No one's POV

From HearthFire Mansion in the southwestern section of the city, Sora head to Daedalus Street, in the southeast. Everyone had already left after getting prepared. The instant he steps into the tangled streets of the Labyrinth District, the other adventurers all stare at him.

Adventurers: ...!

They've been peering around the streets suspiciously, and now they direct those suspicious glares directly at Sora.

Sora(mind): Its alright. We're going to save everyone.

Hestia: Sora...!

The Oculus orb in that was strapped in Sora's jacket started glowing and Hestia's voice could be heard.

Sora: Yes, Goddess?

Hestia: The resident in the area of Daedalus Street have been guided to the Guild. We've heard they've all been evacuated to the main street to the east. We'll proceed with the operation as you planned.

Sora: Good. What about everyone else?

Haruhime: Master Welf and Miss Mikoto haven't made to the Xenos yet. Lady Rin, and Lady Lili are all in position. Master Bell is still searching around in plain sight for the other Xenos that got separated.

Sora: Alright. Everything is according to plan. I know Asuna and Aiz will come for me, so please keep staying in touch so I could give the best personal route and choice, everyone.

Everyone: Right!

Sora wander aimlessly down the street, succeeding in his goal of attracting attention. All of Daedalus Street is on edge. Because, five days after the monsters appeared on the surface, adventurers are tired and irritated after their efforts have led to no noticeable progress.

Sora(mind): Now, what about Loki Familia...?

Taking care to not let the other adventurers distract him, Sora scanned his surroundings. He search along the grimy brick boulevard for the emblem of the Trickster...and there it is. Demi-human men and women stand against a wall whispering to one another, their armor bearing the crest. The members of Loki Familia glance at him, then scurry out of view.

Sora:...?

Sora didn't know what to make of them. They clearly recognized him before moving away, but he can neither talk to them nor follow them. Pretending to be searching for information, he gradually make his way toward the south side of the Labyrinth District.

Sora(mind): That's it, go tell Finn that I have made it to Daedalus Street.

A moment later, the answer to his instinct falls from above.

*Stomp! Stomp!*

The grating sound of boots landing on a hard surface draws Sora's gaze upward.

Sora: So you've come...

Sora looked above him. On the roof of a tall building on this street, beautiful blue and golden hair shimmers against the black night sky. Eyes to match the hair tossing in the wind gaze down directly towards him. Clad in silver and blue-green, the Sword Princess, and Berserk Healer the strongest in the city, has appeared above him.

Sora(mind): Asuna... Aiz...

(Elsewhere)

Aiz:...

Aiz had picked Sora out from the many adventurers coming and going on the street. She stared down at him as he looked up at her.

Aiz: Asuna, please let me join you in watching Sora.

Earlier, as the adventurers were preparing to take their positions after having rested, Aiz had offered her services to Finn and Asuna.

Asuna: Really?...Can you do it? Aiz, you've look up to Sora too much. Honestly speaking, I'm afraid you'd purposely lose sight of him.

Sora's surveillance was the one thing that Finn had not intended to hand over to Aiz nor to anyone. Asuna was the only candidate strong enough to watch over him.

Finn: I'll be frank with you, Aiz. Objectively speaking, Sora Yatagami is a destabilizing force in Orario right now. He's a risk factor, far stronger than any adventurer in Orario, including Ottar. Given that, we need to do two things. First, be vigilant, and second, if the need arises, stop him from acting.

Aiz:...

Finn: Can you really do those things?

Aiz had looked down for a moment from the eyes of her leader, which would tolerate no dishonesty. Then she nodded firmly.

Aiz: I won't let him go. If he tries anything...I will stop him with all my strength, even if its a losing battle. If someone has to stop Big Bro, I want it to be me.

Aiz had no hesitation on calling Sora Big Brother any longer like the previous days. She have no more doubt that Sora was indeed the long lost older brother she's been searching.

Finn and Asuna:...

Aiz: And if a monster shows up...I will take it down.

Aiz's words were an unadorned reflection of the mixture of duty and personal desire in her heart. Finn had peered into her unclouded eyes, then nodded.

Finn: All right. Then please support Asuna in stopping him.

Aiz: He doesn't trust me...

Aiz murmured, returning from her reverie and looking over her shoulder.

Asuna: At the current situation, I don't think I trust you either right now. Your heart is currently somewhere else.

Aiz: But there's nothing to do about it.

The truth was, Aiz couldn't help having a soft spot for Sora and Bell. Chasing away these idle thoughts, Aiz focused her attention on the cityscape beneath her.

Aiz: ...As Olba and the other low-level members of the familia told me, he's alone for now...

Sora was still looking up at both Aiz and Asuna. They had deliberately let him see them in order to keep him in check. And so their watch began. The Loki Familia let loose the strongest weapon in the faction on Sora, and they don't intend to let him do anything stupid. They plan to cut down their little tricks with one swing of their sword. Loki Familia has left Sora's surveillance entirely up to Aiz and Asuna. As he stand in the middle of the street, the other adventurers follow their gaze upward and notice the Sword Princess. Sora whisper into the oculus on the his jacket.

Sora: Both Asuna and Aiz are here...

Bell: Miss Aiz... Miss Asuna...

Hestia: Really?

Bell and Hestia's agitated voice comes back to him through the blue crystal, which is off so as to not show an image.

Sora: Yes. Everything is according to plan. Just stay focus.

Hestia: Well, in one sense, it means you'll be able to keep that Wallenwhatsit and Asuwhatsit glued to your side...But if you need to, do you think you'll be able to shake them?

Sora: I can... But it won't be easy. Asuna knows me too well after all...

Sora's role is to attract attention and, if the need arises, to find the Xenos who got separated from the group. It's a guerrilla position that capitalizes on his mobility. Sora was supposed to be a diversion, but the Loki Familia assigned only two person to watch him—Aiz and Asuna. And that means no matter how much he move around, Loki Familia's battle formation in Daedalus Street won't budge a celch. This must be Finn's work.

Sora(mind): Its alright... Just follow me if you can...

???: Hey!

Sora: Eeeek?!

Sora let out a startled cry as hands tap both his shoulders. His heart pounding, he jump into the air. The adventurers around him start in surprise. Flustered, Sora turn around.

Sora: Huh? Naza?

Her eyes drooping sleepily, dog ears hanging beside her face, and uneven sleeves hiding her airgetlám—her fake arm—the Miach Familia captain addresses him in her usual flat voice and raises both hands.

Naza: Hello...

Sora: What are you doing here?

Naza: Hmm... To help you and the others... I suppose.

Sora: Eh...?

Naza: You're in trouble, aren't you? You sure do hold back. It would have been fine for you to ask me a favor, considering our relationship...

