prohibitions | When love became an act of defiance

[For a moment, Theseus looks slightly abashed, and his mouth opens so that he can give Cain his name, but he immediately closes it when the other man waves his hand away. Guess it doesn't matter too much to him? If that's the case, Theseus doesn't see a need to give out that piece of information.

He's here to talk about Abel. So, the more they talk about him, the better.

After all, the Auror is still suspicious about Cain, figuring that he's still hiding information from him. There's something he's not telling him... but without any real proof, he can only answer his inquiries, although his question does give him pause.

Was he unhappy?

Theseus never thought about that. He and Abel weren't close, so it would be a little more difficult for him to notice such a thing, but...]

I... I don't think he was. [Theseus frowns slightly at himself, noting the uncertainty in his own answer.]

[Ah. He definitely is being mean. It's not really Theseus' fault or anything and they didn't interact much. He recognized Theseus and knew the Auror by name, but that was the extent of it.

Cain shrugs though.] It was really just a question. Maybe he was unhappy and left. [That's exactly it, but he's just a nobody not involved with this.] Or perhaps there was some foul play, which seems to be what you think since you've been accosting me in this back alley about some bloke you assume I might have involvement with.

[Where Abel had been polite and kind (on a surface level), Cain was far less accommodating with snappish replies and sass.] Speaking of, what type of connection do you even think I have with them? [The hilarity of this is he's pretty sure that he has asked the other more questions than Theseus has asked of him. He does guess that Theseus is still fairly young and new.]

Even if he was unhappy, I don't think he would just up and leave without telling anyone. That would be irresponsible of him.

[Surely, the Ministry would've just let him go if he wanted to quit, right? Although, as soon at that thought crosses his mind, Theseus grimaces slightly, knowing that things aren't always so simple. It's possible that they would just keep tabs on Abel, even if he moved to a different country.

On the other hand, he's made everyone worried about his well-being. Of course, the possibility that something actually terrible happened to him is still very likely, just Theseus never imagined that something else might be behind his disappearance.

All of this makes the normally confident British man a bit more awkward.]

Erm...

[It's obvious that the young Auror isn't quite used to people being so snappish with him either. He's definitely still inexperienced with these sorts of missions, despite being a war hero, as they're very different than being on a battlefield. Not to mention, he's been thrown off for a bit after being questioned like this.]

Your sudden appearance in this bar coincides with Abel's disappearance. And so far, that's the best clue I have.

[...Maybe not the best thing to admit, but too late.]

Perhaps, but then we'd be talking semantics and my smoke break really doesn't have that time to get into the semantics of what is responsible and irresponsible. [He smiles easily before taking a drag.

He studies the other carefully, though he gives the air of nonchalant and disinterest.

Theseus was still young and dumb and certainly wasn't prepared to handle him. It makes him wonder why the other was the one out here and possibly not someone who had been on the job longer. Either Theseus was very determined to find him and had wanted to do this or the Ministry wasn't trying that hard to bring him back.]

Ah. [He raises an eyebrow.] Are you implying that I am him? [He won't deny that it wasn't a terrible lead to start on, but he also can't say that it isn't a particularly good one either.

Though, he feels a smidge bad because Theseus was right on the money in reality.] Is that it?

That's fine, we can avoid that discussion altogether! I just want to find Abel...

[He knows that he's not really being taken seriously and part of that is frustrating, but he presses on. If he lashes out, that'd only prove his point, right?]

Well, that was one of my theories... but since you pointed that out, it probably is true!

[Unbeatable logic, there. Theseus almost seems proud of himself, although deep down, he knows this is far from being over. So just as quickly as that pride appears, the Auror deflates a little, becoming a bit more serious.] And I mean, it is a bit odd that your name is 'Cain' and I'm looking for someone named 'Abel.'

[He doesn't remember all of the backstory behind that, but he certainly has heard those two names being related to each other. Oh wait, wasn't the story Cain killing Abel...?

And suddenly, he tenses, his hand drawing closer to his wand.]

What is the Ministry teaching you guys if you're going to use such ridiculous speculation? You've all but shouted it in your mind what you were thinking. [It was a tad amusing before, but now it was growing a little wearisome. He couldn't fault the other though. For wanting to find him. Or even any missing person.

And Theseus did have potential. The prior logic rather ridiculous, but the latter claim was rather solid.

It had been his own reasoning to take the name Cain. Theseus would do well and flourish, but he couldn't admit that.

