Magnus was used to being asked to do spells, he was the High Warlock of Brooklyn. The only issue with this was that today he'd promised to spend time with Alec. The sky was clear, sparse clouds floating and spinning through it, birds dipped low into the trees before curving up back into the opening. It was an absolutely stunning day.
Alec was crouched on the ground, hands smearing aside grass to reveal the dirt. It made Magnus's heart ache at the sight. Alec was putting up with him now, not actually fine with it. Magnus crossed the clearing to kneel beside him, reaching out to clasp Alec's hand within his own. "I'm sorry." He murmured, catching Alec's curious gaze. Then he smiled, that same smile that lit up his whole face, the same smile that melted Magnus' heart every time. Alec leaned towards him, their lips just barely brushing against each other's. Magnus relished in this feel, eyes closing and defenses falling. It seemed anytime Alec kissed him he weakened. Alec pulled back and pressed his forehead against Magnus'. "Don't apologize love, it's fine. I understand."
Their fingers weaved through each other's, Magnus feeling his breath hitch and heart pound painfully. " Alec." He whispered, free hand roaming up to push aside the locks of hair in his face. "I need you in this life, promise me you'll stay."
Gently, Magnus placed delicate kisses upon Alec's eyelids, his heart stuttering within his chest. Alec leaned forward to kiss under Magnus' chin and along his jaw. "Okay. I promise I will." Alec murmured sweetly before pressing his lips to Magnus's.
Magnus was locked in bliss, his mind relaxed and body slumped closer to Alec. He wished that every moment could be like this, and knew that forever he'd hold onto these memories. He hadn't ever felt a love like Alec's, in all his life. Abruptly Alec jerked back, standing quickly and blushing darkly. Magnus glanced sideways to catch Isabelle approaching quickly. Her hair was sticking out of its ponytail, and her clothes looked crumpled and hastily shoved on. "Isabelle?"
Alec leaned over and hauled Magnus up to his feet by his arm, pausing to whisper in his ear. "They're here." Leaning back Alec walks away from Magnus to approach Isabelle. So far, only Izzy knew that Magnus and Alec were seeing each other. And today Maryse, Robert, and Jace would be here to see Magnus perform the spell. It was simple, summon a higher leveled demon and keep him restrained in the pentagon. It would be easy, especially with several Shadowhunters there decked out and ready to dispose of the demon if it got too out of hand.
Isabelle stopped beside Magnus, smiling brightly. "If you're gonna kiss do it now, my mom's going to be here soon and then we have to start." Magnus didn't need any further instruction, he grabbed Alec quickly and kissed him fiercely, arms encircling the smaller boy. Alec blushed a deep crimson before hesitantly wrapping his arms around Magnus's neck, kissing back equally. Magnus could usually just sink deeply into the kiss, fall deep into a state of unconscious consciousness, where he could clearly feel everything happening without actually being able to do anything about it. Alec made the first move to pull away, glancing off nervously to the side, his blush never receding. "Okay, let's begin."
~~~~
"Magnus NO!"
The world spun at a slow pace, Magnus's mind fading in and out each time he tried to focus. He could feel his chest constricting clearly, pain building within. Nothing a simple healing spell couldn't handle. He heard screams and declarations of no and please by the angel no but he couldn't put a finger to the voice, he just didn't know it.
Magnus stirred slightly, his eyes glazed over with confusion as he stared up into the azure stare of a male. "Magnus!" The man called cheerfully, reaching out to stroke Magnus's cheek, but at the slightest touch Magnus flinched away, up and out of the man's lap. "W-Who are you?" He demanded, sure he was alright with being near attractive men, but when he woke up in pain, in the lap of a strange attractive man, he knew something was wrong. His gaze slowly traversed around, not being able to see through fading smoke but very well knowing that others were there. "M-Magnus?" The man moved toward slightly, and Magnus crawled back farther.
"I-I'm sorry, are you a companion of Will's? Or Jem's? You aren't dressed like them, come to think of it you aren't dressed at all. Clearly you're a Shadowhunter, judging by the runes and so forth, but your apparel is appalling!" The male flinched back as if Magnus's words had struck him deep and Magnus felt slight satisfaction. He hadn't any idea where he was, last he recalled he was being introduced to Tessa, staring into the beautiful eyes of the just as beautiful William Herondale. But this wasn't Will nor was he in London anymore, obviously he was kidnapped and dragged across borders. The thought sent chills down his spine.
"M-Magnus-"
"And that's another thing how do you know my name?!"
"I'm Alexander Gideon Lightwood."
"Impossible, I met all the Lightwood's." The man looked incredulous, eyes widening as if Magnus were the one being difficult. Magnus spotted his opening. The male was flanked by three others; a stunning blonde haired male who reminded Magnus of Woosley, a fierce ravenette who resembled the looks of Magnus's first captor, and a frightened red-head who Magnus felt more comfortable around than any of the others. Just as the ebony haired supposed Lightwood turned to greet his companions, Magnus took off. Magnus knew Shadowhunters, knew their strengths and speeds, but that didn't mean Magnus couldn't attempt. He skidded to a halt at a narrow road, it wasn't cobblestone, it was something else. Magnus eyed it curiously, kneeling down on it to quickly press his finger into it. The pavement seared his finger and he quickly withdrew it. "What kind of trickery is this?" He asked, stunned.
Suddenly a large red figure came hurtling down this scorching not cobblestone road. A high pitched noise blared furiously from it and Magnus quickly raised his hands to set off magic. Before he could, he was yanked back off the pavement and onto another body which tumbled into the grass just as the demon flew past in its tail followed many multicolored other metallic demons. "The Clockwork people have advanced!" Shouted Magnus above the roar of their engines. He struggled out of the grip of the other person only to be pinned down in the dirt. "Dammit Magnus!" Hissed the same voice as earlier.