Sora: No, but...Naza, don't you know...what I did?

Naza: I don't know the details...But you were probably chasing some girl's tail all over and got caught up in some trouble again, right?

Sora: No, that's not...! I'm not Bell!

In the sense that Sora ran after Wiene, Sora have to admit that she's not... Naza nods understandingly and pats him on the back. He could feel a sweat coming on.

Naza: Besides, this is a directive from Lord Miach. Don't ask anything, and go help Sora for me, he said.

Sora: Seriously?

Naza explained that he'd told her he had caused some problems, but she was ready to help him anyway without asking any questions.

Naza: I think Lord Takemikazuchi's familia is probably around here somewhere, too. Hermes seems to have told them that you went to Daedalus Street... Sora, I'm going to say it one more time. You're too reserved.

Miach and Takemikazuchi both chose to save...not the Xenos but Sora, who is trying to save the Xenos. They are trusting him, even though he'd reached out to help monsters. Sora's vision grows blurry at the thought of their response and the kindness of Naza, who has placed her trust in him at a time like this.

Naza:...Sora, have you always been such a crybaby?

Sora: S-sorry! I'm just so happy, to have an amazing friend like you.

Sora quickly wipe his eyes to keep the tears from falling. Naza strokes his hair affectionately. He blush as the other adventurers glance at him curiously.

Naza: So, is there anything I can do? It's just me now, with Daphne and Cassandra gone, of course...

Sora: Then, well...if you insist...

Conscious of Aiz's  and Asuna's watching eyes, he feel under his mantle for the pouch hidden there. As he withdrew one of the items and pass it to Naza, Sora mumble some instructions into her ear.

Naza: Okay, got it...and Sora, you'd better buy a lot of potions from me next time!

Sora: Ha-ha...Will do! If you never trick Bell again that is...

She walks away, waving as she goes. She's given Sora a jolt of energy, and courage.

Aiz(mind): A woman...a chienthrope...

From the roof of the building, Aiz and Asuna watched Sora's meeting with Nahza.

Aiz:...She's stroking his hair.

Unconsciously, her own hand stroked her own hair comfortingly, like a little girl who wants her Big Brother to pat her on the head.

Asuna: Do you really want Sora to pat you that badly? Like he use to while training...?

Aiz blush and an instant later, she realized what she was doing and shook her head as if to clear it.

Asuna:Is he handing her something? I can't watch both of them...I'd better tell Raul.

As Sora and Naza parted. She continued to monitor Sora.

Sora(mind): Naza's help may turn out to be crucial...

After saying good-bye to the chienthrope, Sora head for the southernmost section of the Labyrinth District. He glimpse Aiz and Asuna out of the corner of his  eye a few times—of course they're following him—and start to bring the oculus in his jacket to his lips, intending to get in touch with Hestia. But before he could do so, a shrewish female voice rings in his ear.

Aisha: Sora Yatagami!

Sora: Aisha?

Aisha: What are you screaming about? You sound like a monster is chasing you. Did you mistake me for that big toad of a woman?

Sora: No way! And Ryuu, too!

Sora blink in surprise as Ryuu reaches out a finger and presses it to his lips. She is wearing a hood and a mask that hides her face, while Aisha is dressed like a showgirl.

Ryuu: Greetings, Sora. But please, kindly avoid yelling out my name.

Sora: Wh-what are you doing here?

Ryuu: Andromeda told us everything. We've come to help you.

Aisha: I didn't tell you, but I've joined Hermes Familia. Apparently, there's no such thing as veto power over there.

Given their topic of conversation, they've hunched together like they were having a secret conference. The male adventurers on the street click their tongues in disgust at the sight of Sora's face only a hairbreadth away from the masked Ryuu and the gorgeous, charming Aisha. Their eyes are cold enough to freeze making Sora sweat drop. Sora wanted to tell Ryuu that her Goddess was currently in town, but he remember what Astraea said to him before the meeting.

(Flashback)

Astraea: Sora... Will you please not tell Ryuu that I'm here...?

Sora: But... Don't you want to see her...?

Astraea: After reading all of her letters. She hasn't understand what I said 5 years ago...

Sora: About why she should forget about Justice? Before she starts her revenge...?

Astraea: Yes... So I want to look at her from the shadow for awhile. Until she's ready?

Sora: I-I understand...

(Present)

Ryuu: Andromeda had some requests...

Aisha: I'll take care of that. Is there anything you need? Just say the word.

Sora: Well...

Sora made his request.

Ryuu: That's a rather difficult order...

Aisha: You've got some nerve! You really say the most outrageous things.

Sora: S-sorry! Even if you could just buy me a little time...or is that too difficult?

To be honest, Sora know full well that he'd asked a lot. But he also know that now is not the time to hold back. If he didn't request their help, he won't be able to do a thing.

Ryuu: No... We will do it, if that is what you wish.

Sora: Ryuu...I'm sorry. Thank you so much.

A feeling of deep gratitude wells up in my chest as Sora look into the sky- blue eyes in the depths of her hood. The sensation of Aisha's arm encircling Sora's neck startles him from this pensive mood.

Sora(mind): NO! ASUNA IS WATCHING DAMMIT!!!!

Aisha: Trouble surrounds you, Hero. Or should I say, you can't help sticking your head in it?

Both of Aisha's arms are around Sora's neck now, and she is pulling him toward her. He was surrounded by soft brown skin and the scent of musk. He flush at the feeling of her large breasts against him as she sighs into my ear.

Aisha: I don't mind. But when this is over, I expect to be repaid.

She licks her lips and gives me a fiercely coquettish smile. Sora could feel the blood draining from his cheeks since Asuna is watching the whole thing when—

Ryuu: I thought I told you to keep your hands off him!

Ryuu jabs her wooden sword toward Aisha with frightening force. Aisha dodges the point as if she's been waiting for it—with Sora still pressed into her cleavage. From the shadows of her hood, Ryuu's eyes burn with wrath. This is no show. She's genuinely furious!

Ryuu: Unhand Sora! If you do not, I shall beat you down first.

Aisha: Go ahead and try. I've head my prey stolen out from under me so many times, I'm all kind of pent up.

Sora(mind): Why has the situation suddenly turned violent?! Didn't they say they were going to help me?!

Sora desperately try to wriggle out of his soft brown constraints, but he couldn't break free. He was trapped between the anger of an elf and the body of an Amazon. On top of that, the eyes of the other adventurers are filled with a mixture of resentment and malice.

Sora(mind):Ahhhhhhhhhh......! Wait, I'm being watched right now! Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!!!! Aiz is staring right at me! And Asuna, please don't glare at me!!