Cain rubbed at his temples for a moment.] I don't interact with the magic community that much. I don't like magic. [This wasn't actually a lie. Being a legilimens and a talented wizard to boot had done nothing but cause him years of grief being a dog to his father and it had really killed the enjoyment of magic. He would have been more than happy to be some Muggle if it meant a more peaceful life.

Even if he still kept up with his magic and studies (though he used most of his magic for just everyday).] I don't keep up with the news surrounding it and I certainly don't like to be involved in it. You could ask me about the current news and I'd not know a bloody thing is happening.

[Cain slips his wand out from where it was hidden in his shirt sleeve and holds it out to the other to look at it. Cain's old wand, he had kept but left hidden away in the original box it had came in. The details of Cain's old wand had been well known due to it being of a rare wood that held much power in it. Dragonstring core and a cherry wood. It was a gorgeous wand that he had abandoned; intricate and beautiful in design.

His current one was that of phoenix feather and Rowan wood. This one was more modest. Sleek, but didn't try to come off as ostentatious. It bared a styling almost similar to that of wind instruments. Cain had always wondered if it had always waited for him.] Rowan wood. It is commonly stated that wands made of Rowan have never chosen a dark witch or wizard. Since you seem intent to regard me with hostility, I've not done anything ill to this fellow as it is unlikely my wand would have chosen me had I decided to be nefarious in my path. [This wasn't a lie at all, but the reason he hadn't done anything ill to Abel was because he was Abel.] Look, I grow tired of this. You may continue to keep an eye on me and may even inquire about me from the patrons, but I do still have to finish working for tonight. [He tucks his wand away again.]

They gave me full reign, within the confines of the law of course, to find Abel. No one had any real clue to his disappearance, which is why I have to follow every lead, no matter how small.

[Theseus doesn't want to think about the very real possibility that the Ministry actually doesn't care at all about Abel and just sent him away to both shut him up and appease whatever guilt they might have. Send the war hero, yes, but overall inexperienced compared to many other Aurors in the department. And when he returns empty handed, they can just claim case closed and move on.

It's a depressing thought, but Theseus pushes it to the back of his mind. He has to do better blocking his thoughts after all.]

How can you not like magic? [That's one thing he'll ask out of genuine curiosity, not related to the case at all. After all, not everyone has magic and to think that someone would hate the power they have, the power to help others. But Theseus still has his hand by his wand, carefully watching as Cain pulls his out-- made of Rowan wood. It doesn't seem he's lying about that, but...

Does that mean he really hit a dead end?

Theseus pulls his hand away from where he keeps his wand hidden, and just nods, looking a bit disappointed in the turn of events.]

...I'm sorry for keeping you from your work. [But he'll stick around the place. Perhaps he'll be lucky and another new lead will turn up after asking the patrons once more.]

[Cain can't help but soften his gaze somewhat at the thoughts that flit through Theseus' mind.] Well, you're determined. I'll give you that. Coming all the way to the States is certainly not a trip everyone is willing to make. [It's a little sweet. He doesn't know how he left a lasting impression on the other, but they at least seemed rather genuine.

Odd, but sweet. Unfortunately, he was rather determined to keep his past buried.] MACUSA keeps a record of foreigners that visit. Wand permit forms and the likes. You can probably request to see their logs. [Although Cain had took on a new identity completely before leaving England, but the other was an Auror. Sleuthing was something Theseus could possibly be good at. It wasn't like his attempts weren't completely shabby right now.

Cain takes a long drag from the remnants of his cigarette before flicking it to the floor and crushing it under his shoe.] People don't like being used and I just found that things were much more liberating detaching myself from it. [A careless shrug.] Don't get me wrong, I still use it, but I suppose experiences have soured my look on it.

[He does miss the joy and wonder it had brought him as a child, but he only really can think about long work hours and the painful loneliness of keeping his natural legilimency under wraps.

Speaking of.] I'd appreciate if you didn't go about to tell others about my legilimency. I do prefer my privacy if you so please. [He was too much of a cowardice and honestly, he should have been more careful with Theseus about it.] It's too bad though. Interrupting me to interrogate me. You really are quite easy on the eyes.

[He hasn't forgotten how strict MACUSA can be, but Cain's suggestion is a sound one. He didn't bother checking with them about wand permits, thinking that Abel's disappearance was malicious and the like. But if he's truly reached a dead end here, it will do him good to be completely thorough. It's worth it, he doesn't want to fail.

He doesn't want to come back empty handed.]

I will.

