August 25th

The jostling of the horse did little to soothe Kagome's nerves; despite having enjoyed her conversation with the Daimyo and granted permission to undergo training, there were a few things which upset her during hers and Yuuta's trip.

The first was obviously related to the Financial Advisor, and after everything he did to Kaede's Village, as well as his threats towards Kagome and refusing her entrance to meet with the Daimyo, she had no other choice but to climb the walls of the manor. Fortunately, the Daimyo found her before the guards, and after half an hour of explanation regarding her journey to meet with him, the Financial Advisor faced serious charges, and in the end, was imprisoned for further questioning. It was lucky they had evidence to support their claims, a hand-written letter with the Demon Slayer's seal.

The second thing which unnerved her was the incident which happened in the Inn. Although they were given only the best, thanks to the Daimyo's precious wooden pass, which she and Yuuta returned to the servants the next day, there was one thing which bothered her. A man had snuck into the Hot Spring and had put his hands on her, and fortunately, Yui and Yuuta arrived, though a bit late. Whatever happened to him, Yuuta never said, only that he taught the creep a lesson he would never forget.

The last incident which happened to them began yesterday morning. After leaving the Inn, fully rested, Kagome followed the Daimyo's advise to visit the temple in Edo, and although she and Yuuta found it easily enough, the priestesses there were quite the opposite of what Kagome had expected. Just thinking about it pissed Kagome off.

The temple was positively beautiful with large gardens encompassing its front entrance, and because it was a sacred place which they trained and partook in their practices, for themselves and for the people, it was well guarded. So, guarded in fact, there was even a wall and gate placed up around it entirely, and if it wasn't for the Daimyo's pass, she and Yuuta would have never been allowed inside.

They were granted permission and they explored the area just outside the temple, their eyes viewing many servant women attending their chores and it wasn't long before they caught the eyes of many beautiful priestesses. To put it bluntly, they were nothing like Kagome imagined, at least from her memory of living on a shrine herself. Unlike the standard image, a woman dressed in a white haori and red hakama, they were dressed far more extravagantly, and if Kagome didn't know any better, she'd think they were entertainers of some kind.

Their long silken black hair came in an array of different styles with many colorful accessories adorning them from head to toe. Their clothes were not at all simple and held many layers, similar to nobles and it wasn't just that which threw Kagome off, but the colors which adorned them. The girls were wearing Seisos in blues, pinks, reds, whites, orange, yellows, greens, and the list went on.

If that wasn't eye catching, then certainly it must have been their makeup. Their faces were small and their complexion was just as fair as Kagome's, but their faces were slightly whiter in comparison, the finely pressed powder concealing every flaw noticeable. Charcoal aligned their small and slanted eyes, and red rouge painted their lips and cheeks, even their eye lids; they looked more like geishas or maikos, only their hair wasn't in the standard shimada hairstyle; after all, this was a much earlier time period and it was more custom to wear their hair down and past their waists.

Still, the very sight was something Kagome didn't expect, and neither did she expect such haughty attitudes. A priestess, in her definition, was someone who was respectful and forgiving, despite having a slightly higher status than a common villager. And yet, they did not treat Yuuta and Kagome too kindly, at least, not until they explained the reasoning behind their visit, but even that was minimal.

They laughed and mocked Kagome, judging her based only on her appearance and how she was nothing but a mere commoner. They questioned her family background and the residence of her village, and although Kagome could only give them small details, it was enough for them to turn up their noses.

Snobs. If there was one word which described them, that was surely it. These women down right exclaimed they earned their positions because of their family name, and that Kagome was wasting her time since she came from a poor village.

Despite treating them ruefully, they did tell her something quite interesting. If she were ever interested in becoming a shrine priestess, and officially, she'd have to take the yearly exams. Yet, even then it was not an easy feat, unless you had a successful family name to help you along further, that and money; normally, only two out of hundreds of women were selected depending on their scores and the rest normally returned to their families or became female attendants.

Despite this information slightly upsetting Kagome, she explained she wasn't looking for anything like high status or wealth; she simply wished to undergo training so she could help her village, even going so far as to deny payment for such services. To say this took the women by surprise was certainly an understatement, and they laughed at her.

"You won't get far if you think that will help you along in life little girl,"

"You'd rather help your village and travel the lands to help others? Do you even know what that entails? You'll likely die by the hands of demons if not by filthy bandits!"

