A/N: Hi everyone so I am really sorry for the delay in updating this, I know I said I had found some re-inspiration following Matt's amazing takeover which was true but unfortunately due to some family things that happened I just didn't have the time to write, which sucked massively.

Thankfully things are ok now so I've managed to get this chapter out and have a plan for the next few which i'm hoping to get done before the 2b premier - I know this is a serious goal considering my latest pace but i'd love for this to be finished before we get to see the next parts of Malec in 2b.

What has been amazing is that people still seem to be finding this story and enjoying it (I hope) so thank you all for that. I hope there are still some people out there who are following this, I am sorry for the time breaks, i know HOW frustrating it is waiting on chapter updates! fingers crossed you all still like where this is going.

on a separate note thank you for your amazing comments on chapter 9 and the Malec loving. there will definitely be more to come but this is picking up in 2x09 so focusing more on what happened at the party. Also I've added a slight non-canon time jump just as i realised a hell of a lot had happened in like 3 days in my version!

Magnus let out a contented sigh, enjoying the feel of the morning sun warm his face as he sipped his morning coffee on the balcony, basking in a rare moment of peaceful quiet. His temporary, though seemingly growing more permanent by the day, roommate was nowhere to be found. Now they knew Clary was the key to activating the Soul Sword, Jace barely spent any time at the loft at all, instead permanently fixed at her side, watching her every move, vowing to protect her from Valentine's evil schemes, much to the redhead's, and her new vampire beaus, annoyance. That's what family was for Magnus supposed as he stifled back a yawn before taking another swig. This was his second cup, black and full of sugar, most definitely what he needed after the past few nights.

Magnus couldn't help but grin as he remembered the reason behind his sudden weariness. Magnus had used the peace of Jace's recent absence from the loft to fill his days with research and spells, desperately hoping he'd find something, anything to help locate his spell book or Valentine. It had been a fruitless and frustrating endeavour. However the nights more than made up for it, as they had been solely and completely consumed by one thing; Alexander.

Three nights had passed since the rune party, since what had been both one of the worst and most incredible nights of Magus's life. The first night with Alec had been beyond amazing, Magnus couldn't remember experiencing anything like it before. The sex itself was incredible, not that Magnus was really surprised, Alec Lightwood was a dutiful student and exceptionally fast learner, the things the Shadowhunter had learnt to do with his tongue in the past few days were near sinful. Magnus praise the angel (or demon) for every second. But it went beyond physical pleasure, in his many centuries Magnus had had his share of mind blowing sex, in fact he'd had many men's share, but that first night with Alec had been something else entirely. He couldn't remember a time in his long years he'd felt this way about someone, he feeling of finally being with Alec, having Alec finally inside him, connected and consuming him so completely, was beyond pleasure. The way Alec looked at him when they were finally joined was otherworldly.

Magnus took another glug of the sweet hot liquid remembering the perfect way their bodies had come together that first night and every night since. They hadn't come together in the same wild and desperate way as the first night but the need for one another was always there between them. They had quickly found a satisfying rhythm in the nights that followed the party, few words passed between them, the desire clear in their eyes. Desperate hands would meet burning skin, lips would devour lips and they quickly lost themselves in each other completely, bodies slotting together perfectly, like two pieces of beautiful puzzle.

Magnus's grin widened as he remembered the way Alec had awoken him this morning, taking his time to slowly explore every inch of Magnus body with his hands and mouth, worshipping him as he brought the Warlock closer and closer to the edge before finally taking him slowly as Magnus lay face down in the bed, Alec's breath hot in his ear, lips at his neck, rolling his hips with delicious skill. Magnus remembered the way his body shattered completely beneath him, the incredible feeling of Alec's huge warrior body slotted perfectly into Magnus's elegant frame. It had been the same between them every time and like the first time it felt incredible; Magnus loved the feeling of being filled by Alec so completely. Magnus hoped, one day if Alec wanted that, Magnus would be able to share that feeling with him, of being filled so completely. For now Magnus was blissfully content in whatever Alec wanted.

Despite the blissful pleasures and euphoria that Magnus's body was revelling in, a part of him felt ashamed. He and Alec had not spoken about what happened on the roof the night of the party, not really, and Magnus knew the longer they avoided it the harder it would be. Magnus knew Alec didn't want to talk about it but there were things Magnus needed to say, things he needed Alec to hear. He needed Alec to know he was here; that Alec wasn't alone, no matter how dark or ugly things got Magnus would be there for him. It wasn't a choice or decision Magnus made for himself, he knew that now, Alec had become a part of him long before that night and Magnus couldn't survive without him.

