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Chapter 10: Not Made for This

"What the hell?" Inuyasha said glaring across his sharp deadly crafted weapon. Everyone stood locked in silence staring across the small ample space that separated them from Sesshomaru and the strangely colored woman standing in defense behind him. Her hands had lowered and slowly reached towards the weapons on her hips ready to draw. Her eyes flickered back and for forth between the obviously two brothers. Honey dew eyes and silver strands of hair blew in the wind gently. Her eyebrows furrowed noticing despite them sharing blood in their veins, they also possessed dark expressions that didn't portray close familiar ties.

Sesshomaru's sword was drawn and mimicked Inuyasha's aimed back at the younger brother. The warm reddening setting sun, settled across her skin and casted shadows on the obvious curves of her body. Inuyasha's eyes darted from Sesshomaru to the bizarre woman with dark skin and thick hair as white as his own. Her azure eyes were exotic and foreign set into the shape of large almonds. Inuyasha watched her side stepped the Inu avoiding Sesshomaru's protection, trying to get a good look at him as well. Her eyes also flit between himself and Sesshomaru with a look of confusion and question.

"Lord Sesshomaru!" Jaken yelled bursting through the trees wildly. His little feet ran closer towards the chaos in front of him with his mouth ready to exploit the good deed he had taken upon himself by getting rid of the remnants of the enemy. His staff head blew wisps of smoke from previous use. "I killed another one-" Jaken came to a stop looking cautiously between the two brothers unsure of what transpired to cause this step back in their settled armistice since the death of Naraku.

Kagome stood behind Inuyasha slowly placing her bow to her side not sensing anymore danger about the village. She looked at the woman noting her eccentric dress attire. The skin of her arms, top of her chest and legs were bare to the eyes which she knew from experience was scandalous in this time period. The fabric of her outfit was different in design with a sheer overlay on top. Her cobalt eyes were lined with black lines defining the depth to them even more than they naturally were. Electricity rolled across her lightly prickling her skin. Kagome's mind reeled with knowledge of where this woman looked to be from. Everything about her spoke of the foreign lands and power of the ancient Egyptian people. Her eyes widened seeing history before her step straight out of the textbooks of her high school history class. Her shaking hand came out and very gently she laid it over Inuyasha's grip on the hilt of Tesseiga. She saw his golden eyes flicker sideways to look at her and she quickly shook her head.

Rin stood still making no move to distance herself from the woman. Her eyes changed to look upwards at her Lord for answers and approval. Slowly, her fingers reached out to grasp the soft fabric of the Inu king's hakama. Her hands made contact and she ruffled them a bit to get his attention. She looked back at the woman with awe.

Sesshomaru looked downwards at Rin. Her round face was upwards and her tiny hands held onto him like he was her lifeline. Sesshomaru looked back to his brother's weapon before turning away giving him his back to look at. Slowly Sesshomaru put his sword back into its sheath at his side. His clawed hand now free of the deadly steel went to pet the top of Rin's head gently and linger with affection. His claws ran through the short strands and grazed her scalp pleased to see her beam a bright smile and close her eyes to enjoy the small greeting.

"How have you been milord? I missed you greatly!" Rin spoke letting go and looking up at him with warm opened brown eyes.

Ororo still stood in a protective stance with fingers now gripping her Khopish blades unsure of the situation. The energy that wafted off of the giant sword made her apprehensive. How the two brothers were so quick to point their weapons at each other greatly disturbed her. She did not want to be in the middle of a family fight; for she had heard of her own bloody history regarding the lengths family would go for worldly desires and titles. He didn't speak of Inuyasha falsely during their travels. He hadn't really spoke much about him at all except for his strength and the prowess of his mate. But there was a dark tone at times upon saying his name along with the miko's. Ororo's eyes traveled to the entire group varying in shapes, sizes, and species. They stood together with comradery staring at her like she meant them great harm. Ororo then looked to the woman standing slightly behind Inuyasha flexing and stretching her holy power against her electrical warning surge. Ororo's eyes widened in acknowledgement of whom the woman reminded her of. Despite the design of her battle uniform, she recognized her as the same woman from her vision.

