This is for fun, but if anyone wants to get deep into the details of this au, feel free to come scream at me in Tumblr starysky205.
2. Careful request
Magnus was investigating a series of spikes in unidentified energy that had been happening with increasing frequency when his favorite group of Shadowhunters came in through the door; he says come in because actually two of the people in the group had manners, and then he's a little distracted by the stranger in his home.
The boy, as he looks on the younger side, seems curious about Magnus' many possessions, but keeps himself well away from everything, and trying to be careful not to let his interest show; he looks worn down, and barely alive, but Magnus can sense an old sort of power to him.
There's also something familiar about him, even though he's sure they've never met before, but Magnus can't point out what it is. But the most important thing is that the boy doesn't feel human, and by the tension in his shoulders, and the carefulness of his movements, he can sense the same about Magnus.
"Now, mind my manners, this never happened before, but what are you?"
The boy gives him a clearly practiced smile, the kind formed when someone is smart enough not to show they're afraid; but Magnus can't really tell what the boy fears.
"How much do you know about Greek mythology?"
Magnus smiles back.
"Let me guess, very real"
The boy makes a face.
"Extremely"
There isn't a trace of mislead, the boy's telling the truth, fully; Magnus looks around the room and makes a decision.
"I'm Magnus Bane, high warlock of Brooklyn"
The boy arches an eyebrow but seems to take his words as fact, and it's obvious that he's encountered weirder things, which sparks Magnus' curiosity.
"Leo Valdez, son of Hephaestus"
Magnus gives a nod and looks at the Shadowhunters.
"I believe Mr. Valdez and I should discuss this privately, consider it my payment"
Jace and Clary seem to go for an argument, as per usual, but Magnus doesn't think Leo will speak freely with all of them still present.
"I'll make sure to notify you should his presence here be of concern to you"
He says it mostly to Alec, which makes him flush momentarily before he and his sister usher the other two out of Magnus' apartment. Leo's hand hovers over a seemingly empty tool belt, though Magnus is sure there's some trick to it; he goes for a smile as he makes a motion towards his couches.
"Take a seat"
Leo seems to consider this but eventually takes the couch directly in front of Magnus' hand, overly careful.
"So, a demigod, you wouldn't mind giving me a proof of sorts"
Leo makes an entire expression before he sighs and without any kind of flourish or thought, his thumb becomes aflame. There's something practiced about the way the boy moves his hands, passing the flame from finger to finger, brow knitted in concentration; like he's lost control over it before, and refuses to let it happen again.
"I can also build or fix any machine or weapon you put in front of me"
He stifles the flame on his pinkie, and glances at Magnus through the corner of his eye, still just as ready to volt as when he first entered the room.
"I need specific information"
Magnus arches an eyebrow at him.
"Someone's being careful"
Leo scrunches his nose.
"No offence, I've learned the hard way not to trust immortals"
Recalling the wide arrange of information he has on Greek myths, Magnus supposes those words are more than fair, a smart choice for someone who has to deal with the whims of gods.
"None taken, now then, ask your questions, I promise to answer to the best of my abilities"
Leo shifts in his seat, eyes sharp.
"I'm looking for a satyr, or any sign of one"