Disclaimer: All characters from the series Inuyasha that appear in this fanfic rightfully belong to Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own anything regarding their creation; I have Rumiko Takahashi to thank for that.

Author's Notes: I'm back everyone and this is the first update in the year 2020. I can't believe that the story has passed its 5th anniversary. Come to think of it, that makes it 6 chapters on average per year. Ouch, I am slow with the updates. So thank you so much for being patient and sticking with me despite all this. 2020 hasn't been a fantastic start and I hope you'll all stay safe and healthy.

A big thank you to bubu-chibi-chan, who continued to be the betareader for this story despite the busy schedule. Also, a thank you to fabelliot, electricangel12, 8579, Guest, Ngoc Do, and Guest for your lovely reviews.

fabelliot: Sesshomaru is always hard to describe with words; he's just that amazing, isn't he? Honestly, I wasn't too confident with the battle scene so it makes me very happy to hear that you liked the chapter enough to consider it a gift. Thank you for your continuous support!

electricangel12: I can feel your excitement and interest in this story radiate from your last review. So I'm very sorry that this took so long. Forgive me. And yes, Sesshomaru is being protective of Kikyo without knowing how to put his feelings into it. Unlike Inuyasha — who unfortunately has a track record of barking that he'll protect the people he cares about rather than take action — Sesshomaru lets his action speak for him. Actually, both Sesshomaru and Kikyo are the types of individuals who don't bother speaking their intentions out loud. It's what led many people to misunderstand them at times. As difficult as it can be tackling Sesshy's POV, I'm glad that I'm able to dig into his thoughts and show everyone what he doesn't tell.

8579: Yep, Sesshy has Kikyo in his arms and he isn't planning on letting go so soon. Thus far, we're seeing that Sesshomaru is indeed getting closer to Kikyo, even going as far as risking himself to save her and keeping the words he made to her. Okay, so the latter he'll do regardless because of his honor but the former is what really shows he cares, even if he wouldn't openly admit it. ;) As for Kikyo, it's left a bit more ambiguous for now since it's Sesshy's POV but I promise you'll get her opinions on the matter later.

Guest: The lack of reviews can get a little disheartening at times but don't worry, I won't be stopping the story because of that. My love for SessKik just won't allow it! I appreciate that you took the time and effort to encourage me. Thank you.

Ngoc Do: Hi there! It's awesome seeing a new face and I'm glad that you're enjoying this story.

Guest: Don't worry, this story isn't discontinued. Please let his update be the proof of that. I'm pleased to meet a SessxKik fan who enjoys their dynamics. Their characters are really interesting. They're the same and yet so different at the same time so it makes imaging their interactions fun. I just wished the canon could have more of the two together; that would've been amazing.

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(This chapter was beta-read by bubu-chibi-chan).

Chapter 30-Kako-hen: Farewell for Tomorrow's Sake

If we become memories

Your nearby warmth is no longer granted to me

So a pained sigh escapes my lips abruptly

May it soar far away and reach you

-Sayonara ha Ashita no Tame ni! (Song played in episode 124)

Sesshomaru did not need to be apt at healing to know that the last fragments of life that held Utsugi's artificial body together were diminishing fast. The wooden mask on the hitogata's face had crumbled into pieces, revealing the handsome but pale features of a man around his early twenties. His dark orbs gazed at the sky aimlessly, his shoulder-length black hair spilling out on the ground.

As the erratic rush of adrenaline faded, he lowered Rin onto the ground slowly in favor of taking the unconscious saint in both arms. The little girl gave a fearful look at the hitogata before hiding behind the daiyoukai's leg, clutching onto his white hakama as if she was holding on for her dear life. It was apparent that Utsugi was dying. But even so, that did nothing to dissipate the terror that had already carved its way into the girl's heart.

The child's hands, stained with dirt and ashes from the last skirmish, marred Sesshomaru's clothing. But rather than kicking her away — as he would've done to those who performed the same action — he condoned her behavior as he regarded Utsugi with a tilt of his chin. Contrary to what his outward appearance suggested, he held no contempt toward the hitogata. His goal might've been foolish but the enormous power he possessed was not to be dismissed.

