Chapter 8: The Sky-Skipper
"How do we get across the cloud sea?" Rohan asked, looking at the vast gap between the islands.
Pip let out a sharp whistle. From behind a giant purple leaf, a strange machine glided forward. It looked like a wooden boat, but instead of sails, it had large, shimmering wings made of light.
"This is the Sky-Skipper," Pip announced proudly. "It runs on starlight and bravery. Since you have both, it should fly quite well."
Rohan stepped onto the wooden deck. As soon as his hand touched the railing, the boat hummed with energy. The silver key in his pocket began to glow, and the boat's wings expanded. Suddenly, they were off, soaring through the indigo sky.
Rohan felt the wind in his hair—it smelled like jasmine and electricity. Below them, a herd of crystal dragons soared through the clouds. But the joy was short-lived. A sudden screech echoed from the dark clouds behind them.
"Winged Scouts!" Pip yelled, pointing at three dark shapes diving toward them. They looked like giant bats with glowing red eyes. "Rohan, grab the helm! We need to dive into the Mist-Canyon!"
Rohan grabbed the steering wheel, his heart pounding. The adventure in Aetheria had truly begun, and the enemies were already closing in.