Just an idea, how about finding a darker, more stormy sky? I'm thinking of a contrast between light and dark, which might make the portal seem more of a ray of hope, and also drawing the viewer's attention to the main focus of the scene (yes, the portal). I like the portal better now, but I'm not so sure about the aura around it... It's nice to see such a nice progression in a good image like this one. The next incarnation of this pic will be interesting to behold indeed. =)