The ability to summon forth the shikigami of the four elements was one bequeathed by the gods. In one version of the books that revealed the beginning of the world, it was said that the Great Continent was able to renew its life source as a courtesy of Goddess Heiwa. She was the one who endowed the power of creation into the kokuho, in the form of two shikigami that ruled over the elements of water and light. Shortly after her departure, an evil god sought to undo her blessings for his pleasure and embedded the power of destruction — the two shikigami that governed the fire and wind elements — into the four artifacts.

At one point in history, a human had gathered the four artifacts in one place. Although the continent was not united as he was not the chosen ruler, his blood had been drastically changed so that the firstborn of his descendants would be able to call forth the powers of the shikigami.

Henceforth, there existed a rare bloodline among humans. One capable of unleashing a power that could easily create and destroy the lands.

But at this moment, the one who had inherited the great power lay several feet away, defeated and dying. All the while, Sesshomaru stood proud and strong, his magnificent golden eyes framed by a curtain of silver that gently swayed side to side.

The positions of the two warriors painted a glaring contrast. Reminded that his victory hadn't been premeditated and was due to an unexpected factor, Sesshomaru's left limb subconsciously twitched from where it was at the bends of the saint's knees, as if trying to scavenge the immeasurable mass of power that had coursed through moments ago.

The key to its manifestation was of curious contemplations, though he would have plenty of time for that later. At present, he supposed he ought to pay some respect to his formidable foe; it was not every day that he would get to fight a worthy opponent. So he waited without a sound as Kakuju and Utsugi shared their final words.

"Oh, Utsugi… you fool! You utter fool!" Kakuju was on her knees beside her lover, running a wrinkled hand down the back of his hand before cupping it. Two trails of tears ran down her face, an open display of the sorrow that was lurking in the eyes that were concealed by her gray bangs. "You… you raided villages, killed the adults, kidnapped the children, and stole their souls. You did all these immoral things so that you could become human. All of this for the selfish old fool who failed to understand your pain, who chased you away when you needed her the most…"

"Why are you blaming yourself, Kakuju? There's nothing wrong with being selfish. That is human nature. Even I can understand that much." The corner of Utsugi's lips curved into a humorless smile. "I feel no remorse for having taken the lives of all those humans. If it meant making my dream a reality, I would do that much and more. Every fiber of my cursed existence is stimulated by one pathetic wish. I want to become human. That way, I can stand next to you, to live our lives to the fullest and then die of old age together. I do not ask for forgiveness, Kakuju. Nor will I give one. Though my dream was extinguished, I can at least die knowing I have tried."

"Utsugi…" Kakuju could only let her tears fall, her mind torn apart by morals and love. She didn't say anything else, knowing any other words would either be hollow or hypocritical.

"The exceptional durability of this vessel is a reason you were able to withstand a direct confrontation with me. Yet, you are so willing to exchange it for one that is fragile and cumbersome. Why?" It hadn't been in his intention to interrupt at first, but what Utsugi had said struck a chord in Sesshomaru's brain and refused to be ignored. This man, who was gifted with immense power, was able to overcome the limitations of the human body as well. Many humans would consider it to be a no greater blessing from the gods. However, Utsugi loathed his existence, to the point that he had deemed it a curse.

Two dark pools slid over to the left to regard the pair of marvelous gold. Utsugi stared at the daiyoukai and the woman in his arms for a moment before finally turning his head back to the sky that was dyed red. "This sunset. What a beautiful view."

Had it not been for his well-honed self-control and the fact that he was not in his demonic form, then Sesshomaru would've bristled at the insolence. This dying hitogata actually had the gallantry to ignore him! But before his elegant eyebrows could express his disdain with a scowl, the subject of his developing annoyance spoke again.

"As beautiful as it is, the sunset will eventually fade to night. It is not eternal. Nothing is. One day, you too may come to comprehend my distraught, the apprehension of being left behind by the one you cherish. I merely wish to grow old with Kakuju together… that's the happiness, the salvation, I seek. Despite my effort, my plan went awry because of you, youkai." He gave a small mirthless chuckle. "I must say I did not anticipate your interference, nor did I account for your overwhelming strength."