Magnus had intended to talk to Alec the morning after the party, especially after what happened between them the night before. However Alec had been called back to the Institute urgently the next morning for Aldertree's briefing on Valentine. When Alec finally returned later that night, he'd been so riled up following Aldertree's latest refusal to listen to Alec and Jace, that Magnus barely had the chance to utter more than a few words before Alec had shoved him against the wall and dropped to his knees before the Warlock, frantically tugging his belt buckle open.

Magnus knew Alec was distracting him, as well as himself, with sex and he knew he should stop, or at least slow things down but it was so hard to resist when he craved the Shadowhunter so desperately. However as much as Magnus craved Alec's exquisite body, if it were possible he craved his heart even more, Magnus wanted to protect it, cherish it and shield it from any pain with his own.

In fact it was the quieter moments, the moments after they lost themselves in each other, Magnus came to cherish most. Nothing in all his centuries compared to the feel of holding Alec in his arms, the dazed blissful half-smile set on his face, the soft melodic sound of his breathing as he drifted to sleep. Magnus almost craved these moments as much as he craved Alec's body. In the moments before sleep took hold Alec seemed to find a rare peace and calm he struggled to find anywhere else. Each night he asked Magnus to tell him things, not deep personal secrets but small things, good things Alec called them.

Tell me something Magnus…he would whisper in the night. Tell me something good.

Magnus remembered the night before as he held Alec close to his body, delicate hands stroking Alec's sweat sheened skin, his hard body still shaking from feel of his release. Magnus told him stories of when he lived South America in the mid-19th Century, though careful to leave out any details which included Camille, instead softly telling him of his adventures with Ragnor in Peru, the mystics he encountered in the Amazon and his nights dancing into the early hours in Buenos Ares.

Alec sighed, his breath warm against Magnus sweat sheened chest. 'I'd love to go to Argentina; I've always wanted to see Iguazu Falls.'

'We can Alexander; Argentina, Paris, Marrakech, I told you the world is your oyster.' Magnus replied stroking his hands down Alec's back, he could feel his excitement growing; he loved the idea of exploring the endless corners of the world with Alec. 'We could go right now, anywhere you want.'

Alec smiled against his chest, 'I think we may be a little underdressed.'

'Hmmph, clearly you haven't been to the midnight show at the Moulin Rouge.' Magnus murmured in response causing Alec to chuckle softly. 'The offer stands Alec, anywhere in the world, name it and we'll go.'

Alec moved his head up slightly, tucking an arm between his chin on Magnus's chest, his eyes instantly met Magnus's own before he uttered softly. 'I'm happy here.'

'So am I.' Magnus smiled, leaning his head to kiss the Shadowhunter softly, bruised lips brushing lips.

Alec closed his eyes as Magnus's lips broke away and sighed. 'I'll admit a night in Paris with you is a lot more appealing than having to sit through another one of Aldertree's ridiculous briefings.'

'Gee thanks.' Magnus grumbled giving Alec's side a playful squeeze beneath the covers.

'I didn't mean…sorry.' Alec said with a smirk, before pressing his lips to Magnus's chest in apology. 'I just don't know how much more of Aldertree I can take.'

'Don't let him get to you Alexander.' Magnus said running his hands soothingly over Alec's arms. 'He's just trying to rile you; everyone knows you should be Head of the Institute.'

'But I'm not.' Alec replied bitterly.

Magnus knew how much Alec resented Aldertree and quite rightly, not only had Aldertree taken the position Alec had been working towards his whole life but Victor had decided the best way to secure his authority was to belittle and disparage Alec or his family at every turn.

Magnus sighed, 'I could always portal Aldertree away, perhaps not Paris…far too exciting for a diplomat…' he mused. 'I'm seeing more of a one-way trip to Antarctica…or Mars.'

'I'll bear that in mind.' Alec sniggered. 'I just don't want to go back there.'

'Then don't.' Magnus said firmly. 'Stay here, I'm sure Jace will call, or more likely interrupt at the worst possible moment, if he needs you.'

A half-smile appeared on Alec's face. 'I think I've reached the amount of days I can get out of that sweater.'

'You do realise I have a washer and dryer, not that I use it, and you know, magic to clean clothes Alec?' Magnus teased.

Alec rolled his eyes, 'You know what I mean.'

Magnus's brow furrowed, 'I don't see why you don't leave some stuff here, have a drawer or something. It seems ridiculous to trek back and forth to the Institute every morning for a new sweater in a slightly different shade of green.'

Magnus looked to Alec who was staring up at him with a slightly wide-eyed look of disbelief at what Magnus was suggesting.

'Magnus…' Alec began, his body wriggling slightly beneath the covers.

Magnus hadn't intended to ask Alec this, it really had been a sensible solution to a problem but now he'd said it aloud he realised how much he wanted it. The idea of Alec's things sitting side by side with Magnus's, if only for some of the time, was something Magnus wanted more than anything in the world. But he knew he needed to be careful not to push Alec too fast.

