Chapter 27: Aftermath. Relief in Kyoto.

Opening 2: Devil Trigger - Casey Edwards

-Aristides was seen with Kunou and Issei at his side. They were walking to the background as the sight suddenly pans to show their iconic weapons. All three had their backs at the reader's view before they zoomed out. They soon launched their projectile attacks to the audience before the story's title was shown.

'The darkest of night falls around my soul

And the hunter within loses control.'

-Aristides was shown with the left half of his face up close. From the right, terrible memories of his past surfaced.-

'Gotta let it out, gotta let it out

Gotta let it out, gotta let it out'

-Aristides was clutching his head, desperately holding his rage back. Anger from the Devils grew within his body. His body began to exude an immense power.-

'This demon inside has a hold of me

Clenching its power, trying to break free'

-Issei soon followed, holding his left arm in pain. Kunou too followed as she felt her power overwhelm her body.-

'Gotta let it out, gotta let it out

Gotta let it out, gotta let it out'

-Soon, all three teens had their power explode within them.-

'Move fast baby, don't be slow

Step aside, reload, time to go'

-Aristides was seen shooting from his bow before dashing forward with a large horizontal swipe from his Fusion Sword.-

'I can't seem to control

All this rage that's inside me'

-Issei had his shapeshifting sword on him. It turned into the Buster Sword. His angered eyes glowed with a green glow.-

'Hold it fast, they've been dancing on this

Branded by fire on the abyss'

-Kunou has flames coursing around her body. She too had an angered expression as her blue flames surged within her.-

'Red hot temper, I just can't resist

All this vengeance inside me'

-All three teens had a determined, serious expression. They looked at the sky, which had a red hue. From within, the Devils were shown with a feared expression. All three teens walked menacingly to the Devils. They began fighting in a deadly dance of swords as they killed them with no mercy. Each Devil slain matched the beat of the song.-

'All of these thoughts running through my head'

-Aristides's memory of his mother perishing flashed in his mind. It made him grunt before focusing in a battle.-

'I'm on fire, veins burning red'

-Issei remembered seeing the ugliness of the Devils and aimed his left hand at them. His right hand was holding the shapeshifting sword, which now looked like a German great knife.-

'Frustration is getting bigger'

-Kunou swung Kashagiri Hiromitsu with flames surging. Her anger amplified them, allowing her to make them more menacing.-

'Bang, bang, bang'

-The three teens soon threw their magical projectiles in sequence of the song.-

'Pull my Devil Trigger'

-Aristides was now seen wielding a pistol resembling a revolver with three barrels. It had three chambers to load 5 bullets. He fired the gun.-

'When the night ends, it's not over'

-Aristides was seen fighting several enemies with his sword, swinging them down. He kept dashing to the next, taking them down one by one.-

'Weave right through to get closer'

-Kunou and Issei were fighting their respective enemies. Both soon joined Aristides to take them down together.-

'Like a silver bullet piercing through'

-Aristides launched a silver arrow at the Devils. They were pierced and disappeared from the divine light.-

'I throw myself into you'

-Aristides, Kunou, and Issei took a breather as their enemies were slain. Asia arrived and launched at Issei, holding him tight. Kunou took advantage and playfully tackled on Aristides. She soon shared a kiss, which zoomed out.-

Everyone was within Aristides's place to rest from the actions they performed. Vergil kept his promise to guide them out of Hell. It was a celebration for everyone. However, the people of Gaia began feeling slightly worried for their home. Aristides had to say goodbye to Cloud and AVALANCHE since they were returning back to Gaia. The demi-god understood the implications for their departure to their home.

"We'll miss you guys. I know we celebrated days ago since that fight ended." Aristides said.

"I know... However, we need to get back so Gaia can recover from Sephiroth's plan." Vincent said.

"That I can agree..." Cloud followed.

"It will be lonely without you, Aristides. We will visit again to see how you and your friends are doing." Tifa said.

"I'll say. You guys were awesome." Barrett admitted.

"I remember how you were following Cloud's footsteps. Now you almost act like you're a clone of him. You have come a long way, kid." Cid said.

"My condolences for what happened to you all. I may not have been in this world before, but I wished we could see more of it." Nanaki said.

"I'll say. It's just like ours, but filled with supernatural stuff." Cait Sith said.

"Well, it's time to go back. Don't worry, they'll come back to visit one day." Son Wukong reassured.

