Zena braced herself for the challenging week ahead, aware of the high stakes involved. The tension among Baraqil and the other fleet leaders was palpable, as they had received word that the Corps of Venom army was much larger than they had expected. Zena overheard a conversation between one leader, Dagiel, and someone else through what appeared to be a communication device made of water.
Dagiel was a fellow angel and stood about the same height as Baraqil. Zena had met him a few times before and found him to be friendly. During the conversation, Dagiel had been inquiring if they could receive help within the week, given the significant difference in army sizes. However, it also embroiled the other party in their battle in a different constellation and would require them to help themselves.
As Dagiel finished his communication, he looked up and caught Zena’s gaze, causing her to glance away, feeling a sense of guilt for eavesdropping.
Dagiel beckoned Zena over. As she approached, they both gazed out at the magnificent fleet before them. Thousands of angels bustled about, some preparing their armor, others chatting, and still others practicing with their weapons. “I had hoped we’d gotten rid of the Corps of Venom long ago,” Dagiel remarked with a shake of his head.
Zena smiled up at him. “Well, I only learned of their existence a few days ago,” she quipped, eliciting a chuckle from the angel.”
Daigle explained the origins of the Corps of Venom. “They were once a humanoid species from the planet Theonope in the Syncerus constellation. They were peaceful beings and caused no trouble. However, a disease struck their planet, transforming all of them into the creatures we know now.”
He continued to describe the symptoms of the disease. “The initial symptoms include shaking hands and eye twitching, which start a few days after contracting the disease. The frequency of shaking hands tends to decrease over time, and almost all cases experience blood in their urine around this time, which can lessen the severity of the eye twitching.”
“After a few more days, a sore throat is experienced, followed by physical changes. Their limbs grow almost twice their normal size, and their torso turns bright red and bulges,” Daigle explained.
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As they continued their conversation, Saffron arrived, having overheard their discussion. “That disease sounds terrible,” she said, concern etched on her face. “It’s a shame that such a tragedy befell them.” She then shifted the topic, emphasizing the importance of magical research and creativity, which she believed was still hindered by traditional beliefs. Zena listened, realizing that magic was more than just a tool for battle - it was a powerful force that could be harnessed in countless ways.
As the week progressed, Zena’s skills improved under Saffron’s tutelage, and she felt more confident in her abilities. She learned how to channel her magical energy and direct it toward specific tasks, such as creating shields or manipulating objects. Though it was challenging at first, with practice, she mastered the art.
The day of the battle arrived, and Zena and Saffron joined the rest of the fleet, ready to confront their enemy.
Saffron surprised Zena by calling her into his room, where a crafted silver suit made of Pholastonite awaited her on the bed. “I had this made for you,” Saffron said. “It will help keep you safe during battle if the Corps of Venom comes near you.”
Zena was speechless as she stared at the stunning piece before her. “Thank you, Saffron. I don’t know what to say,” she managed to say. Saffron nodded and left her to get into her new armor.
As Zena put on the armor, it seemed to have a mind of its own and started forming into her body. Despite it being a suit of armor, it felt like nothing, almost as if she was wearing pajamas. Once she was ready, she stepped out to meet Saffron, who was holding a helmet for her. “Off we go,” he said as he handed her the helmet. Zena climbed onto his back as they headed to battle with the entire fleet with them.
As they flew towards the enemy’s stronghold, Zena felt a mix of fear and excitement. She had never been in a battle before. She tightened her grip on Saffron’s shoulders and took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. The sight that awaited them was grim - a dark and menacing fortress surrounded by hordes of enemy troops, armed and ready for battle.
After landing near the fortress walls, Saffron joined the front lines of their army, where he met with the other leaders. Zena followed behind, unsure of what her role was in the upcoming battle. She felt lost and anxious, not knowing where to start or what to do.
“Saffron, you will lead the troops to that area. There are about 500 of them,” Daigle said, pointing to a spot on the map.
Saffron nodded confidently. “I can handle that.”