"You are aware traveling priestesses no longer exist, right? In 1185, such priestesses lost their privileges and were forced into a state of mendicancy, meaning those poor temples and shrines they once held power over fell long ago. After so many years, only well to do families have survived."

"If you think you can help others simply out of the kindness of your heart, you won't survive. You'll likely lose your virginity before you've even started. The only way to survive is with money and power little girl. There is no other way. If you want to succeed, you'll need both."

Kagome sighed, her hands wrapped around Yuuta's waist during their travel, and she kicked her legs while she rode side saddle. "Do you think they were right, Yuuta?"

Hearing her question, he shifted his glance over his shoulder, noticing her forehead pressed against his back, her eyes hidden by her bangs. "What?"

She looked up at him, scowling angrily. "Those girls back at the temple. They said traveling priestesses lost ownership of their shrines and temples and became nothing more but traveling prostitutes before evidently disappearing!" She exclaimed angrily, her hands clenching his shirt tightly.

He blinked and mused on her words. Honestly, he didn't know much about priestesses besides the fact they trained rigorously, especially in well to do villages. "Well, it happened long ago. Doesn't Kaede have a sister?"

Kagome nodded. "Kikyou. Kaede said her sister was once head of their village and she also traveled across Japan helping others, but I never heard anything ill mentioned about her. Kaede said Kikyou was a true priestess and never tarnished her reputation. I find it hard to believe…"

"If I'm being honest, in all my years traveling, I've never once seen a priestess besides Lady Kaede. I've seen many monks and priests but that's it," He replied. "Perhaps, their words were not entirely false."

"But subjecting yourself into prostitution? I can't imagine it…" Maybe it wasn't all priestesses from humble backgrounds, but it might have been possible only a few did it, whether they wanted it or not. "Maybe … money was an issue." That was the only explanation she could think of that made sense. "But even our village is suffering. And according to those women, it costs a hefty amount to require their services."

"It could be, after those priestesses lost ownership of their shrines and temples years before, they've either settled in their own villages or have moved into much larger ones," He began, and it made sense. "Those girls weren't completely wrong when they said money and power will undoubtedly help you in your aim to become a priestess of high standing. However, you've made it clear you want neither money or power, and the road which you plan to travel will certainly be difficult, but I don't think it will be impossible Kagome."

"Thank you, Yuuta."

"Somehow, I have a feeling those women in Edo are different kinds of priestesses as compared to Kaede and Kikyou."

"You mean their gaudy outfits, accessories and their snobbish attitudes? Yeah, I can kind of see what you mean…" Kagome sarcastically remarked, rolling her eyes.

Snobbish? Yuuta merely shook his head. "What I mean is, they do not seem like the type to fight demons and you did notice their temple was well guarded. It seems they require protection for their services."

She blinked. "I thought there was something strange about that. They seemed so spoiled and pampered, I wonder if they could actually take up the bow," She mused briefly. "Regardless, I don't plan to go back there or take their exam. I'll talk with Kaede when we get back and see if she can train me the basics."

Yuuta nodded, smiling at her words. He was glad Kagome was different from those other women, and he believed she could do it. Beginning from the basics would only be the beginning for her, but he wondered how far she could manage along the way, especially when it came to demon confrontation. So far, on their journey, they were lucky not to have stumbled upon any issues, and he wondered if it was because they were still within the borders of the Demon Slayer Village and Edo.

"How much further?"

His gaze searched the path ahead, and he extended his arm. "We're almost there."

Moving away from his back, Kagome suddenly took notice of her surroundings and realized they were no longer on the road but riding through a thick and familiar forest. Leaning away from Yuuta, she noticed a tall and familiar structure just ahead, large wooden towers in the midst of it and an unnoticeable village hidden within.

With her ill thoughts pushed to the back of her head, Kagome's face alit with excitement. "The Demon Slayer Village!" She happily exclaimed, both her hands atop Yuuta's shoulders at this point. "Finally! I'm glad we're back. I hope Shippo is doing well."

The moment they arrived at the towering fortitude, two guardsmen noticed them, disappearing briefly, their shouts heard over the other and shortly after, the gates before them suddenly opened and they urged their horse inside.

The villagers noticed them, smiling while others held blank faces before turning away to resume their chores. A few village children remembered their faces, smiling and waving with excitement, and it was the distraction Kagome needed and she waved back.

