Chapter 6

Revelations

Part 3

The OP's center was full of Shadowhunters. Clary and the team were huddled together at the back of the room. Mayrse Lightwood stood at a podium. She looked like an older, uptight version of Izzy with a constant scowl, her ebony hair pulled back into a tight bun. The Shadowhunters were talking quietly to themselves.

"If I may have your attention, please." Mayrse said, a full alpha command.

Everyone stopped and turned to face her at the podium.

"As you all know, my son, Alexander Lightwood has now been missing for three days. He's deactivated his tracking rune, but we still believe him to be in the city. His parabati, Clary Fairchild, can still sense Alexander through their parabati bond. Wherever he is, he's in distress and is probably unable to defend himself from an attack or any other danger in his 'condition'. You have all done an excellent job in the search for him since his disappearance. I must give my personal gratitude to his team, as they have been attempting to locate him from the beginning, before the rest of this Institute became aware of his absence. They are Clary Fairchild, Isabelle Lightwood, Jace Herondale, and Simon Lewis. I can't thank you enough for your extensive efforts in trying to find your leader and my son. For those of you new to us today, The New York Institute is grateful for your arrival. While I may seem biased as Alexander is my oldest child, I feel it is imperative that we locate him and return him to the Institute as soon as possible. Ms. Fairchild has and will be continuing to attempt to locate him through their parabati bond. We will also continue to try and locate him through his tracking rune, should he reactivate it. Also, as I speak, my husband, Robert Lightwood, is on his way to see The High Warlock of Brooklyn, with hopes that perhaps Warlock Bane can assist in locating Alexander."

Whispers broke out amongst the crowd.

"Silence, please!" Mayrse commanded.

The room went quiet as all attention was returned to her at the podium.

"Thank you. Now, you've all been split into teams and given your orders. Alexander's team will continue searching using Ms. Fairchild's parabati bond. You will all receive new information as we receive it. Thank you." She said curtly. Without another word she turned and left the OP's center.

The gathered Shadowhunters started speaking in earnest, some discussing strategy during their search, others whispering that it was a waste of resources to spend so much time and dispatching so many hunters to look for an 'omega whore'.

Hearing the degrading words of the various hunters made Clary's blood boil. She stood there, seething, unable to speak. 'How can they think so little of him after all that he's done' she thought. Sensing her distress Jace wrapped her in her in his arms, offering comfort and support.

Izzy was just as enraged as Clary. However, she could speak. "Hey!" Izzy shouted, full alpha. All eyes turned to her. "Anybody who has a problem helping to find my missing brother, say it now and say it loud, TO MY FACE!´ She demanded. "My brother may be an 'omega', but he is still by far a better Shadowhunter than any of you. By the angel, he trained more than half of you. He's the best and you all know it. So if you have a problem with this mission, speak now and take your leave." She commanded with as much alpha as she could muster. Several Shadowhunters cringed at her command. Simon wrapped his arms around her waist to try and calm her. She was shaking with rage.

The room was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop. No one dared to speak. They all knew of Alexander Lightwood and his skills in combat, and those of his team. They were bad ass, and deadly when they needed to be. They all knew that his sister, or any of his teammates, could drop them on their asses in a heartbeat without so much as blinking. Challenging her was worse, and considerably more dangerous, than challenging Mayrse Lightwood herself.

"Nobody?" Izzy asked, voice seething.

Silence filled the room.

"Then get to it. You have your orders." She commanded.

Quickly the Shadowhunters that filled the OP's center gathered their gear and filed out in pairs, no one daring to look back at her.

"It's alright, love. He's fine and you know it." Simon whispered in her ear. "Just calm yourself." He said, kissing her lightly on her cheek. She huffed out a breath, obviously still angry.

Magnus looked down at his sleeping Shadowhunter. The sleeping draft he had given him the night before had him still sleeping peacefully. His angel was beautiful, especially when he slept. He couldn't help but gaze lovingly at his mate while he looked so innocent and pure.

Suddenly one of his wards went off. A ward only he could hear, indicating that a nephilim was outside the building. He had been expecting this. His mates team weren't due for another few hours. Ever so gently he ran his hand through Alec's hair, sending a gentle wave of magic into his sleeping angel, pushing him into a heavier, deeper sleep. One that it would take some time for him to emerge from. Leaning down he kissed his love gently on the forehead before he turned and left, magically sealing and soundproofing the room behind him.

Magnus waited a moment before answering the buzzer at the door. He wondered who it would be, Mayrse; the unloving mother, Robert; the brutal and heartless father, or some random Clave official who probably really didn't give a damn. He waited as the buzzer sounded again. With a sigh he pushed the answer button.

"Who dares disturb The High Warlock of Brooklyn!" He barked into the speaker.

"Robert Lightwood, from The New York Institute. I need your help." Came Robert's voice through the speaker.

'So it's the brutal and heartless father' Magnus thought. "And what service do you seek here?" Magnus asked.

"I need help locating a missing Shadowhunter." Robert replied.

"Shadowhunters disappear and die every day. Why should I help you with this one?" Magnus asked, curious to hear the answer.

"Because he's my son." Robert said, voice strained.

