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Prompt 1: All the legends are true

There’s a legend only the Silent Brothers know of, and the details of which are deeply hidden in the most sacred books of the Clave. There’s a legend saying that also Shadowhunters can have magic, but as a curse more than a blessing, since those who possess it have been chosen at the beginning of time to become the Clave disruptors. There’s a legend saying that only Omega males can receive this magic.

Or maybe, are all the legends true?

++

With a last scream which scared the whole multitude of Angels, Archangel Michael raised his flaming sword and pierced Lucifer right through his heart. A blinding light erupted from Lucifer’s chest while his angelic core abandoned him to be reabsorbed in the splendor of God.

Together with his brothers Gabriel and Raphael, Michael got closer to Lucifer who was agonizing, laying down in the dirt, and looked at him with contempt.

“Be thou accursed, that no man acknowledges thee from this time henceforth and forever as an angel of God, you who dared challenge Him! Be cursed, far from the Heaven for never come back until the end of time!”

Lucifer lifted his gaze, full of anger.

“I refused to bow to humans, made from dirt while I’ve been made from divine light, and I always will! Better reign over Hell than serve in Heaven! But before you ban me from here, have my prophecy and my curse. A time will come when humans carrying angelic blood will be called to protect the Earth from my army. Mortals who will try to defeat it. They will never prevail. A few of them will be cursed to hold demonic magic and will be banned themselves by their own comrades. Until one of them will start a fire which will destroy the whole world!”

Michael didn’t answer. He raised his hand and fire erupted from it, plunging Lucifer into nothingness of Hell.

**

Surabaya is the second-largest city of Indonesia, situated on the North-Eastern corner of the Java Island, and its origins trace back to the 10^th century. It was the most important city in the Dutch East Indies and a main trading hub for Indonesia. The name of Surabaya comes from Javanese “sura ing baya” that means “bravely facing danger”. An ancient prophecy says that the city is bound to witness a fight between a giant white shark and a giant white crocodile, representing the Surabayan people and foreign invaders, but so far, the two animals, as statues, dominate the entrance of the city zoo, in front of which Magnus stops for a little while, mockingly saluting the two beasts.

Right now, Magnus is taking a stroll. He loves his city, it’s beautiful, green, ancient buildings and modern skyscrapers next to each other without any stark contrast, just like people, who have different origins and follow different religions, living in peace together. He just ended his night patrol and he’s slowly coming back home – well, the Institute of Surabaya. That’s where Magnus Bane lives, son of the Head, Asmodeus, and his wife Suri. Magnus often wondered why this city has been provided with such a large Institute. Yes, the city is big, but demonic activity has always been very modest here, and their patrols are often smooth or little challenging anyway. That’s why they train all the time: this is what his dad recommends. He says that, having poor chances to confront demons, they’re going to rest on their laurels and become lazy, and surely nothing is more pleasant than an uninterrupted peace, but also dangerous, because it makes them vulnerable.

Magnus might acknowledge that his dad is right but can’t help but enjoy his quiet life, that allows him to have friends to hang around with and to nurture his fashion style, besides his studies and his training. Being the only son of the Heads is not easy: everyone seems to expect great things from him. And that’s okay, even if he perfectly knows that he’s not bound to necessarily become the next Head after his parents retire or are sent to hold a different position, for example in Alicante. He has to show to be worthy, but honestly he doesn’t know if he truly desires to play this role. He’s a good soldier, and a better strategist, but his place is on the active field. Politics annoy him - while Asmodeus is a master at that – and he doesn’t believe he will be ever ready to join those unending meetings his father finds so challenging and interesting. Magnus is sure they must be boring to death.

Anyway, this is Clave business, who knows what will happen? His parents are still young and in good health and they enjoy their role a lot. So Magnus enjoys his, too.

The only matter that scares him a bit is that Asmodeus made crystal clear he has to get married soon and have children. Ugh, he’s only 18 years old, and he’s a just presented Omega male, so he’ll be the one carrying pups and delivering them. And Magnus doesn’t like this perspective that much. Omega males are rare but not unheard of. Nevertheless, there hadn’t been any male Omega at their Institute since a couple of centuries, so Magnus’ presentation was an unusual event. An event without consequences, apparently: Magnus is a bit shorter and less muscular than the average Alphas, but not less strong or skilled in combat or deadly. He has been thoroughly checked by the Clave medics, but he hasn’t been found unfit for fighting or any other common activity. The only difference, he possesses reproductive organs that ultimately might allow him to carry children. Whether or not he can be impregnated by an Alpha or another Omega, no one simply knew. Who knows, maybe the Silent Brothers hide the truth inside their archives, and when the time comes, Magnus is sure they can warn or help him. Right now, he doesn’t care.

He loves life, he loves people, no matter their sex or gender. He has had his fair string of one-night stands and a couple of longer crushes, but he’s 18, and nothing lasted more than two or three months. Just a bit of scenting, but very carefully, so very few people, apart from his parents, really know how Magnus really smells. Like his fellows at the Institute, he’s used to wear scent-blockers; only those who are interested in finding a mate stop doing it, to declare themselves available in building a relationship.

What Magnus is thoroughly not. At least, not a planned relationship with someone meeting his parents’ high criteria. What if it’s some bloated Alpha – those aren’t rare, unfortunately – male or female, whatever, who believes to be allowed to boss him around? Or look at him like he’s some weird phenomenon? Also, the idea of being pregnant doesn’t sound so appalling. He should stop the field activity – what he loves more – for god knows how much, and no one has seen a pregnant man at their Institute, and isn’t it exceptionally weird already? He likes to be under the spotlight but not for such reason, when people could look at you like you were some freak.

No, thanks.

As an Omega, he’s supposed to love and want pups with all his heart. Maybe he does. But in a far, far away future, that’s for sure, though his parents always remind him that Shadowhunters often die young and that he should care about leaving new recruits and that his bloodline shouldn’t disappear, blah blah…

Ugh. Casualties are rare in Surabaya, why should he care?

Magnus thinks about having a break at his favorite café, but it’s getting late for switching patrol, so he hastens his pace a bit, trying not to be late.

Suddenly, there’s something weird in the air, like a discordant note. Like the morning light has become dusty, almost ominously. Magnus looks around and people seem to go on with their lives without realizing there’s anything different, but he’s learnt to trust his gut, and something doesn’t add right. His hand runs at his belt, closing tight on his sword’s hilt. That’s not his favorite weapon, he loves his chakrams but until he doesn’t know what he has to deal with, the sword is his best option. He feels his heart pounding inside his ribcage and he doesn’t know why, but suddenly coming to the Institute has become urgent.

A light earthquake happens at that time: it’s not unusual there, so people around him just stop for a bit, then, reassured that there are not going to be further aftershocks, they come back to their business.

Magnus, instead, starts running and turns the last corner. And here it is, the Institute… no, wait… what is this? There’s no Institute anymore. Where an ancient building stood, thin, elegant towers pointing towards the sky, stained glass window with fighting Angels, marble stairs and columns at the huge door, there’s a heap of ruins now, slowly smoking like an immense fire just devoured everything. A thick dust is still hanging in the air, and above the remnants a group of screeching demons is flying in circle.

Time stops while Magnus tries to become aware of what happened (is happening?). The Institute…attacked? But…but Surabaya is a quiet location, right? These flying demons, he has known of them only from his textbooks. How is it possible?

Then his Shadowhunter training kicks in and he carefully gets closer to the ruins, hiding behind a larger stone to check the surrounding area. He can barely locate the approximate position of the entrance, trying to understand if there’s a way to climb in. But there’s almost nothing recognizable of the beautiful building the Institute used to be.

What about his Shadowhunter fellows, though? What about…mom and dad? Maybe they could escape this mess? How many of them?

A horrible thought works his way through his mind: if they were safe, they would be here, to fight demons and forbid them from harming the city and their inhabitants. This means…they must be…dead.

Magnus swallows, almost choking. He lifts his gaze and watches as the demons seem to fly away, so he hastens to climb onto the ruins, and starts to dig frantically in the rubble, looking for he doesn’t even know what…something, someone. He picks his stele and draws a strength rune on his arm to lift a bigger debris: under that stone, a hand lies still, pale, too pale even if it still keeps some warmth, when a terrified Magnus touches it. On the forefinger, a silver ring with a capital B intertwined with ivy branches, the insignia of the Bane family.

**

Magnus doesn’t know how much time passed while he was sitting hopelessly by the ruins of the Institute. Instead, he realizes that all he knew of his previous life has vanished in an instant. He lost everything, his home, his parents, his friends, his job, everything he’s ever known since when he was a child. He can’t cry over his loss, he’s still too dizzy and unfocused. He only keeps on staring at that dead hand which used to be his father’s and wonders where mom might be. Next to dad, for sure. They used to work in the same office and were rarely seen separated. Thinking of his mom suddenly breaks the dam: his mom, his kind, loving mom, who trained him for the hard life of a Shadowhunter since he was a child, but always made him feel loved and cherished, who hugged him when he came out as bisexual, telling him that nothing changed in her eyes and she didn’t give a fuck about what the Clave and those “black dressed idiots” could think. And his dad, his annoying, boring, loving dad.

Magnus starts crying, at last, harsh sobs wrenching his chest, fists hitting the stones until his hands bleed. Until he has no tears left and the sun is going to sink behind the buildings around.

He tries to gather ideas: what is he supposed to do now?

He has nowhere to go, he has no one to count on… He can’t even feel concerned about his own safety, somehow he hopes that some demon could come back to finish the job and kill him, bringing him relief and obliviousness.

Someone puts a hand on his shoulder and Magnus jumps up, his sword already at the man’s throat.

“Hey, chill out, boy. No danger.”

“Who are you?” Magnus croaks, without lowering his guard.

The man doesn’t answer at once, but is looking at Magnus with kindness and pity. Magnus suddenly realizes that he isn’t a mundane, and something tells him he is a warlock, despite his glamour is on.

“Who are you?” he repeats, his sword a little lower than before. He doesn’t trust this warlock but also, he knows the warlock could kill him with a hand gesture, he could have done that already, if he had wanted to.

“My name is Ragnor Fell, and as you already got, I’m a warlock, an English one, I need to point out.” He lets his glamour drop, and here he is, a green-skinned man in his late thirties, two small horns on his forehead.

Magnus swallows and puts his sword back in its sheath.

“What do you want from me, Warlock Fell?” he asks respectfully (as mom taught him to do), “May I ask if you know anything about what…happened here?”

Magnus’ voice breaks, tears threatening to come back. Ragnor puts both his hands on his shoulders.

“Actually, I do, Magnus (Magnus? How can the warlock know his name?) But it’s not the time and the place for debating such a painful topic. I’m in charge to secure you, so please trust me and come with me where I need to bring you. There’s so much at stake, but we can discuss later.”

Magnus is dutifully suspicious. But he’s hurting, he’s dead tired, and he has no strength to wonder whether the warlock is honest or not. He wants to get asleep and forget everything, and wake up realizing that it’s only been a bad dream; but he knows it isn’t, so what does he have to lose?

“Okay…” he whispers.

Ragnor smiles and takes Magnus’ bleeding hands in his, healing him with a brush of green magic.

Chapter Text

Prompt 2: Ignoring one another

Maryse is looking at his son from behind the massive desk in the Head office, a scowl on her face promising a storm, while Alexander is standing in front of her, parade stance and hands joined behind his back, staring at the angel carved into the high glass window surrounded by a stone, severe gable. This angel used to scare him, when he was a child, it didn’t match with the idea of the merciful, compassionate deities the adults wanted to convince him of. This angel is scowling just like his mother, and holds a huge sword, looking absolutely threatening and furious.

Maybe humans deserve to be punished. Even Shadowhunters, despite them sacrificing everything to fulfil the angels’ will, devoted to the cause of protecting the world and ready to die since the day they were born. And yet, not pure enough, not dedicated enough…not enough.  This is especially true for Alec Lightwood, eldest son and designated heir of the couple running the New York Institute.

There’s so much gossip around this couple. Everyone knows – but no one speaks – about their not exactly crystal clear past, they were even too close to Valentine Morgenstern and his project of destroying the entire Downworld as a sacred mission, but they extricated themselves just in time, barely dodging a death sentence and bargaining their safety reporting Valentine’s plans to the Clave. As a reward, they were allowed to live and assigned to rule the NY Institute just as Acting Heads, under the constant watch of the Clave itself. That’s why they can’t afford any false – in their opinion – step: hence, Alexander being harshly scolded by his commander/mother.

“Alec, I told you already, you can’t go on building alliances – and the Angel forbids – friendships with Downworlders. They’re…corrupted creatures, they will never be trustworthy, they’re going to stab you in the back. I can’t understand why my children just go so friendly with them, especially you, Alexander, who are going to rule this Institute after your father and I retire to Alicante. You can’t afford to look weak in the eye of the Clave!”

