The scale of his home's hidden wonders provedd beyond doubt that the famous magizoologist's devotion to magical creatures was not just extraordinary, it was legendary.
Newt, unaware of Alex's astonishment, quietly led the group toward one of the enclosures and carefully lifted the weather blanket covering its entrance.
"This enclosure simulates a mountainous jungle environment," Newt explained calmly. "We can safely put the two Nundu leopards here. Just make sure you cast a Bubble-Head Charm before releasing them, or you might accidentally inhale their poisonous breath."
One of the Aurors glanced at Newt skeptically. "Just put them straight in like that? Aren't you worried they'll escape?"
Newt chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "Don't worry. I've placed Confundus Charms around the borders, along with magical suggestions. If any creature wanders too far, they'll instinctively turn back. Trust me, I've learned my lesson the hard way." He smiled fondly, as though recalling some amusing past experiences.
"Understood, Mr. Scamander," the Ministry officials said with relief. With their doubts cleared, they carefully released the two Nundus into the enclosure. Thankfully, these particular leopards were among the least injured of the rescued creatures, and with sufficient rest and food, they'd soon fully recover.
After settling the leopards, Newt continued guiding the group through each enclosure, assigning a place for every rescued creature and carefully instructing everyone on their proper care. For example, he showed them how to soothe the three-headed dog by playing gentle music, causing it to sleep peacefully.
Throughout this process, Newt patiently explained every detail about treating these large, high-risk magical animals. He demonstrated how to properly examine them, clean their wounds, and apply medicinal potions. He even taught the group practical skills, such as how to safely feed an injured animal, handle it gently, and avoid triggering aggression when dealing with sensitive injuries.
In these moments, Newt Scamander seemed like a dedicated professor teaching a specialized class on magical creature care. Alex and the Ministry employees eagerly absorbed the lessons, carefully practicing what Newt showed them. Soon enough, everyone divided into teams, efficiently nursing and treating all the rescued creatures.
Naturally, Alex was assigned to take care of the Thunderbird. Of all the animals rescued, the Thunderbird had suffered some of the worst injuries, covered with deep cuts and severe bruises.
Upon careful examination, Newt found several broken bones that needed immediate resetting, likely caused by the Thunderbird fiercely resisting capture. Given its powerful nature, this wasn't surprising.
Fortunately, under Alex's calming presence, the Thunderbird was easily the most cooperative of the animals being treated. Even during painful moments, such as bone-setting, it only let out a few pitiful cries without any aggression.
After several hours of intense care, Alex finally wiped sweat from his forehead, relieved.
The Thunderbird's wounds were disinfected and bandaged, with splints securely holding its broken bones in place. After carefully feeding it and providing additional comfort, the creature finally relaxed enough to fall into a deep, peaceful sleep.
"You rest here for now. I'll be back soon to check on you," Alex whispered softly, gently stroking the Thunderbird's head feathers. Even in sleep, the Thunderbird seemed aware of Alex's soothing presence, making a quiet, contented sound in response.
In just this short time spent together, Alex had formed a genuine bond with the creature, increasing his resentment toward the Silver wand agents responsible for its suffering.
Once certain that the Thunderbird was comfortably settled, Alex stepped out of its enclosure. By now, the Ministry staff had also finished caring for the other animals, and they began to depart in small groups, heading back to the Ministry.
Newt, however, asked Alex to stay behind, warmly inviting him into the main part of his home.
Entering Newt's living quarters, Alex noticed immediately how chaotic it seemed compared to the organized and spotless creature habitats.
Books and papers were stacked carelessly, scattered across tables and floors, alongside jars filled with unknown substances. Paintings depicting magical creatures lined the walls, giving the place an old-fashioned but welcoming atmosphere. Despite, or perhaps because of, the clutter, the house felt comfortably lived-in and charming.
As Alex explored, he quickly realized that even Newt's home was shared with magical creatures. A curious Diricawl stared at Alex with a foolishly adorable expression, while several Kneazles darted playfully underfoot. Nearby, Bowtruckles climbed happily through the branches of potted plants scattered around the room.
However, the creature that immediately captured Alex's attention was the small Niffler perched high on a shelf. The moment Alex stepped into the living room, it leaped toward him excitedly, like a cat pouncing on a mouse. It swiftly landed on Alex's shoulder, greedily reaching toward the silver brooch pinned neatly on his chest, eagerly pulling it towards its pouch.
But the greedy Niffler had clearly underestimated its target. As soon as it grasped Alex's brooch, a soft protective glow erupted around it, conjuring a transparent Shield Charm. Startled by the sudden magical reaction, the Niffler was instantly thrown into the air, tumbling awkwardly across the room.
"Naz! Haven't we discussed this? No causing trouble!" Newt sighed lightly, calmly raising his wandless hand to gently catch the Niffler mid-air, pulling it back towards him. He softly tapped Naz's head with affectionate reproach, shaking his head with an amused smile.
Feeling guilty, Alex smiled apologetically and removed the brooch, carefully offering it toward the now-sulking Niffler. "Sorry, it's my fault, I forgot to disable the protective enchantment. It nearly hurt this little fellow."
Naz stared at the brooch suspiciously for a moment, clearly tempted but still cautious after his recent scare.
Seeing Alex treating Naz kindly, Newt chuckled warmly. "Alright, enough playing around. Alex, Tina's prepared something to eat. After such a busy night, you must be starving, come and have something before we continue."
Alex happily agreed, following Newt to the dining room, where Tina welcomed them warmly.
"I heard everything from Newt," Tina said cheerfully as she removed her apron. "Thank you so much for helping us save Rolf earlier. You're welcome anytime, Alex. Come on, sit down and eat, I hope my cooking is decent enough for you!"
"You're too kind," Alex replied, politely smiling. "I'm sure your cooking is wonderful, I'm very grateful for your hospitality."
During their meal, Alex couldn't help glancing around curiously. Magical creatures freely wandered the dining area, playing at their feet, or relaxing nearby. It was truly like stepping into a fairytale home.
"By the way," Alex asked curiously, noticing Rolf was absent, "where's Rolf? Isn't he living here anymore?"
"After that incident," Newt explained patiently, "Tina and I decided it was safer to send him back to his parents temporarily. We were concerned that Silver wand might target him again."
Alex nodded understandingly, glad they'd taken extra precautions to protect Rolf.
After lunch, Newt invited Alex into his study. Inside was another pleasant chaos: stacks of books piled high on tables, magical ingredients scattered casually, and countless intriguing items strewn about in a charming disorder.
"Alex," Newt said kindly, sitting comfortably on the sofa, "you've done us great favors, so Tina and I sincerely wish to repay you. Tell me, is there anything here you'd like? Don't hesitate, just ask."
Alex hesitated briefly before replying, smiling slightly mischievously, "Actually, there is something I'd really like, but I don't know if you're willing to part with it."
Surprised, Newt raised his eyebrows, intrigued. "Oh? Tell me about it."