Aiz: More women...? An Amazon and...who could that be?

Asuna: Sora~

Aiz and Asuna looked down on the Amazon and the masked figure as they interacted with the boy.

Aiz: Oh, she just pressed her fingers against his lips.

Asuna: And he's being...embraced!

Aiz watched in silence from the edge of the roof as the Amazon pressed Sora to her breast. Seemingly of their own accord, Aiz's legs bent into a crouch to bring her a tiny bit closer to the scene below.

She wrapped her arms around her legs and stared fixedly at Sora. If Aiz's surveillance were rain, this would be a downpour. While Asuna was trying to hold her anger when she saw her boyfriend being surrounded by girls again.

Asuna: Sora~~

Sora(mind): This is bad, this is bad...! I want to run to her and explain everything...!!

When Ryuu, Aisha, and their argument finally leave him, Sora start sweating like a waterfall. The other adventurers seem on the verge of a riot, and he's not fond of their murderous glares, but it's Aiz and Asuna and their constant gaze that are bothering him the most. Aiz expression hasn't changed a bit. Not one bit. But Asuna was ready to kill him any second now. It's like she's asking Sora to die this instant. Sora's heart won't stop thumping.

Sora(mind): Is this another one of your strategies to undermine me, Finn?! I'd better go somewhere with less people...

Or so he thought.

Eina: There you are! Sora!!

The final assassin arrives.

Sora: Miss E-Eina?!

Eina: I finally found you! I've been looking everywhere!

Dressed in her Guild uniform, she heads straight for him. Sora hear malicious whispers of "Again?" around him. His sweat is reaching high tide.

Sora: Wh-what are you doing here?

He ask for the third time tonight.

Eina: I heard you were in Daedalus Street! And when I asked the other adventurers, they very kindly pointed me in your direction!

Eina says passionately. Sora have to admit that given the amount of attention he draw, asking other adventurers could be a good way of finding him.

Sora(mind): Why is Eina mad? I thought that when we met it would be more...awkward?

Ignoring his panic, she walks right up to the tip of his nose.

Eina: No matter how long I waited, you never showed up! So I came to you!

Sora: S-sorry?! Um, I, uh, I felt too ashamed to show my face, so...?!

Eina: I bet you did. You're just that type of guy! When it comes to women, no matter how serious the situation, you're such a chicken that it surprises even me! But don't you think it would have been a good idea to at least get in touch or see me once?

Sora: I-I'm sorry...!

Sora has never seen Eina look this ferocious before. The fault rests entirely with him—He was the one who caused trouble for her and made her worry—so all he could do is apologize profusely. She's angry with him from the depths of her heart, and she's laying into him like a sister berating her younger brother.

Eina: So I'm just some woman you used when it suited you, huh?!

Sora: PLEASE!!! WORD THAT DIFFERENTLY!!!!

Sora yell back as she drops today's biggest bomb yet. The stares of the other adventurers have become even sharper. Sora had already hit rock bottom, but now a scrap of garbage would have a better reputation than him. He could hear them hurling insults and curses his way.

Adventurer 1: He's the worst.

Adventurer 2: An enemy of women everywhere!

Adventurer 3: Go screw yourself!

Sora(mind): Ahhhhhhhhh...!!

Sora was too scared to even glance in Asuna's direction.

Eina: I'm not letting you go until you've answered every single one of my questions!

Sora: What? That's—?!

Eina takes Sora's arm, and once again he find himself pressed against a woman's body. He turn beet red, then white—his elbow is touching Eina's chest and all the adventurers are glaring at him. But also because of his girlfriend glare burning into the back of his head. It's like some kind of divine punishment. This must be the price of making Eina cry that day.

Aiz: It's...another woman again...?

Aiz was acutely aware of Sora's meeting with Eina. Asuna had already snapped when she heard Eina said that Sora only use women when it suits him.

Aiz: All women, no men.

Asuna: So~ he used women when it suits him does he?!

Aiz sunk into a silence that reached the depths of her heart. As she sat with her arms wrapped around her knees, her eyes relentlessly bored into her big brother's black head. She could make out phrases such as just some woman you used. Sora turned red, then white, as rapidly as a quick-change artist. He looked restless. Aiz cocked her head to one side, her golden hair spilling over her shoulder.

Aiz: Is Big Brother...a playboy?

Asuna: You just realized that!!

A moment later, Sora's cry split the night sky.

(Elsewhere)

Haruhime: I've been hearing Master Sora screaming for a while now...

Hestia: I know. I want to warn him not to make so much noise, but since we're separated, there's nothing I can do.

Hestia answered, crossing her arms over her chest. Sora's wails were coming from the oculus. Hestia and the kimono- clad Haruhime were in the southwest section of Daedalus Street, practically on its border with the Pleasure Quarter. They had taken up a position on top of an empty tower with a good view of the city.

Hestia: And, Haruhime, please be careful about talking near the crystal because it'll pick up the sound.

Haruhime: Oh, I'm so sorry!

Haruhime said, pressing both hands to her mouth and jumping back from the oculus. A number of oculi were lined up on the roof, and beside them was spread a map the size of a carpet. THE LEGACY OF DAEDALUS—its name—was inscribed in one corner. The original Sage had walked the area on bony feet to create the drawing of the Labyrinth District.

Fels: I wasn't able to get out much, but I did manage to survey the area.

Despite this modest claim of having missed some of the hidden alleys and doors, the map included routes that even residents of Daedalus Street didn't know about. The hundreds and thousands of figures noted on the sheet—from the widths of streets to the number of potential bottlenecks—made Hestia feel faint the first time she laid eyes on it. There was one more important point about the map. A number of names was written on it, and they were moving about as if they were alive.

Hestia: Let's see...it looks like Sora and Supporter are in the south section as planned... Bell and Rin are in the west section as planned...

Haruhime: But over in the west, Lady Mikoto and Master Welf haven't met up with the Xenos yet, it seems.

Hestia was on all fours on top of the map, while Haruhime bent over it with her hands on her knees. They were following the various names as they moved around, and Hestia traced after them with her finger.

Haruhime: Master Welf, Lady Mikoto, uh...Please turn at the third corner.

Hestia: There will be a sewage drain running along the left-hand side of the road. That's where the Xenos are hiding.

Welf: Got it.

Mikoto: Thank you, Lady Haruhime and Lady Hestia!

The power of the Seeker Powder and the oculi—which together allowed Hestia and Haruhime to instantly determine everyone's location and communicate with them—had turned the rooftop into an outdoor command and combat operations center. What happened here would determine the destiny of the Xenos, who would need to make their way through the convoluted maze of Daedalus Street and then into the underground Knossos.

