The Book of Dark Mysteries

Shen Mo awakens in a cold burial pit inside an ancient tomb, surrounded by rotting cloth and whispering shadows. His memories lie in fragments, leaving only an unfamiliar name and a chill that cuts to the bone. He discovers that he is the defective remnant of a failed, profane ritual. A damaged and dangerous "Netherdeath Mystic Talisman" has been planted inside him. It grants him a faint power, but clings to him like a parasite, constantly draining his life force and dragging him toward a state that is neither living nor dead. Only by completing this forbidden talisman, which represents "the netherworld," "annihilation," and "stolen secrets," can he delay death and gain the means to stand against this bizarre world.

In the Ninefold Heavens, immortals and demons stand side by side, sects carve up the land, and the ancient struggle over the Dao has never ceased. Why did the legendary Heavenly Court collapse? What brought about the demise of the ancient dynasty buried underground? What manner of beings are the "banished immortals" who walk among mortals in grotesque forms? Shen Mo must cautiously make use of the uncanny abilities granted by each advancement of his talisman as he travels between bustling immortal cities, shadowy secret realms, deserted burial mounds, and distorted grotto-heavens. He joins the mysterious "Old Ink Pavilion," assumes multiple identities to navigate the great powers, uncovers the truth behind history, and seizes forbidden knowledge.

He comes from the depths of a tomb, quietly shifting the world's balance from a place no one knows. By the time the lofty Immortal Venerables, Demon Lords, and Sages finally notice this seemingly ordinary young man, Shen Mo has already taken control of the Nether Mystic Talisman. With a mortal body, he steals the authority of gods and demons and casts down every arrogant soul who dares look down on him.