newtralize | The End Of Love

[Percival laughs and Newt can't help but blurt out-] Oh. You have quite a nice laugh. A rather pleasing sound. [It's such an honest statement. One that completely lacked social skills. It obviously wasn't meant to be him flirting, but a genuine assessment of a man who didn't know any social etiquette. That you shouldn't really tell a stranger randomly that you found the sound of their voice to be fetching.]

Well, I don't know about that. Theseus was very adamant that I return to modern society. "You can't live out in the wilderness forever." Which, honestly, is a hilarious assumption to make. [Newt opens his mouth, but goes completely still as the other's hands dust his shoulders off. The casual gesture was a lot. It takes him a moment to find his voice again.] Yes, right. Thank you.

[Speaking of apartment. Newt finally looks around it. It's really like watching a child seeing something new for the first time. Which, honestly speaking, is probably all very new to Newt.] So this is all muggle technology. [WHAT DOES IT ALL DO. So much of it looks the same. Grey, shiny, metal. Does it all do the same things? Why would one need to own so many things then???]

[ The compliment catches Percival off guard. The laughter this time is light, quiet, and ends with a clearing of his throat. ] That’s very kind of you. But, [ He sucks in a breath and considers. ] Never mind. Thank you. [ No, they’ll talk about it later. It’s just them right now. slapping him with rules and social norms right off might leave him with a bad taste. ]

Theseus... means well. [ Percival nods slowly. For all his stubbornness, that is. Not that he could talk, but he admittedly had a little more finesse than the elder Scamander did. ] This is nothing like the wilderness, truthfully, but we’ll take this at your own pace. I’m not here to rush you. [ No matter what Theseus might have to say about that.

It’s when Newt has a look around he steps away to move the case somewhere slightly off to the side, out of their way but not hidden or on his couch. ] Yes, it is. [ When Percival turns back to look at his guest a grin tugs at his lips. ] You look like you have questions already.

[Newt's face breaks out into the shyest of smiles when Percival takes the compliment. The man can't help but feel very out of his element. He didn't know if he was overstepping or not in any capacity. Interacting with people just seemed so complex. Tedious.]

I know, but I always feel strongly that he doesn't quite listen to what I say. Despite usually repeating it repeatedly for the last few years. [Though, it sounds like Newt was used to it.] It's going to be slow. I apologize. I'm sure you didn't agree to babysitting me. [That's what this was, right? He was basically a child with a babysitter.

He curious runs fingers against smooth metals and plastics.]If I were to ask every question on my mind, we've be here all night. I'm not familiar with any of it.

[ A small knot Percival didn't know he had twisted in him unwinds at Newt's smile. It's shy, sure, but that's fine. It's a step in the right direction: comfort. If Newt felt safe here with him then things would go easier, and he's glad they're already finding their way to that.

Trailing behind him as he makes his way through the apartment, Percival keeps his arms loosely crossed at his abdomen. ] Slow is fine. That's why I'm here. It's my job to acclimate witches and wizards to this world. Typically I don't house them personally, but— [ He laughs faintly. ] You're right, Theseus can be rather insistent. [ He doesn't say it with any sort of annoyance or frustration at the situation, but realizing how it might have sounded he adds gingerly: ] Not that he twisted my arm. You're very welcome here.

[ He grins at Newt's continued wonderment. ] We have time. Maybe start with a couple questions, or we can start with a cup of tea instead. [ Stepping around Newt he walks into the kitchen, pulling out an electric gooseneck kettle and a basket, sliding it on the counter towards the other. ] Your brother sent over a few kinds you like, if you want to look through them?

Your job, yes. I don't think Theseus really detailed you the particulars about myself though. [Considering that Percival wasn't probably expecting a man to come out of a suitcase. He wonders if Percival knows just how little Newt is familiar with the modern world.

Newt follows him like a child and is already fascinated by the kettle.] Everything is certainly sleeker looking than I remember. My travel kettle is brass. It won't get damaged from the fire will it? [It isn't that Newt wasn't familiar with electricity, but that the idea of an electric kettle existing wasn't something he realized could be a thing.

