Chapter 22: Quandary
Sesshoumaru found himself in a conundrum. What was the miko to him? Did he truly want anything more from her, or was she simply a passing fancy? To what value would more of her company be to him, beyond idle amusement during his visits to Rin? Would she also wish to spend more time with him, if given the chance? Why did he even care so much?
Bokusenou had paused at his uncharacteristic outburst, scrutinizing him again, wooden brow pinched. After a long moment, the tree demon seemed to come to some sort of decision, his expression leveling out once more.
"One should not seek to interfere until One can be certain that the other seeks the same in return," Bokesenou intoned, his voice grave, seeking to drive his point home. "The Shikon Miko is not of our world, Sesshoumaru. You cannot approach her as you would another female of your court. The hanyou is protective, but he may be persuaded if One will only accede to his own brethen."
With that, the hounokiyoukai finally disappeared back into himself, leaving Sesshoumaru more confused than before he arrived. Time passed as he continued to stare blankly at the spot where his father's ally had been.
"Hnn," he finally scoffed at the tree, then turned to leave the forest, Jaken plodding docilely behind.