Ororo closed her eyes to gather herself and her thoughts to end this nonsense. With confidence she relaxed and stood a bit straighter with her head held high. Her fingers dropped to her side and she spoke looking to them all. "Put down your weapons please. We have much to discuss." She spoke with a commanding tone. Her accent was thick but understandable. Her eyes went to the miko standing at his side annoyed that Inuyahsa did not move to put away his sword. Kagome's hands retracted before coming to her own shoulder adjusting her bow. Ororo to a step forward and saw Inuyasha stiffen his hold on his weapon. Her eyes stayed on Kagome's watching the young woman size her up. "Are you the mate of Inuyasha? Priestess Kagome? The great destroyer of the Shikon Jewel?"

"Who are you exactly?" Kagome asked walking forward and around Inuyasha's sword uncaring of his whispered words to get back to safety. Her fingers pushed his sword lightly out of her way to avoid getting hurt on the sharp end of it. She looked at the woman taking in her gold bangles on her ankles and the gold cuffs earrings in her ears. The woman walked with perfect posture. Her energy was bright and warm leaving Kagome to believe this woman that came with Sesshomaru meant no harm.

"Are you crazy!" Inuyasha yelled watching Kagome continue forward completely placing her weapons back in their appropriate casings. He sighed heavily before putting away his own weapon finally and crossing his arms a bit uncomfortable at the situation. His eyes stayed trained on the woman uncaring of the doings of his brother whom he relatively trusted now.

In seconds the two women stood in front of each other. Ororo stood tall against Kagome's short frame locking eyes with her. "I'm Ororo, Great Pharaoh of Egypt and Queen of the Nile. It is a pleasure to finally meet you great priestess Kagome and relative of Lord Sesshomaru. I've read and heard so much about you from my journey."

Kagome blushed and smiled waving her hands in nonchalance. Her mind took in her words and she looked to her in shock. "From Egypt? But that's so far from here! How did you make the journey? What brings you here of all places?" Kagome asked in shock as Inuyasha put away his sword and tried to make sense of what the two were talking about. Miroku, Shippo, and Kohaku ran up to his side looking as interested as he was.

"You know of Egypt?" Ororo spoke, her attention captivated that finally someone knew of her homeland in detail.

Kagome bit her lip in hesitation. "I have only read about your people. More so about the Kings and Queens there. And of course your religious practices of tombs and pyramids."

Ororo nodded in excitement. "You know of my family and Cairo! It is truly a pleasure to speak with you priestess. Perhaps after we have discussed and have gotten rid of this common enemy we can speak more of your teachings. This is the reason I am here. I need to find a solution to the problem that may plague my people. I hope you can shed some light."

Kagome nodded and was about to speak before Miroku stepped forward to cut in. "Let us all move inside so that we can speak in peace then?" Miroku offered ushering towards a larger hut in the distance. Ororo looked around noticing some of the people standing about in wonder and whispering to their neighbors. A few men checked if everything was clear before rushing quickly back to the fields to collect their harvests.

Miroku turned to the two boys alongside of him. "Kohaku, can you please get Sango and watch over the village please. Shippo you go with him to help." The boys nodded their heads and took off quickly with Kirara to do as they were told.

Ororo turned to look at Lord Sesshomaru noticing the overly stoic mask he donned. She frowned a bit in question of his actions even among his extended family. Were these people not to be trusted? But it was his prerogative to talk to the miko and his brother in the first place. She looked at him a bit longer and nodded in respect and thanks for his silent help in defense. He simply walked forward not giving any more life to what had passed. Rin followed dutiful afterwards speaking of things that transpired. Jaken managed to come up and apprehend the little one form be so familiar with Sesshomaru in her greeting habits but Sesshomaru never said anything himself. Ororo looked at her in confusion wondering of those things found before in the small alcove belonged to her. And what would the Inu be doing with a child? Following his exampled she trailed after him stepping onto the dirt path that would take them towards the meeting point.

Her eyes took in the village and the people standing outside of the entrances of their homes looking at her and whispering amongst themselves. The size of the village and the architecture of the huts spoke of prosperity and thrive among them. Inuyasha was up ahead clearly upset and speaking to Kagome with hushed tones. His eyes glared at the back of his brother's head before he spoke catching the Inu's attention.

"And finally you come back so Rin can now stop blubbering about you all the time." Inuyasha blurted. "It's annoying!"