'It makes sense for you to have a few things here when you need them...' Magnus said as casually as he could manage.

'Oh…I guess you're right.' Alec's face was a combination of uncertainty and something else Magnus couldn't quite place. He looked almost…disappointed by Magnus's response.

'Alec…' Magnus began but paused, not sure exactly how to say what he really wanted to. He let out a soft breath before continuing, 'It would be nice for you to have a place here…if you'd like.'

Alec smiled, giving a small nod. 'I would.'

They lay in silence for a few moments, Alec resting his head against Magnus's body, listening to the slow thud of the Warlocks heart, his fingers tracing rune-like shapes on his stomach until the sound lulled him into a peaceful sleep. Magnus looked down at the man sleeping in his arms, tightening the grip of his arms around Alec, pulling his body closer with a heavy sigh.

'What are you doing to me Shadowhunter?' he whispered into the night before kissing the top of Alec's head, feeling his own need for sleep looming.

Magnus smiled at the memory, the feeling of falling asleep with Alec in his arms was something he would never tire of. It was why he needed to talk to Alec so badly, no matter how good things had been between them in the past few days Magnus couldn't forget what happened the other night, he couldn't let go of the fear and pain he felt seeing Alec on that ledge, knowing how close he came to losing him was too much. Taking the last glug of his coffee Magnus decided he would talk to Alec today, no matter what the Shadowhunter tried to do with his hands and mouth.

Alec walked silently through the bustling command centre, head down conscious not to make eye contact with any of the stressed-looking Shadowhunters as they hurried past him, barking orders about reports and weapons at one another. Alec didn't want to get pulled into anything; he just wanted to get out of the Institute as quickly as possible. He'd had another run in with Aldertree when he returned from Magnus's this morning about some patrol reports which apparently didn't meet Aldertree's standards. The diplomat snidely stating in front of a packed Ops Centre that as the Head of the New York Institute, Aldertree shouldn't have to chase a Shadowhunter for such a simple task and if Alec needed help with his reports perhaps he should go back to desk duty. It took all of Alec's willpower not to smack him down in front of the whole Institute.

Instead Alec went straight to the training room and took his frustrations out on a punching bag before rewriting all the reports and leaving them in what was, formerly his mother's and rightfully should be Alec's, office. He then returned to his room, packed a bag grabbing everything he could find in five minutes deciding he wouldn't spend a moment longer in the Institute that necessary.

As Alec made his way through the Institute, swinging the heavy duffle bag over his shoulder he began to panic slightly that he may have gone a bit overboard in his hasty packing. Magnus's suggestion for Alec to keep a few things at the loft was a practical solution; Alec had spent more nights there than the Institute over the past few months it made sense but regardless Alec was happy. The loft felt more like home to Alec every day but as the heavy bag shifted on his shoulder Alec wondered if perhaps he was feeling a little too at home. Alec was about to turn on his heels and go unpack when he heard a pained cry from the across the room and familiar sound of a body hitting the training mat, hard.

'Owwwwwwwwwwwww.'

A dismissive grunt followed, 'Get up grunt, I didn't hit you that hard.'

Alec turned at the sound of his parabatai's annoyed voice to see Jace standing, kendo stick clutched in hand, staring down angrily at a first year Shadowhunter recruit lying flat on his back, arms clutching his chest in clear pain. Alec took in the rest of the training room scene to see two other bruised and battered recruits in the corner, one pressing an ice pack to his nose. Unable not to, Alec walked towards them, swinging the bag back over his shoulder.

'C'mon worm, I said get up.' Jace barked slamming the stick so forcefully into the ground the floor shook.

'I…think…I…my ribs are…cracked…' the recruit replied, by the way he wheezed Alec would say he was right.

Jace rolled his eyes, 'So?'

'I need…a…break…' the boy stammered rolling onto his side slowly.

Jace bent down next to him, a move the Shadowhunter stupidly mistook for help, putting his arm out but Alec knew better. Jace took the Shadowhunter's outstretched arm and roughly dragged him to his feet, the boy squealing in pain as he found himself face to face with a very angry Jace.

'Do you think demons are going to give you a break?' he yelled into the boy's face, his own turning increasingly red, wild blonde hair flying. 'Do you think the Circle or Valentine will?'

'I…errr…I don't…' the boy whined, clearly scared and in pain.

'You fall on your ass fighting them and you're dead.' Jace spat. 'Valentine would rip your heart out in a second.'

'It's nice to see you imparting your usual wisdom and knowledge to the next generation of Shadowhunters.' Alec said dryly appearing at Jace's side.

Jace dropped the terrified kid at the sound of Alec's voice; the boy fell to the floor in a crumbled heap.

