Cage of the Puppeteer | COTE x Xianxia

I arrived at a smaller plateau, where the other initiates—now disciples—had gathered. The plateau was bustling with activity, a mixture of excitement and relief palpable in the air. At the center of the plateau was a long table, where a senior disciple was handing out robes, token medallions, and small pouches that seemed to hum faintly with Qi energy. These were the first tokens of our entry into the Nightshade Monastery.
I moved to the end of the line, taking my place behind a girl who stood just ahead of me. As she turned to glance at who was behind her, our eyes briefly met. Her expression shifted—her gaze sharpened, and for a split second, her widened eyes betrayed her recognition.
"You..." she murmured, her voice barely audible over the surrounding noise.
I remained silent, offering no acknowledgment beyond a faint nod. Her reaction wasn't unusual. After the trials, I had likely garnered some attention, though I hadn't paid much notice to the others during the labyrinth or the Circle of Shadows.
The girl hesitated as if debating whether to speak further but eventually turned back, her shoulders slightly tense. It seemed my presence alone was enough to disrupt her composure.
The line moved steadily, and soon it was her turn. She stepped forward, receiving her robes—a deep gray fabric shimmered faintly, resembling threads of shadow. Along with the robes, she was handed a token medallion engraved with the Monastery's emblem—a crescent moon partially veiled by a swirling mist. Finally, the senior disciple handed her a pouch. From it, a faint hum of energy leaked.
"Next," the senior disciple called, their voice steady but commanding.
I stepped forward, my expression neutral as the senior disciple's gaze settled on me. For a moment, their hand hovered over the items, as if gauging something about me. The air around us seemed to tense slightly before they handed me the same set of items.
"These are your robes," the senior disciple explained curtly. "Wear them at all times unless instructed otherwise. This medallion is your identification as a disciple of the Nightshade Monastery—do not lose it. The pouch contains basic Spirit Stones and a beginner's scroll with foundational information. Study it."
As I accepted the items handed to me by the senior disciple, I noticed an additional object tucked alongside the robe and medallion—a small, folded map. The map's material felt sturdy, yet it was as light as a feather, with intricate markings outlining the Monastery's expansive grounds. A distinct marking indicated the section where disciples resided, with my assigned dwelling highlighted in faint silver ink.
"This medallion," the senior disciple explained, gesturing toward the crescent moon-emblazoned token, "is more than identification. It also serves as a key. You'll need it to access certain areas of the Monastery, including your living quarters and designated training halls."
I nodded and slipped the medallion into a hidden pocket within the robe. Its weight was oddly reassuring, though the knowledge that it symbolized my affiliation with the Nightshade Monastery carried a weight of its own.
Lastly, the senior disciple handed me two bamboo slips. One bore the name Whisper of Shadows, while the other was inscribed with The Veil of Eternal Night.
"These are your first manuals," the senior disciple continued. "The first is The Veil of Eternal Night, a cultivation manual exclusive to the Nightshade Monastery. It is the foundational text for your journey here and represents the first of four volumes. Each volume corresponds to a cultivation realm, beginning with Qi Condensation and progressing to Nascent Soul. You will find detailed guidance within to help you harmonize with the Dao of Darkness and the Dao of Shadows."
He paused, gesturing to the second slip. "The second manual, Whisper of Shadows, is tailored specifically for Qi Condensation cultivators. It contains multiple techniques that are both practical and essential for survival and combat. These techniques are uniquely attuned to the attributes of shadow and darkness, ensuring you have the tools necessary to embody the Nightshade Monastery's teachings."
I examined the slips, feeling the faint hum of power radiating from them.
"Study them well. Mastery over these fundamentals is not only expected, but demanded if you wish to ascend within the Monastery. You are dismissed," the senior disciple concluded, their gaze sweeping over me one last time.
With my belongings secured, I unfurled the map to familiarize myself with the layout. The disciples' quarters were situated to the west of the Monastery grounds, a series of modest yet functional dwellings arranged in concentric circles. Each level of dwelling seemed to signify status, with outer circles assigned to newer disciples like me.
Noting the path to my quarters, I headed toward the marked area. As I started walking towards my destination, the girl who had been ahead of me was still standing nearby, adjusting her medallion. She glanced at me again, her curiosity evident.
