The only fool proof RC that has worked for me since I began my Lucid venture is the classic nose pinch/breath. when I pinch my arm I feel pain, dreaming or no, I still haven't managed to put my hands through anything and my hands have always looked normal in my dream, but I still try them regardless. I would recommend going through a list of RC's for your next Lucid, there are bound to be at least a few RC's that should work.

You also said that the 9 had faded when you checked it. I would make sure that I knew the 9 was there and well marked prior to going to bed, that way if you check it in a dream and there's no sign of it, you can be sure that you are dreaming. I wouldn't think a well marked 9 could fade during sleep if you catch my drift.