Writing Blog - The Xiao Sect’s Disciples

Some people have asked me about this, so I thought it might be nice to do a post on the Xiao Sect’s disciple tiers.

Outer Disciples

The lowest level of disciple. Every year, the Xiao Sect holds a test to determine who is worthy of joining. Those who pass usually join as Outer Disciples.

While the entrance exam varies a little each year, the most important factors are always age and cultivation level. Young people with relatively high cultivation levels are more likely to be accepted into the Sect. 

Outer Disciples are expected to help around with various menial chores. While they are instructed in the Xiao Sect’s fighting style, they are not taught any of the Sect’s signature techniques. 

It is not uncommon for those without talent to drop out. It is also not unusual for Outer Disciples to be transferred to other branches where their talents can be put to better use.

Under better circumstances, someone like On would have been transferred to a place that would better fit someone of his average talent.

Inner Disciples 

For an Outer Disciple to be considered for promotion to Inner Disciple, he must at least have reached the mid-stages of the Inner Realm while also being of suitable age relative to his cultivation level.

On, despite being in the mid-stages of the Inner Realm, was deemed too old for a promotion. Given enough time, an average man will reach the Nascent Realm, and the Xiao Sect has no need for those who are average. Age is carefully weighted against cultivation level when considering a promotion, and, as with all things, knowing the right people can help tip the scales in one’s favor.

Had Elder Hui been a kinder person, it is possible he could have promoted On to Inner Disciple. Though whether On could have flourished in that environment or not is anyone’s guess.

Inner Disciples receive greater instruction and resources than Outer Disciples. It is at this level where they start being taught some of the Xiao Sect’s secret techniques. They are also expected to start contributing to the Sect in different ways. 

Inner Disciples may be assigned jobs such as defeating bandits or hunting Spirit Beasts. 

Core Disciples

The highest level of disciple with access to many resources and secret techniques.

Core Disciples are entrusted with various secret tasks and are forces to be reckoned with. Unlike Inner and Outer Disciples, Core Disciples are not children. While it is normal for new Core Disciples to be in their late teens, most Core Disciples are already adults. 

Core Disciples are always in fierce competition with each other. The title of Elder is something they all wish to attain. However, that is not the only way they can achieve success. 

It is not uncommon for some Core Disciple to “retire” as Elders or even Sect Masters of the Xiao Sect’s many branches.