Chapter 001: Preface - Single-handedly Challenging the Aristocracy
"How could it be him?" Wen Zifu looked at the black-clad youth standing proudly in the Wen family courtyard, secretly admiring the graceful young man. Although he did not know the youth, they had brushed past each other before entering the city, leaving a deep impression on Wen Zifu due to his inability to discern the youth's strength. Zhou Yan had sword-like brows and starry eyes, with red lips and white teeth. He was tall but did not appear imposing, especially with the cold and proud expression on his face, as if nothing in the world was worthy of his attention.
"Today, all members of the Wen family must die!" Zhou Yan said coldly, forming hand seals and casting several fireballs, forcing the members of the Wen family who were trying to sneak away to return. Some of the Wen family members glared at Zhou Yan with hatred in their eyes, while others trembled and shrank back, not daring to look at him.
When Wen Zifu was fourteen years old, it is unclear what kind of stimulation he received, but he quietly left home without a word and has since been out of contact. Naturally, the Wen family did not make a fuss over a useless offspring; they pretended to search for two days without any news and then ceased to mention the matter, as if Wen Zifu had never existed in this world. Poor Wen Zifu's mother, having not only lost her status but also her beloved son, wept day and night. Within just six months, she had become a mere shadow of her former self, reduced to skin and bones, devoid of any trace of her once remarkable beauty.
The saying goes, "A child prodigy may not necessarily excel in adulthood." Wen Zifu is a typical example of this. In his early years, he was intelligent and had a remarkable memory, but by the age of seven or eight, he gradually became ordinary. Even more disappointing was that, as the heir of the Wen family, he was unable to learn the family's secret art of talismans. It was not until he was in his early teens that his half-brother, Wen Zixing, rose to prominence, mastering the art of talismans at the tender age of five, becoming the new hope of the Wen family.
Zhou Yan's face was expressionless and cold, showing no signs of emotion. He said coldly, "So, it seems that your Wen family has no outstanding individuals left. Since you cannot make this young master happy, you all might as well die!" As he spoke, he drew symbols with his right hand and formed seals with his left, chanting incantations. One by one, fireballs the size of basins continuously gathered and took shape in front of him, then flew towards the members of the Wen family who were on guard against him.
After waiting for a while, Zhou Yan scoffed and said, "Indeed, useless people are useless; they can't even muster the courage to fight for their lives. Then let me send you on your way!" After saying this, he took out a blue talisman, ignited it with spiritual energy, formed hand seals, and recited incantations. Three fireballs, each the size of a person’s embrace, appeared in response and flew towards the Kingdom of Wending according to his will.
The young boy in the void drew symbols, forming seals with both hands while chanting incantations. Suddenly, the onlookers in front of him were pushed aside by an irresistible force, stumbling to create a pathway. The boy then leisurely walked through the opening in the crowd and came to a stop in front of the gate of the Wen family.
Although Wen Zifu heard the discussions of the common people around him, he paid them no mind. He had grown up listening to the disdainful remarks of the Zhou servants for the past ten years, especially after he lost his inheritance at the age of ten. The maids and servants became even more unrestrained, speaking without any regard for him, even in his presence. If it were not for his innocent and pitiful mother, he might have left home long ago. However, the years spent growing up amidst ridicule had forged his will into something remarkably resilient, making him naturally indifferent to the irrelevant comments of the surrounding populace. If it were not for his innocent and pitiful mother, he might have left home long ago. However, the years spent growing up amidst ridicule had forged his will into something remarkably resilient, making him naturally indifferent to the irrelevant comments of the surrounding populace.
Luojiang City is a small town located in the eastern coastal area of the Dazhe Dynasty. Today marks the town's market day, which occurs every three days. Suddenly, a commotion erupted in the bustling streets: "Hurry and take a look! The heir of the Zhou family, who was exterminated by the Wen family, has come to seek revenge! A young man has declared that he will single-handedly annihilate the Wen family!"
