The arrival of Maria and the others, naturally, was at the behest of Duanmu Huai.
This is also why Duanmu Huai didn't care or investigate the Elders Council; using Subspace Demons to craft weapons was pure heresy. Even though the initial intention was to ensure human survival, using Subspace Demons for that purpose?
This is a matter of principle.
Duanmu Huai's forgiveness was already a significant leniency. A Pure Faction Judge would demand death for merely dabbling in Subspace. By only claiming the city as his own, he had shown considerable mercy.