"You underestimated me, and that alone is your greatest downfall."

"Every bit as arrogant as your status demands." The humorless smirk on the hitogata's pale face morphed into an exasperated one. "It's my loss nonetheless. And I am no sore loser, so a word of advice for the one who bested me. While gathering souls was an objective that stemmed from my deepest desire, my initial plan did not involve St. Hijiri."

At Utsugi's reveal, there was a sinister sensation creeping up from behind. Sesshomaru detected the familiar pair of eyes on them, though the measured gaze earlier had shifted to a glower brimming with frustration. Aware of the growing killing intent, the Inu prince threw a backward glare over his shoulder. His eyes narrowed into slits, and his golden irises shimmered like the daunting steel of a knife. Almost immediately, the spy's influence on the forest lessened.

With no indication that anything was amiss, Sesshomaru returned his sight to Utsugi, his chin angled in a way that suggested haughty contemplation. "Upon entering this forest, I sensed a stench of dark magic permeating the area. The same magic that I later discovered was the source controlling the lesser youkai. You had an associate that provided you with a small army to do your bidding, did you not? This very same vermin who had the intrepidity to attempt killing Hijiri with a borrowed sword."

"Yes, though it was mutual exploitation, I was more than willing and able to make her schemes a reality." The hitogata gave a soft cough. His words were becoming noticeably weaker, as if he was short on breath.

"Her?" asked Sesshomaru tonelessly. Rin's bare feet shuffled nervously against the floor due to the increasing tension. In reality, there was only the slightest fluctuation in his youki. But children were always more sensitive and he hadn't bothered masking his unspoken animosity.

"The kuro miko, Tsubaki… She was the one who suggested the raids, knowing that they would bring unrest between the west and the east."

"The bedlam was the perfect bait to lure out St. Hijiri," Kakuju supplied in realization, her voice croaky from the emotional strain.

"That is correct. She specifically told me that she cared not what I do but to merely bring her St. Hijiri's corpse after. And I would have kept my end of the bargain, once I have extracted her soul." Utsugi had just managed to wheeze out before he was consumed by a fit of coughing.

"Hmph, that is all I need to hear. Save your last breath for the old woman. I do not care about this kuro miko's grievance with Hijiri. Simply know that I will safeguard her for as long as her contract with my father remains valid. I shall consider all who dare to lay a finger on her an attempt to incur my unbridled wrath," the Inu prince proclaimed, discharging his demonic aura in crashing waves that were akin to the force of a tsunami. If there were any chance — however unlikely it was — that this Tsubaki was eavesdropping despite his initial warning, then the menace in his words should prompt immediate reconsideration.

Having said and done all he wanted to, Sesshomaru rotated his body to gaze at the setting sun. Whatever little time Utsugi had could now be spent wholeheartedly on Kakuju. If truth be told, the daiyoukai did not have the least interest in their relationship. Yet, somewhere deep in a reclusive part of his conscience, his mind decided that this gesture was appropriate for an opponent who he had deemed commendable.

The old woman and the hitogata traded a few words filled with affection and regrets. As the sun retreated to usher the arrival of night, Utsugi drew his last breath. A soft eerie blue light illuminated his body before it crumbled into speckles of dust that slipped through Kakuju's fingers.

The next few minutes were the sounds of rustling trees and the low whispers of the wind, with nature offering its condolence for the deceased hitogata. Kakuju's stifled sobs were the occasional noise that contributed to the requiem.

Tentative, Rin had been tempted to approach the old miko, but ultimately ended up standing still. Extreme adult reactions would make the girl wary. Perhaps that was the reason why she seemingly warmed up to the poker-faced Sesshomaru and St. Hijiri — whose face remained shrouded — in little to no time.

Tears continued to fall but eventually, Kakuju reached for her eyes with her sleeve. Sesshomaru noticed something flat and round in her hand when she dabbed the fabric on her face. The object, whatever it was, was not there before. More importantly, he could sense a barely perceivable but unmistakably cold aura that seeped out from it. His golden eyes remained on the old woman's hand as she used her other one to reach for her wooden staff, using it to heave herself off the floor.