Despite his decades of experience and composure, Wen Dingguo was infuriated by the arrogance of the young light beauty before him. The Wen family had a well-established reputation in Luojiang City, and he, Wen Dingguo, was known as the foremost expert in the city. Having been humiliated and mocked repeatedly by a mere boy, he spoke with a tone laced with threat: "Though my talent is lacking and I have lived nearly sixty years without stepping into the threshold of a blue-level talisman master, the Wen family has a legacy spanning hundreds of years, with countless blue-level talismans preserved within our clan. Even if it costs me my life, I can still cast a blue-level spiritual spell beyond my rank. I believe that at your young age, you will find it difficult to escape death, won't you?"
At this moment, in front of the beautiful young man stood a large group of men and women on high alert. The leader, an elderly man with white hair and beard, snorted coldly and said: "Ignorant child, how dare you speak so arrogantly? My Wen family has a legacy spanning hundreds of years, and even your Zhou family has been defeated by us. Now, a mere fish that has slipped through the net dares to boast about exterminating my entire family. Do you truly believe that my Wen family has no one left?"
Since the legitimate eldest son is unable to practice the art of talismans, the Wen family, which has passed down the secret methods of talismans, naturally cannot allow Wen Zifu to be the heir. When Wen Zifu was ten years old, Wen Dingguo made a decisive decision to strip him of his inheritance rights and began to focus on cultivating his younger brother, Wen Zixing. There is a saying that a mother’s status rises with her child’s success; since Wen Zixing has become the hope of the Wen family, his mother’s status naturally rose as well, elevating her from a mere concubine to the position of the legitimate wife. In contrast, Wen Zifu’s mother became the target of ridicule and scorn from the household servants and maids.
Little did he know that Zhou Yan still did not take the threat from the Wen family to heart, arrogantly stating: "Indeed, you are nothing but dregs. Lacking in personal strength, you can only rely on your heritage. You, a mere Yellow-level talisman master, even if you risk your life to unleash a Blue-level spirit spell, what does it matter? It is merely seeking your own demise. I have heard that your Wen family has a genius who could speak at six months and could recite scriptures at three years old. Why has he not come out? Perhaps he is the only one in your Wen family who can contend with me!"
The middle-aged man was taken aback to find that his most powerful strike had no effect at all, exclaiming, "How is this possible? Although my Lightning Strike is merely a fifth-tier spell, in the entire Luojiang City, there is no one who can withstand such an attack without dodging or evading!"
As the middle-aged man saw the fireball flying towards him, he hurriedly took out a yellow talisman again, intending to cast a spell to protect himself. However, the fireball was coming in too quickly; just as he managed to retrieve the talisman, the fireball had already reached him. In a moment of urgency, Wen Dingguo, who had been standing at the front of the crowd, let out a loud shout and swiftly executed a hand seal, narrowly deflecting the fireball and saving the middle-aged man's life
Zhou Xiaoyou, since you yourself have stated that you have no interest in revenge, why not let this matter pass? The Wen family will certainly respond to any requests in the future!" Wen Dingguo clasped his hands together, and although he spoke words of concession, there was no trace of unwillingness or dissatisfaction on his face. Just now, in order to save his son, he had used his spiritual power to split the fireball emitted by Zhou Yan, and at this moment, his spiritual energy was still in turmoil, having sustained some internal injuries from that encounter.
The art of talismanic spells has been passed down from Zhang Tianshi for ten thousand years, and few have succeeded in casting spells beyond their level. It is important to understand that casting a spell depends not only on the caster's spiritual power and mindset but also on their hand seals, with luck being the most crucial factor. If one is fortunate enough, it is not impossible to cast a spell beyond their level. However, every talisman master who attempts to do so ultimately faces severe consequences, ranging from complete depletion of spiritual power, loss of limbs, to paralysis or even death. Therefore, casting spells beyond one's level is a gamble that should only be employed in dire circumstances.
