prohibitions | When love became an act of defiance

[The Remington family had always been a well revered family name. A surname with a long history of pureblood witches and wizards that have left their mark throughout history. Even now, the Remingtons were a well known family through Britain. The father, a politician of a high position. The mother, a famous seer. The two had two children. The older one was an auror and the younger, the youngest known to hold the position of chief warlock of the Wizengamot.

Abel Remington was well known. Prim and proper in how he held himself; a prodigy when it came to his ability and magic. He did quite well in his position. Favored by many for his firm, but fair assessments. A reserved and serious person who seemed very devoted to his work.

So devoted that when the man doesn't arrive to work, it's honestly shocking. After all, the other seemed perfect in every matter and being punctual definitely has always been a thing. It becomes a whole ordeal. The man seemed to have simply vanished in almost an instant and so seamlessly too. There didn't seem to be any lead as to what became of the man.

Of course investigations are made immediately, but many come up with nothing. There didn't seem to be any trail to follow to find Abel, and if there were, they were getting cold fast.

Eventually though, a promising lead is found. It takes them out of England and overseas to the States where one hopes the man can be found safely.]

[Theseus Scamander, a young but uprising Auror of the British Ministry of Magic, somehow got the assignment to find Abel in the states. Quite surprising, given his age and the fact that there are more prominent Aurors that are suited for the job, but the young Theseus was desparate for the assignment, since he's always looked up to Abel since he began his tenure as an Auror. Worried for his safety, he immediately voluntereed for the task.

If Theseus wasn't fresh off the war, decorated as a hero of it, Travers probably would've ignored his request, but not even the strict head of law enforcement could deny him for long.

So the young Scamander is currently in the states, following the clues to locate the other man. This is their first lead and he doesn't want to fail the Ministry or Abel, especially if something terrible happened to him. It's likely he's been captured by a dark wizard, there's no other reason why he'd suddenly not show up, right?]

[New York is a lot different than London. The hustle and bustle of New York was different. Everyone seemed to be busy and trying to get somewhere. No one seemed to pay attention to each other; too focused on getting through their day to day.

The culture here was different. Things have progressed differently and the music scene was in full swing with jazz, flappers, and debauchery. From speakeasies and clubs to lavish parties; it seemed Americans were out living out their lives in glitz and glamour.

That being said, it was these kind of places that had the best information. Gossip and rumors and secrets shared in whispers and hushed voices while music hopefully drowned it all out. It would be the most ideal place. After all, word gets around fast more than one realizes.

There are as many unsavory folks as there are upper class wealthy folks in the speakeasy. The smell of alcohol and cigarettes was strong and there was a slight haze of cigarette smoke that filled the space. Yet, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves quite a bit. Knocking back shots and dancing the night away.

It seemed like to be merely a muggle speakeasy, but some wizards and witches like to mingle amongst them to avoid MACUSA busting in hopefully. With luck, perhaps a muggle or wizard might be able to point in the right direction of locating the missing Brit.]

[Americans are always in such a rush, at least these New Yorkers definitely are. A few times, Theseus has been bumped into, and even though he tried apologizing, he rarely gets any sort of response in return. All of this has been rather difficult and Theseus can't wait to return back home, but he's definitely not leaving until he finds Abel. He'll gladly accept a few more irritated stares from Americans than return home without trying his hardest.

Theseus doesn't mind the different music or the culture, just the fast paced nature of the city is something to get used to. He's out of his element here, and he's definitely not wholly experienced as an Auror, but determination and stubbornness has always fueled the older Scamander. Got him through Hogwarts and his training, and it got him through the war.

Luckily, he blends in well enough at the speakeasy, wearing high quality clothes as he eases himself into one conversation after another. Being young and attractive, along with a few subtle charms, helps Theseus to find a strong lead.]

[Theseus is charming and attractive and it gets people to chat with him with ease. It also helps that Theseus was foreign and perhaps it was easier to loosen one's tongue when they think that Theseus is just some random tourist in the States.

No one seems to know anything about Abel. It isn't like he would be a common sight to see. British and Asian? Most would say that he would be someone that would catch the eye of anyone, but no one has seen anyone fitting Abel's description.