Sesshomaru didn't stop but kept walking as Rin looked back seemingly hurt because of Inuyasha's complaint. Her voice came out small as she looked back at the younger brother. "Lord Inuyasha, I tho-"

"Rin."

She looked up at her Lord who never strayed from the path. His eyes looked down at her. "Speak louder for him to hear you. Do not mumble your thoughts."

Her smile brightened instantly and her voice came out louder. "Of course, Lord Sesshomaru. Maybe, Lord Inuyasha wishes for me to talk about him as well!" She shouted out loud to no one in particular. Her jubilation increased at the possibility of finding a solution to Inuyasha's comment.

"The hell!" Inuyasha yelled out as Kagome visibly sweat dropped. Ororo's hand came up hiding her smile while walking forward next to the monk who simply smiled at the occurrence.

"Inuyasha." Sesshomaru called out. "Watch your mouth."

The Inu began ranting then and his words went uncared for by the group. Ororo looked to Miroku for his insight. "The nature of their relationship is confusing." Ororo spoke. "Is this behavior common?"

"You'd be surprised. Today is a good day for the two." He said increasing her curiosity.

They finally made it to the entrance of the large hut. The building looked rather new and contained many sutras for protection against various things. Everyone stepped in properly taking off shoes and showing respect to the meeting and joining of parties. Ororo watched as Miroku prepared the large hut by lighting a fire in the pit for warmth and directing her to a cushioned seat on the left side of the room. Kagome quickly began preparing a kettle and tea cups clearly excited to hear the nature of their business. Sesshomaru came in with the air of indifference and sat to her right in silence. Rin followed hugging the sack to her that Sesshomaru carried with him along the journey. Her small arms wrapped around it protectively with a large smile on her face. Sango came in helping Kaede into the hut gently as well guiding her to a seat nearby. She moved slowly intriguing Ororo of her presence at this meeting. Kagome and the rest sat on the other looking at her ready to ask their questions.

"Why did you bring her here?" Inuyasha stated looking at his brother with a glare.

Sesshomaru simply gave him a sideways glance and decidedly to look elsewhere along the wall finding it more appealing than his brother's scorn. Kagome could see the frown growing on Ororo's face looking between the two brothers before she quickly stepped in to diffuse the situation. She began rapidly passing out tea to anyone that wanted it before she spoke. "What he means…" she spoke glaringly at her mate, reprimanding him in silence. "…is what has brought you to us? And thank you for your help back there with destroying those creatures." She offered Ororo a cup of tea in which she took politely and nodded her head in thanks.

"I have come very far to stop the wrath of those things you saw earlier from reaching my people. They have originated in this land and so I need to find the source." Ororo spoke taking a sip of her black tea and placing it down. "Those creatures are possessive beings. They can attack with their claws and do quite a bit of damage but their true purpose is to spread darkness and utilize the body to do their deeds. But these things are summoned creatures. In order for them to exist they must be called upon. This I am certain."

"How do you know?" Sango asked leaning forward out of curiosity of the strange woman. "And who are you exactly?" She stated looking at everyone for information.

Kagome blushed in embarrassment. She apologized and went on her introductions. Everyone bowed their heads and Ororo nodded in kind. She made sure to pay proper respect to Lady Kaede for her wisdom and age. "Egypt is a very far country. It would take possibly a human birth year to get there if I'm not mistaken."

Ororo agreed with this. "And to answer your question Lady Sango, I have seen this evil act. My sister and I are blessed with second sight. After quite a bit of research within my father's library we have determined this to be true and that they have a name. Gigas Shadow. They are called upon by an extremely desperate and dark soul to possess the body of another. The being possessed, have to be of weakened heart or already tainted in spirit to allow the possession to take place. They are relatively weak and can be easily destroyed. They forage for the person they are supposed to possess."

Kaede nodded. "Aye, there is such a thing taught in training as well but we give them the name Hātoresu. They do not attack right away? These creatures hesitate. They read the hearts of their victims and then they attack but notice the victim doesn't die."

"That would explain that last demonic attack." Miroku said touching his chin lightly. "After I threw an ofuda, a black smoke vanished from the body of the demon. The demon was fine and actually scrambling to get away leaving in peace."

