Rogue

Open Mind

The strong and crisp scent of hay flooded his nostrils, reminding him of his days observing cattle in their domain. His body loosened further, toes sprawling apart slightly as the titan gave way to a small stretch. The creature's chin dipped into his collarbone as his arms extended before him, spine curving slightly inwards as every ounce of tension escaped his frame. Rogue's ear and nose twitched before onyx lids lifted slowly to reveal his drowsy emeralds. Routinely, the beast yawned, tongue curling as he rose to sit upon his elbow. For a moment, Rogue found himself staring out into the spacious barn, noting the silence. The titan then turned his attention to his side to check on the status of his little ones only to discover their absence. Instinctively, Rogue sat up further, and ran his fingers gently through the fluffy sea of hay as he rumbled in worry. Unsuccessful, the titan sat up fully and scanned the barn, noticing how it was void of any soul except for his - the reason for silence.

"AAARRNNIN? NNIIKKAASSSA?" Rogue called, no witness to answer. "AAARRRNIIN! NNNIIIKK -

However, he his halted his pleas.

Rogue dipped his head, peering down at his hands draped in his lap. The previous day's events and teachings began to replay in his head, allowing him to recall the storm of emotions and constant limits and truths. Rogue then lifted his head and sniffed, detecting the scent of fresh bread and other human foods coming from the castle that served as the flying humans' hive, indicating that his little ones were likely indulging on a meal that they had called 'breakfast.' The titan remained seated, staring off at the cracked door that revealed the early morning light of twilight. Rogue sighed, steam flowing from his maw as he returned his attention to the strips of hay. As much he wanted things to be as they were, he couldn't have his wish. He couldn't keep his little ones from doing what they wanted, that would be cruel. Even some of the animal babies in his forest left the nest every once in a while. Of course, he could still have some alone time and fun with his two adopted babies, but he didn't want to get them in any trouble with the pack's laws. At first, he had been alarmed that his little ones had run off again without him and had not bothered to come sit with him for their meal, but then he realized that both Armin and Mikasa were merely just being considerate to his own natural schedule with the sun. Ever since they had reunited with one another, he had been naturally watchful and concerned nearly every second. He did not want to lose them again, but he couldn't deny them any freedom. He could still be protective, nurturing, funny, and even playful just as long if he wasn't overly possessive to the point where he would snarl if anyone he hated got close to his babies. If that were the case, then he would be just as bad as -

Rogue stopped, brows sinking as he thought further. Levi. Was the story that Petra had told him true? Could she possibly be right? If the tale was, it explained much of the Corporal's behavior - perhaps including the man's dry personality. It was alarming to think that Levi was like him as far as a state of mind and their background. The only thing that was different was his personality, breed, and the vast difference in height. To think that Levi was protective of him was dumbfounding. The titan tilted his head and gripped his thigh in one hand, considering. Perhaps it would be wise to question the man to know if Petra's story was indeed the truth. The man was emotionally scarred just as he was. Maybe, just maybe, he could attempt to patch things up with Levi and get something in return - perhaps more time of merriment with his little ones and newfound family. Still, he could not help but to actually feel sorry for Levi. He would be doing him a kindness if he gave the man a chance as Petra had said. As much as he was anxious to do so, he would take the step.

The titan then yawned a second time, bending over on his knees and stretching his arms across the interior of his nest. He dipped his head between his shoulders, exposing his naked nape as he arched his back to pop every joint and muscle on his posterior. Rogue then returned to his seated position to continue his watchful observation. The titan glanced back to the door, ears pricking forward in wonder. All of the flying humans, except for a select few of the unfamiliar variety, were away in the castle - leaving him to his own devices. He blinked, although he was unsure about what the schedule for the Scouts was, he knew that he wasn't given a single order as of yet. Rogue sniffed again, still registering that the pack was inside. As he sat, a familiar feeling of boredom washed over him - itching for something to do. Rogue's greens then landed upon the opposite corner of his nest - a vacant spot. The titan then carefully maneuvered himself across the barn to crouch before the little corner. Naturally, Rogue quickly dug a basin in the hay until he reached the dirt floor in the barn. Now that he was in a new home, he felt the need to explore on his own and begin a collection. In the Scout's territory, there was bound to be lots of things worth a closer look and to stow away for safekeeping. Rogue nodded, yes if he found anything to treasure he would put them here and bury them as his own secret stash.