Alec flinches, hearing his mother call him “Alexander”. He loves his name, he’s proud of it but the way she pronounces it, the way it sounds from her mouth…it makes him cringe. It’s like adding an extra weight to her reprimand.

“May I add a word?” he asks respectfully. In this situation, his mother plays the role of his superior officer.

“No,” she cuts off, “this is an order. You’re dismissed. And you’re on patrol tonight.”

Alec doesn’t reply, gives her a curt nod and turns on his heels to come back to the Ops Center.

“Alec!” she calls, on second thought.

“Yes, ma’am?”

“I’ve been asked for a meeting from a warlock, Ragnor Fell,” she doesn’t hide her disgust, “you know, the warlock who takes care of the Institute’s wards. He’s not due to check on the wards for the next year, but he sent me a fire message about an urgent request, an important one, he said, bound to ensure our safety. I don’t understand what he could share with us that could be of use, but unfortunately I can’t afford to dismiss him. He should have arrived already, just escort him to my office and keep watch outside.”

She returns to her paperwork without a further glance.

Alec silently sighs and walks out of the room, looking for this elusive warlock.

**

“That bad, huh?” Izzy quips, watching her fuming brother storming out of their mother’s office.

“Don’t get me started,” he growls, and looks around searching the warlock Maryse is waiting for.

Izzy sighs. “I’m sorry, big bro. Just wait, they retire, sooner or later, and things will get better when you’re Head.”

“Yeah, sure, unless I die before that, thanks to some demon or more likely from the amount of bile I have to choke down.”

He shuts his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose, trying to cool down.

“Did you know anything about a warlock coming to see mom?”

“Yup. Andrew let him in and put him in the Sanctuary, waiting for orders. Do you need me to summon him?”

“No, thanks, I’ll do it.”

He squeezes her arm in silent thanks, then walks through the neverending corridors that lead to the great hall at the side entrance of the Institute, where Downworlders are usually kept waiting before being allowed to enter the main part of the building.

**

Ragnor is pacing back and forth, waiting to meet the Head of the Institute. What he needs to tell her is of utmost importance and urgency, like he pointed out in his message, and yet he’s been kept on hold since this morning. An absolutely disrespectful behavior, these Nephilim should be taught some manners, but Downworlders are used to be treated like shit, and though Ragnor would like to unleash his magic and scare the shit out of them all, he also knows that his mission is more important than his pride, right now.

“Finally!” he thinks, when the door is opened, and a young shadowhunter walks in. Ragnor stares at him and catches the resemblance: he must be one from Maryse’s litter. The young man bows his head respectfully.

“Good morning, High Warlock Fell. I’m sorry for making you wait so much and waste your precious time. Please, follow me, I’ll escort you to the Head’s office for the meeting you requested.”

For a few moments, Ragnor watches this boy curiously. His kind manners, his respect, his calling him with proper title and name…this is unusual, and nice, he should say. Pity that, as they say, one swallow does not make summer. Who knows how much time this gentle attitude might last? Ragnor is very old, and in his long life he happened to witness many things, mostly unpleasant, especially when you’re a Downworlder. And for a single kind shadowhunter there are so many who would gladly kill him to hang his horns on their bedroom walls as a trophy.

“Thank you,” he answers, and follows the man out of the Sanctuary, once more taking in that he leads Ragnor through the Institute, clearly trusting him, instead of pushing him ahead, preferably with an unsheathed sword at hand pointed at his back, just in case.

They finally reach Maryse’s office and the young man knocks at the door.

“Come in!”

He unlocks the door and keeps it open for Ragnor to walk in, and again Ragnor is positively impressed by his kindness. He lingers for a little while, watching his chaperone.

“Thank you, Mr.? I guess you’re one of Head Lightwood’s children, right? Your resemblance is astounding.”

“Alexander Lightwood, at your service, High Warlock Fell,” the man answers.

Ragnor seems to mull over it, then nods. “Glad to meet you, Mr. Lightwood,” he says, apropos of nothing.

Alec bows his head in acknowledgment, then, when Ragnor enters the office, he shuts the door behind him and takes his guard stance outside.

**

A few days after, Alec is waiting on the steps in front of the Institute, ready to welcome their new guest. Maybe “welcome” is a bit too much. Truth is that Alec is pissed off, being relentlessly scolded by his parents for being inadequate, whatever assignment he’s in charge of. Alec is trying: he trains more, he spends the nights elaborating strategies, keeps alive the fragile thread between Shadowhunters and Downworlders, deals with any trouble happening, all in all acting as Head…but he isn’t, and needs to answer to his parents who don’t give a shit about the Institute functioning except when there’s the Clave involved. When they need to look at their best, showing off without acknowledging their son’s achievements.

Right now, exactly thanks to his ability in building relationship with the Downworld, he’s in charge of receiving Ragnor Fell and the guest he’s bringing with him, some obscure shadowhunter coming from an East Asia Institute which has been destroyed during a massive demon attack. Looks like he’s the sole survivor and Maryse recommended him to take care of the guest, to make him feel “welcome” – right, welcome – and to introduce him to their staff, making him used to his new accommodation. Everything is quite suspicious, if you ask Alec, but he couldn’t get any further explanations from his mother. Why such a faraway Institute for relocating him? Why New York? Why a warlock, and Ragnor Fell no less, bringing him in? Who is this shadowhunter? But Maryse didn’t answer, she gave him an order and that’s that, despite the numerous questions Alec has posed. Something adding fuel to an already pissed Alec.

Finally, he sees two men approaching, one of them being Ragnor, the other one an Asian young man. Maybe he’s even younger than how he looks, Shadowhunters become adults so early that sometimes guessing their actual age is hard. He walks proudly though he’s poorly dressed, without any luggage and clearly distressed. His eyes are dull and red, his mouth corners marked by deep lines. Yet, he sports this arrogant demeanor, like he’s a master coming back to his mansion, ready to take his due place again, and Alec immediately feels like he can’t stand him.

He tries to be at least polite, though: he has orders. He nods respectfully to Ragnor, purposefully ignoring his companion.

“High Warlock Fell, good morning. We were waiting for you.”

“Good morning, Mr. Lightwood.”

They enter the Institute hall and Alec leads them to an adjacent room where guests are usually invited to wait until the Heads are available to receive them.

Ragnor points to the young man. “Mr. Lightwood, may I introduce you Magnus Bane? He comes from Surabaya Institute that, as you certainly know, has been recently destroyed in a demon attack. He lost his family and fellows then, and his relocation in New York looked the best option for him to recover. I hope he can find a good accommodation here and start a new life.”

Alec nods in acknowledgment towards their guest and notices that he nods too, without even trying to shake hands, those pursed lips still shut. He didn’t even try to thank for accepting him, so Alec’s piss just grows. When he heard that Magnus lost all his family in the attack, he had flinched a little: as obnoxious Magnus might be, this kind of loss must have been devastating. Alec can’t stand the idea of losing his loved ones. Well, maybe his parents not that much, but his siblings… Anyway, his compassionate thoughts towards Magnus quickly disappear. This guy must be really annoying. Alec chooses to ignore him once more.

“Very well, High Warlock Fell. I hope Mr. Bane will find his right place here. Now, if you excuse me, I’ll ask someone to walk you out.”

**

Ragnor left a while ago and Alec is unwillingly leading Magnus around. He brusquely showed him the cafeteria, his bedroom, the meeting room and brought him to the Head’s office, where Maryse is going to meet him. That’s enough, now he can get back to his duties. After all, Magnus has spoken just a few words to show he got what Alec was showing him. Not even small talk. Okay, they’re ignoring each other: good, Alec doesn’t need more bullshit to manage.

**

While this Alec guy is dragging him around, Magnus looks attentively at what is surrounding him. Everything seems so unusual to his eyes, used to the rich and soft architecture of his home, to the warmth of the colors that embellished the halls and the rooms, and yet painfully familiar, like every Institute in the world might be. Unfortunately, here everything is cold, outside and inside, the city and the Institute, almost spartan and mostly utilitarian, and people too. So severe, like the Angels in New York were perpetually pissed off and decided to make Shadowhunters’ life a hell on Earth. To punish them for their previous, current and future sins. Pissed off like this young man clearly displeased in leading Magnus around, probably following orders. If Magnus got it right, his mom might be the Head. Magnus silently sighs and feels his eyes welling and his throat choking, mourning his dead parents and his previous carefree life. He could use a friend, right now, but Alec is ignoring him. Okay, who cares? He has no trouble in reciprocating his coolness. Screw all!

Chapter Text

Prompt 3: Ops Center

The day after his arrival, when Alec enters the Ops center, Magnus is already there, pleasantly chatting with Izzy no less. Alec doesn’t want to eavesdrop but ugh, he’s right there and can’t help but listen to the conversation.

“I’m so sorry for your loss, Magnus,” Izzy is saying, “I’m sure you’ll find a new family here. Are you feeling like telling me something about what happened?”

“Thank you, Izzy.”

Izzy? Seriously? Like, we’re friends already?

“I’m not even sure, the whole thing looks so unlikely to me, so weird. Surabaya has always been a peaceful city, demon activity has always been lame. My dad – he swallows audibly – my dad urged us all to train a lot since we didn’t have many chances to fight. I think that this attack was so unexpected that my fellows didn’t even have time to prepare a counteroffensive. They might have caught by surprise.”

He sighs, grief coming back full force. “I know that we should be ready to meet the Great Reaper any time, it’s our job, my mom always told me, but…I would have loved to be able to say goodbye, and I feel so lost now…”

A lonely tear runs down his cheek and Alec feels shitty for being so rude yesterday. He was angry to his mother and took it on Magnus, that was unfair. He seems a good person and even if Alec doesn’t know anything about his skills or his personality, he should have been kinder to him. He should apologize.

Meanwhile, Izzy, moved by the obvious pain etched into Magnus’ features, is hugging him, and Magnus seems to appreciate the gesture. Alec wonders if he’s going to hit on his sister, but Izzy can surely manage that on her own; even if the word “protection” is ingrained in Alec’s heart – in his name too – Izzy is an adult, at least in the Shadowhunter society, so she’s allowed to choose whether having some fun with someone or trying to build a more committed relationship or finally putting him in his place. Alec doesn’t have to be concerned about that.

While Izzy and this Magnus are bonding, Jace joins them.

“Hey, I heard there’s a new guest at the Institute,” he says cheerfully, offering his hand “are you Magnus Bane?”

“In the flesh!” Magnus answers, shaking it enthusiastically.

“I’m Jace Herondale, adopted son of the Lightwood family, hence Izzy’s adopted brother. Glad to meet you, I’m sure you’ll perfectly fit in here with us.”

“An outstanding family name, both of you, Shadowhunter royalty, I’m honored. My name is not up to your standard, I’m afraid.”

Izzy scoffs.

“Don’t be silly,” she says, lowering her voice, “wait until you meet our parents, and you won’t be so elated anymore. Let’s say they’re…traditional, if you get what I mean.”

“I met your mom yesterday, a bit stiffy but otherwise polite. Should I be concerned? You see, I’m nothing traditional…”

“Nah, they need some excitement in their life,” she answers, smirking, “maybe they’ll understand that there’s much more in the world than Clave rules!”

Magnus nods, thoughtfully. Then a questioning look appears in his eyes.

“Lightwood? Are there any more siblings apart from you? Because yesterday I was walked around by another Lightwood, if I remember correctly…”

“We have a little brother, Max, currently training in Alicante, but if you mean a tall, dark, handsome and exceptionally grumpy guy…” Jace asks mockingly.

Magnus smiles. “Um…I don’t want to be rude but yes, that would be him.”

“So you mean Alexander, well, Alec, yes, he’s our big brother.”

Alec has listened to the whole conversation without being seen, and was going to feel like a third or fourth wheel, but now he thinks the moment came to show up.

“Yes, that would be actually me,” he quips, and comes closer to the group, “I see you made acquaintance already.”

Jace bursts in a laugh, while Magnus blushes, but recovers quickly and moves towards Alec, offering his hand.

“I didn’t mean to be rude, obviously… I’m sorry. If you’re okay with that, let’s start again, okay? I don’t think we’ve been formally introduced…yet. I’m Magnus.”

“Obviously, sure…” Alec sullenly replies, but accepts Magnus’ hand and shakes it. “And as my brother has already pointed out, I’m Alec Lightwood, the grumpy big brother. That said, I want to apologize to you for being so unwelcoming yesterday. You know, I’d just had an unpleasant conversation with my mother and I was…well, there will be time for this conversation. Anyway, I’ve been impolite and inexcusable.”