"They do move funny. Not like how demons or humans move to attack. It was shaky and chaotic like it was waiting for something." Kohaku spoke now sitting in deep though. "There were a few away from the mountains crawling up." He shifted the bag he carried and pulled out a map. Everyone watched him lay it out before them to show his markings. He took out some seeds and laid them over the places where he last encountered these new enemies. Sango reached over and placed them down on where she had seen them in villages. Everyone watched looking at the map watching the curve it made along the border.

"Who's watching my girls?" Sango asked looking at Kohaku. "And you didn't leave Shippo and Kirara by themselves to watch the village?" Kohaku could see the darkening look on her face and he sighed before standing and leaving the hut to watch over the village.

Sesshomaru looked and nearly stiffened. He watched the seeds line along what looked to be the border of his lands. However, know seemed to know this as there wasn't any physical drawing of this fact. He looked at Ororo's face the stared at the map in contemplation.

"Was there anything else you noticed about these villages?" She asked.

Miroku thought on this. "Many of these places didn't actually suffer from these creatures. But there would be upstarts about demons attacking farmlands and the people would demand retribution for these acts."

"We had come across this too." Ororo said looking at Sesshomaru for confirmation. "The demon villages spoke of enraged humans starting conflicts with their villages for crimes they didn't commit. Maybe these shadow creatures are possessing demons to attack the humans and vice versa? This sounds like what is happening do you agree?"

"You say these things are being controlled. We need to figure out by who and why?" Kagome stated.

"But it is skipping villages." Sango stated pointing on the map. "Notice it has not come to these or any of these further pass the forests on the east."

"What's so special about these towns versus the other ones?" Inuyasha asked looking at the map himself.

"Also we were just attacked." Miroku spoke adding a seed to the map showing their location.

"Is there something here you harbor?" Ororo asked. "Something of importance? Those creatures are attracted to darkness or are sent by their master to taint someone. So someone here was targeted and shares it with these villages."

They looked around and shook their heads. "Rarely do we get attacks out of fear of those powerful that reside here. Even more so now that people know Lord Sesshomaru visits the village." Kaede stated knowingly. "We have not had anything like this sense the presence of the jewel. But this has been destroyed and we are certain of this. This village is peaceful and prospering greatly. Everyone here is happy and in good health."

Everyone nodded in agreement. "Is there any protection against these adversaries?" Miroku asked her looking between the foreign woman and the Inu Lord. He noticed their bodies sat at a comfortable distance yet close enough that spoke of friendliness that intrigued him. He watched as Rin slowly moved her body to get a better view of the woman.

Ororo thought of this. "I have never witnessed it being used but I did read that a proper spiritual barrier can help. Of course finding their master and destroying him is the ultimate end."

"Feh, and where do we start with that?" Inuyasha spoke. "It could be anyone!"

"That is surprisingly easy." Ororo spoke reaching to her side and picking up her satchel. Her hands dug inside of it and pulled out something heavy and thick. Everyone's eyes widened to see her hands holding a book dipped in solid gold with strange pictures engraved on the front. She smiled down at it running her fingers along the images of the scale of Maat and the head of Anubis. "My bag is enchanted to hold a great deal for this journey. My sister was upset that I refused to take a few thousand men and proper sailing with me. So she settled for this and a few trinkets inside. This…" She held up. "Is a copy of the Book of the Dead. I believe there is a spell in here to dispel those creatures." Her fingers opened the book and flipped through the warn pages until she came to the right one.

"Book of the Dead?" Miroku questioned looking at her alarmed while muttering a prayer underneath his breath.

"Yes, this holds over several millennia of information regarding life, death, and the afterlife. Here-Yes, a simple blessing will do of the grounds but of course making sure the heart stays somewhat strong against corruption." Her eyes continued to fold the papyrus until she found what else she was looking for. "The castor will be easy to find because the darkness will grow inside of him. We should be able to sense it. The longer the spell is used the more damage it does to the one who cast it." She looked up and placed the book down revealing the written language of her people that they couldn't read or comprehend. Her mind thought over this information and she realized Sesshomaru and Inuyaha couldn't be the spell castors because she would feel the evilness. But, that didn't change the fact that it was still their bodies aiming with sharp claws ready dead deadly blows to her and her people. Maybe they were corrupted? Did they harbor enough darkness inside of them to be tainted?