"You... were incredible in the trials," she said, her voice steady but cautious. "Especially in the Circle of Shadows. I've never seen someone fight with such precision. What's your name?"
"Ayanokoji Kiyotaka," I replied simply, my tone devoid of inflection. It was the name ingrained in my medallion, and there was no need to deceive people if they were still going to find out the truth.
She hesitated, as though expecting me to elaborate, but when I didn't, she nodded slightly. "I'm Lian Hua," she said, her tone softening slightly. "I hope... we don't end up as rivals."
I offered no response, merely inclining my head before stepping away. The interaction was unnecessary, but it revealed that attention was already being drawn toward me. Whether this was an advantage or a hindrance remained to be seen.
The crowd had begun to disperse, disciples clutching their own robes, scrolls, and bamboo slips. Some whispered among themselves, glancing in my direction as I passed, but I paid them no mind.
The path to the disciples' quarters wound through a narrow corridor flanked by stone walls etched with glowing runes. The air grew cooler as I walked, the shadows around me seeming to deepen. When I arrived at the quarters, I found a small, unadorned building that matched the marking on my map. The medallion in my pocket vibrated faintly, and as I approached the door, it slid open with a soft hiss, responding to the token's presence.
Inside, the space was sparse but functional—a simple bed, a small desk, and shelves carved into the walls. A single crystal embedded in the ceiling emitted a soft, ambient glow, casting long shadows across the room. It wasn't luxurious, but it was enough.
My new home, huh?
Placing my belongings on the desk, I removed my old, tattered clothes and donned the new robe I had received. The fabric was far superior—soft against my skin and clearly crafted with meticulous care. It was a stark contrast to the rough clothing I had grown accustomed to.
Before I moved on to anything else, I picked up the beginner's scroll. Its contents were as expected: foundational information for new disciples, including the rules of the Monastery, descriptions of significant locations, and the expectations placed upon us. As I read through the text, I couldn't help but notice subtle loopholes woven into the rules. They seemed deliberate, perhaps offering opportunities for those perceptive enough to exploit them. For now, though, I saw no reason to act on them. Timing, after all, was everything.
Key locations mentioned in the scroll included the 'Hall of Resonance', the 'Abyssal Archive', and the 'Silent Area', all of which were accessible to disciples for cultivation and learning. However, there were also places off-limits to us new disciples, such as 'The Shrouded Halls', 'Ebonspire Peak', 'The Abyssal Vault', and the enigmatic and dangerous 'Obsidian Sanctum'. These forbidden areas were clearly not meant for the inexperienced, and the warnings in the scroll made that abundantly clear.
As an outer disciple, my status was at the lowest rank in the Monastery. To rise above this rank, one could either contribute significantly through missions, win the annual Eclipse Ascension tournament, or reach the 6th stage of Qi Condensation. Advancement wasn't just about cultivation—it was a test of resourcefulness, determination, and strength.
Outer disciples like me wore plain gray robes, but the scroll explained the distinctions in attire among the ranks. Inner disciples, those who had ascended through merit or cultivation, wore gray robes accented with dark blue trim along the edges and sleeves. During my time in the courtyard, I had seen over fifty of these disciples, each carrying an air of superiority.
Among them, I had also noticed a few disciples wearing gray robes with midnight black accents. These individuals stood apart—not just in appearance but in presence. These were core disciples, cultivators who had either reached the Foundation Establishment Realm or become direct students of the elders. They possessed strength far beyond someone like Fang's uncle, whom I had faced not long ago.
Even above the core disciples were the True Disciples, the personal protégés of the Sect Leader. Interestingly, their cultivation base wasn't a deciding factor; their position was earned through favor and merit rather than raw strength alone.
Beyond the disciples stood the elders, individuals like Sun Min and Mo Hong. According to the scroll, becoming an elder required reaching the Core Formation Realm, a significant milestone in cultivation. Elders with a Nascent Soul cultivation, like Sun Min and Mo Hong, clearly belonged to the sect's upper echelons, their strength unmatched by most within the Monastery.