Since Hestia had zero fighting ability, she was charged with directing the operation from behind the scenes. Haruhime served as her assistant and, in case of emergency, would sortie to give Bell and their other fighters a level boost.

Hestia: Now if only this told us where the enemy was, too, it would be perfect.

Haruhime: That is true...If that were the case, we could get through this whole thing without bumping into Loki Familia at all.

Hestia: Of course we can't ask them for their blood...

The image of a certain goddess's face floated in her mind, and her thoughts jumped back in time.

(Flashback)

Hestia: Loki. I want to talk to you about the armed monsters.

It was the previous day, and Hestia and Sora had just separated in Daedalus Street. Those were the first words out of her mouth after he left.

Hestia: Now, and alone.

Loki: Sure, whatever. As long as it doesn't take too long.

Perhaps there was something in Hestia's serious expression that made Loki agree; she followed her to an oval courtyard with a fountain in it.

Hestia: The monsters who appeared on the surface are called Xenos. They are intelligent. And why Sora keeps calling them human.

Hestia went on to explain everything she knew about the Xenos and her familia's connection to them. It was a gamble. Knowing Loki, it was quite possible that she would find the information amusing and broadcast it to the whole city. But if she knew the truth about these recent events, it would surely have some impact on Loki Familia. Hestia spoke with the hope that Loki would act with some semblance of a goddess's character.

Loki: Wow...Monsters who can communicate. Now I understand why Sora-chi calls them human.

Loki didn't seem especially surprised by Hestia's words. She narrowed her vermilion eyes.

Loki: So now that you've spilled the beans, what do you want from me?

Hestia: I want you to help us live peacefully with the Xenos. Maybe that's too much—if you would just ignore them for the time being—

Loki interrupted her with a mocking laugh.

Loki: What are you, an idiot?

With those five words, she dashed Hestia's hopes.

Hestia: ...!

Loki: Itty-Bitty. Do you know who the leader of our faction is?

Hestia: Braver, Finn Deimne?

Loki: And what's the name of our faction?

Hestia: Loki Familia, the strongest faction in the city?

Loki: You're damn right it is. Finn is the hope of the pallum and the star of Orario as much as Sora-chi. It's kind of a pain, but we're the top familia in the city. Do you have any idea what people would do if we sided with the monsters?

Hestia could find nothing to say.

Loki: If I tried to force my cute little children to do something like that, they'd laugh me out of town. They'd say, 'Loki, you've taken your jokes too far. Time to quit your fun and games.' They might even turn against me and leave. As for Finn, he's been in this for his own interests from the start—he wouldn't think twice about deserting me.

Contrary to her comment about Finn's coldly calculating attitude, Loki actually seemed to be enjoying herself.

Loki: What Finn wants is fame for reviving a familia. He's not gonna do anything to mess up his own reputation unlike Sora-chi. He can't. So making nice with monsters is out of the question...Your kids are proof enough of what would happen if people found out.

Hestia(mind): Now I understand why Sora called Finn a coward other than Brave.

Loki: Finn's ambitions are never going to match up with what you want.

There was no way Loki Familia under Finn's leadership and Hestia Familia seeking to protect the monsters were going to reach an understanding.

Loki: Anyway, Finn already has a pretty good idea what those Xenos things are like.

Hestia: !!!

Loki: But he hasn't told Aiz and the others much. You know why?

Since Hestia hesitated, Loki went on.

Loki: Because it will slow them down. It might make his cute little underlings hesitate before acting. And most of all...if the truth about the Xenos came to light, it would shake the foundation of Orario.

Telling everyone about the Xenos might be their salvation, but it also posed a risk to people's lives. Could Hestia honestly say that all the adventurers who learned about the Xenos would remain able to slay other monsters without a moment's hesitation? She could not. And a moment's falter would put their lives at risk. That could be fatal for Orario, the city that flourished thanks to the Dungeon's existence. Finn knew that.

Hestia did, too. When the fighting between Loki Familia and the Xenos had broken out in the Labyrinth District, neither she nor Fels had broadcast the fact that these were intelligent monsters. They feared taking the irrevocable risk of causing chaos throughout the mortal world. Sora knew that Finn would not listen to any of their pleas. If any townsfolk were watching, he would unquestionably kill the "monsters," even if he knew they were harmless. That was the kind of unwavering spirit and extreme ambition he had.

Hestia(mind): So this is what Sora meant when Finn Diemne is just a man-made Hero... Not a True Hero...

Loki: Basically, it's impossible, right? The idea of our children living together peacefully with monsters.

Hestia: That depends...

Loki: A lot of us idiotic gods would probably see it as a mystery or a bit of entertainment. But the children are a different story. They hate monsters with their hearts and souls. That's why I'm afraid.

Loki sighed before continuing.

Loki: What was that sickness that killed a whole bunch of the children...? Oh yeah, the Red Death. If that sickness wreaked its havoc and then came along saying, 'Hey, I want to make friends with mankind; I promise I won't kill anyone else,' do you think our children would just shake hands and make friends with it?

Hestia:...

Loki: Not a chance. They'd be way too scared. They'd know that even if the sickness didn't want to, it could make them all suffer and die. On the spur of the moment, as easily as breathing.

Monsters had left a swath of destruction all over the world, killing hundreds of millions. Even now, they were killing people. They had menacing bodies, claws and fangs that were the very symbols of bloodshed, flames that invited death, and beastly voices. Everything about them embodied slaughter. Loki was implying that for the inhabitants of the mortal plane, monsters were the same as a devastating disease or natural disaster.

In this case, the "sickness that wreaked havoc" would be the Xenos. And letting in this "sickness" without a vaccine on hand could lead to nothing but self-destruction.

Loki: So I'm deaf to your requests. Everything is up to Finn—all our decisions and all our actions.

Hestia had been looking down and biting her lip, but at Loki's next words she raised her head.

Loki: In exchange, I'll keep my mouth shut about what you told me today.

Hestia: Huh?

Loki: I'm saying I'll pretend I never heard a thing from you. I won't tell Finn what your familia is planning to do. I'll just stand by and watch.

Hestia: What are you after?

Loki: Oh, this and that...I guess I'm just one of those gods who loves a little mystery and amusement.

Loki replied teasingly before turning to walk away.

Hestia: Wait, Loki!

Loki: Bye, Itty Bitty. Thanks for helping me kill some time.

With a half-hearted wave, the vermilion-haired goddess disappeared from Hestia's view.

(Present)

Hestia(mind): I don't know what Loki is thinking...but it seems like we won't need to watch her.

In a sense, she was the most annoying trickster of them all, and now they wouldn't have to worry about her getting in their way. At least something useful had come from the conversation. That was Hestia's conclusion as she returned her focus to the present.

