A holographic representation of an Aether Awakening Ceremony appeared.
It showed Aether practitioners meditating, their Aether Wisps emerging in dazzling displays of light and energy.
“To become an Aether Practitioner, individuals undergo a ceremony involving meditative practices, soul reflection, and sometimes the use of AetherTech devices to stimulate the soul. This process is guided by experienced mentors and performed at specialized sanctuaries.”
Professor Elara continued to outline the stages of mind cultivation: Wisp Awakening, Wisp Blooming, Wisp Mastery, Aether Ascendance, and Aether Sovereignty.
Each stage had its requirements and challenges, with practitioners striving to deepen their connection with their Aether Wisps and harness their full potential.
Aron took notes, his neural link fabric recording every detail. Although he was already familiar with much of this information, it was helpful to review the fundamentals. When Professor Elara opened the floor for questions, Aron raised his hand.
“Professor Elara, could you elaborate on the role of AetherTech enhancements during the Wisp Blooming stage?” he asked. His voice was steady, but he could feel the curious glances from the other students.
Professor Elara looked slightly surprised but smiled warmly. “Certainly. During the Wisp Blooming stage, AetherTech enhancements can play a crucial role in strengthening your Aether Wisps. These devices can amplify your meditation practices, provide real-time feedback on your progress, and even integrate with your daily routines to ensure continuous development. It’s a symbiotic relationship where technology and mysticism converge.”
Aron nodded, satisfied with the answer. Why do these devices sound like my neural link fabric to me? I wonder if there’s a way for me to upgrade my “cheat ability” here,’ Aron thought to himself before focusing on the lecture.
The class continued with more detailed discussions on each stage of mind cultivation, the societal structure, and the integration of AetherTech in daily life.
The Aksai part hidden within Aron felt like a studious student. It was as if he got to enjoy his school years all over again. He decided to make the most of it and gather as much knowledge he could.
After attending various classes, Aron went to his dorm room and processed everything he had learned. He then took some precautionary measures before going back to Everwood farm. There, he handed the information to the original Aksai before teleporting back to Acarnis, in his dorm room.
***
The next day was no different.
Another day. Another lecture.
The lecturer, a tall man with salt-and-pepper hair and a distinguished aura, stood at the front of the room. He wore a sleek suit embedded with subtle AetherTech enhancements, and his sharp blue eyes scanned the room with a mix of authority and enthusiasm.
‘No way. Is that the same guy who had killed the first clone?’ Aron was a bit surprised in his heart as he recognized the lecturer. Even though the armored man who had killed Aksai’s first clone had most of his features hidden, Aron could tell it was the same man because of the guy’s aura.
‘I shouldn’t overreact. He doesn’t know anything about me. I’m a completely new person at this point,’ Aron consoled himself before focusing on the ongoing lecture.
“Good afternoon, students,” he began, his voice resonating with a commanding presence. “I’m Professor Daelen, and today we’ll be discussing Aether crystals and their pivotal role in powering AetherTech devices.”
He gestured to the spectral screen behind him, which displayed a rotating 3D model of an Aether crystal, its facets shimmering with an inner light.
“Aether crystals are the lifeblood of our advanced society. These naturally occurring gems are rich in Aether energy, which can be harnessed for a variety of applications, from powering everyday gadgets to enhancing our mind cultivation practices.”
Aron leaned forward, his attention fully captured by the professor’s words. ‘Can I use these crystals in Dadangar? But how?’ he questioned himself.
“Aether crystals come in various grades and sizes,” Professor Daelen continued. “The most common types are used in basic devices, such as household appliances and personal electronics. Higher-grade crystals, however, are reserved for more powerful applications, like the AetherTech enhancements used in our cities and the cultivation aids employed by advanced practitioners.”
The screen shifted to show different types of Aether crystals, each with a brief description of its properties and uses. Aron noted the classifications, from common blue crystals to the rare and highly sought-after golden ones.
“These crystals are not merely power sources,” Professor Daelen explained. “They can resonate with the practitioner’s Aether Wisps, enhancing the user’s abilities and providing a more profound connection to their mind cultivation path. This resonance is what makes AetherTech so effective and indispensable in our society.”
He then demonstrated how Aether crystals were integrated into AetherTech devices, using a holographic display to dissect a personal Aether assistant. The crystal sat at the core, surrounded by intricate circuits and conduits designed to channel the Aether energy efficiently.
“Now, let’s discuss the process of refining Aether crystals,” Professor Daelen said, tapping the screen to bring up a new diagram. “Raw Aether crystals must be purified and processed to maximize their energy output. This involves a combination of advanced technology and ancient Aether techniques passed down through generations.”
Aron found the balance between technology and Aether cultivation fascinating, a testament to the unique nature of Acarnis society.
As Professor Daelen explained the refining process, Aron could see how the principles of Aether energy were deeply intertwined with the advancement of AetherTech.
“A key aspect of using Aether crystals is understanding their limitations and potential,” Professor Daelen said. “Overusing a crystal can lead to burnout, rendering it useless. Conversely, proper maintenance and mindful usage can extend its lifespan significantly.”
He then opened the floor to questions, and Aron, curious about the practical applications, raised his hand. “Professor, could you elaborate on how Aether crystals are integrated into combat AetherTech, like the drones and defenses we see around the school?”
The Aksai part in Aron wanted to enhance the effects of the Array Formations using the Aether Crystals. He did not know if it was possible. But he wanted to learn everything that he could before starting his own experiments back in Dadangar.
Professor Daelen nodded, a smile playing on his lips. “Excellent question. Combat AetherTech requires high-grade Aether crystals to power its sophisticated systems. These crystals are integrated into the core of the devices, providing the energy needed for advanced maneuvers, defensive shields, and offensive capabilities. The resonance between the crystal and the operator’s Aether Wisps is crucial for seamless control and optimal performance. As for how we actually use them? We use something known as Aether pathways to draw out–”
Daelen started explaining the process in detail. It seemed that the man was just glad that such a boring topic could be cherished by the younger generation so much. As such, he didn’t hold back and told Aron everything he knew.
Aron kept asking questions and getting appropriate answers for them. Some of his classmates started looking at him funny. They all knew Aron to be an average orphan who never so much as uttered a peep. He refused to talk to his fellow classmates as well.
How could such an antisocial person be this active? It was as if he was possessed by someone else. At least that’s what the other classmates said jokingly among each other in hushed voices.
Aron, on the other hand, ignored all the chatters around him. He appreciated the depth of the lecturer’s answers to his various questions.
As the lecture continued, he felt a growing sense of understanding about the fundamental role Aether crystals played in both everyday life and advanced mind cultivation. The seamless integration of these crystals into Acarnis society was a testament to their unparalleled importance.
Leaving the lecture hall, Aron pondered the vast potential of Aether crystals.
‘Can I use these crystals to level up the Devil’s Den itself?’
Aron had a thought as he retreated back into his dorm room.