Chapter 16: The Sect’s Structure

The conversation between Adrian and Cosmo had come to an end. Three hours had passed, and the time had come for the elder's summons.

Adrian left his quarters and made his way to the grand hall, where the elder had gathered all the newly recruited disciples. The hall was vast, its high ceilings supported by intricately carved pillars bearing the insignia of the Evernight Sect. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension as the disciples whispered among themselves, eager to learn about the place that would shape their future.

At the front of the hall stood a dignified elder, his gaze firm as it swept over the assembly. After a brief pause, he began in a measured voice:

"Our sect is one of many that exist within this vast world, but do not mistake our presence as insignificant. We are located in the Northern Region, a land so expansive that even a lifetime of travel would not reveal all its secrets. This region is divided into multiple territories, each governed by its own sects, clans, and powers. As you progress in your cultivation, you will naturally gain access to more knowledge about this world's divisions. Remember, knowledge is as valuable as strength on the path of cultivation."

He paused once more, then continued with a note of pride:

"Our Evernight Sect is rapidly growing, and we are on the cusp of ascending from a mid-level sect to one that rivals the highest of cultivators. However, our progress depends on strict discipline and adherence to a code of conduct. There are three fundamental rules every disciple must follow:

No Killing Within the Sect: Under no circumstances shall a disciple take the life of another while within our sanctuary. Should you encounter a fellow disciple outside our walls, you are expected to aid and protect them. Loyalty and Unity: Every member must uphold unwavering loyalty to our community. Any act of betrayal or selfish ambition that disrupts our harmony will be met with severe consequences. Diligence in Training: You must commit wholeheartedly to your cultivation. Laziness or deviation from our prescribed path will not be tolerated, as our collective strength depends on the disciplined efforts of every member.

These rules, though strict, are designed to forge you into the strongest version of yourselves."

The elder's tone then shifted as he introduced a final, crucial figure: "I now introduce you to our Sect Master, Feng Yu Han, whose wisdom and strength guide the Evernight Sect. It is under his leadership that our main branch thrives."

He went on to explain the structure of the main branch:

"Our sect is divided into three primary disciple rankings. First, there are the Outer Disciples—those who have just joined and are still laying the foundation of their cultivation. They reside in the outer section of the sect and undertake minor tasks while they train. Next are the Inner Disciples, who have proven their worth and earned their place in the deeper halls of the sect, gaining access to better resources and teachings. Finally, the Core Disciples represent the elite; these individuals have not only shown exceptional talent but have also been personally recognized by our highest elders. Core Disciples receive the best resources, guidance from top elders, and the highest privileges within our community."

He concluded, "The structure of our elders mirrors this division. We have Outer Court Elders to manage the daily affairs and support the outer disciples, Inner Court Elders to oversee and nurture the inner disciples, and Core Elders, who serve directly under Sect Master Feng Yu Han and have the authority to take on Core Disciples as personal students."

After explaining the main branch, the elder's gaze shifted toward a portion of the disciples who would be joining an affiliated branch.

"As for those who will enter an affiliated branch," the elder began, "your path will be different but still valuable. These branches are extensions of the Evernight Sect, spread throughout the Northern Region. They may not have all the resources or advanced techniques of the main branch, but they provide a strong foundation for your cultivation."

He continued, "The structure of the affiliated branches is similar to that of the main branch. You will also be classified as Outer, Inner, or Core Disciples. The standards for advancement are a bit different, and the elders in these branches manage their own groups. However, if you prove yourself, you may have the chance to transfer to the main branch later."

A soft murmur of excitement spread among the disciples. Some exchanged hopeful glances at the possibility of one day moving up to the main branch.

The elder then spoke in a clear, steady voice: "Remember, whether you join the main branch or an affiliated branch, our sect values strength and potential. Work hard, follow the rules, and you will have the opportunity to grow."

After a few more instructions about training and daily discipline, the elder concluded, "That is all for now. Return to your rooms and rest. You will be informed when the next phase of your journey begins."

With that, the disciples slowly left the hall, each making their way back to their quarters, ready to continue their cultivation journey with a clear understanding of the sect's structure.

As the elder's words filled the hall, Adrian listened intently, absorbing every detail. Amid the grandeur and discipline of the Evernight Sect, he felt both a profound sense of responsibility and an eagerness to begin his own journey.

After the elder finished his instructions, the disciples slowly began to disperse and return to their rooms. Even as most of them obeyed the call, a few wandered the corridors, quietly exploring the vast interior of the Spirit Vessel. The elder glanced around but made no move to stop them, knowing that as long as they did not stray into forbidden areas, a little roaming was acceptable.

Adrian, curious and thoughtful, decided to take a short walk before heading back to his room. He moved quietly through the winding corridors, noticing how the soft glow of lanterns lit the spacious halls. As he walked, he observed that the outside of the Spirit Vessel appeared modest—a small, unassuming craft—yet inside, the space was almost endless. Shadows and light played on smooth stone walls, and the corridors stretched on, far beyond what he had expected.

Intrigued, Adrian paused near a large window overlooking the exterior. The view was blurry, with passing clouds and distant stars, but it reinforced the contrast: the vessel's exterior seemed limited, while its interior defied expectation.

Unable to contain his curiosity, Adrian reached out with his thoughts to Cosmo.

Adrian: "Cosmo, why does the Spirit Vessel seem so small from the outside but so vast inside?"

There was a moment of quiet before Cosmo responded.

Cosmo: "The secret lies in our use of a space stone. This stone is a rare artifact that allows us to expand the interior space beyond what the exterior suggests. It is used to create items—like space rings and space bracelets—that can enlarge a given area. In fact, many dojos and halls are refined with its power to provide extra room for training and comfort. Essentially, the space stone expands the inner dimension of the vessel, making it far more spacious than it appears from the outside."

Adrian nodded slowly, absorbing the explanation. "So, even though the vessel looks small to an outsider, its interior is designed to be limitless thanks to the space stone?"

"Exactly," Cosmo replied. "It is a clever application of ancient techniques, ensuring that every part of our journey is both efficient and comfortable. This is just one example of how advanced cultivation and knowledge can transform even the simplest objects."

As the gentle hum of the Spirit Vessel continued and the quiet corridors beckoned, Adrian felt a mix of wonder and resolve. He knew that he must trust in his own strength and the guidance he received from Cosmo. With that thought, he turned and made his way back to his room, ready to rest until the elders called him again for the next phase of his journey.

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