In the oppressive, cramped woodshed, a boy tied to a pillar screamed incessantly, tortured by his own parents. His cries were so pitiful that even Li Huowang found it unbearable.
After a while, the iron frame that was being pulled finally loosened. The boy's head slumped to the side as he took the rare opportunity to gasp for air.
The brightly dressed couple hastily crouched down, scrutinizing their son's lower body with great attention.
"How is it? Does it work?"
Upon hearing the woman's question, the man carefully measured with his fingers and then said with a disheartened expression, "It won't do! We can't delay any longer. We must lock it, or it will be too late!"
The child, his hair soaked with sweat, was startled upon hearing this and pleaded with a crying voice, "Dad, I don't want the lock, I don't want the lock!"
The man could hardly bear it either, but he ultimately let out a sigh and gently stroked his child's head.