Magnus stares at him, a strange look in his eyes, like he can’t believe what he’s seeing. Alec is handsome: tall, yes, and muscular, thick raven hair, the most beautiful hazel eyes Magnus has ever seen – well, you seldom meet hazel eyes in Indonesia. Magnus realizes that he likes this combination very much. He can’t understand how he didn’t catch all this beauty the first time they met; maybe he was still dazed and confused from the events, or dizzy for crossing through Ragnor’s portal, who knows.

“Please, don’t apologize, I’m sorry too, I should have been more respectful, they told me you’re pretty much ruling this Institute, that’s a very huge one,” he says.

“It is. It’s the largest Institute in North America and one of the largest in the world,” Alec says, eyes sparkling with pride, “and okay, now that we have apologized each other, let me point out that I’m not Head, not even Acting. Actually, as you already know, my parents officially steer the boat, but yes, I take over some stuff. Patrols schedule, for example. Are you feeling like joining the party or do you need a couple of days off still?”

“That’s very kind of you, Alexander, but I think I’m ready. After all – he sighs – no one can give me my family and friends back, so I’d better try to start this new life.”

He lowers his gaze, and Alec understands that’s for hiding tears.

“You know, - Magnus continues – our teachers and parents always tell us that being a shadowhunter means to be ready to die young, hence to lose your loved ones too. I think I couldn’t believe that so far. Yes, I got what my dad told me, I was rationally sure I could face everything…but I wasn’t. This event struck me like a lightning. Too unexpected.”

Alec swallows hard. He’s really been a jerk. He puts a hand on Magnus’ arm and squeezes it gently.

“I’m so sorry for your loss, Magnus. I hope you’ll find a new family here. I’ll call for a staff meeting to introduce you to everyone, then you can make acquaintance with every single New York shadowhunter, it’ll take a little time, but I’m sure you’ll win everyone.”

“Thank you, Alexander.”

Magnus wipes his tears angrily, then lifts his gaze. Alec gapes for a moment: how couldn’t he realize how gorgeous Magnus is? His delicate features, yet so masculine, and these eyes, sparkling with tears, of an unusual golden brown color. Alec’s gaze flicks on Magnus’ lips for a moment, then up and down his body. And suddenly he realizes his wolf is coming to surface and for an instant he loses his control onto his smell. Damn, but he’s wearing scent-blockers! Yet, a light scent of mint and dark chocolate wafts in the air. Magnus’ pupils widen and, as an answer, caramel and cherry blossom perfume the space between them.

It's a very brief thing, and luckily there’s enough distance from Alec’s siblings, so no one else becomes aware of this accident. They both clear their throat, then Alec takes a deep breath – ugh, what a mistake! Magnus’ sweet scent – because it’s Magnus’, of course – deepens into Alec’s nostrils, summoning inappropriate images of a very naked Magnus under him. Inappropriate, disrespectful, and also dangerous, because no one knows that Alec likes boys. Only boys.

Okay, times have been changed and though the Clave still reprimands “unnatural acts”, no one blames you too much if you want to have some fun, as long as discreetly. But when it comes to reality, no way that a same-sex committed relationship or, god forbids, marriage, can happen. Shadowhunter society needs recruits – cannon fodder – so having children is mandatory, as soon as possible. Unfortunately, this means a man-woman interaction. Alec knows that among mundanes same-sex couples have means to become parents in different ways, but mundane things are frowned upon and essentially forbidden.

That’s why Alec didn’t dare to come out yet. His only hope could be to find a male Omega, but no one has ever heard of a male… wait.

How is a male Omega supposed to smell? Alec doesn’t know. But he decides right now he needs to make thorough inquiries.

**

Magnus is trying to clear his mind. What’s happening? This enticing smell…it can belong only to Alec – it’s the most charming one he’s ever sniffed. And the worst is that it triggered his own smell. Oh-my-God… Does it mean that…?

He dares not complete his thought, that’s rather terrifying itself. He needs to know more. Asking the Silent Brothers? On what basis? And honestly, he has always found them quite creepy. The Institute library? Maybe. He feels his heart clench a bit when he thinks he could have asked his mom: she would get him the right answer. But he can’t, and this makes him feel so lonely.

He's still deep in thought when the alarms blare and the lights flash and the Ops center bursts with sudden feverish activity. The three Lightwood siblings gather in front of the screen showing a map of the city, a few red points pulsing on it, allegedly where the demon activity is being registered. Eventually, every Institute does look the same.

Alec is taking the lead, barking orders here and there, and people just obey, quick and efficient. They clearly trust him, and Magnus must say he might be a bit turned on by Alec’s Alpha authority – he must be an Alpha, given his scent and, well, everything -  even if he’s aware of the possible dangers they’re going to face. Yet, having Alec as commander seems to make everyone calm and steady.

Finally, Alec realizes that Magnus is still there, waiting. Magnus moves closer to him. “What do you need me for, Alexander?”

“Are you armed?” he asks quickly.

“Yes, sir. I have my sword and my chakrams, I can say I’m extremely skilled with them.”

Alec smirks. “We’ll see. Meanwhile…” he grabs Magnus’ arm and stares at him, pointing a finger on his chest, “don’t-call-me-Alexander, okay?”

Magnus smiles in return.

“Yes, sir”, and this single word elicits some elated butterflies in his stomach.

Chapter Text

Prompt 4: Courage in combat rune

They gather just outside the Institute, everyone wearing their combat gears. They hastened to find one for Magnus too, because his colored clothes – still those he wore the day of his arrival, he’d really need to do some shopping but he has no money – would make him stand out like a sore thumb, putting in danger him and the whole group: even demons seem to be attracted by colors.

The computer report indicates an abandoned warehouse next to the city center as the location of the main demon nest, so Alec has ordered three different patrols, lead by himself, Jace and Andrew Underhill, their Head of Security, a kind – and handsome - beta totally devoted to Alec. Everyone armed to the teeth, they’re just waiting for their orders.

“Magnus, you’re with me,” Alec says, “we’re going to approach the warehouse from three sides, East, West and South, since the North side is connected to the nearest building. Andrew, you take South, Jace West, I’ll take East. I’ll go inside first, be careful and wait until I’ll give you the green light. Have each other’s back and stay safe.”

Everyone picks their stele and starts drawing runes. Alec approaches Magnus. “You’re with me, Magnus. How much experience do you have in fighting this kind of demons?”

Magnus clears his throat. “Unfortunately not that much. I mean…no experience at all. I told you that our city has always been rather quiet and our life uneventful. Of course I did my gap year abroad, in Tokyo to be precise, but you know, rookies and guest young shadowhunters aren’t usually allowed to join the most dangerous operations. I’m sorry I’m not going to be that useful, but I can guarantee I won’t be a liability.”

“What about your skills with weapons?”

“I’ve always trained a lot, so I’m good with my sword and I’m exceptionally skilled with my chakrams, I told you. I promise,” Magnus says, “I’ve got six and I’m able to throw them so as they come back to me after hitting their target. Don’t you believe me, Alexander?” Magnus adds, looking at Alec’s disbelieving glance.

Alec smiles. “I believe you, Magnus.” Then he becomes more serious. “You’d better be honest, because Camio demons are tricky. If you cut them a limb, they can pick it up and reattach it to their body. So you have to destroy it completely. They have wings, since they look like birds, but these end with a claw and talons. They also can shift to a human form holding a sharpened sword. All in all, be very careful and stay next to me, okay? Spare your weapons until you’re sure of hitting your target.”

Magnus lets his flirting attitude drop, it’s not the right moment. “Trust me, Alec. I can follow orders.” Alec puts a comforting hand on his arm. “I trust you.”

Then he realizes that Magnus has no stele to draw his runes.

“Magnus, by the Angel, why didn’t you remind me you don’t have a stele? Were you going to go into a fight without runes? Couldn’t you ask me?”

A small smile appears on Magnus’ lips. “Sorry, I didn’t want to bother you…”

Alec rolls his eyes. “Come here,” he orders, and starts refreshing runes on Magnus’ skin, accuracy, agility, deflect, equilibrium, enhanced vision... When Alec is to touch this last one, Magnus hesitates for a little while. It’s on his neck and the neck is quite a tricky part of the body, for an Omega, to offer to an almost stranger. More also, Magnus doesn’t even know if Alec is aware he’s an Omega. Even if he knew, though, Magnus is sure that Alec wouldn’t do anything without his consent. And they’re going into a battle, so he’d better be able to see around clearly, so he nods and tilts his head towards Alec. Who suddenly hesitates too: what if Magnus IS actually an Omega? What did that scent mean? It would mean to touch a somehow intimate part of Magnus’ body. But he gave his consent, right? Ugh, he can’t let himself be distracted!

Then he looks thoughtful. “Do you have the courage-in-combat rune somewhere?”

Magnus smirks. “I should take my shirt off to show you, Alexander…”

Oh no, his neck, his chest…

Alec stares at him, then sighs. “Do it!” he orders, his voice suddenly high-pitched. Magnus obeys and Alec takes a deep breath, because that damn rune lies exactly on Magnus’ left pec and…shit, Alec can’t help but stop, his stele an inch above the rune, gathering all his courage to touch his hairless tan skin.

“It’s okay, Alec,” Magnus whispers. So Alec grabs Magnus’ shoulder to keep him still and slowly draws the symbol, licking his lips. After that, he swallows hard, and he looks strangely sweaty.

“Let’s go!” he orders, and the three patrols start running towards their destination.

**

This abandoned warehouse where they’re slowly moving, trying to find and destroy the Camio demons’ nest, is plunged into darkness. Despite their runes, they are blinking to adjust their sight, and walk in very slowly, senses sharpened to catch any possible danger. At Alec’s gesture, the three patrols split to their assigned positions, and Alec enters first, an arrow already notched and the bowstring pulled back. They all scrunch their noses since the smell assaulting them is terrible, like a pile of garbage left to rot under the summer sun, but it’s also useful since it helps them to point to the nest.

And here it is. Three adults, enormous crows-like, possibly brooding some eggs. Magnus shivers and flinches when he feels a hand circling his wrist: it’s Alec, grounding him. Yes, he can do this.

As silently as possible, Alec takes his stele from his pocket and draws a fire rune on the nocked arrow, then shoots. The arrow falls in the center of the nest which catches fire almost immediately. The adults’ screech is deafening. They escape the fire and open their black wings, launching towards the enemy.

If Magnus could pause the action for a moment, he could stare in awe at the incredibly coordinated action the patrols are carrying out, Alec’s being the first one to attack, Jace’s covering them, Andrew’s ready to throw the last blow. It’s a dance of jumping and deflecting and rolling, of swords sparkling in the dark, cutting wings, beaks and talons and arrows alternatively piercing and burning limbs. Magnus finds himself astonished by the way Alec and Jace fight together without talking nor hinting to each other, both perfectly aware of what the other one is going to do or move: it’s the magic of the parabatai link, Magnus already witnessed it, but theirs is almost supernatural.

Three patrols, soon each one facing their own adult, also trying to avoid the extreme heat and the roaring fire. After a brief hesitation, Magnus joins the battle, throwing his blades with steady arm, his training quickly kicking in: the chakrams come back filthy with a sort of black oily substance that should be the monsters’ blood, so they hit their target, and Magnus is proud of himself, somehow. His dad was right, hard training is saving his own life and his fellow shadowhunters’ too.

**

The battle is over. The flames have been extinguished with a couple of runes and the nest is destroyed. The adults lie on the dirty floor, almost totally dismembered, but anyone is wondering why they didn’t disappear, as it usually happens when demons are dead. They know these ones are especially hard to kill, but they are actually dead, right?

Alec bends to carefully inspect one of them, then stands up and turns to talk to Jace, when Magnus realizes that the beast is still weakly moving. Not so weakly, though, because it’s on the verge of impaling Alec with his residual talon. In a flash, Magnus understands that it’s too late for warning Alec to deflect and screaming “Alec, watch out!”, he launches himself between Alec and the monster, at the same time throwing a blade to the claw. But it’s too late. The chakram severs the claw from the body, but the talon has already pierced Magnus chest.

Magnus cries out and falls, rolling far from the demon, while Alec hits it with a last fire arrow and Jace runs towards Magnus, cradling his head and trying to stop the bleeding. Andrew immediately starts to draw iratzes, but they don’t seem to work too much. The bleeding slows a bit, but the wound is still gaping, and Magnus struggles to breathe.

Alec runs to Magnus’ side, taking his hand in his. They are both trembling, from pain and exhaustion and fear.

“Fuck, Magnus, I told you to be careful. Why did you do that?”

Magnus’ words are whispered and broken, he’s wincing and groaning while he feels his whole body on fire.

“I…couldn’t let you…die…” He swallows. “You have a family…to come to…I have no one…”

“Alec,” Jace urges, “we need to bring him to the Silent Brothers or call for a warlock, the iratzes are not working enough.”

“It must be the poison,” Andrew adds.