Magnus waited a minute before he replied. He wanted Robert to stew.

"Come on up. Penthouse. And you'll have to use the stairs." Magnus finally said, pressing the buzzer to unlock the door downstairs.

'Robert sounded tired. Perhaps he truly is worried about his son.' Magnus thought as he waited for Robert to eventually reach the landing. Fifteen minutes later there was a knock on his door. Magnus was just finishing his cup of coffee.

Walking to the door Magnus magically unsealed it before unlocking and opening it. On the other side stood a very exhausted and disheveled looking Robert Lightwood. He looked as if he hadn't slept in days. And the bags under his eyes suggested he may have been crying. Magnus held his pity. He wanted to hear what Robert had to say for himself first.

"Warlock Bane. Thank you for seeing me. I'm in desperate need of your help. My son is a missing omega Shadowhunter. I beg of you, please help me." Robert pleaded.

"Come inside." Magnus said, wondering if he had perhaps misjudged the elder Lightwood.

He stepped aside, allowing Robert entrance. In his hands he carried Alec's bow and quiver.

"What is that?" Magnus asked, knowing full well what it was.

"It's my sons. I'm sure you've heard of The Archer?" Robert asked. "My son is Alexander Lightwood."

"I see. And why have you brought this?" Magnus asked, honestly curious.

"We've tried tracking him with every personal effect we've been able to find. Short of clothing and a few photos there isn't much. Then I thought of this. I can't tell you how many times over the years Alexander has said that his bow felt like an extension of himself. I thought perhaps it might be the strongest personal effect there is." Robert said, extending it out to Magnus.

Magnus took it carefully from Robert's outstretched arms. He knew this would be most precious to his sleeping mate.

"Tell me." Magnus said. "Why reach out to a 'downworlder' to locate your missing son? You said that he presented as an omega. If memory serves, the Clave doesn't look to kindly towards omegas."

"I don't give a damn what he presented as. He's my son and he's missing. I have no idea what kind of condition he's in or what kind of danger. The only reason that I know he's even still alive is because of his parabati. I need to find him and know that he's safe." Robert said, voice weary and exhausted. He appeared to be a nearly broken man.

'Hmm…he seems sincere enough. And looks like an exhausted father who's been searching for his son for just over two days'. Magnus thought.

"There are several spells I can try to use to locate your son, Mr. Lightwood. But it will cost the Institute dearly." Magnus said.

"Whatever the cost, we'll pay it. You have my word. I just want my boy back." Robert said, tears welling in his eyes.

"Very well. Unfortunately I can only perform one spell at a time, and I have dozens I can try. It will take some time to try them all. I will send you a fire message if I locate him, or, if after exhausting all measures, I can't. But you need to leave this here with me. Each of my spells require a strong personal effect. I assure you no harm will come to it." Magnus said gently. He had heard the sincerity in Robert's voice. He truly did care about his son.

"Thank you. Thank you so much." Robert said, a touch of hope in his voice. "I'll leave you to it then."

Gently laying Alexander's bow on the counter Magnus escorted Robert to the door.

"I'll let you know as soon as I know something." Magnus assured. Robert reached out to shake Magnus' hand. Hesitantly he returned the gesture. Once Robert had left, Magnus locked and magically resealed the doors. He had a lot to think about, he thought.

Magnus sat beside Alec on the bed, watching as his Alexander slept. He didn't want to wake him, his angel needed the rest. But the others were here.

"Alexander, sweetheart, it's time to wake up." Magnus said gently, stroking Alec's porcelain pale cheek, marveling at the softness. Alec stirred at the touch.

"Come one, love. Open your eyes." Magnus encouraged. "Your friends are here."

Alec groaned in pain.

"I know, honey. It's time for your potions. Let me see those beautiful blue eyes." Magnus said, lifting Alec's hand to his lips and pressing a soft kiss to it.

Alec's eyes fluttered open as a pleasant shudder skittered down his spine, eyes still fogged over with sleep.

"There you are. Good morning." Magnus said, pressing a second kiss to Alec's hand. "I have a few things for you. I want you to drink this one first. It'll help wake you up." He said, uncorking a small vial.

Alec tried to sit up, but pain shot through him.

"No, no. I'll bring it to you. I know your hurting." Magnus said as Alec fell back into his mountain of pillows. Tilting Alec's head up slightly he put the vial up to Alec's lips. Alec downed the contents with a grimace.

"What in the angels name was that?" Alec asked, nearly gagging on the potion. Magnus quickly pressed a straw to Alec's lips. Alec drank greedily.

"Sorry about that, love. I know it has an awful taste. But it was necessary. Just drink and rinse your mouth out." Magnus said.

"I don't think awful is the right word for that, please don't ever give me that again." Alec said, pushing the water away.

"I'm sorry, sweetheart. But the others are here and are anxious to see you. Now for these. These your used to." Magnus said, uncorking the second vial.

This time Alec took it from him, swallowing the contents. Uncorking the third vial, Alec did the same.

"There. That should have you feeling better in no time." Magnus said. Alec sighed deeply.

"Is this pain ever going to end?" Alec asked, considerably more awake than he was.

