In Attack on Titan episode 2, Reiner is most likely referring to Ymir, subtly observing her movements and suspecting her knowledge of the outside world and potentially, her connection to the Jaw Titan. His guarded conversation with Bertolt reflects a growing unease and a calculated assessment of a perceived threat within their ranks.
Decoding Reiner’s Suspicion: The Clues in Episode 2
Reiner’s character, even in the early episodes of Attack on Titan, is marked by a subtle paranoia and a keen observational skill, honed by his experiences as a Warrior. While seemingly jovial and dependable, he’s constantly assessing threats and analyzing the behaviors of those around him. Episode 2, “That Day,” is pivotal in showcasing this underlying tension and directing our attention to the person consuming his thoughts.
Several key moments in the episode point towards Ymir as the object of Reiner’s scrutiny. Firstly, her unusual knowledge about the exterior world, particularly when discussing the stories of the outside, raises suspicion. She demonstrates a level of understanding that seems incongruous with the limited information available to those within the Walls.
Secondly, Ymir’s caring and protective behavior towards Historia, combined with her cryptic pronouncements, hints at a hidden agenda. Reiner, constantly vigilant for threats to their mission, would naturally be wary of such enigmatic behavior.
Finally, Reiner’s body language and tone during conversations with Bertolt related to Ymir are subtly suggestive. He avoids direct accusations but utilizes veiled questioning, probing Bertolt for his opinions on Ymir’s actions and motivations. He’s clearly gauging the situation and trying to determine if Bertolt shares his concerns.
Therefore, based on the context of the episode, Ymir emerges as the most likely candidate for Reiner’s object of suspicion. He doesn’t have concrete proof, but his soldier’s intuition, coupled with Ymir’s peculiar behavior, paints her as a potential variable in their meticulously planned operation.
Deeper Dive: Why Ymir?
Reiner’s suspicion stems from a combination of factors, beyond simply Ymir’s behavior in episode 2. His underlying mission as a Warrior from Marley necessitates a constant assessment of risk. Any deviation from the expected norm, any hint of outside knowledge, becomes a potential threat.
Reiner is under immense pressure. The success of the mission to retrieve the Founding Titan hinges on his ability to identify and neutralize any obstacles. Ymir, with her unusual knowledge and cryptic actions, represents a significant unknown.
Furthermore, the very nature of the Titan powers adds to the ambiguity. Reiner understands that Titan shifters can hide in plain sight, potentially working against them without revealing their true identities. This awareness makes him hyper-vigilant, leading him to question Ymir’s true allegiance. He’s essentially trying to determine if she’s a hidden Titan shifter connected to the outside world.
FAQs: Unpacking the Reiner Episode 2 Mystery
Here are some frequently asked questions that further clarify Reiner’s thought process and the significance of his suspicion:
FAQ 1: Was Reiner explicitly shown to be talking about Ymir in Episode 2?
No. The episode doesn’t explicitly state that Reiner is discussing Ymir. His conversation with Bertolt is shrouded in ambiguity, allowing for multiple interpretations. However, when considering the context of her behaviour and the overall narrative, Ymir is the most logical inference.
FAQ 2: Could Reiner have been suspicious of Eren in Episode 2?
While Eren is a significant character, he is not the focus of Reiner’s suspicion in episode 2. Eren’s initial anger and impulsiveness are seen as more of a nuisance than a strategic threat at this point. Reiner’s concern is more focused on subtle deception and hidden knowledge.
FAQ 3: What specific things did Ymir do that raised Reiner’s suspicion?
Her surprisingly detailed knowledge about the world outside the Walls, her almost obsessive protectiveness of Historia, and the general enigmatic quality of her pronouncements are the key actions that likely triggered Reiner’s suspicion.
FAQ 4: Why is Reiner’s suspicion of Ymir important to the overall plot?
Reiner’s suspicion foreshadows Ymir’s true identity and her role in the larger conflict. It sets the stage for future confrontations and reveals the complexities of the characters’ motivations. It also highlights the internal tensions within the Warrior group.
FAQ 5: Did Bertolt share Reiner’s suspicions about Ymir?
Bertolt, always the more reserved of the two, initially seemed hesitant to endorse Reiner’s suspicions. However, he acknowledged the potential danger and agreed to observe Ymir more closely. He often relied on Reiner’s judgement and accepted it in this case.
FAQ 6: How did Reiner’s training as a Warrior affect his perception of Ymir?
Reiner’s training instilled in him a heightened sense of awareness and a constant need to assess threats. He was taught to identify potential enemies and to be wary of anyone who might jeopardize their mission. This training heavily influenced his perception of Ymir’s behavior.
FAQ 7: What was Reiner’s primary objective as a Warrior?
Reiner’s primary objective was to retrieve the Founding Titan from within the Walls and bring it back to Marley. This mission took precedence over everything else, driving his actions and shaping his perception of potential threats.
FAQ 8: How did the other members of the 104th Training Corps perceive Ymir at that time?
Most members of the 104th Training Corps viewed Ymir as an eccentric and somewhat aloof individual. Her protectiveness of Historia was noted, but generally accepted as an odd friendship. Few, if any, suspected her true identity.
FAQ 9: Was Ymir aware of Reiner’s suspicion towards her?
Ymir, with her own secrets and hidden agenda, likely sensed Reiner’s unease. She was acutely aware of the scrutiny she faced and adapted her behavior accordingly, adding another layer of complexity to their interactions.
FAQ 10: Did Reiner ever directly confront Ymir about his suspicions in later episodes?
Reiner never directly confronts Ymir with his full suspicions in a clear, open manner. The tension remains largely unspoken, manifesting in veiled conversations and cautious observations. The lack of direct confrontation amplifies the dramatic tension.
FAQ 11: If Reiner knew Ymir was a Titan shifter, why didn’t he act sooner?
Reiner’s actions are driven by strategic calculations. Premature action could jeopardize the entire mission. He needed to be certain of Ymir’s intentions and assess the potential consequences of revealing her true identity. Also, she wasn’t holding the Founding Titan. He prioritised that above all else.
FAQ 12: Could Reiner’s suspicion have been a misdirection from the author?
While misdirection is common in Attack on Titan, Ymir’s eventual reveal solidifies her as the most plausible subject of Reiner’s suspicion. The ambiguity serves to heighten the suspense and keep viewers guessing, but the evidence strongly points towards Ymir.
Conclusion: The Architect of Suspicion
Reiner’s concerns in episode 2, though subtly expressed, reveal his character’s complexity and his crucial role in the unfolding drama. His intuition, honed by his experience as a Warrior, leads him to suspect Ymir, setting in motion a chain of events that drastically alters the course of the story. Decoding his motives and understanding his suspicions provides a deeper appreciation of the intricate web of relationships and hidden agendas that define Attack on Titan. This early seed of doubt grows into a significant branch in the narrative tree, demonstrating the careful planning and foreshadowing woven throughout the series.