The Skyward Trial

Their first destination was the Skyward Citadel, home of Aeris’s clan. The citadel floated high above the clouds, suspended by ancient Essence Crystals. Aeris led the way, her expression unreadable.

The Skyward Clan welcomed her coldly. Aeris’s past failures had tarnished her honor, and now she returned with strangers. The clan’s leader, Elder Caelum, issued a challenge: if they wanted the Skyward Relic, Kairos would have to pass the Skyward Trial — a test of speed, agility, and wind manipulation.

The trial began in a vast arena of floating platforms and shifting winds. Kairos fought against Skyward warriors, each wielding blinding speed and razor-sharp wind attacks. He struggled, their movements too fast, their strikes too precise.

Then he closed his eyes. He let the Eclipse Flame flow, feeling the winds around him. Time slowed. He moved with the currents, dodging effortlessly and striking with newfound precision.

When the trial ended, Elder Caelum reluctantly handed over the Skyward Relic. “You have earned this,” he said. “But the road ahead will only grow darker.”

Aeris, watching silently, felt a flicker of pride.