Tetsusaia stirred. "I heard every word the woman said, and I deny none of it. It is true, Inuyasha. I was there when you and Sesshomeru entered the sacred burial place of your father. I saw your battle. But because of the years of Tetsusaiga not being used, I had grown weak and tired. I could not stop either of you from taking it.
"But when I saw how you handled the Tetsusaiga, I knew you were destined to wield it. I allowed you to have it, and have followed it, and you, since then. I am never to leave the sword, Inuyasha. I am its guardian." She spoke as if it were the final say in all things.
The group turned to find Uranomi, but the old, crippled priestess was gone. She must have left while Tetsusaia spoke.
"I suppose all that is left is for me to give you back the sheath. So here, Inuyasha. Use it well." She dropped it into his hand.
"Uh…thanks." He placed the Tetsusaiga in its place and looked up at her again.
The girl sighed. "I also suppose it is time for me to follow it again in the shadows. Farewell, Inuyasha. Wield the Tetsusaiga well, for I shall always be there for it…and you." Tetsusaia stood on the branch, and then was gone in a wisp of smoke. A whisper went through the trees, and the group saw no more of the mystic guardian.