"It will. I promise. Just a few more days to go and your heat will pass." Magnus said, brushing a stray lock of hair from Alec's eyes. "Feel better?"

"Quite a bit, actually. Can I sit up now?" Alec asked.

"Yes. But do it slowly. That was a potent sleeping draft I gave you last night, and you were already exhausted." Magnus said, helping Alec into a sitting position.

Alec tried stretching out his arms. His heat made him feel weak, tired, and sore.

"Missing your morning routine?" Magnus asked, watching his mate try and loosen his muscles.

"Yes and no. I love waking up here. I love being near you, smelling your scent. Waking up to that is the best part of my day." Alec said with a smile. "But I do miss my early morning workouts, when it's just me, or my early mundane classes before everyone else is up. And I miss working out and training with my team. Even when it does make my muscles ache and scream for relief. It feels weird not getting a good work out in. I also miss planning missions and hunting."

"Well, once your heat has passed and your fully back on your feet, I'll build you a training room." Magnus said, with a small smile for his Shadowhunter. "How's that sound?"

"It sounds great. You said my team is here?" Alec asked.

"Yes. And waiting for you. Have the potions taken full effect?" Magnus asked.

"I think so. And I think I may have made a bit of a mess again." Alec said, blushing.

"Don't worry, love. It's just a little slick. Nothing a quick wash won't fix. It's to be expected. Why don't you go grab a quick shower and get dressed? I laid out some clothes for you in the bathroom."

Alec sighed. He missed his own clothes, and his gear. He missed being a Shadowhunter.

"What is it, angel?" Magnus asked, concerned.

"It's nothing really. I just kinda miss some of my own things." Alec said. "Not that yours aren't great. I just miss my own."

"I understand, but we'll remedy that." Magnus said, leaning in to kiss Alec on the forehead. "I'll be out with the others if you need me."

"Okay. I'll be right out." Alec said.

Magnus stood and quietly slipped out the door. His mate deserved some privacy. With a heavy sigh Alec climbed out of bed. He stood, looking down at the slick soaked ruby linens, slick running down the back of his thighs. Without a backward glance, he crossed the room to the bathroom.

Alec stepped into the living room. His family was sitting comfortably on various couches, couches that weren't there the day before, munching on muffins and drinking coffee. Clary was the first to notice him.

"Alec! There you are." Clary said, handing her coffee to Jace and running towards him. Before he could blink, she jumped into his arms, squeezing him in a tight hug. "We've been so worried about you." She whispered into his neck.

"It's okay, Clary. I'm fine. Just a little sore." Alec said, gently prying her off him.

"Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you." She said, quickly pulling back from him. Izzy was right behind her.

"Move, parabati. I want to hug my brother." Izzy said, nudging Clary aside. She stepped gently into her big brothers warm embrace. "I missed you so much. I know it was just one night but it's not the same not having you home."

"Is it even my home anymore?" Alec asked, so softly only she could hear.

"That, I honestly don't know." Izzy whispered back. "But the Clave has sent more hunters to the Institute to help with the search for you." She said, letting her brother go. "Come sit down. Magnus made muffins and coffee. There delicious. But I know you'll ruin it with tea." She said, tugging him towards the living room. He had no choice but to follow.

Midway to the living room Alec stopped.

"Is that my bow?" Alec asked, both shocked and delighted.

"Yep. And you'll never guess who brought it." Jace said, lifting his coffee mug in greeting.

Alec reached out, running his hand reverently across the one thing that meant the most to him. A piece of himself. He picked it up, feeling the pull of the string. It felt wonderful in his hands. Like an old friend. Picking up an arrow he smoothly notched it.

"Careful with that, please. I know that your an expert with it, but it is a deadly weapon." Magnus said, smiling at his Shadowhunter.

Alec carefully unnotched the arrow and returned it to his quiver, then carefully laid down the bow beside it.

"How did it get here?" Alec asked, still awed that his most precious possession had somehow been returned to him.

"Come sit, and I'll fill you in." Magnus said.

Alec walked into the new 'living room' and looked around for a seat.

"Sit here, darling. It'll be the most comfortable place for you, I made the cushions extra cushy." Magnus said, leading Alec to an overstuffed, comfortable looking armchair. Beside it, on a small table, sat a steaming cup of tea and a basket of various oversized muffins. "What kind of muffin would you like?"

"Actually, I'm not hungry just yet, but I will take the tea." Alec said, hoping to placate his mate. He didn't want to hurt his feelings, but he had absolutely no appetite.

"Alexander, you have to eat. You haven't eaten since the day you got here. That was two days ago." Magnus said, worried.

"I know. I guess my stomach isn't really awake yet. I'll have one in a bit. I promise." Alec said, reaching up to squeeze Magnus' hand.

"Okay. I'll buy that for now. But I'm going to hold you to your promise." Magnus said. He was growing concerned about his mates lack of appetite. Omegas usually have constant cravings while in heat when they're not mating. 'Maybe the suppression potion is suppressing his appetite as well.' He thought with a frown. "But please drink your tea. It's important for you to stay hydrated."

"I will." Alec said, picking up the still steaming mug.

Magnus turned, taking a seat across from Alec. He was flanked on each side by two Shadowhunters and his omega across from him, completing a circle.