Alec nods. “You’re right, we’d better run.” He gently squeezes Magnus’ hand. “Thank you for saving my life, Magnus.” But Magnus has already passed out and can’t hear him.

**

They bring Magnus to the infirmary as soon as they can, aware that time is crucial, and they call Ragnor, eventually, since he knows Magnus already and there’s no need to explain to some Brother who Magnus is and why he’s in New York. Ragnor rushes to the Institute, but he’s not alone, introducing another warlock, a black woman in her late twenties. Here and there, some grumbles at Catarina’s presence can be heard, but Alec’s glare is enough to make them vanish into thin air.

“She’s Catarina Loss,” Ragnor tells Alec, “she’s a far better healer than me, maybe the most brilliant healer I’ve ever met.”

The woman – Catarina – offers her hand to shake. “Glad to meet you, Mr. Lightwood”, but her look is slightly suspicious. She came here on Ragnor’s plead, that doesn’t mean she trusts some shadowhunter. But Ragnor has been unusually pressuring and she wonders why, determined to ask for further explanations later, when this Ragnor’s protegé will be safe – if possible.

Alec takes her hand between his. “Thank you so much for coming, Ms. Loss, and it’s Alec.”

She smiles at this very young warrior, so kind and respectful. “And it’s Cat for you. Now take me to my patient.”

When they enter the infirmary, Cat bends onto Magnus. She picks his wrist, then checks on his pupils, then on his wound, just like any mundane nurse could do. Well, in the mundane world she’s actually a nurse, since when she chose to live among humans and help them. But then she raises her hands and a pale blue light erupts from them, spreading onto Magnus’ body and enveloping it.

“Camio, right?” she says, and Alec nods, concern keeping him on his toes. Meanwhile, all the members of the three patrols have gathered in the infirmary, trying to get news about Magnus, even if they’re all still dirty and bruised, and their weapons are in need of an urgent cleaning. After all, he saved Alec’s life throwing his own on the plate, and they can only be grateful, especially Jace.

After a few endless minutes – one minute only, actually, but it looked like an hour – Catarina retreats her magic and smiles.

“Don’t worry too much. Your iratzes helped to clean some of the poison. I’ll clean the rest in a couple of hours, then the wound will close and he’ll be fine after some rest, one or two days tops.”

Everyone breathes in relief. Alec closes his eyes, running a hand on his tired face.

“Thank you, thank you so much, Ms. Loss. He saved me, I couldn’t have forgiven myself if… Just tell me if you need anything. I’ll immediately arrange for your payment.”

“If you don’t mind…something to eat and drink, I came here straight from my shift and couldn’t have time for dinner. But I need it to sustain my magic and heal your friend.”

“Just say a word. Thank you again and thank you, High Warlock Fell.”

“Wait,” Catarina adds, and in a blur of blue magic, they’re all clean and healed from their minor injuries. They all nods in thanking and smile.

“Is Magnus conscious?” Alec asks. Catarina shakes her head. “Not yet, but you can touch him and make him feel you’re here.”

Alec moves next to the bed where Magnus lies. Some blood still oozes from the bandage wrapping his chest, but he’s not deadly pale anymore and his breath is steady. He lightly strokes Magnus’ hair, then his cheek.

“I wouldn’t have drawn that courage-in-combat rune, it almost cost you your life… but thank you,” he whispers, “I owe you, please come back soon...”

You’re so beautiful…

Chapter Text

Prompt 5: Mutual pining

Magnus slowly wakes up, his conscience floating towards the surface and it’s just like going from the darkness of deep-sea to the clarity of sky. He becomes aware of his limbs, one by one, then winces while taking a deeper breath, a painful reminder of what happened yesterday. Eyes still shut, he lifts a hand and touches the bandage wrapping his chest, groaning. Fuck, it hurts. He’s never been badly injured, so this is actually new, and not pleasant at all. Ugh, an experience he would have gladly done without, though he suspects that New York shadowhunters must be used to it, and that it’s going to be usual for him too.

A bit of sunlight is shining behind his closed eyes. Where is he? An infirmary, probably. Even the Surabaya Institute had one, although mostly inactive. The events of the day before slowly come back to his mind, the nest, the horrible Camio demons, the fight… Magnus smiles at himself: he saved Alexander’s life, wow! So, he’s not that bad as a warrior, somehow he’s giddy he could show them he can fight. He wonders if his fellows could retrieve his chakrams: he’s very affectionate to those blades, they’re his truly favorite weapons, and they were a gift from his dad when he got his first rune. The thought of his family makes his heart clench, and he sighs, forgetting that he shouldn’t. A bolt of pain strikes through him again.

Shit! he thinks.

But he can’t stay lying anymore, he needs to move a bit, he’s thirsty and hungry, and he needs to…pee.

He opens his eyes, finally. It’s an infirmary, right, large, immaculate and well stocked, as much as he can see, the metal furniture shining under the sun. He’s alone, no trace of patients or nurses or medics, and he wonders how he could call for help, if necessary. Then he notices the eye of a camera just above his head – and above every bed – and the monitors recording his vital activities. There’s probably someone outside supervising the patients and receiving information from the beeping machines.

He tries to sit down, hoping to put his feet on the floor, but the effort tires him too much and he braces himself against the sharp pain. He falls back on the pillow with a huff: fuck, is there anyone who can help him?

At that moment, a nurse enters his room, looking serious and efficient.

“Stay down,” he barks, “doctor’s orders. Bedrest until tomorrow at least.”

Magnus pouts, but he can’t deny he’s weak and hurting, maybe some more rest will do good to him.

“Water?” the nurse asks. Magnus nods. “Yes please, and I’m hungry too.”

“That’s a good sign, your body is healing. I’ll bring you something.”

“And…I need to go to the restroom…” Magnus adds, grimacing.

The nurse smiles, and suddenly he doesn’t look so surly anymore. He’s doing his job, Magnus thinks.

“I can help you,” the nurse says, and with some effort Magnus is standing, even if his knees are buckling a little. Ugh, he does need some bedrest yet.

**

Alec has been busy as fuck the whole day, and he hasn’t even had a moment to catch up with Magnus. The Camio nest they destroyed showed to be not the single one in the city, few patrols were scattered and now Alec needs to deal with the usual, obnoxious paperwork that follows every operation, especially that big. Perks of being Head without being Head, he curses. At least, he’d have some decisional power and he’s sure he could manage this situation far better than his parents, who bark orders without a proper knowledge of what they’re facing and refuse to deal with the most annoying subsequent tasks. Like paperwork, right.

Looking at the documents piling up on his desk, he sighs. Such a waste of paper, he thinks. He throws his pen on the desk with a huff, then leans against the back of the armchair. His mind goes elsewhere, starting to daydream about…

Magnus

He’s an interesting guy, to say the least. If Alec wanted to be honest to himself, he’d say something else: gorgeous, witty, smart, gracious, did he say gorgeous already? Yes, he did. Alec found himself pining on some handsome guy before – always secretly, without letting anyone catch his gaze. He has never found enough courage to ask someone out, not even for a quick fuck. Too scared of the consequences and of his parents’ disapproval, though they perfectly know he’s going to fulfil his duty as a husband – to a girl – when his time comes. Lately, however, he sometimes wonders if he’ll be able to. Is he seriously prone to live a loveless life and make some random girl unhappy, just to obey the rules?

And his thoughts come back to Magnus. He saved his life, so Alec must be grateful and show him how much he appreciated his selfless gesture. Also, he was deeply touched when Magnus told him he was expendable, not having a family to come to. Once more, Alec regrets for being an ass the first time they met and promises to make amends for his rudeness. He needs to find time to check on him at the infirmary. Isabelle already told him Magnus is going to get better soon, that he’s awake and all in all not that bad, considering how dangerous the wound by a Camio demon is. However, Alec should admit this isn’t the only reason why his thoughts are full of Magnus. He’s never been so fascinated by anyone before. He rethinks of Magnus’ slender body, of his gracious movements, like he is a born dancer, of his entrancing eyes, so similar to a cat’s, of the tan nuance of his skin…and he can’t forget that mesmerizing whiff of…cherries? And something else, but this is what he remembers more acutely. He sighs again and his need of talking to Magnus becomes suddenly unstoppable.

**

Thanks to the (actually) kind nurse, Magnus has dealt with his bodily functions, could approximately freshen up and has been helped to bed again. Shit, he’s weaker than he thought, even with all his nonchalance, he must admit that the nurse was right. Some more rest will do, especially after a light dinner.

He feels much better now and he’s in less pain, so now his thoughts can come back to the gorgeous Lightwood. He’s really one of the most beautiful men he’s ever seen, although his forehead is too often marred by an almost perpetual frown. Magnus supposes that being the eldest son of the Heads might keep him under pressure. After all, Magnus has been in his shoes, and he felt the same way, even if Magnus’ parents were possibly softer than the Lightwoods. Dad scolded him, but not that much, and mom was kind and loving. Magnus devotes a tender thought to his lost family, but soon his mind comes back with Alexander. He wonders what that boy is hiding; even if Magnus always travelled his life somehow waltzing, he’s empathic and can easily get people’s mood. Mom used to say it was his Omega nature showing, tender and caring and eager to help and protect. And though Alexander brings his protecting attitude into his name, Magnus thinks he might need to be protected too. Something that Magnus already did and feels ready to do again.

He sighs. There’s so much he’d love to know about Alexander… Something frilly like his favorite color – provided that it’s not black – or his favorite movie – provided that he ever watched any, Magnus doubts that, seeing how serious and busy Alexander is. But also, debating strategies, one of Magnus’ best skills, or sharing with him his passion for history. And who can’t forget that Alexander, bless him, is also devastatingly handsome? Could he be into boys, or at least both ways? Would Magnus be so lucky? The glances Alexander threw at him could suggest some interest… And that heavenly smell, a whiff of which Magnus could catch for a little while, so intense to trigger his own?

If Magnus could move, he would go and find him, offering an excuse so as he could talk to him and test the waters. Unfortunately, he can’t. He only hopes that Alexander chooses to check on him soon, he can't wait and he doesn't even know why.

**

Someone gently raps at the door and Magnus’ heart does a small somersault: is his dream going to come true? Yes, it is! At his consent, Alexander’s smiling face peeks inside, followed by his attractive body – that’s Magnus’ first thought. He timidly walks until he’s next to Magnus’ bed.

“Hey, Magnus, how are you feeling?”

Magnus is torn between telling him the truth, that he’s much better, or a white lie, pretending to be still a little pained, to make Alexander comfort him. No, Alexander doesn’t deserve to feel more guilty than he surely does already…

“I’m much better, Alexander, thank you very much for coming and asking. Just one more day of bed rest and I’ll be as good as new, ready to come back to fight next to you…I mean, with all of you…”

How can a man be so adorable…? And at the same time exuding such strength and authoritativeness?

Magnus feels butterflies wildly storming inside his stomach and a whiff of caramel spreads in the air, making him flinch slightly. Shit, it’s the second time he loses control on his smell. His monthly dose of scent blockers should have been keeping him safe for a couple of weeks still. Or was it a side effect of the poisoning? But why only when he’s with Alexander?

Meanwhile, Alexander has taken his hand, maybe without even realize what he’s doing, his voice slightly trembling.

“I haven’t thanked you properly for saving my life, yet. But why did you do that, Magnus? You had never met such demons, fought any less, you could have died and… I couldn’t have forgiven myself for letting you sacrifice your life on my watch, barely your first day in New York!”

How can a man be so handsome and tempting… those eyes… those lips? And at the same time exuding such self-confidence and kindness of heart?

Alec feels butterflies wildly storming inside his stomach and sniffs the air around, catching the cherries scent, while a whiff of mint joins it. Alec made some research, and he’s almost sure Magnus is an Omega. That would be truly incredible…and exciting. But wouldn’t it be rude of him, asking Magnus like that, out of the blue?

They stare at each other for a while, then, almost at the same time, they clear their throats, and Alec drops Magnus’ hand like he’s being burned.

“Sorry, I… sorry…”

“Don’t apologize, Alexander. That was…very welcome…”

“Was it?”

Magnus nods.

“Magnus… I…”

Jace barges in, cheering up. “Hey Magnus! I see you’re doing great! I’m so glad, thanks for saving Alec’s life!” He hits hard his brother’s shoulder and Alec flinches.

“Maybe he’ll drop his grumpy ass for a while!”

Then Jace stops and sniffs around, without even pretending not to, and a slow, knowing smirk appears on his lips.

Cockblocker! Magnus thinks. But he smiles at Jace, after all he’s only a grateful brother and he’s also becoming a good friend for him.