Finally, the scroll hinted at the existence of the Ancestor, a figure even higher than the Sect Leader. The ancestor was described as a recluse, rarely seen, yet undeniably the ultimate authority within the Nightshade Monastery. The scroll didn't reveal much about his cultivation level, leaving me to wonder: What stage had the Sect Leader and Ancestor reached to stand at the pinnacle of the Monastery?
Setting the scroll aside, I turned my attention to one of the bamboo slips resting on the desk. The faint etching on its surface read Whisper of Shadows, a name that immediately piqued my interest. Picking it up, I felt its smooth texture, its weight heavier with the promise of knowledge.
Carefully unrolling the slip, I discovered the neatly inscribed text and intricate diagrams within. Despite my non-existing cultivation, the contents were written plainly enough to be understood through observation and intellectual deduction. The slip outlined seven techniques designed for Qi Condensation cultivators, each one distinct in purpose and application.
The text detailed how these techniques were crafted to complement one another, providing a versatile toolkit for combat and survival. While I lacked Qi to perform these techniques, the understanding alone was valuable, and I could feel my mind piecing together their potential applications.
Shadow Slip: A movement technique that allows the user to phase briefly into nearby shadows, effectively evading attacks or vanishing from sight. The diagrams showed figures seamlessly merging with the surrounding darkness—a skill that could turn the tide of any encounter.
Dark Veil: A defensive ability that generates a shield of shadow energy, capable of absorbing Qi based attacks. The descriptions emphasized its ability to protect against powerful cultivator strikes.
Silent Fang: An offensive maneuver focused on precision. Imbuing shadow energy into a concentrated strike would paralyze or weaken an opponent by disrupting their Qi flow. The illustrations depicted key points of impact on the human body for maximum efficiency.
Gloomfang Edge: A weapon-enhancing technique that infused shadow Qi into a blade, extending its range and adding a corrosive property to its strikes. The diagrams showed a sword surrounded by dark, crackling energy, capable of slicing through both defenses and flesh.
Shimmerstep: A deceptive movement ability that creates afterimages in dimly lit environments, confusing opponents and masking the user's true position. This would require exceptional footwork and timing, even for those with Qi.
Nightcaller's Grasp: A crowd-control technique that manifested tendrils of shadow to bind or disarm enemies. The diagrams demonstrated how these tendrils could ensnare multiple targets simultaneously, rendering them helpless.
Phantom Whispers: A psychological tactic that generates illusory sounds to distract or disorient an enemy. The accompanying notes suggested its effectiveness in breaking focus during battle or instilling fear.
Each technique was meticulously detailed with step-by-step instructions and visual aids. The practical applications of these skills were clear, even to someone without Qi like myself. I began to analyze their merits, considering which would be most advantageous to learn first once I reached the Qi Condensation stage.
Of the seven, Shadow Slip and Shimmerstep seemed immediately useful, emphasizing movement and evasion. Dark Veil could provide much-needed defense in a world where one attack could end my life.
Of course, offensive moves like Gloomfang Edge and Silent Fang are also important, as with them, I wouldn't need to resort to tactics like I did with Fang's uncle.
And then there are also two other techniques that also need to be carefully be considered. For now, though, I could only commit the techniques to memory and prepare for the day when I could finally cultivate Qi and execute them. The knowledge itself was a powerful weapon, and understanding the principles behind each move would give me an edge when the time came.
As I closed the bamboo slip, I set it aside and picked up the second one, The Veil of Eternal Night, which appeared to be the cultivation manual. Reading its contents would shed more light on the path I was to tread and prepare me for the challenges ahead.
Unrolling the bamboo slip, the first lines captured my attention immediately:
"Qi Condensation consists of eight stages. This is the foundational stage of cultivation, where mortals awaken their potential and begin their journey toward immortality. During this realm, cultivators refine the ambient Qi of the heavens and earth, storing it within their dantian and integrating it with their body and soul. Each stage represents a deeper mastery of Qi, with cultivators gaining enhanced physical abilities, longer lifespans, and greater spiritual perception."
All eight stages were explained in further detail.
Stage 1 Initial Awakening: Cultivation begins with sensing Qi for the first time. It requires unwavering focus and determination, as the body and meridians are still fragile at this stage. Successful mastery would gain basic control over Qi, enhanced physical strength, and a heightened awareness of one's surroundings.