Magnus's cat-like trailed up to stare into the blue stare of the same Shadowhunter boy as before. "You have to trust me! This isn't your time. Please, just please trust me." Magnus didn't know what it was that made him feel he had to trust him, maybe it was the desperation in his eyes or the pleading tone his voice took up. All Magnus clearly knew, was that this so called 'Alexander Lightwood' was right: Magnus wasn't in 1878 anymore, he was somewhere new. He had no choice but to allow this Shadowhunter to aid him. "Fine." He relinquished. "I trust you."
~~~~
Alec stared at Magnus, horrified by the outcome of the day. Magnus watched curiously, almost in a daze as he wandered around the apartment. "So I... Live here?" He said it in such a way that Alec feared maybe the spell had taken more than just his memory. "W-What do you last recall?" Magnus pondered this momentarily, his fingers still brushing against every little thing in the room. "London." Magnus breathed, smiling sloppily. "I was there with William Herondale." Alec seethed furiously, he'd heard enough about William 'oh so perfect' Herondale to hate him. "Yeah, and he was SUPER straight and SUPER not into you."
Magnus turned to catch Alec's gaze, that unusual feeling of sadness and regret overcoming him once again. "I'm sorry." This took Alec by surprise, he sat back further against the couch, eyes widening slightly. "W-What?" Magnus chuckled slightly, finding the gaze Alec gave him to be endearing. "I said, I'm sorry. I feel that I might've wronged you, and I just can't remember it now. Clearly it's not the eighteen hundreds, therefore I've lost nearly half of my life. It's been centuries since. I can't recall if Will might've faired okay or not." Magnus turned from Alec and nearly screamed, dropping back flat on his backside. "What is that?!"
Alec looked to where he had his finger pointed. "A television? Oh no." Magnus could only recall life back then, where there were no electronics, no Downworlders on the Clave, and many other things. "Come to think of it, this is ALL very strange. Why are you in such ghastly apparel? Why am I in such ghastly apparel. Though I must say I am devastatingly sexy." Alec bit hard against his lip, looking away from Magnus and instead at the window. He wasn't made for the world out there, he couldn't even remember loving Alec, centuries could pass before he remembered. Alec clenched his fists. 'No.' He told himself. 'I'll bring back Magnus. No matter what.'
"It's a television." Alec sighed, eyes turning to regrettably look upon his frightened love again. Magnus swept his gaze along the apartment, scampering away into his bathroom. Alec followed him, curious on why he was exploring. Then again, Magnus constantly explored, curiosity was his weakness. Alec found him watching the shower curiously, fingers outstretched to trace along the showerhead. Shaking his ebony hair out, he flicks on the light switch, watching Magnus flinch with wary before his eyes looked up in fascination. "Wow." He whispered, turning to Alec with a childlike wonderment. "What's this?"
Pointing to the shower, he smiles. "A shower. Here." Leaning past Magnus, he pulls on the handle to turn it on, Magnus gasping before stepping under the shower still fully dressed. Alec had reached out to prevent him, but it was too late. This made Alec pause though, his heart pounding as he overlooked Magnus with desperate longing. He adored the sight of Magnus looking so amazed, his smile never fading from his face as he tilted his head up against the water. "Magnus..." He breathed, gaze lingering on Magnus longer than what was acceptable in this moment, but he couldn't look away. Nor would he leave Magnus while he was in this state of mind, Magnus was lost, and Alec would be the one to save him.
~~~~
Alec was certain that Magnus would be alright for a few hours. Alec had taken the time to explain every individual new item to Magnus before Magnus deemed it time for him to sleep, that meant for Alec it was time for him to seek out assistance. Another Warlock would be smart, or maybe a Faerie could help. No matter what the cost, Alec knew he'd have to find a way to bring back Magnus. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his jacket, he pushes into the institute, eyes closing as the door slammed shut. He couldn't stop envisioning the fearful look on Magnus's face, the scared frightened eyes as he watched the world. He wasn't made for here, and he couldn't even feel anything for Alec.
Alec hadn't ever been the type to cry, very few things could make him, and this time was no exception. He wasn't losing Magnus, he couldn't and wouldn't lose Magnus. There had to be a way. " Alec?"
Alec held his eyes squeezed shut for a few more brief moments until he felt a hand clasp over his shoulder. " Alec, someone is here to see you." Alec opened his eyes, slicked red with unfallen tears. "Hmm? Okay." Wiping at his eyes he pushes past his parabatai, his head turned away from him. " Alec wait."
Alec paused, but didn't turn to face him. "What Jace?" Jace watched him forlornly, saddening, before his eyes cast off to the side quickly. "Nothing."
Alec didn't go to console him, instead he hurried to his room. There was no reason to attempt to make Jace understand, he couldn't and there was no time now. Magnus would be up soon, and Alec had to be back there before then. Entering his room, he raises an eyebrow. In the middle of the room stood a tall man, so tall that he had to look down to see the items on top of Alec's dresser. He swiftly plucked out an arrow from the quiver, his eyes examining it closely. At the sight of the males skin, Alec knew him instantaneously. "Ragnor Fell. Come to gloat?"
Ragnor dropped the arrow unceremoniously onto the dresser, turning to gaze upon Alec with his onyx eyes. "Gloat? For what? If anything I should be reprimanding you."
"It wasn't my intention."
"I know, that's why I'm not going to. Alexander, don't cry." Alec looked away, sinking his teeth into his bottom lip until he tasted blood. "I might be able to help. A restoration spell maybe." Ragnor took a hesitant step forward, unsure of how to console the saddened Shadowhunter. His ebony eyes narrowed sympathetically as he swiftly placed a hand upon the Shadowhunters' shoulder. Alec glanced over to him before, just because he needed to feel comfort in that moment, he wrapped his arms tightly around the emerald skinned man. Ragnor stood, absolutely shocked and confused. Fearful tremors shook his body at the thought of what Alec really meant by the hug. Ragnor and Alec had bonded briefly over various things, but Ragnor didn't trust Shadowhunters- they were cunning, sly, sneaky, and secretive- not to mention notorious murderers of the innocent. But this felt different, Ragnor didn't feel like he was about to be brutally assassinated; actually it felt quite pleasant in his honest opinion, and he decided then that that was what scared him most. Pushing away from Alec, he nervously clears his throat. "R-Right. Anyways, I would suggest speaking to the Seelie Queen, she also has a lot of spells and stuff like that that might be useful."
