Chapter 27 : The Aether Gatherer's Leap
Lyra, the elven scout, returned after several hours spent navigating the dark tunnels. She arrived in silence at the cave entrance, where Tian Heng was immersed in deep meditation beside one of the steadily humming condensers. Ilara and Faelar observed the functioning units or quietly trained in their designated area. Lyra waited patiently until Tian Heng completed his current training cycle.
When his eyes opened, there was no trace of surprise at her presence. He motioned for her to approach and deliver her report.
Lyra spoke in a low, steady voice, her sharp gaze carefully avoiding Lilith, who watched silently from a nearby shadow.
"The path you marked is viable. It passes through two areas where the upper rocks show slight instability, but they're navigable with caution. I encountered a small pack of crystal lizards but avoided them successfully. I located the unit you described—it's in a large, damp cavern. The exterior structure seems mostly intact, though entirely dormant and covered with dust and a thin layer of calcification. There are clear signs of a large underground water source feeding the cavern, but the water itself feels… stagnant. Dead."
Tian Heng nodded as he processed the report. Lyra's observations matched the map data and confirmed that the next objective was accessible.
"Good work," he said simply—the only praise he offered.
In the days that followed, work and training progressed rapidly. Two additional condensers were completed, bringing the total to three fully operational units, all steadily gathering droplets or small shards of highly purified condensed aether into their improved containment chambers. Tian Heng devised a method to store this precious output using one of the insulated metal boxes salvaged from the hidden chamber, lining it with additional materials per Ilara's suggestions.
But Tian Heng's main focus was his personal training. He fully immersed himself in studying and practicing the first stage of the Starfrost Fusion Technique. The method demanded a level of internal control and mental focus far beyond what he was used to. He had to draw pure aether from the crystals, compress and condense it within his dantian, and spin it into a complex pattern resembling a miniature frozen star—generating cold, sharp, incredibly refined energy.
At the end of a particularly intense training session, he felt a real breakthrough. The spinning Starseed abruptly stabilized, emitting an internal flash of icy blue light. A wave of pure, disciplined power surged through his body, reinforcing his channels and refining his essence.
[Core, status evaluation,] he commanded, a cold eagerness in his thoughts.
The response confirmed what he felt:
[...Initial principles of Starfrost Fusion Technique successfully assimilated. Condensation and refinement thresholds for current stage achieved. Current user rank: Aether Gatherer (Peak Level). Base affinity has increased by an additional 1.9% (relative to post-Novice levels). Internal aether purity and precision control have risen significantly. User is now eligible to attempt breakthrough to 'Core Forger' level when suitable conditions and techniques are acquired.]
Aether Gatherer – Peak Level! He had reached the pinnacle of the second major tier. A moderate leap—but a decisive one in terms of power.
Tian Heng opened his eyes, feeling the change resonating through every cell in his body. As he stood, he noticed that every breath he exhaled in the aether-rich air of the cave now released a faint white mist, as if he were breathing frost. It was the result of the cold, refined energy now circulating within him.
He wanted to see tangible proof of the transformation. Walking toward the nearest cave wall, he paused briefly, then pressed his right palm directly onto the cool stone. Focusing his will, he channeled a stream of freshly refined, cold aether from his dantian, through his arm, into his hand.
In an instant, with a soft hiss, a thick layer of pure white ice spread from the point of contact, covering a shield-sized area of rock in the blink of an eye. The ice crystals gleamed with cold brilliance in the ambient aether-light. It wasn't an explosive force—but a rapid, controlled, and chilling freeze. He lifted his hand, leaving behind a perfectly formed frost print.
He nodded with cold satisfaction. It wasn't yet a devastating power, but it was control—a clear sign that the Starfrost Fusion Technique was altering the nature of the aether he wielded, making it sharper, colder, and more lethally efficient. His movements felt quicker and more precise, and his senses more attuned to the subtle flows of surrounding aether.
Lilith noticed the change instantly, as did the elves. A flicker of crimson widened in Lilith's eyes, and a twisted smile of pride touched her lips.
"Master grows stronger..." she murmured, just barely audible. "Soon… you'll be beyond compare." Even the elves, especially Ilara, gave him sidelong glances filled with a mix of awe and rising caution. He was advancing with alarming speed for a mere human.
Thanks to this newfound strength and Lyra's clear report, the next objective was both obvious and inevitable: the Water Purification Unit. Securing a clean, continuous water source would be a fundamental step toward making the vault a livable space long-term—and essential for any future plans involving other inhabitants.
Tian Heng gathered his small team.
"Lyra, you'll lead the way to the purification unit. Lilith, you're coming with me for protection. Ilara, Faelar—you stay here. Guard the cave, continue overseeing condenser operation and output collection."
He issued the orders with natural authority now, dividing the team to ensure security and efficiency.
No one objected. Lyra silently prepared, checking her arrows and light gear. Lilith stood by Tian Heng's side, ready and waiting, her dark aura pulsing with anticipation. Tian Heng gathered his tools, took a small supply of the condensed aether (he might need it to try activating the unit), and packed his renewed provisions of water and fungus.