Ryual smiled and nodded. "That is a good assessment if a little surface level. At the same time, it is true that strength rules in the Sacred Flame Sect; we are not barbarians. We only subject those who choose the path of power to the rule of power. Our clan possesses many innocent civilians who are carefully protected and valued. We also are accepting of outsiders. Anyone who wishes to seek strength is welcome to join our fold. Do you understand better why we have treated you so well?"
Hector nodded. "You see me as an outsider. As I am not a Sect Member, you treat me like you would a civilian protecting me from your power thanks to your code."
"Correct. You are quite quick on the uptake, Hector. However, I will not lie. That is not the only reason."
"Then what is the other?" Hector asked, pushing further.
"Well, that is simple. Transmigrators go through a process before being reborn, which reshapes their body. While we do not know why or how it happens, we do know that this process results in a body extremely ideal for cultivation."
Finally, it dawned on Hector. 'So that is why!'
Everything clicked into place. They were so accommodating, not just because they understood or because of a set of codes. It was because a wonderful prospect had fallen into their laps, and they didn't want to antagonize a possible newcomer.
"You want to recruit me then?"
"Well, yes. Not only do you present an excellent research project for me, but you would also be a good addition to our sect. With an adapted body and a high blood affinity, you could become a valued asset in the future, " Ryual said.
"And if I don't want to join the Sect?"
Well, then you will be put to work. After all, you did consume one of the Heavenly Demon's Blood Blossoms. Until you pay off the debt, we will provide you with employment. Then, when you pay off the astronomical sum that a Blood Blossom costs, you will be free to go."
Hector paused, staring at the older man in front of him. He considered the man's words. Everything had been so sudden. Now, he had to choose between joining a martial sect, which he barely understood, and working menial tasks until his debt was paid off.
As he sat in silence, Soro spoke for the first time. "May I share a piece of advice, Hector?"
He nodded.
"There are two types of people in this world. The first is the people who get swept up in the currents of life. Desperately trying to gain some semblance of control over their shitty life. The second type of people are those who build themselves up using the opportunities offered to them. They resist the tides and push through with sheer force of will. Tell me, Hector, which do you wish to be?" Soro said.
Hector took in the man's words, carefully considering his decision. "In my past life, I was controlled and reigned in by my father. My future was not mine to command, and I never was able to experience what life is truly about. My friend often told me about what I was missing out on and convinced me to betray my father. The moment I finally had my freedom, I died, killed by the same people who I sold my father out to."
"Do you regret it, Hector?" Soro asked softly.
Hector's face hardened, his eyes sharpening and his will burning bright, "The only thing I regret was not having the strength to protect my freedom."
"Then you will join us? Within our sect, the one thing we can promise is the chance to obtain strength." Ryual said with an expectant excitement.
"Tell me, will I be free if I join your sect? Where I come from, organizations like yours are incredibly restrictive, often taking away many of their members' freedoms," Hector inquired.
"If you join our sect, you will first be subjected to a harsh training environment. While you are welcome to leave at any time, whilst there, you will be subject to the authority of our instructors. However, if you graduate from the training and truly become a member of the Divine Flame Sect, then you will only be subject to the authority of Heavenly Demon. As long as you do not betray us, then you will have your freedom." Ryual said.
Hector mulled over the man's words. Logically speaking, it was unwise for him to join the Divine Flame Sect. Not only was it the only faction he had met, but the rest of the world also demonized it. Joining them would result in gaining the ire of most factions in this new world called Murim.
However, was there a guarantee that he would gain this same opportunity if he declined them now? He found it hard to imagine that the orthodox factions would tolerate his hunger for human blood.
From what knowledge he had obtained, the orthodox sects sounded eerily similar to the churches in his own world, which unnerved him.
"Hector, You can have three days to decide if you like. While I cannot permit you to leave and discover this for yourself, the three Orthodox factions will not accept you. Your unique need for blood will result in their attempts to condemn and purge you if it is discovered." Soro whispered, doing his best to convince the young man.
Hector nodded his head slowly, "I believe you. If there is one thing I know, it is that if people believe you to be a monster, they will ignore any arguments about your innocence. They will condemn and kill any who stand against them."
After a brief pause, Hector looked up from the stone ground and met Lord Cheonma's gaze, his red eyes firm with resolution.
"In my past life, I was hunted and killed by those who saw me as a monster. My father's sins were thrust onto me, and I allowed myself to be killed for their retribution. I was painted as a demon, and I even allowed myself to be convinced of that fact."
Hector paused briefly, taking in a deep breath as he let his mind accept his decision, the nerves in his stomach settling down. After a brief moment, he continued speaking.
"I was wrong to think that. I did nothing to deserve my own death. I allowed them to take away my freedom. I do not wish to make the same mistake in this life. Let them paint me as a demon. Thank you, Lord Cheonma. I accept your offer. I want to join the Sacred Flame Sect." Hector said, firm and determined. He stood up and clasped his hand to his open palm, bowing respectfully.
Ryual's smile crept onto his face, his sharp eyes glowing in excitement. "Excellent Hector. I believe you will flourish here if you genuinely possess the drive to become stronger. Remember, in the cult, strength rules. If you truly wish to remain free, become stronger."
Hector bowed his head again, maintaining his composure as he took in Ryual's words. Strength. He needed more strength.
"Thank you, Ryual, Soro. If your words are true and things are as you say, I will remember your kindness."