"So." Magnus began. "As I expected I received a visit from one of The Heads of The NY Institute this morning."

Alec choked on his tea.

"Excuse me? Run that by me again?" Alec asked, still coughing intermittently. "Who was it? And why?" Alec asked, anxiously setting his tea aside.

"It was your father. He's the one who brought your bow. I had suspected that once all Shadowhunter methods of tracking you failed, they would come to me for assistance, being The High Warlock of Brooklyn. I just didn't know who it would be." Magnus said gently.

"My father was here? What did he say? What did he want?" Alec asked, obviously distressed by this news.

"Calm yourself love, and I'll tell you." Magnus said. "He came to me asking for help. It was less of a 'I'm The Head of The NY institute demanding that The High Warlock of Brooklyn bow before me and do as I ask' and more of a 'I'm here because I'm trying to find my missing son'." Magnus said. "He brought your bow for me to use to try and track you. I stalled him of course."

"He, of all people, wants to find me? What in the angels name for?! Does he want to see me murdered by the Clave or does he just want to do it himself? I'm an embarrassment to the mighty Lightwood name, remember? I'm a disgrace and never should have been born. I'm not worthy of my nephilim blood. I'm just a filthy omega whore. He's been nothing but cruel and hateful to me since I presented. Was he ever warm and fuzzy? No. If he ever was, I was too young to remember it." Alec said, cheeks flushed with anger.

"Calm yourself, sweetheart. Or this ends here." Magnus said, pushing alpha into his tone. This time Alec didn't shutter in response, he was too angry.

"Hear Magnus out, Alec. We don't know what dads intentions were." Izzy said.

"I don't give a damn about his intentions. Even if you set the last three months aside, Izzy, that doesn't change a whole lot. He's always treated me like shit. Pushing me, belittling me in training and in the field. Always pushing me harder than everyone else. You got off easy with him, Iz. I didn't." Alec said, practically taking her head off.

"Maybe there's more to that than we know." Clary said, the voice of reason. "Maybe he did push you too hard, and I'm not saying that it was either right or fair. But look at you. Your the best Shadowhunter in the world. I know your parent's have always treated you badly, and I understand your anger. But maybe there was a reason that he pushed you harder than everyone else. Maybe he was just trying to help you reach your full potential."

"That's bullshit and we both know it, Clary, so please don't feed me that crap." Alec snapped.

"Watch it." Jace warned, pulling Clary protectively into his arms.

"Oh for the angels sake, Jace! Do you really think that I would hurt her? My own parabati?" Alec asked, incredulous.

"Right now man, I don't know what you'll do. This whole omega hormone shit has sort of rattled your brains. And your proving it now." Jace said defensively.

"Alright, everybody. Let's just take a deep breath and calm down. Alexander, honey, come here." Magnus said.

"Why?" Alec asked, petulant.

"Just come here please." Magnus asked gently.

With a huff Alec climbed out of his chair and crossed the room to Magnus. Magnus reached up, pulling Alec down into his lap. Gently he pushed Alec's nose into his scent glands.

"Just breathe, angel. Just breathe and calm yourself." Magnus said softly, stroking Alec's hair. Alec took in a deep breath of Magnus' alpha scent. With a soft sigh he rested his head on Magnus' shoulder. "That's right. Just breathe."

With each breath Alec's anger began to ease. His alphas scent was wrapping around him like a warm blanket, filling him with a promise of warmth and safety. Breath by breath his anger faded.

"Better?" Magnus asked once he felt Alec relax in his arms. Alec could only nod, yes. "Good."

"Are you alright, Alec?" Clary asked, already knowing the answer. She could feel the sense of peace that had passed through her parabati once he had his mates sent to calm him. As much as it comforted her with all that had been going on to know and feel that her parabati was safe, she would be glad when Alec's heat ended, and she could no longer feel his every emotion as if it where her own.

"Yes, Clary. Thank you." Alec said softly, still nestled in Magnus' lap.

"And you!" Clary said, rounding on Jace. "You should know that Alec would never hurt me. We're parabati. Omega hormones or not. He isn't capable of hurting me, or any of us. We're his team. We're family. Do you really believe that if a greater demon came barreling through that door that Alec wouldn't be the first one in the line of fire, heat or no heat? Apologize. Now!"

Jace visibly paled at this mates words. He knew she was right. No matter what condition Alec might be in, he would always put his family first.

"Alec, I'm sorry. I was out of line." Jace said.

"It's okay." Alec murmured, falling asleep in Magnus' arms.

"Okay. I think you've had enough, darling." Magnus said, rising to his feet with Alec in his arms. He crossed over to Alec's chair and sat him gently back down. "Now take a few nice, deep breaths for me."

Alec did as Magnus asked and his head began to clear.

"What was that?" Alec asked, still groggy as Magnus snapped his fingers, warming his tea.

"An omega is more sensitive to their mates scent while in heat. It's far more potent and quite intoxicating." Magnus said gently, handing Alec his tea. "Drink this. The hit of caffeine will help."

Watching Alec sip his tea, Magnus returned to his seat.

