[Closed Log] Fireflies are stars that couldn't journey to the skies

[rustyhonesty]

WHO: The Shingeki Cast
WHAT: Firefly catching
WHEN: During November Event
WHERE: Solarpeak Beach
WARNINGS: inevitable talk of death, likely gore and other attack on titan basic content warnings, will add as needed.

Just Shingeki cast seeing appreciating fireflies and catching them in jars while bonding on various levels.

Comments

[hometown]

If Reiner chose to do so, he could answer Jean verbally. Or if not verbally, certainly with words. He's long since learned how to control his telepathy. He could give Jean a yes or a no; he could even try to explain some of what has driven him to escape into this form.

But things are simpler as a dog. Much simpler.

So Reiner doesn't answer with words. He shifts position, scooting to the side and stretching out, his back pressed to Jean's leg. Curling up beside his friend. Seeking comfort as dogs do: through touch and companionship.

[rustyhonesty]

Once Reiner shifts closer, Jean reaches a hand and scratches him behind his ears, like he would any of his own dogs. Then he gently pets him with long strokes.

He doesn't say anything, just makes sure to be there for him.

[hometown]

As Jean scratches behind his ears, Reiner is struck with the realization that there's a good reason dogs enjoy getting their ears scratched. The reason being: it feels fantastic. Like stretching after a long time spent still. Or, more accurately, having a friend scratch that one spot that even the most creative backscratching can't quite reach.

He gives a purely dog-like huff of approval, big head pushing against Jean's hand. Then Jean switches to petting him, long strokes down his side. Reiner finds his eyes growing heavier, his body relaxing.

Quiet half-whines rise unbidden from his throat, feeling perfectly natural. Though if Reiner were observing this from the outside, he'd say he sounds like an animal desperate for comfort—so much so that it doesn't know what to do with affection received.

[rustyhonesty]

It was clear to Jean that Reiner was a mess - and he couldn't blame him. He'd heard about the meeting with Marco and knowing how he reacted just to hearing he was in the same world... yeah, this is all valid. He had just gained an ally, too. There were probably a lot of things going on in Reiner's head.

So Jean kept petting him, occasionally switching between scratching his ears or chin and making long, gentle strokes in his fur.

Owning three dogs was very convenient when you needed to comfort a friend turned into a dog.

[hometown]

Reiner's half-whines continue for a time, occasionally giving way to approving huffs as Jean scratches a particularly good spot. He settles more comfortably against Jean's leg, pushing back against him in a clear desire to be as close as possible, the warmth of such simple companionship further easing his mind.

Soon enough, those comforting pets cause Reiner's eyes to close, his breathing gradually evening out. By the time his paws start twitching, it's evident that he's fallen asleep at his friend's side.

[rustyhonesty]

Jean notices that Reiner's breathing is a lot more relaxed and even, so he continues petting him a little slower for a while, before just resting a hand on his side, letting him get the much-needed rest. He'd be there when Reiner woke up, too, so he didn't need to be alone.