"Gaia needs their warriors to be ready. I understand, but saying goodbye is not the right thing. We will meet again, AVALANCHE, I promise." Aristides said.

AVALANCHE left with the monkey yōkai to head back to their home. This left the three teens to relax after the events that happened.

"Hard to believe it has been a few weeks since I met you guys. I could honestly say it was a surprise." Issei said with surprise.

"Well, not that I don't mind the sudden passage of time, I think we all deserve a break. How about we head to Kyoto? We should relay the news to Yasaka-sama." Aristides said.

"I think it's a good idea. I wanted to head back home after everything we had to go through." Kunou said.

"I'm content in visiting Kyoto. It would be a time of peace for us to at least visit the landmark of Japan itself." Issei said.

Aristides smiled in response. He gave a hearty chuckle.

"Words were never spoken, Issei. Let's head out to Kyoto for the weekend." Aristides said.

"Okay. I'll let my parents know first hand before I leave. I'm thankful enough that Asia also has a spare room to live in my place thanks to your help, Aristides." Issei said.

Issei soon left the house. Aristides and Kunou were now alone in the house. The kitsune girl soon got close at the demi-god before suddenly kissing him for a long period.

"Aristides-kun... I wanted to do this." Kunou said.

"Whoa there, Kunou-chan. Don't go too far." Aristides warned.

"I know. I just wanted to get close to you. I miss kissing you like that." Kunou giggled.

Aristides was blushing red from how close Kunou was. He could feel her physically touching his body. However, their romantic moment was suddenly interrupted by a familiar Nekomata, whom pounced on them.

"Nya. Missed me?" The Nekomata said.

"Kuroka! It's been a while since we last chatted." Aristides said.

"Thank you for avenging the Nekomata. You too as well, Kunou. The survivors, me included, can now live in peace." Kuroka said with a jovial tone.

"Happy to hear that, Kuroka. Now I don't want to be the bearer of bad news, but I think my fiancé seems to be angered... I don't want you both to hurt each other." Aristides nervously spoke.

Kuroka stuck her tongue out in a playful manner. She soon got off of the couple.

"For a demi-god, you were amazing. I saw how the battle was, nya. Is it because of your feelings?" Kuroka asked, playfully licking Aristides on his right cheek.

Kunou had a jealous look on her face. She suddenly went to Aristides and gently bit his left arm.

"Hey. Don't start marking me like I'm a fancy territory." Aristides comically spoke.

Kuroka merely placed her fingers on her tongue. She seemed to be surprised, but had a thinking expression.

"You combined several sources of power, even if it was temporarily. You have Senjutsu of the kitsune and the essence of the Red Dragon Emperor. Alas, I can tell you're a virgin, nya." Kuroka playfully spoke.

"Sorry if I'm one..." Aristides said sarcastically with a poker face.

"Now that my kind are safe, why don't we start having kittens?" Kuroka asked with a blush.

Aristides had turned crimson, realizing what he heard.

"I'm too young to be a father... I haven't even dealt with the challenges of adulthood yet!" Aristides spoke out loud.

"I want to help repopulate the Nekomata race with your power, Aristides-kyun. Your actions made me fall in love with you, nya." Kuroka said, showing a sad expression that would weaken anyone watching.

Kuroka's expression affected Aristides, making him reluctant to resist. This made Kunou fall into heat in response.

'No...! It's too sudden for me to be in heat!' She thought.

(Play Final Fantasy VII OST - Great Warrior)

Aristides saw both girls having a blush on their faces. Both were breathing heavily. He calmed himself to talk reasonably with them.

"I'm content that you both love me. I won't mind having a future family with you all. However, I don't want to suddenly do so. I'm still young and I haven't finished college, let alone high school... I need some time so I can mature and be a reasonable parent. I don't want you both to conceive while my mind is still naive, especially if it's only for reviving a near extinct being. I want our children to be given love from a reasonable adult than a naive person." Aristides explained.

Both girls heard the explanation and were touched by his words. This allowed them to regain their cognitive thought.

"This is why we can't resist you, Aristides-kyun." Kuroka said.

"You are always watching over us, making sure that we need to be mature like an adult. That part of you and your patience is something I want our kids to inherit from you when we become more adult." Kunou said.

Both girls had their heads looking down. They suddenly showed their faces, now stained with tears. Despite that, they were smiling.

