The wolf and the gnome

Mortellus continued Beautiful, alluring, and equipped with a voice that can charm the most stubborn minds, Sirens."

"Sirens are excellent manipulators," Mortellus continued, ignoring her. "But beware of their temper. Cross one, and you might find yourself singing your secrets to the entire school."

Kael elbowed Theron. "You think Ingrid's ever tried her tricks on me?"

Theron replied dryly, "If she has, they clearly didn't work. You're still as obnoxious as ever."

"Fairies," Mortellus said, gesturing to Aelric. "Small, quick, and mischievous. Fairies are natural tricksters, using their speed and agility to outmaneuver their opponents."

Aelric grinned. "We're also great at parties."

Mortellus raised an eyebrow. "Yes, if by 'great' you mean 'utterly disruptive.' Fairies are also notoriously fond of pranks. If you find glitter in your shoes, it's probably their doing."

Kael muttered, "Glitter's better than glue."

Aelric smirked. "Next time, I'll combine them."

Mortellus gestured to a hulking orc in the back. "Orcs. The embodiment of strength and resilience. They are natural warriors, capable of enduring pain and hardship that would break most beings."

The orc grunted in approval, flexing his massive arms.

"However," Mortellus added, "orcs are also deeply honorable. They value loyalty and bravery above all else. Just don't insult their cooking. Ever."

"Gargoyles," Mortellus said, pointing to a stony figure near the window. "Masters of defense and endurance. They can turn to stone at will, making them nearly impervious to physical attacks."

The gargoyle shrugged. "We're also great at staying still."

Mortellus nodded. "True. But their slow movement can be a disadvantage. Gargoyles are patient to a fault, but when they strike, it's with the force of a landslide."

The lecture continued with detailed explanations of other beings, from dryads to shapeshifters, each more fascinating than the last. Mortellus wrapped up with a flourish.

"And there you have it—a brief introduction to the wonders and terrors of our supernatural world. Remember, understanding each other is the key to survival. Now go, and try not to get yourselves killed before the next class."

Kael stretched as they left. "Best class ever."

Theron shook his head. "You only say that because you were the star."

Kael grinned. "Exactly."

Theron sighed as they exited the enchanted classroom, the mystical forest fading behind them as the hallways of the academy stretched out before them. The soft buzz of students chattering filled the air, each group animatedly discussing Mortellus's lecture.

Kael slung an arm around Theron's shoulder. "Come on, admit it. You enjoyed that. Especially when he praised the gnomes for their genius."

Theron shrugged off Kael's arm, smirking. "It was a decent lecture. Though I'm still trying to figure out why he said lycans were apex predators when all I see is you begging for snacks half the time."

Kael clutched his chest in mock offense. "Theron, your words wound me. But don't worry, I forgive you. I'll just remind you of this when I'm saving you from some rogue vampire or rampaging orc."

"I'm more worried about you getting us into trouble with your big mouth," Theron shot back.

Before Kael could retort, Aelric darted up to them, his wings fluttering faintly as he hovered just above the ground. "Did you hear what Mortellus said about fairies? Glitter in your shoes? I am so offended. Glitter is too tame. I was thinking of enchanting your entire wardrobe to sparkle every time you move."

Kael groaned. "I don't even want to know how you'd do that."

"You'll find out soon enough," Aelric said, grinning mischievously.

Bronn joined the group, his expression as cool and collected as ever. "That lecture was entertaining, but Mortellus always exaggerates. Hypnotizing prey? Sure, if they're weak-willed or already terrified. Otherwise, it's more trouble than it's worth."

Kael raised an eyebrow. "So, you're saying you can't just stare into someone's eyes and make them do your bidding?"

Bronn smirked. "Not unless they're already inclined to do what I want. But don't worry, Kael. Your mind is safe. Too empty for me to bother with."

Lirien caught up to the group, her steps light and precise. "I thought the lecture was informative, though Mortellus left out some details. For example, he didn't mention that elves can sense the presence of life forms within a certain radius. A skill that would be particularly useful for catching a certain fairy sneaking into people's rooms."

Aelric put on an innocent face. "Me? Sneak into rooms? Lirien, I'm hurt. I'm the picture of integrity."

"You're the picture of chaos," she retorted, though there was a faint smile on her lips.

As they made their way toward the dormitories, the conversation turned to their own experiences with their respective abilities and quirks.

"Do you think Mortellus deliberately skipped over some stuff?" Theron asked, glancing at Lirien.

"Of course," she replied. "He loves leaving gaps so we'll be curious enough to do our own research—or get ourselves into trouble trying to find out."

Kael grinned. "Well, I don't need any more research. I think I'm the most fascinating being here."

Theron snorted. "You're fascinating, all right. Like a toddler with too much sugar."

"Jealousy doesn't suit you, Theron," Kael quipped, ruffling his friend's hair.

Theron swatted him away, muttering something about "overgrown puppies" as they finally reached the main courtyard.

The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the academy grounds. For a moment, the group stood in companionable silence, watching as students of every race and background mingled, their differences blending into a harmonious hum of activity.