Hestia: The rest all depends on Bell and the others...

Hestia murmured. She looked up. Thinning clouds veiled the night sky. The broken watch lying next to the map beside her ticked. The appointed time had come.

(Elsewhere)

Lido looked up at the deep-blue sky. No longer hidden by clouds, it was an endless sea of stars.

Lido: I'm finally able to see the sky I longed for...but only by sneaking around like this. Perhaps we are creatures of the shadows after all.

Lido said softly through his fangs, mocking himself. The lizardman warrior's two misshapen, scaly feet were planted on the edge of the dark sewer. He stayed gazing up at the sky. He was searching for one tiny hope, fainter than a star, in the infinite heavens.

Wellf: Sorry to keep you waiting.

Rei: Welf! Mikoto!

Mikoto: Long time no see...Well, it hasn't actually been that long...but I'm glad you're looking well, Wiene. Everyone! I'm glad to see you're all safe!

Wiene: Is Papa going to be alright?

Gros: For now, just have faith in your father, Wiene. We're going to repay his kindness, right?

Wiene: Yes.

Lido turned around at the sound of Wiene's happy voice, just in time to see her reunited with Welf and Mikoto. They were carrying a large sack stuffed with stink bags to cover up the scent of Lido and the others. With his brethren, he formed a circle around the overjoyed vouivre and humans. The sight of their carefree smiles was priceless. They were the hope of the Xenos. Every time Lido saw their smiles, an impudent wish reared its head.

Lido(mind): What more can you ask for than this?

Lido's inner voice warned him...yet still he felt himself reaching out for something more.

Lido(mind): I want a future where we walk side by side.

Fels: Lido, it's time. We're counting on you!

Lido: Ah, yes.

At the urging of Fels, who was looking down at the broken watch, Lido emerged from the sewer. Then, with an agility surprising for his enormous body, he scaled a building and sprang onto the roof. He looked out over the city submerged in darkness and apologized silently to all its unknown inhabitants. Then he made his decision. He filled his chest with air and, in a single rush, let it all out.

Lido: OWOOOoooooooooooooooooo.........

The monster's howl shook the black night. The long, low cry echoed through every corner of the Labyrinth District and out to the edges of the city. Adventurers everywhere lifted their heads in unison. Townsfolk shuddered with fear. All of them stopped whatever they were doing. They knew the time had come. Once again, the war cry of the resurgent monsters sounded the arrival of upheaval in the city.

Xenos: OHOOooooo.........

Fels: They've answered.

Fels said, turning away quickly from the sound. The shrill howl that rent the night sky just after Lido's resembled the cry of a young girl. The siren squinted with concentration.

Rei: I can hear Fia and Lett, Helga, but not Aruru... nor Ddraig's voice...

Gros: We definitely would hear them if she was howling. Either they're keeping quiet or something is preventing her from making any noise....

The baying continued to echo back and forth across the sky. It was a language that only the monsters understood. Humans and deities could not discern the true meaning of those howls. They were a kind of report communicating each monster's location, target destination, and all other important information.

Fels: All we can do is go. We will have faith in them.

At Fels's command, the Xenos filed away from the sewer, melting into the darkness.

(Timeskip)

The strategy began with Lilly.

Adventurer 1: What are those monsters braying about?

Adventurer 2: Find where those cries are coming from!

The howling had sent the adventurers in Daedalus Street into an uproar. Amid the chaos, a young pallum boy snuck down a back alley. Once he was out of view, he drew close to a dingy wall and put his hand to his forehead.

Lili: Stroke of midnight's bell.

A film of gray light enwrapped the boy's body and then melted away to reveal Lili, who had just deactivated the shape-shifting Cinder Ella spell.

Lili: Ooh, I hate this. It's so scary. If the adventurers catch me, they'll kill me on the spot. Why do I have to be the one to do it...?

Mumbling to herself dramatically, she prepared for what she had to do next. She lowered her chestnut eyebrows and closed her eyes.

Lili: Your scars are mine. My scars are mine.

As her petite lips uttered the chant, the magic once again transformed her appearance. In an instant, she was wearing a bulky blue battle jacket and a broken watch around her neck. She had a fluffy round tail, long ears, and round, shifty red eyes. She had become an al-miraj, or rabbit monster.

Lili: Kuuuuu! [I can't do this!]

Lili shrieked with her no-longer-human voice. The adventurers quickly found her.

Adventurer 1: I—I see one!

Adventurer 2: A monster! In the alley!

Shouting wildly, they poured from the main avenue into the side street. Mad with desire for a bounty, eyes bloodshot, swords and axes hoisted, they chased their prey as it hopped this way and that.

Lili(mind): Those greedy bastards! No wonder adventurers have a lousy reputation!

Putting her own identity aside for the moment. Lili uttered a rabbit's curses. Still, the adventurers were a ferocious and quick-witted bunch. Cinder Ella allowed her to change her appearance but not to take on a Status higher than her own or a monster's potential. Some of the adventurers pursuing her were upper class, and since she was merely an ordinary supporter, she feared they would quickly catch her. Fact of the matter was, they nearly did catch her more than once. Every time that happened, she fled into a blind corner and quickly deactivated Cinder Ella.

Lili: Stroke of midnight's bell.

Once back in her own form, Lili walked right past the demonic adventurers, feigning innocence. Transform, deactivate. Transform, deactivate. Her pursuers' irritation mounted each time the al-miraj disappeared just before being caught. Every time their shoulders and bodies collided as they crisscrossed every celch of the narrow alleys, an exchange of shouting and verbal abuse would follow. With the sound of growing chaos in her ears, Lili used her magic over and over again, panting as she frantically hopped around the Labyrinth District.

Lili: Master Sora, I hate you...!

Even as she cursed Sora who had devised this plan, however, Lili poured everything she had into her designated role.

(Elsewhere)

The next strategy comes with Rin.

Rin: Lili's on the move, so I better make mine...

Rin who was on the west of Daedalus Street, raised her staff and hits the ground a few times when suddenly, mist and fogs started appearing left and right. And not only that, multiple mirage monsters started appearing here and there as the mist and fog completely cover the whole Daedalus Streets.

Rin: Now try to kill them. If you can see that is... Its either the real thing or a mirage...

Rin said while smiling as Sora told her to use fire, earth, and water spell and mix them together to create smokes that could even create afterimages. And thanks to the Magic Item that Fels gave them, only the Hestia Familia and a few others could tell which is real and which is fake.

Rin: I guess I better make my other destination.

(Elsewhere)

Sora was in a different part of the Labyrinth District's south side, but the frantic shouts of the adventurers had spread to where he was. And mist and fog started appearing through their area as well.