"We love you, Aristides. Don't change too much from how you are." Kunou and Kuroka said together.

Aristides held them close in a group hug. He had a content expression on his face, loving the two girls with him.

"I love you two as well." He said.

Aristides soon began emitting a soft gold glow of light. The light was so warm and comfy, Kuroka and Kunou held him close, embracing the light and the demi-god.

'It's so warm and beautiful.' Kuroka thought.

'I want to feel this light for as long as I can... It feels so pure and warming.' Kunou thought.

Unknown to everyone, a hidden power within Aristides was slowly awakening. Though none of them were aware of what will happen.

(Great Warrior OST ends here)

The weekend finally came. It was currently the first days of May. Back in the house, Aristides and Kunou had their backpacks with them.

"Any idea where Kuroka went to?" Aristides asked.

"She said she'll be expecting us to come to Kyoto." Kunou answered.

"Seems like she overheard the planned trip. Nevertheless, we will expect the Nekomata race to suddenly flock at us. Either way, it's to be expected since we saved them." Aristides said.

"That I'll have to agree. We all did our part in avenging them, not to mention teach the Devils a lesson they'll never forget." Kunou agreed.

Aristides laughed in response. Soon, Issei came by.

"Hey guys!" Issei said.

"Right on time, Issei." Aristides said.

"Have you told your parents about the trip?" Kunou asked.

"Yes. They allowed it. Also, Asia will be coming with us." Issei confirmed, showing Asia near him.

"Okay then. We won't use the human way to get there. We'll arrive at the Imperial Palace to see Yasaka first before we have a relaxing tour across Kyoto." Aristides said.

"I understand. Plus, I want to provide my part in effort with Ddraig. I know that I have been in contact with the Gods of Olympus, but I have yet to see the 'real' Kyoto." Issei said.

"It's okay. I told Yasaka-sama about you and Asia. She will welcome all of us in open arms." Aristides reassured.

He placed a slab with the Green letter sigma (Σ), which opened a Hyperion Gate to Kyoto.

"We're not taking the train if that helps. This trip will make it easy for us since it's time saving." Aristides remarked.

The three teens went through the Hyperion Gate.

They all arrived in Kyoto. Much to their expectations, the area was peaceful.

"So this is how Kyoto really is." Issei said.

"Well, we arrived at the foot of the hill leading to the Imperial Palace. Figured we should honor the yōkai faction of our report." Aristides said.

They soon encountered the Imperial Guards. Issei was nervous in seeing them.

"Halt! Who goes there!?" One of the guards questioned.

"At ease, gentlemen. Miyamoto Aristides reporting to Yasaka-sama in regards of a mission with her daughter. Also, I informed her ahead of time about the Red Dragon Emperor and a nun of the Angel Faction." Aristides spoke.

The guards lowered their weapons in response and bowed.

"Forgive us, Aristides-dono, Kunou-sama." The guard said.

"Do not feel shameful. You were doing your job. Anyway, I have two guests whom are of great importance. Yasaka-sama has allowed them to come inside." Aristides said.

"What additional details do we need to know of them?" The guard questioned, looking at Issei.

"He's the Red Dragon Emperor." Aristides responded, pointing to Issei

The guard was in surprise. Nevertheless, he welcomed Issei and Asia in the Imperial grounds.

(Play Final Fantasy X OST - To Zenarkand)

The long walk up the hill was somewhat exhausting to everyone. Yet, they all felt refreshed from the serenity of the Imperial Gardens.

"I was fatigued seconds ago, but now my stamina is recovering... Is this how it is when nature is in harmony?" Issei asked in surprise.

"Yes. The Yōkai faction and nature are just as connected as one might think. In fact, everything you see of Kyoto is thanks to the yōkai who live here. The humans may have known this years ago, but since we all got into hiding, no one has known their existence except those who live in Kyoto." Aristides explained.

"It feels so peaceful. Kami-sama, I'm thankful for finding such kind hearted friends." Asia said in a grateful prayer.

Issei marveled the sight, already liking how peaceful it is. Ddraig also like the serene atmosphere.

[I must admit. It's a peaceful place calming enough for your mind and spirit, Partner.] Ddraig said.

"I couldn't agree more, Ddraig." Issei said.

The three teens soon moved to the Imperial Palace. Aristides and Kunou looked at the area, recalling childhood memories. Both gave a nostalgic smile, watching the garden they played on.

"It's good to be back here, even if it is short." Aristides said.

