Chapter 9: Ch9: The Error
The silver energy needle dug into Mo Bai's back — no blood, no scream. The large man began engraving the right side of Mo Bai's back from top to bottom with meticulous care.
His gaze never shifted. Eyes locked on the skin before him, he traced the flowing lines with steady hands, drawing a pattern akin to a tattoo.
'I can't feel anything. This sedative is really strong... I don't even want to imagine what this would feel like without it,' thought Mo Bai, his body completely paralyzed, yet his mind running endlessly.
Time passed slowly.
Half an hour of silence, save for the sound of energy etching into flesh. The man carved without pause, fully immersed in his work. At last, he straightened up.
"The first engraving to enhance your body is complete," he said, flexing his stiff fingers. "You still feel nothing because of the sedative. I gave you a strong dose — you'll need it. I'm going to give you two engravings, not one."
'Good. One more to go,' Mo Bai thought, a flicker of satisfaction passing through his mind, though his face remained expressionless.
While Mo Bai quietly advanced his strength in his own way, far across the compound, Mo Shen sat cross-legged in a private underground room.
On a mat of fine wool, his eyes closed, his presence calm and tranquil.
Then, a soft knock at the door — so gentle, one would miss it unless fully focused.
Mo Shen opened his eyes instantly.