The Sky Continent shimmered under a brilliance so intense that even the clouds seemed to bow in reverence. The blinding light expanded across the heavens, and every eye turned upward. From within the radiance, a figure slowly emerged—her presence enough to silence the winds themselves.
She was young in appearance, yet as ancient as the birth of the stars themselves. Her hair flowed in waves of gold and blue, catching the light like strands of living dawn and twilight entwined. Her eyes burned with a serene divinity, and every step seemed to paint the air with grace.
The gathered angels gasped—awed beyond words. Many fell to one knee instinctively.
"She's… our Guardian…" one whispered.
The King of the Sky Continent stepped forward, his voice proud yet trembling.
"Behold—Solaria Evangelyne, Goddess of the Sky and Protector of our kind!"
The newly born angel warriors bowed deeply as her gaze passed over them, warm yet commanding. Solaria's smile was faint, as if she saw far more than mortal eyes could comprehend. She spoke words of blessing, guidance, and warning.
Hours later, after the ceremonial greetings and the King's formal introductions were complete, Solaria's divine form returned to the Divine Realm.
There, the silence was broken by a deep, resonant hiss. A colossal serpent's head, crowned with silver scales and ancient markings, emerged from the shadows. His eyes gleamed like molten emeralds.
"Solaria…" His voice rumbled like shifting mountains. "What has transpired below the surface? Is my Sand Continent safe? If not, I will descend immediately."
She raised a hand, calm yet firm. "No need, Zerathul Ophionis. I have taken precautions. But… we only have one year before both of them awaken."
The serpent narrowed his eyes. "Then I will act as well. I will aid them. But… what if the Red Continent interferes?"
Her gaze hardened. "They won't. The Blood Queen will likely think it's nothing more than two giant serpents clashing. She will not concern herself."
Yet despite her words, an unspoken tension lingered.
Zerathul's tail coiled in unease. "You underestimate her… We have not seen the Blood Queen's full might for millennia."
Before the discussion could grow heavier, a voice—smooth, confident, and feminine—cut through the air. From the far shadows of the divine hall, a figure stepped forward, her presence cloaked in mystery.
"Do not worry," she said, a sly smile playing on her lips. "I have a card up my sleeve."
Neither Solaria nor Zerathul could tell whether her words were reassurance… or a warning.
---
Meanwhile…
Back on the Sky Continent, the academy's grand bell rang. Students rushed to their seats, whispering about the new professor arriving that day.
The classroom door slid open, revealing a tall man dressed in a simple, dark coat. His black hair fell slightly over his black eyes, which seemed to carry the weight of storms and sorrow. Something about him spoke of loss—of someone important long gone.
He stepped to the front, his gaze briefly sweeping over the class before speaking in a deep, even tone.
"My name is—"
(End of Chapter 44)