When they learned from Fels that the culprit behind the disappearance of their companions was the Ikelos Familia, the Xenos immediately resolved to retaliate.
Fueled by grief and righteous anger, they prepared to launch a counterattack—intent on hunting down the Ikelos Familia and even chasing them into the depths of the dungeon if necessary.
They even went as far as calling back the powerhouses among them to join the coming battle.
However, when they later heard from Fels that Leon himself intended to take down the Ikelos Familia and wanted to ask them to serve as bait, they reconsidered their approach and ultimately agreed to cooperate.
Fels had informed them long ago about his plan: to gradually bring the Xenos into the open, using Leon's reputation and influence to sway public sentiment. Since they were placing their hopes on Leon, they knew they had to take responsibility as well.
Leon's request wasn't unreasonably dangerous. And even if it was, the Xenos were prepared to take the risk. They refused to sit idly by, enjoying the benefits of someone else's work. If they were seeking Leon's help, then offering something in return was only right.
"Haha, I thought it would take a bit of negotiation, but I didn't expect you all to agree so easily." Leon said, mildly surprised by their unanimous response.
After his words, a few of the Xenos exchanged glances, looking a little sheepish.
"In truth, Leon-sama, we accepted your commission with another purpose in mind." Ray admitted, her cheeks slightly flushed with embarrassment. "We may need your help again in the future, and… we hoped to improve your impression of us as much as possible."
She spoke candidly, understanding that trying to scheme or manipulate a strong and perceptive man like Leon would only backfire. Honesty was the best strategy, and perhaps the easiest way to win favor.
Hearing her words, Leon blinked in surprise, then rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
After a short pause, he spoke with a calm yet firm tone. "I've already heard a bit about this from Fels."
"The prejudice adventurers have against monsters is deeply ingrained. Even if I told everyone on the surface that you Xenos bear no malice, most wouldn't believe me. If you want the adventurers to accept your existence, the most important thing is your own actions."
"You need to show enough goodwill to prove yourselves. Only then can I use my influence to help shift public perception."
Just like in the original timeline—when the Xenos intervened during the Gate of Heaven incident and helped adventurers, they earned the respect of a few and began to change perceptions.
That marked the start of the Xenos' relationship with the surface entering a new stage, though it was still far from true acceptance. The road ahead remained long and arduous. New ɴᴏᴠᴇʟ ᴄhapters are published on novel★fire.net
Leon had a vision. He intended to use the World Contract to plant the seed of acceptance among Orario's elite adventurers. If they could accept the Xenos, that acceptance might trickle down over time to the lower ranks.
But the Xenos would still need to act. Goodwill had to be demonstrated, not assumed.
And for what it was worth, Leon was more than willing to extend his hand. After all, Wiene was a Xenos too.
They had only been together for a single day, but Leon had already grown fond of her. He wanted to see her live openly and freely in Orario.
Sometimes, a single day spent with someone could outweigh years. This was one of those times.
"Thank you, Leon-sama. It is truly an honor to receive your help." Ray said, her tone filled with heartfelt gratitude. "Please let us know what you need us to do."
Other Xenos echoed her sentiments, nodding earnestly.
"Thank you, Leon." Fels added, his voice carrying quiet sincerity.
"We'll talk more later. For now, let's focus on luring the Ikelos Familia out." Leon said with a nod.
The group quickly got to work, discussing how to bait and trap the Ikelos Familia.
However, just as the conversation was getting technical, a soft voice broke through.
"Leon… hug me…" Wiene, still half-asleep, rubbed her eyes as she walked toward him with outstretched arms.
Leon was momentarily stunned. But then, smiling softly, he reached down and scooped her into his arms, gently patting her back as she nestled against his chest.
The Xenos all watched the scene silently. No one spoke, but their hearts were moved. This gentle side of Leon earned even more of their trust and admiration.
Wiene quickly fell back asleep in his arms.
Leon glanced down at her peaceful face, then spoke in a hushed tone, "Alright, let's continue."
"Yes, Leon-sama." The others replied in equally soft voices.
They resumed the meeting, now careful not to wake Wiene, lowering their voices as they discussed the strategy in detail.
The final plan was as follows: Lyd would serve as bait by appearing before adventurers and displaying distinctly human behavior, drawing attention to his unusual nature.
A magic device would be used to spread Lyd's story and build intrigue among the surface adventurers.
Meanwhile, Leon and a dozen second-class Xenos would remain hidden on the 18th floor, prepared to respond at a moment's notice. Fels had crafted specialized communication orbs that would be used to relay information the moment the Ikelos Familia was spotted.
Fels, being part of the Guild and Ouranos's personal mercenary, was responsible for gathering intel on the Ikelos Familia. His position made him uniquely capable of doing so.
As Leon and the Xenos finalized their plans to encircle and expose the Ikelos Familia, deep within the artificial maze, another presence stirred—
This time, the god no longer slouched in defeat. He stood tall, composed once more.
After his descent to the deep floors and the loss of Filvis, he had earned the qualifications to reconnect with Evilus that operated deep within the artificial maze.