"Aye, this sounds to be the best action available to us until we can identify this foe..." Kaede spoke looking at Ororo.

Sesshomaru was in his own thoughts thinking of this. How did he not know about these attacks along his borders? His mind thought of the waning Ororo originally had given to him about his house holding a traitor. Could the person doing this be someone in his lands or in his own castle? Searching for Naraku did take him away from his household for some time but everything was fine when he returned. His fellow sovereigns spoke about strange things going on in their own lands. Could this be it? The urge to return home bubbled inside of him. A low growl left his lips and very quickly he stood silencing the room. He walked over to the shoji doors and pulled it aside regarding Rin with a hard stern look. "Rin prepare your things for departure." He spoke before exiting the hut leaving everyone inside in silence. Rin rushed out of the door to do as she was told happily with a squabbling Jaken hot on her heels. Everyone watched with brimming questions.

"It's not safe. It is best the child stays with him." Kaede spoke sipping her tea that Kagome poured for her. "Wise choice."

"How are you with Sesshomaru?" Miroku asked Ororo watching her look after the pair as they exited the house. "He's not exactly a character seen with the presence of a beautiful woman." Sango turned her head and looked at him glaringly as he held his hands up in defense. "Of course he travels alone these days is the reason for my asking."

Ororo stilled placing her cup down turning back to look at them all. "I had a vision that he too was affected by these devils. I originally sought him out first since I came here not knowing much of anyone or anything. It is very difficult to travel and not know the language or the way to go. Almost impossible actually." She explained. "I learned about your language and land. Once I felt I was well prepared, I began to seek him out. He has been a very gracious king so far as to share knowledge and his resources with me."

"Clearly, you don't know him at all." Inuyasha spoke. "He probably wants something from you." Kagome face palmed wishing her mate would stop talking.

Ororo nodded. "I would agree and would be perfectly fine for a reasonable exchange and I'm aware of this. But he has not mentioned anything except wanting to help his own land and people." She spoke rationalizing. She was no fool and knew people often did things with reason. And she didn't exactly fully trust the Inu king either as well as his blood sitting across from her speaking of his brother seemingly in poor taste. She looked at him deciphering why he wouldn't come to the defense of his brother's honor but mentioned slightly of possible betrayal.

"You don't share such high regards for your oldest brother. How come I wonder? You both seem honorable." Her mind wondered of ways she could eliminate both brothers. It would be in bad form to do so considering her newly found companionship with the priestess but if it meant safety for her people she would do what needed to be done. "Are you saying that he cannot be trusted?"

Inuyasha sat crossing his arms before he felt the pain of Kagome's hand his ears yanking. "Why you do that for!" He yelled holding the spot.

"For being an idiot." Kagome said before quickly moving to her feet to clean up. Sango shook her head as well. Kagome immediately stepped in cutting the hanyou off from the conversation. She found that she liked the picture across from her of the exotic beauty next to her stoic big brother. They bolt looked fitting together and slowly a plan formed in her mind. Maybe she would have a friendly relative in this time period that she would be able to call sister affectionately. Her soul was dancing at the prospect and maybe the good fortune that could bring the two siblings closer together. They were so close as it was. "Don't listen to Inuyasha, they banter all the time. It's just sibling rivalry you know?" She said laughing nervously a bit. She took in Ororo's unconvinced gaze. "Sesshomaru may be a bit harsh at times but he is a great guy and deserves your trust. Right guys!"

Miroku coughed and Sango nodded just going with whatever Kagome was trying to sell. She looked at Kagome understanding silently something was happening with the young maiden. Ororo looked at them all apprehensively and not fully sold on this idea. Her head turned to Kaede.

"And great honorable priestess, what are your thoughts on the matter?"

Kaede sipped her tea and simply nodded neither agreeing completely or disagreeing. No one really knew what went on the head of Inuyasha's older brother. But she never knew Sesshomaru to tell a lie or do anything against what he said. Despite his flaws and deadly nature, Sesshomaru did look after Rin and showed great care for the young ward as if she was his child. "Lord Sesshomaru is complex but he is very honorable. If he has given his word about something good or bad, it is worth its weight in gold."

