Chapter 111: Whispers in the Canopy

Months bled into years. Louis and Amelia, no longer strangers in a strange land, had become integrated into Aethel's diverse society. They had trained alongside Xylos's kind, the Aethen, a race of stoic warriors known for their unwavering loyalty and mastery over elemental magic. Their days were filled with rigorous training sessions, mastering the art of wielding Aethel's unique energies to defend against the predatory species that occasionally encroached on their territory. They learned to ride colossal, six-legged creatures called Striders, their natural armor and impressive speed making them invaluable mounts in battle. However, Aethel wasn't all training and combat. They explored the breathtaking landscapes, marveled at the bioluminescent flora that pulsed with otherworldly light at night, and learned to appreciate the unique customs and traditions of the Aethen people. One evening, as they sat by a crackling fire with Xylos beneath the vibrant canopy of an Aethean N