Chapter Text

Prompt 6: Dancing

When Magnus walks in the Ops center, a couple of days after, he’s welcomed with smiles and hugs and smacks on his shoulders. He saved Alec’s life and everyone is grateful, and also happy that he’s fine now. Izzy hugs him especially tight, mouthing a “thank you” that’s for him and him alone. Even Maryse, a little less stiff than usual, moves next to him and offers her hand to shake, nodding: that’s possibly the highest award she might appoint, and Magnus, who’s been taught already about her coolness, willingly takes what he’s granted with.

He's happy, too. Not only because he made it and he’s alive, but also because he feels he has gained affection from them all, a further step into finding a new place where to live and find love and friendship. This mends a little his aching heart, thinking how proud dad and mom would be, watching him become brave and a real warrior. Magnus hopes there’s an afterlife from where his parents can see him and brag a little about their silly son.

Among so many cheering people, anyway, Alec’s gaze is the most brilliant one. His eyes sparkle with happiness, his smile is wide and unguarded and something very similar to a special kind of affection shines through it. He puts his hands on Magnus’ shoulders and a sort of electric power runs through him.

“Thank you again,” Alec says, “for saving my life and for helping us all to defeat those monsters. I can see you’re trained now, and skilled and courageous, all in all part of this family, if you wish. Without of course forgetting your previous family and keeping to honor them every day.”

Magnus is moved, and maybe he let a lonely tear slip, but he’s elated and ready to join the New York Institute as a member in his own right.

**

Omega males are very rare, a sort of trick of nature. They can’t be distinguished from Alpha or Beta males, despite being usually smaller and less built than Alphas but falling anyway into the average Betas measures. Though they do possess reproductive organs that allow them to carry pups, their features are not less masculine than average again, and there’s no way they can stand out among a group of shadowhunter males for looking more delicate or feminine at all. Their sexual primary and secondary characters are kept, so they have penis and testicles, sport beards and might be differently hairy with regard to their origin. Distribution of male Omegas is unknown owing to the small number of specimens available, but it’s supposed to be equal among all ethnicities. The only real way to detect Omega males is their smell, usually sweeter and more floral than the average males’ belonging to other secondary genders.

During these last few weeks, Alec has desperately tried to find information on this topic lately, sacrificing his already very strained free time. It’s becoming a thing he can’t help but think about, and he doesn’t even know why he’s so obsessed. Truth is that he’s falling quick and hard for Magnus but still struggles to come out of the closet. Maybe it would be easier, being Magnus an Omega. He could make his parents come to terms with his gayness, making them sure he could have pups of his own blood, allowing their lineage to go on.

Yes, but what if Magnus doesn’t want pups? Being an Omega doesn’t mean yearning for pups, many Omega girls don’t. Couldn’t an Omega man be even less prone to face pregnancy and delivery, probably fearing to be a target for morbid curiosity? And after all, having pups is anyway a big change in life, Alec knows that he’d be bound to be respectful of Magnus’ choices.

Again, this book, the only one he could find in the Institute library talking about this topic, does not offer further information, so Alec is still at the starting point: he doesn’t know how to understand if Magnus is Omega or not. The only feeble trace has been that sweet scent he could catch, but it was so brief, such a hinted whiff…not enough to be sure. Asking him? That would be extremely rude of Alec!

Alec sighs and closes the volume.

If he really looks deep into his heart, that’s not what he wants. He wants Magnus, no matter if he’s an Omega or not. Why should he let himself be misguided by a stupid sense of honor towards his family? And anyway, what’s honor? Is there honor in living a lie, stick to traditions that means nothing, old and wrecked as they are? Nothing in their sacred Books – that Alec studied very attentively – says anything about love between same sex people. They recommend many things: courage, self-sacrificing, love, care, honesty, faith, justice…but this? It’s a human invention, bigotry to keep their society under strict control. They are not only taught how to fight or to draw runes, but also how to behave, to live their lives. Alec starts to believe that there must be another way to go on.

He wrings his hands and takes a deep breath: he’s going to ask Magnus out, the Clave, his own parents, the whole fucking Shadow world be damned!

**

Magnus is on cleaning duty today. Not as a punishment, of course, but he feels like he has to earn the hospitality the Newyorkers gave him. He knows he’s not a guest here anymore, they all are so nice to him, but he does want to be of use and show that he doesn’t disdain even the humblest tasks, so here he is, merrily whistling during this honestly disgusting work. To protect his hands he’s wearing gloves – unusually – and a small mask to protect his nose from the most terrible smells that come from weapons covered with ichor and other awful stuff. This tedious job also lets his mind free of daydreaming, being Alexander the subject of said dreams.

God, he’s so beautiful. Sassy when it’s time for giving orders and fighting, but beyond gentle in everyday life, and somehow shy. Magnus suspects that he’s into guys – something Magnus would appreciate, a lot – but also that he’s still in the closet. The New York Institute seems more restricted and regressive than his old Institute, where people didn’t give an actual fuck about sexual habits. So, Magnus would like to flirt a bit, but doesn’t want to embarrass Alec, even he sometimes fantasizes about Alec bossing him around in bedroom….

He clears his throat, since, just as he was summoned by Magnus’ ruminations, Alexander appears on the doorstep, paler than usual and clearly on the edge. What’s happening?

“Hey…” Alec greets him.

“Good morning, Alexander… Are you okay?” he adds, becoming aware of Alec’s anxiety.

Alec comes closer to him. “Can we talk?” he asks.

“By the Angel, Alexander, you’re scaring me… You look so serious? What’s wrong?”

Alec sways a little on the ball of his feet, his hands clutched on his back, and swallows repeatedly.

“I’m…” He huffs and puffs his cheeks up.

“You…?”

“Magnus, I was wondering if you… I want to ask you out. Would you come with me on a date?”

Magnus is so astonished that he can’t immediately find enough voice to answer.

“It’s okay if you don’t want to,” Alec hastens to say, “I know you could have everyone and I’m not…”

“Yes!” Magnus exclaims.

“You mean…yes?”

“Alexander, yes means yes, it’s not that hard to catch, right? What do you have in mind?”

“I…know you like dancing, I’m not much of a dancer, but I was thinking, maybe…you could teach me… What about Pandemonium? I’m sure Izzy had talked to you about it.”

Magnus smiles tenderly. “I’d love that…” he says. Then he takes off his gloves and takes Alec’s hands between his own, holding them.

“Thank you, Alexander.” Alec’s smile puts the sun to shame.

**

They are dancing.

This looks incredible already to Alec, who can’t wrap his mind around both having found enough courage to ask Magnus out – he still needs to face his parents and the whole Institute, though – and realizing that Magnus said yes, and he’s currently swaying quietly with him, his arms around Alec’s neck, Alec’s arms around his waist.

Clubbing is not Alec’s thing, and dancing any less, but everything becomes easier with Magnus. When they entered Pandemonium, a very famous club among both Shadowhunters and Downworlders – but there are humans too, especially those having the Sight – Alec had been overwhelmed by stroboscopic lights and loud music, the bass thumping inside him like a heartbeat. Also, he was a little scared, he knew that coming here was already something his parents would frown upon, since Pandemonium was a well-known Downworlders gathering, precisely the reason why Alec’s siblings liked it and had recommended him for a dancing evening with Magnus. First, Alec has been rather clumsy, his long, lanky body refusing to move with music rhythm, despite the grace any shadowhunter does possess, mostly swaying on the spot and barely moving his arms. But then, either by Magnus’ gentle encouragement or Alec loosening a bit, dancing has become easier, almost natural, or maybe since now Alec doesn’t give a fuck about how he looks. All his glances are for Magnus, he has eyes for him only. Not that Magnus acts differently.

They’re slowly dancing now, small smiles on their lips. The sweet, romantic music seems to fit so perfectly what they’re feeling, everything precisely clicking between the two of them, like they’ve been knowing each other since the beginning of time. Is this what fills your heart when you meet your soulmate? None of them knows actually. They’re lost in each other’s eyes, in the softness of the few spots where their skins touch, in the small dimples of their smiling faces, in their mingling breaths. So as, little by little, they come so close that there’s no space left between them, their bodies pressed together, and now it’s so easy, even their lips get closer, until, almost imperceptibly, they find themselves kissing.

**

They walk back to the Institute hand in hand, under a full moon displaying, unaware of time, of distance, of the smooth tiredness permeating their bodies, a divine languor that has no resemblance with the harsh exhaustion after training or patrolling. The night could last forever, and they wouldn’t care. They stop under a streetlamp which envelopes them in golden light. They kiss again and, in that light, they start swaying at the sound of a music only they can hear, a dance of two hearts which recognized themselves.

**

There’s an alley just around the building, filthy and dark, where not even the moonlight can enter. Eyes watching the happy couple under the streetlamp, a shadow silently blending into the blackness.

Chapter Text

Prompt 7: Kiss on the nose

It’s late when they enter the Institute after their date, most of the halls are plunged into darkness. Shadowhunters who are not on patrols or on guard duty at the Ops center, are used to go to bed early and enjoy a few hours of deep sleep, as long as they can. There’s often an emergency or an unplanned mission, it can happen any time, day or night, apart from their regular service, so they rest if and when they can, as the good soldiers they are. Only a few of them sometimes sneak through the side exit to try mundane things like clubs or cinemas – mundane things are frown upon and more so, no one might want to be surprised as unavailable or untraceable in case of emergency – among them Jace and Izzy. Alec covered for them many times: he doesn’t share their interest in life outside the Institute walls, but can’t help but be a little lenient towards his siblings, always thinking he’s the eldest and most responsible one, while they are young and deserve some fun. What he usually forgets is that he’s always been the most responsible, even when he was as young as they are now, or even younger.

Anyway, when Magnus and Alec are back, they quietly walk in the Ops center, without realizing they’re still holding hands. Jace and Izzy are in charge for the night and are thoroughly examining the screens reporting the demon presence all around the city. When they hear footsteps, they turn at the same time and two knowing smiles appear on their lips, while their gazes fall on the joined hands.

“I knew it!” Jace exclaims, then smirking at Izzy. “Iz, you owe me ten bucks, baby!”

Izzy pouts.

“Hey,” she complains, “I bet you would wait one more week, you morons!”

Alec blushes, but doesn’t let Magnus’ hand go.

“Wait, you bet…what?”

“Yup,” Jace answers, “we were guessing when you would start dating, and I won! Sooner than Izzy expected to,” he adds, smugly.

Izzy moves closer to them. “Just remember that we’re happy for you. We’ve been knowing for a long time that you weren’t interested in girls, Alec, and that’s more than okay. But you had the right to come out at your time and pace, or not come out at all, so we’d been waiting until you were ready.”

His siblings hug him, then Jace opens an arm to include Magnus in the group hug.

But just before Magnus joins them, Jace looks him straight in the eye.

“Be careful with my brother. Otherwise, I’ll kill you and hide the corpse, and no one will find it ever again!”

Magnus starts laughing, then nods and hugs the group back.

**

“What are you going to do with mom and dad, Alec?” Izzy asks after a while, when they’re on their own.

Alec sighs. “I…don’t know? But believe me, I don’t want to hide anymore, I don’t want to lie, anymore. I thought I should follow the rules and marry a nice girl and have pups with her, everything to make our parents happy and proud of me. But what about me being proud of myself? What about the happiness I do believe it might be mine? I want that happiness, Izzy. Our lives are dangerous and often so brief, I don’t want to waste a minute of it. I don’t even know where this thing with Magnus will lead us, or if it’s something real and lasting, but I want to try, to give myself, us, a chance. And I hope Magnus is on the same page.”

“I don’t doubt that, Alec, I see how he looks at you. It might not be love yet, but it’s already much more than a crush.”

Alec smiles. “I do hope so. That’s why he’s not going to be my dirty secret. I won’t do anything to pretend I’m not into him before the world.”

**

It’s way past midnight, but they don’t want to part. They’re sitting on the small, wornout couch in one of the living rooms, their bodies brushing, their hands intertwined. It’s a game of talks, of jokes, of glances, of smiles. Magnus tells Alec something about his childhood and his life in Surabaya, talks to him about his family and his fellow Indonesian shadowhunters, and all his memories are painful and sweet at the same time, because he’s sharing them with someone he cares about and who cares about him. He talks about his studies, his passion and his dreams.

Alec tells Magnus about the hard training they all have in New York and of the exceptionally harsh one he was submitted to, as firstborn of the Heads and their next in line. He shares his opinions about ruling an Institute and how a stricter collaboration between the different groups forming the Shadow World could improve the fight against demons and the protection of humans – finally, this is the main task for Shadowhunters, right?

They look at each other, and the world disappears, they don’t realize it’s so late and tomorrow they’re going to carry out their duties in a daze from lack of sleep. Does it matter? Not at all.

A sudden silence falls between them.

“You’re adorable, you know that?” Alec says quietly, but sure as he’s never been of everything else in his life.

Magnus blushes slightly and squeezes his hand.

“You’re not that bad yourself, Alexander…” he replies.