"This amulet belonged to Utsugi. It is what he used to gather souls. See the center? That's a Meido stone." Aware of what had caught his curiosity, the old miko opened her palm and revealed the golden plate-like object that had a purple stone slotted in. "Utsugi gave it to me. He told me it will aid the saint in her recovery."

Sesshomaru kept his sight on the object. Based on what she said, the unnatural wisps of energies being emitted by the stone were the remnants of souls that have yet to be consumed by the netherworld. If that was the case, then…

"How would fragmented souls be of assist for the woman?"

"Hmm? Has she not— Oh, never mind." Kakuju shook her head as if she had just understood something he could not. "I have no evidence to speak of, but I only wish for her best when I say this will help. Her physical injuries are mild but the depletion of her soul is a prime cause of alarm. These lost souls can stabilize hers and prevent it from breaking down."

"Then do it." Skepticism did not wane, though his confidence trampled over everything else. It wasn't that he had faith in the old woman. Far from it. He was simply convinced that she would not be able to pull any tricks under his observation.

"As you wish." With permission granted, Kakuju looped the amulet around the saint's neck. Sesshomaru watched unblinkingly as the stone in the center shimmered for a fraction of a second before trails of blue wisps flowed out and disappeared into the woman's body.

The process lasted until all of the souls stored inside the stone were absorbed. Much to Sesshomaru's displeasure, the saint did not stir. Although if the way that the muscles in her body had relaxed somewhat was an indication, then whatever it was that the souls did, they had done it right.

Now, all there was left to do was to wait for her to rise.

Sesshomaru sat cross-legged next to the campfire, his face illuminated by the crackling flames that provided light and warmth under the night sky. A high-level youkai such as himself did not need what the fire provided, though it was a different matter for the woman lying on the makeshift bed to his right. Without anything that could serve as a blanket to keep out the cold, the warmth was essential for her at present.

Despite her injuries having been properly treated and her soul restored to normal, Kakuju was adamant about not subjecting the saint to any more unnecessary movements. After all, having your soul forcefully pulled out was both physically and mentally taxing. The old miko spoke as though she knew from experience and it was the certainty in her voice that had convinced the daiyoukai to follow her advice.

In any case, there was no denying that his knowledge of healing was very limited.

Sesshomaru took a deep breath and closed his eyes. With nothing better to do, he refined his senses and re-evaluated his surroundings once more. As expected, there was no one else. Having spread his youki to envelop the surrounding area — a youkai's way of marking their territory — one would have to be a fool to not turn tail. Even a daiyoukai, so long as they were not actively seeking a fight, would be deterred by the foreboding sensation of his youki piercing into their skin.

The only ones spared from the hostility were those camping with him. With the saint being next to him, it wasn't difficult to ensure that his youki would leave her undisturbed. It simply took a bit of a conscious effort. As for Rin and Kakuju, the effects would be kept at a bare minimum as long as they were wearing the protective charm that the latter had created with his help.

The thought of the two humans guided his senses. At that moment, the sound of Rin's bare feet coming into contact with the ground became distinctive amongst the crackles of the fire. The little girl was at a nearby tree, humming a soft tune to herself while gathering the fruits that she had gotten off the tree.

Kakuju couldn't be heard because she was further away, though she was still within the daiyoukai's sensory range. If she was indeed doing what she said she would, then she was looking for a water source that she could make tonight's meal with.

Tonight's meal, like the campfire blazing with radiance, was a necessity for humans. It wasn't something that could hinder him if he went without for the day. While food consumption was necessary for youkai, they didn't require it daily to keep their bodies functioning.

As of late, he couldn't help but make these comparisons that he would never have bothered before meeting the saint.

Actually, it was odd that he would permit humans to hang around him…

On that line of thought, weren't there quite a few oddities in his life as of late?

For starters, why did Rin feel so comfortable around him?

Like the saint, the little girl never did fear him. Not even a little. In fact, the untouchable air that was a constant around him only seemed to invite her to approach and attempt to comprehend the superiority of his existence. Even more peculiar though, was the sudden realization that had taken root. The way that those genuine smiles of hers would light up her face made the Inu daiyoukai reluctant to instill terror into her.

