newtralize | The End Of Love

[ To see the man redden as he does it something to behold. It certainly hadn't been his intention to fluster him but he buries the twist of his stomach at the thought of having caused it. No need for secondhand embarrassment now. At least that's what he told himself.

The words working themselves up to continue his compliment falter, landing flat on his tongue when the other starts to dig under his collar, fishing for something. At this point, having neither accepted or rejected the offer, Percival is convinced the other is a mute of some sort—surely words at this point would have been easier. ]

What is it, [ He leans in slightly, his hand reaching out to tip the locket to get a better look at what he's motioning to. The lightbulb going off over his head is almost visible. ] Ah, [ Percival exhales, standing up straight again. ] Your brother, I assume? [ He holds his breath, shaking his head gently. ] As I said before, we need you here. [ His pause and clenching of his jaw is just enough to worry. ]

If that means bringing him with you, then I'll find him a place too. [ It's the wrong hand to offer for a binding handshake but it'll have to do, being his only one. ] Agreed?

[Words would most definitely be easier! It's too bad that he can't seem to get himself to form any words of any sort. And he really did try. It's just a very difficult hurdle for him to get over.

He earnestly shakes his head at the question. His brother, Theseus. He loved his brother quite a bit and he refused to be away from the other. That, and because the other was basically a rock of some sort to him. Their presence was comfortable and they calmed his nerves, which always felt frayed.

Newt studies the other for a moment. He knows he should shake Percival's hand, but the other's jaw seemed so tense...

He reaches out to gently put a hand on Percival's jaw. As though wanting to help soothe the other in some way.

Oh. He really should keep his hands to himself. This is why he also gets into trouble.]

[ It doesn't faze him, the lack of words. Percival has seen all sorts of people come and go, but while this one is kind and silent so it's a welcome pace to the ones who were always bitter and angry. Though he has to admit it makes it a hair more difficult to communicate.

Regardless, the other was at least clear on his part. Yes or no questions might be their best bet from here on out. But, ] A brother. All right, [ He nods. That was workable... they almost always needed help with one thing or another.

Percival's mind is still partly distracted, trying to think of all the positions they had this brother could have, and hoping he's a little more talkative than the one before him.

Distracted enough that the hand—when it passes his, as gentle as it is—startles him some. Goosebumps flitter down his neck to his shoulder, leaving him a little slack-jawed, eyes searching. ]

I— [ Percival swallows, lifting his hand to feather over Newt's, not holding nor pushing it away. ] Then you'll stay? [ Words start, almost stumble in his mouth before he clarifies it clearly: ] With the troupe.

[Newt lets his hand drop back to his side after a moment or two more; not wanting to touch the other longer than necessary. They might become uncomfortable with him if they weren't already and he wasn't really the type to force his presence on others anyways.

When the other asks him if he'll stay, he thinks about it for a moment longer.

Somewhere for both of them to stay and have food. It really didn't matter to him how much work he would have to do for it.

He gives the other the most gentle of smiles and nods his head at the other.]

[ Much to his surprise the touch wasn't unwelcome. In it's absence he almost misses the warmth but pushes the thought away. Some people are simply more touch orientated. Usually it's in hugs, proximity or shoulder and arm taps, but. Everyone is different.

When time ticks on again Percival does well to hide his worry, and it immediately melts away to something very relieved. ] Excellent, [ Is his easy, warm laugh. ] My offer still stands—a hot meal and bath. [ He pauses, but to raise his hand as if to cut off the other before he can disagree. ] For your brother too, of course.

[ Turning to his side Percival points to the green wagon he came out of at the start of all this commotion. ] That's where I stay. When you both come back with your things, come find me. [ He looks back to him with a gentle smile. ] I'll make good on my word, and we'll have a place set up for you by then.

[The sound of Percival laughing was something enchanting to him. It was a rich sound that made his heart flutter. To him, who struggled to utter a noise, the sounds of others was somewhat alluring. Something about Percival’s laugh was particularly alluring to him. A wonderful sound that he hopes to hear more of in the future.

But his attention is brought back to the promise of a meal and a bath. While the other was wonderful; it had been a long time since either of them had either things. Newt wouldn’t lie that the sounds of it didn’t sound incredible at the moment. He offers the man a bright smile and a polite bow before he’s scampering off.

It wouldn’t do him good not to make either Percival or Theseus wait and he had great news for Theseus.

Percival doesn’t have to wait long for Newt to return with his brother. Neither of them had much in terms of personal belongings. They didn’t really have any other than some extra clothes, but all their stuff fit in a single sack they shared. Merely a reality they accepted. Had to.

Theseus was a smidge taller than Newt (impressive since Newt was already so tall). His hair was darker and less curly, but the two had an uncanny resemblance.

