"Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule," Vivi Lynch continued, her voice taking on a more serious, conspiratorial tone. "Some Martial Cultivator sects, in order to secure resources and funding, will cultivate their own proxies in the secular world. For example, behind some of the massive conglomerates and multinational corporations, you can often find the looming shadow of a cultivation sect."
She paused, letting that sink in before continuing. "Then there are the rogue cultivators—those without a sect or faction. Some of them are seduced by the neon lights and the high life of the city. They end up working as high-priced bodyguards for billionaires. Others... well, others cooperate with special government departments. They become the elite among the elite, the tip of the spe