Alec nodded, smiling widely. Ragnor hadn't reprimanded him for hugging him. 'Magnus would be thrilled to hear that.' Alec thought solemnly. 'The Magnus I knew at least would.'
~~~~
Alec had made it to the Seelie Court. He knew well that the Seelie Queen wouldn't assist just anyone, he also knew that he'd be asked to perform some stupid task in order to gain a favor. He wasn't too keen on being here, but he'd do anything if it could ensure bringing Magnus back. Ragnor hadn't been allowed into the court, so he awaited Alec's presence from outside the entrance. Alec was busy being guided by Meliorn through the narrow ways. "You should've made an appointment in advance."
"It was sprung onto myself instantaneously as well, Meliorn."
The faerie man shrugged, walking ahead of Alec by many paces, as if the sight of the Shadowhunter boy disgusted him. The Seelie Court was a dangerous place, and Alec knew that very well. The Queen would use all her tricks to dislodge anyone who entered. The court was still as beautiful as it always was with the exotic flowers and vines along with the unique looking people. A pretty Fey girl sent Alec a flirtatious smile which he ignored. Approaching the Queen, he bows politely. "Your highness, I come seeking assistance."
The Queen, still as regal as ever, glanced over to Alec with a questioning look of interest scribbled across her features. She held back her fiery red hair in a series of tangling flower stems. "Alexander Lightwood. What could you possibly need?" Alec fumbled nervously with his fingers, he didn't want to have to pay a high price, but knew he had no other choice. "It's Magnus, there was an incident, he doesn't have anymore of his memories, I-I was curious on if you had any potions or anything to make him better, to restore what he lost."
The Queen looked quizzical, her eyes narrowing slightly as she regarded Alec's request. Alec didn't know what to expect, what if he was denied entirely, what if there wasn't anything to be done other than wait and hope? "What would you be willing to do in return?"
"Anything!" Alec answered so suddenly, and the Queen looked amused as she leaned farther back on her throne, eyes closing briefly. "How funny, do you love this Warlock?" Alec arched an eyebrow at her inquiry, it really wasn't any of her business what he felt for Magnus, but she was offering her assistance. For the moment his feelings on boundary lines and what is private and not was disclosed and non-existent. Blushing a light rose color he looks off to the side. "Yes, I love him." The Queen nodded, eyes watching him closely, he could feel her stare burning into him. "Despite his immortality? He'll live and move on shortly after your death."
That struck Alec painfully in the chest, his eyes closing as he analyzed the thought within his mind. It was true, soon Magnus would probably leave Alec due to the age difference, he wouldn't want to be near him any longer, he wouldn't want to watch him die, and then once Alec was gone; Magnus would move on. "I want him to. I love Magnus enough to accept that, just please help him."
He looked back to the Queen, eyes wide with a needing look, he needed Magnus in his life, and he felt as if he were losing him more and more with every passing day. "I can't." She answered simply, and Alec felt his heart sink and breath halt. He probably would've raised his voice by now had she not looked so sympathetic in that moment. He knew she had wanted dearly to help, but she had no resources that could. "I'm sorry." She finished, turning her head to look away from Alec as if grief and guilt was permanently lodging itself into her gaze. Alec had no words to say, and quickly he turned away and let himself out.
The New York air was chilly against his face, his heart hammering just as hard as the wind was blowing. Ragnor was standing over by a bench as Alec came over, soaking wet from the pond. Ragnor snapped, drying him quickly. "So?" Instead of saying any words, Alec buried his face against Ragnor's chest and held him tightly, desperate for consolation of some sort. Ragnor seemed to understand and gave his awkward equivalent of a hug, body stiffening at the contact. "It's okay Alexander, we'll get him back. I promise." Alec didn't know whether or not he should believe that, all he knew was that Ragnor was here, and the comfort was great. He didn't want to think about all he had lost, he just wanted to be reminded that good could still occur in the worst of moments.
~~~~
Ragnor paused outside of Magnus's door. It was his turn to try a restoration spell. He had kindly asked Alec to just remain away until Ragnor was done, extra persons there could cause unnecessary pressure that Ragnor felt it would be smarter to just keep away from. Alec had argued strongly but failed, Ragnor had left him away anyways.
Magnus was perched on his couch, watching the ceiling fan revolve around and around with intense wonderment. Ragnor felt his heart yearn to explain everything to Magnus, give him back all that he had lost, and hopefully he could through this. "Magnus." He called concretely, stepping hesitantly into the loft. Magnus reverted his attention from the fan to the new person in his apartment. "Hi Ragnor! What are you doing here?" He asked, sitting up fully. Ragnor smiled and offered out a book which Magnus accepted eagerly. "A spell book? For what?" Ragnor shifted on his feet, taking the spell book back. "I'm going to give you your memories back, Magnus. Is that okay?
Ragnor hadn't really known what he had been expecting, he knew that Magnus was eager to get back his memories, but he couldn't tell if Magnus actually wanted to take the initiative to regain them. "Sure, okay, sounds easy. A spell ought to work. Go ahead, I'm ready." Ragnor overlooked Magnus with a warm fondness before placing a hand gently on-top of the Males spiked up hair. "I'm sorry." Ragnor breathed, apologizing for the future pain he was about to cause Magnus. Ragnor wanted to protect Magnus from every and anything, but at this moment he just couldn't actually keep Magnus from this. Flipping open the spell book, he begins his chant.
