As for the Xenos, Leon's plan was clear. He wanted them to help adventurers trapped in danger within the dungeon as much as possible. Of course, this didn't mean aiding those who were utterly malicious or beyond saving.
The more frequently the Xenos rescued adventurers, the more those adventurers would gradually change their views about the Xenos' existence.
However, such a strategy carried great risk. Human hearts were unpredictable. Those saved might very well betray their saviors the next moment.
To mitigate this risk, Leon sent June to assist the Xenos.
Like Ellie, June possessed the incredible ability to split into thousands of avatars.
Leon instructed June to scatter those avatars and accompany Ray and the others, protecting the Xenos whenever they went to aid adventurers. This way, they could avoid potential backstabs or betrayals.
"Yes, Leon-sama!!!" The Xenos responded in unison, their voices ringing with newfound confidence.
By now, the Xenos were genuinely convinced by Leon's sincerity.
They saw plainly that he truly wanted to help them.
After all, sending someone as powerful as June to watch over them was not a trivial gesture.
They simply couldn't imagine Leon harboring any ill intentions.
Moreover, the plan Leon gave them was the only course of action they could pursue.
To subtly influence the adventurers, planting the seed of acceptance toward the Xenos in their hearts—then allowing that seed to slowly germinate and grow.
Throughout this time, they would water and nurture these seeds, fostering gradual change.
It was a slow, painstaking plan that demanded patience and time.
Yet, they were willing to commit.
Because their ultimate goal was to emerge from the shadows of the dark underground city and live openly under the sun.
"Well then, I must return as well."
Leon nodded lightly. "I'll leave Wiene in your care."
"Don't worry, Leon-sama. We will take good care of her. But before you go, won't you come see Wiene one last time?" Ray asked solemnly, eyes filled with respect.
"No need." Leon smiled softly. "I'll come visit Wiene often in the future anyway."
"Besides, don't you have the communication orb Fels gave you?"
"When she misses me, just use the orb to contact me."
Ray nodded in understanding, not saying more.
"Fels, I'm heading back now. Would you like to come with me?" Leon turned to Fels, inviting him along.
"You go ahead. I'll handle the Ikelos familia bodies with Lyd and the others, then return." Fels declined with a shake of his head.
"Alright then, I'll head back first."
Without hesitation, Leon bid farewell and set off on his journey back. He had been in the dungeon for several days by now.
Hestia had already asked about him several times through Ellie. It took more than two hours for Leon to return to the surface.
Once above ground, he went straight to the library.
As expected, no one was there.
Had the renovation of the manor taken this long? Over a week already, and it still wasn't finished?
Leon was slightly puzzled but didn't dwell on it.
After a quick wash, he made his way to Daedalus Street.
Daedalus Street—the temporary residence of the Loki familia, and Finn's office.
Only Finn, Riveria, and Leon were present.
The others, according to Finn and Riveria, were occupied—Tione, Tiona, and Ais were sparring and Bete remained on duty.
Gareth, Anakitty, and Lefiya were guarding the sewers.
"Sure enough, once you act, the matter will be done properly."
"Is this the key to the artificial maze?"
"There are quite a few."
"Since we already have the keys, let's make a plan and prepare to explore the maze." Finn said, clearly impressed as he looked over the numerous spherical objects on the desk.
Leon shook his head decisively and said, "No. Don't act just yet."
"These keys alone won't be enough."
"I've asked Ouranos's private mercenaries to crack the key. They should have it ready in a few days. It's safer to produce more."
The artificial maze was labyrinthine, filled with mechanical doors that could open or close at will.
The control panel was currently held by Barca, the maze's pioneer.
However, possessing keys would nullify those doors, greatly reducing the danger and disadvantage for the team venturing inside.
Leon discussed the situation thoroughly with Finn and Riveria.
After listening, they both considered carefully and agreed.
"It's come this far. A few days more won't make much difference."
"Alright then, it's settled."
"We wait for Fels to finish cracking the keys and produce enough copies before making our move."
Seeing no objections, Leon finalized the decision.
After the discussion, Leon stood and said his goodbyes.
Riveria also left the office with him.
"What's going on, Riveria?" Leon asked curiously as they walked side by side.
"Something unusual seems to have happened with Ais and the others. Is it related to you?"
"Can you tell me what happened? I'm a bit worried." She asked seriously, turning to face him.
Leon was slightly taken aback.
"Your instincts are sharp, Riveria."
"Well, I don't mind telling you."
After all, he can sign a World Contract and there'll be no fear of secrets being exposed.