Disclaimer: This story is based on "Inuyasha," copyrighted by Rumiko Takahashi. No infringement of copyright intended or implied.

Farewell

"Kohaku?"

Opening his eyes, Kohaku stood up and turned away from Kikyo's shrine. Praying had calmed him; he met his sister's eyes steadfastly.

She looked him up and down, noting his armor, his kusarigama and his sword.

"You're leaving."

He nodded, grateful that she came quickly to the point.

"Why?" she demanded. "I thought you liked it here! Everyone likes you! We're family again! How can you just leave!"

He had practiced this in his mind. Still, he had to clench his hands and breathe deeply. "Because, I can't pretend what happened to me, what I did, didn't happen. I know killing father wasn't my fault, or most of the rest. But, I can't—can't forget, and I—I don't fit in here."

She stared at him, pain-stricken. He forced himself to continue.

"I want—I need—to become strong. I want to protect people: to save lives. I want—" he hesitated a moment, "What father said about me that last night: I want to make it true."

"But, you'll be alone!"

Kirara chirped, leaning against his leg. "Kirara's coming with me."

Her face crumpled with more misery. "But, I just got you back, and now you want to leave again!"

His own eyes stung. "Please, sister. Don't be angry. I'm sorry. I have to."

Tearing eyes met; Sango's fell first. "Tell me you'll come back?"

"I'll visit."

She started to turn away, then turned back, opening her arms. "Brother?"

They clung to each other, saying farewell.

Author's Note: This is the start to a new story, about Kohaku after he leaves Kaede's village. It will mostly be told in bits and pieces through LiveJournal prompts. This piece was written for the prompt 'Point', on the issekiwa LiveJournal community. It was originally published on April 28, 2011, and took second. (05/10/2011)