Memories attacked Magnus at full speed, a scream tearing through his throat as the pain built through his bones. He collapsed to the floor, clutching his skull while screaming, but Ragnor carried on with the spell as if he weren't screaming. Magnus saw Alec blushing a deep crimson before hesitantly wrapping his arms around Magnus's neck, kissing back, he could see the love on Alec's face as he relaxed against Magnus, the happiness. Alec made the first move to pull away, glancing off nervously to the side, his blush never receding. "Okay, let's begin." That memory receded quickly, a voice cutting through Magnus's hazed mind quickly. "Shut your mouth Magnus Bane." That voice surfaced through Magnus's memories, the area of incident coming to view. But Magnus couldn't place it at the moment. "How dare you deny me! You will be mine. Even if I have to take all you care for!" Again it broke through Magnus's eardrums, infuriating Magnus as if he did know the owner of the voice. "Magnus NO!" Alec's voice stopped Magnus's screaming momentarily.
Ragnor carried on with the spell as more memories surfaced, Ragnor hated hearing Magnus scream in such pain, but he had no other choice. He had to bring back the Magnus that everyone knew, he wasn't made for this world anymore. He had become a hazard to himself and to everyone around him, Ragnor knew he wouldn't ever let go of Magnus, but he didn't know how much Magnus could hold onto. He was losing more and more of himself with each and every day, he was depressed because of this loss, it was something he couldn't comprehend. Alec had sworn that Magnus was getting better with each passing day, but Ragnor suspected that maybe Magnus was just naturally happier with Alec nearby. It caused Ragnor to accept Alec slightly more. "STOP!" Magnus cried out the word, his body trembling from the agony he was in. Ragnor carried on, reciting the Latin scripture. He couldn't stop now, Magnus would just have to bite back the pain, it was ending now, he was coming to the final memory pieces, The spell would conclude on one more burst of excruciating pain before it would all finally end. "I said stop!" Magnus swiped his hand up, magic bursting from it. The magic crashed against Ragnor dead on, slamming him back forcefully into a wall hard enough to crack the wall itself. There he slid to the ground, slumped over, unconscious. Magnus suddenly felt regretful, the pain subsiding. "R-Ragnor?!"
Scrambling up to his feet, he hurries over to his emerald friends side. "R-Ragnor please don't be dead!"
Ragnor coughed, stirring slightly, a groan passing through his parted lips. "I'm not dead Magnus, it's okay. I'm fine."
"God I'm so so SO SORRY." Magnus's hands shook as he gently touched Ragnor, overcome with a guilty sensation that reminded him of his father. "Hush Magnus." Ragnor said, pushing himself up. "I'm fine. See?" Magnus nodded warily, looking away. "I wanna be alone, c-can you go?"
Ragnor looked sympathetic, but understood fully. The spell had backfired, he hadn't gotten his memories back, instead he probably only got that terrible migraine. Ragnor dipped his head slightly before vanishing, leaving Magnus alone to his thoughts.
~~~~
Magnus just didn't know anymore, he was trying his hardest to keep an optimistic view of life, he struggled daily though. Nothing he wore felt like himself, nothing he did, not even the strange cat in his house reminded him of himself, at least the himself that Alec knew. Magnus couldn't deny that he felt strongly for Alec, but he couldn't decipher if it was a deep churning fear or something different he couldn't quite comprehend. Alec had been nothing but generously kind, always assisting Magnus with anything he needed. Magnus didn't know if he should feel relieved or overwhelmed. No matter what Magnus knew he was scared, but he wasn't in the eighteen-hundreds. He couldn't run back to the London Institute and beg assistance, he was on his own. He didn't know why, but it had been three days since the incident, and only bits and pieces had come back to Magnus.
Especially when Alec was close, like when Alec would unconsciously fix the shirt Magnus was wearing, or tuck his hair back. A few days before had been the closest Magnus recalled from getting his memory back. Magnus had been fumbling with buttoning the buttons on his shirt, he was still so wrapped up in his mind that he couldn't focus properly. Alec had chuckled before swiftly swatting Magnus's hands away. "Honestly Magnus, you don't even try to focus." He joked lightly, slowly pulling the buttons free that Magnus had failed at.
Magnus could feel his heart hammering wildly, breath freezing as Alec's gentle fingers occasionally brushed against Magnus's dark skin. As if Alec could feel it as well, he paused his fingers on Magnus's final shirt button, eyes staring at the already exposed skin. "Alexander." Magnus whispered huskily, without actually intending to. That was all the encouragement Alec had wanted, because suddenly he tilted his head up to meet Magnus's lips. Magnus felt a groan unbury itself deep in his throat, arms encircling Alec's frame. Alec made quick work with pulling free the final button, hands slipping along the skin tantalizingly slow. Magnus released Alec to allow the shorter boy to shove the shirt from his body, hands sliding up his back to dig his fingernails into his shoulder blades.
Magnus hadn't ever been submissive, but he couldn't find the strength in him to overpower Alec, he was weak to him. Alec slammed him back into a wall as Magnus began to slip, his legs buckling. Alec pulled back to kiss and bite Magnus's skin, not hesitating to mark Magnus's neck with hickeys. "A-Alec!" Magnus moaned his name, hands shaking as he held him. He couldn't think if he was afraid of the way Alec touched him, or overwhelmed. But Alec pulled back then, eyes wide as he staggered back. "O-Oh god, we can't do this!" Magnus didn't know what to say, he hadn't then and still didn't now. Alec had fled that day, leaving Magnus overly frustrated. Magnus didn't see him for days after, and when he did Alec wouldn't bring up the possibility of anything having been between them. He dodged and ignored any and all of Magnus's questions.
Like yesterday. He had been standing at the dresser drawer, empty picture frames there, Alec had promised that the picture frames had always been empty but Magnus could feel his lies. He could see the hurt look that flashed through his cerulean gaze as he uttered the lie, like it pained him to admit that. When Alec had again left for the billionth time, Magnus had a searing pain burn it's way through his retinas. It was the dresser at first, the picture frames all full of pictures of Alec and himself. Then a new image flashed behind his eyes, one equipped with audio.