The quieter of the two gently knocks on the door of the wagon that Percival had pointed out to him and waits for an answer.]

[ There's much to do once Newt leaves—paperwork to gather (though he knows he won't get to it straight away), another wagon to set up for their new crew, and of course the bartering for meals and hot water. The latter was a loftier affair, as the show was newer and town and things a bit tighter until the crowds rolled in.

By the time Newt an Theseus return to camp, however, Percival has these things well in motion and mostly ready for their arrival. In fact, he'd only been in his own camper for a short time before the knock. Truthfully he doesn't expect the pair so soon and the surprise, not unwelcome, is clear on his face. ]

Well, [ He smiles down to Newt. ] Welcome back. [ While he notices the one bag between them, Percival doesn't make a fuss beyond it. Others have joined them with the same; it would change with time.

Turning towards the shorter of the two, Percival keeps his smile and offers out his hand. ] Good to meet you, I'm glad you could both could join us.

[When the other smiles at him, he immediately looks down at his feet with the shyest smile and running his hand through his hair absentmindedly. Of course, Newt's actions weren't loss to his brother and the other seems rather thoughtful of the situation, but didn't say anything on it.

While Newt was completely silent and shy, Theseus was nothing like his younger brother. Theseus was boisterous and charismatic and much more outgoing.

Theseus introduces them to Percival; a small elbow jab at Newt as he jokes that he's sure Newt didn't give the man his name in the first place (which isn't wrong). Theseus and Newt were their names. Theseus doesn't give them their last names. He knew what it was, while Newt didn't, but it didn't matter what their last names were. They were orphans after all.

The pair weren't exactly twins, but their relation was uncanny. Newt's hair was fairer and redder than his brother, whose hair was darker and browner. They both were pretty pale with a plethora freckles. Theseus wasn't short by any means, but Newt was still taller by a smidge. They looked like they hadn't had a proper meal or a bath in a very long time, but there's a certain amount of life still in their eyes despite whatever hardships they were experiencing.

Theseus was looking around curious, seemingly interested in their new setting. Newt was looking down at his hands quietly.]

[ To learn that the other brother wasn’t the same as Newt was, immediately, both a blessing and a curse. Communication with the younger had been slightly taxing in his guessing, but it was more so to hear endless jabber. Theseus, he knew, would have no trouble fitting in here with all his outward charm and wit.

How similar the brother were was astounding. Had it not been for the slight differences in their appearance, he could have easily assumed they were twins. A faint thought wonders if their ring leader wouldn’t try and fit them into that later on, if he were so inclined. There are other more important things to focus on at current, however. Like seeing to their newest members.

Percival stands, arm on his hip as he stands beside Newt and watches Theseus explore nearby. After a small sigh and shake of his head, he turns to look to Newt, a softer and more casual smile donned. ] Theseus seems plenty occupied looking around. What about you? That meal and bath are still on the table, if you’d like to before settling into your wagon.

[ His pause comes with a faint chuckle. ] I don’t mean to push it, I just want you both to feel comfortable here and I can’t think of a better way right off the bat.

[Despite their similar appearances; Theseus was obviously much more outgoing. Not any more or less inquisitive, if the way that Newt carefully looks around was any indication. Just that Theseus was much more obvious about his observations versus the quieter Scamander.

Newt looks away from his surroundings to look at the other. His eyes brighten a smidge and he seems to light up at the idea of a meal. A bath was nice too, but Newt had grown so used to filth that it didn't bother him too much. Food, however. It has been so long since he had a meal.

Though, maybe it would be better to clean up before eating.

Still, Newt nods shyly. As though he was scared for asking too much by accepting. Even if it was being offered to him in the first place.]

[ It was, at the very least, amusing to see the differences between the two—as whelming as it was to see the older of the pair flit around excitedly. Truthfully, it was refreshing to see someone with such enthusiasm. Somehow it only made him more curious about the younger and his silence.

Seeing Newt light up as he does though distracts Percival a hair long enough to smile something soft. He nods, glancing back to Theseus. Surely he wouldn’t mind getting a bite too. ] Well, there’s nothing worse than exhausting yourself bathing on an empty stomach.

[ It wasn’t said as a dig, or a snide remark on the brother’s appearances, but sympathetically. Percival understood, for as well off as he appeared to be. ] Let’s get you fed. The baths should be ready by the time you’re finished, anyway. [ He turns his head to Newt again with a small nod, motioning for them to walk. ] This way. Theseus! We're grabbing something to eat.

[Theseus is quick to join Percival and Newt at the mention food. As if either of them would say no to a meal when they've been living off scraps and who knows what else. It's probably rather lucky the two of them are relatively healthy other than being malnourished.

The older brother seems to happily chat and ask questions to fill the space. Newt contently is quiet as he listens while Percival leads them to where everyone takes their meals.]

