Breakthrough
In a dimly lit room, a silver-haired boy sat cross-legged on the ground right next to a large bed.
"Haa! Haaaaa! Haa!"
His heart was slamming hard against his chest as if it was about to burst out, making his breathing ragged.
Despite the sweat drenching his tank top and slacks and the sensation of needles piercing his skin pores, he persevered with his eyes firmly shut.
He clenched his teeth and gritted through the pain until a sudden, searing sensation engulfed his abdomen as if it was set on fire.
"Mrghhhh!"
Thankfully, the boy had the foresight to bite down on a towel, muffling what would have been an agonizing beastly scream.
Fwoo—
Thud—
Suddenly, white steam began to emanate from his body, and the boy collapsed onto the ground, completely devoid of any and all strength or will to even twitch his muscles.
"Aaah! Haaa! Haaa!"