"Don't apologize love, it's fine. I understand." Magnus could easily identify that voice, but his own voice spoke the name before his mind could. "Alec." His voice came out as a whisper, and suddenly the blurriness cleared. There on a patch of grass sat Magnus beside Alec, a deep look of longing through both of their eyes. Magnus knew this place, it was where he'd awoken after losing his memories. Magnus watched as his free hand roamed up to push aside the locks of hair in Alec's face. The touch so genuinely soft and meaningful. He could see Alec's eyes, sparkling in a bright way that made glittering diamonds envious of their beauty. "I need you in this life, promise me you'll stay." Magnus was shocked by the vulnerability in his voice, the tenderness of which he used only to address Alec. Gently, like all the other things Magnus did with Alec, Magnus placed delicate kisses upon Alec's eyelids. Then Alec leaned forward to kiss under Magnus' chin and along his jaw, something that people who were 'just friends' didn't do. "Okay. I promise I will." Then they kissed, and the vision blurred from existence.
Magnus could recall the painful thrumming of his heart, the way he couldn't suck in enough air, how his legs felt they would give out if Magnus released his grip on the dresser. He couldn't do it anymore. And ever since then, Magnus knew he had to let all this go and start anew. Waiting for something miraculous to happen was only hurting himself and Alec. It was nighttime now, Alec said he'd drop by again, but Magnus had pleaded with the heavens that he just wouldn't. That maybe he'd just stay distanced. But Magnus knew all too well that he would come, he would show up and Magnus wouldn't know what to do or say. Either Alec was lying to him, or he didn't know how to break it to Magnus that they had been... something other than just friends.
Alec came in, using the key he'd already owned, and smiled to Magnus. His smile vanished at the sight of Magnus looking pained and distraught. "Magnus? What's wrong?" Magnus turned away from Alec gathering up his thoughts before turning back. He didn't know why this felt so hard to do, he didn't even really know Alec anymore, but he felt like he was losing a giant piece of him, things he'll never regain if he let's go, by leaving Alec. The tricky thing was, Alec denied that they had any connections like that, and nobody else he hung around seemed to speak of them being an 'item'. It was too much for Magnus, he was being pushed too far now, he couldn't have Alec be a part of his life anymore. He didn't understand why Alec hung around if to just assist, if Alec had fallen out of whatever Magnus and Alec shared then why keep returning?
"This has to stop." Magnus began, eyes set and certain. Alec looked confused, that sweet look passing through his eyes, the look that made Magnus feel like he was breaking apart inside, but he fought against it and held his defensive walls up. "What has to stop?"
"This. Us. Whatever this is. Alec obviously there are things that you refuse to tell me, and I don't know if I really want it back right now anyways. I want to be able to carry on with my life, but all this coddling is getting me absolutely nowhere, I'm not gaining any memories, I'm not feeling any better, and having you around drops my mood. It hurts to see you, a-and I don't want to hurt anymore, I don't want to keep losing more of me because there are things you won't tell me. I know we were something Alexander, and I'm tired of you covering it up."
Alec looked horrified, devastated, and even a little broken, he looked like Magnus had just admitted to destroying everything he'd ever loved. "Magnus I-"
"No Alec, please don't. I don't want reasons, I just want to be done now. I want to try and start new. Whoever I was back then is gone now, I'm still me I'm just not who you knew as me. I-I would really like it if you just left and never came back. I-I can't remember you, and it hurts to try. Is it really so bad that I just ask to be left in peace? You lock me in this house like I'm some sort of prisoner, but I'm not and I'm not endangering anyone or even myself. I'm apparently around eight-hundred years old. I can very well handle myself. I won't get my previous memories back, and I don't want them anymore. I just want to be done." Magnus felt his voice crack, heart throbbing painfully in his chest. It was like the worst pain he'd ever experienced, and he couldn't even recall why which only enhanced how painful it was. Alec looked as if he were in just as much agony.
Alec, left speechless now, only nodded. Turning rigidly, he walks off, as if he didn't even know he was moving. The door closed and Magnus felt his heart shatter into a million tiny pieces. He couldn't remember how to breathe, speak, stand or anything. All his mind could register was the agony, the horrible pain and all that it held.
Finally everything came gushing back at Magnus; all the years he'd lost, all the people he'd forgotten, everything. All at once in a blinding searing pain of fury. He dropped to his knees, screaming in agony as both his hands flew up to clench his head tightly as if that would stop the pain. He tried to see past the blinding white light before his eyes, tried to focus on what was happening in the room, he could feel strong arms wrap around him, and could faintly hear a voice trying to yell above his screams. "MAGNUS! IT'S OKAY, I'M HERE." Magnus could recall that voice from a renewed memory. Alec. Alec had come back, and he was here, but his presence wouldn't stop the pain, and no matter what, Magnus couldn't stop screaming. Finally, the pain having been far too much, Magnus passed out. Body falling limp in Alec's shaking arms as a memory surfaced.
"Its okay Alec, I'm only summoning a lesser demon."
"O-Okay, so long as you're not hurt."
"You worry too much."
Magnus's voice sounded light and carefree, this memory, it was when he'd lost all memories. Something happened. Magnus pushed past the blurriness until he was standing in the field as nothing more than a spirit, watching as the events took place.
As usual, all was set up; the summoning circle, the candles, the protective barrier, even Robert and Maryse Lightwood held their seraph blades in place- ready for the unexpected. The only thing calm, was Magnus Bane himself. Alec stood beside him, fidgeting nervously with the hem of his shirt -as he always did- but Magnus couldn't tend to soothing his boyfriend at the moment, he had business to attend to. Isabelle had been sent to find where Clary and Jace had stumbled off too, Magnus didn't doubt it was more like who they stumbled into and that who would be each other. Magnus didn't judge them though, he could still be caught stealing kisses from Alec in public or pulling him off into alleyways just to press him against a wall. It was that burning flame of desire, nothing could ever put out that fire, and Magnus wouldn't try to put it out, he enjoyed the juvenile behavior in the start of a relationship.
