Guided by Aldric's vision, the trio ventured deeper into the island. The path became increasingly treacherous, but Aldric felt a guiding presence, as if Alarion's spirit was leading them. The air grew warmer, and the glow from the flora became more intense.
After hours of trekking through the dense forest, they arrived at a large, circular clearing. At the center stood a stone altar, covered in ancient runes that pulsed with a soft, golden light. Aldric knew immediately that this was the heart of Elaris.
"This is it," he said, stepping forward. "This is where we'll find the first key."
Thane examined the runes, his eyes narrowing in concentration. "These runes are a form of ancient magic, older than any I've seen. We must decipher them to unlock the key."
Aldric placed his hands on the altar, feeling the magic thrumming beneath his fingers. He closed his eyes and focused, allowing his own magic to flow into the runes. Slowly, they began to glow brighter, and the ground beneath them trembled.
Elysia and Thane watched in awe as the runes rearranged themselves, forming a new pattern. A beam of light shot from the altar into the sky, and a shimmering portal appeared before them.
Aldric opened his eyes, breathing heavily. "The key is through there."
Without hesitation, they stepped through the portal, finding themselves in a vast, cavernous chamber filled with crystals that glowed with an inner light. At the center of the chamber was a pedestal, and atop it rested a small, ornate box.
Aldric approached the pedestal, his heart pounding. He reached out and carefully lifted the box. The moment he touched it, a wave of energy surged through him, and the box opened to reveal a crystal shard, glowing with an intense, ethereal light.
"This is the first key," Thane said, his voice reverent. "A piece of the Eternal Echo."
Aldric held the shard, feeling its power resonate with his own. He knew that this was just the beginning of their journey, but he felt a new sense of confidence and determination.
"We have the first key," he said, looking at Elysia and Thane. "Now we must find the others and stop Morgath."
Elysia smiled, her eyes filled with pride. "We'll do it together, Aldric. Every step of the way."
As they left the chamber and the island of Elaris behind, Aldric felt a newfound strength. He was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that with his friends by his side and the guidance of the ancient mages, they could overcome anything.
The journey to save Thaloria had truly begun.