[ Percival answers the questions in stride as they make their way to a tent somewhere in the middle of all these wagons. He makes introductions in passing, promising a better meeting for everyone once they've settled in proper; besides that, everyone was busy setting up for the upcoming show. ]

We more than likely won't have either of you participating for a few more towns. Just until you get your legs here, [ He smiles kindly. ] Not that I think you two will have any issue taking root.

[ When they reach the tent he pulls open a flap for the pair, and only then does the smell of food fully hit them: the bread, freshly baked, and stew simmering in large kettles over crackling fires. Some workers are still dicing up vegetables, meat and herbs for pots not started and the long tables only have a few people taking their lunches now, but they all look at the trio walking in.

He follows in after, leading the brothers up to a stack of bowls and spoons, motioning with his hand. ] Help yourselves, eat your fill. We don't ration first day arrivals, but after it's three square meals a day. [ Turning some, he points to the corner display with peanuts, almonds, pretzels and cotton candy. ] Left over concessions are first come, first serve.

[Newt immediately shies behind his brother and Percival when some turn to look at them as they enter. It's probably quite surprising that the man who easily could tame a wild tiger balks so easily to people.

Theseus, is of course, quick to grab a bowl and fill it so he can start eating. Newt is far more reserved and seems to take a respectable amount even though the other says they aren't rationed. He does eye the brightly colored sugar; taken by the different colors that cotton candy comes in.] Thank you. For the food.

[He seems more than content with his bowl of stew and single bread and sitting even on the floor. It's almost as though he was trying to be as minuscule as possible. To blend away and not be noticed. Instead, the quiet man seems to watch everyone else with a careful eye; seemingly intrigued by what others are doing.]

[ Surprising is an understatement. For a man willing to walk into a tiger’s cage, though what he perceives to be mute, he didn’t expect him to be as shy as he is. But they barely knew each other and Percival is sure there’s plenty more to learn as the days go on.

To see them finally get something to eat is a small relief. The pair nearly looked withered and he wondered if they would want to eat. A part of his still wonders if they’ll be able to keep it down. That was why they didn’t ration straight away: they might be able to eat better later. He’ll have to check in again. ]

It's no problem, we don’t want anyone going hungry. [ He watches Newt as he takes his food and sits... on the ground. Curious. Far be it from him to tell him how to act if this is how he was comfortable. ] Right, [ Clearing his throat he looks back to Theseus with a smile. ] You boys get your fill and come find me after. We’ll get you cleaned up, some fresh clothes and give you a tour if you’re up for it. Sound fine?

[It's a little bit before Percival is approached by Newt again. Theseus is nowhere to be seen, but Theseus was far more social and charming and acquainting himself with everyone while Newt was more than happy to be a wallflower and watch.

The sound of a bath of any kind was alluring though. A comfort that they rarely could gain access to unless one was willing to jump into the ice cold river. No fool would ever consider it when living out on the streets though.

The younger man gently tugs at Percival's sleeve to get his attention before letting his hands drop back to his sides as he looks down at his feet.]

[ Coordinating an entire troupe was never easy, and though he had only fairly recently taken on more responsibility, he was still adjusting. It’s good neither of the boys come to find him right away, because he isn’t at his caravan to meet them. In fact, when Newt does swing by, Percival had only been there a few minutes—just finishing with taking his laundry frown from the line.

The small bit of confusion that’s on his face when he turns melts away quickly when he sees just who is trying to get his attention. ] Newt, [ The smile takes some of the exhaustion away from his features. ] Here, hold on. [ He holds up a finger as he heads into his trailer.

When he comes back a few moments later he offers up a bar of soap, boxed and unopened. ] It’s the one thing we don’t offer new folk. Please, consider it thanks, for helping Tetra.

[He's taken aback when the other holds out the box to him. He carefully takes the box from the other as he examines it; fingers running over the cheap material that houses it. He doesn't remember a time where he got to be clean. All he really remembers is the dirty streets and the feeling of being hungry.

Newt gives a deep bow to Percival, obviously doing his best to convey his thanks to the other. And perhaps that bow means more than just a bath and a bar soap. It would be a lie if the two brothers probably didn't see much of a future getting by on those streets and now they now had much more to look up to.]

[ Though he had been lucky in his transition in his life before and then into the circus Percival had been around long enough to see all manner of conditions people had come in with, and he had a keen enough eye to see who people were. Even if Newt hadn’t been so gifted with Terta, the brothers were both the kind and hardworking sort. He’s sure he would have offered them a place here regardless.

So he smiles when Newt bows, a small exhale falling from him as he takes the last step off his wagon. ] You’re welcome. [ Reaching out, he places his hand on the other’s shoulder to get his attention. ] Come on, I’ll show you where to go. It’s not much to look at but the water will be warm.