Forcing himself to focus again, he places his hands before him, barely even trying as blue sparks floated from his fingertips. Closing his eyes, he begins his chant. "Iam tibi impero et praecipio, maligne spiritus! I summon you, by the power of bell, book, and candle. I summon you airy void, from the darkest depths. I summon you, Aeshma who soars through the clouded sky of lost souls, Aeshma who lurks in the shadows that lie under a child's bed, Aeshma who bathes in tears and plays with the bones of frightened children." Magnus drawled the words, his eyes watching the circle as it began to sizzle, smoke circling into the air. Of course he prided himself over a job well done, but this was basically asking him to sit and stay, something simple like that. "As destroyer of Maribas, I summon you. I summon you as the demon's child who can make your seas dry to desert. I summon you by my own power, and by the power of my blood, and you know who my father is, Aeshma. You will not, you dare not, disobey."
The smoke rose higher and higher, growing larger than what was considered 'natural' for even low leveled demons. Magnus forced more power to contain the circle, but something was forcing him back, something was controlling the circle, refusing to unleash the demon. "Dammit, I summon you-"
"Shut your mouth Magnus Bane."
Magnus knew that voice, momentarily he was frozen, but soon he regained sense. He turned to shove Alec farther back from the circle, but he was too late. The circle exploded in a giant pile of smoke and sharp shards of rock, the Lightwoods were knocked back, and Magnus swept off his feet. Finally a figure emerged from the smoke, laughing arrogantly as he slowly approached Magnus.
"Asmodeus."
Magnus spat out the name in disgust, his own green speckled catlike eyes staring back up at a matching pair. The Prince of Hell made no hesitations, swiping up his finger to lift Magnus from the ground. "I prefer." He spoke, his voice deep and solid. "If you'd call me father. Hold your breath, this is where I strike up a new deal."
Magnus opened his mouth to retort a retaliation, but he fell short as Asmodeus snapped his fingers to close off all of Magnus's airways. Magnus wheezed to suck in more air as he collapsed back to his knees, his father making no attempts to help him. "I know I don't visit often, let's see, it's been a century since our last meeting right?"
Magnus, still suffering without breath, coughed and glared forward, trying to maintain his cool.
"Well, I wanted to offer this to you in person. I missed my son you-"
"Magnus!" Alec swept himself off the ground, bow and arrow poised dangerously. But Asmodeus couldn't care less, one swipe of the hand knocked Alec back down again, this time he hoped for good. Magnus choked out to scream his name, but fell short. "A-Alec..." He breathed out with the remainder of his breath before crashing into the dirt. Suddenly air flooded back into his lungs, filling him with a new breath of life. Asmodeus continued on as if he'd never been interrupted. "I want you to rule with me. You're powerful, undeniably my most powerful child. I can't take your powers, ever since you locked them down. Give in to me Magnus Bane, I want to form an alliance. What do you say?"
By now the greater demon had crouched before his panting son, a warm yet fabricated smile pulling up his lips. Magnus glared darkly, his heart racing and mind whirling. He had to get to Alec. "Never!" Using his magic, he lifts his arm to shoot a blast of blue magic at the demon.
Asmodeus, momentarily shocked, was knocked back a few feet, a growl rising through his throat as an infuriated yell tore through. "You insolent little brat." He shouted, his whole arms glowing with red sparks from dark energy. "How dare you deny me! You will be mine. Even if I have to take all you care for!"
At this, he waved a hand towards Alec, holding out his palms to shoot all the dark matter at the stirring Shadowhunter. Magnus watched, horrified, and before he could stop himself he leapt in the way of the attack. Piercing pain shot through him as he crashed to the dirt, unmoving and breathing hard. "Magnus NO!"
Alec fought the pain and quickly dragged Magnus into his arms as he fought to hold back a sob. "This could work." Asmodeus breathed, stepping back. Suddenly he was flanked by both Robert and Maryse, Jace and Isabelle joining in quickly to dispose of the demon. But even if they killed it in its human form, they'd never beat his ethereal form.
Meanwhile, Magnus stirred slightly, his eyes glazed over with confusion as he stared up into the azure stare of Alec. "Magnus!" Alec called cheerfully, reaching out to stroke Magnus's cheek, but at the slightest touch Magnus flinched away, up and out of Alec's lap. "W-Who are you?"
Then the memory receded, and Magnus was left lying in Alec's arms again, this time awake and conscious, full of remembrance. "A-Alec?" Magnus choked out hoarsely, feeling the scratchiness of his own throat. Had he screamed in his sleep? He wondered but refused to ask as he moved out of Alec's arms to face him fully. "I-I'm sorry for touching you, o-or returning at all. I-I just-"
Magnus ignored Alec's stutters, pulling him close to press a meaningful passionate, love-filled kiss. A kiss he'd regretted not giving him before, one that spoke a million words, a kiss that left Magnus all choked up. Magnus pulled back, tears falling down his face, half from the pain he was in and half from the unbearable internal pain he'd felt for not remembering Alec. "I'm sorry. I'm so damn sorry." He couldn't stop crying now, his chest tightening from the feeling as he was wrapped back up into Alec's tight embrace. "Y-You remember?" Magnus could only nod, his sobs muffled out by Alec's shirt. He clung to Alec with all he had, his heart racing. "God, it's my father. H-He, he could've hurt you."
"But he settled with you, Magnus. You're the one I'm worried over. What hurts?" He asked finally, prying Magnus from against him to overlook him. Magnus chuckled at this, kissing him gently, feeling his pains get blown away. "Nothing external dear, I-I just need..." He paused. He needed what? To rest?! After Asmodeus did this?! No. Magnus needed to handle this. Now and only now. Magnus pushed back from Alec, staggering to his feet despite the excruciating pain. "To find Catarina." He finished his fragmented statement from earlier, stumbling towards the door. Alec leapt up to protest but Magnus waved him back with the flick of his wrist. "Stay here my love." Magnus gazed longingly to Alec, longing to just sink into Alec's arms and sleep eternally, to just love Alec and have that be absolutely it, but he couldn't, not yet. He hated using his powers against Alec, it was a violation and unfair since Alec had nothing to successfully block Magnus's power, but for now it was a necessity. Coating his voice in layers of magic, he smiles weakly. "Sleep."