Stage 2 Qi Circulation: In this stage, Qi begins to flow through the meridians, strengthening them and harmonizing with the body. Improved stamina and physical endurance, as well as the capability to release small bursts of Qi for defense or attacks.
Stage 3 Meridian Opening: This opens the meridians further, allowing Qi to flow freely throughout the body. The cultivator begins to purify the Qi they absorb, removing impurities. Improved control over Qi allows for basic techniques.
Stage 4 Qi Purification: Refines the Qi within the body, purging impurities to create a more stable and potent energy source. Improves various abilities.
Stage 5 Spiritual Sensitivity: Expending spiritual awareness enables perception of Qi flows in the environment and manipulation with greater precision. The ability to control Qi increases drastically, allowing for advanced techniques.
Stage 6 Internal Stabilization: The cultivator consolidates their Qi reserves, stabilizing the flow within their body. Reduces the risk of Qi Deviation and allows sustained use of techniques.
Stage 7 Elemental Affinity: At this level, the cultivator begins aligning with one or more elements, shaping their future path. Control over elemental Qi and resistance to related attacks becomes possible, opening the door to manipulating forces like shadows or darkness.
Stage 8 Qi Condensation Perfection: The culmination of the realm transforms Qi into a liquid-like state, drastically enhancing its potency. Combat capabilities soar, with the ability to form Qi shields or weapons and extend one's lifespan by decades.
I absorbed the details, my mind carefully analyzing the implications of each stage. Starting at Stage 3, I could perform basic techniques. By Stage 5, advanced techniques like those from the Whisper of Shadows would become accessible. And at Stage 7, I could begin manipulating the shadows and darkness, taking my first true steps into the Dao of Shadows and Darkness.
With the introductory guide to Qi Condensation finished, I turned my attention to the section on cultivation itself. The instructions were detailed yet concise, laying out the core concepts necessary to advance. The process began with harnessing ambient shadow energy from the surrounding environment and channeling it into my body, more specifically to my dantian—the region just below my navel, where Qi is stored and cultivated. Successfully completing this process would mark the achievement of Stage 1.
The scroll emphasized that Stage 1 was foundational. Once I reached it, I could progress to higher stages, refining my control and increasing the quantity of Qi I absorbed. Each subsequent stage represented a deeper integration of Qi into my body, strengthening me both physically and spiritually.
The manual also mentioned a technique called Umbral Absorption, a method designed to enhance Qi absorption rates significantly. However, it came with a warning—attempting it too early, before achieving Stage 3, carried immense risks. A lack of control over the larger influx of Qi could result in Qi Deviation, a disastrous condition where the cultivator loses control of their energy. The consequences ranged from severe internal injuries to death, often in the form of a catastrophic physical explosion. The warning was enough to cement my resolve to approach this method with caution.
Beyond reaching the initial stages, the manual outlined two essential goals: developing a Shadow Veil to obscure one's presence and dampen sound, and learning to control and manipulate one's shadow as an extension of oneself. Mastering these would lay the groundwork for future techniques and enhance my stealth and survivability.
As I absorbed the information, it became clear why joining the Nightshade Monastery was such a critical opportunity. A sect as powerful as this possessed resources and knowledge that far surpassed anything the Shadowthorn Covenant Sect could likely provide. The Veil of Eternal Night cultivation manual alone demonstrated this—its layered insights and techniques were not something a lesser sect could hope to match.
The manual also introduced two techniques available from Stage 3 onwards: Wisping Step, a movement technique designed for agility and evasion, and Shadow Infusion, an offensive skill to channel shadow Qi into attacks.
Having mastered those techniques would make learning the techniques in the Whisper of Shadows manual much easier.
Another key resource the manual discussed was Spirit Stones, crystalline objects brimming with concentrated Qi. As an outer disciple, I would receive 50 low-grade spirit stones monthly, a substantial resource to aid my cultivation. These stones could be used for various purposes within the sect—renting specialized training facilities, purchasing additional manuals or materials, or even absorbing the energy within them to bolster my cultivation. While their effectiveness diminished at higher cultivation stages, they were invaluable for someone just starting out, like me. Absorbing Qi directly from the environment was far less efficient, particularly in the beginning.