Not long into their arrival, Yuuta pulled on the reins, and their gaze fell upon the main manor before them. Upon their return, a young servant girl noticed their arrival, and with a respectful nod in their direction, she quickly scurried up the steps and through the open shoji screen door. Soon after, the figure of a young and beautiful woman greeted them from the wooden entrance; no longer dressed in her slayer garb, Sango was adorned in a simple white and pink kimono with a green mobakama skirt wrapped around her midsection, a simple white ribbon holding her long brown tresses behind her.

A small child was cradled in her arms, Shippo's green eyes staring curiously at Sango before turning his small face towards her and Yuuta. There was a flicker of familiarity in his gaze, his long furry red ears twitching upon his head and soon, he stretched his small hands out towards them.

Relieved and also excited at the reunion, Kagome jumped down from the horse and rushed over to Sango, taking the small child into her arms gently. "Aww, did you miss mommy? Mommy missed you so much!" She cooed, rocking him in her arms with all the affection he deserved. "Were you a good boy while we were gone?"

"Welcome back. You've returned sooner than anticipated," Sango greeted, smiling warmly at the pair.

Looking away from Shippo, Kagome nodded. "A one night's stay in Edo is plenty enough. How was Shippo? I hope he wasn't a handful."

"Not at all. He was a bit unsettled after you and your husband left, but he's become content in his surroundings. The girls' have been keeping him occupied while you were both away."

Girls'? "Your girls'?"

"Yes. You've met them briefly before. Itsuko, Rui and Chiyoko."

Upon hearing those names, Kagome visibly stiffened. Those girls? The ones who nearly chopped their heads off two days ago? And Sango let them watch her son? Somehow, it didn't set well with Kagome, but the slayer didn't seem too concerned. "Oh … those three…"

"Do not worry. They've only showed the utmost affection for Shippo. I can assure you, he was in good hands," Sango assured, sweat dropping.

Even so, Kagome still didn't trust them, but she was thankful Shippo was alright. Feeling Yuuta's body slightly pressed against her side, she turned to him, a sneaky smile gracing her face.

"What?" Yuuta asked.

Holding Shippo close against her chest, she smiled almost gleefully, turning her body towards Yuuta, despite Sango's knowing smile and Yuuta's confused stare. "I bet you missed mommy a lot, but I bet you missed daddy the most," She replied, holding Shippo out for him to hold, his small hands reaching out to the older man.

Surprisingly, he took the child from her outstretched hand, and he held Shippo close, the small child staring at him with great affection. Kagome smiled, watching Shippo's curious hands touch the former bandit's face, his fingers pulling lightly upon his dark shoulder length tresses. "Aww, look at him. He missed you so much Yuuta!"

His face heated at Kagome's smile, and clearing his throat, he turned to Sango, lowering his head respectively. "You have our thanks for looking after him."

"Of course. I figured you would be back any day now, so I've had my men fix up one of our carts for the voyage back to your village. But first, let's go inside. We can talk there."

They were seated, knelt before an exquisite mahogany table, polished and shining, with trays of delicacies and warm tea filling the air. Sweet incense permeated from the farthest corner of the room, the shoji screen doors and furnishings ornate with pink and orange orchids. Lavish lavender pillows cushioned their knees, and as they bit into their food, they explained everything they endured since their arrival to Edo.

Sango listened, albeit surprised when she learned Kagome had riskily jumped the wall surrounding the Daimyo's manor and, in the end, met with him and revealed her plight for the village. The situation regarding Takeo, who'd swindled many during the harvest inspection, was not surprising. Even still, it was fortunate Kagome and Yuuta hadn't succumbed to prison or execution, despite the risk involved, and after learning the Daimyo would further investigate the matter, Sango congratulated them.

"I didn't think it would be that easy, but I'm glad we got to speak with him," Kagome replied.

"I told you it would be worth the trip," Sango smiled. "And with my father's help and the Daimyo's, I sense only good fortune will greet the village soon enough."

Kagome hoped so. "Thank you."

"Did you take in the sights of Edo while you were there?"

Yuuta nodded. "We did. It was far larger than what we're used to."

"I noticed that only the poor villages surround the outer edge of Edo while the rich live near the center," Kagome replied curiously. "Is there a specific reason?" Surely it wasn't because of status, right?

