In my experience aether is ... well. . .
Aether is when you make a fancy gadget but can't explain why it works so you say "It runs on aether." And then you stick some LED lights in it.
~ the Anachronism Guild ~
The guild for lovers of Steampunk, other Anachronisms and the Victorian Age — be you Dashing Adventurer or Airship Pirate, all are welcome!