Sora(mind): Rin and Lili had made their move.

Eina: !!!

Eina, who had been stunned by the howling of Lido and the other Xenos, was still holding Sora close to her. Now that an opportune moment had arrived, Sora carefully extracted his arm from hers. By the time she noticed, he was already running.

Sora: Miss Eina! I'm sorry! You can get as mad as you want at me later!

Eina: Sora! Oh you...!

Eina's indignation was only for show, however. In truth, she wanted to run after him. No—she wanted to stop him from going. She was beside herself with worry that he would run straight into danger and get himself hurt. But Sora was a Hero and Eina was a Guild employee. She had come this far fueled by personal feelings and passion, but now she had to fulfill her duty as a worker.

Eina: I missed my chance to give it to him.

She glanced down at the band on her right arm, her expression changing from anger to worry. Meanwhile, Sora was running straight down the street away from Eina.

Hestia: Sora. It seems that two of the lost Xenos are on the east side of Daedalus Street.

Hestia's muffled voice filtered through his mantle from the gauntlet underneath. Fels must told her the location of the Xenos who responded to Lido's call, and now she was relaying it to him.

Sora:Hmm...That's a good distance from where I am on the south side. So... leave that to Bell!

Sora whispered into the oculus.

Hestia: Please keep focusing on diverting attention, as we planned.

Sora nodded.

Sora(mind): I'm sorry Aiz, Asuna. But I need to shook you both a bit!

Sora then started running even faster and not even Aiz and Asuna could no longer after him.

Aiz: He really is fast!

Asuna: He's only using 5% of his speed! Let's go, Aiz! Auros!!

Aiz: Tempest!!

Both of them activated their enchantment magic to increase their speed and they were barely able to keep up Sora's 5% speed. Sora glanced over his shoulder at Aiz and Asuna, who was following him by running from rooftop to rooftop. He increased his pace and turned down one of the innumerable alleys branching off the main road.

Adventurer 1: !

Adventurer 2: Hurry up, before you lose sight of him!

Skirting the pack of adventurers on the wild goose chase after Lili, Sora headed to the neighboring southeastern district. The adventurers followed. Sora was happy to lure them this far, but now he needed some way to pin them there so they would stay in the southeast while he continued on.

Sora(Mind): Naza, Muller and Ryuu, I'm counting on you for the rest!

He slipped into a shadow where his followers could not see him, withdrew a stink bag, and sprinkled the contents over his head to mask his scent. Then he pulled off his black mantle, turned it inside out, and threw it back on so that it covered his entire body. The next instant, he had disappeared without a trace.

Adventurer 3: ?!

Adventurer 1: Where'd the Lightning Flash go?

Sora listened to the hubbub all around him. He could sense Aiz's astonishment as well. But Asuna was a different matter, she was still lock on the place where Sora is hiding. He had used the Reverse Veil, one of Fels's magic items. Like Asfi's Hades Head, it turned whoever wore it invisible. But in contrast with the Kaos Head, which made its wearer invisible no matter what, Sora's veil was reversible, so the user could benefit from its powers as needed. An ordinary mantle swiftly became a tool for secrecy and stealth. Leaving the surprised adventurers and Aiz behind, Sora moved away, still veiled.

Adventurer 1: Where is that twerp hiding...?

The adventurers searching for Sora were growing irritated at the complicated streets and numerous obstacles. Just then, they noticed something.

Adventurers: What's that sweet smell...?

The animal people were the first to notice, but soon others, too, were sniffing suspiciously at the faint perfume. They forgot their suspicion, however, when a human in the pack shouted out.

Adventurer 1: I saw him! The Lightning Flash! He went into that house!

A crazed look came over the adventurers' faces, and they rushed in the direction he was pointing. Swearing at Sora for putting them through so much trouble, they burst into a barrack in a back alley.

Adventurer 4: Not that one, this one! Over by the main road!

Adventurer 1: What?!

Adventurer 5: M-monster! It's a monster!

Amid all the shouts flying back and forth, the adventurers began to get confused. What should they make of all the claims of monster sightings or of the fact that Sora Yatagami seemed to be popping up in multiple places? Each band of adventurers began to distrust all the others, suspecting they were trying to trick the rest and slip away.

Adventurer 1: Hey, I don't see anything in here at all! Not a monster or the Lightning Flash!

Adventurer 2: B-but it's true! He's over there—behind you!

The dwarf turned his head in the direction the animal person—also an upper-class adventurer—was pointing, but not a soul was there. Flushed with fury, he punched the animal person in the face.

Naza: Wow...these things really do make people hallucinate!

She was standing at a distance, listening to the angry and confused voices inside the building as she pressed a damp scarf to her nose. In her other hand, she held two wilted flowers. Their petals were blue and red, and when she looked closely she could make out fine grains of golden pollen floating from them. They were another of Fels's magic items.

To use the flowers, the person first had to impress a certain image on their memory. Whoever breathed in the pollen after that would see visions of that object or person. Certain abilities warded off the illusions, but in a large group of adventurers like this, they were rather effective. Lower-class adventurers and upper-class adventurers who hadn't yet gained any immunity shouted out alerts about whatever they saw. The flowers had plunged both the southern sector, where Lili was, and the southeastern sector into chaos.

Holding the magic flowers in one hand, Naza wandered through the night streets as she pleased. Sora had explained how the flowers worked and asked her to simply walk around the southern part of Daedalus Street holding them.

Naza: I wonder where he got these...I'd sure love to know.

Fascinated by the flowers, Naza tilted her head quizzically.

Naza: What could Sora and his familia be up to...?

(Elsewhere)

Aiz: He's disappeared?

Aiz had been sprinting from roof to roof as she followed Sora. Now she peered down, astonishment in her golden eyes. She'd thought he was simply hiding in the shadows for a moment, but he'd suddenly disappeared. She stopped running and searched the surrounding area from her high perch.

Aiz: No... There he is...

Aiz through the tick fog saw Sora heading east and she was about to follow him, but Asuna stopped her.

Asuna: Wait Aiz. That's not Sora...

Aiz look at Asuna who was closing her eyes as she was trying to scanned the area.

Asuna: This fog is getting ticker by the second. What your seeing is just a mirage... The real, Sora is... This way...

Asuna knows Sora better than anyone. She knows what Sora's strategy is. While the after image went east, the real Sora will went west. Aiz nodded her head and the two of them sped through the Labyrinth District in pursuit of the real Sora.

Ryuu: Sword Princess.

Aiz and Asuna: !!

A figure was blocking Aiz's way forward. The masked adventurer who stood before her wore a long hooded cape and long boots resembling Aiz's own. She drew a wooden sword from her hip.

