It's important to understand that in this world, even the control of the Great Ming Empire is not sufficient to extend its reach to the lowest level.
Even with the local government offices' assistance, there are still many minor forces that mingle within them, serving as assistants and hirelings for the Great Ming imperial court to manage local affairs.
These smaller forces not only bow to the government offices, but also must listen to the commands of major forces that dominate certain areas.
Without a doubt, the Taihe Mountain True Martial Sect is one of these dominating forces. Whether they like it or not, once their power grew, they naturally became this way.
With the True Martial Sect's deterrence in the province they reside, no one would dare hinder their plans. They merely control things from behind the scenes, and are not attempting to incite a rebellion.