Without Jaken, Sesshoumaru's return was no longer a celebration. The lack of squawking was appreciated, albeit strange.

Rin met him with an excited smile, the kit with a hesitant wave.

From his brother, he received nothing but glares and grumbles about where he'd been and how long he'd taken.

The monk and the slayer bowed slightly.

Their acknowledgement meant little, save Rin. To her, he graced with a pat on the head.

However, it was the joy in the miko's aura, mixed with her soft but honest 'welcome back' that had him wondering about the true meaning of pack.