Once the word finished, Alec tumbled onto the couch, falling unconscious. The only thing to wake him now would be Magnus releasing him through magic, or if Magnus dies the spell would immediately lift. With one last yearning glance to Alec, Magnus set off.
~~~~
It wasn't ever hard to find someone expecting you to come, especially when they planted themselves at the crime scene. Asmodeus stood, eyes glimmering in the dark as he watched Magnus closely, an evil glint in his eyes, one that promised malicious intent. "Father."
"Son."
Neither moved, both eyeing the other as if that would strike the other down. "You came." Asmodeus offered, daring to take a step closer. Magnus took the offering and stepped closer as well. "You left me no choice. I accept."
Magnus' words took Asmodeus by surprise, his eyes widening as Magnus carried on. "I want to work with you. You offered in the living room, I can't recall my past, my memories have vanished. But I recall you. I recall your offer, you're my dad, right? Therefore you love me, you love me and that's all that matters. So, I accept."
Asmodeus stepped up fully, breath erratic and short. He didn't even have to threaten him into joining, he felt giddy. Now he could consume him and receive ultimate power. Magnus reached up to place an encouraging hand on his fathers shoulder, as if urging him to take his soul.
Suddenly, as fast and blinding as a shot of lightning, Magnus exploded of a brilliant azure light. A light that almost matched the blue of Alec's eyes, something spectacular and extraordinary. If they were anywhere near society there would be onlookers swarming. But there weren't, and the light that was 'oh-so pretty' was also oh-so deadly. Asmodeus crashed back, his body skidding in the dirt only to bounce back up and crash again. He was on his feet in a matter of seconds, eyes blazing furiously to his son, to Magnus. "You'll regret that."
Magnus looked bored as he gazed upon the greater demon. "You need to fall." Asmodeus slammed into the dirt again. "Don't get up." He was surprised at the amount of strength his son had procured, amazed by how talented he had grown. But infuriated by his besting him so swiftly. "Well?! I'm down. Smite me." Magnus chuckled, crouching down to be at eye-level with him. "Why is everything always about death? Can't we just call it a truce?"
"Truce... My stupid sparkle addicted son. There's no way." Suddenly a large explosion of red broke through, Magnus deflecting it just barely with his own counter spell. Swiftly he flipped back, only using one hand to push off the ground as he landed in a crouch a ways back, his jacket flourishing beautifully around him- he always wore things that flourished. "So this is it? Father and son showdown? How ironic." Magnus scoffed lightly, standing to his true stature as his once subtle blue glow blazed furiously, shooting up his arms and trailing along his shoulders, through his hair and back down to his toes; he hadn't been overcome with power like this in years, but now wasn't the time to be reminiscent, now was the time to kick some ass. Asmodeus laughed at the pitiful show of Magnus' power. "Is that it? You look like you just pissed yourself."
Suddenly Asmodeus erupted in flames, consumed by the red dark energies, it reached above and beyond his body, his arms spreading as the power coursed through him- it was a display only a greater demon could procure. What's worse was the strength Asmodeus held was stronger, and would always be stronger than Magnus's. Asmodeus was Prince of Hell, Lucifer's right hand. When Satan decided to fall, Asmodeus fell right beside him, pledging his full allegiance. That's why Asmodeus was gifted so much power. Now Magnus felt wary on his decision to attack, but Asmodeus wouldn't leave- no, he'd stay until he killed Magnus, or worse, killed Alec instead. "I will never let you hurt those I care for again!"
Magnus erupted with power, shooting all his energy into an attack. Blue spirals beautifully carved their way through the air, something that could lure a person into being distracted at one moment only to charge them out of it with a painful slap. But Asmodeus was never one to fall for such childish charm, he raised a hand to deflect the attack, but it was stronger than expected. The blow broke through, slicing through his cheek, drawing the putrid ichor from his body. The stench was overwhelming, but Magnus was used to it by now. Asmodeus touched his cheek blindly, chuckling at the blood. "Okay Magnus. Suit yourself."
Before Magnus could process anything, power surged around him. Dark, powerful, demanding red flames locking at his body. Having no other choice, he yanks off the jacket before using his own magic to dowse the flames remaining. Being left in only his customary buckle up combat boots, a violet tank-top, and black jeans, Magnus felt it was about time to get closer for the battle. Lunging forward, he slams his fist into the side of the greater demons face, his rings cutting more of the flesh than intended. Asmodeus yelled in pain before counterattacking with a punch of his own. Swiftly Magnus caught the fist from in air, maybe dating a Shadowhunter did teach him a few things, using his magic he explodes the fist into breaking; Asmodeus crashing down to his knees from the pain. Taking this to his advantage, Magnus brings his knee up harshly to slam into Asmodeus's jaw; unfortunately Asmodeus expected this and bit down harshly into it, tearing the fabric. Magnus stumbled back, the pain not fully reaching his mind yet. Asmodeus was up by then, grasping Magnus by the throat, exploding crippling pain into his body until his screams silenced and body went slack. With only a chuckle, he chucks him aside as easily as tossing aside a wadded up piece of paper, only instead Magnus crashed down to the ground loudly, feeling deflated and out of breath as he hacked up his own scarlet blood.
"Shame shame Magnus Bane, you never learned how to be strong. You've always been oh so weak. It's pathetic. Here you come, with your big talk and strong start only to fail horribly. It's embarrassing."
"Shut up demon." A new voice joined the party, and Magnus glanced up weakly just in time to see Raphael lunge into battle. The vampire was swift and moved at speeds nothing else could ever mimic. Not only did he move quickly and precisely, but he hit strongly, his muscles flexing under his usual white button down shirt. His cross glinted from its perch from around his throat as he moved and struck, fast and strong, something few could possess. Asmodeus looked frustrated as the vampire bested him, using one more fatal knock out punch to knock the demon back a good seven yards. Raphael ran, fast like all vampires, to reach Magnus's side. "Come on Bane." He urged, rolling Magnus onto his back. "Live dammit, what are you doing here? Are you stupid?!" Magnus chuckled, his breathing labored as he tried to support speaking. "You're favorite question, right?"