Jace turned to Alec, his face had lost none of its anger. 'These aren't Shadowhunters.' He spat bitterly looking down at the whimpering boy at his feet. 'You. Go join useless and more useless over there.'

The boy nodded hurriedly and scrambled away, Jace banged the stick again barking at him to move faster causing the boy to practically crawl to the other recruits, all who looked completely terrified of Jace. Alec was surprised at his parabatai, Jace usually had a habit of showing off in front of the young recruits, putting in over the top displays of his fighting or swords skills earning looks of adoration and worship from the ranks. He enjoyed being the hero of the training room and didn't use trainees as his own personal punching bags.

'Don't you think you could ease up a little?' Alec said. 'They're barley of out rune class.'

'They need to learn, the world doesn't give you a break. I did.' He said coldly. 'You know what's coming Alec.'

Alec didn't say anything, Jace was right. A war was coming and if they didn't find a way to stop Valentine using the Soul Sword horror, devastation and death would consume the Downworld. Magnus's face flashed in Alec's mind, a fear unlike any other flooded his body. Alec felt the same fear flood the parabatai bond, and realised Jace's mind was consumed with his own worries, Clary.

'How's Clary doing?' Alec asked. He knew Clary was the reason Jace was back at the Institute, he wanted to be as close as possible. Despite Aldertree's continued obstruction Jace had barely left in days, volunteering for every menial task going, hence why he was inducting the green new recruits.

Jace tensed up at the question, 'She thinks she's fine. She has no idea how much danger she's in, of what Valentine is capable of…he won't care she's his daughter.'

The pain in his voice told that Jace knew all too well of Valentine's fatherly skills. Jace shook his head in frustration, moving towards the battered punching bag hanging across the room.

'She's pissed at me.' He said hitting the bag with a thud. 'Said she's doesn't need me watching her every minute and told me to back off.'

'I get it, you want to protect her. She's your family.' Alec said, realising the gravity of what he'd said as Jace physically tensed up at his words.

Alec felt anger, longing and another feeling flash through the bond, one he knew Jace didn't want to feel any longer but couldn't help it. Alec felt terrible.

'Jace…if you've wanna talk…' Alec began but Jace scoffed and rolled his eyes. Alec scowled and raised his eyebrows. 'You can't keep taking it out on the recruits.'

Jace scoffed again as he began slowly but forcefully slamming his fists against the punching bag. 'Are you seriously talking to me about bottling up emotions?'

Alec rolled his eyes but knew his parabatai wasn't wrong. He felt Jace's frustration and anger grow through the bond; he was still hurt at the distance between them since the party. Alec also knew despite Jace presence back in the Institute he was still feeling isolated from the other Shadowhunters, the whispers and dark looks about Valentine's son, the demon blood in his veins followed wherever he went. With Jace near-24 hour bodyguard duty of Clary and Alec's retreat to Magnus's they had barely seen each other since the party. Alec knew they needed to talk but as Jace's fists pounded harder against the bag and he looked at the battered recruits across the room he wasn't sure this was the best time.

So instead he decided to change the subject. 'Have you seen Izzy?'

Jace slowed his fists and shook his head. 'Not today…or yesterday I don't think.'

Alec frowned, trying to remember the last time he saw his sister, realising he hadn't seen Izzy since the rune party either; in fact he realised he'd barely seen her for weeks. Jace turned to Alec sensing his concern through the bond.

'Something wrong?' Jace said.

Alec sighed, 'I'm not sure...guess I just haven't seen her much lately.'

'There's a lot of that going around lately.' Jace muttered though loud enough for Alec to hear before pausing, grabbing the swinging bag in his hands, frowning.

'What is it?' Alec asked.

Jace scowled, 'I'm not sure…though I heard someone saying Aldertree was looking for her.'

'That can't be good.' Alec paused. 'There is definitely something off with that guy.'

'Ya think?' Jace scoffed whacking the bag even harder.

Alec rolled his eyes, something was going on, maybe he should go and talk to Aldertree? Though after their latest run in this morning Alec wasn't sure his patience would keep his fists in check a second time.

Sensing Alec's rising anger Jace said, 'I can keep an eye out, give you a call at Magnus's if she shows?'

Alec frowned, 'How did you…' his words trailed off, there was no need to ask Jace why he knew where he'd be.

'Take if you're heading back there now…' Jace asked then looked at the huge duffle bag and raising his eyebrows. 'Or are you officially moving in? Guess it saves you doing the walk of shame every morning.'

Alec blushed, trying to look anywhere but at his parabatai and opened his mouth to protest but Jace cut him off.

'I'm kidding Alec, it's good…you and Magnus…' he said sincerely his dark mood from before lifting slightly, a genuine half-smile on his face. 'You seem…happier.'