Ryuu: I'd like to spar with you.

Aiz looked at her in surprise.

Aiz: Now?...Here?

As a leader of the city's largest faction, Aiz had dealt with surprise attacks many times. An assault from an unknown foe was nothing surprising. Neither was it unusual for a fighter confident in her swordsmanship to ask for a contest with the Sword Princess. She was only surprised that it was happening in this situation.

Ryuu: I am another dweller in the shadows. If not for a situation like this, I would not be able to cross swords with you.

Her quiet voice did not sound as if it was lying. And interestingly enough, this fighter had an aura not entirely unlike the Sword Princess's. Aiz felt a twinge of something akin to empathy. But could the timing really be a coincidence? Her hand on the hilt of her favorite sword, she thought of her Big Brother speeding away from her.

Asuna: I'll be going ahead. Follow me when you're finish...

Asuna went alone leaving Aiz behind.

Ryuu: You will accept my request.

Aiz was still trying to decide whether or not to ignore the request when the masked adventurer flew at her on sure feet, her sword slicing the air.

Aiz(mind): She was incredibly fast!

The speed of the stranger's wooden sword suggested she was a first-tier adventurer. Left with no choice, Aiz drew her own weapon. As the sound of blade hitting blade echoed into the night, the momentum of the fight carried the two combatants from the roof down to the alley below. Aiz knew that even if she had prioritized the pursuit of Sora, the masked adventurer would likely have followed her. Since that would prevent her from watching her Big Brother properly, she had decided to return the attack of the opponent at hand.

Aiz(mind): Those sparks of light...

Watching as brilliant specks drifted from beneath the masked adventurer's cape, Aiz remained locked in swordplay.

(Elsewhere)

Asuna was still chasing after her invisible boyfriend. She was still in thought after she had seen Sora's memories. The thought of Xenos. Sora fighting against Revis, PoH, and Dix to save them. And finally, Wiene who was Yui's reincarnation.

Asuna(mind): Yui... Where are you...?

Asuna want nothing more to see the Dragon girl right now. So if she continues to follow Sora, she could see her again.

Muller: Miss Asuna Yuuki.

Asuna: !!

An Elf was blocking Asuna's way forward. Holding her sword and short sword forward her hand aiming towards Asuna.

Asuna: You're Muller if I'm correct...

Muller: Indeed. I would like to spar with you as well.

Asuna:...

Muller: I would like to see with my own eyes. Just how strong is the strongest Magical Swordswoman? The High Elf Princess that is known to be the strongest in the world that surpasses even Lady Riveria herself...

Her quiet voice did not sound as if it was lying. And interestingly enough, this fighter had an aura not entirely unlike the Berserk Healer. Asuna felt a twinge of something akin to empathy.

Muller: Pardon me, but I insist.

Asuna was still trying to decide whether or not to ignore the request when Muller flew at her on sure feet, her sword slicing the air.

Asuna(mind): I guess I have no choice!!

Left with no choice, Asuna drew her own weapon. As the sound of blade hitting blade echoed into the night, the momentum of the fight carried the two combatants from the roof down to the alley below.

(Elsewhere)

Haruhime: Um, is that elf and Miss Muller going to be okay...?

A worried look on her face, Haruhime gazed in the direction of the masked adventurer and Muller. Hestia, who was looking down at the magical map, also followed her movements.

Hestia: All we can do is trust them. They are a very capable fighter, but judging by what I saw in Daedalus Street, that Wallenwhatsit and Asuwhatsit is unbelievably strong... By borrowing the strength of your Level Boost, they should managed somehow.

Shortly before, Ryuu, and Muller, had visited Hestia and Haruhime at their post on the southern edge of the Labyrinth District. Sora had asked them to prevent Aiz and Asuna from following him, and as per his instructions, she had come for a level boost. Haruhime's powerful sorcery was indispensable if Ryuu and Muller were going to take up much of the Sword Princess's and Berserk Healer time. And so, in the southeastern section of the Labyrinth District, a battle far too fierce for an ordinary skirmish was playing out between Level 5 and Level 6 adventurers.

Sora: Goddess!

Hestia: Sora?

Sora: Thanks to Ryuu and Muller, I was able to get away from Aiz and Asuna...but I haven't been able to attract any of the other Loki Familia members. Just like I thought, they only used Asuna and Aiz to watch over me.

Bell: Maybe I should go to Wiene and the others to help?

Hestia: Wait a second, Bell.

Sora: Not knowing your location must be scary for Loki Familia. At the very least, worry will be lurking at the back of their minds. You know yourself how difficult an invisible enemy can be, right?

Bell: Well, yes...

Hestia: Do you still have any magic items? If you do, I want you to stay invisible and cause some disturbance among the adventurers. And don't let Loki Familia find you. Our supporters should be making their move soon, too.

Sora: Just search for the missing Xenos and ask for their blood so Goddess and Haruhime could see it through the map.

Bell: Got it!

Having convinced Bell to hold firm, Hestia let out a sigh of relief. But a moment later, she was frowning.

Hestia: Or so I say...but that's the Loki Familia for you. Loki Familia's formation hasn't budged.

Haruhime: Master Sora, Lady Rin, Lady Lilly and Master Bell are doing their best....

Despite the frenetic movements of Sora's and Lili's symbols on the map, however, Loki Familia still encircled the central zone of the Labyrinth District. At least the magic-stone lanterns they could see from the roof hadn't moved. Lifting their gazes from the magic map, the goddess and the girl looked out impatiently at the central zone.

Sora(mind): Currently we have 4 keys to Knossos. But to our enemies, they might think that we have 2. Since Finn never suspected that I've got 2 keys in my position.

(Elsewhere)

Finn: So they've made their move.

Information had begun to come in after the monsters signaled the start of the battle with their howls.

Aki: Word is an al-miraj showed up to the south! And there have been multiple monster sightings in the southeast, too!

Elfie: Sora Yatagami was in the southeast as well! And, uh, Aiz and Asuna has lost track of him...

Finn: As I said before, Sora Yatagami is a diversion. Leave him to Aiz and Asuna and forget about it. We don't need to do anything in the south or the southeast yet. The west is where I smell something suspicious. Elfie, tell Tione and the others in the northwest to move to the ninety-eighth block and take up positions there.

In fact, the news that Sora had managed to shake off Aiz and Asuna didn't surprised Finn, but he didn't let it show as he rapidly fired off commands. Seeing the calm demeanor of the captain, the other familia members remained composed themselves, responding with a "Yes, Captain!" before briskly setting to work.

Aki: What about this fog, Captain? It's getting ticker by the second?

Finn: This must be a spell! And all of those monsters that we saw are all illusions!! Don't let it fool you!!