Ororo stared at her with hardened diamonds taking in her wisdom. Her feet pushed underneath her and she stood up tall. Very politely she nodded her head in gratitude and walked towards the entrance sliding the doors open catching the last ray of sunlight leave the land. "Be sure to put up a barrier around your village. Thank you for your words. You have given me much to think about." And with that she stepped out of the door leaving everyone inside sharing glances and whispers of their own.

The moon was high in the night sky revealing its belly to the people of earth. Ororo found herself alone in the woods walking among the trees towards a place she could feel magic surrounded. She walked and touched things along the way loving nature and the life she gave to the earth. Her feet crossed over roots and vines of trees following a path that surprisingly seemed worn from previous traffic. She walked until she came to the base of a rather large old tree.

The vines and roots twisted and wrapped around the base intimately. The vibrant green leaves of the tree shined of great health and vigor. Her hands touched the wood coaxing a gentle sigh from her lips. The tree thrummed with wisdom and energy that flowed up and out in a calming manner. Holy energy flowed in its veins feeding it along with the energy from the sun back into the earth cleansing it steadily. She looked up at it before taking a seat at the base to listen to it speak of things seen and heard. She rubbed it affectionately hoping that maybe she could find clarity here before returning to the village.

She looked up counting the stars noting that with every question she had, there was a star to twinkle about it. She pulled out her curved weapon and analyzed it wondering when its intended use would approach. Her reflection shined in the metal looking back at her. Torn she became of what to do. Before when she left her home she was hell bent on finding these men and executing them as quickly and efficiently as possible. But, things became more complicated. She twirled her weapon and swung it down slowly practicing what would be a deadly blow before raising it high again and swiping in another direction. Her hands stilled before holding it in her hand thoughtfully.

"I have spilt much blood with this weapon for the name of my country. Why am I hesitating now?" She looked at the moonlight reflecting off her weapon onto the dirt below. "Sesshomaru and Inuyasha can you be trusted? Will you be so easily tainted and corrupted? Are you already?" She asked giving voice to her thoughts. She mulled them over one by one in her mind. She did not sense any deceit or evilness. She thought onto the little girl wondering how the two came to be. He had a young child. There must be some good in him to care so for this human child. She stilled feeling the warmth of radiant energy approach. She put away her weapon and waited crossing her legs and arms. The shadow of a woman approaching was seen in the back drop of the forest.

Kagome came forward dressed in her red and white miko robes. Since, Ororo's departure, she felt oddly disturbed at possibly something beautiful being ruined. A need to inform the woman bubbled in her chest until it could not be contained. Everyone was back in the village having dinner and she volunteered to look for the woman and invite her. A strong vibration of energy came from sacred tree guiding her to the space to find who she hoped to be a friend. There she sat like a nymph straight out of a storybook looking enchanting and seemingly whispering her secrets to the tree she leaned on. Her hair seemed to glow underneath the moonlight and her eyes were as blue as the ocean looking up at her and waiting to see what she would do. Tentatively, she walked over to stand next to Ororo and touch the tree as well. "This is the Goshibuku, the Tree of Ages. It is a great gift to us and the village." She turned around to look down at Ororo with a smile. "It has helped solve many problems of mine as well."

Ororo nodded looking up at her returning her smile. Kagome bit her lip before leaning up against the tree. "What really brought you here?" She asked choosing to sit down next to Ororo.

Ororo paused thinking of what to say. She could tell Kagome was here out of concern. Was she that transparent? Deciding that she needed someone to voice her concerns to, she turned to the young priestess. "I've been in your presence of a few minutes and I'm ready to spill everything."Ororo leaned her head back against the bark to look at the high moon. "I miss my sister. I need her opinion. She was more emotionally savvy then I am."

Kagome smiled understanding the feeling. "I too don't have blood relatives here but, I made a family. You can do the same. I'm here if you need anything." Kagome offered tucking her legs underneath her form. "I'm feel like something more is upsetting you besides the reason for this visit. May I ask what it is?"

Ororo smiled wanting to test her kindness. "I'm afraid you may not like what I have to say. It is not an easy topic that ails me."