Alec clears his throat, then takes a deep breath, like he’s going to engage in a hard task.

“Magnus, I…um…what about some other dates? I’m asking for your permission…to court you…”

Magnus looks at him curiously. “I didn’t make you so old-fashioned, Alexander. You’re an Alpha, right?”

“Er…yes…is that a hindrance? We don’t usually share information about our second gender, unless we’re interested in building…I mean, something more than a friendship…”

“Yes, I mean, no, it’s not a problem. Even in my previous Institute we used to wear scent blockers to keep private things…private. But there’s something you should know about me, Alexander.”

Alec makes a gesture to go on, but…should he be concerned?

“I’d love to have more dates with you, Alexander, and I’m honored about your courting proposal. So, you’re going to come out to your family and friends, and the whole Institute, right? You…don’t mean to keep this, whatever it is, as a secret?”

“Of course not. Unless you want to. I’m sick and tired of lies, I want that everyone, the whole world, knows that I’m gay. I like boys, for heaven’s sake, and there’s nothing to be ashamed about that!”

He takes both Magnus’ hands in his and kisses their back.

“You could never be my dirty secret, Magnus, no matter where this relationship might bring us, whether it stays as a good friendship or becomes something more. But I want to try this chance for happiness. If you agree, of course.”

Magnus sighs. “I want it too, Alexander. But, as I said before, you need to know that…I’m…Omega…”

Magnus speaks so quietly that Alec is unsure of what he heard.

“You are what?” he asks.

Magnus lifts his gaze from their joined hands to Alec’s eyes, fearing to find in them disgust and rejection.

“A male Omega,” Magnus repeats louder.

Alec slowly smiles, and reaches at Magnus with his hand, gently caressing his cheek and starting to leave tiny kisses on his forehead, his eyelids, his cheeks, finally on his lips.

“You’re so beautiful…” he whispers.

Magnus lifts his own hand and grabs Alec’s wrist, kissing the inside of it.

“I have to admit I thought so, when I caught your scent, and anyway, what’s wrong in being a male Omega?” he tells Magnus, “you’re even more beautiful and powerful, able to carry pups, and being a strong warrior as well. That’s incredible!”

Magnus shrugs. “I don’t know, I always thought I was kind of a freak…”

Alec puts a finger on Magnus’ mouth. “Shut up…” he says, and leaves a peck on his nose, then another and another one, until it becomes an eskimo kiss and Magnus laughs, his heart brimming with joy.

“Do you want pups, Alexander?”

Alec becomes suddenly serious, caught off-guard.  

“Um…yes? I’ve always found myself in a tricky position, bound by rules and by my family name to give life to a new generation of warriors. I thought I would have never been able to fulfil this duty, marrying some random girl just for ‘reproductive purposes’ is disgusting and inappropriate. I don’t want to be unhappy my whole life and make my wife unhappy as well, since I would never love her like she would deserve. But, that said, yes, I’d love to be a dad. Not for obeying my parents or the Clave, just …I like kids and I like the idea of raising some. But if this is not your thing, Magnus, we don’t have to. We can adopt or not have children at all, it’s up to you. It takes two to be parents, both willingly. By the Angel, I’m going a bit too fast, right?” He blushes. “We’re still on a starting point and don’t know where all this can bring us, yet…”

Magnus kisses him sweetly, while their scents slowly spread around, mingling beautifully.

“I think we’re already being on track, darling.”

**

Alec feels he’s just laid down his head on the pillow when the alarm-clock rings, and it’s time for a new day to start. He’s usually awake way before the set hour, and this tells a lot about how late it was yesterday…well, today…when he and Magnus parted. But nothing can’t tamper his cheerful mood now. Magnus accepted his courting. Magnus kissed him. Their scents popped up and he’s sure he’s never smelt anything more enticing than Magnus’ sweet perfume.

He takes a quick shower and since his stomach is growling, he heads for the Institute cafeteria to have breakfast. Magnus is already there, thoughtfully sitting alone, but when their eyes meet, they both smile happily.

Do what’s right, Alec! he says to himself: straightening his shoulders, he walks towards Magnus’ table, and before sitting across him, kisses him deeply on the lips, feeling Magnus’ smile under his.

There’s a faint hum in the cafeteria, but when they look around, ready to fight, they only find gentle smiles, thumbs up and glasses raised in toasting.

They have a pleasant breakfast, making small talk but mostly exchanging adoring glances, until Maryse Lightwood in the flesh is seen marching through the room, heading for their table.

“Magnus, Alec, a word in my office. Now.”

**

They’re sitting across Maryse’s armchair at her desk, concern in their eyes when they’re waiting for her.

Alec squeezes Magnus’ hand and feels him squeeze his in turn.

“What do you think she needs us for?” Magnus asks.

“I don’t have the slightest idea, but believe me, Magnus, I won’t let her tear us apart. That’s the only thing I’m sure of, whatever it takes.”

“We’re in this together, Alexander. But honestly, I don’t think that scolding us for dating would be worth such a formal summon.”

The door opens abruptly and Maryse walks in, her heels clacking on the hard wood floor. She sits at her desk, joins her hand and looks at them for a few moments before starting to speak.

“I’m sure you’re wondering why I summoned you. There’s something crucial I need to tell you. It came to my ear that you started…dating? You made a show in the cafeteria this morning, so it’s hard to deny, right?”

Alec tries to stop her. “Mom, if you’re going to…” but she lifts a hand in warning.

“Don’t interrupt me. And this is an order for both of you, just answer my questions. I was saying… You started dating or at least hanging around together, but I’m not wrong if I say this looks serious. I’ve already noticed the looks you exchanged before, but now you made it totally clear this is important for you. Alec?”

“It is, mom…I mean, ma’am. Magnus means a lot to me. I don’t know if it’s going to be for life but…I like Magnus, very much, and I’m going to court him, and if you have anything to say about the fact that he’s a guy, I…”

“The fact that he’s a guy is the least of my concern, Alec. What about you, Magnus?”

“Same for me, ma’am. I like Alec and I’m totally fine with the courting thing, even if I believe it’s a bit too old-fashioned. But if this is what Alexander desires, I’m in and I’m flattered by his interest towards me.”

Maryse sighs and looks suddenly older.

“There’s something I need to tell you, and this is also related to the circumstances that brought you here, Magnus, and to Ragnor’s focus about you. You should know…”

The alarm starts blaring and red lights turn on everywhere. Something very dangerous is happening. They all stand up, hearing some commotion outside the office, screams and thuds that sound like…people fighting and bodies thrown against the walls…

The door bursts open, the leaves thrown at the sides, almost unhinged by sheer force, and in a cloud of purple magic a great demon appears. Behind him, the ops center is a mess of crashed computers, broken desks and bleeding bodies on the floor.

“Sorry for killing the mood,” he says, “but it’s nice to find you all gathered here. Is there a party ongoing?”

Maryse tries to collect all her courage and dignity. “Who are you and how did you enter the Institute without being destroyed?”

“Right, where are my manners?” he answers sweetly, “I’m Asmodeus, at your service, Maryse Trueblood…well, maybe not at your complete service, but still… What do they teach you these days? Greater Demons are immune to your Nephilim magic, especially me, since I used to be an Angel, you know…”

Maryse, Magnus and Alec unsheathe their weapons but with a gesture the demon makes the swords fly away. Angry and scared at the same time, Magnus feels something powerful surging inside him, a force he can’t control, a warmth bordering to scorching heat, until he lifts his arms above his head and a shining blue shield made of light raises between the demon and the shadowhunters.

Alec and Maryse look at him gaping, no more astonished than Magnus himself anyway, who stares at his arms in disbelief, letting them fall while the shield disappears.

Asmodeus smirks.

“What do you want?” Maryse asks harshly.

“Well, well…no need to be so rude. Why don’t we sit down and talk? There’s something I have to tell you and you’d better be very focused and attentive. Shall we?”

Chapter Text

Prompt: this guilty blood

Maryse, Alec and Magnus sit, or better, fall down on the couch, Magnus slightly trembling while Alec, pale as a ghost, takes his hand, letting him lean against the Alpha’s strong body. Alec is scared, he looks at Magnus and sees how terrified he is, and he’s worried because none of them understands what’s happening. But when he throws a glance at Maryse, he gets that she might know something they’re not aware of. Meanwhile, Asmodeus hasn’t dropped his smirk yet, even if Alec can read a bit of…pity? in his look… shit, no way, Asmodeus is a greater demon, so he’s unable of feeling empathy!

Anyway, the demon sits on the armchair across the couch, legs crossed, relaxed and clearly ready for long explanations.

“Well, well,” he says, “I suppose I’ll have to start from the very beginning, maybe cutting some details but still, even if I suspect that Mrs. Lightwood won’t be so surprised.”

Maryse swallows, her face stony, though.

“You already know that I was told part of the story when I was asked to keep Magnus under my custody, though maybe even Mr. Fell didn’t know everything. I’d be very glad to be enlightened about this topic, since your knowledge seems more detailed.”

Alec turns abruptly towards Maryse. “Mom…what the hell…?”

Asmodeus bursts in a belly laugh. “Haha, hearing a son of the Angel call upon Hell is something I didn’t believe I could witness, ever…” Then he becomes serious. “Stop with nonsense now. To begin with, we need to come back in time, when a ferocious battle between Angels happened. Our Father had decided we should have been bound to love and serve humankind, but a few among us didn’t accept to bend and obey this commandment. My brother Lucifer took the lead of the opponents, and we all fought against those who chose to remain faithful to the Boss, but unfortunately we were defeated and sent to rot in Hell, each of us ruling a different dimension to forbid us from building an alliance.”

Asmodeus’ look is frightening now, the memory of the past defeat still summoning his anger, and his eyes are red like fire, but he makes an effort, and his usually slit pupils appear once more. He smiles again.

“I was saying…we were sent to Hell and dear old Dad instructed your beloved Raziel – a minor Angel, I must say – to create this new mixed race, you Nephilim, to protect humans from us. But while Michael was spearing him, Lucifer could cast a curse on this race: from their very loins a man would be born who would be their…bane. And here we come to you, dear Magnus. Asmodeus, my namesake, sometimes I wonder if our King wanted to have some extra fun with him, Asmodeus, I was saying, loved you, so much…even you weren’t his son by blood. He knew. He knew that your mom had been raped inside their own home and that your true sire was a demon, a great demon…guess who?” Asmodeus laughs. “I’m proud of you, Magnus, you know? It’s been a great honor for me, being chosen for becoming your father. You’re actually an only son, Magnus…but not Asmodeus’… well, the Asmodeus you knew. Your mom has been the perfect choice. Being a shadowhunter, she would have given you her blood, you would have been a shadowhunter yourself, but with magic. A powerful magic in a human being with superhuman abilities, the perfect mole. And an Omega male, a rare, precious thing able to carry pups!”

Asmodeus leans forward. 

“You’re bound to be great, Magnus, more than you can imagine. You’re going to be the tool for an unimaginable change for mankind. Just come with me, leave this Earth plan and these weak beings and join those who are worthy. Join me and our King!”

Magnus is shaking his head in disbelief. It can’t be, he’s a Nephilim, he fights demons for a living, it’s his sacred duty, he’s a warrior of the Angels, he’s… one of the good guys. He starts crying silently, while the horror of this revelation makes it way inside his mind and soul. Alec’s hand squeezes his, grounding him.

“NO!” he screams. “I won’t be the devil’s tool, ever! My dad might have not sired me but loved me and this matters, more than everything. My mom loved me. You and your King can fuck off!”

Asmodeus smiles. “You’re right in one thing, Magnus. Dad Asmodeus loved you, so much that he raised you even if he knew. He knew about the prophecy and the curse, but also that he and Suri couldn’t conceive, and that your mom needed support and love for what she had been through. They could have aborted you, right. But they didn’t want to, they wanted a child so badly that…they decided to take the risk. Selfish? Maybe they were, knowing that their son could become the ruin of the Nephilim, but they were trustful that, raising you in love and justice, you would be protected from this curse.” He shrugs. “Delusional… They couldn’t get rid of you, anyway, the forces protecting your existence were too great.

“No,” Magnus repeats, “they were not delusional because they loved me and I’ve become a good person, a true Nephilim, and I’ll never, ever lend myself to your dirty plans. I’ll defend this family that is mine too, I’ll fight any monster threatening our world, I won’t let you destroy what is good, with my life. And if I have magic, with that too!”

“Wow, an honorable declaration, my son. But I think you can’t keep your promise. Magnus, you should know that you brought happiness to your parents, but you’re also responsible for their deaths and all your fellows’ in Surabaya. A strong attack, designed to kidnap you and bring you where you truly belong…” He stares at Magnus and his eyes are red again. “Next to me, to your real father, to rule with him, to fight together to destroy this cursed race… Pity that you weren’t there, such a lucky strike for you, but your fate has been only postponed. That stupid warlock convinced you to follow him and convinced this…woman to welcome you. It doesn’t matter, what are a couple of decades compared to millennia…eternity… because, like any other warlock, Magnus, you’re immortal…not invulnerable, as you could experience, but immortal, isn’t it beyond imagination?”