Alec thought about the past few nights with Magnus and knew happy couldn't even begin to describe what he felt, though he knew his parabatai could likely feel a fraction of it through the bond he wasn't quite ready to say it aloud yet, even to himself.

Instead he replied. 'I am.'

Jace nodded and looked back to the wheezing recruits. 'Guess I should get back to the snivelling wastes of my time…' before turning back to Alec, a dark grin on his face. 'Unless you wanna show these chumps what real a fighter looks like before you go back to playing house?'

Alec rolled his eyes at Jace's joke but couldn't help but grin at his suggestion' 'You sure you wanna get your ass kicked so publicly this early in the morning?'

'Is that right?' Jace said with a laugh as he grabbed two kendo sticks, tossing one to Alec who caught it instantly before turning back in the direction of their terrified observers. 'Yo idiots c'mere…' he yelled before adding more loudly. 'Now!"

The three recruits anxiously edged towards the training mats, looking even more terrified as Alec and Jace stood glaring at them, clutching weapons.

'Now you're going to see how real warriors fight.' Jace said with a sly grin.

Half an hour later and Alec and Jace had gone a few rounds, each getting in their share of licks and punches on the other. Having trained and fought together for so long they knew each others moves inside out and it made for some interesting bouts, both trying to anticipate the others next moves and use them against the other. 'The recruits fear had quickly began to fade as they became enthralled by the skilful warrior show, still slightly scared to speak instead they elicited low ooooohs and ahhhhhhhs. After a while Jace decided they had done enough watching and dragged them to their feet to join in with him and Alec. Alec soon discovered they weren't completely terrible when not being pummelled and yelled at by Jace, in fact the one Alec was sparring with had some real promise.

As Alec showed the recruits fighting techniques, laughed and teased Jace about who was the better fighter he also found he was actually enjoying himself. For the first time in a long time things felt like they were before, him and Jace side by side, he realised now just how much he had missed this.

Alec was unable to stop the smug grin spread across his face as the same runt he had walked in on Jace "training" earlier actually managed to swipe the great Jace Wayland off his feet.

'You ok down there Warrior King?' Alec yelled from across the room, doing his best not to laugh at the furious look on his parabatai's face.

Jace grumbled something in response Alec couldn't quite make out except the word "off" as he scrambled to his feet, a dark intent in his eyes. Alec actually felt sorry for the young Shadowhunter knowing he would be in for a world of pain. Chuckling Alec folded his arms as Jace launched himself at the poor kid, yelling he needed to "teach" him and the others about sleeper holds when an unwanted figure appeared.

'Errr Jace?' Raj asked nervously, his face confused as he watched Jace try to choke out the young trainee.

'What?' Jace spat pulling his arm back even tighter around the Shadowhutner's neck, Alec winced at the pain etched on the kids face. He'd been victim to Jace's sleeper hold more times than he'd care to admit, Jace had a nasty habit of almost dislocating his partners shoulders to get them to tap out.

'So I was watching Clary like you said…' Raj began.

Alec shot Jace a dark look, raising his eyebrow, not that he was truly surprised.

'What?' Jace asked. 'She said I couldn't get within twenty feet of her…she said nothing about Raj.'

'No one ever does.' Alec mumbled rolling his eyes.

Raj shot Alec a dark look as the young Shadowhunter continued to struggle in Jace's hold, for a second it looked as though he might actually break free until Jace swivelled his arm back, the intense scream that followed told them he was close to cracking the bone.

'Whatever.' Raj winced. 'So I was watching her room, all stealthy like you said, I totally was but she was in there for hours and hours colouring in her stupid little drawings…'

Jace actually growled up at Raj who, despite the fact Jace was clearly occupied and could do little damage to Raj, still physically stepped backwards.

'I mean her amazing art…work…things.' Raj mumbled as Alec rolled his eyes again. 'Anyway nothing happened for agessssss, and I hadn't had any breakfast and only three cups of coffee so I thought it'd be ok. I mean no one…'

'Spit it out Raj!' Jace roared getting frustrated as everyone did with Raj's inability to communicate a simple sentence in less than 100 words.

'Well I err…went to make a sandwich…and Clary…' Raj stammered. 'she err…'

'Raj!'

'She's gone.' Raj said eyes darting to the floor like a scolded child.

'What!' Jace yelled even louder, almost ripping the young Shadowhunter's arm out of the socket. 'Where. Did. She. Go?'

'Owwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.' The boy cried, totally ignored by Jace.

Seeing the horrendous pain etched on the young recruits face Raj looked as though he wanted to do anything else than answer Jace's question right now, and Alec was pretty sure he knew why.

'Well one of the guards said…they saw…' Raj stammered before saying the final sentence in one terrified breath. 'Clary-was-going-to-see-her-vampire-boyfriend.'