"Well I'll be the judge of that." Kagome stated preparing herself for anything. She had seen and heard many things in her short lifetime. She was positive that whatever the queen had to say, she would respond neutrally with a clear head.

Ororo paused catching the sight of a lizard scurrying into the bushes. Her stomach churned a little at the sight of the creature. A warning it was of her own possible betrayal. Quickly, her mind was made up and she decided to speak of the topic with care but transparency. "I came here because I had a vision that the two Inu brothers were coming with those creatures to seek and destroy everything in my home."

Kagome gasped. "They would never!" Kagome's mind whirled at the idea. She sat up slightly at the seriousness of the situation. Egypt was a very rich and powerful country. Surely, she didn't come all this way just to talk things over. Slowly a sickening idea bloomed inside of her belly and her mouth turned down. The more she thought about the prospect the more she believed it. She looked strongly at the woman with a serious gaze. "You asked about trust earlier. Can you be trusted?" She blatantly asked.

Ororo's eyes widened at having the tables turn on her. Trust was something everyone wanted and so easily lost. She demanded it of others but never had she ever had her own questioned. She looked at her hands studying the lines that spoke of her fortune and future vaguely now as things had changed. She had left her country so secure only to come this far and become as lost as a new born babe.

Kagome watched patiently. Her hands slowly came out to rest over Ororo's in a friendly gesture. The woman blinked and looked up at Kagome watching her give a simple smile after possibly witnessing her own faults and possible treachery. "I know you came here with good intentions. I can assure you these are good men that would face their problems head on then trying to find other means of escaping them. "

"Willingly." She spoke bringing up the possibility of them being possessed. "Do you really believe in your heart of hearts that they mean no ill will? That they are of good men? That they cannot be tempted into corruption?" Her whole body turned to Kagome. "I have fought battles, created treaties, and slaughtered to protect my people. I have my whole country hanging in the balance. Failure is not an option. I cannot afford to make a mistake." She looked away at the dirt path. "After hearing your mate and witnessing their bond, I'm not so sure I was entirely wrong. They don't appear to have the best relationship."

Kagome shook her head. "They didn't have the best relationship growing up because of the doings of their parents. Their parents didn't take it upon themselves to make sure they both had healthy relationships being half-brothers." She informed whispering now understanding that this was a delicate conversation. One that could not go on without proper security for if either Inu heard she would be in hot water. Kagome instantly threw up a sound barrier around them, providing privacy.

Ororo watched and waited for Kagome to speak. She found it ironic that they were both talking about trust and betrayal yet they trusted each other enough to have this conversation and in privacy like this. Kagome moved her hand back in her lap and thought about what to say next. "Inuyasha and Sesshomaru have come a long way. They are in a good place. Yes, they throw jabs and a threat now and again but they will fight for each other and that means more than anything. I've seen it." She said seriously. "And they would never ever allow anyone to corrupt them. They are too strong. This vision you have is a blessing."

"But it questions your family's intentions." Ororo asked confusingly at the serene nature of the miko who now sat as if nothing they were saying was of any harm.

"Yes, but it brought you here with us. So you must be strong and trust worthy enough to make sure this evil foe doesn't go through with his plans. You came here to work with us to get to the root of the problem and everyone here is helping you too. I'm sure Sesshomaru would have tried to kill you already if he thought you were getting in the way of his plans. He's not one to wait." She spoke thoughtfully.

Ororo stewed on this. This had a valid point. So far she had witnessed his behavior. He wasn't one to beat around the proverbial bush. Even in the case of the miko when he felt challenged he wanted to end the woman's life. She stepped in and stopped him despite his justification for doing so. She really had nothing he wanted. Their culture placed values on different things and concepts so it made no sense for him to lust after anything of hers or in her homeland. Did this make her the evil one? Was she the one corrupting then if she had such ill intentions? She could be starting a problem where there wasn't any. That alone would give him justification to come after her and her people. He and Inuyasha would have every right to come after her then if she betrayed them.

Ororo pulled her long ponytail to the side of her head to play in it forlornly. She looked back at Kagome with hope in her eyes at the leap of faith she was on the verge of making. "You truly vouch for their goodness great priestess?"