[While Theseus still doesn't fully agree with Cain's thoughts about magic, him implying a few terrible experiences brings the Auror back to the Great War. Muggle weapons were a major threat, yes, but he can't ignore the damage that some dark wizards did either. Not to mention, he's still not the happiest obliviating muggles left and right. It's just policy though.]

...Magic can certainly be a terrifying thing. Horrible, even.

[But he doesn't want to dwell on it. Theseus isn't here to lament about the war in front of someone that he thought of as a suspect.]

I won't tell anyone. [He seems sincere about that. Right now, there's certainly no reason to tell anyone about his legilimency. His mind will only change if Cain starts becoming a threat--]

Oh, um. [This is definitely not the first time he's been flirted with by Cain. But since interrogation is over, the compliment hits a bit more this time. Almost embarrassed, he rubs the back of his head.] Thank you. Not often other fellows say that to me, but thank you.

[Cain shrugs a little.] Sometimes it can be more of a shackle than liberating. [At least that's how it had always felt to him. Perhaps it sounds overdramatic to the other though. He waves his hand dismissively.] It's a responsibility. Any responsibility can be terrifying and lead to horrible results.

[This was all probably surprisingly serious comments for a man who seemed to not be taking Theseus too seriously just before.]

Thank you. [Cain offers a wink. though.] That's because you seem like a bloke completely interested in women. [A bit of a laugh.] I'm not particularly interested in the fairer side and who doesn't like a well kept man in a three piece suit.

Damn shame, really. I wouldn't mind taking you home despite it all. [Serious? Back to being shameless.]

Having responsibilities is important. Reminds me to do my best, keep myself in check, and work hard so I don't let others down.

[Theseus is a bit more serious when he says that, like he truly believes every word coming from him. He thinks that a possible debate is about to happen, with Cain arguing his point further, except he's talking about relationships again and thus the young wizard falters. He's never really been in a situation like this before. Shouldn't he just let this go and focus on Abel? This is a dead end, but--]

Do I really give that sort of impression? That I only like women? [What is he saying.] I mean, I haven't thought much of being with someone of the same side-- not that I haven't found a few fellows attractive themselves, but ah...

[He's rambling now. Send help.]

Well, you're free to keep your responsibilities, darling. I've decided that I'm not really interested in them.

[Cain wants to act like he's more of a free spirit than anything, but he's more tired than anything. Previous responsibilities had weighed so heavily on him and he has been in the heads of some of the worst people. It wasn't a pretty sight. What some of those people had in their heads.

Though he looks at the other rather incredulously before letting out a bark of a laugh.] You seem like you've never considered it, darling. [He moves closer suddenly and now he's in Theseus' personal space. His face dangerously close to the other's own.] Would you let me have a kiss then? For all my troubles? [Like a cat playing with his food.]

I haven't--

[It was just extremely uncommon, looked down upon by certain groups of the wizarding world. Theseus never cared much about people's personal preference, but he's always been the type to sort of go with what's expected of him. Really, the only time he went out of line was when he joined the Great War against Ministry orders, but that is something entirely different.

And really, until now, the only people that have tried to ask him out have been ladies. This is the first time someone is this close-- okay now he's even closer.]

Uh. [Is his face turning red? Theseus doesn't know, but he wouldn't be surprised at this point.] I'm not sure if that's appropriate-- I mean, I'm still on a mission right now! I shouldn't be letting myself get distracted by kissing anyone.

[Watching Theseus crumble like this was too entertaining for him. He isn't exactly doing it to be mean, but it would be a lie if he wasn't getting some fun out of making the other squirm.] You talk about being appropriate when we're at a speakeasy of all things. Speakeasies are far from appropriate. It's for people to lose their inhibitions and enjoy some debauchery last I checked.

[He presses a tad closer.] Seduction though... it's a viable way to get information. [His mouth is so dangerously close.] I've found people have looser lips that way.

[He places a quick kiss on Theseus' cheek. Cain will be a little merciful.] You're young. Live a little. [A wink as he starts to make his way back to the door and back inside.]

Even so, I'm still an Auror. That means I must be professional, even at a place like a speakeasy.

[His protests come off as weak, however. The battle of being professional and doing what he wants is a common thing for Theseus, especially since people have come to regard him as a rising Auror and role model. He just doesn't want to let people in the Ministry down... but he also feels that things can be a bit too strict, especially with Travers.]

I-I'm not going to seduce people for information!

[Theseus squawks, both from the very idea of seduction and the fact Cain is even closer to him. Oh, this is definitely getting too close and--

He's kissed. On the cheek.