Then he turns to Maryse. “You knew too, Maryse, right?”

Alec watches her face shrink, it’s too clear that this is nothing new for her.

“Mom, that’s why Mr. Fell asked you to take Magnus among us?” 

She shuts her eyes, but when she opens them again her gaze is pure steel.

“I knew. Not everything, I didn’t know who Magnus’ father is. I was told Magnus was in great danger and represented himself an even greater danger for all of us. That I should have to protect him but without drawing attention. So, he should have spent an ordinary life, like any other Shadowhunter, hoping that we could hide him in plain sight, so to speak. And this is what he did, I was always keeping an eye on him.”

She stands up.

“I won’t let you take Magnus away from us. Over my dead body.”

Asmodeus laughs again. “Oh Maryse, this can be accommodated very easily…” and he lifts a hand, but Magnus is quicker and a blue shield immediately protects the woman.

“Wow, son, I’m proud of your abilities, I knew you would become a powerful warlock… Very well,” he sighs, “I’ll let you some time to choose. I’ll be back in 24 hours and you’ll give me an answer. You can totally decide to remain a Nephilim and decline my offer, but, you know, there could be…consequences. Any choice has consequences, right?”

And in a purple cloud, Asmodeus disappears.

**

Maryse is the first one to recover from shock, efficient as usual. Her first thought is walking to the Ops center to check on the damages and the casualties they suffered from the great demon’s visit. A lot of equipment will have to be replaced but luckily people are mostly safe, only a few injured persons, nothing really serious. Maryse sighs in relief, because this leaves her time to deal with the buck Asmodeus left to her.

When she’s back in her office, Alec and Magnus are still sitting on the couch, hugging tight. They don’t hear her coming in: Alec is tenderly stroking Magnus’ hair and kissing it, while Magnus’ face shows pure despair.

“I don’t mind who your father is,” Alec is saying, “it doesn’t matter, you’re not him, you’re you, the best person I know, and everyone loves you. I love you and this is not going to change.”

Magnus is clutching at Alec’s shirt. “What can I do?” he whispers, “I don’t want to join that army, but what’s gonna happen to you all, and to mundanes, if I don’t? They might kill you all. And after that? A world without Nephilim is bound to be invaded and ruled by demons… I can’t let this happen… I can't let my guilty blood corrupt and destroy you!”

“We’ll find a way, Magnus, everything’s gonna be fine, believe me…”

Maryse sighs, because she doesn’t want to crash their dreams, but there’s so little she can do. First things first, though, and it’s time to ask for Ragnor Fell’s help, so she immediately sends a fire message. Fell should have expected her call, because in the span of few minutes he’s portalling himself straight in the office.

“So he came, right? Asmodeus.” It’s the first sentence he speaks without even greet them. Maryse nods. “That’s why I called, Mr. Fell. I hope you can help us to find a solution, because right now I can’t see any. And…some explanations would be appropriate, too” she adds in a harsh tone, “given these new abilities Magnus showed.”

Ragnor looks at her, then at the two young men so close to each other that no one could be mistaken about the kind of relationship they share.

“I see we have an extra complication…” he says, shaking his head. He sits on the armchair across them and nods to Maryse so as she sits too. 

“How much time do we have?”

“Asmodeus gave us twenty-four hours. Then Magnus will have to choose whether join his father and giving up his Nephilim nature or refusing his proposal, exposing us to the Hell’s revenge.”

Ragnor seems to think about it for a little while, then he starts talking.

“There’s an ancient prophecy that speaks about a curse Lucifer threw on the Nephilim when he was doomed to Hell. Since then, and still nowadays, he’s locked in his dimension and, despite being acknowledged as King by his acolytes, he can only order them but can’t get free. This curse says that a Nephilim is going to be born who will set him free thanks to his incredibly powerful magic: and that Nephilim is you, Magnus, son of a shadowhunter and of a great demon, able to bring runes and have magic too. You are destined to be the mole, torn between these two worlds. So far, your angelic runes – and also your kind nature and all the good things your parents taught you and the love they gave you – kept the evil forces at bay. But you showed your magic and…I don’t think that Maryse can hide this from the Clave, right?”

“Even if I chose to, I couldn’t. Asmodeus put on a show, he has been heard from everyone. But what’s Magnus’ role in this? I don’t understand. Why do they want him?”

“That’s the worst part. They want him because, if his runes will be gone, he’ll be so powerful to be able to set Lucifer free, and after that, the darkness will come and win.”

“So,” Alec slowly says, “if Magnus doesn’t join them, they will kill all the Nephilim like they did in Surabaya, and demons will slowly conquer the world, even if Lucifer won’t be free. If he joins them, we’ll survive but we’ll have to face a darkness we can’t even imagine, a greater evil…”

Ragnor nods.

“Well, this is an easy choice!” Magnus jumps in. “I’ll kill myself. I might be immortal but not invulnerable, when I’m dead the mess I solved!”

“No, I won’t let you!” Alec screams, and grabs Magnus’ arms to keep him still.

“Let me go, Alexander, I won’t be the reason of our people’s annihilation and of evil spreading among mundanes!”

“Stop, all of you!” Ragnor commands. “Magnus, you’re right, you’re not invulnerable, you were injured before, but you can’t die, even from the most serious wounds, your magic is too powerful. It would heal you immediately. When the Camio demon hurt you, I called Catarina to keep up our show, you would have healed all the same, even without any help from us.”

“There must be something we can do!” Alec exclaims desperately. Then he addresses Maryse. 

“Mom, couldn’t we hide what happened from the Clave and, I don’t know, sending Magnus elsewhere, far away from here…?”

Maryse wrings her hands. “Alec, I can’t. How could a greater demon’s appearance go unnoticed? Everyone saw him.”

“But no one knows about Magnus!”
“Someone knows for sure, they couldn’t help but hear what he said. It’s too risky. And anyway he’s going to come back tomorrow. Even if we send Magnus elsewhere, do you really think he won’t claim him? It’s better if we warn the Clave, maybe they’ll be able to help us and find an escape way…”

“Seriously, mom? Do you believe that?”

Maryse’s silence speaks on her behalf.

“But maybe we could have an ace up our sleeves.” Ragnor chimes in. “Asmodeus came to convince Magnus because they need his consent. They tried to kidnap him in Surabaya to take advantage of his despair, but now it’s different. Let’s talk to the Silent Brothers, I’m sure they know more than we think… and I could trust one of them to be able to help us.”

**

When Maryse reports to the Clave the events of the day, the Clave happens to know already: they don’t tell her who spilled the beans, but they know. 

It’s a tricky situation indeed. The Clave is not available to keep within the Nephilim ranks someone who has demon blood in his veins and consequently has magic, a magic so powerful and hard to control. Ragnor offers to train Magnus in magic theory and practice, but the Clave refuses the offer: Magnus is anyway too dangerous, even as an asset. They should strip him of his runes. There’s only one record of another half-blooded Nephilim, but she had never received her runes so this doesn’t help. Stripping Magnus of his runes, though, would let him as a bare prey for Lucifer and the Apocalypse oncoming. 

Ragnor left a few hours ago and they didn’t hear anything from him yet. And while Maryse is quarrelling with the Clave officials, Magnus and Alec have retired in Alec’s room, armed to the teeth in case Asmodeus, the king of deceiving, tried to show up in advance.

“You need to let me go, Alexander…”

“Go where? You heard Ragnor, we have no choice but hope that he finds something useful. But I swear you this, Magnus: I won’t abandon you, ever, you’re mine and I’m yours, I…can’t live without you…”

Alec blushes, and Magnus, for the first time in his life, is at a loss for words.

Except for three words.

He lifts a hand and strokes Alec’s hair and cheek. “I love you, Alexander Gideon Lightwood…” Then he cups Alec’s face and tilts his head to kiss him, while their scents gently spread in the air, perfectly mixing.

Chapter Text

Prompt 9: free space

They fell asleep together, Alec is sure of that, even in the haze of his barely conscious mind, and yet, as soon as he reaches his hand to check on the other side of his bed, there’s no one there and the sheets are cold. He sits abruptly and climbs down the bed, going to check on the bathroom: maybe Magnus is showering…but the bathroom comes out empty.

He rushes out of his room and the first people he meets is Jace, who’s obviously going to wake Alec up.

“Where’s Magnus?” Alec asks frantically.

“I don’t know, brother. I was going to warn you because Izzy and I were thinking how to be of help and we asked mom and she said Magnus is not here anymore!”

“Oh, God…” Alec whispers and runs to Maryse’s office, swooping in without even knocking before. Maryse glares at him.

“To what do I owe this unbelievable behavior?” she asks.

Alec swallows repeatedly, panting.

“Mom please, you know right? You know where Magnus is. I’m not asking you as my superior officer, I’m asking you…as my mother. Please…”

“Good morning, Mr. Lightwood” a voice says from his side, and Alec realizes they’re not alone. Ragnor Fell is watching him with a mix of sympathy and annoyance.

Alec clears his throat. “Sorry, Mr. Fell”, he says, “I didn’t mean to intrude but I hope you can understand why I’m so concerned about Magnus.”

“We all are, Mr. Lightwood, that’s why I’m here. So, calm down and let’s look into the matter.”

“Have a seat, Alec,” Maryse adds, “Mr. Fell needs to tell you something really important, I’d say…crucial, for the further developments of this contingency.”

Alec takes a deep breath and with a monumental effort, tries to lower his heartrate. He sits across his mother. “I’m listening.”

“Good,” Ragnor says.

He pinches the bridge of his nose and for a moment his glamour drops: the only hint of the amount of his concern, warlocks lose the grasp onto their glamours only when they’re very distracted or emotional.

“Yesterday I told you I have a friend in the City of Bones. A Silent Brother. But a quite unusual kind of Brother, I’d say, you might infer that being friend with a warlock is not exactly what you would expect from a Brother. He used to be a Shadowhunter.”

Both Alec and Maryse gasps.

“And he was very close to your family, then.”

“Jem Carstairs, right?” Maryse slowly adds.

“Jem Carstairs, that’s correct. More precisely, Brother Zachariah for many years now. I asked him for help, also because I couldn’t believe the Brothers didn’t know anything about the prophecy, and I was right. They knew.”

“Why didn’t they take action before Asmodeus threatened us?” Alec chimes in.

“He didn’t tell me. But what he said gives us hope. We can defeat Hell without sacrificing Magnus. That’s why he’s in the City of Bones right now, under the custody of the Brothers.”

“I want to see him!” Alec exclaims, “I need to know he’s okay. I…I might trust the Silent Brothers but I don’t trust the Clave. They already declared that a Shadowhunter with magic must be deruned and exiled, what if something happens to him while he’s under their watch?”

“Calm down, Alec.” Ragnor puts a hand on Alec’s arm and no one seems to realize he called him by his first name. “You will see him, soon. Actually…you’re going to play a big role in this case. First of all, though, we need to be ready for Asmodeus, he’s going to show in a few hours.”

“Yes,” Maryse says, “what should we do, apart from being on full alert?”

“Let him inside without fighting, we don’t need any more casualties. He’ll come here, but he’ll find out we have a powerful ally!”

**

When Asmodeus comes back, at the exact timeline, he finds an easy way forwards. No one tries to stop him and though he makes his way to Maryse’s office between glares and gritted teeth, as per orders they all move afar. With a snap of his fingers, he opens the door wide, and there’s someone waiting for him: Maryse, that Fell warlock, and two teenagers he recognizes as Maryse’s brats, scowling faces and all armed to the teeth.

“Wow, such a charming welcoming committee, I’m flattered,” he smirks. “But believe me, your weapons won’t hold a candle against me, so why don’t you spare yourself some pain and let my son make his own choice? After all, it’s his life we’re talking about. Where is he?”

Maryse makes a step forward.

“He’s not here. He made his choice, he doesn’t want to share anything with you.”

Asmodeus frowns. “And why he’s not here to tell me this himself? He’s not a coward, this means you’re holding him from reaching me! You’re taking his rights away from him!”

“You got your answer, Demon,” Ragnor yells, “Just go and never come back. If we’re bound to face darkness, so be it. We’ll fight!”

Asmodeus addresses Ragnor furiously.

“You! After all the Nephilim made to demon-blooded creatures! They treated you like scum, haunted you, killed you! I can’t believe you teamed up with our enemies!”

“I’m aware of our history. But things will change, and we might have demon blood in our veins but we’re also human, and have feelings, something you’ll never, ever understand. We’re nothing like you, and Nephilim might have been or still be our enemies, but we’ll never join demons. You can tell your king he’ll never be free.”