[ With a pat he starts off into camp, back towards the animals. ] You’re good with tigers, but what about elephants? [ He smiles over his shoulder. ] They like to try and mess with the curtains around the tubs.

[The younger man flinches a little when the other touches him. It's nothing about Percival, but merely just a certain foreignness with strangers in his personal space. He relaxes though and he lets Percival lead him to where to get washed.

His face lightens up at the mention of elephants. Newt had always been fond of animals and he also seemed to just have an affinity with them. He had never interacted with an elephant before, but he also hadn't interacted with a tiger before now either.

He would like to see said elephants and there's an extra hop in his step as they walk; clearly excited.]

[ Another smile settles on him at the enthusiasm Newt displays. ] I suppose if you want to meet them you should before you get cleaned up. [ It was easy to see that was what he wanted. Hopefully the delay doesn’t chill his bath much. It shouldn’t, he thinks.

Through their walk Percival tells him of their elephants—Jenue, their oldest and “matriarch”, Bem, a sassy young adult, Oya, her much calmer younger sister, and their youngest: ] Tene. She’s the most rambunctious, a little over a year old now. [ The thought seems to steal Percival away for a moment before he adds: ] Sweet as could be. Born here at the circus, [ With a smile.

They’re at the baths not long after, and there’s some faint noises to be heard and some heavy steps to be felt as they make their way through the curtain. In an enclosure that seems oddly roomy for 3 adult elephants and a calf, the littlest one trumpets at the sight of guests and runs over, her trunk waving wildly. ] There she is, [ Percival chuckles as he approaches the bars, sticking his arm through for her wrap around.

The other elephants make their way over in their own time, ears fanning slowly. While they’re happy to see Percival they’re more interested to meet this new one beside him. Their heads lean over the bars, trunks reaching out to investigate Newt. With his arm occupied with Tene, Percival looks over to the other. ] They won’t hurt you. They’re just curious.

[Newt has completely forgotten about the bath and seems to immediately just keep following the other to the elephants. He didn't even make a side glance at the setup. The ginger just seemed enraptured with meeting the creatures. He'll have to be sure to commit all the animals to memory. Their names and everything about them.

If Newt was worried about them hurting him, it doesn't show. Instead he quickly comes close to the bars and raises his arms up at them. As though letting them gain autonomy to lift him.

Which, well, is exactly what happens. Hopefully Percival actually doesn't get too spooked when Newt lets one of the elephants lift wrap their trunk around his arm outstretched to lift him off the ground. He doesn't seem worried at all though. Newt only looks giddy like a child who has gotten a new toy.]

[ The actions have Percival a little alarmed—but really, what should he have expected from a man who willingly walked into a tiger’s cage? It shows on his face some, though it melts away with a soft laugh at seeing how gently Newt’s lifted up and over the bars. ] Oya is the one holding you, [ He tells in time to have another elephant stick her trunk in Newt’s face before messing about in his hair. ] And that’s Bem.

[ Jenue makes her way around the sisters, to the other side of Oya, so that she can get a good look at the newcomer too, using her nose to squeeze at Newt’s arm and pinch at his shirt. ] Okay, [ He mutters to himself, petting Tene’s nose so that she’ll let go. Once she does he squeezes through the bars and gets between the semi-circle of elephants, looking up to Newt. ] I’m going to bring you back down here, [ He forewarns, carefully reaching to grab the other’s leg, guiding Oya to set Newt down next to him. ]

Just so they don’t fuss over you too much, [ Is the explanation he gives with an apologetic smile, his hand running over Oya’s trunk to release Newt. He still lets them investigate him, happily, though right behind Percival is a wee elephant pushing her way between the pair to greet Newt herself. ]

[Newt lets out a breathy little laugh. It's probably the most noise Newt has made since Percival has started interacting with him. The man seemed completely content being in the air or being accosted by the elephants as they curiously study the new person with Percival. It's also the most relaxed Newt has probably been too. The man just seemed to have an affinity for animals.

He shows no signs of being bothered by being fussed at as he immediately kneels down so he can hold his hand out to Tene. Newt's smile is warm and loving and happy.]

[ The sound is fluttering and reassuring. He really shouldn’t have been surprised at Newt for his reaction—of course he got along with the elephants. That Tene seems so taken with him only warms his chest. He chuckles when she headbutts Newt’s hand only to push forward and press her head against his chest.

She’s always been so shy with others, Which seems a silly thought when she so happily curls her tiny trunk over his head and wiggling on his face to inspect why his nose is so small! ] I’ve been the only one to feed her. [ The chuckle is small. ] I suppose I might have some competition now.

[ It’s light hearted, his smile tugging before it blooms when Jenue starts to welcome Percival. ] Hello, girl. [ The laughter is brighter as he pets her nose and she fans her ears at him. ]

The End Of Love

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