At Kagome's question, Sango mused. "It's like that in many large villages, I'm afraid. There's a fine line of discrepancy between commoners and nobility, as I'm sure you've noticed upon your arrival," She began. "In return for providing them sanctuary behind their walls, they must do their part to protect the people; usually, they are the first to die before those with power take up their swords."

Kagome gasped. "What? That's ridiculous!" When she realized her voice had risen, the two female attendants near Sango covering their mouths in surprise, Kagome lowered her voice. "I mean, that's just crazy. It's not fair to them. They should at least have the same protection as everyone else."

Sango nodded. "Indeed."

The door opened suddenly, a familiar face stepping within. It was Kohaku, and much like his sister, he was dressed in simple clothes, dark blue hakama pants and a long sleeved kosode with patterns of bamboo embroidered on the material. Upon noticing his sister's guests', he smiled, and took a seat beside Sango. "I heard you've returned from Edo. I hope it's gone well."

Sango nodded. "It went very well. They met with the Daimyo and he's currently investigating the matters regarding their village and the inspector."

Hearing this, Kohaku grinned. "That's great! I've heard it's not easy to request a meeting with him. Did he reward you with anything?"

"Kohaku, you mustn't pry."

"Oh, I'm sorry…"

Kagome shook her head, smiling from ear to ear. "No. It's alright. Actually, he allowed Yuuta and I to stay at the Inn in Edo. He even had his servants escort us on a palanquin as well." Riding on the palanquin, jostling at every turn and step, wasn't the most comfortable, but it was nice giving her feet a break.

"You mean the infamous Inn? I've never been there before, but I've heard it encompasses a large hot spring."

Kagome nodded. "It was nice." Some parts at least. The remainder of their stay was relaxing, except the incident where some pervert snuck up on her; the memory still unnerved her, but it was a new day, and she was sure she'd never see that creep again. "The servants were very sweet and the food was simply amazing. I honestly didn't expect the Daimyo to allow us a free night's stay. He really is a kind man, different than what I expected."

Hearing this, Kohaku nodded. "Although I've never met him in person, I've heard he is quite young and that many speak well of him. Did you know he has a fondness for literature and flower arrangements?"

Flower arrangements? No, she didn't know, but it wasn't like she had the time to ask about his personal hobbies. How did Kohaku know though? "I didn't, but it seems like a relaxing interest."

"I suspect it's likely the case since he spends most of his days in the manor," Sango replied, sipping her tea delicately. "Kagome, have you figured out what you will do?"

She blinked but on account of her knowing expression, her eyes widened and she fervently shook her head. "I gave it some thought, and I've decided to give it a shot. You and your father were right. I shouldn't carry on wondering what if when I can do something about…" She trailed off, realizing Kohaku was still in the room.

Noticing her hesitance, Sango smiled. "It's alright. Father has already informed Kohaku about the Sacred Jewel."

Relieved, Kagome went on. "I see. I brought the matter up with the Daimyo, about wanting to take up training with Lady Kaede. He seemed surprised but he accepted my decision. He pointed Yuuta and I in the direction of a large shrine in Edo which we visited earlier this morning," She revealed. "Although, it wasn't exactly welcoming."

Sango's eyes widened at this, her cheeks reddening suddenly, and she quickly averted her gaze. "Ah, yes … the temple. Well, I believe their services are quite different from what you intend to do, Kagome. Quite different…"

Her face reddened as well. "You mean … they're…" Those snobbish girls were selling their bodies? How could they technically be called priestesses?

Sango sweat dropped, despite her brother's confusion. "I'm afraid so."

And here those girls were giving traveling priestesses a bad name. They were nothing like how Kaede explained in her stories of her older sister. Somehow, she regretted even visiting the temple in Edo, but then again, she was glad she got a good look at something she didn't desire any part of. "Well you learn something new every day…"

Yuuta chuckled at this. "Indeed, you do."

"I'm pleased you've reached a decision. I'm sure it wasn't easy, but you made the right choice Kagome," Sango began. "Since the jewel has emitted a dark power inside you, and for how long I'm uncertain, it would be best to control it, perhaps even subdue it further than with those beads around your wrist. There's no guarantee how long that protection will last."

"You're right. For my sake and for everyone else, I have to do this. The last thing I want is for something terrible to happen," Her eyes fell to Shippo in her arms, snuggling against her warmth contentedly.

"Now that you've returned and with newfound thoughts, perhaps it would be best if we leave for Kaede's Village."