Asmodeus’ eyes start to become red and flames gather around his hands.

“You chose the wrong side,” he hisses, and lifts his arms threateningly, but from the corner a bow peeks out, a runed arrow nocked, and behind the bow Alec’s face appears, stony and determined. By his side, Brother Zachariah steps forward, hands raised, a flash of golden light coming from them and drawing a complicated pentagram where Asmodeus is standing.

Asmodeus growls, but he soon realizes he can’t move. Alec’s arrow hits him just below where his heart is supposed to be, and his screams fill the room.

He slowly disappears in a burst of flames.

“You’ll regret this,” he yells, “I’ll have my son back and we’ll free our king together! You’ll face death and destruction!”

**

There’s an awful, acrid sulfur smell lingering in the room after Asmodeus has disappeared, and Alec scrunches his nose while lowering his bow.

“Thanks, Brother Zachariah, you bought us some time, but what are we supposed to do now? Isn’t Asmodeus going to come back with an army?”

“He really can’t do anything more until his king is free from his cage.”

The words resound silently into Alec’s mind and he’s not sure if he’s got it right.

“Asmodeus told us they would unleash the Hell power upon Earth, if Magnus didn’t join them. Wasn’t it true?”

“Isn’t Asmodeus the master of deceit? They can’t, no more than what they’re already doing,” Alec hears a hint of humor coming from the Brother. “They did need Magnus to enhance this power, but he refused, and there’s nothing more they can do, they needed his consent.”

Alec can’t help but feel a sliver of hope growing in his chest, despite the further questions that still have no answer.

“Yet they still could try to kidnap him, torture him, threaten to kill his family. He’s not going to put anyone in danger to protect him, he already lost too much!”

“There’s something we can do to protect him. Ancient books, that only the Brothers know of, taught us how to fight this curse, but they didn’t suggest when the Chosen would be born. Now we know.”

Maryse steps forward. “What is it? Please, Brother, we need to hurry!”

A sense of peace spreads inside their minds.

“There’s a rune no one knows about we can burn permanently on Magnus’ skin, but it can’t be carried by a single shadowhunter. There must be a companion who shares it with him. The prophecy says that together they’ll become a powerful couple, bound in a sacred vow, and their union will give life to an even more powerful Nephilim who will lead your race to overtake Hell.”

“So, what are we waiting for, Brother?” Alec adds, rather impatiently.

He doesn’t know how and why, but he feels Brother Zachariah’s smile.

“Remember? We need a partner, a strong motivated partner. It’s the rune of eternal love.”

Alec feels his own smile join the Brother’s. “I think you found the right partner,” he whispers, moving next to Zachariah.

Ragnor, who remained silent so far, grabs his arm.

“Are you sure, boy? It must be true love, otherwise this rune could kill you!”

“I love Magnus,” he answers, his face lit with joy, “I’ve loved him since the first day we met, even if I didn’t know yet then. I know he’s a wonderful, strong Omega, and I’m gay, and proud, and this is something I thought I could never have. Just…I hope he returns my feelings.”

“Just ask him,” Zachariah’s voice says.

A sudden concern makes Alec shudder.

“What about Magnus’ magic, though? The Clave declared he should be deruned…”

Maryse’s lips stir in a sharp smile.

“Let me handle this…”

**

Magnus is restlessly pacing back and forth. The City of Bones is not a welcoming place to stay, even if he’s safe here, and when they brought him here, he was sure he was going to be locked in a cell or at least deruned and exiled. He was almost resigned to his fate, as long as his own existence wouldn’t represent a mortal danger for the entire world, but he missed Alexander. A lot. He wished he could tell him once more he loved him, before dying or disappearing from his life. Maybe have some intimate moment with him, to keep this as a precious memory, whatever destiny had in store for them.

Nothing happened here. But no one has told Magnus what or if anything happened outside, and he’s terribly worried about not only Alexander but his new family too, his shadowhunters fellows, Alexander’s siblings who welcomed him as a brother, even Maryse, who eventually defended him, showing her motherly side.

Suddenly he hears footsteps outside his room, and when the door opens wide there’s a little crowd on the threshold: Brother Zachariah, Ragnor Fell, Maryse and, oh my God, Alexander!

“Magnus…” he breathes.

Magnus doesn’t utter a single word, but throws himself in Alec’s arms, and they hug and touch each other as to check if they’re both okay, and then they kiss, deep and hard, while their scents spread and mix so beautifully that no one can deny they’re soulmates.

“Magnus, are you okay? I was so worried…”

“I’m fine, Alexander, the Brothers took good care of me…but what are you all doing here? News about my…” he almost spits, “father?”

Alec takes Magnus’ hands in his.

“Stop calling him like that, he’s not. Blood doesn’t define people, their deeds do. And you’re nothing but a good, generous, kind, selfless person like the man who raised you, your true father, and also…you’re the love of my life, you know?”

Magnus’ eyes lit and his smile widens.

“And you’re mine, and I hope I can be worth your love, Alexander…”

They hug again, oblivious of the audience, until Ragnor clears his throat.

“Sorry, but I think we should go on with our plan. It’s not that we have much time to waste.”

Magnus and Alec break their hug. “What plan?” Magnus asks.

**

It’s done.

In a private ceremony, with only a group of Silent Brothers to witness the event, they have been joined in a sacred bond and a few secret spells were casted onto them. They tied an eternal knot, bound to last in this life and in the afterlife, so as their souls never part, a sort of enhanced parabatai bond. And when they have drawn each other the complicated rune on their chests, a ferocious, desperate scream rises from the depth of Hell.

**

“Am I immortal too?” Alec asks quietly, the idea of it just popping out in his head.

“Only time will tell…” he hears Zachariah’s voice into his mind. Finally, it doesn’t matter. He has Magnus now, he knows he’ll have him forever, they’re bound to be together no matter how long their lives will last, so he doesn’t care.

“I love you…” Magnus whispers in his ear during their wedding night.

“I love you…” Alec screams, while they join in the most beautiful dance of life.

**

“What can I do for you?” the Consul starts. Maryse reaches out at her. “Jia, let’s not beat around the bush. You know what I need, what I want to. The Clave declared Magnus unworthy of carrying his runes, and instead he saved us all, maybe more than we can figure out already. This verdict must be erased and Magnus has to be allowed to come back to his active duty. He’s always been an excellent fighter and now he’s our best asset.”

Jia stares at her for a little while.

“Magnus has magic, you know that. Magic is bound to demon blood and he’s the son of Asmodeus no less!”

“How can’t you see that? He was raised as a shadowhunter by a respectable family that, I remember you, was slaughtered on duty, he carries his runes proudly, he has never, ever showed himself as nothing less than a noble warrior defending our world. And about demon-blooded persons, isn’t that warlock Fell the man we owe our salvation to? Be a little more open-minded for once, Jia!”

“The fact that he’s bound to your son has nothing to do with your petition, right?” Jia asks harshly.

Maryse purses her lips. “It’s a further reason for him to be officially pardoned. It’s their bond which will keep Lucifer locked in his cage forever, don’t forget that… Jia, by the Angel, what if your daughter found herself in this mess? Also, remember that the Silent Brothers suggested this rite, and the boys risked their lives in accepting the rune. Magnus will train with warlock Fell, who already offered his help, right? He’ll learn to handle his magic, he’ll swear on the Angel to use it at the Clave service, if they do want. But let him live his life, you can convince those bigoted old…”

Jia raises her hand. “Stop, Maryse. I don’t want to know what you were going to say. Okay,” she sighs, “I’ll do that. I suppose that our chances are good. But after this,” she scowls, “don’t you dare to ask me for further favors, are we clear?”

Maryse lets a smile appear on her lips.

**

They are waiting for the official declaration about Magnus, hopeful, while sitting in the antechamber of the Consul’s office. Alec takes Maryse’s hand in his.

“Thank you, mom, for petitioning at Jia in Magnus’ favor.”

Maryse smiles. “It was the right thing to do, Magnus deserved this. He’s a good man, an honest boy, I’m sure everything’s going to be fine.”

“Mom, in the turmoil of these days, I’ve never… I mean, I came out and I thought you would never be okay with this. But you didn’t say anything and I wondered…how you felt about me, and my rushed wedding with Magnus. Because, no matter that we could keep the world safe…I do love him, heart and soul. But I love you too and I want to keep you in my life.”

Maryse looks unusually hesitant.

“I have to say I wasn’t happy to hear about your sexuality. But believe me, I was scared because I know how much being gay is frown upon in our world…things are changing, I know this, especially among younger shadowhunters, and I’m sure you’re not the only one who’s attracted by…same sex people, but I was concerned about your safety. What if you were on patrol with some asshole thinking that your life wasn’t worth to be saved or protected? What about your career? You’re smart and brave and caring, you deserve to try to become Head one day: what if the Clave thinks you don’t fit for this assignment just because you’re gay? These were my fears.”

She sighs.

“But, apart from what happened, I saw you and Magnus together, and there’s no doubt your love is deep and true and…oh, Alec, I want you to be happy. Isn’t it what a mother wishes for her children?”

Alec smiles.

“Thank you, mom, for these words, they mean a lot to me. And yes, I’m happy. Isn’t it what matters more, more than a career? It’s even worth the anger or the contempt of bigoted people.”

They hug tight and they feel close to each other, maybe more than they ever be.

**

A year later

“Push, Magnus, it’s almost over!”

“I can’t… I can’t anymore…”

Magnus has been in labor for twelve hours and he is exhausted. Alec, who has never left his side since the beginning, squeezes his hand, trying to give him some more strength, just to make him hold on a bit more.

“Alexander…” Magnus whines.

“I’m here, baby, I’m here, you’re doing great, just some more effort, I know you’re tired, but think, think that in a while you’re going to see our baby!”

Magnus takes a deep breath, scrunching his face; he hasn’t even got any more strength to scream, but suddenly he feels the pressure stopping and something wet slipping out of him. His blurry mind thinks it’s blood, but it isn’t, because after a few seconds an outraged cry resounds in the room.

Magnus looks at Alec questioningly and sees his husband cry and smile at the same time, while his free hand is caressing his hair and face, the other one still keeping Magnus’.

“It’s a girl,” the midwife exclaims, “a beautiful, healthy girl. Just a minute and I’ll bring her to their dads.”

“You did it, my love” Alec whispers, “I’m so proud of you!”

“We did it together, Alexander… she’s our miracle.”

“She is indeed. But you carried the worst part.”

Magnus closes his eyes: he won’t hold his baby until all traces of his suffering have disappeared. His stupid mind thinks she deserves her papa at his best…

He silently snorts. She will love him. Alec already did, magic and all. And the baby, their daughter, is the tangible proof of their union, of their joy of being together forever, in an unbreakable bond. Together – and with Maryse’s help - they even did defeat the most bigoted part of the Clave who wanted him deruned: they soon had to acknowledge how much powerful as a tool Magnus’ magic was.

Magnus senses the midwife clean him from sweat and blood. She and Alec make him wear fresh clothes, give him some water and help him to sit, leaning onto soft pillows. As in a dream, he’s hearing the baby’s whine, she’s likely hungry… or feels abandoned, far from his papa after having spent so many months inside him.

At that thought, Magnus’ Omega instincts suddenly kick in. He opens his eyes and stretches his arms out.

Alec, tears streaming down his face, takes a clean, sweet-smelling baby from the midwife’s arms and cradles her to his chest for an instant before handing her to Magnus. Then he sits on the bed and puts an arm around Magnus’ shoulders, his little family inside his protecting circle.

Meanwhile, the midwife has silently left, giving them some privacy. They need some time on their own.

“She’s so beautiful, right?” Magnus whispers.

“She is indeed,” Alec answers, quietly to not disturb, “She looks so much like you…”

“No way, Alexander,” Magnus smiles, “I’m sure she will have your eyes. And your mouth. I adore her already!”

“She’s going to be spoiled rotten, I think…” Alec sighs. “Wait until our family meets her…”

Suddenly the baby sneezes, and they laugh, an unbelievable happiness washing over them.

“Hey!” Magnus says. “What about her name?”

“I want her to be proud of her Indonesian heritage. I’d like to name her Melati, it makes me think of you, baby.”

Magnus’ eyes become suspiciously glassy.

“Jasmine… oh Alec…” He takes his husband’s hand. “Melati it is. And I want she’s aware of her Lightwood heritage too, so her second name should be Sophia, wisdom… from her amazing aunt.”

“I truly hope she inherits some of my family women’s sassiness,” Alec jokes, gently stroking their daughter’s tiny head.

The room is silent, like they’re wrapped in a bubble, far from the rest of the world: no birds chirping, no breeze blowing, the gentle bustling of the midwife in the kitchen vanished.

Melati opens her eyes and they shine gold.