In the morning, Elda ensured that Aric was well-prepared for the journey, having packed all necessary items the night before. They had a hearty breakfast to start the day, a final meal in the comfort of their home.
The villagers gathered to bid Aric farewell, offering him small gifts and well-wishes for his journey. Aric felt a mix of excitement and sadness as he left the place he had always called home.
"Goodbye, everyone. Thank you for taking care of me. We'll meet again at the end of the year," Aric said, his voice tinged with emotion.
With those words, Aric and Elda began their walk through the enchanted forest surrounding Moonshadow Glen. The forest was alive with magical creatures and plants, and the path was illuminated by the soft glow of magical lights embedded in the trees.
Elda used her magic to ensure they followed the safest and most efficient route through the forest. The path was well-trodden but still retained a sense of mystery and wonder.
"How often do you go to the city, Elda?" Aric asked, breaking the silence.
"Not that often anymore," Elda replied, smiling. "But that doesn't mean I don't remember. You think we're lost, do you?"
Aric laughed. "Nooo, I don't think it's like that."
After a few hours of walking, they arrived at an ancient portal stone hidden deep within the forest. The portal stone was a large, flat rock inscribed with runes that glowed faintly with residual magic.
Elda chanted an incantation, "TRAVELIO," and tapped her wand on the portal stone, causing the runes to light up brightly. A shimmering portal opened, revealing a swirling vortex of colors.
"Let's go, Aric. This is your first time, right?" Elda asked.
"Let's go, Elda," Aric replied, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Elda reassured Aric as they stepped into the portal together. The sensation was disorienting at first, as if they were being pulled through a tunnel of light and color. The portal transported them across vast distances in the blink of an eye. Aric felt a rush of magical energy coursing through him during the transit.
They emerged from the portal in a designated portal station within Arcana. The station was bustling with activity, as other travelers arrived and departed through similar portals.
"Wow," Aric said, looking around in amazement. "This is amazing and so different. Not so green like the forest."
Elda smiled at his wonder. "Welcome to Arcana, Aric. This is just the beginning of your journey. There's so much more to see and experience."