Kagome's head shot up at this. "Are you coming with us?"

Sango nodded. "While you were away, I had some thoughts to join father and the others and offer my assistance, in any way I could. Escorting you and your husband would be the first step in this task. I've prepared a wagon filled with water and food, enough to last us the journey back to your village."

"What about your village? Surely someone must stay behind to look after everything," Yuuta began, a delicate brow arched.

Before Sango could reply back, Kohaku suddenly turned his head, his expression surprised. "You're going with them? I want to come along as well."

"I was planning to leave you in charge while we were away, and it's a long journey to the village…"

A pout fell upon her brother's lips. "I would like to see Kagome and Yuuta's village. What if you need an extra hand? Besides, I'm already caught up on my training here. Please sister?"

The young woman almost sighed, but on account of her brother's persistence, she smiled warmly. "Very well. I'll see if Itsuki will manage things in our absence." Turning her gaze back to Kagome and Yuuta, her smile remained. "If you don't mind the rush, we should leave as soon as possible. After all, it will take us a matter of days to reach the village."

"It's alright. I wonder how the village is doing. I miss everyone," Kagome replied.

"In that case, let's head out!" Kohaku replied enthusiastically.

August 28th

A dreary gray sky loomed overhead, promising rain, she was sure. The wind was cool to the touch, and after traveling three days in sweltering heat with Sango and Kohaku accompanying them back to the village, Kagome welcomed the storm, her eyes closed as she smelled the oncoming rain approaching.

It was now well into Fall, with nearly two months left before the cold season, but instead of constant drought and heat, she would soon feel the bitterness of winter. There was no telling what she could expect in the coming months, only that it would be more difficult to find food and likely remain warm. As these thoughts weighed upon her mind, she thought back to the villagers in Kaede's village, their huts without proper doors and windows; how would animal hide protect them from the elements or even provide decent protection against invaders or wild animals? It was something to think about, perhaps even something she could bring up with the High Priestess.

Before setting out three days earlier, Sango had been kind enough to offer Kagome a new set of clothing. Riding side saddle in a kimono was hard enough, and since her kimono smelled of dirt and sweat since she left the village, she was thankful Sango was kind enough to give her something to wear, but she wasn't intending on anything more than a plain kimono.

The outfit was simple and more extravagant than she was used to wearing; it was a simple knee-length ivory kimono with various patterns of green and brown leaves with red, white and pink flowers embroidered into the soft material. The sleeves fell at her elbows and it hugged her body nicely with a multicolored red and white obi secured around her waist. It was comfortable and a lot easier to walk in than the standard kimono, and for that, she was thankful.

As the wagon jostled with each movement, Kagome leaned forward on her knees, looking out across the vast terrain, her eyes taking in the familiar trees and rivers. Turning her head, she saw the village come into view, and smiling, she turned to Yuuta beside her. "We're almost there!"

Kohaku's head moved up at this, and similar to Kagome, he also moved beside her, his eyes lighting with joy. "So, this is Kaede's Village. I hope father and the others are doing alright."

"I'm sure they're fine," Sango replied. "I'd say it's been five days since he arrived. I'm sure he and the others have gotten a lot done in that time span."

Squinting, Kagome noticed a figure of a robust man standing near the entrance of the village, his body facing away, and the closer they arrived, Kagome recognized the individual as one of Yuuta's men. Excited, she cupped her mouth and called out, "Akira! Akira!"

The noise certainly surprised the older man, Kagome visibly noticing him jump and turn towards their approaching horse and wagon. There was a slight pause as he stared, and Kagome called out again. Immediately after, it must have dawned on him who it was because he suddenly raised both arms, waving them, his voice loud and clear.

"Boss! Yuuta!"

"Akira! We're back!" Kagome shouted, waving her arms just as joyously.

"Boss!"

Before long, they finally arrived, Akira immediately bounding towards them eagerly to see them. As Kagome leapt off the side of the wagon, Yuuta following close behind, Kagome enveloped Akira in a hug, and he returned it.

"Boss, you're back! You were gone an entire week! We were sure you'd be gone for longer!" He cried, his arms strong and gentle around her.

Kagome laughed, patting his broad shoulder gently. "It's great to see you Akira."

"We were getting worried when you and Yuuta didn't return with the slayers and Suo almost took all the guys out to search for you, but the chief of the demon slayers said you and Yuuta went on an errand to Edo before coming back. But he wouldn't tell us what you guys went there for."

