They set out again.
It's overcast, cold. But there is no sign of rain, and they wander the countryside, lighthearted and laughing despite their mission.
Until they come across a stranger.
Heaviness surrounds this figure, the shroud of white clothing saying more than the grave marker where she keeps vigil, and Kagome feels her stomach drop, an ache settling deep in the back of her throat.
Still, she approaches.
"Are you alright?" she whispers.
Lavender eyes turn to her, the razor-thin edge of slitted pupils confirming what Kagome already knew.
"My mate…"
And when the youkai breaks, Kagome does too.