Was a sense of freedom an illusion in any societal system?
The answer to that question depended on whether one looked at it through an optimistic or pessimistic lens.
Even though the sects placed restrictions on cultivators through various means, these restrictions were often accepted willingly by the cultivators in order to gain something in return.
In other words, it was a form of trade. There were two distinct sides, and one's loyalty acted as a wager.
It was no different from mortals working under an organization to earn a monthly income. Even though most organizations exploited their workers in one way or another, mortals could at least quit and choose a different place to work, willingly stepping into another sub-system that gave them a sense of freedom.
Although this freedom of choice was limited for most mortals, there were always exceptions and rule-breakers, and that was what made the idea of choice so tempting.