A minuscule frown marred his handsome features. He opened his eyes. Steering his musing away from these senseless feelings elicited by the presence of these humans, the Inu prince stretched out his left arm and flexed his claw. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, though there was no way he could forget the magnitude of power that he had wielded. The dazzling green light that had brightened everything inside the cave was a power that could rival — no, he was positive that it surpassed — his father's Tessaiga.

This unfathomable power sealed within him had been unleashed because he had awakened the urge to protect the saint. Yes, he recalled that desire, that pure passion of wanting to keep the woman safe.

The Inu daiyoukai dropped his arm and beheld the shimmering moon that was the shape of the marking on his forehead. In that instance, he had to erase the fleeting temptation to delve deeper into the sentimental concept that his father had said he lacked.

'Hijiri, is this another cryptic message of yours? Emotion is for the weak. All it would accomplish is dull my battle instincts and blunt my claws. Yet… I cannot fathom another reason for what had transpired. What is the true answer that eludes me still?'

His contemplation was brought to an abrupt halt when a bright beam of azure blue cut the sky open with a screech and began its descent toward him.

He stood up straight away, his hand above his head. Moving away had been an option but he didn't want the saint to be caught in the shockwave that might result in a small crater.

The object smashed into the palm of his hand with a gentleness that one wouldn't expect from something with its velocity. However, it all made sense when the light faded and his fingers curled to find their way around the end of the object. It was a familiar grip for anyone experienced with holding a sword.

But it was no ordinary sword.

'This is…?' Sesshomaru's eyebrows were yanked downward into an obvious frown. A thin steel body that ended with a red guard, along with white diamond-shaped symbols that lined the handle. The unique design of this blade was one etched into his memory.

This was the Inu no Taisho's Tenseiga, the sword of heaven and one of the Three Swords of the Honorable Ruler!

What was it doing here? Why was it in his grasp instead of his father's?

All at once, his instincts screamed warnings at him and there was something twisted creeping its way into his brain. He shoved them all aside, compelling his rationale to take reign.

As incredulous as it was, something had happened to the almighty Inu no Taisho. With Ryukotsusei sealed, no other prominent threat came into mind. Still, the Lord of the West had as many comrades as enemies. For every potential ally who respected him, there was an equal chance for someone who could become jealous of his power and act against him.

'Was Father involved in a fight?' The question only stimulated more questions. It didn't take long before Sesshomaru realized that fathoming wasn't going to get him anywhere. This wasn't the time to sit around; he had to get back to the west. If he hurried, he could cross the borders early in the morning.

Yet…

Despite the urgency of the situation and his instincts rearing to go, he remained standing where he was. For once in his life, he was lodged between two options. Carrying the saint back with him in her state would be detrimental to her recovery, but he didn't like the idea of leaving her behind either. Especially not after everything that had happened.

A frustrated growl almost escaped his lips. But he managed to rein it in with his self-control when he noticed signs of the woman awakening.

"Sesshomaru?" She gave a soft grunt. Contrary to the expectation, she did not push herself up with her elbow and continued to lay in a supine position.

"You're awake." Nothing else came to the forefront of his brain so the daiyoukai stated the obvious. With a measured breath, he cast aside his inward restlessness and reclaimed the seat that was next to her. His seat.

"Why do you have Tenseiga?" she asked, cutting straight to the point, even while the blade in question was on the ground and half-hidden from her view with his body.

Sharp as ever, he noted. With that, she brought back the urgent subject of contemplation to his brain. Considering Tenseiga's sudden appearance, there was no reason why he shouldn't be pacing himself to return. To linger was irrational. But he couldn't leave now; it just did not bide well with him.

So he opted to give her an explanation, in hopes of satisfying both her and his unprecedented indecisiveness.

"I am unaware of the circumstances that brought Tenseiga to me. For this blade to part with its chosen wielder would imply that it is prepared to elect a new one." He unconsciously clenched his jaws at the last part of the sentence, loathing how neutral the implication had arrived.

A short moment of silence, then she spoke. "You should head back, Sesshomaru. I'll be fine here."

Her voice was the wind that scattered the thick fog of deliberations. Again, she was quick to pinpoint what thoughts had been wrestling in his mind.

