Chapter 70: Seriously? Just like that, we're retreating?

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Cao Cao's eyes flicked between Issei and the members of his faction. His authoritative voice cut through the air, "Very well, Issei Hyoudou. You've pushed us into a corner, and we'll retreat for now. But mark my words, should you betray our secrets, Crom Cruach will ensure you face dire consequences."

Siegfried's expression became one of incredulity. "Seriously? Just like that, we're retreating?"

Cao Cao's gaze hardened. "Temporarily. Free the Youkai." He then turned to Issei, his voice dripping with menace, "This is a temporary setback. Interfering in our affairs won't end well for you."

Issei responded with unabashed disdain, "Do yourselves a favor and disappear."

In the aftermath, Yasaka began to stir, her eyes gaining focus as whatever enchantment that bound her faded. Nearby, Kunou too seemed to be rousing, although both appeared groggy and disoriented from their ordeal.

Cao Cao shot one last glare towards Issei. "This isn't the last you've seen of us, Issei Hyoudou. Remember this moment." With that final declaration, he and the rest of the humans vanished from the scene.

With the departure of the Hero Faction, only the figure of Crom Cruach lingered. He sauntered up to Issei, an imposing presence, stopping inches from his face. His voice was deep, tinged with anticipation, "I'm genuinely looking forward to the day we cross paths in combat... Red Dragon Emperor."

Issei's eyes widened in shock, pupils dilating. "What the hell are you on about?"

Crom Cruach grinned, revealing a hint of mischief, "Your little boost trick during our race on the motorcycles? That was a low move. Not very sportsmanlike, but hey, winning is all that matters in the end, isn't it? I'm not one to judge." His eyes narrowed, "Rest assured, your little secret is safe with me. Everyone's allowed to have a trump card. But know this: our score is far from settled." With a final glance filled with determination, he turned on his heel and disappeared into the distance.

Issei's attention was immediately redirected towards Yasaka and Kunou. Even though the binding spell on them had been broken, a veil of confusion clouded their eyes. His heart raced - he was grateful they hadn't caught the last bit of his exchange with Crom Cruach. The implications of what the dragon had hinted at were too large for them to know right now.

Drawing closer, Issei gently reached out, touching the shoulder of both the mother and daughter. "Hey," he called softly, "are you guys okay?"

Blinking in response, Yasaka's voice came out shaky, "Where... Where are we? What just happened?"

Issei studied the two of them closely, struck by their resemblance. In his eyes, Yasaka seemed like a matured reflection of Kunou, each a mirror image of the other in terms of their delicate features and graceful demeanor.

Stirring from her daze, Kunou's voice wavered as she spoke, "I-Issei-kun?" She blinked, her eyes darting around as she tried to grasp the situation, memories flooding back.

Gently, Issei reassured her, "I promised I'd find your mother, didn't I? Those men who took her away won't trouble you anymore."

Upon recognizing her mother beside her, a blend of relief and joy shone in Kunou's eyes. "M-mama?!" she exclaimed, voice thick with emotion.

As clarity returned to Yasaka's gaze, she regarded Issei with a mixture of disbelief and gratitude. "You...a dragon? You came to our rescue?"

Nodding, Issei responded, "Yes, that's what happened."

Piecing her memories together, Yasaka frowned, "The last clear memory I have involves some peculiar humans...then everything becomes foggy." She shook her head, trying to dispel the fog of confusion.

Issei silently weighed the situation. 'She seems to have a gap in her memories about the whole ordeal. Maybe it's for the best. Given her nature, she might inadvertently spill the beans about the Khaos Brigade. And the last thing I want is to inadvertently ignite the flames of a massive conflict,' he pondered internally.

"I was only doing what I thought was right; I didn't really know who those men were. I just wanted to help reunite Kunou with you," Issei elaborated, trying to downplay his role.

Gazing at him with profound gratitude, Yasaka said, "You've done more than you realize. I am deeply in your debt."

Issei brushed off the weight of her words, "It's alright. What matters is you two are safe now."

Kunou's face lit up with a mixture of relief and happiness. Tears streaming down her face, she exclaimed, "I-Issei-kun! I can't thank you enough for bringing my mother back!" She lunged forward, wrapping her arms around him in a heartfelt embrace, murmuring, "You truly are amazing."

Issei, slightly taken aback by the sudden display of emotion, gently patted her back. After a brief moment, he gently disentangled himself, "Okay, okay. I'm glad I could help. Now, you both should rest and recover. I have to get going."

Yasaka, still processing the evening's events, looked surprised. "After all you've done, you're simply going to leave? You deserve more than just a 'thank you.' At least stay a little longer, allow us to show our appreciation."

Issei, mounting his motorcycle, shook his head, "I have commitments—school and people depending on me. But I appreciate the offer. Maybe some other time."

As he started his motorcycle, Yasaka gave him a respectful bow, her smile genuine, "Whenever you're in Kyoto, know that our door is always open. Please, let us properly thank you in the future."

Issei waved off her gratitude, revving his motorcycle's engine, "Don't worry about it." With a final nod, he sped off into the night, leaving behind two grateful souls.