"Now, where was I? Right. Robert Lightwood came to see me this morning. I was honestly surprised when I saw him. Not because he was Robert Lightwood, Head of The NY Institute, but because of the way he looked as well as his demeanor. He looked for all the world like he hadn't slept in days." Magnus said, eyeing Alec. "When I asked him why he was here, he said he needed help 'because his son was missing' and 'he needed to find him to know that he was safe'."

"Why?" Alec asked. "Why does he care that I'm 'missing' and 'why does he need to know I'm safe'. He's never given a damn about my safety before. He's never expressed any kind of concern over any of us before. Ever. We're Shadowhunters. Danger is our middle name. And why in the angels name do I suddenly matter? I'm an omega, remember? A disgrace."

"I'm glad you brought that up, darling. I asked him something similar about your omega status and he said, and I quote, 'he didn't give a damn what you presented as, he just wants his boy back'." Magnus said.

The Shadowhunters in the room sat in a shocked silence. Alec tried and failed to form words. Finally, after several attempts, he spoke.

"He doesn't give a damn that I'm an omega? Well, he had some pretty shitty ways of showing it. I don't know what he's up to, but I'm sorry, I don't buy it." Alec said, dropping his head in his hands.

"I agree." Izzy said. "I don't buy it either. You didn't see the way Alec was treated Magnus. Not just by the other Shadowhunters, but by our parents. I know that they expected him to present as a strong alpha, and was trained as such, and that they were shocked when he presented as an omega instead. But that that didn't give them the right to treat him how they did. To say the things they said. He's their oldest child and when Alec needed them the most, after his presentation, they just weren't there. Not in any good way. Not in any 'I'm worried about my son' way. Their up to something and I have no clue what it is, but I don't think it's anything good."

"That may very well be. Sweetheart, is there anything more you'd like to say?" Magnus asked, aching inside at the look of heartbreak on his angels face.

"No." Alec said. "But I really don't want to hear anymore." He said, standing up to leave.

"So you don't want to hear about Gideon Lightwood?" Magnus asked.

"What does one have to do with the other?" Alec asked with an exasperated sigh.

"Sit back down, love. You'll understand a lot more once you know everything." Magnus said.

"Fine. Only because I want to know about Gideon." Alec said, sitting back down.

He wanted to leave. To hide. From his mate, from his family. He didn't want them to see him cry. They had already seen him be too emotional and vulnerable in the last two days. He wouldn't show them anymore weakness. He was their leader. Their commander. He was supposed to be the strong one. He was supposed to be strong for them. It was his job to be caring and compassionate when need they needed him to be, it was his job to be the shoulder to cry on when they needed comfort, and it was his job to give them his unyielding support in any situation. Yes, he could be hard on them sometimes, but that was because he loved them. He wanted them to be the best, not just to be the best, but because he wanted them to be safe and well equipped enough to handle anything. He wanted them to be faster and stronger, to have skills no other Shadowhunters had ever had so they might just live long enough to grow old and have families. Most Shadowhunters died young. He didn't want that for them, so they were the ones he would learn more for, train more for, to train them for what was out there. It was his job to teach them anything and everything he could. He would do anything for them, but his pain and tears were his and his alone. Just like they always have been.

"I think we should take a break." Clary said. The tumult of Alec's emotions where breaking her heart. She may not know what he was thinking, but she knew that he was in pain. She could feel his heartache.

"I think that would be wise." Magnus said, having watched the emotions play across his beloveds face. "How about we reconvene in about fifteen minutes?"

A chorus of yeses and agreements came from the Shadowhunters. Alec didn't make a sound.

"Fifteen minutes then. Feel free to help yourself to additional refreshments." Magnus said, climbing from his seat.

As his mates family scattered across the loft getting into Lucifer knows what, Magnus went to his mate. Stopping in front of him he crouched down, taking his angels his hands in his own.

"Sweetheart, I'm not going to ask you if your okay because I know your not. I can only ask if there is anything I can do to help. Is there anything, anything at all that I can do that will help you?" Magnus asked softly. He was worried that he had once again pushed his omega emotionally too far. But he had had a right to know about his father's visit.

"Is there anywhere that I can target practice?" Alec asked, barely more than a whisper.

"You mean with your bow? If that will help, I can find a place." Magnus said, relieved that his mate may have an outlet for his emotions. "How far of a distance do you need?"

"I don't know. Five hundred feet?" Alec asked.

Magnus was momentarily shocked by his mates request. He knew that the Shadow World called him The Archer, and that he was the most skilled Shadowhunter alive with a bow, but that was a far greater distance than he had expected.

"Get your bow and meet me at the patio doors." Magnus said, bringing Alec's hand up for a gentle kiss.

Standing, Magnus crossed to the patio doors and opened them. He stood, looking out, trying to find the furthest target he could. After several minutes of searching he spotted a building a little over six hundred feet away. Magically he placed a concealed target on the side of the building. He turned to call for his mate, but he was already there, standing behind him.

"Is that far enough, love? I can find one closer if you would like." Magnus said.

"It's fine. I can see it well enough." Alec said, confident.

