Magnus leapt through the portal with Alec in his arms. Blood had now dripped onto his sequinned shoes, and the light they refracted usually was dulled, creating a kaleidoscope of disgusting horror. Alec was making noises, very quietly, mewling like a kitten. Magnus couldn't tell if the noise was triggered by pain or if it was an expression of relief at being found; Magnus almost hoped it was the first and that Alec was so far gone into unconsciousness he wouldn't ever remember anything that happens.
THe Penhallows was very different to the institute - light and airy as opposed to dark and gloomy, and it looked more like home. He would have much rather taken Alec to his, but an atmosphere as clean as this was perhaps better than their more ostentatiously decorated apartment. The house seemed deserted, until Jace came catapulting through the portal.
"Where's Jem and Tessa", asked Magnus, trying to think of some sort of plan of how to proceed. Jem, having been a Silent Brother, would be the best person to ask to find a solution; he had cared for generations of sick shadow hunters, he would know how to help Alec.
"He's gone to the Silent City to ask for help" Jace said, whilst moving towards Magnus to take a closer look at Alec. He grimaced as he saw the blood congealed on this face, his broken body, his twisted form. "Let me take him", Jace implored, but Magnus shook his head.
The look of pity on Jace's face made Magnus' throat close up. Although relief consumed him that Alec was still alive, seeing the horror of the situation etched on Jace's face, who was usually so strong, resonated with him and brought him close to tears. He did not dare speak, not wanting to cry in front of the outspoken blonde, nor wanting to detract from the situation at hand, which required helping Alec in whatever way he could.
Thankfully, Isabelle appeared around the corner, her dark shimmering hair standing out against the paleness of the house. "This way", she called, "Quickly, we need to lie him down and help him."