"I know. This place has many memories. I don't want them to fade." Kunou said.

Issei looked confused for a moment, noting they were lost in thought. The couple shook their heads in response.

"Sorry, just thinking about childhood memories." Aristides apologized.

"That's fine. You two must have great memories here." Asia said.

"It's okay. Let's talk with Yasaka so we can relax in Kyoto." Issei said.

Aristides and Kunou nodded in response. They went inside the Imperial Palace to talk with Yasaka.

Yasaka was monitoring the leyline in Kyoto. Within the spot she was looking, the Lifestream was flowing with an emerald color. Upon hearing the doors open, she turned to see two familiar faces.

"Kunou! Aristides!" Yasaka said, overjoyed.

"Kaa-san!" Kunou said in excitement.

"Yasaka-sama." Aristides bowed.

"Yasaka-dono." Issei followed.

Yasaka had a pouting expression before hugging Aristides with her daughter. Despite requesting him to call her 'kaa-san, the demi-god always spoke to her formally.

"It's fine if you call me 'kaa-chan', Aristides." Yasaka said.

"I know, but I rather address you formally." Aristides said.

"Anyway, I've heard of your actions among the Yōkai faction whom spied on the Devils. I'm thankful that the Nekomata race will be safe in Kyoto, away from them." Yasaka said.

"It was fitting to make the Devil faction reprimand their actions for something illogical on their part. If a Nekomata had to defend her sibling from them without being forced to be a slave, then who are we to judge?" Aristides asked rhetorically.

"I couldn't agree more. In any case, I need to have a word with your friends, Aristides. You can take Kunou with you while I talk with Issei and Asia." Yasaka said.

Issei and Asia remained inside with Yasaka while the demi-god and kitsune girl left outside.

"Issei. I would like you to hear a proposition from me as leader of the Yōkai faction." Yasaka spoke seriously.

"I'm awaiting for your explanation." Issei said.

"I would like you and Asia to join as a member of the Yōkai faction. My son-in-law, Aristides, even my own daughter, Kunou, has spoken highly of you. Will you accept to be with us?" Yasaka asked.

"If so, will I still remain as a free citizen with my loved ones and as a human?" Issei asked.

"Yes, you will be able to visit them. You have your freedom, but the only thing I ask is this. If you receive a letter from me, you'll have to come to Kyoto to be briefed on a mission. I want you to be alongside Aristides as well." Yasaka said.

"I'd be happy to work alongside him. There's one thing I need to request though." Issei said.

"Feel free to ask, Issei." Yasaka said.

"Is it possible for you to provide asylum to Asia, whom was exiled from the church?" Issei asked.

"That can be arranged. However, I'll need to contact the leader of the Angel faction to ensure their blessing. I cannot simply provide asylum to a person aware of the supernatural." Yasaka said.

"Fair enough. Can you also do the same in the event my parents decide to love to Kyoto? It's all I ask from here." Issei requested.

"Yes, they can be provided a new home should they decide to move in." Yasaka agreed.

"I accept your request, Yasaka-dono. In the name of the true Red Dragon Emperor, Ddraig, I, as the current wielder of the dragon's power, shall abide and assist the Yōkai faction." Issei said.

"Happy to hear that, Issei. You can go and be with your friends now." Yasaka smiled.

[Partner, you think it was okay to trust the leader of the Yōkai faction to protect the people you care for?] Ddraig asked.

"I want nothing more than to protect them, Ddraig. However, the future battles will be dangerous and they may get caught in the crossfire. I don't want to lose the people I care for. I'm willing to give my life for them, even if it means becoming a dragon." Issei said.

[Interesting. Are you truly prepared for what your words have transpired?] Ddraig asked.

"It's all that I have to protect my loved ones." Issei said.

[That drive from your spirit... I could honestly say that it would be a driving force for you to grow strong and become the strongest Red Dragon Emperor of this generation. Don't forget that drive, Partner. Remember the words you shared to me.] Ddraig pridefully spoke.

"If it comes to it, I will become strong." Issei said.

Aristides and Kunou were overlooking the atrium gardens. The cherry blossoms fluttered in the air.

"I'm glad we got here to our home." Kunou said, leaning on Aristides.

"I agree. This place holds a lot of memories to us." Aristides said.

(To Zenarkand OST ends here)

Both held their bodies close to each other. While they enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, Kuroka suddenly showed up.