As he pulled away, his eyes glossy and wet, Kagome's smile softened. He really did miss them. Akira was the emotional one of the bandits, too soft hearted for his own good. "There, there, it's great to be back too. Everything is fine Akira. I'll explain everything later, but for now, I need to speak with Lady Kaede. Have you seen her?"

He blinked at this and mused. "Oh, Lady Kaede? She's … uh … she's around here somewhere… Where did she go?" He murmured to himself. "You would think for someone her age, she would stay put. She's always disappearing right and left."

Yuuta struck Kagome a knowing glance her way. "Who does that remind me of?"

Seeing his stare and teasing smile, Kagome smacked his arm. "We should greet everyone. Let's go!"

As Kagome pulled Yuuta behind her, Sango ushered the horse forward into the village behind Kagome and Yuuta, it wasn't long before curious stares fell their way.

"Everyone, the boss is back!" Akira shouted almost repeatedly. "The boss is back!"

The moment they stepped inside, there was a sudden commotion among the people, especially the women who were in the fields and the men who were working upon the huts. Since their departure, much had changed in the village. Although it had nearly been a week since they left, there were new huts erected and it looked like a new barn was being built just ahead.

"Hey, Lady Kagome is back!" Someone shouted.

"It's Kagome! She's returned!" Another followed.

"Boss!" A chorus of shouts followed immediately after, louder and more excited than most of the other villagers who had turned and approached.

Without warning, a stampede of barbaric and sweaty men ran towards them, dirt rising from their heavy movement, and unable to dodge what seemed like an attack, Kagome and Yuuta were soon crowded by the remaining bandits, each wearing relieved and excited expressions upon their faces.

All at once, they asked them questions, about the journey, the meeting with the chief and why they went to Edo. They were also cooing over Shippo, rubbing his head gently before asking about the child.

From the wagon, Kohaku couldn't help but blink and lean into his sister, both watching the scene in morbid surprise. "Sister, some of these villagers look like bandits…"

"Don't be rude Kohaku. They've had it rough lately."

"Boss, we're glad you're back. We were getting worried when you and Yuuta didn't return."

"Yeah, we thought something bad happened to you. Did everything go well?"

Kagome nodded, smiling at each and every one of them. They were like excited children and less like grown men. "Everything went well. Yuuta and I spent a day in Edo Village. That's why we were late returning."

"We heard you went there for an errand but you stayed behind Edo walls?!" Another asked.

"What was it like? I've never been there before."

"We were never allowed inside… How did you get past the guards?"

"Why did you go to Edo?"

She raised her hands, unable to keep up with everyone's questions, and to her relief, they settled down, their eyes wide as they stared almost impatiently. "Calm down. I'll explain everything later. But first, I need to speak with Lady Kaede. Do you know where she is?" Somehow, she was surprised she didn't see the older woman amidst the crowd of onlookers smiling back at her.

"Kaede?" One asked. "I think I saw her with those farmers…"

"No, last I saw her she was in the field with the chieftain."

"I was just with the chieftain a few minutes ago and he wasn't in the fields."

"Well, I thought I saw the old lady go into the forest of Inu …hashu?"

"It's Inuyasha you moron!"

"Oh yeah, I remember now. Yeah, I saw her go in there half an hour ago now that I think about it."

"Wait a minute … weren't you supposed to be with her?"

"Was it my turn to watch her today?"

One of the bandits face palmed. "You idiot. Well, we better go search for her then."

"Ye do not need to search any further. I'm right here," An elderly voice replied somewhere behind the grown men, and upon hearing her voice, they quickly stepped away, the old woman smiling welcoming to Kagome and Yuuta before sending the bandits a chastised look. "If ye are going to look for me, just turn around."

On account of finally entering into the village, Sango and Kohaku stepped off the wagon and together, they politely and respectively greeted the older woman.

"Hello Lady Kaede. We apologize for the sudden arrival. We hope you have been well," Sango replied, her head bent slightly.

"Quite well. Ye people have done much for our village these passing moons, though we've not much to offer in exchange for such kindness."

"Do not worry about it. We are glad to help," She replied back smiling.

Pleased by this, the High Priestess turned to Kagome and Yuuta, her eyes surveying the child sleeping in Yuuta's arms. "It's good to see ye have all returned safely. If I heard correctly, there's a lot ye wish to discuss with me, is that right Kagome?"

