The runes gathered around Lin Mu, circling him in ever tightening layers. Each rune moved with purpose, slotting into place with a precision that suggested a will behind them. Lin Mu remained still, observing, allowing the process to unfold without resistance.
Within moments, the density of the runes increased to such an extent that the elders standing behind him disappeared from view. It was as if a veil had been drawn between them. The space around Lin Mu grew brighter, the runes overlapping and interweaving until they formed a shimmering cocoon.
The cocoon did not remain static.
It compressed.
Slowly at first, then with increasing speed, the countless runes converged inward.
Their chaotic motion settled into order as they condensed into a dome shaped structure that enclosed Lin Mu entirely. From the outside, his figure could still be seen, faintly outlined within the translucent shell of symbols.
From within, however, the world beyond had vanished.
