During the Yong'an era of the Da Qi dynasty, sinister incidents plague the old theater in Xichuan Town, while a single sheet of paper bearing an actor's name conceals a plot that threatens the realm. Wen Yanci, a cool and reserved coroner skilled at investigating uncanny cases and versed in occult arts, is caught in society's prejudice and gossip. Shen Yu of the Xuan Suppression Office lives in quiet isolation, carrying the burden of a wrongful accusation. In her darkest hour, he is her only salvation and support.
A ghost play at the theater reveals the scheme of the Mystic Venerable, who has spent years secretly refining puppets. The hypocritical county magistrate Gu Yanze uses his power to lay a deadly trap. The actor Su Lianyue wavers between righteousness and evil, consumed by obsession. Seeking to sacrifice the people's fortune and longevity, she hopes to awaken the ancient Puppet Master and remake the order of the world.
From spirits summoned at the theater, to paper figures that steal years from villagers, to shadow puppets in the old city that devour souls, sinister formations arise one after another. Countless innocent people lose years from their lives and watch their souls crumble. Wen Yanci and Shen Yu stand side by side to break the plots, dismantle the dark formations, discern people's hearts, and clear her name. Amid official schemes, petty intrigues, and the suspicion of the whole city, they defy the odds to uphold what is good.
The game grows more perilous with every move, while their bond deepens year after year. Good and evil clash, and sweetness mingles with heartache. Though the theater's final act has ended, dark currents still stir across the realm. In their mortal bodies, the two face a vast, sinister conspiracy, staying by each other's side in the darkness and protecting the peace of the human world with the small but steadfast goodness in their hearts.
Theme: Unravel the mystery by following the clues.