His face turns bright red. Does. Does that kiss count? Theseus doesn't really think so and that's good. Also, maybe a little disappointing. Oh, oh dear. Maybe he'll just use this time to uhh, go over facts. He should let Cain go back to work anyway.]

Well, that sounds all a tad dull. [He understands as being someone who had completely devoted himself to his work and nothing else.

If this life was built on lies, he could say that he was at least enjoying it far more than before. Cain was content with his life more so than Abel ever was.

So Cain laughs a little.] Perhaps you'll reconsider in the future. It's really quite an easy way to get information and you get to have fun too. I really don't see any downsides. You're young and attractive. It would be easy for you even. [Cain's voice almost comes out like a purr. A cat playing with his food so to speak.

He's almost a little reluctant to give the other up and return to his work. He does though. He goes back into the smokey speakeasy to continue the rest of the night. Cain is a good performer though. He's charismatic and passionate. Jazz had really started making its way into dance clubs and speakeasies. The room was lively with everyone dancing to every track the live band played.

He loved it. The energy and the elated feelings.

The night turns into a very early morning before people file out into the cool New York air. A night debauchery coming to an end for people to either sleep in or to spend their work days exhausted but satisfied.

Cain is back in the back alley with a cigarette as he decides what to do next. TO see if perhaps the other will come back to talk to him.]

If I was a truly good Auror, I wouldn't need to do that!!

[His retort comes quickly, overly defensive with his expression still deep red. He doesn't even want to think about sleeping around just to get information! That's so... so immoral! And a little embarrassing.

Luckily, it seems that he's spared for the time being. Theseus lets out a relieved breath when Cain returns back inside, even though a tiny part of him almost misses his presence. ...W-what is he thinking?! He's completely incorrigible! What he really needs to do is focus on finding Abel. It's the reason he's here, after all.

The thought of the judge helps Theseus to be focused once more.

He spends all night tracking potential clues, asking other patrons for information. But unfortunately, nothing turns up, and with such failures on his hand, Theseus returns to the back alley with an almost defeated expression. Exhaustion is also pouring off him. Perhaps it would just be best to abandon the place completely, but the tired part of him just wants to stick around for now.

Perhaps it's just some hope to see Cain again.

And it seems some luck is still with him.]

Oh, Cain...

[Cain's mouth curls into a smile before he exhales smoke and taps ash onto the floor.]

You seemed surprised. Doesn't everyone like to destress after work? [Even if destressing for him was to unhealthily chain smoke. But hey, he wasn't interested in a long life. He just cared about trying to enjoy his days as much as he could manage.]

I'm surprised you stayed the entire time. The sun is going to come up in an hour or so, probably. [It was actually quite late. Still too early to find a place that was open except some diners that didn't close. Though-] You hungry? I'm famished.

[One more drag before he drops his cigarette to crush it under his shoe.] I think I was going to get breakfast.

...Yeah.

[The more responsible side of Theseus thinks that he should promptly go to MACUSA, seek out more information and possible leads there, but the weary part of the young Auror almost dreads going into that building and dealing with more disappointment. It's been a long night and a part of him just wants to relax, even for a little. He can't help Abel if he's completely tired, right?

Actually, he probably should just find a hotel to check into-- until the offer of food is made.]

You're inviting me? [Theseus is a little surprised. He did interrogate him after all... although, Cain also kissed him, as mild as it may be.]

As pretty as you are, you look like shite. [Cain can tell the wind was taken out of Theseus' sails. It's unfortunate because that had to happen because he was unwilling to give up the comfortable lifestyle he had now.

That isn't to say that he can't show the other a good time though.]

Why not? Food is better eaten in the company of others. American diners are a dime a dozen. but I know a few that make a good cup o' tea on top of good coffee. [Cain is already walking out of the alleyway to get onto the sidewalk.] And no good diner ever closes.

Thanks...

[It was sort of a compliment? Theseus is too tired to really think much about it, but he figures that he should respond in some manner to the partial compliment/insult. Guess he can appreciate the honesty of it; he probably looks like a disaster, far from the poise that he likes to portray to others.]

... [He really should make his way back to a hotel, but with his stomach lightly grumbling in protest, he can't find it within him to argue much longer. It's sort of nice of Cain to invite him for a small bite as well.] Tea would be lovely, thank you.

[Theseus musters up a smile, before slowly following Cain out the alleyway. Tea and... good company? He's the only person he knows around here at any rate.]

Edited 2020-08-02 01:51 (UTC)

When love became an act of defiance

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