The Rich Cultivator
Chapter 74. Crimson Blood Sect

Chapter 74: 74. Crimson Blood Sect

The Crimson Blood Sect is an unorthodox and enigmatic organisation that exerts its influence over the Crimson Blood Territory, a vast expanse of sea dotted with islands. At the heart of this territory is a magnificent floating island that hovers high in the sky, defying the laws of nature and serving as the sect’s headquarters. Surrounding this central floating island are 17 smaller, normal islands, each contributing to the sect’s extensive network of power and resources.

The floating island, often referred to as the Crimson Citadel, is a marvel of arcane engineering and mysticism. Its elevation allows the sect to maintain a strategic advantage, both defensively and symbolically, as it watches over the entire Crimson Blood Territory. The island is a fortress of formidable defences and hidden secrets, accessible only through hidden passages or by the sect’s own means of transportation, such as enchanted flying beasts and magical constructs.

The Crimson Blood Sect is known for its unorthodox practices and arcane knowledge. Unlike orthodox sects that follow conventional paths of cultivation and martial arts, arcane, the Crimson Blood Sect delves into forbidden arts and esoteric rituals, drawing power from blood magic and other obscure sources. This has earned them a reputation of both fear and awe among travellers and the common folk alike.

The 17 islands surrounding the Crimson Citadel each have their unique roles within the sect’s hierarchy. Some islands are dedicated to cultivating rare and potent herbs used in their blood rituals, while others serve as training grounds for the sect’s disciples. A few islands are shrouded in mystery, known only to the sect’s inner circle, and are believed to house ancient relics or dangerous experiments.

The Crimson Blood Territory, with its dark and mysterious allure, is both feared and respected by outsiders. Its strategic location and the unorthodox strength of the Crimson Blood Sect make it a force to be reckoned with in the world.

It’s been a day since Tyler arrived at the Crimson Blood Territory. He quickly learned the lay of the land and discovered that boarding the boat to the Crimson Citadel, the enigmatic Floating Island that serves as the sect’s headquarters, costs 1000 Lydia per person. Determined to reach the citadel, Tyler purchased two tickets from a dedicated counter, securing passage for himself and Silvia.

With tickets in hand, Tyler decided to explore the local islands. Silvia followed closely behind, both of them eager to experience the unique culture and specialties of the territory. They discovered that the local cuisine is predominantly seafood, a reflection of the islands’ rich maritime resources. Tyler and Silvia indulged in a variety of sea foods, noting the freshness and distinctive flavours that set them apart from the fare he was used to.

During their exploration, Tyler observed that meat and other land-based food items were considerably more expensive than seafood. This disparity highlighted the reliance of the islands’ inhabitants on the ocean for their sustenance and economy.

Tyler also gathered information about the process of joining the Crimson Blood Sect. Prospective members must undergo a rigorous interview, where only the most promising candidates are accepted as disciples. Those who are deemed the weakest are relegated to the role of servant disciples. These individuals must toil arduously within the sect, earning their way to the sect’s coveted practice methods through sheer effort and determination.

Tyler sighed. He is pretty sure he will only be able to become a servant disciple. He recalled how he didn’t join Soaring Cloud Sect because they only offered to be servant disciples.

It is the first time Silvia stepped into a bustling town. Everything was quite a novel for her.

Tyler also liked shopping. He never haggled after getting the copper pot. But now he is almost on the verge of being Lydialess (penniless) he likes to haggle.

"I really didn’t expect it to be this hard to find work," Tyler sighed, his frustration evident as Silvia gently patted his head. Despite his best efforts, most potential employers weren’t interested in hiring part-time help. They all demanded long-term contracts, binding him for at least a year.

"Our only choice is to join the sect," Tyler said with a sense of resignation.

Silvia nodded in agreement.

Four days passed quickly, and Tyler’s funds were nearly depleted. They found themselves waiting with a throng of other hopefuls at the designated waiting spot. Boats descended from the sky one by one, each landing with a soft thud as eager people rushed to secure a seat.

