The members of the Void God Sect had now become incredibly powerful.
Sara's arrival naturally drew their attention, and they listened closely to what she had to say. Hearing how Sonia viewed them filled their hearts with happiness. They respected Sonia and were willing to follow her guidance. They regarded her as someone of higher status, and the fact that she did not see them as mere subordinates was a comforting thought.
Indeed, aside from the reverence they held for Lord Kassadin, there was no strict hierarchy among the members of the island.
"Does Sonia have unfathomable power?" Sara asked, her curiosity piqued by Kyle's remark.
"Nobody on the island has witnessed Sonia's full strength firsthand," Kyle explained. "But many of the members who can fly learned from Sonia."
"Did Sonia not mention this to you?" he added, a hint of surprise in his voice.
"I thought Sonia was just an ordinary person like me..." Sara said, her worldview shaken by this revelation.
"Once, Sonia was indeed an ordinary person, but she gained Lord Kassadin's recognition and blessings," Reno interjected. "Since joining the Void God Sect, she is no longer ordinary."
He recalled how, two years ago, when he and Kyle had come to seek blessings from the Void God Sect, Sonia had seemed newly inducted, displaying only modest speed and strength.
However, having direct access to Lord Kassadin assured everyone that Sonia's power had significantly increased over the years. This understanding was common knowledge among the sect members.
"To think that recognition brings more than just a salary increase..." Sara murmured, contemplating Reno's words.
"It seems Sonia hasn't shared much about how to pass Lord Kassadin's trial," Kyle observed. "So don't expect others to reveal the details of the test to you."
"The rules of the island are strict: no one can disclose the specifics of the trial or the conditions for passing," he clarified. "However, since you're the first person Sonia has personally brought back and given a one-year position, take your time to understand the island. See if you can earn the recognition of the great God Kassadin."
Relying on the encouragement from Kyle, who sensed that Sonia hadn't shared much with Sara, Leicy chimed in, "The trials have become increasingly difficult. They've gone from a few days to several months."
For an ordinary person, staying on the island for months was possible, but remaining diligent and faithful for that long was no easy task.
Leicy felt fortunate that she had hurried over to the island when so many outside still debated the trustworthiness of the Void God Sect.
Sara remembered Sonia's advice that revealing too much could hinder her chances of passing the trial. Although Sonia had not explicitly shared the rules, she had mentioned that sincere work might increase her odds of recognition.
While the hint was vague and not a guaranteed path, it was the only guidance Sonia could provide. Any further insight might have breached the island's strict rules.
"Thank you for the advice, Leicy. I'll think it over carefully," Sara replied, expressing her gratitude.
"If you gain Lord Kassadin's recognition, you'll truly be integrated into the Void God Sect," Kyle noted. "If not, you may have to leave. But I hope you succeed because every new companion strengthens our bond."
Sara understood the significance of the opportunity Sonia had given her and how crucial it was to face this challenge. After all, Sonia had emphasized that no one could truly comprehend Lord Kassadin's intentions.
Tony listened quietly, munching on his meal as he absorbed their conversation. Most members of the Void God Sect didn't know much about Harvey, but Tony did.
Though the trials were known to be challenging, if Harvey took notice of Sara, she could gain entry to the sect in mere minutes instead of enduring months of testing.
Be it himself, Pepper, Steve, or Bucky, their paths to the Void God Sect had been remarkably smooth without excessive trials.
Harvey wouldn't have brought an outsider like Sara on board unless he had a reason, especially one recommended by Sonia.
As long as Sara behaved and didn't cause trouble, it was only a matter of time before she earned her place in the Void God Sect.
The banquet continued until midnight, with everyone enjoying good food and thanking Tony Stark before departing, leaving behind a cheerful atmosphere.
Sara's positive impression of Sonia only grew stronger after hearing others discuss her, deepening their respect for her.
In the mountain-top villa, Sonia donned a lightweight nightgown and smiled as she saw the photo Sara had sent, showcasing her at the table with Reno, Kyle, and Tony.
Knowing that they were taking good care of Sara eased Sonia's worries, and a smile graced her beautiful face.
Note: If you are interested, read up to chapter 274 at patreon.com/MythicForge11