Alas, being Sesshomaru, he didn't simply heed her suggestion. "Hmph, I did not think your memory was this appalling. Have you forgotten what had transpired following your endeavor of self-preservation mere hours ago? You have proven that you cannot defend yourself effectively while injured."

"... I suppose I cannot argue with that," she muttered. The fact that she had conceded only reinforced his statement. However, her stubborn nature would not permit her to drop the conversation. "It is true that you have nothing to take but my words. Nonetheless, I refuse to suffer the same predicament again. I will not allow the humiliation."

With that declaration came an assurance that was natural for her. It shone with the intent to act, to follow through with her promise. Still, it all came down to the perspective of pride. There were actually numerous ways — generated from logic and retrospect — for him to retort. But starting a debate with her was not the reason why he had stayed. More importantly, there was a part of him that — dare he admit — enjoyed the display of her customary confidence, however baseless it was this time.

Letting out the usual huff of derision, he pulled out Kochou's paper from the hidden compartment of his kimono and pressed it onto her palm that rested by her side.

"I shall hold on to your words." With Tenseiga in one hand, he stood up and spun on his heels so that his back was facing her. "I expect to see you well by the time I return. I will be back as soon as I am able."

"...Sesshomaru."

"..." He proceeded to amass the youki he needed to take flight without any verbal response, though he did acknowledge her with a backward glance.

She seemed a bit hesitant; he could sense it from her aura. But it was transient before she continued, "...Thank you for saving me, Sesshomaru. When I was imprisoned and had my soul wrenched out, I assumed the worst, that this extended life of mine would have been over. But you came. I'm grateful."

Now that was unusual; she was being unprecedentedly meek. Did a weakened soul equate to weakened willpower? Sesshomaru was never one to care about what others thought of him. His mode of operation was that he did things that suited his whims without a care for anyone else. Words, whether threats or displays of appreciation, meant nothing to him.

However...

"Hm," he let escape a low hum before taking off. He had all but shot off into the starry night so fast that only a reddish trail was left behind. To think that some part of him was tempted to linger longer, to stay with the woman who had given that earnest expression of gratitude.

He forcefully brushed aside that persisting desire and filled his head with thoughts of his father. Although he did not believe — refused to believe — that any emergency was beyond the Inu no Taisho's capabilities, he would still listen to his intuition and head back to confirm the state of the west. That was his priority and once that was done, he could sit down to reflect on the foreign fluttering sensation that had fleetingly blossomed inside his chest.

Something was terribly wrong.

By the time he had stepped into the lord's manor, there were enough weeping servants and shaken soldiers to leave a pit of dread in even the most apathetic youkai in the world.

Sesshomaru pushed forward, his keen eyes taking in the gloomy atmosphere while making a beeline for his father's study. The truth — He knew he would find it there rather than trying to make out all the incoherent mutterings from the emotional subjects.

Stepping into the room of his destination, he was greeted with the sight of a forlorn Hibiki. His mother was present as well, gravely serious and devoid of all the enigmatic nature that was a part of her essence.

The Inukimi's mouth parted to speak, her golden orbs having lost their usual shine.

This time. Only this one time was it so easy to predict what she was going to say. Even before she could articulate the first syllable, he knew what the crushing truth that would come spiraling out of her lips was.

"...Sesshomaru, your father is dead," she whispered.

Rooted to the ground as though gravity had suddenly amplified tenfold, Sesshomaru stood with an unreadable feature that could only be described as cold. Yet, amidst all the silent grief, no one in the room noticed the blood that trickled down from the daiyoukai's clenched fists, like streaks of tears that would not gather and fall from his narrowed eyes.

More Author's Notes: Poor Sesshy. Alas, we all know it'll come eventually. To be frank, I had contemplated depicting the battle between the Inu no Taisho and — yep, that's right — Shishinki. But that would involve breaking away from Sesshomaru's POV and I didn't want that. This means that we'll never get the whole intense fight between the two daiyoukai, though, in the next chapter, I plan on having 'someone' fill in some of the bigger holes with some details. Oh, and also in the next chapter, we will be having two familiar faces show up. I hope you'll look forward to it.

Thank you for reading. Reviews and feedbacks are very much appreciated.