The Aether Ring was the first measurable structure of resonance.
Most disciples formed it through repetition—cycling sound until it condensed into a stable loop around the dantian.
Vale failed three times.
On the fourth attempt, he did not circulate sound at all.
Instead, he compressed absence.
Breathing steadily, he recalled Elder Rin's words: contrast creates vibration.
Where others pushed outward, Vale reduced inward space.
Pressure formed—not forceful, but exact.
A thin ring appeared.
Not bright.
Not audible.
Barely there.
Yet it did not waver.
Master Halden watched in silence as the ring stabilized.
"That ring won't amplify techniques," he said finally.
Vale nodded. "I know."
"It will resist them instead."
Vale's fingers trembled slightly. "Is that… allowed?"
Halden considered this.
"The Covenant measures results," he said. "Not understanding."
He turned away.
"Do not show this to anyone yet."