Kagome smiled. "My name is Kagome." A plan formed into her head. She smiled and gently patted Ororo's hands fondly. "I'll stake my life that they are the most honorable beings I know. And big brother is a honorable demon king who will find the culprit behind these attacks. But, he needs your help. WE need your help and that requires trust for the both of us." Kagome stood up and dusted her butt off. "I trust that you will help us and give us a chance. That would be very honorable of you to hold true to my sentiments."

Ororo leaned her head back to look up at Kagome. "You Japanese and your honor. I've never met people so dedicated to such a characteristic. And you don't speak or act like a typical Japanese woman here either. And I have met many priestesses and village women. They would not approve of your union."

Kagome stilled and smiled brightly. "Well you don't exactly fit in here yourself. And I was taught strong women are famous for standing out, not for fitting in."

Ororo smiled at this and made to stand as well. The barrier around them had fallen down leaving their conversation exposed. "Would I be able to convince you to return to Egypt with me and serve as a counselor? You are quite wise despite your young age." She asked playfully watching Kagome laugh. "Of course we would run into the conflict of religion and cultural practices, but I am willing to overlook these things."

"Maybe one day." Kagome said thinking of an entirely different reason for a visit to the land of gold. "Kaede made stew if you're hungry. I'll leave some in the pot for you over the fire when you're ready to get it." Kagome made to turn knowing the woman would not return with her. Hopefully, she changed her mind and would see reason.

"Thank you…Kagome." Ororo said truly bowing for once low for the woman. Kagome waved her hands for her to get up clearly embarrassed. "No, no. Just keep this conversation between us girls."

Ororo nodded in agreement and watched Kagome take the path back to the village. Ororo sighed feeling oddly lighted about the situation. No lies spilt form Kagome's lips and the truth overflowed in her aura. The more she sat to think the more she agreed with the young priestess. Sesshomaru had been nothing but a proper gentleman to her and had given her no reason to question his motives. He hadn't told her anything misleading and did not ask for anything from her. So he clearly had no motive to take gold or silver or anything of gain from her. She found herself sitting well into the night on the base of the tree in thought feeling more and more at ease. Ideas and thoughts came forward that she wanted to share with them now sat on her tongue in anticipation. She knew now what she wanted to do.

What she NEEDED to do.

Her senses flared feeling something move in the forest. A powerful controlled vibration was felt catching her attention and she waited again for the next visitor to see her. Silver hair flickered underneath the shine of the moon and golden eyes locked onto hers securely with questions in them. He stopped in front of her watching her calculating. She blinked and for the first time she opened herself up allowing him to see the hope and the concern in her own eyes.

"You should get rest." He stated matter-of-factly.

Ororo nodded but chose to sit back down in her spot finding that this tree was indeed magical and she was in need of all the clarity she could get. She looked up at the demon as he stared down at her questioning her reason for sitting on the earth in such a manner. Sesshomaru found this perturb him. To see her in such a vulnerable state made him feel at odds despite her strong and robust nature. He walked forward standing before her and bending down. He watched her eyes widen at his approach and bend to collect her. She sat in his hold and held onto him questioningly. He jumped into the tree tops above and sat her down amongst the safety of the branches near the trunk. She let go and nodded in silent thanks unsure of how to react after that. He moved on the other side of the tree sitting down in the branches as well. Ororo felt even more at ease now that she was giving him her trust. It went against her teachings and she questioned her common sense but she found it to be the right thing. But there was one question she needed answering in order to go forward. Swallowing she made herself comfortable in her spot high in the tree tops staring at the stars.

"Lord Sesshomaru?" She asked. Her response was silence. The sound of an owl somewhere began to sing somewhere answering for him she supposed. "Tell me of this honor Japanese people speak of. What does it mean to you?"

The night was quiet and nothing was heard except the owl in the background. She listened intensely for any fruit of wisdom he would give and provide shining a light on his own character and values. It stretched on making her second guess her decision and the desire to backtrack the progress made became apparent. She made a mental note to tell Kagome how wrong she was. The sound of the owl went quiet.

And then he spoke.

And the words flowed like water into a river calming her spirit and enlightening her of her own faults. He didn't speak much but what he said she found spoke volumes. And was enough to push her over the edge to trust in him without pause. It was enough to allow her to rest peacefully alone in his presence. Without fear of harm from him or from others. She silently prayed that one day he too would feel the same way.