Alec shut his eyes, wincing as he head the young Shadowhunter's arm break in Jace's hold as Raj practically yelled the last two words. Alec grabbed his bag and swung it over his shoulder, it was most definitely time to go back to Magnus's.

'Oh for the love of…' Magnus grumbled as he tossed the scroll down, another dead end and after hours his already tired mind was growing frustrated. Magnus had gone through volumes and volumes of mystical texts, grimoires and ancient scrolls but had found nothing. Not that he was surprised, any recorded contact with an angel, let alone direct communication with one was beyond rare.

In truth Magnus didn't even know what it was he was looking for and that was all the more frustrating. He felt helpless and he hated it, however the fear and frustration he felt paled in comparison to the anger he felt towards the Clave. Magnus wasn't surprised about the truth about what the Soul Sword could do but he was surprised they had been able to keep it a secret for so long. The Mortal Instruments had always been shrouded in secrecy, and the Clave played that to their advantage, always. Magnus wondered how many Downworlder's had discovered the truth over the centuries and what terrible price they had been forced to pay for their silence. Ever since Valentine had resurfaced Magnus had tried to do all he could to protect the Warlocks and Downworlders, they were the closest thing he had to family. The idea they could be wiped out in an instance made him feel sick.

Magnus knew the Claves reasoning that the Sword was the ultimate weapon to protect the world if it became overran by demons, sounded plausible, a necessary means for the greater good but Magnus had lived long enough to know the truth.

For decades Magnus had done his best to stay out of Shadowhunter politics, only dealing with the Nephilim when absolutely necessary, usually involving Magnus's service in exchanged for payment. Magnus remembered years of wary and disdained filled looks, derogatory or bigoted comments and instances of unprovoked attacks. It took Magnus a long time but he finally understood why, they were afraid of him. The Shadoworld feared the Downworld immensely for the Downworld possessed a power that the Nephilim could never understand. Over time confusion turned to fear which turned to hate and the two worlds drove further and further apart.

With all that had happened over the past few months Magnus had almost forgotten that truth, ever since Alec Lightwood walked into Pandemonium many months ago Magnus's whole world had turned upside down.

Alec didn't see Magnus the way so many Shadowhunter's, including his own parents', had before. To Alec he wasn't just Magnus Bane, High Warlock of Brooklyn, summoned to do the Nephilim's bidding, casting spells, raising wards and responding to the Clave's every whim. Though Magnus was growing slightly tiresome of continually saving Clary's life every other week.

When Alec looked at Magnus he didn't see distrust, fear or hatred in his eyes, Alec didn't treat Magnus like he was beneath him, something to be watched and treated with caution. Alec looked at Magnus in a way no one had before, for a while Magnus forgot the Shadoworld and Downworld existed. Sometimes, when he was lost in Alec's arms, despite all his fears and moral duty to protect his kin, for all Magnus cared every other universe could burn to the ground.

Though he knew Alec didn't hold the Clave's view, the truth of the Soul Sword was a stark reminder they were in fact from, and protecting different worlds. The Sword was a painful reminder of what the Clave truly thought of the Downworld, it was something to be feared, controlled and if it came to it destroyed.

With a tired yawn, Magnus lent back against the couch and rested his eyes, trying to push his fears and angers from his mind, instead willing his mind to focus on happier things. There was only one thing which filled his thoughts, Alec. Magnus let his mind drift through the exquisite memories of the past few nights, the feel of Alec's body joined with his so perfectly, feeling his skin grow warm as the images of Alec played through his mind. Magnus was so lost in his blissful memories he didn't hear the clicking off the loft door open or the soft thuds of boots on the ground. It was only when he felt familiar but always wanted lips brush against his own did he realise he was no longer alone.

'Mmmmmmm.' He sighed against Alec's mouth, causing the Shadowhunter to deepen this kiss.

Magnus blinked his eyes open to find beautiful deep hazel ones staring down upon him.

'Hey.' Alec said, voice low, slightly breathless.

'Hey back.' Magnus answered smiling unable to stop himself.

He sat up, tucking his legs underneath him Alec sat in their place beside him, his strong arms instinctively stretching out across the Warlock's thighs, fingers lightly tracing across the denim of his jeans.

'How'd things go with Aldertree?' Magnus asked, though he was sure of the outcome.

Alec grunted and rolled his eyes confirming Magnus's thoughts. 'Man's an imbecile.'

Magnus chuckled, more at Alec's vocabularic restraint, recently having heard him refer to his superior in much more colourful language, when his eyes caught the large and clearly well-packed duffle bag at Alec's feet.

'My, my Alexander did you leave anything behind at the Institute?' he teased quirking an eyebrow, his grin falling as Alec suddenly tensed beside him.