The manual explained that more Spirit Stones could be acquired by completing sect missions, selling crafted items or harvested resources, or even participating in wagers and competitions. The structure encouraged growth through contribution and effort, rewarding those who advanced the sect's interests or proved their capability.
I set the scroll down and leaned back slightly, processing the wealth of information. It was a lot to take in, but each detail was crucial, and reading it once sufficed for me to memorize its content. The path ahead was clear, though it wouldn't be easy.
I settled onto the floor, positioning myself as visualized in the manual. My breathing followed the precise pattern described—slow, deliberate, and rhythmic. 
Calm your heart, silence your mind, and feel the energy around you.
The words echoed in my mind, a mantra that guided my focus. At first, the Qi in the air was elusive, like smoke slipping through my grasp. Slowly, as my concentration deepened, I felt it—a faint but unmistakable thread of energy. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but it was there.
I focused on that thread, gently guiding it toward my dantian. The process was slow, requiring unwavering precision and patience. My body, unaccustomed to the rhythm, resisted slightly, as though adjusting to a new tempo. Beads of sweat formed on my forehead, the strain building as I persevered. Gradually, the Qi began to collect within me, each wave like a drop filling an empty vessel.
Finally, I exhaled deeply and opened my eyes. The room seemed sharper somehow, the shadows deeper and more distinct. A faint sensation lingered in my core—a small but tangible sign of progress. The first step toward cultivating Qi had been taken.
Satisfied with the initial results, I reached into my pouch and retrieved a Spirit Stone. Holding it up to the faint light, I examined its translucent surface, which shimmered with a soft, rhythmic glow. The energy within the stone was much more concentrated than the ambient Qi in the air.
Following the method outlined in the manual, I concentrated on the energy within the stone. It was easier to locate, a steady pulse that resonated with my growing awareness. Carefully, I guided its energy toward my dantian, feeling the Qi flow smoothly into me. As the energy depleted, the stone's glow dimmed until it finally crumbled to dust in my hand, its essence entirely consumed.
Spirit Stones were indeed far more efficient than ambient Qi, just as the manual had indicated. The concentrated energy allowed for faster absorption, and with each stone, my connection to the process grew stronger and more refined.
I continued.
One Spirit Stone.
Two Spirit Stones.
Three Spirit Stones.
...
Eight Spirit Stones.
The process became smoother, and my control improved with each attempt. My initial awkwardness gave way to a steady rhythm, the Qi flowing into my dantian like water into a reservoir.
By the time I reached the tenth Spirit Stone, I paused, setting aside the remaining stones. I had consumed one-fifth of my monthly allowance, and while the temptation to continue was strong, I knew it would be unwise. Cultivation was as much about restraint and discipline as it was about progress.
I think I understand it now. With each Spirit Stone extracted, I have found ways to increase my absorption rate. In the beginning, it would take me 30 minutes to extract one single Spirit Stone, whereas now I only need 3 minutes.
Though I hadn't yet reached the First Stage, I could feel the threshold approaching rapidly. At this rate, a few more days of consistent cultivation would likely suffice. 
Outside, the sun was beginning to set, its orange glow casting long shadows across the room. Time had flown by.
I sat in silence for a moment, considering my next step. My control over Qi had grown significantly, and my sensitivity to the surrounding energy had heightened. Perhaps it was time to attempt something more advanced. The Umbral Absorption technique, while risky, suddenly felt within reach.
The manual had warned against using it prematurely, but I felt confident. The refinement I had gained today, coupled with my innate ability to analyze and adapt, made me certain I could manage it without suffering Qi Deviation.
There is a reason new disciples like us were given access to the Umbral Absorption technique right from the beginning. Most would shy away from using it, fearing the inherent risks—Qi Deviation, internal damage, or worse. Yet the Monastery didn't forbid its usage, nor did they delay its distribution until disciples reached the Third Stage, as the manual recommended. This subtle decision spoke volumes.
If the technique were truly unusable before the third stage, it wouldn't have been handed out. That implied a hidden layer to its design, a method or nuance that allowed it to be used safely even at the foundational level. Perhaps this was yet another test—a deliberate challenge to see who among the disciples had the insight, courage, and adaptability to uncover the truth.
This realization bolstered my confidence. There is a way. I simply needed to approach it with the precision and control I had already developed.
