[AlexanderHowl]

One possibility is that the Path of Nonexistence has always worked, and that it was a massive working that restarted magic (by making the impossible possible again) in preparation for the coming of the Cold Ones (which need mana to function). As for recruitment, the Path of Nonexistence can change reality, so it can alter small things like ownership. A Transform Nonexistence could change the concept of 'Mr. X's fortune' to 'My fortune' pretty easily, which could be a potent bribe. It could also transform concepts such as 'She loves him' to 'She loves me', which could be an equally potent bribe.

Since the duration of these bribes are temporary though, the individual must remain in good standing with the cult to prevent reality from returning to normal. In the former case, duration ending could result in embezzlement charges. In the latter case, the duration ending could result in a divorce. In either case, the member needs to remain in good standing to avoid disaster.