Chapter 211: Granting Titles
"I didn't tell you to announce it publicly," Harvey replied. "You can look for suitable candidates. After you find them, I will assess them. If they pass my scrutiny, they can join the Void and take on the role of managing information and reports."
Harvey understood that while Sonia was highly capable and reliable, the saying goes: don't put all your eggs in one basket. If Sonia were to leave and there was no one else to handle the island's affairs, it could lead to chaos.
"Am I to recommend someone?" Sonia asked incredulously, pointing to herself. "Isn't that a bit out of line?"
"If the other members of the Void Church find out, it could raise questions about our rules," she continued. "Once doubt creeps in, it could attract more people willing to break those rules."
Sonia knew her identity made her special in the eyes of the other members of the Void Church. She understood her responsibility to set an example and had never considered recruiting friends or acquaintances, keeping her interactions minimal to avoid gossip.
"I mean for you to find suitable candidates, not to tell them how to pass the trials—that wouldn't break the rules," Harvey clarified.
"Ah, I see now. I'll carefully evaluate the options," Sonia responded, understanding what he meant. If she recommended someone, it merely gave them a better chance to succeed, but it didn't guarantee they would receive the blessings of the Void Church, which didn't violate any rules.
"I want you to take a few days to rest and also screen potential candidates," Harvey added, pleased that Sonia grasped his intentions.
"Even if I want to rest, I still need to fulfill my responsibilities," she said with a smile. "I'll manage to take out two hours daily to walk around and ensure I get enough sleep."
Sonia explained that when Kassadin was away, she felt uneasy about the situation on Void Island, so she could only find small tasks to occupy her time. Now that he had returned, she felt she could take a breather and consider whether to extend her outings.
"Just handle it the way you see fit," Harvey said, understanding Sonia's nature.
"I'll head out and see if I can find suitable candidates," Sonia announced. "Mr. Kassadin, while you're away from Xandar, it's fine for you to operate as you like, but remember not to reveal your identity too freely on the island."
Sonia nodded in acknowledgment and prepared to leave. As she stepped outside, Harvey reminded her to be mindful of her conduct, and she simply nodded in response.
After changing into a flowing white dress and a sun hat, Sonia set off, looking pure and charming.
If she could find someone to assist her in her duties, she would be happy to have some help, though she knew not everyone could pass the trials of the Void Church.
Thus, she took on the bulk of the responsibility herself.
With Kassadin's encouragement to scout for candidates, Sonia felt upbeat as she piloted her spaceship toward a prominent hotel.
Knowing the area well, she was familiar with the personalities of various individuals, and had potential candidates in mind—she just needed to find a way to entice them to join Void Island.
Meanwhile, Harvey surveyed Void Island from above after Sonia left.
The island was bustling with numerous training facilities and had a range of entertainment options, almost like a thriving small city.
Thanks to the plentiful amenities, the atmosphere was relaxed, and every member of the Void Church wore cheerful expressions.
Seeing this eased the worries that had initially troubled Harvey regarding management.
Sonia likely found the cheerful atmosphere comforting, allowing her to handle her duties without stress or complaints.
As long as they received ample compensation and had well-defined responsibilities, these members would serve as the foundation for the Void Church's growth.
However, considering the system of assigning titles, Harvey contemplated.
Incentives and roles often motivate individuals more than mere tasks.
At this early stage of the Void Church, members served themselves and their comrades rather than other sentient beings.
This meant they wouldn't expect gratitude for performing their duties.
After pondering this, Harvey decided to make a trip back to Earth to acquire a collection of books related to mythology and legends, whether from Eastern or Western traditions.
He aimed to study them for insights on how to assign dignified titles and responsibilities to other members.
Just like Thor, the god of thunder from Asgard, who understood his responsibilities and took it upon himself to protect the realms, Harvey wanted to instill a similar sense of duty in his members.
While the Void Church hadn't grown to that level yet, the focus for now was on establishing a sustainable food cycle on the island.
Thus, Harvey prioritized roles related to agriculture and livestock management, aligning his research with tales of abundance.