She nodded. "Yes."

Understanding, Kaede half turned. "Very well. We'll discuss ye journey in my hut. Lady Sango, Lord Kohaku, ye father is in the far side of the village helping with repairs. Please make ye-selves comfortable."

"Thank you," The siblings replied.

An awkward silence drifted through the hut, Kagome's eyes staring apologetically to the older woman seated across from her, and Yuuta who was seated beside her, smothered by the many bodies of the bandits seated uncomfortably within the small hut. It was clear they were excited to see them return after a week's disappearance, but she couldn't right out tell them to leave.

"Speak freely child," The older woman replied, quite unbothered by the many onlookers within.

Sighing, she gave her full attention to Kaede. It was better this way than repeating herself later on. "Right. After meeting with the Demon Slayers, a lot happened, as I'm sure Lord Shako explained when he arrived. The next morning Yuuta and I made our way to Edo to speak with the Daimyo and…" Kagome wasn't sure how to continue, but she immediately caught Kaede's surprised stare.

"So that was why ye went to Edo. I thought it strange when Lord Shako revealed this, but now I'm starting to understand. Did ye meet with him by chance?"

"Yes."

A noise fell from Yuuta's lips, his expression amused as he stared at Kagome beside him, his head shaking from side to side. "She was determined to meet with him despite the harassment in front of his manor. Never once have I heard such vulgar words fall from a woman's mouth, and if that didn't surprise me, she even went as far as jumping the wall."

Hearing this, all eyes fell on Kagome, her cheeks reddening as she smacked Yuuta's shoulder. Although Yuuta found amusement from their earlier endeavors, Kaede and the others were simply surprised as well as bewildered.

"Boss, you jumped the wall? How?"

"No offense Boss, but you're small and those walls are pretty high even for us."

Kagome shook her head. "I wouldn't have done it if Yuuta hadn't given me the idea."

"I was only speaking my mind. I didn't think you would actually act upon it," Came his reply.

"But it helped us in the end, didn't it?"

He sighed, nodding, his mouth turning up into a grin. "Indeed. She might look small and fragile on the outside, but this woman spits venom like you wouldn't believe. Kagome was bound and determined to meet with the Daimyo, even after telling off the guards at the gate."

"That's incredible boss. Nothing frightens you!"

"Great job boss! What happened after you jumped the wall? Yuuta, did you jump it as well?"

"Was the Daimyo nice? Did the guards catch you?"

There was a cough, the older woman clearing her throat, and almost immediately, the men fell silent, biting their lips anxiously. "So, why did ye see him Kagome? I can only assume ye informed him of our village's dilemma?"

"That's right. I couldn't just ignore it, and I brought the issue up with Yuuta during our travels. At first, he didn't agree it would be a sensible idea, but after what happened at the Demon Slayer Village, it was Sango who ultimately encouraged me to speak with him. I won't say I wasn't scared, but I'm glad I met with him. Lord Shako had me deliver a letter to him since I planned to reveal my plight concerning the village, and the letter contained information regarding Takeo's abuse swindling other villages with their taxes."

Kaede nodded, her eyes widening slightly at this revelation. "I see. I thought it strange the taxes were raised."

Whatever was going through the older woman's thoughts, Kagome couldn't be certain, only that it wasn't an expression of disappointment. "Well, you'll be happy to know the Daimyo took action immediately after hearing our story and Takeo will be investigated for his crime. The matter regarding those who were taken from this village will soon be solved, so all he asked is that we remain patient until then."

A smile finally graced the older woman's countenance; it was warm and grateful, that even Kagome couldn't help but return it. "For what ye have done Kagome, I truly thank ye. Never in my life would I have reached out like ye have, but ye surprised me. I must say, ye are an incredible woman. Most wouldn't have the confidence ye do, but ye have done much for this village than we deserve."

Kagome's eyes widened when the older woman suddenly bent her head forward, her body lurching further towards the floor, her hands flat upon the wooden floorboards. Kaede, the High Priestess, was bowing to her, and somehow, she felt this incredible urge to stop her, but on account of Yuuta's hand upon her shoulder, and his smile, accompanied by the entire room, Kagome smiled softly. Maybe now, after all their struggles, things would change for the better. This was only the beginning after all, the beginning of something new.