Suddenly, a gaunt woman burst out from the backyard, which had originally been protected by the talisman master. She stumbled towards Zhou Yan, as if she might collapse at any moment, and stopped just a short distance away, not daring to take another step. With a face full of hope, she looked at the entrance where someone was standing with arms crossed, watching Zhou Yan perform the talisman with great interest, and asked, "My dear child, is it you? At last, I have seen you."
Upon encountering such an exceptionally talented young man, the Wen family was undoubtedly thrilled. It is important to understand that becoming a talisman master requires not only a steadfast will but also extensive knowledge, outstanding intellect, and other essential qualities. At that time, Wen Dingguo, who had just assumed the position of head of the Wen family, was overjoyed and immediately decided that the next heir would be Wen Zifu, while Wen Zifu's father was instead stripped of his inheritance rights
Master! Master... Grandfather..." Witnessing the tragic death of their family head, the members of the Wen family fell into further chaos. Some individuals stealthily moved towards the back courtyard, hoping to seize the opportunity to escape, while others rushed to the spot where Wen Dingguo had met his demise, harboring a glimmer of hope. They thought to themselves, how could the esteemed master, the foremost expert in Luojiang City, be killed by a mere youth in a single blow
In the hearts of those who tread the earth, the Book of Talismans passed down by Master Zhang is regarded as the source of all things in the world. If a person is unable to study the Book of Talismans, then he will merely live his life as an ordinary commoner. Naturally, the Wen family, with its centuries of heritage, would not acknowledge the existence of Wenzi Talisman within their lineage.
Wen Dingguo took out a blue talisman from his pocket, channeling spiritual energy to ignite the talisman. He repeatedly formed hand seals and recited the incantation: "Heaven and Earth are boundless, the universe grants its power, hasten as commanded! Five thunders strike from above! Swift!"
You are no match for him, so step back!" At the command of Wen Dingguo, the middle-aged man reluctantly bowed and retreated to his family, remaining on guard against any further attacks from Zhou Yan
Thinking of this, Wending Guo said coldly: "What use is there in bringing up that waste? Everyone knows he is merely a useless person who cannot practice spiritual spells. No matter how clever he is, it is merely a perverse way of thinking."
The handsome young man Zhou Yan gave a cold smile and disdainfully said: "Wen Dingguo, if the Wen family only possesses this level of strength, then I would have no qualms about wiping out your entire clan. I originally had no interest in revenge, but unfortunately, my mother entrusted me with this task before her passing. Even if it is merely a formality, your Wen family must show some strength."
In front of the Wen family's main gate, observing the playful smile on Wen Dingguo's face as he formed hand seals for the spell, he muttered to himself: "Do you really think everyone can cast spells beyond their level? Moreover, the sequence of the hand seals is incorrect; it would be impressive if he could even produce a sound!"
When the young man arrived at the Wen family residence, it was already a sea of people. Curious onlookers surrounded the vast estate of the Wen family, making it impossible for anyone to pass through. Some stood on tiptoe, while others stood on stools to peer inside the Wen residence. Even more audacious individuals climbed the walls of the estate, sitting atop the walls, shouting and watching the battle unfolding within.
To understand the art of drawing symbols in the void, one must recognize that it significantly diminishes the power of spiritual spells. Even among the five silver talisman masters currently in the earthly realm, none would dare claim that the spells they cast through void symbol drawing would not be weakened in the slightest. As the foremost powerhouse of Luojiang City and a ninth-level talisman master, Huang has already stepped into the realm of blue-level talisman masters. He is acutely aware that Zhou Yan's recent action is not to be taken lightly. If Zhou Yan were to become serious, the Wen family would likely face the calamity of extermination. Therefore, he had no choice but to lower his stance and request Zhou Yan to abandon his plans for revenge. After all, having been the head of a prominent family for nearly twenty years, he possesses the composure to maintain a calm facade.
