What you are describing was designed that way. A Gargoyle on board is much better than a crappy Brutalis and War Banner.

All Humans from CotC do start with CA to help them prepare for the invaders. All Shadow are the invaders and so fight Humans from the first battle. Note all new sign-ups only get Human heroes. You are meant to play a bit with Human before you move to trying Shadow.

Hope that helps.