They do eventually mention that Theseus should talk to the pianist that performs. No one knows exactly when he started showing up at clubs, but it sounded to be around the same time as when Abel had disappeared. Despite that, the man looked nothing like the man in question. A few of the girls giggle as they bring Theseus over to Cain.] I'm sure he'll help you plenty. He's British too. You are British right?

[Abel is leaning against the stage and lighting a cigarette before he glances up with an easy smile.] You've brought a friend, darlings. Be careful or I might take him for myself. [A wink and grin at Theseus.] Is there something I can do for you?

Edited 2020-01-17 10:43 (UTC)

[Theseus has his suspicions when they mention to him about a mysterious pianist that started to appear; it's a bit too much of a coincidence on the timing there. Abel disappears, only for this man to show up? So while he's not 100% certain, it would truly be foolish of him to ignore this big clue. It's easy enough to get the young ladies to bring him to Cain, and Theseus does a quick look over at the other man.

Definitely doesn't look anything like Abel, but with magic up their sleeve, that doesn't confirm much of anything.

Maybe he can cut to the chase and cast revealio, as soon as the girls leave them be. Although, if this guy isn't Abel and he shows his magic... he might just have to obliviate him as well. That's fine, he's gotten quite good at using that charm since the war.

Sour thoughts those are, but Theseus forces himself to focus on the present.

Perhaps it's his wandering thoughts that he didn't catch the slight teasing in the other man's words, but honestly, Theseus can be a bit thickheaded sometimes. Nonetheless, it is time to get this started....]

If it's okay with you ladies, I'd like to talk with him alone. [He smiles at them.] Truly appreciate your help just now, you didn't have to help this lost foreigner wandering about.

[The girls giggle and fuss a bit before heading to the bar to go order drinks, leaving the two Brits to their own devices.

Cain takes a drag from his cigarette before gesturing to the backdoor. He smells strongly of vanilla and smoke.] Mind if we go out for a smidge? I don't know about you, but I've been in here for damn hours and I'd like to remind myself what fresh air smells like. I've got to play another set in thirty.

[Whether or not Theseus wants to agree to it or not, Cain pushes himself away from the stage and starts making his way to go backstage and make his way out for said fresh air. He already knew what was going on Theseus' head. Not because they're exactly loud thoughts, but because they were unique. They stuck out in the mix of Americans. They stuck out because they were familiar.

The air is brisk and chilly. Clear unlike the muggy and stale are inside the speakeasy.]

[Agreeable terms, Theseus has no reason to really decline them. Even if this is a trap of sorts, he feels confident enough in his own abilities to fend others off. Of course, it feels slightly ridiculous to be this wary over a pianist, but a good Auror knows to be prepared at all times. Maybe this fellow isn't Abel in disguise, perhaps a dark wizard that's related to his disappearance.

Keep an open mind, right?

But he smiles lightly at him, following Cain out and honestly enjoying the fresh air himself. Really was getting quite stuffy in there, and he hasn't been in for long. Maybe working long hours at his office in the Ministry has left him in a more sensitive mood regarding the indoors.]

Thank you for taking the time to do this. [Best get that courtesy out of the way.] I don't imagine that it's often a strange British man asks for your attention like this.

[The New York night is chilly enough to get the other to quietly cuss under his breath before getting himself comfortable by leaning against the brick wall. The air has the scent of smoke and vanilla as he smokes it.]

I'm getting paid for it by technicality, so why should I complain? [He offers the other an easy smile.] I don't mind giving you my attention as long as you don't point your wand at me. As much as I appreciate a man who can handle a wand well doesn't mean that's the kind of foreplay I'm really into.

[A raised eyebrow.] I've had plenty of men ask for my attention though. If you were really that curious.

[So, he knows that he's a wizard. Theseus immediately tenses, nearly drawing his wand in response to that particular revelation, but he shows enough self-restraint and stops himself from doing so. However, it's clear he's more wary and his hand is by his pocket where he keeps his wand, his eyes now carefully tracking Cain and his movements, in case he needs to go the more 'direct' route.

The man seems easygoing, but it could just be a rouse to get Theseus to relax.

