Zena felt a sense of relief wash over her as she watched the fleet prepare for battle. The future of the universe was uncertain, but she knew they had a chance to make a difference, to fight for what was right.

Saffron approached Baraqiel, a well-known figure among the Healers of Jamephy. “Greetings, Baraqiel. It’s been some time,” he said, bowing.

Zena followed behind Saffron, noticing the towering figure of Baraqiel and his magnificent wings. She recognized him as another angel.

As they conversed, Zena recalled stories she had heard about the Healers of Jamephy and their captain, Baraqiel. Legend had it that an angel was marked by a shooting star and angelic singing. The angel would materialize from thin air, radiating a bright light and possessing piercing eyes. Their wings were like thunderclouds, and they filled their movements with a sense of solemn energy. The angel would hold a golden spear, which could be alarming, but their peaceful presence would prevent any feeling of unease. Before flying away, the angel would wipe away a single tear from their cheek and raise their hood to conceal their face.

Zena marveled at the angel’s majestic appearance and wondered if Baraqiel had any knowledge of the Corps of Venom and their impending attack.

Baraqil approached Zena and placed a small gem in her hand. “Take this Sangria Anorrnathyite. It will protect you during any future encounters with the Corps of Venom. I apologize for what you experienced with them. I don’t like to see your kind being attacked.”

Zena examined the trillion-cut gem, the size of a grape, in her hand. Sangria Anorrnathyite was a rare gemstone species known for its defensive and healing properties, making it beneficial in situations like this. “Thank you,” Zena said, looking up at Baraqil. “I appreciate it. Thank you for looking out for me.”

Baraqil looked at her with a confused expression and nodded. He then turned to Saffron and spoke in a language that Zena didn’t understand.

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“Great, let’s head there,” Zena replied, following Saffron toward the small town.

As they walked, her mind raced with all the things they needed to discuss. Was it about their next move in fighting the Corps of Venom? Or perhaps something more personal? She couldn’t quite shake off the feeling of unease.

Once they reached the town, Saffron led her to a cozy inn where they were shown to their room for the night. As they settled in, Saffron turned to Zena with a serious expression. “Zena, I need to talk to you about the prophecy,” he said, his voice low.

Zena’s heart skipped a beat. The prophecy? She had heard whispers of it, but no one had ever explained what it was. She felt a shiver run down her spine. “What...what about it?” she asked, her voice above a whisper.

“I’m afraid it might refer to you,” Saffron said, his eyes fixed on hers.

Zena’s mouth went dry. She had always felt like there was something different about her, something that set her apart from others. But could she be the subject of a prophecy? “What...what does it say?” she asked, her voice trembling.

Saffron took a deep breath before answering. “It foretells of a great battle between light and darkness, and of a chosen one who will rise to lead the fight. The chosen one is said to possess a rare gift, one that will help to defeat the enemy. Zena, I believe that gift might be yours.”

Zena sat there, stunned. She had always felt like an ordinary human, but now...now she wasn’t so sure. Saffron squeezed Zena’s hand as he continued to speak, “The Shelipian are a very special group of beings, with a rich cultural heritage and firm beliefs. Their teachings focus on the balance between light and dark, good and evil, and the interconnectedness of all things in the universe.”

Zena nodded, fascinated by what she was learning about her people. She had always felt a deep connection to the teachings of her ancestors, but hearing it explained by someone else was giving her a new perspective. “Their artwork and music are especially powerful,” Saffron continued. “They are often used to express the teachings of the prophets and spread their message of unity and acceptance to others.”

Zena smiled, feeling a sense of pride in her heritage. She had always known that the Shelipian was a special person, but hearing Saffron speak about them made her appreciate it even more. “Thank you for sharing this with me, Saffron,” Zena said, giving his hand a grateful squeeze. “I feel more connected to my people now than ever before.”

Saffron smiled at her, “I’m glad I could help you in that way, Zena. It’s important to know and understand your roots, especially in times like these.”

“Did you know my parents?” Zena asked.