Alec's eyes darted to the floor and his hands instantly pulled away from Magnus's legs, instead nervously reaching for the strap of the bag.

'I err…well I didn't…' he stammered, Magnus could literally hear the panicked cogs turning in his mind. 'you said…I didn't mean, I'm sorry…'

Magnus felt terrible instantly at the mortified look on Alec's face. He felt Alec's body inch forward and saw his hands tighten their grip on the bag, clearly preparing to flee. Magnus lent forward and reached for his hands.

'I'm sorry Alec, that was a joke…' he said soothingly.

Alec looked at him but Magnus could still see the uncertainty in his eyes, Magnus squeezed his hands reassuringly.

'…a bad one.' He said softly smiling, relieved when Alec smiled back, his shoulders visibly relaxing.

'Are you sure Magnus?' he asked, nerves still in his voice.

Magnus edged his body closer, pressing close to Alec's side, his breath hot at Alec's ear. 'The drawers all yours Alec…for as long as you want it.'

Forever? Alec asked in his head but instead answered Magnus with his lips once more, pushing the Warlock back against the couch. As always the kiss grew heated, Magnus felt Alec's hand grasp at his narrow waist, digging in hard, twisting their bodies so they were perfectly lined against one another. Magnus could feel Alec already hardening against him and moaned, letting himself get lost in the feel of Alec's touch, the taste of his kiss. Magnus felt Alec's hand move between them, torturously brushing over the growing bulge in Magnus's jeans causing him to let out a low groan, feeling the Shadowhunter smirk against his mouth.

Alec still had his jacket on, the collar scratched roughly at Magnus's jaw; a voice in his head told him to quickly rid Alec of the thing, along with all his other clothes. But then another voice spoke up, the one which had been quietly waiting since the party, growing louder each day. Despite how badly Magnus wanted Alec he knew they needed to talk. Alec's hands moved upwards, fingers reaching for Magnus's belt. Despite every part of his body screaming at him not to, Magnus clamped his hand over Alec's whilst simultaneously breaking the kiss.

'How about I make us some drinks?' Magnus stammered breathlessly as he wriggled himself free from Alec's huge frame, though half of his head telling him to turn around and jump straight back into the Shadowhunter's arms.

Alec stared at Magnus with a confused look as the Warlock made his way towards the bar.

'Quit your pouting Shadowhunter, not everyone has a stamina rune.' Magnus teased, trying to even out his breathing, not letting his mind think about the taste of Alec's runes under his tongue.

Thankfully Alec laughed in response and stretched himself out across the couch, Magnus allowed himself a quick look back, seeing a flash of Alec's delicious abs as he sweater rode up and quickly looked away. Magnus distracted his mind as he set about making their drinks, deciding on nothing too strong as he needed a clear head to talk to Alec and knew alcohol would do little to keep his willpower together. Behind him Alec cast his eye over the array of books and papers scattered across the table.

'Any luck on finding your spell book? Or the demon in Clary's vision?' he asked.

'Afraid not.' Magus responded as he poured various liquid into his cocktail shaker. 'I've got a few Warlock contacts I can try; I have an old colleague in Africa who is excellent at tracking spells. Any update from the Clave?'

'Not that I would know.' Alec mumbled, clearly thinking about his most recent run-in with Aldertree. 'I thought Izzy might have some updated intel but I couldn't find her.'

Alec's tone was off; Magnus looked over to see a thoughtful, concerned look his face. It was true Isabelle had been rather absent lately, Magnus remembered seeing her for the briefest of moments at the rune party and before that the last time he had seen her had been at The Hunters Moon. Something had been off that night but Magnus couldn't put his finger on what. He decided, looking at the concerned look on Alec's face, now was not the time to voice his concerns, himself not even knowing what they truly were. Perhaps he'd reach out to Izzy himself, perhaps whatever was causing her to isolate herself was something she didn't want to share with her brothers. Magnus wondered if perhaps she had a secret beau, how exciting Magnus thought, forbidden romance was always filled with such scintillating details. Making a mental note to call Izzy for a cocktail later Magnus returned his attentions to his own invention.

Alec sighed and smacked his hands against his thighs. 'For now protocol remains in place, try and find Valentine, keep up the patrols, protect the Downworld.'

Unable to stop himself Magnus let out a dismissive snort as he shook the metal shaker in his hands. 'Yes because the Clave is so concerned in protecting us Downworlders.'

'What do you mean?' Alec asked, a confused look upon his face.

Magnus knew he should let it go, he did not want to get into an argument with Alec, especially now, about Clave politics but he couldn't help himself.

