I am finishing replying to a scroll when I feel the gentle caress of Kagome's aura as she comes down the hall to my study. "Come in, Kagome." I say as she reaches the door, receiving a soft chuckle before the door opens.

"Always know where I am, don't you." She smiles at me before sitting in front of my desk.

"Hn. Indeed." I reply as I flare my aura. Jaken pokes his head in, sees Kagome, nods and runs off to collect Sumi and the miko.

"Jaken is bringing the miko, as well as the head of my household staff, whom I wish you to be introduced to."

"Oh? Why's that?" she inquires, head cocking to the side a bit.

"If our courting is successful, as I hope it will be, you will be working with her closely. I wish to acquaint you with her now, so that you may find a working balance with each other." I answer, studying her carefully with all of my senses.

Her smile grows exponentially, blue eyes seeming to glow. "I can't wait."

A knock at the door announces the arrival of our guests. "Enter." I call out, motioning for Kagome to move to my side. As she does, the miko enters. The woman is middle aged with brown hair pulled back in a low tail, and solemn grey eyes.

"Sesshoumaru-sama, it is an honour to be chosen to train the Shikon Miko. I am Fumiko. I look forward to teaching you, young one." The woman smiles warmly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Kagome. I'm excited to finally get some proper training." Kagome's eyes slant towards me quickly before flicking back to the miko before us. "I hope you don't mind my asking, but I'm curious. You don't seem to care that I'm living with youkai, in fact travelled to a Cardinal Lord's shiro to teach me. Why?"

Blinking, the woman stares at Kagome for a moment before answering. "It is true that it is unusual for holy people to be unburdened by prejudice, however, I hold no illusions. A matter of ones species does not denote whether someone is worthy of help and kindness. Humans are just as capable of atrocities as youkai. Sesshoumaru-sama has given me no reason to think ill of him, though he is certainly formidable and not to be taken lightly. As well, when asked to train the Shikon Miko, one does not say no." Fumiko admits, voice serious but never losing her warm smile.

"I'm glad to hear that. You're probably tired from travelling here. Is it okay if we begin training tomorrow? I have lessons in weapons and self defense in the mornings until lunch, would it be okay if we had afternoon lessons until the kids own lessons are done?" Kagome inquires.

"Of course, my Lady. That would be wonderful, these old bones certainly don't enjoy early mornings quite like they used to." Fumiko chuckles.

"Great! That's perfect. And, if you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask. If anyone gives you any trouble, let us know. Right, Sesshoumaru?" Kagome turns to me, eyebrow hitching slightly.

Nodding with a minuscule smile, "Indeed. Feel free to roam the gardens, but I must ask that you keep to the guest wing and dining hall."

"But of course, my Lord. I thank you for this opportunity and look forward to beginning tomorrow, my Lady. If it is acceptable to you, I believe I will go rest until dinner." Fumiko responds as she stands, bowing. Kagome and I both nod to her, waiting to speak until after she has left.

4/5/21 a/n: miko teacher acquired!