They were in Daedalus Street's central zone. Like Hestia, Finn had installed himself on top of a tall building with a good view of the whole district. The wide-open, windswept rooftop brought to mind an old castle. Loki Familia communicated by signaling with magic-stone lamps. Familia members were on standby on various rooftops, continually updating central command about what was happening on the ground by flashing the lamps.

Finn(mind): Something must have prevented Aiz and Asuna from moving. An ambush? I hadn't expected the enemy to be so strong...but it's fine. Aiz and Asuna will probably be back on track soon.

Finn had rested the shaft of his long spear against his right shoulder and was thinking about the situation.

Finn(mind): The real enemy group is probably fairly large. The fog and those illusions are making our lookouts and scouts confused to where they're real or not. Most likely means either that one of them is very familiar with the terrain in Daedalus Street or they have some kind of magic item. Maybe both.

Finn had deduced that the enemy was clustered in one main group due to the likely number of keys to Knossos. Based on the information from Ikelos, he guessed there were no more than two. And there would be no point in the monsters reaching Knossos, which was below the zone that Loki Familia was currently guarding, if they weren't able to open the door.

Counting adventurers from other factions, Finn's side was patently superior to the monsters in both number and might. And if the two sides encountered each other, it was very unlikely that the enemy would spread out and attack from all directions. That would not be an option for creatures so unwilling to leave behind any of their brethren. Finn had witnessed their strong camaraderie when he crossed swords with them before.

The fact that they had risked revealing their location by letting out those howls must mean they were signaling the crimson-Red Juggernaut and the other monsters who had been separated during the battle several days before

Finn(mind): The enemy's movements are what worries me...despite what I said about the west being the most suspicious.

Finn looked down at his right hand. His thumb was not throbbing. He looked back out at the Labyrinth District, then turned to a faction member he had held back with him.

Finn: Any news about the Red Juggernaut ?

Aki: Nothing so far.

Finn: I see...We'll hold the formation. For now, I'm going to wait and see what happens.

The pallum faction leader said. He resumed his quiet watch.

(Elsewhere)

Raul: Wow...the captain is incredible. Just like he said, the battle has begun.

In short, the distinguished leaders of the faction, in whose presence he simply withered, constantly overwhelmed him. Even now, the human boy was in awe of Finn's ability to accurately assess the state of the battle, and he whispered in amazement as he looked out over the southern and southwestern areas, which were roiling with activity.

Finn(Lili): Raul!

He turned around, surprised by the voice calling his name.

Raul: Um, uh...Captain?!

It was the very same pallum commander he had just been marveling at. Raul was in the western sector of the Labyrinth District, on a line of defense some distance from the central zone. The sight of Finn walking along the front, not back at headquarters where everyone expected him to be, threw other familia members present into similar confusion.

Raul: Wh-why are you here, Captain? Don't you need to be directing the action...?

Finn(Lili): The main monster force has arrived in the southeast! And so has the Red Juggernaut! Meet Aiz there and crush them! Tell your unit—we're changing formation! I'll join you there!

Raul: Y-Yes, sir!

Raul said, standing at attention and responding reflexively to Finn's strong tone as he mentioned the Red Juggernaut.

Finn(Lili): Also, Raul, do you remember our positions in Knossos?

Raul: Uh, do you mean the underground Knossos? I remember, but—

Finn(Lili): Tell me what they are. Something has been bothering me.

Raul was flustered but obeyed Finn's command.

Raul: Uh, Gareth and his group should be guarding the four doors we discovered—northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast...

Finn(Lili): I see...Well then, I'll head out first. Gather everyone in this area and come to the southeast.

Raul: Yes, sir!

As Finn set off in that direction, Raul shifted into frantic action, passing on his leader's command to those posted near him. He was a bit concerned that no similar order had come through the signaling device, but he told himself it was all right because he'd heard it directly from Finn himself. He ceded his own judgment to the order from his eminently accomplished superior.

Raul(mind): But what happened to the captain's spear...?

The memory of Finn standing there empty-handed struck him as strange.

Finn(Lili): Huff, puff...!

Finn was running at full speed. He flew down the steps at the end of the alley, looked around to make sure that no one was nearby, and then, still running, pressed a hand to his forehead.

Finn(Lili): Stroke of midnight's bell.

Finn's form instantly dissolved into thin air. In his place stood Lili.

Lili: I did it!

Once again, she'd used Cinder Ella.

Lili: My apologies to you, Mister Finn, but that fuss over the marriage proposal really came in handy!

Cinder Ella allowed Lilly to transform her external appearance, but she couldn't fool anyone unless she imitated the personality of whomever she was impersonating. When Finn proposed to her, she had come to understand his character, and in that sense the experience was now proving extremely useful. Her sharp insight, honed through her former career as a thief, had efficiently analyzed Finn's speech patterns, mannerisms, and character.

It wasn't that the memory of his earnest feelings left her completely cold, but her own life and that of the Xenos were on the line. She had no other option. And so, to deceive Loki Familia, she had transformed herself into a spot-on copy of Finn. Lili's role in the storming of Daedalus Street was both to create a distraction, like Bell, and to use his actions as a cover for spying.

Most of Loki Familia's members were upper-class adventurers, and the Guild made their basic profiles public. In order to successfully fulfill her role as spy, Lili had memorized them all. Her old thief's sense had told her that the High Novice would be the easiest to control, and therefore she had targeted him.

Lili: He's as simple as Master Bell!

Quite pleased with herself, she insulted both adventurers at once as she took an oculus out of her pocket. Her cheeks flushed, she shouted into the crystal the information she'd extracted.

Lili: As we suspected, the guards are posted at the northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast doors of Knossos.

Sora: Nice work, Lili!

Hestia: Well done, Supporter!

Haruhime: Lady Lilly, you're amazing!

Having listened to Lili's report through the oculus, Sora, Hestia and Haruhime applauded her.

Hestia: With this, we'll be able to breach their defenses...!

Hestia Familia's ace in the hole was Daedalus's Notebook. As Fels had pointed out, there was a high likelihood that Loki Familia had not discovered all the entry points shown in the book's maps. The aim of Lilly's spying had been to find an unobstructed route into Knossos. Hestia flipped through the pages of the book, which she had with her in addition to the map spread out on the rooftop. She was trying to figure out which of the unguarded entrances to the upper floor of Knossos—in other words, the one directly below Daedalus Street—was closest to the Xenos's current location.

Hestia: The west one! Fels, the western door is unguarded!

Fels: Thank you, Goddess Hestia!

The blue crystal at the far end of the row of oculus—the one connected to Fels—sparkled brightly. As the breakthrough had commenced