The morning sun illuminated the corridors of the small academy. Draven walked beside Zayra, feeling a mixture of anxiety and anticipation. Today would be his first formal lesson, about the world he lived in—something no training in the forest could teach.
They arrived at a large room, with rows of students of various races. In the center, a human professor with short brown hair and a firm posture awaited. He carried a large book, but his presence conveyed authority, like someone who had already faced wars.
"Good morning, students," he said, his voice firm. "Today we will begin with the basics: the main races of the world and their role in the history of wars. Pay attention, because knowing allies and enemies is as important as knowing how to fight."
1. Humans
The professor began with the most common race:
Adaptable and resourceful.
They do not possess extraordinary strength or a natural affinity with energy, but they compensate with strategy, technology, and group tactics.
Some humans manage to stand out as legendary warriors thanks to intense training and special artifacts. 1.
Draven observed a young human at the back of the room. Even though seemingly weak, his concentration and discipline were evident. He realized that even the seemingly limited can become dangerous if well-prepared.
2. Beastikim
The dominant warrior race:
Divided into subspecies, each with its own techniques:
Ape-Men: extreme agility, leaps, and quick attacks.
Trige-Men: brute strength and physical resistance, devastating blows.
Lion-Men: balance between strength and speed, coordinated attacks with claws and jaws.
"The Beastikim are natural warriors," explained the professor. "Each subspecies develops different abilities to adapt to varied combat."
Draven remembered what Zayra had said: for them, battle is almost culture.
3. Angels
Winged beings that manipulate light energy.
Specialized in aerial attacks and speed, but with less physical strength compared to the Beastikim. They can control the distance without being touched, but in close combat they are more vulnerable.
The professor pointed to some students flying in the courtyard:
"A well-trained angel can control the battlefield from the air. But if surprised on solid ground, they will be at a disadvantage."
4. Demons
They manipulate dark energy, conjuring flames, blades, or energy blasts.
Above-average strength and physical resistance, with destructive attacks.
Many have distinct physical features: horns, red eyes, or scales.
"Demons can quickly destroy obstacles and unprepared enemies," said the professor. "But if they expend too much energy, they become vulnerable."
5. Dragons
Rare but extremely powerful creatures.
Capable of manipulating fire, ice, acid, or pure energy, depending on their lineage.
Close combat is not their specialty, but their scales and natural strength make any physical attack risky.
High intelligence, capable of devising complex battle strategies.
6. Elves
High dexterity, speed, and manipulation of magic or natural energy.
Experts in ranged attacks and stealth.
They can use bows, light blades, or spells to control the battlefield.
Although physically weaker compared to Beastikim, their precision and coordination are deadly.
7. Dwarves
Impressive physical strength, natural resistance, and specialization in heavy weapons.
Masters of defensive tactics and equipment construction.
Slower, but each blow is devastating.
Some possess an affinity with elemental energy linked to earth or metal.
8. Other minor races
Each has developed its own techniques: stealth, agility, enhanced defense, or elemental abilities.
Despite their smaller numbers, they can tip the balance of battles if used correctly.
Draven realized that diversity of techniques and styles was the key to the world's balance.
Final remark from the teacher:
"Strength and energy are important, but they don't guarantee victory," he concluded. "Knowing your opponent, anticipating their movements, and combining strategy with technique is what makes a complete warrior."
Draven took a deep breath. In the forest, he had learned instinct and reflexes. Now, he would learn strategy, technique, and how to deal with different fighting styles.
Zaya looked at him with a slight smile:
"It will be interesting to see how you adapt to all of this."
Draven simply nodded. For the first time since arriving at the academy, he felt that the real learning was only beginning.