Still, Newt seems pleased to browse through the basket. Something familiar and for him to enjoy. It's a good way to calm the nervous man down somewhat.]

No, [ Percival chuckles quietly. ] He was rather short on those, truthfully. [ Which was odd, now that he thought about it. Theseus was rarely short on words. ] Said you've been in the field for some time, researching magical creatures. [ Percival says it with intrigue and smile to match.

He keeps an ear over his shoulder as Newt talks, filling the kettle from a pitcher on the counter. Keeping a smile from his face as Newt thumbs through the tea after that question and he shakes his head. ] No, there's no fire. It's electric.

[ Setting the kettle down on its heater, Percival turns the handle towards Newt, showing him the display. ] They make it simple. On, then heat, [ He motions to the buttons. ] And you can set the temperature so it doesn’t burn the coffee or tea when it steeps.

Oh dear. [His brows knit for a moment. He isn't sure he should tell the other what the contents of his case were full of. Perhaps the other already knew. Otherwise...

Well, as long as none escapes, it should be fine. Right?] He really does like to be difficult about this all even when requesting a favor. I'm sure he thinks this is all in good fun. [He shakes his head a little.

He's much too entranced by the appliance to really think about his brother.] It just...knows? Muggles really do make quite extraordinary things.

[ Oh dear? Percival looks over to Newt in a slightly alarmed side-eye before looking to him fully. He even leans an elbow on the counter, hand under his chin as the other... talks? Explains his Oh dear? ] Are you not researching creatures, then? [ Theseus didn’t usually lie like that.

But, yes, the elder Scamander was fond of pulling on his chain to get the best of him. ] I suppose. I don’t recall him ever being so difficult. [ Percival laughs softly, looking over to the kettle as it starts to rumble from heating up. The fondness of memories, he guesses.

A small smile curls his lips as he takes in Newt watching the kettle. ] It’s programmed temperatures, it’ll only go to what you set it to. So, not fool proof but takes out the need of an external thermometer. [ Fancy, still. ] You’ll find a lot of things are computerized like that in this world.

No, I am. I am! [He's just not going to say how extensive that is. For now. Percival doesn't need to know...right? Haha.]

Well, he certainly enjoys to be quite ornery towards me. I guess that's what happens when you're related to him. [He huffs a little at that.] Count your blessings that he isn't your brother.

[Newt makes a bit of a face.] Computerized? What is that word? What does it mean? [Newt probably doesn't even know what a computer is nor anything verbiage attached to modern technology.]

Good, [ Percival chuckles some restrained, cheery thing at Newt’s insistence. ] I’m told it’s important work. That sort of project and person is always welcome here.

[ The laughter doesn’t leave him this time at Newt’s huffing but his smile more than shows his amusement about it all. ] Even if I weren’t I fear he might have henned me regardless, if it weren’t for my age. [ Sometimes being older had its advantages. ]

Uh, yeah—meaning like a computer? [ Percival pauses, hoping it didn’t come off as any kind of condescending. His mind reels a little and he pulls back his tone to something reassuring and kind. ] Have you used a computer before?

Well, there's many people who might say otherwise, but I appreciate and agree with that sentiment. [He has definitely heard criticism, but Newt had never cared for what others thought. Of him or his work.

Newt shrugs a little helplessly.] It would be just like him. Honestly, I think even your age might not save you sometimes. My brother has a tendency to be dramatic and unreasonable. [Though, maybe part of that feeling is because they were brothers.]

What's a computer? [His brows furrow and he looks even more at a loss.] I'm sorry if that seems like a rather dumb question. The extent of muggle devices I use is perhaps a few kitchen appliances...

That’s the way it’s always been with discoveries. It’s new, and people are frightened by what they don’t know. [ For the most part, they were good. Look at the merging of their worlds: it was working out for the better after ages of fearful opposition. ] You’re in good company here.