"Okay. I've cast a strong glamour from here to there. No one will see you as long as you stay within the loft. And only we can see you shoot. No one will know, be it downworlder, nephilim, or mundane. Your arrows will be invisible to them." Magnus said, stepping to the side. Alec had already collected his bow and quiver.

The rest of the team had gathered around behind Alec, giving him plenty of room to move.

"This will be fun." Jace whispered to Clary. "How many times do you think he will split his arrows?"

"All of them." Clary whispered back.

"I can hear you talking. Please be quiet." Alec asked as he notched his first arrow. He waited while his team activated their vision runes.

Magnus was hopeful that this would cheer his mate up. But he was also afraid that if he failed in hitting his target, it would only make things worse. He watched as his Shadowhunter took aim and released the arrow.

Alec took a few deep breaths while sighting the target. The feel of his bow in his hands and his arrow ready to fly felt like home. With one last breath he set the arrow free.

The room was silent as they watched Alec let loose the arrow that would either make him or break him today. It flew, faster than the speed of sound and slammed into the center of the target so hard the arrow shattered.

Magnus watched his mate in awe. Now he truly understood why the Shadow World called him The Archer. He truly was magnificent. His grace and confidence when he took his stance, while he notched and pulled back the arrow, was the most graceful thing he had ever seen in over 800 years. And watching while the arrow flew through the Brooklyn skyline was mesmerizing. Watching while the arrow struck the target dead center hard enough that it shattered into bits took his breath away.

Alec felt the weight he didn't know he had been carrying melt away as he released the arrow. He had held his breath as he released it, watching as it flew through the air, and released it once the arrow had struck home. At least this heat shit wasn't affecting his aim. In that moment he knew, he was still a Shadowhunter, not a helpless omega. He hadn't lost himself. Notching a second arrow he released it, watching as it sped through the air, hitting dead center and shattering like the one before. He released a dozen more before he felt himself take his first easy breath in days. For the second time that day he couldn't have been more grateful that his father had brought his bow, whatever his intentions were.

Clary leaned over the couch and planted a loud, lip smacking kiss on Alec's cheek. She could feel his happiness. He hadn't been this happy in months.

"Clary! What in the angels name was that for?" Alec asked, wiping the invisible kiss off his cheek.

"Yeah! What was that for?" Jace asked, a low growl erupting from his chest.

"Oh hush, you." Clary said to Jace. "That was a happiness kiss." She said to Alec. "I haven't felt you be this happy in ages. And it deserves a happiness kiss."

"Isn't that my job now?" Magnus asked with a smirk. He had no problems with his mates parabati giving him an innocent kiss on the cheek.

"Sorry, Magnus. I couldn't help it." Clary said innocently.

"I'll let it slide this time, biscuit. But please leave future kisses to me." Magnus said with a smile. Alec blushed furiously on the couch. "Are we all ready to hear about Gideon Lightwood?"

A chorus of yes filled the room.

"Then everybody find a seat." Magus said, sitting beside his angel. He wanted to be near him when he revealed what he was about too. "Are you ready for this, darling. It's going to be hard to hear."

"Ready or not, I have to know the rest. So yes." Alec said.

"Alright. But I can stop at any time if you need a break." Magnus said. "But before I start, drink this." He said, holding a small vile out to Alec.

"What is it?" Alec asked.

"It's a nourishment potion. Since you won't eat, I have to get something into you. Please drink it." Magnus said.

"Okay. I'll drink it, for you." Alec said, taking the vile from Magnus. Uncorking it he downed the contents. He grimaced at the taste. "Well, at least it wasn't as bad as the last one you gave me." Alec said, handing the vile back to Magnus.

"Before I forget." Izzy said as she reached into her back pocket, pulling Alec's stele out.

"Where on earth did you get that, Iz? I thought I'd lost it." Alec asked, taking it from her extended hand.

"You did. One of the other hunters in one of the search parties found it and it was traced back to you." Izzy said. "I thought you might like it back. Were supposed to be using it to try and track you."

"Thank you, Iz." Alec said, standing to pull her into a tight hug. "I've been wondering where it was."

"Your welcome, dear brother." Izzy said with, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek before returning to her seat beside Simon.

Alec sat back down, turning his stele over and over in his hands, inspecting every inch and rune.

"You know you can't use that, right darling?" Magnus asked. Alec looked at him, confused. "I don't know about much about angelic runes, just some basics, but until I know that they won't be able to track you if you use it, it's not safe. Not until I can adjust my wards. Until then you'll have to tuck it away. I'm sorry."

Alec turned his stele one last time in his hands before holding it out to Magnus.

"Then you better hold onto it. So I'm not tempted." Alec said, sadness in his eyes.

Magnus took the stele from his angels hand. He hated that he was the cause of the look in his Shadowhunters beautiful blue eyes. He knew a Shadowhunters stele was a part of them, something they never let go of.

"Don't worry, love. I'll give it back to you as soon as I can. But I have to make sure you stay safe." Magnus said.

"I know. Thank you. Can we change the subject please?" Alec asked.

"Yeah. We want to know about Gideon Lightwood." Simon said.

