As he spoke, Markus began adding his own markings to the enchanted board, his additions flowing seamlessly into Ashcroft's original design. The pattern grew more complex, geometric precision giving way to organic flow as theoretical knowledge translated into practical application.
"Unlike our modern Mana magic, which focuses on single elemental principles," Markus continued, his confidence growing as the seal took shape, "Aether has no fixed formula. It can manifest in any pattern, adapt to any need, reshape itself according to the practitioner's will and understanding."
The completed seal pulsed with contained energy as Markus channeled his mana into its structure. For a moment, nothing happened, then the air above the pattern began to shimmer and twist, reality bending as magical forces responded to the theoretical framework.
