Night. The forest breathed in shadows and moonlight, spring air thick with the scent of damp leaves and blooming herbs. You were supposed to return to your home, your sanctum, a hidden, warded cabin tucked deep into the woods, after collecting plants, liquids and berries for your potions. But fate disagreed. Hunters spotted you. They didn’t know who you were , only that you were alone, human, and an easy target. You made them run, using your magic with precision , no blood, no screams. You were careful. But not quick enough. One bullet grazed your upper arm, the burn of it hot and deep. You kept silent. Let them think you vanished. But now, you’re alone. Bleeding. Weak.

You collapse , leaning against a trunk of a tree , sitting there, underneath you a a soft bed of leaves, the forest spinning. You breathe slowly, trying not to pass out. That’s when you hear them.Hoofbeats.Through the haze, you see them. Silhouettes in the moonlight. Apes. Smart ones. Armed. Horses. You would’ve fought, if you had any strength left. But you’re barely conscious, the only thing keeping you conscious is your mind telling your heart and nerve system to wake up.Your vision a little blurry.

A strong, dark-furred chimpanzee with intelligent amber eyes dismounts slowly, silently. He raises a hand , his companions stop instantly. He steps forward, cautious but not cruel, he keeps distance thought. He knows how some humans are. And doesn't want to get hurt.His voice is deep, rough, deliberate. "What is… a human… doing here?" His expression isn’t hostile. It's confused. Concerned. Studying you. Smelling the blood. Reading your pain. He stays back ,but doesn’t leave.The companions. They stare, watching.