The glowing portal stood in front of them—huge and spinning slowly.
Bright lights flashed around it, showing a path that led to the Sky Temple, a place high above the clouds.
Zayn stood calmly, looking at it.Elaine held her dagger tightly.Aqua adjusted the crystal bracelet on her wrist.Astra floated beside them like a soft blue flame.
"Once we go through, there's no turning back," said Aqua.
Zayn nodded. "We have no choice. The Sky Temple hides one of the Seven Heavenly Seals. If we want to protect the realms, we must gather them all."
Elaine sighed. "And we'll meet her again… I really don't like her."
Zayn gave a small smile. "She doesn't like you either."
"Good," Elaine said proudly.
They stepped through the portal.
A flash of light covered everything.
When they opened their eyes, they were standing on clouds.
Yes, real clouds.
The Sky Realm was beautiful—bright skies, silver trees, flying islands, and birds that sparkled like diamonds.
Floating above it all was the Sky Temple—an enormous palace made of light and wind.
"It's just as I remember," Zayn whispered.
But then—a loud trumpet echoed in the sky.
From above, several winged warriors flew down, wearing silver armor and holding glowing spears.
"Who dares enter the Sky Temple uninvited?" one of them shouted.
Zayn raised his hand. "Tell your master—Zayn has returned."
The warriors stopped mid-air. One of them whispered, "Is that really… the Star Sovereign?"
The leader gave a sharp nod. "Come. She will meet you."
Inside the Sky Temple…
A grand hall stretched endlessly, with crystal floors and floating lights.
Sitting on a throne made of wind was a tall, beautiful woman.
Her silver hair flowed like rivers of light. Her eyes were cold, but powerful.
She was Selene, the Sky Queen.
When she saw Zayn, she stood up slowly.
"It's been a long time, Zayn," she said.
Zayn walked forward. "Too long, Selene."
Elaine muttered under her breath, "Ugh, I forgot how perfect she acts."
Selene raised an eyebrow. "Still jealous, little fire girl?"
Elaine stepped forward, her flames flaring. "Still annoying, cloud princess?"
Aqua sighed. "Please. Not again."
Selene ignored them and looked at Zayn. "Why are you here, truly?"
Zayn's voice was calm. "The seals. One of them is here."
Selene looked serious. "You know what awakening it means, right?"
"Yes," Zayn said. "It means the Realms War is starting again."
Selene took a deep breath. Then, she smiled.
"Very well. I'll give you the seal—but first, you must pass the Sky Trial."
Zayn smiled. "Of course."
Selene raised her hand, and the floor beneath Zayn started to glow.
"Step into the Sky Gate. If your heart is true, the seal will awaken for you."
Zayn stepped forward, eyes filled with stars.
"I have no fear. I've walked through the fire of a thousand worlds."