Raphael rolled his eyes, a genuine smile tugging up his lips as his curly ebony hair fell before his just as black gaze. "Don't be reminiscent Bane, you will live through this. Come on-" Suddenly the young vampire was lifted away from Magnus, screaming as Asmodeus dug his fingernails into his throat, filling Raphael with cry-worthy pain; but Raphael wasn't ever one to cry, so instead, he knocked out entirely. Asmodeus threw him aside, approaching him once more just to be certain he was done for. Raphael stirred slightly, but there was too much pain, he couldn't so much as lift a finger. But Asmodeus wasn't satisfied that he could even open his eyes. Kneeling beside the quivering vampire, still shaken from the pain that stayed sharp in his body, Asmodeus reaches out to gently tuck aside his ebony hair. "Raphael Santiago. A pity that you must meet your demise."
"I-I will never die. Dios."
Asmodeus laughed, grasping a handful of Raphael's hair to yank his head back. "His name should choke you, filthy vampire. You wear his cross like you have any right." Ripping the cross from around his neck, he jams the whole charm into his neck. Raphael stared, astounded at first, eyes wide as blood began to slip past his lips. Then he smiled a crimson smile, smoke rising from where the charm entered, burning his flesh. "Y-You cannot... W-Win... Magnus..." His eyes glazed over with pain, a single scarlet tear falling as proof to his agony. "Is st-strong." Finally not being able to bear anymore, he falls unconscious, body going slack as his eyes roll to the back of his head. Asmodeus dropped him quickly, standing to dust off his pants. He'd never favored vampires in the Downworlder community, always preferred Werewolves if any, they were strong and dispensable and got the job done in the daytime. Shaking his head he laughs, what a pitiful attempt at back-up.
Now he had the matter of his own kin. He'd kill Magnus first, consume his power, then kill off every and anything Magnus ever loved or cared for. Well, he'd come back to finish off the vampire first. Magnus still lie in the dirt; hazed, and fading in and out of unconsciousness. Asmodeus slowly picked his way over to Magnus, placing a booted foot over his chest. "Look at you. Too weak to even speak."
"F-Fuck you."
"Such a foul mouth, now I'll have to punish you." Asmodeus clicked his tongue, pressing down on Magnus's chest until he heard a satisfying crack. Magnus screamed in agony, eyes rolling to the back of his head as he cried out, this filled Asmodeus with a deep sadistic gratification. "Did you think you'd win? Did you have some heroic scenario planned out? Because this is pathetic. I've already killed the vampire. Maybe I'll go pay Alexander a visit after this."
Magnus's eyes snapped open and he glared up to Asmodeus, a calm sort of murderous intent set on his catlike gaze. "No you will not." Mustering up all his final magic, every last bit he had, he exploded. This time, the light burned Magnus's eyes as well. He's never used so much magic all at once, it was painful, but in a sense rejuvenating. It was like Magnus was growing stronger from the level the attack was at. Suddenly, the weight was lifted off him, his lungs were filled with breath, and any wounds he might've had instantly healed. He felt brand new. In fact, he was all ready to finish this battle, though it had already ended. Asmodeus laid a searing lump on the ground not too far away, coughing and blinking into death slowly.
Magnus approached him, a dim azure hue glowing around his body. "As I said, Asmodeus. My friends and myself, are off-limits." Asmodeus gave a deep scratchy chuckle, which ended in a low guttural growl. "Don't be so certain. I'll get you Magnus. Just as I did all the others." And with that, he vanished.
Magnus wasted no time, rushing to Raphael's side hastily. Flipping him onto his back, he dislodges the cross from Raphael's trachea, using a simple healing spell to fix him instead of blood. Raphael's eyes flew open, wide and wary, conscious of everything yet still so phased by the world. "Magnus?" He croaked. "Yeah. It's over. Come on, get up you dumb vampire."
Raphael pushed himself up, refusing to be assisted even during his weakened moments. "I must feed, before sunrise." Magnus knew the sun would rise in and hour or so and suddenly pitied the poor male. Raphael had risked his life to help Magnus, Magnus owed him the same. "Here." He grumbled, offering his arm to the tan skinned man. "Drink mine. It'll be faster." Raphael looked momentarily baffled before gratefully smiling and sinking his teeth into his arm. The initial reaction was painful, until something within the bite changed allowing the transfer to be much more peaceful and slightly pleasurable. Magnus closed his eyes, glad to not have to deal with pain anymore. Raphael didn't drink much, he didn't need it, with as powerful as he was he could last off of a morsel for weeks. Turning to Magnus, he dips his head respectfully. "Be safe Bane." Was all he uttered before turning to leave. Magnus stepped after him hesitantly. "Raphael wait. Thank you."
Raphael grinned, his usual lopsided smirk full of arrogance, but this time there was genuine sincerity as well. "Of course. Return to Alexander, rest. Call me if you need anything, just be careful." Turning around, he walks off.
"You too Santiago." Magnus turned and left then, he still had final matters to attend to.
~~~~
Alec woke up on Magnus's couch, confused momentarily until he recalled what occurred. Magnus used his magic against Alec! Pushing up into a sitting position, he rakes his fingers through his hair. Magnus had gone after Asmodeus, Alec knew he did, and for all he knew now Magnus could be dead. He needed to get help, find his weapons, or something before he lost him forever. The door to the apartment swung open. Alec turned, expecting to find Asmodeus there. Instead he made eye contact with Magnus, his heart welling up quickly. Rushing across the room he throws his arms around the Warlock, kissing him desperately. Magnus, overwhelmed and shocked, stands briefly before melting into the kiss. Alec pulled back, eyes searching Magnus's. "I'm sorry Alec, I just-"
"Shut up Magnus. Just promise me it's over." His hands reached up, pressing his against Magnus's cheeks.
Magnus smiled, dipping his head to kiss Alec once more. "It's over now. I promise."
