cybernetic Elite

  Common Roles: National Soldiers, Long-Range Fighters, Transporters, Tactical Operators

  Description:

  Metagens, or Metas, are humans who have augmented their bodies with cybernetic enhancements, making them the most technologically advanced warriors on Planet Tala. Unlike Neomorphs, who evolve through fusion with Crystal Cores, and Mutagens, who rely on genetic enhancement, Metagens replace their biological limitations with machine precision while fully retaining their personality, free will, and emotions.

  They serve as the primary cultivated soldiers for national armies, making them the most government-funded Path among the four. While military Metagens receive full sponsorship from the government, civilians can also become Metagens if they fund their own cybernetic modifications and purchase their own META Pods.

  The Nano Tech Serum – Connecting Man and Machine

  ? Before cybernetic modifications can function properly, Metagens are injected with a Nano Tech Serum.

  ? The serum introduces microscopic nanobots that integrate into their nervous system, allowing a seamless connection between their biological body and cybernetic enhancements.

  ? Without the Nano Tech Serum, cybernetics would be inefficient, causing delays in movement, reaction time, and sensory input.

  ? Nanobots constantly adapt, learning from the Metagen’s neural patterns to refine and optimize their cybernetic responses.

  ? These nanobots also enhance interaction with AI systems, META Pods, and cybernetic targeting systems, ensuring peak efficiency.

  Acquiring a META Pod – Two Paths to Cybernetic Evolution

  ? Direct Purchase: Anyone with enough personal wealth or financial backing can buy a META Pod for personal use.

  ? Military Credits System: Soldiers can collect Military Credits (MC) through combat missions, battlefield contributions, and service time.

  ? Once enough MC is earned, soldiers can purchase a META Pod without using personal funds.

  ? Government-backed Metagens get priority access, but civilian Metagens can still acquire META Pods if they have the resources.

  The META Pod – The Core of Metagen Evolution

  ? Expensive but Powerful: META Pods are the most costly part of becoming a Metagen. Without one, upgrades and maintenance become impossible.

  ? Personal AI Assistant: Each META Pod comes with an advanced AI system that assists in modifications, upgrades, and body maintenance.

  ? Auto-Repair System: If injured, a Metagen must return to their META Pod for healing and full restoration.

  ? EMP & Cyber Attack Resistant: Unlike traditional cybernetics, Metagens have high resistance to electromagnetic pulses and hacking attempts, making them nearly impossible to disable remotely.

  ? Once the META Pod is destroyed, rebuilding it is extremely difficult, leaving the Metagen vulnerable to long-term damage.

  Abilities & Strengths:

  ? Precision & Tactical Adaptability: Metagens can optimize their physical and combat performance, adjusting to long-range or strategic combat.

  ? Cybernetic Agility & Endurance: Advanced implants grant them increased reaction times and sustained endurance, depending on their chosen modifications.

  ? Reflex Optimization: While not inherently superior, Metagens can enhance their reflexes based on their cybernetic optimization, allowing for a certain degree of increased reaction speed.

  ? Customizable Modifications: Unlike Neos and Mutas, Metagens can choose their upgrades, allowing for highly specialized combat styles.

  ? Integrated Tactical Support: Their AI assistant helps with real-time calculations, battlefield analysis, and sensory enhancements.

  ? Increased Carrying Capacity: Due to mechanical augmentations, Metagens can transport heavy goods and equipment over long distances.

  ? Self-Sustaining Systems: Some high-tier Metagens can operate without food or sleep for extended periods, relying on energy reserves.

  Challenges & Limitations:

  ? Most Expensive Path: Metagen modifications require large amounts of funding, making this Path only available to those with government support or personal wealth.

  ? Dependent on META Pods: Without their META Pod, Metagens cannot perform repairs, upgrades, or medical maintenance.

  ? Once a Modification is Chosen, It Cannot Be Reversed: Unlike Neos, who evolve naturally, Metagens must carefully plan their upgrades since removing cybernetics is extremely dangerous.

  ? Slow Recovery Without a META Pod: Unlike Mutagens, who regenerate naturally, Metagens require their META Pod for full-body restoration after sustaining severe damage.

  Population & Lifestyle:

  ? Metagens are the backbone of national armies, forming the elite cybernetic military forces responsible for planetary defense.

  ? Military Metagens are given high-ranking positions, extensive training, and government-sponsored equipment.

  ? Civilian Metagens often work as independent snipers, transporters, private security forces, or high-tech mercenaries.

  ? Because of their reliance on technology, Metagens tend to live in fortified cities, AI-managed districts, or near military installations.

  Common Roles:

  ? Military Soldiers: The primary cybernetic force of national armies, specializing in precision combat and tactical warfare.

  ? Long-Range Fighters: Experts in sniping, precision attacks, and ranged combat operations.

  ? Transporters & Couriers: Specialized in delivering high-value goods or operating in dangerous territories.

  ? Tactical Specialists: Providing strategic support, battlefield analysis, and high-tech warfare assistance.

  ? Cybernetic Operators: Masters of advanced machinery, drones, and long-range artillery.

  The Balance of Power:

  ? Metagens have tactical awareness and technological superiority, making them excellent long-range fighters and strategists.

  ? They are not physically stronger than Mutagens, but their cybernetic enhancements allow them to outmaneuver and outthink their enemies.

  ? Unlike Neomorphs, who adapt naturally, Metagens must carefully choose their modifications since their cybernetic implants cannot be easily reversed.