[ His laugh this time is louder, but warm and understanding in the way Newt frames Theseus. ] He is very much those things, yes. [ What a sight the brothers must have made in the same room. Maybe he’ll get to see it one day. ]

No, not at all, [ Percival shakes his head, smile still donned. ] A computer is high tech. It’s how muggles communicate and entertain themselves. They’re all linked together and contain… almost any information you might want to know. [ Pointing into the living room to his desk he continues: ] That’s a computer over there and, [ Digging into his pocket he pulls out his phone and sets it on the counter. ] This is a phone, but it’s also a miniature computer.

Honestly, if you aren't trying to kill me, you'll be better company than any of my recent human companionship. [Newt rarely interacted with people that weren't smugglers and traffickers. They usually preferred him dead than alive and being a nuisance.

Newt kind of looks at the other blankly.] That sounds a little terrifying doesn't it? Some device that can find any information you want. Rather invasive, isn't it? [Newt isn't sure he quite likes that idea. Also-] I thought phones were those devices you made calls with. The ones in the red booths. [This poor guy is trying so hard.] That certainly doesn't look like a phone. Why is it called a phone instead of a small computer? [Help.]

I promise you that is my farthest intention. But it does sound like you could regale me with a few stories. [ With what he knows of Newt and what Theseus has told him, he has no doubt those tales would be interesting. ] If you’re up for sharing, that is. [ There was no pressure and never would be.

To see Newt work so to put it all together... maybe he dove too quickly into the deep end. Well, better to shock and adapt than take too long with all the basics, right? Maybe not baby steps so much as a light jog. ] Because that’s what they used to be, at first. [ Percival tries to keep the grin to himself. Newt was trying so hard, it was... charming. ] They were just phones until we needed them to be more, and then they became... everything.

[ He takes his phone back into his pocket with a shake of his head. ] But I promise they’re not as intrusive as they sound. Not anymore, anyway. They’re very helpful—we’ll get there. Would you like to see your room before tea?

My brother would kill you if you tried. [He says that very honestly. Honestly, Percival could accidentally insult the other and Theseus would make his way here. Like some sixth sense involving Newt.

It's really very tiring.]

Muggles sure do like to make things complicated. [Newt huffs a little. Hopefully the other isn't offended by his words. He doesn't mean much of it, but it does feel complicated to him.] Everything? Merlin, I'd lose that within the day. [He would. Maybe if he thinks of phones like wands, then it makes sense. It would definitely find little use by the Brit though.

Newt looks taken aback though.] Oh- I- I didn't realize I was getting a room? I don't want to intrude or anything. My case really is fine enough without taking up too much space of your home.

I have no doubt, [ Newt is quiet honest about it and Percival believes him wholeheartedly, still he laughs at the idea. An overprotective sibling wasn’t something he had, and he finds the sentiment endearing despite the topic. ]

No, it’s— [ He pauses, considering. Hm. ] I guess it is, when you think about it. Still, it has a great deal of convenience. It’s like a wand, for non magical folk. The closest we’ll get to it, that is. [ The smile is a little bittersweet and he shrugs to distract from it. ] They’re expensive too, so there’s some incentive to keep track of it.

[ He shakes his head, flatly waving a hand at Newt. ] You’re not intruding. I had a spare, it was just collecting dust so I cleaned it out for you. Consider it a safe space for you to get away from things. Or, [ The laugh is light when it leaves him. ] A room to store your case in. Either way, it’s yours while you’re here.

Well, it's important like a wand from the sounds of it, but it isn't a wand. [This might come off pretentious, except-] Wands only channel something that's innate. Muggles had to build everything inside that right? I would find that much more impressive. Complicated, but impressive. [Newt has always been impressed by what muggles do to make up for their lack of magic.] Oh, dreadful. I really am gracious I've not needed one. [It probably drives Theseus a little insane how old fashioned Newt is though.]

Oh! I really- You didn't have to. [He knows Percival is busy that he really didn't need to clean a room up for his stay.] Thank you though. Your hospitality. It really quite nice of you to do this. [He rubs the back of his neck sheepishly.] I'll be happy to that cuppa first.