"Alright. On to Gideon Lightwood." Magnus said, pulling his love into his arms. "As I said before. I first met Gideon Lightwood a little over a century ago at a Shadowhunter ball. He presented as an omega in 1904. He was the first male omega to present since The Great Purge. And unfortunately in was a public presentation. He presented at home, as most nephilim do, at an elaborate eighteenth birthday party. At the time the Lightwood's where a very influential family and worked very closely with the Clave, so a few Clave officials were invited to Gideon's party. Having two alpha parents and no new omega presentations since the Great Purge, that they knew of, they were certain that he would present as a strong, reputable alpha. Someone that would carry on the Lightwood legacy. Everyone was shocked when he presented as a male omega and not an alpha as expected. The party ended quickly after his presentation and Gideon was rushed to his chambers. Rumors tell that his parents were frantic. They had no idea what to do. As with the Clave, they had no knowledge of the downworlder protection of omegas. They were certain that their son would be killed. A few days passed as Gideon's parents begged the Clave and used as much influence as they had to get a reprieve for him. After a few council meetings and several debates, it was decided that the Clave would take no action against Gideon on the condition that he not mate or have children. He was an excellent Shadowhunter. He was well trained and excellent with a bow. Much like someone else we know." Magnus said, squeezing Alec's hand. "Shortly after the decision was made, as Gideon was of age, he moved out of the Lightwood house and into a small cottage in the countryside. He sought isolation from the other Shadowhunters that treated him much like Alexander has been treated. The difference there was that Gideon was constantly being more than verbally attacked but physically attacked as well by his fellow Shadowhunters for being an omega. He was excellent in hand to hand combat and usually walked away with no more than a few bruises while his attackers generally ended up in the infirmary. But as you can probably imagine, that was not the life Gideon wanted to live. He felt as though he could no longer able to trust his fellow Shadowhunters in training or in the field. He was granted permission to leave the Institute for his own safety. So he left Idris Institute, were the Lightwood home was at the time, into his little cottage. One thing that you should know is that all omega Lightwood's seem to find a fated mate. Not long after Gideon settled into his new home, he came across his fated mate, Alexander, on a hunting trip. Legend says that they fell in love the moment their eyes met, never haven spoken a word. Initially they met in secret while they came to know each other, Alexander sneaking off from his Institute, so they could be together. Once Gideon's first heat hit, he sent a coded message to Alexander asking him to stay away until his heat passed. At the time his heat set in he was still innocent. But Alexander couldn't stay away. So he made up a story with his family and his Institute about taking a trip to Idris and that he would be gone for a few days. He wasn't willing to let Gideon suffer through his heat alone. Alexander was an alpha and craved to mate with Gideon, but Gideon didn't want his first time to be while he was in heat. Alexander understood and respected that wish. But he saw Gideon through his first heat, tending to him, trying to make him comfortable and so forth. He gave Gideon as much physical and emotional relief as he could while still honoring Gideon's wishes. Together they managed to successfully get Gideon through his first heat with his innocence still intact. But after sharing the intimacy that they had during Gideon's heat, they both wanted more. So shortly after Gideon's heat passed, he willingly gave himself to Alexander who then mated and claimed him. Gideon knew that he had violated the Clave's decree, but he didn't care. All he wanted was his Alexander. But when Gideon's second heat hit, they mated and Gideon fell pregnant. For years their relationship remained secret. Alexander would come to Gideon whenever he could, constantly craving his mate and their relationship. Alexander no longer wanted to live a double life. He wanted to stay with his mate. That was when he told his family that he wanted to move out of the Institute and be out on his own, finding his own place and returning to the Institute as frequently as possible for training and hunting. He was at Gideon's side throughout as much as Gideon's pregnancy a he could be, tending to his every need. As Gideon began growing bigger and bigger, larger than a normal pregnancy should be, he sought out to the nearest warlock he could find. She is actually an old friend of mine. She examined Gideon and with her magic determined that he was, as most omegas did, carrying multiples. Triplets. She is an excellent healer and to this day works as a midwife for many downworlder and omega families. When it came time for Gideon to deliver, Catarina successfully delivered their three baby girls. Both Gideon and Alexander were ecstatic. But Alexander had to spend a great deal of time away from his love and children as he was still a Shadowhunter. He came home as often as he could while Gideon worked to raise their daughters. As far as the Clave was concerned, Gideon was still living his life under their order not to mate or have children. Five years later a Clave Envoy passed through the countryside heading to Alexander's Institute not far from where Gideon's cottage was. They saw him outside playing with his girls. Upon arrival at the Institute word was immediately sent to Idris to inform the Council of Gideon's transgressions. Once Alexander rushed home to try and protect his family. Both Alexander and Gideon were skilled Shadowhunters, although Gideon was a little rusty. They prepared for what they knew was coming. They were going to protect their children or die trying. At the time no one knew who Gideon's mate was until Alexander disappeared from the Institute. Three days later the Shadowhunters came. Both Gideon and Alexander fought fiercely to protect their children but two where killed. Alexander and Gideon were both captured. They were severely outnumbered. Their oldest daughter, five year old Arabella, escaped into the forest. The Shadowhunters restraining Alexander, his friends and fellow Shadowhunters, forced him watch as they murdered Gideon, slicing him open from hip to hip, ripping out his womb, to send a message to any future male omegas not to mate. It was unbeknownst to them that Gideon was with child. It was with Gideon's dying breaths that he kept screaming for Arabella to run. Gideon was twenty-three when he died. After Gideon's brutal murder Alexander's throat was slit by his own parabati."

