Chapter 99: Patience and Desire
"Is this effective?"
"I'm not sure."
"Could it be...?"
The three of them debated as they observed Sonya, hoping to glean some useful information from her.
However, Sonya remained impassive, her smile unwavering, providing no helpful clues.
So the trio turned their focus back to the inscriptions and teachings on the stone monument, trying to figure things out on their own.
Hours passed without them making any progress.
Sonya received word that the chefs had arrived on the island.
"I have other matters to attend to. If you choose to believe, you may stay. If not, you are free to leave," Sonya announced before turning and leaving.
Lacey watched as Sonya effortlessly leaped from the temple and landed gracefully on a tree below, then swiftly disappeared. Lacey's resolve only hardened.
The other three saw Sonya's actions. Despite her display of skill, they did not underestimate her, given that she was associated with Kassadin, the Void God.
"What do we do now?"
"It's been hours, and we still haven't come up with a good strategy," Kael said, looking frustrated.
"We can't figure out what actions would show our devotion."
"If we delay any further, we might miss the chance to be among the first to join," Reno said, growing anxious.
"Don't rush. It's not necessarily a bad thing if others arrive," the Seer said calmly. "Tests often measure one's character. Let's stay a day or two and be patient."
The two men exchanged glances and nodded in agreement.
Lacey, unsure of what to do, continued her fervent prayers for the blessings of the Void.
Sonya first visited the port to check in with the chefs and inform them of Kassadin's five mealtimes. She then returned to the villa.
"Kassadin, the chefs have arrived. You'll be able to dine in an hour," Sonya said, approaching Kassadin, who was gazing out from the balcony, a few meters away.
"Mm, you've done well," Kassadin responded with a nod.
"Thank you for the praise, but what should we do about the others?" Sonya asked, her concern evident. "Should we just leave them as they are?"
"Treat any future arrivals as you have these. I will know their level of devotion myself," Kassadin said.
His judgment was based on whether the system provided any alerts.
From experience, passing the system's assessment required genuine curiosity about the Void, heartfelt respect, and a longing for the Void.
Lacey had already passed the system's assessment over an hour ago and was now merely waiting for his approval.
The three superpowered individuals were also awaiting his decision.
Kassadin had not approved them immediately as he was observing their dispositions. Unlike Lacey, who was weak and desired power to change her situation, these superpowered individuals already had substantial strength.
If they gained Void power, their abilities would increase further. However, if they had a combative or destructive nature, it could cause trouble.
Kassadin preferred not to clean up after potential problems, so he required a test of their patience. Impulsive individuals could easily cause significant issues.
"Very well, let me know if there's anything you need," Sonya said, seeing Kassadin had a plan and not pursuing the matter further before heading to the kitchen.
The evening arrived, and the group was now hungry and thirsty after spending the entire day there.
"It's been half a day. We're thirsty and hungry. Let's find something to eat," Reno suggested.
"I'd like to find something to eat too, but can we hunt here?" Kael asked, unsure, as they were in Kassadin's domain.
"We can't hunt, but we can try fishing," Reno replied, noticing Kael's reluctance and suggesting another option.
"Yes, Lacey, would you like us to bring you something to eat?" Kael asked, noticing Lacey on her knees, her lips cracked from thirst, but still fervently praying.
"Yes, please. Here's a thousand dollars as a thank you," Lacey said, opening her eyes and offering a thousand dollars from her pocket.
The amount was more than enough for them to get food for her.
Kael was about to refuse the money, but he noticed the Seer shaking his head.
"Wait here. We'll be back soon," Kael said, understanding the Seer's point and taking the money.
In the past, Kael would have taken advantage without hesitation, but this time, he felt it wasn't right to take the money.
The three of them left the temple to find food, leaving Lacey behind.
"Seer, we've known Lacey for years. Isn't it odd to take her money?" Kael asked as they made their way to the port.
"We came here to ally with Kassadin and join the Void Cult," the Seer said. "Lacey, on the other hand, came seeking power."
"What's the difference?" Kael asked, puzzled.
"Fool, the difference is if we don't cut, we can always return home. We're superpowered individuals, after all," the Seer explained.
"Lacey came seeking power. If she doesn't receive it, she might not want to leave," Reno added, clarifying the Seer's point.
"Ah, I see now," Kael said, understanding the reasoning.
As they discussed, they arrived at the port and saw four people disembarking from a boat.
"This is Lord Kassadin's island. It's huge!"
"Stop talking and head to the temple. Maybe we can meet Lord Kassadin."
"Let's go, let's go."
As the newcomers ran towards the temple, Reno stepped in front of them.
"Hold on," Reno said, noting their reverent attitude toward Kassadin.