[ There’s a part of him that, despite knowing a bit of Newt’s nature, ruffles at the words. He knows, of course, a phone isn’t a wand; it was why he said like. The most he gives away is a breath but by the time he goes to speak Newt explains himself further—letting any prickled feathers lay flat again. His thinking was… sweet.

So there’s really no helping the tease: ] Oh, you might just need one. [ Percival smiles, letting the idea linger for a moment. ] In time, [ Is the reassurance. ]

You’re welcome. [ That smile turns devilish and teasing to something softer then at Newt’s thanks. ] I wanted you to feel at home here, or, [ He laughs as he turns to grab a mug of the cabinet. ] As much as possible. [ He stretches one arm to pass the cup to Newt as the other reaches for the soon to be whistling kettle ]. Any sugar, cream?

Oh no. Oh dear. I really would advise against it. I would lose it most definitely. There is multiple ways I would lose it. [Newt flushes a little, embarrassed.] It would be a waste on me and I imagine that they aren't particularly cheap. [And Newt was a very frugal man.

The Brit ponders over Percival's words for a moment. Home was never a place to Newt and Newt can't remember the last time he considered home being a place. Home to him was more like the constant sounds of creatures and the smell of earth. It was the soft fur under his fingers or a wet tongue or the slight bite from being scratch or bitten.

He's only pulled out of his thoughts at the sound of the whistle and Percival's question.] Oh! Uhm- If it isn't too much trouble, I'm rather fond of honey and milk in my tea...

Oh don’t worry, [ Percival counters, really unable to help the continued teasing. ] We’ll get you a mitten clip for it so you can’t lose it. [ A better idea hits him and: ] Or I’m sure we could enchant it, so it returns to your pocket if you walk away. If such a thing exists, [ He laughs airily. ] But yes, they can be very expensive depending on the model.

[ They’d find Newt something nice that didn’t break the bank.

But to the request of tea additives Percival pauses, setting the kettle down on the counter with a pause. ] I’ll have to get you some honey, [ He clears his throat before motioning to the glass dispenser next to the coffee press. ] I hope sugar will do for today? We do have milk, [ Comes the reassurance as he walks over to the fridge.

He makes a mental note to get more milk too, when he gets Newt’s honey later. It’s dangerously low, although definitely enough for a cup of tea right now. And maybe a half after, if he wanted more. He sets down the small jug and goes into a drawer for a spoon. ] I’m a terrible host, I apologize, [ The joke is light. ] I’m not used to serving tea.

Oh, yes. You can enchant things, but sometimes they get a little needy. Attachment issues and I already got one little fella who would not take too well to something else vying for my attention. [Newt says it so seriously too.] Expensive! Oh, no. I really don't think that's necessary. [He didn't want the other to feel obligated to paying for something for him nor did Newt think he had the means to afford it himself.]

It's really no problem. I don't want to impede anymore than necessary. [The other didn't have to offer anything, so he was grateful as is. He offers a small, shy smile.]

From what I remember, Americans are more partial to coffee. Unfortunately, I never had a taste for it. As for hosts, I wouldn't be able to say. Most of my recent interactions with people have been far less pleasant, so I think you're doing quite fine.

Needy? [ A little fella? Percival would rather like to see this thing that would get jealous of a piece of technology. Was it another piece of tech? Or was it’s Newt’s wand. Would it get jealous of sharing pocket space? ] Maybe we could make a trade, then. A phone for magic lessons. [ A pause. ] Mechanically speaking, of course. Not literally. [ A no-maj was a no-maj, even if he’d grown up alongside the magical community. ]

You aren’t impeding at all, [ Comes the reassurance with an airy chuckle. ] I’m was just vastly unprepared for someone partial to tea. [ A tease? Yes, in hopes to make Newt feel a little more comfortable here, and he hopes his smile after reflects that. ]

Still, as someone who grew up watching their parents host events, I can confirm for you—this is not my best. [ And a poor show of an impromptu sort-of tea party. ] I’m glad to hear you think it’s fine. I’ll make sure to do better next time.

The End Of Love

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