"Nya, I'm glad to see you guys here." Kuroka said.

"Kuroka, where did you disappear to?" Aristides asked in surprise.

"Oh, that easy. My kind also specializes in senjutsu. We can travel across space as we please, to the point we travel between the existence of one world to another." Kuroka explained.

"That would explain how you were able to disappear just like that." Aristides realized.

"It's pretty handy, nya. Even comes with a funny trick to prank others." Kuroka laughed.

"In any case, we're here to enjoy a nice break from our recent battle. Seeing that we avenged the Nekomata race, Kyoto should be a safe haven for the survivors." Kunou pointed out.

"Yep. I also want to join the relaxing as well, nya." Kuroka gleefully spoke.

Issei arrived and noticed Kuroka. Much to his surprise, he saw the cat features of the girl. Asia noticed as well, looking surprised as well.

"Aristides, Kunou... This girl is a Yōkai, isn't she?" Issei questioned.

"Nya, this is the first time you saw my kind?" Kuroka asked to Issei.

"Well, you could say that. I'm Issei, current Red Dragon Emperor." Issei introduced.

"You're the Red Dragon Emperor? Wow, I didn't know you had a strong friend, Aristides-kyun." Kuroka said.

"What can I say? He's almost like a brother to me." Aristides said.

"Nyahahahaha. I like that kind of spirit from you Aristides-kyun. I prefer you since you wanted to help my kind." Kuroka said.

Asia observed how Kuroka and Kunou were interacting with Aristides whom had a hearty laugh.

"They look so calm with each other. If only I knew Issei when I was younger..." Asia mumbled.

Issei didn't hear clearly what Asia said. He looked at her, causing Asia to blush. The boy merely tilted his head in confusion as Asia looked away, embarrassed. She didn't know whether Issei heard her or not.

'I wonder what Asia was saying just earlier...' Issei thought.

Aristides kept his laughter as Kunou sighed, knowing how playful the Nekomata was.

"In any case, let's have a tour around Kyoto. Time we showed Issei our home." The demi-god suggested.

(Play Final Fantasy VII OST - Main Theme)

The quintet walked to several historical sites around the city. Most notably, the Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji Temples of Kyoto. Currently, they were now at the Kiyomizu-dera temple, enjoying the view.

"Wow... How beautiful." Asia said.

"This view is one of the best in Kyoto. Many tourists from abroad and the people of Japan often come here to take majestic pictures of the view. Even as the seasons change, the charm becomes different. A perfect spot to look at." Aristides explained.

"It does feel serene here. Are there any places like this around Kyoto?" Issei asked in wonder.

"There are such places here. We only saw the nearest landmarks. In fact, the place were Kunou and I live in is not the Imperial Palace, but the Yasaka Temple. Yasaka does the paperwork for the most part in the Imperial Palace, not to mention stabilize the leyline of the Lifestream." Aristides explained.

"It's amazing." Asia said in amazement.

"Wow, and I was in that same place... I'd say everything is becoming fun for me." Issei smiled.

"Well then, since we got several photos of the landscape, how about we head off to Gion to get some lunch?" Kunou suggested.

Everyone agreed and left the temple.

Within Gion, the quintet was eating their meal leisurely. All had different dishes, save for Kuroka, whom had sushi.

"This food tastes really good." Issei said.

"I never had meals like this from the church. Japan really is nice." Asia said with a cute smile.

"I know. They use special seasonings to make the taste unique here. I wouldn't give that up for anything." Aristides chuckled.

Kunou and Kuroka giggled as they heard the boys talking.

"Those two act like brothers alright, nya. If anything, they would help each other in such moments." Kuroka commented.

"I believe so." Kunou agreed.

The five teens ate their meals in peace as they enjoyed the day in Kyoto. Asia, noticing how Kuroka and Kunou were physically close to the demi-god, decided to take the risk and moved closer to Issei. The boy felt Asia's hand on his right arm, causing him to have rosy cheeks. He gently held Asia's hand.

(Main theme OST ends here)

(Play Final Fantasy VII OST - Flowers Blooming In The Church)

The quintet were now in a bamboo forest that was a haven for monkeys.

"Arashiyama. Otherwise known as the Bamboo forest. This place is very relaxing to walk into." Aristides said.

The very air within Arashiyama was so clean, not even Ddraig could resist how serene it felt. Bahamut from the Summon Materia felt compelled to have a look around the area.