The scene grew chaotic as some individuals began to push and shove, desperate to board. However, the commotion was quickly quelled when a boat driver coughed, releasing a powerful aura that instantly made the crowd docile.

"The boat drivers are Novice Warriors," some people whispered in awe.

Tyler and Silvia managed to board a flying boat amidst the crowd. The vessel soon became packed with passengers. As they settled in, Tyler noticed other forms of sky transportation nearby—flying carriages, carts, and even some extravagant rides like giant birds. However, he couldn’t afford to indulge in these luxuries.

The boat lifted off smoothly, ascending towards the Crimson Citadel.

As the boat ascended through the clouds, the Crimson Citadel gradually revealed itself, a breathtaking and foreboding sight. The floating island, suspended high in the sky, was an impressive blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels, seemingly carved from the very clouds that supported it.

At the heart of the island, commanding attention, was a colossal skull-shaped rock formation. From the eye sockets and gaping mouth of the skull flowed a magnificent waterfall. The water, reflecting the sunlight off the giant red stones surrounding the skull, cascaded down in torrents that gleamed like flowing blood, giving the entire scene an eerie, almost otherworldly appearance.

The Crimson Citadel itself, a sprawling fortress, dominated the landscape. Constructed from dark, blood-red stone that glinted ominously in the sunlight, the citadel’s towers and spires reached skyward like the claws of a great beast. High, imposing walls surrounded the main structure, adorned with intricate carvings and runes that pulsated faintly with an eerie, crimson light.

The citadel’s grounds were meticulously maintained, with winding pathways leading through lush gardens filled with exotic flora. Rare, magical plants thrived here, their vibrant colours and unique shapes creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Small streams of crystal-clear water flowed through the gardens, their gentle babbling adding to the serene yet mysterious ambiance.

Scattered throughout the island were various buildings and training grounds, each serving a specific purpose within the sect. Training arenas and dojos were visible, where disciples practised their martial arts and honed their skills. There were also alchemical labs and libraries, housing the sect’s vast collection of forbidden knowledge and ancient texts.

Hovering above the island were smaller platforms and pagodas, accessible by narrow bridges or flying creatures. These structures served as meditation spots, private chambers for the sect’s higher-ranking members, and strategic lookout points.

As the boat approached the landing area, Tyler and Silvia could see other disciples and sect members moving about with purpose, their crimson robes flowing gracefully in the wind. The air was thick with the aura of power and secrecy, a constant reminder of the sect’s formidable presence.

The boat landed gently, and as the people disembarked, their eyes were drawn to the mesmerising skull waterfall at the island’s centre. The water, appearing as if it were flowing blood, set against the crimson stones and the citadel’s dark silhouette, filled them with a mixture of awe and apprehension.

"Those who want to join the Crimson Blood Sect... What am I even saying? The only way to permanently stay in this Citadel is to join the sect. Remember, if you are unable to join the sect, try to descend quickly or else..." The boat driver warned them tersely, leaving the rest unsaid. The crowd, apprehensive yet determined, moved toward the registration area.

For Tyler, the Crimson Blood Sect represented his only hope. With his funds nearly exhausted and no other options, he was resolved to give his all to join the sect.

"You guys are selected," announced a fat man nonchalantly, casually picking his nose as he addressed the crowd.

"Just like that? No interview? No selection process?" some people in the crowd questioned, their scepticism evident.

The fat man sighed, as if weary of repeating himself, "One month. Try to survive on this island for one month as servant disciples. After that, it’s your choice to remain here or get lost."

"We don’t need your names now. Those who wish to stay for a month, buy a badge for 10 Lydia and write your names on it. If you can’t survive the month, we will personally send you off the island," he added with a mysterious smile.

Everyone, including Tyler, paid 10 Lydia to buy a badge and wrote their names on it.

Tyler wrote White. He doesn’t want to write their real name or full name. So Tyler told her to write a different name.

Silvia thought for a second and took a peak at Tyler’s badge. Then she wrote ’Black’.