17 Years Before the Main Story
The dawn of the first day of January 2006 painted the sky of Lima with shades of orange and pink. In the district of San Miguel, the streets still bore the remnants of the New Year's celebration: scattered streamers, forgotten plastic cups, and the distant echo of laughter and music.
José Atilano Bonillas Rojas, a 27-year-old man with a simple and hardworking life, was returning home after a long day as a driver. His short black hair still held traces of sweat, and his tanned skin reflected the day's effort. He dressed modestly: a blue shirt, matching pants, a black belt, and well-polished shoes. Upon arriving at his home, a small apartment with cream-colored walls and warm-toned curtains, he took off his work clothes and put on a red t-shirt and blue shorts, completing his outfit with worn but comfortable sandals.
As he crossed the door, the unmistakable aroma of freshly made red pasta enveloped him. In the kitchen, illuminated by a hanging lamp, Eliana awaited him with a smile. She wore a simple cotton dress and held a broom in her hands as she finished sweeping. Despite life denying them the possibility of having children after several failed pregnancies, their love remained intact, unbreakable as in their teenage years.
—Love, I'm home. I hope you're as beautiful as always —said José with a warm smile.
Eliana set the broom aside and turned to him, her melodious laughter filling the room.
—How could I not be, with such a charming husband? —she replied while serving dinner on white plates with golden edges.
They sat at the small wooden dining table, sharing a simple yet meaningful dinner. José savored every bite; Eliana had a special talent for cooking. After the meal, while he washed the dishes, she prepared the living room, arranging some cushions on the sofa and turning on the television to watch a movie together.
—I love you, you know that —said José, smiling as he dried his hands with a cloth.
—Yes, love, you always tell me —Eliana replied, blushing slightly but with a look full of tenderness.
She rested her head on his chest as the movie played. Two hours later, with the credits rolling on the screen and the lights dimmed, Eliana fell asleep in his arms. José watched her lovingly, then carefully carried her and laid her on their bed, making sure she was comfortable.
At that moment, his phone vibrated on the nightstand. Moving silently, he picked it up and saw a message from his friend César.
César had been a troubled youth until, at 14, Father Michael guided him to the path of faith. Now, he was a devoted Christian with aspirations of church leadership. His short black hair, dark skin, and deep eyes gave him a serene air. He usually dressed simply: a white shirt with a cross embroidered on the chest, black pants, and striking orange sneakers.
César's message was brief, just asking how he was doing. José responded casually, and soon the conversation flowed with jokes and memories.
—Hey, do you remember Liz, Eliana's cousin? —asked César with a hint of nervousness.
—Of course. What about her? —José replied, curious.
—I'm in love with her… and I plan to leave the priesthood —César confessed, his voice filled with uncertainty.
José remained silent for a moment, surprised. Then, a supportive smile appeared on his face.
—My friend, if it's true love, don't let anything stop you. Go for it.
After exchanging a few more words, José set his phone on the nightstand and got into bed beside Eliana, letting sleep take over.
José's Dream
The landscape around him was unfamiliar and yet strangely familiar. He found himself in an immense garden covered with flowers of all colors: roses, daisies, sunflowers, lilies. The fresh scent of nature filled the air. Taking a few steps forward, he saw Eliana, radiant under the golden light of the place.
—Love, what are you doing in my dream? —asked José, puzzled but happy.
—I don't know. Suddenly, I was here… and I found you —she replied, gently taking his hand.
Together, they walked along a white stone path that crossed the garden. Soon, they encountered César and Liz, both equally confused.
—What are you two doing here? —asked Eliana, raising an eyebrow.
—I don't know, Eli… I went to sleep and appeared in this place —Liz answered, looking around in amazement.
—I feel the same —added César, furrowing his brow.
Suddenly, a bright light emerged in front of them, taking the form of a human being. His presence radiated peace and power at the same time.
—Hello, my children —said Jesus, with a loving smile that illuminated the place even more.
The four of them stood still, feeling a deep sense of reverence. They lowered their heads in respect.
—I have a mission for you. You will face demons to protect your country —Jesus continued, his voice firm and solemn.
They looked at each other, not fully understanding. Jesus snapped his fingers, and suddenly, two swords and two sabers appeared before them, shining with a celestial glow.
—These weapons will help you in your mission. If you place the armors on your chest, your abilities will rise; you will have the same power as an angel —explained the Savior, his gaze full of confidence.
Before they could fully process it, a blinding light enveloped them.
José woke up abruptly, his breathing heavy. He turned to Eliana, who was also waking up with an expression of astonishment.
—Love, I had a dream where Jesus chose us to fight against demons… and he gave us angelic weapons —said Eliana, yawning as she rubbed her eyes.
—What a coincidence… I dreamed the same thing —José responded, feeling a shiver run down his spine.
They got out of bed with their hearts racing, and when they looked toward the desk in the room, their eyes widened in disbelief.
On the dark wooden surface rested a red sword and a golden saber. Beside them, a small note written in delicate handwriting read:
"I hope this helps you in your mission."
José and Eliana exchanged a look filled with determination. They knew that what had begun as a dream was about to become reality.