Hearing the opponent mention his useless grandson, Wen Dingguo's expression changed unpredictably. It is well known that Wen Zifu is unable to practice the Wen family's thunder-based spiritual spells. Why would the opponent bring this up at this moment? Could it be that he is merely trying to humiliate the Wen family by saying this?
Witnessing his brothers, nephews, and grandchildren being utterly defeated by Zhou Yan, Wen Dingguo felt his heart nearly shatter. He let out a loud roar, waving his hand to deflect the fireball aimed at Wen Xinghao. Looking at the family members lying on the ground, wailing in despair, he said with a face full of malice: "Since you are so resolute in your actions, I will risk my life to settle this score with you!"
"How could you be like this? Damn it, is this how Wen Xinghao treats his own wife?" Seeing his mother in such a haggard state, Wen Zifu couldn't help but feel a deep resentment. He had been so focused on watching the Wen family suffer that he forgot his mother was also living in the Wen household. The Wen Xinghao he mentioned was indeed his father. As for why Wen Zifu stood by and watched the Wen family perish without offering help, that reason must be explained from the beginning.
The old man Huang Jiujie has bowed his head in submission, and this Zhou Yan is likely at least of blue-level strength now! Wen Zifu, who is well aware of his grandfather's character, secretly thought to himself. He felt a sense of schadenfreude, knowing that the Wen family was doomed, and those who had once mocked and bullied him would not escape their fate of death.
A decade ago, there was a century-old family in Luojiang City—the Zhou family. Unfortunately, the Zhou family faced a decline in talent, was suppressed by the Wen family, and suffered attacks from bandits, ultimately leading to the interruption of their lineage. Unexpectedly, today, ten years later, a young man claiming to be the heir of the Zhou family has come to seek revenge.
Hello... that seems to be the young master of the Wen family, right? Wasn't he missing three years ago? How is he here now, and it seems he has become a talisman master? The onlookers who were pushed aside by the young man dared not harbor any resentment towards the talisman master; they could only accept their misfortune. Some well-informed citizens recognized the young man's identity and proudly began to share the unique aspects of the young master of the Wen family with those nearby.
Waste has no right to negotiate terms with me. If you wish for me to spare you, it is not impossible, but you must demonstrate your strength. If you manage to please me, I, this young master, will grant you a chance at survival, ants! Zhou Yan's cold, expressionless face showed no change, yet his words were exceptionally arrogant. It must be noted that the Wen family is the overlord of Luojiang City, with numerous talisman masters. Although they cannot be compared to the millennium-old families of the great dynasties, no one in Luojiang City has ever dared to speak of the Wen family in such a contemptible manner.
The Thunder Strike of the Fifth Level is nothing more than that!" Zhou Yan said coldly, clearly not taking the spell above his head seriously. He did not dodge or evade as the dark clouds rolled, and a bolt of lightning, about the thickness of a pinky finger, struck towards him. It only created a ripple about three inches in front of him before vanishing without a trace
"You insolent fool! Speak such wild words, and I shall teach you a lesson!" A middle-aged man in a blue robe suddenly emerged from behind Wen Dingguo. He took out a yellow talisman from his bosom, and with a slight exertion of spiritual power, the talisman ignited in flames. He repeatedly formed hand seals and chanted: "Heaven and Earth are boundless, the universe borrows the law! Thunderfall technique!" (This line is truly classic!) In an instant, a dark cloud began to swirl incessantly above Zhou Yan's head, and a faint sound of thunder could be heard. He chanted again: "Heaven and Earth are boundless, the universe borrows the law! Thunderfall technique!" (This line is truly classic!) In an instant, a dark cloud began to swirl incessantly above Zhou Yan's head, and a faint sound of thunder could be heard.