...Even as he feels himself grow slightly flustered from the man's flirtatious response. Oh, he's quite used to women being rather open with their intentions with him, but it's not at all common for men to show that same sort of reaction to him. He honestly doesn't know how to react, although, Theseus still finds himself to be charmed in some ways.]

You're connected to Abel, aren't you? [He might as well cut to the chase, best to do that instead of paying attention to the small flustered expression that's painting his cheeks. He's a war hero, for goodness sake! He can deal with this.]

[He finds it curious that the other doesn't question why he knew they were a wizard, but it just means something he doesn't really have to answer until the other does ask.

Cain taps ash onto the ground before tucking it back into his mouth.]

Maybe if I slept with him. [He shrugs.] What makes you think I know this bloke or be connected with him? Since you're going to accuse me of such a thing, I should at least get to know the reasoning why. [Cain looks at him curiously.] You seem to be very sure of yourself that I am at least.

[For a moment, Theseus feels the words die in his throat, mostly from how brazen Cain seems to be. Casually mentioning the possibility of sleeping with Abel, combined with his earlier flirtiness, definitely makes the young Auror feel like he's always trying to catch up with him. He's just constantly getting thrown off guard with him.

Theseus makes a small noise in his throat, trying to focus on what he's actually saying here. He can't be distracted now of all times-- he's found his primary suspect for one!]

You knew I was a wizard, immediately. [That's a sign that he's been on the lookout for other magic individuals. Paranoia? Guilt?] And talk of your appearance coincides with the time Abel disappeared.

[Cain can't help but smile a bit. A smile and a little laugh. He can tell the other is definitely having trouble handling him.

It's fun for him and perhaps he'll have to apologize to Theseus someday. If the chance ever occurs.]

I'm a legilimens. Of course I knew you were a wizard. I knew what everyone was thinking in that speakeasy. It's a little hard not to, honestly. [A vague implication that he was a natural and that he didn't exactly have the ability to stop it.] I've been here for awhile and have papers saying so. I don't know when he disappeared, but I've been in the States for years. [They're all expertly forged, of course, but Theseus doesn't know what. After all, the whole point had been to recreate an entirely new identity and rid himself of any connections from before.]

Is there anything else you'd like to use against me for your lofty accusations?

[A legilimens, and a most likely natural one at that. It's a little worrying, and Theseus immediately tries to strengthen his own mind against it, but perhaps it's already too late at this point. He's been a little careless letting his thoughts be open around here, but it's not like Theseus has made his intentions unclear anyway.

Only thing he can do is keep interrogating him further. Perhaps it's a strength and a weakness of the Auror, to continue pressing on.

Theseus frowns a little at the answer. It's one that makes sense, but also papers feel meaningless, especially if he's also a talented wizard-- which Theseus is beginning to feel that it's definitely the case here. Unfortunately, he really doesn't have hard evidence that he is connected to Abel, but he doesn't want to give up so easily. After all, he's been his only suspect so far!]

Abel was one of the best Aurors the Ministry had. He's always been dedicated to his job. [Look, if Theseus seems a little awestruck when talking about him...] There's no reason why he would suddenly turn missing without a reason.

[Interesting. He had known who in the Ministry admired him and who had loathed him. He knew that Theseus was a touch fond of him, but maybe he hadn't realized the extent.

Sweet, if not a bit misguided. It does make him feel bad, but he had told himself not to feel guilty for leaving. He had been miserable.

He takes a drag from his cigarette before exhaling. Keep himself steady. He couldn't show any emotions that would imply he was personally afflicted.] Your manners are lacking. Accusing and interrogating me without even offering a name. [He waves his hand absentmindedly.] He sounds like a brilliant bloke, so I really don't know why you would think that I am involved. I'm a musician. [A pause.] Was he unhappy?

[It makes him curious. If anyone had noticed. The many days that he just went through the motions of work and living. The exhaustion of trials that took a toll on his mental psyche.

Had anyone noticed he couldn't muster a genuine smile? Or were they so easily fooled?

Perhaps it's mean to assume anyone would notice anything was amiss. It wasn't like he had actual friends. Admirers or enemies. Respect or disdain. True companionship; he can't think of anyone that fit that bill.]

[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.]

When love became an act of defiance

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