Lycanthrope (thinking): This is my moment. I will prove to Lord Akira that I am the strongest.
As she disappeared into the trees, her heart pounded not with fatigue but with exhilaration. Her fight wasn’t over—there were more badges to claim, more proof of her strength to be gathered.
From his vantage point high in the trees, Akira observed the fight with a satisfied smirk.
Akira (thinking): Not bad, young Beastling. Not bad at all.
The level of skill the female Lycan displayed was impressive—unheard of for the Beastling race before their evolution into Lycanthropes. Her movements were fluid, her strikes precise, and her strategy calculated. It wasn’t just instinct driving her; it was discipline and a burning desire to excel.
Akira (thinking): Their transformation is more than physical—it’s awakening their potential as warriors. Evolution indeed.
With a flick of his cloak, Akira leapt from his perch and disappeared into the forest, eager to spectate the other fights.
For hours, Akira observed battles across the forest, watching the young warriors push themselves to their limits. Each fight revealed something new—hidden potential, untapped skills, and a sense of camaraderie that hadn’t existed before.
When the final fight ended, Akira called out to Bennu, the Phoenix spirit who manifested as a glowing, fiery presence beside him.
Akira: “Bennu, cast a healing veil over the entire forest.”
Bennu (bowing): “Yes, Master.”
With a burst of brilliant white light, a soft, warm veil fell across the forest. Every scratch, bruise, and injury healed instantly, leaving the participants rejuvenated and full of energy.
Akira flew to the center of the forest, hovering just above the treetops.
Akira: “Athena, enhance my vocal cords.”
Athena (calm and obedient in his mind): “Understood, Master. Enhancement complete.”
His voice boomed across the forest like rolling thunder.
Akira: “THE TEST IS NOW OVER. PLEASE MAKE YOUR WAY BACK TO THE VILLAGE.”
Thirty minutes later, Akira stood at the center of the village, waiting as the testers arrived one by one. He watched their eager faces, some weary from battle but all brimming with anticipation.
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Akira (to Athena): “Analyze the forest. Is anyone left behind?”
Athena: “Analysis complete. All participants are accounted for.”
Satisfied, Akira addressed the crowd, his voice steady and commanding.
Akira: “Good job, everyone. Bennu and I analyzed your fights, and I’m proud to say we’re thoroughly impressed. You should be, too. You fought like seasoned warriors—a skillset unheard of before your evolution. I’m glad this test went so well.”
The crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement palpable. Akira raised a hand to quiet them.
Akira: “Now, it’s time to announce the classes. These classes are designed for organization, efficiency, and progression. Here’s how they’ll work:
- Swordsman: If you chose the sword, you’ll be on the front lines, the enforcers who fight for our village.
- Assassins: If you chose daggers, your role is covert missions—remaining unseen and resourceful.
- Mages: Those with wands are exceptional in the magical arts, supporting from the rear.
- Tanks: Warhammer users, you’ll be the heavy hitters and damage takers.
- Brawlers: Barehanded fighters and gauntlet users, you’ll uphold the law and detain wrongdoers.
Finally, to those who didn’t take the test: I want you to take on crucial roles as merchants, suppliers, farmers, and more. This village needs you to thrive and flourish.”
Excitement rippled through the crowd as villagers discussed their new roles and responsibilities. But there was one question lingering in the air: the hierarchy.
Akira: “Now, let’s discuss the hierarchy. There are seven ranks, but for now, only six will be filled.
- Leader: That’s obviously me.
- Elders: Reserved for the oldest and wisest.
- Commanding Chief: The second-in-command. Step forward.”
A young male Lycanthrope stepped forward, his posture confident but respectful.
Akira: “What’s your name?”
Lycanthrope: “Karma, my Lord.”
Akira: “Karma, your promise, skill, and perception stood out. I grant you the rank of Commanding Chief.”
Karma bowed deeply.
Karma: “Thank you, my Lord.”
Akira: “Next are the Heavenly Kings—leaders of the five divisions based on classes.
- Division 1, Equinox: You. What’s your name?”
Lycanthrope: “Zara, my Lord.”
Akira: “Zara, your fight with the dagger user was impressive. You are now the Heavenly King of Equinox.”
- Division 2, Hasashi: You.”
A young Lycanthrope stepped forward.
Akira: “What’s your name?”
Lycanthrope: “Nova, my Lord.”
Akira (smiling): “Fitting, since your sister also shone brightly today. Your skill with the dagger was exceptional. Lead Hasashi well.”
- Division 3, Arcane: You.”
Lycanthrope: “Zephyr, my Lord.”
Akira: “Zephyr, your magical skills have great potential. With training, you could surpass even me one day.”
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Division 4: “Hinata, you are Division 4’s Heavenly King. Your gauntlet skills were unmatched.”
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Division 5, Apollo: Reserved for the Blood-Tinge Wolf Alpha, Apollo.”
Akira: “The final rank, Vice-Captain, will be chosen by each Heavenly King. Take your time and choose wisely. Regular members will train under their assigned divisions.
As for the seventh rank, that will remain empty… for now.”
Cheers erupted once again as Akira stepped back, watching his people celebrate their new roles and futures.
Akira (thinking, a small smile on his lips): This is only the beginning.