Archive of Our Own

In the cultivation world, hidden knowledge is usually reserved for those with the skill—or just the guts—to figure it out. Talismans aren't just drawn; they’re infused with energy. After all, Yiling Laozu, Wei Wuxian, is a total genius! Readers, you’re basically becoming disciples yourselves: you’ll need to study these talismans to keep up with what Wei-gongzi is plotting or what’s actually going down in the scene.

Runes are a fascinating system that blends ancient history with symbolic meaning. They weren't actually designed as mystical tools; they started as a practical alphabet used by Germanic and Scandinavian people from the 2nd century all the way to the Middle Ages. Don't worry, though! You’re not going to accidentally summon any evil spirits you have to fight.

Don’t forget to scan the QR codes to experience the story in a more traditional format!