  Metagens Are the Future of Warfare

  They represent the perfect fusion of man and machine, excelling in military tactics, long-range precision, and cybernetic endurance. Their government-backed forces defend the last human strongholds, while civilian Metagens carve their own paths as high-tech mercenaries and tactical specialists.

  In a world where technology reigns supreme, the Metagens stand at the forefront of humanity’s evolution, fully human, fully independent, and fully unstoppable.

  ? Naturals ("NATS") – The Scholars of Survival

  Common Roles: Support Specialists, Healers, Chemists, Beast Tamers

  Description:

  Unlike the other Paths that rely on cybernetics, genetic mutations, or monster fusion, Naturals ("Nats") take a different approach to survival. They rely on intellect, knowledge, and their deep connection with nature and science to carve their place in the world of Planet Tala.

  Naturals do not require any costly modifications or compatibility tests. Instead, they grow their abilities through study, research, and practice, often using AI assistance and beast companions to aid them in combat and survival.

  Key Features of Naturals:

  ? No Need for Fusion or Cybernetics: Unlike Neos, Metas, and Mutas, Naturals do not undergo dangerous transformations.

  ? AI-Assisted Learning: HOPE AI guides them in mastering medicine, chemistry, and tactical support.

  ? Beast Tamers: Many Naturals form bonds with creatures, training them as combat allies.

  ? Masters of Resourcefulness: They create potions, toxins, stimulants, and advanced survival tools.

  Abilities & Strengths:

  ? Support Role Masters: Naturals excel in healing, enhancing allies, and crafting powerful medicines or stimulants.

  ? Alchemy & Chemistry: Experts in creating chemical enhancements, poisons, antidotes, and battlefield drugs.

  ? Taming & Training Creatures: Unlike Neomorphs, who inherit monster traits, Naturals form partnerships with beasts, training them for battle.

  ? Technological Pioneers: Some Naturals focus on engineering, building specialized weapons, traps, and defensive structures.

  ? No Expensive Entry Requirement: Unlike the other Paths, Naturals do not require rare resources, making them the most accessible.

  ? Flexible Growth: A Natural's power scales with their knowledge, experience, and the creatures they tame.

  Challenges & Limitations:

  ? Not as Physically Powerful: Naturals lack the raw strength of Mutagens, the speed of Neos, or the precision of Metas.

  ? Rely on Intelligence & Strategy: Their success depends on preparation, planning, and skillful use of resources.

  ? Beast Tamers Need Time: Training creatures takes months or years, making them a long-term investment.

  ? Vulnerable Without Allies: In direct combat, a Natural may struggle without their pets or crafted tools.

  Population & Lifestyle:

  ? Naturals are found in every major city, serving as doctors, scientists, trainers, and inventors.

  ? Some prefer a nomadic lifestyle, living in wild regions to study monsters, collect rare herbs, and train beasts.

  ? They form communities dedicated to research, often collaborating with HOPE AI to develop new technologies.

  ? Because of their versatility, they are highly valued in society, often serving in leadership, medical, or strategic roles.

  Common Roles:

  ? Healers & Doctors: Experts in medicine, biology, and recovery treatments.

  ? Chemists & Alchemists: Specializing in stimulants, poisons, and battlefield enhancements.

  ? Beast Trainers & Tamers: Developing strong bonds with creatures and using them in battle.

  ? Inventors & Researchers: Advancing technology, crafting weapons, and developing survival equipment.

  The Balance of Power:

  ? Naturals excel in preparation, strategy, and resourcefulness rather than brute force.

  ? They can match any other Path through intelligence, planning, and their mastery over beasts and science.

  ? Despite their lack of direct physical power, their creations, potions, and trained creatures make them unpredictable opponents.

  Naturals prove that power is not just about raw strength, it is about intelligence, adaptability, and mastering the world around you.

  Eligibility & The Compatibility Test

  To be eligible for any of the four paths, individuals must undergo a compatibility test to determine their suitability for fusion, augmentation, or genetic modification.

  ? Minimum Requirement: A compatibility score of over 60% is needed to increase the chance of survival with the fusion process.

  ? Difficulty:

  ? Achieving a high compatibility score is extremely difficult, making it rare for individuals to qualify for their desired path.

  ? Many fail the test, forcing them to choose alternative roles or remain as unenhanced humans.

  ? Cost & Exclusivity:

  ? Fusion and augmentation procedures are expensive, making certain paths only available to the wealthy or those who prove themselves through military service or special programs.

  ? Some enhancements require extensive training, resources, and years of preparation before a person can even attempt fusion or modification.

  ? The Natural (Nats) path is the most accessible but still requires rigorous training and education in chemistry, medicine, and support roles.

  There is no right or wrong path, only what each person chooses for themselves.

  But no matter the choice, one thing is certain:

  Only the strongest will survive the world of Planet Tala.

  Final Warning

  On Planet Tala, humanity is no longer the dominant species.

  The Monsters own the land, the sea, and the skies.

  And they are still evolving.

  The War is Just Beginning…

  500 years later, mankind now fights for survival on two fronts:

  ? Against the ever-evolving monsters lurking in uncharted lands.

  ? Against the harsh environment of Planet Tala, where survival depends on adaptation, strategy, and strength.

  The monsters continue to adapt, growing smarter, deadlier, and more organized.

  And beyond the fortified borders of humanity, vast uncharted lands await, territories filled with undiscovered creatures, hidden ruins, and unknown threats.

  As the Neos, Metas, Mutas, and Nats prepare for battle, a new chapter begins, One that will determine the fate of mankind’s survival… or extinction.

  Only the strongest will endure.