Steeling myself, I closed my eyes once more, centering my focus. The room around me seemed to fade as I prepared to channel not just Qi, but the deeper, more volatile currents of shadow energy. If successful, this step would accelerate my progress exponentially.
The manual emphasized becoming attuned to the unseen currents of darkness, drawing them inward without disrupting their natural flow. It was like reaching into a raging river and guiding a single thread of water without disturbing the torrent.
I began with the breathing technique I had already mastered, allowing my mind to quiet and my awareness to expand. The room faded from focus, replaced by the intricate web of energy around me. The shadows seemed to shift subtly, as though responding to my intent.
Steady. Controlled. Precise.
I initiated the first step of Umbral Absorption, extending my awareness outward toward the ambient shadow energy. It was denser than the Qi I had previously drawn, heavier, and more volatile. Unlike the ethereal quality of Qi, this energy felt alive, as though it had a will of its own. It swirled around me, brushing against my senses like a living entity testing my resolve.
Instead of pulling it directly into my dantian, I guided the shadow energy through my meridians in a slow, deliberate flow. The technique's danger lay in its unpredictability; a single misstep could send the energy spiraling out of control. But I had anticipated this, and my earlier cultivation had honed my control to a razor's edge.
The energy was cold and oppressive, pressing against the inner walls of my meridians like an unrelenting tide. My body tensed instinctively, but I willed it to relax, allowing the energy to flow freely. Gradually, the oppressive weight lessened, replaced by a sense of integration, as though the shadows themselves were becoming an extension of my being.
As the energy reached my dantian, I carefully began to condense it, weaving it into the faint Qi I had already gathered. The process was delicate, requiring constant adjustments to maintain balance. Yet, with each passing moment, the flow grew steadier and more harmonious.
Minutes blurred into hours as I sat, fully immersed in the cultivation process. With each breath, I felt the Qi within my body settle, condensing into a steady, tangible form. The faint vessel that had once been my dantian now brimming with energy, a reservoir of potential awaiting my command.
When I opened my eyes, the air around me seemed sharper, more alive. Shadows danced with an unfamiliar rhythm, as though acknowledging my newfound state. A subtle shift had occurred—I had reached the First Stage of Qi Condensation.
The realization was both exhilarating and sobering. I had taken my first true step on the path of cultivation, a road that promised immense power but demanded unyielding discipline. Flexing my fingers, I allowed the Qi within me to flow through my meridians. The sensation was invigorating, like a hidden current of strength surging beneath my skin.
I clenched my fist experimentally, channeling the Qi into my muscles. My physical strength had undoubtedly increased; every motion felt more precise, more deliberate. Even my awareness had expanded. The world around me seemed richer, layered with details I had never noticed before. The faint hum of energy in the air, the subtle movements of shadows—they were no longer distant phenomena but tangible realities I could interact with.
More importantly, I no longer needed to concentrate intensely to sense the Qi in my surroundings. It was as if my body had attuned itself, allowing me to perceive the ambient energy effortlessly.
Though I couldn't yet project Qi outward, I could feel its potential to enhance my strikes and defenses. Testing this, I performed a basic punching motion, guiding the Qi into my arm. The resulting movement was faster and stronger—a hint of the power I could wield as I continued to progress.
Setting aside my thoughts, I reflected on the cultivation manual's guidance. The next stages would demand not only dedication but also a deeper understanding of my attributes—shadows and darkness. These elements, the foundation of the Nightshade Monastery's teachings, would soon become integral to my growth.
Satisfied with my progress, I returned to the desk and placed the manuals neatly in their designated spot. Tomorrow, I will continue refining my technique and perhaps explore another one from the manual. For now, I needed rest.
Looking out of the window, I noticed the sun had fully set, plunging the world into darkness. Yet, to me, the night no longer felt foreboding. It was a realm of potential, a canvas upon which I could paint my growth.
As I lay down to sleep, one thought lingered in my mind: I am hungry.
***
A/N: I apologize for the massive info drop in this chapter, but this was necessary for the foundation of cultivation, making future explanations much easier. With the release of this chapter, I have created a wiki chapter, which will get continuously updated listing information about characters, the world, the cultivation system, and much more.
The next chapter, Chapter 7: Alchemy Department, will be released on the 13th of January.
Until then!