Zaydan leaned back, rubbing his temples as he processed everything Azaad had told them so far. There was still so much he didn't understand about this world. "Azaad, you've told us about magic, status, and power, but what about the people? Who actually lives in your world?"
Azaad smirked and waved his hand. A golden light shimmered in the air, forming different figures. "Ah, an important question. My world is vast, filled with many races. Eight primary ones, to be exact."
The figures took shape one by one.
"Humans, of course, are the most adaptable. They don't have any particular strengths, but their ability to innovate and strategize gives them an edge over the other races."
A slender, regal-looking figure with long ears appeared, holding a bow. "Elves are known for their longevity, their natural talent for magic, and their deep connection with nature. They value wisdom and grace above all."
A shorter, stockier figure emerged next, gripping a massive hammer in one hand and a mug of ale in the other. "Dwarves, the finest craftsmen and miners in the world. They build cities within mountains, and they have an undying love for beer and wine."
Rehan smirked. "So basically, they're short, grumpy alcoholics?"
Azaad chuckled. "Say that to their faces, and you'll find yourself flying across the continent."
Another figure appeared, this one tall and muscular with sharp claws and wolf ears. "Beastmen are strong and driven by instinct. Their tribes are divided based on their animal lineage—wolves, lions, tigers, birds, and so on."
Next was a man with fox-like ears and a tail. "Demi-humans are somewhat similar to beastmen, but they integrate better into human society. Some only have minor traits, while others inherit heightened senses or reflexes."
A dark, ominous figure with horns and glowing red eyes took shape. "Demons are often misunderstood. They possess powerful magic and incredible endurance. Unlike the stories on Earth, demons are not inherently evil. They have their own civilizations and cultures, just like any other race."
A glowing, angelic figure materialized next. "The Celestials. Rare beings blessed by divine energy. They often serve as high priests, oracles, or warriors in holy churches."
Finally, the last figure emerged, its form constantly shifting as though wrapped in shadows. "And then, there are the Ancients. The oldest race, shrouded in mystery. They rarely interact with the rest of the world, and even I don't fully understand them."
Zaydan nodded, taking it all in. "So basically, your world is a chaotic mix of every fantasy novel ever written."
Azaad smirked. "Exactly."
There was a brief silence before Zaydan asked, "What about slavery? Does that exist here too?"
Azaad's expression darkened. "It does."
Rehan frowned. "Even with all these different races and advanced magic?"
Azaad sighed. "Power governs all things. Slavery exists in many forms, just as it did in your own world's history. Some people are sold into slavery due to debt. Some criminals are sentenced to servitude instead of execution. War captives become slaves. And then there are those born into it, never knowing anything else."
Zaydan's fists clenched. "And the nobles? They just allow it?"
"Some depend on it," Azaad admitted. "Especially those who run large estates or businesses. They see it as a necessary evil."
Rehan hesitated before asking, "What about… sex slavery?"
Azaad's face grew grim. "It exists. But unlike other forms of slavery, it is one of the darkest and most unspoken aspects of society. Some noble houses engage in it, treating slaves as disposable. Others operate underground businesses, where captives—especially those of rare races like elves and celestials—are sold at high prices."
Zaydan's jaw tightened. "That's disgusting."
"It is," Azaad agreed. "But it's deeply ingrained in the system."
Zaydan exhaled slowly, trying to suppress his anger. "Then we need to change that."
Rehan raised an eyebrow. "You're serious? You want to dismantle an entire system?"
"I'm not saying we abolish it overnight," Zaydan replied. "That would be unrealistic. But we can weaken it over time."
Azaad listened curiously as Zaydan began to outline his thoughts.
"If people are selling themselves into slavery due to debt, then we need to provide alternative jobs. What if we created a guild that helps former slaves find work?"
Azaad stroked his beard. "A 'Freeman's Guild'? Interesting..."
"For criminal slaves, there should be a rehabilitation system. If they work for a certain period, they should have the chance to earn their freedom," Zaydan continued.
Rehan leaned back. "And what about the nobles? Won't they resist?"
Zaydan smirked. "We make it profitable for them to free slaves. Give them tax cuts, trade benefits—make them feel like freeing slaves is in their best interest."
Azaad's eyes gleamed. "You're thinking like a ruler now, Zaydan."
There was a moment of silence before Azaad asked, "But what about thieves? Criminals who deserve punishment? What system do you propose for them?"
Zaydan thought for a moment. Then, a thought struck him. "Azaad, you can create skills, right?"
"Of course."
"Then, I want a special skill—one that allows its user to see the full truth behind a crime. Not just what happened, but why it happened."
Azaad's eyebrow rose in intrigue. "And who would have this power?"
Zaydan counted on his fingers. "Five people: The Demon Lord, the Priest of the Holy Church, the King of All Races, the Royal Judge—the one below the king who enforces laws—and me."
Rehan whistled. "That's a dangerous ability."
Azaad rubbed his chin. "And how would judgment be decided?"
Zaydan's eyes gleamed. "It will be public. When the skill is used, the entire world will see the crime and the decision-making process. The punishment will be decided by majority vote. If the wielder chooses wrongly, their lifespan will be shortened."
Azaad burst into laughter. "Hahaha! Now this is a real challenge! A system that forces its users to make fair decisions, or they themselves will suffer? I love it!"
Rehan smirked. "And just like that, you're making history again, Zaydan."
Zaydan sighed. "It's not about history, it's about change. If I'm going to rise in this world, I need a system that protects my interests too."
Azaad grinned. "Then consider it done. I will create this skill, and soon… the world will witness true justice."
As the room filled with golden light, a sense of excitement settled over them. They were no longer just two men from Earth—they were architects of a new future.
And their adventure had only just begun.