Zhou Yan disdainfully remarked, "Scum is just scum. Do you really think that a mere fifth-tier spell makes you invincible? Truly a frog at the bottom of a well!" He then drew symbols in the air with his right hand while forming hand seals with his left. Without uttering any incantations, a fireball the size of a basin materialized before him. With a gesture of his left hand pointing towards the middle-aged man, the fireball swiftly flew forward under his mental control
To speak of the Wen family, it is truly remarkable, being the most prestigious and prominent family in Luojiang City, with a legacy spanning several hundred years. The family boasts an abundance of talisman masters, and the current clan leader, Wen Dingguo, is even a ninth-tier yellow-level talisman master, just one step away from entering the ranks of blue-level talisman masters. It is important to note that becoming a talisman master not only depends on talent but also on the practitioner's own willpower. Although yellow-level is considered the lowest rank for talisman masters, most talisman masters remain at the fifth or sixth tier of yellow-level. A ninth-tier yellow-level talisman master is already the foremost expert in Luojiang City.
The people of the mortal realm possess an inherent tendency to watch the spectacle. The servants and common folk of Zhuang, who were idly wandering in Luojiang City, heard this shout and flocked towards the Wen family, eager to see how the heir of the Zhou family had single-handedly slaughtered the entire Wen clan
A young man, around seventeen or eighteen years old, of medium height and dressed in a deep blue robe, gently set down the object in his hand. He glanced towards the Wen family, let out a cold smile, and muttered to himself: "Well, it’s just a stroll anyway; since I have nothing to do, I might as well go see how the Wen family is being humiliated." After saying this, he lifted his foot and headed towards the Wen family in the western city, clearly very familiar with the surroundings of Luojiang City.
The ground-level talismanic spells are divided into five categories: Thunder, Fire, Wind, Water, and Earth. Among these, the Thunder category possesses the strongest attack power and is the most difficult to cultivate. Generally, a ninth-level Thunder talisman master, when considering attack power alone, surpasses the attack power of most blue-level talisman masters. It is said that a thousand years ago, the sage Zhang Tianshi used the Nine Thunder Pearl technique to vanquish deities, which illustrates the formidable attack power of Thunder talismans.
"Shh... be quiet, or if the young master hears you, you might end up with a beating that leaves you bruised and battered." A man whispered softly, fearing that the disrespectful words about the former wasteful young master would reach his ears.
This week, Yan seems to have acquired formidable fire-based spells from an unknown source. Although he is young, his strength surpasses that of the members of the Wen family by a considerable margin. The members of the Wen family, though cautious and on guard, with some even casting defensive spells, are unable to withstand the fireballs in the slightest. One by one, they cry out in anguish as they are struck by the fireballs, collapsing to the ground and rolling in agony
At this moment, Wen Dingguo had already been locked onto by Zhou Yanling's spiritual power. There was no way to evade the three rapidly approaching fireballs. In a cry of unwillingness, Wen Dingguo was struck consecutively by the three fireballs, turning into a cloud of dust
The young master of the Wen family is named Wen Zifu, and he is the legitimate eldest son of the Wen family. Remarkably, he was able to speak just half a year after his birth. Strangely, his first words were not "father" or "mother," but rather the phrase "your sister," and he pronounced it clearly and accurately, unlike the typical babbling of infants whose speech is often indistinct and requires careful listening to understand. Before he was even one year old, Wen Zifu could already run and jump, and by the age of three, he was able to read classical texts fluently and express himself eloquently, often uttering astonishing remarks.
However, Wen Dingguo was unaware that he had made an error in the sequence of his hand seals; he merely thought that he was having bad luck. He hurriedly formed the seals again and recited the incantation once more, yet there was still no response. Unwilling to give up, Wen Dingguo repeated the hand seals countless times and recited the incantation innumerable times, but ultimately, he achieved nothing.
Isn't this Wen Zifu just a useless person who cannot practice the art of spells? Why does it now seem that he possesses extraordinary skills?" asked another villager who knew Wen Zifu's background well.