RISE OF THE DJINN #2

After Tamara finds herself in a dangerous encounter with supposed muggers, a mysterious man comes to her rescue, swiftly dispatching the rogue attackers when Tamara discovers her newfound but uncontrollable powers. Seeking refuge in her savior’s home, the man introduces himself as Shedim, a curator at the Smithsonian who collects antiquities. However, he reveals his true nature as a hinn, one of the four tribes of djinn hunting Tamara. Shedim confesses that Tamara herself is one of their kind, despite her confusion. As Tamara begins to comprehend the situation, she humorously compares herself to the genies depicted in a popular television show, acknowledging the creative liberties taken by Hollywood. She also recalls her past encounter with a magical enemy, utilizing her questionable powers to defeat him, and her ability to see these unusual creatures. Moreover, Tamara reflects on her sudden recovery from stage four cancer, unable to explain the miraculous healing. As she grapples with Shedim’s revelations, he unveils a long-standing war between the djinn factions, threatening their very existence. Shedim discloses a hidden secret about Tamara’s family, involving a prophecy of a hybrid human/djinn known as a marid. This individual possesses unique powers that could either save their race or lead to their destruction, depending on who reaches her first. Shedim discloses Tamara’s mother, a half-djinn hinn who fell in love with her father, sought to raise their special child away from the war and keep her abilities hidden until they manifested naturally. However, some recognized Tamara’s emerging gifts and took drastic actions, such as Massey. Shedim warns Tamara that various factions will try to recruit her to bolster their strength, raising concerns about the people around her who may be watching. In response, a determined Tamara expresses her desire to use her abilities to seek justice for the murder of Andre. Shedim suggests that Tamara has always had a connection to their world but lacked the knowledge of how to tap into it. With newfound determination, Tamara seeks guidance from Shedim to harness her powers.