[This place feels so peaceful... I never thought that the world of humans can be this peaceful to experience.] Ddraig said.

The voice from Ddraig briefly surprised Asia. Issei reassured the nun that it was his Sacred Gear.

"That's the presence of the bamboo plants all over the area. It is said that this forest of bamboo can help with one's body and soul. This kind of activity called 'forest bathing' is what we are doing by walking within this bamboo forest." Aristides explained.

"Aren't we smart on medicine, nya?" Kuroka asked playfully.

"That's one of the authorities of my demi-god powers. My father passed this down to me." Aristides said, scratching his head.

"I remember that you told me you are the Son of Apollo. Apollo is known for music, medicine, light, archery, poetry, disease, even knowledge." Issei recounted.

"Yep. I inherited knowledge, medicine, archery, light, disease and knowledge." Aristides confirmed.

"What do those authorities do?" Asia asked curiously.

"Light is the main elemental I use in my abilities. Knowledge is the passive ability to understand almost everything from watching any actions to the actions performed. Archery is self-explanatory, seeing that I can use bows and arrows. Disease and medicine are more interlinked. I essentially have knowledge of illnesses and conditions, whether natural or supernatural and can concoct special remedies. Makes it useful to help others." Aristides explained.

"I often see you wield a sword with such expertise. Is that an authority you have of your own?" Kunou asked.

"I did had innate knowledge of swords. Whenever I hold one, I could instantly use it as though I trained myself in it." Aristides answered.

While walking through Arashiyama, several monkeys were seen roaming within. They didn't mind the quartet of being within their presence.

"Looks like we're nearing the Iwatayama Monkey Park. The monkeys there are hand-fed, just like the other places that are a natural sanctuary to animals, like Neko-jima, Usagi-jima, and even Kitsune Village." Kunou explained.

"Wow, that's pretty nice to see them." Issei said.

"I know. Just keep in mind that though these places are mainly inhabited by the respective creatures, the members of the Yōkai faction monitor them to ensure the nature preserves are left untouched." Aristides said.

(Flowers blooming in the Church OST ends here)

The quartet made their way to a local hotel. It was run by a tengu Yōkai, whom recognized them immediately.

"Ah, Lady Kunou and Lord Aristides. Welcome to the Crow's Inn." The tengu said.

"At ease, sir. We would like to stay over for the night. How much is it?" Aristides asked.

"For four people, the price is 4200." The tengu said.

Aristides didn't waste any time to pay the tengu. Though he knows every Yōkai recognize him as the fiancé to Yasaka's daughter, he treated everyone as though he was in an equal social standing. The Yōkai members of the factions had positive outlooks of the demi-god for his actions helped them in times of need.

'He could become the guardian of Kyoto one day.' Kunou thought, smiling.

The quartet was provided with several yukata. Aristides's was a light blue color. Issei's was a red color. Kunou's was a gold yellow color. Kuroka had her yukata in black.

"So, now that we're here for the night, how about we relax ourselves to onsen?" Aristides asked.

"I couldn't say it better myself. After all this walking for hours at the popular sites in Kyoto, I could use a bath to relax." Issei said.

"Me too." Kunou and Kuroka followed.

"It's decided then. Let's go take a bath in the onsen." Aristides said.

The onsen was an open air bath. It was divided by a brick wall to separate the males and females. Currently, Issei and Aristides were relaxing in the hot spring.

"This is Heaven..." Issei said.

"Elysium..." Aristides muttered with a content expression.

Both felt their body's relax as the hot spring soothed their bodies.

"So Aristides. What will you do when there will be a peaceful time?" Issei asked.

"I would remain in Kyoto, guarding it from any threats. It's the same thing for Olympus too. They're my living family since my mother passed away." Aristides said with a solemn expression.

"Oh... I remember when you explained to me about your hatred against them. Now I can see why." Issei sympathized.

"Yeah... I still need to hunt down the group responsible. From what I heard before taking the Phenex family down, there was a group called the Old Satan Faction. They were the ones responsible, now that I have a clear target to find." Aristides continued.

"The Old Satan Faction... Though once you destroy them, what will you do? Will you continue hunting down Devils?" Issei asked in concern.

"I will have to establish stricter rules in their lifestyle, just so I can keep an eye out for them. Since the last battle inadvertently revealed some disturbing details, the social system of the Devils is at the brink of collapsing into a civil war." Aristides explained.