Alexander was trembling fiercely in Magnus' arms. The room was deathly quiet.

"Alexander, love, talk to me. Tell me what you need." Magnus said softly, unsure how to calm or help his mate.

"He's terrified." Clary whispered. "He's terrified of what the Clave will do once they find out about you two."

"Don't worry about that, sweetheart. Your safe. I will keep you safe. They can't penetrate my wards. I promise you. As long as we're together, your safe." Magnus said, gently cupping cheek.

"I can never go back, can I?" Alec asked, voice trembling.

"No, honey. You can't. Not until we know what today's Clave and Council will do. What happened to Gideon and Alexander happened over a century ago. Times change. As I said before, today's Clave may know nothing of The Great Purge or what happened to Gideon Lightwood or his mate. We know. The downworlders know. As I've said, we've been keeping records since before the Purge and everything after. Everything that I've just told you is thoroughly documented in The Omega chronicles that was started after the Purge. It contains everything there is to know about every omega since the Purge. Who they are, where they live, which warlock is watching over them, enforcing the protective wards around them, all of the omegas that the Clave knows nothing about, it's all there." Magnus said softly, rubbing a hand through his angels hair, trying to calm and sooth him.

"Am I in there? In The Omega chronicles?" Alec asked.

"Yes, darling, you are. From the moment you presented, you were entered into the chronicles. Just as I am now listed as your fated mate. I didn't know when I went in search of you that you would be my fated mate, my other half. All I knew was that I was searching for a male omega Shadowhunter in distress. I knew that I had to find you, to protect you at all costs." Magnus said.

"But you gave us such a hard time." Clary said. "You asked us why you should get involved in this."

"You're right, I did. Despite my words at the time, I had every intention of finding Alexander, to protect him. But I needed more Information. And you gave it to me. Now you have to take into account that I didn't know you. All I knew was that there were four Shadowhunters searching for a male omega Shadowhunter. Do you understand now, after everything that I've told you, why I was the way I was? Despite your words, I didn't know your true intentions. For all I knew it could have been a ruse. I had no reason to believe that you were actually searching for Alexander because you loved him. Because your his family. After everything I know about Shadowhunter and omega history, do you understand why I didn't trust you?" Magnus asked.

"Yes." Izzy said, tears streaming down her cheeks. "You try not to involve yourself with Shadowhunters because of all of the horrible things you've seen them do to their own people over and over again for centuries. The omega gene didn't die out. It was killed off. You had no reason to trust us. You have no reason to trust any non-omega Shadowhunter. Omega Shadowhunters you will seek out and protect, protect them from their own kind. It shouldn't be that way. It never should have been that way. I'm glad you found my brother. I'm glad your his fated mate, because you can protect him. You can keep him safe. After hearing all this, I don't know who we should be fighting for. The Clave that kills their own kind? The demons that we spend countless hours training for to hunt down to protect the mundanes? Why aren't we fighting to protect the hidden omegas from Shadowhunters? Shadowhunters that turn on their friends and even their parabati's. I honestly don't know that I want to be a Shadowhunter anymore."

"Izzy's right. Who should we be trying to protect?" Jace asked.

"I can't answer that for you. That's a decision your going to have to make on your own. But I do suggest that you wait to make that decision until you know more. There's more to this story. This is only the start of Gideon Lightwood's legacy. And there's much more you need to know, about the past and the present. But right now my angel needs to rest. He's heard enough for now." Magnus said, pressing a soft kiss on Alec's brow. "Let's get you to bed, love, you need to rest for a bit."

"Okay." Alec murmured. Thoughts and emotions were running rampant through him. He couldn't sort them out. The horrors of what he had just heard were racing through his mind, over and over again. Mental images of what his own people had done to his ancestors, and countless more. And what they might do to him had his head spinning and his stomach churning.

Gently Magnus reached beneath Alec's knees, lifting him into his arms. "It's going to be alright, love. I've got you now." Magnus murmured in Alec's ear.

Moving quickly he pushed the bedroom door open and carried Alec inside. He laid him carefully on the sapphire blue linens, tucking him in with the soft duvet and satin sheet. He could see the angst and turmoil in his angels eyes. Snapping his fingers a vial appeared in his hand.

"Sweetheart, I need you to drink this. It will ease your mind and help you rest." Magnus said, brushing a soft lock of ebony hair from Alec's eyes. Gently lifting Alec's head he held the vile to Alec's lips. Alec swallowed it without question.

"There now, love. Just rest. I'll be right here." Magnus said, taking his place at Alec's side.

With a deep breath Alec closed his eyes, instantly drifting off into a dreamless sleep. Magnus took Alec's hand in his own, kissing it softly. 'There is so much more his angel needs to know, but right now he wouldn't be able to handle it. He would break if he tried.' Magnus thought.

Comments, suggestions, and feedback are always welcome! More to come. There is one last part in this

Chapter before the real story begins!