The morning of the third day.
The three children stood at the gates of Yagyu City, preparing to leave.
"Are you really not staying another day?"
Inuyasha glanced back at the city gates, a trace of reluctance in his voice.
"We've already stayed a long time."
Sakura slung her bundle over her back and straightened her Bamboo Hat.
"It's time to go."
"All right."
Inuyasha muttered, pulling his Bamboo Hat down over his head to hide his ears.
Saku stood between them, hugging a doll and clutching a carved wooden bird in her hand.
She looked back at Yagyu City, morning light reflected in her eyes.
"Big Sister, the matter with that Ape God... isn't something we should concern ourselves with."
Sakura froze for a moment and looked down at her sister.
"What?"
"That Ape God, and that Moon Eater..."
Saku's voice was soft.
"Their story is their own business."
"We're just... passing through."
Sakura fell silent for a moment.
"Then what about your mark?"
Saku lowered her head and looked at her chest.
"The mark is my own business."
"I'll... face it myself."
"What are you talking about?"
Inuyasha reached out and ruffled Saku's hair.
"Your mark is our business."
"Enough of this nonsense. Let's go."
Saku's hair was thoroughly messed up. She pouted, but did not dodge away.
Sakura smiled and stepped out through the city gates.
Inuyasha followed, with Saku bringing up the rear.
The three children headed north along the main road.
They walked for around two hours.
The scenery along the road gradually changed from farmland to wilderness. The trees grew denser, and there were fewer and fewer signs of people.
Inuyasha's ears suddenly twitched.
He stopped and pricked up his ears.
Sakura turned to look at him.
"There's Demonic Energy..."
Inuyasha frowned.
"A lot