"That would explain why you left that girl alive?" Issei asked.

No. I didn't spare her through my whim. It's a message to convey that Devils are not what they perceive to be. All the more for me to have some spoils of war." Aristides said.

"I see... Now that message has been sent, every member of the Devil Faction will rethink of their actions." Issei confirmed.

"Indeed. Anyway, let's get out of the bath. We lasted up to 30 minutes in here. I'm starting to feel dizzy." Aristides said, feeling slightly disoriented.

Issei agreed as he too felt unbalanced. Ddraig also felt the effects from the hot spring. He made a slurring sound from his speech as the hot water made everyone light headed.

Issei and Aristides were desperately holding consciousness. They couldn't stand still due to overstaying in the hot spring.

"It was relaxing for us, but we should be careful in how long we stay in an onsen." Aristides said.

"I agree. Let's get something to keep us awake before the effects make us fall asleep." Issei suggested.

Aristides agreed and followed Issei to a nearby refrigerator. They found containers of drinkable yogurt. Both gulped down their respective flavors. Aristides had peach while Issei had strawberry. Both gave a satisfied sigh, now feeling alert.

"That's better." Issei said.

"Totally. We should head to the room and wait for the girls." Aristides said, fanning himself.

Soon the girls arrived. They were wearing their kimonos. Asia seemed somewhat meek, due to her first time wearing one. She was fiddling with the ribbon, making sure it wasn't loose.

"Issei-san..." She said in a cute, tearful manner.

Issei couldn't help but be enamored as Asia showed a rather cute gesture. Knowing how shy she was due to lack of contact from people, he went up to her and hugged her.

"Issei-san?" She asked.

"It's okay, Asia. This is what the people of Japan wear after bathing in the hot spring." Issei reassured.

Aristides, Kunou, and Kuroka cooed at the scene, liking how Asia is showing more trust to Issei. This also causes the two yōkai girls to flirt with the demi-god.

"Uh, Kunou... Kuroka... What are you doing?" He asked, noting they were whispering.

They both gave a cute look, much to the demi-god's confusion. Soon, they clamped on to one of his arms. Kuroka had his left while Kunou on his right. Both were pressing themselves on him. Aristides blushed in response.

"Come on, you two. Both of you are cute the way you are. There's nothing to prove anything else for that." Aristides said.

He gently placed his left hand on Kuroka's head, whom released his arm. Soon, she began to make a soft, purring noise. It made Kuroka blush, remembering the sensation. Kunou also followed, though her purring sounded more intimate. She even started to lay down on his lap.

"Oh my... I guess we all have our time to relax." Aristides said, chuckling.

Ending 2: I'll be your home - Rin Oikawa

-Aristides was seen alone, outside of his home in Kyoto. He was overlooking the sky with a depressed expression. There was a small bottle of Greek wine. Near the bottle, a photo of his mother was shown, whom had a smile.-

'Don't look back'

-The demi-god's thoughts were wandering about, leaving him in a constant reminder.-

'Don't regret'

-Aristides slowly closed his eyes as though a tear would threaten to spill from them. The view moves to his lips, which showed them thinning due to suppressing his emotions.-

'Time's falling out of these hands'

-He visibly let his arms out into the cold, night air. It seemed as though he was embracing something, but he couldn't find anyone around him. Without him knowing it, he felt a soft embrace from his mother's spirit.

'I'll let you leave me'

-Aristides felt the embrace and opened his eyes, only to find nothing. He soon shed a single tear, not wanting to openly express his sorrow.-

'Go on,

-He soon felt a gentle touch on his back as he kept his face looking down on the ground.-

'You know Home is always inside your soul'

-Without knowing it, his mother was holding him from behind to soothe his sadness. He was desperately holding back.-

'Wherever you go'

-Kunou was nearby, whom noticed Aristides looking as though he was crying. She went up to him on concern.-

'Whatever you see'

-Kuroka felt the demi-god's emotions. She also walked up to him, wanting to help him with his depression.-

'I'll be the place'

-The two girls gave a warm embrace, surprising Aristides. He couldn't hold it anymore as a stream of tears came as he silently cried.-

'And I'll be your home.'

-The two girls held their embrace. Issei was with Asia, whom also held him to comfort his soul. Both showed a heartbreaking expression as they looked at their friend, whom was suffering.-

Note: This begins the second arc of the story.