3 – The Call of the Jungle

In the depths of the jungle, under the influence of a profound call from the wild, Tarzan, the English lord raised by apes, finds himself restless one night. He slips away from the safety of his camp, propelled by a primal urge to reconnect with his jungle origins. Through the trees, propelled by exhilaration and a masterful agility, he moves with a purpose known only to him, ultimately seeking prey. Tarzan’s advanced senses lead him to track down Bara, the deer, whose scent promises a rewarding hunt. After a stealthy pursuit, he launches a deadly attack from above, securing his kill with a precision born of his dual heritage—both man and beast.

The victory is short-lived, however, as Numa, the lion, drawn by the scent of blood, challenges Tarzan for the prize. The confrontation between the apex predators is averted when Tarzan offers a portion of his catch to Numa, embodying a deep understanding of the jungle’s brutal negotiations. However, Numa’s later aggression towards the kill incites Tarzan to retaliate, pelting the lion with fruit to reclaim his dominance. This intricate dance of power is a testament to Tarzan’s connection to the wild, a balance of respect and rivalry.

The narrative takes a twist as both Tarzan and Numa become aware of a human intruder, a witch-doctor moving through the jungle. The ensuing chase sees Tarzan saving the witch-doctor from Numa’s jaws, showcasing his extraordinary courage and strength. He battles Numa with ferocity, eventually overcoming the lion in a display of primal supremacy.

This encounter is observed by the witch-doctor, who recognizes Tarzan as a figure from his past, a legend brought to life. The clash not only cements Tarzan’s stature as a formidable force within the jungle but also reconnects him with the mystical and human elements of his complex identity. This chapter weaves together themes of survival, territory, and the inherent call of the wild that defines Tarzan’s existence, bridging his civilized and savage selves in a relentless pursuit of identity and supremacy in the jungle hierarchy.