He turned back to Alec, cocktail shaker in hand. 'The Clave aren't worried about protecting the Downworld Alec, their worried about what the Downworld will do now they…we know the truth about the sword…' Magnus paused, knowing he should stop but unable to. 'And they're right to be. If the Downworld had known the truth about the Sword there would have been an Uprising centuries ago. '

'Why?' Alec asked, seemingly shocked at Magnus's words.

Magnus put the shaker down, surprised at Alec's question.

'Alexander, the Clave created a weapon that was capable of wiping out all Downworlders and knowingly kept it a secret for a millennia.' Magnus said seriously. 'I've lived through my share of wars Alec but believe me the threat of extinction is enough to scare even me.'

Alec said nothing in response, his face serious, clearly thinking over Magnus's words. Magnus sighed and turned back to the bar, resuming his cocktail creating.

'Let's not talk about more about politics Alec.' Magnus said trying to keep his voice light, furious at himself for derailing his discussion with Alec before it even began. He poured two neon orange drinks into martini glasses and flinched, not even sure himself what he'd put in them.

'Now Alec, I won't be offended if you say no to my latest invention. Admittedly it doesn't seem to be my best work…blame it on sleep deprivation, or should I say blame you…' Magnus began turning back to Alec, hoping to bring things back to a lighter moment between them but instead found Alec was no longer there.

Confused Magnus looked around; terrified Alec had left but instead saw him standing on the balcony staring out into the New York dusk. Magnus set the drinks down and silently walked to him, the busy sound of the city traffic filled his ears as he moved closer. Alec didn't acknowledge Magnus presence.

'How many Downworlder's do you think live in New York?' Alec asked, still looking straight ahead at the city.

'I don't know.' Magnus response, cursing himself.

He set his hands on the hard concrete, casting a quick side glance at Alec, feeling terrible he let his own anger and frustrations about the Clave takeover. He knew Alec didn't hold the Clave's view, Alec had proven that countless times over, protecting those that couldn't protect themselves, Mundanes, Shadowhunters, Downworlders Alec didn't care, he protected the innocent.

'But they're not all your responsibility.' Magnus added.

Alec finally looked at him, his face stern, eyebrows set in a frown and Magnus braced himself for what would likely be a tense exchange about the solemn duty of Shadowhunters. But as Magnus was quickly learning, what Alec said next surprised him completely.

'But you are.'

It was a statement, said with absolute certainty and one Magnus knew was not to be questioned, not that he wanted to. He couldn't help but smile at Alec's words, looking back at the city. Despite the soaring feeling in his heart Magnus did not want Alec to feel that burden.

'I can take care of myself.' Magnus said softly, cupping his hands on the stone.

'Maybe but this is different.' Alec said, Magnus's words about annihilation and uprisings playing over in his mind. 'You may have lived through the fall of Rome but even the dark ages couldn't have been this dark.'

Alec's voice was so tired and drained; he knew the worse was still to come. Magnus cursed himself again for bringing all of this up in the first place, he wanted to lessen the worries on Alec's mind not make things worse. Standing here now Magnus realised this was the first time they'd been out here together since the party. Magnus knew now was his chance to say what he'd needed to so badly for the past few days.

'Alexander…' he began turning his body towards Alec, it was now or never. 'I know things may seem bleak but nothing was as devastating as seeing you on that ledge.'

Alec turned his body to Magnus, trying to keep his face relaxed and normal but Magnus could see the anxiety in his eyes.

'It was the magic…' Alec protested. 'I would never…never…'

'I know.' Magnus said, though he was not sure he was being truthful. 'I know.'

A silence fell between them for a moment; Alec looked down, unable to bear the weight of Magnus's gaze.

'But magic can't create fears.' Magnus continued. 'Only bring them out.'

'Magnus…' Alec looked up; his tone was dismissive but not rude. Magnus knew he just desperately wanted this conversation to be over. Magnus doesn't want to push Alec but he needs to say this, just once.

'You don't have to explain yourself. I've been through it myself.' Magnus said softly, his eyes look off into the distance of the busy city remembering that dark windy London night. Magnus remembered how it felt standing on that bridge, as though he had nothing left, he was worth nothing, it tears him apart to think of Alec feeling that way.

Magnus swallowed, taking a deep breath. 'Just promise me you'll tell me, if things ever get that bad.'

Alec gives a small nod, his tell for when he couldn't quite find the words. Instead he shifted uncomfortably where he stood, looking at Magnus, an wary look in his eyes as though he wants to say something but is not sure how. Magnus feels it to, the words hanging unsaid between them like a cure.

Magnus wants to kiss him so badly, his body edges forward but stops as he hears the heart-sinking sound of the loft door opening, knowing it can only be one person. They both turn to see Jace and Clary rushing towards them, as usual panicked looks on their faces.

Magnus rolls his eyes and walks towards the living room, 'Don't you people have phones?'