Their eyes fell upon a particularly grand specimen, perched high on a hill. The two marveled at the height and symmetry of the evergreen. Its branches reached proudly towards the sky, adorned with glistening snowflakes, making it seem like a beacon of nature's beauty. The tree stood tall, overlooking the snow-kissed valley below, a picture-perfect representation of the holiday spirit.
The longer Alec looked, he began to have second thoughts. "How are we going to bring this home? How is this going to fit in the apartment?"
"That can be dealt with later, first, I need to find a way to cut it down." Magnus said, narrowing his eyes. He studied the tree, one hand under his chin and walked around assessing every angle. Then the warlock snapped his fingers and an ax appeared in his hand. "Ready?" Magnus asked, raising his eyebrows enthusiastically and held out the ax for Alec.
"Me?" He asked in surprise.
"Yeah, show me that Niphalim strength."
"Alright," Alec sighed, taking the handle from Magnus. He walked over to the base of the tree and with a deep breath, he positioned himself, feet firmly planted, and swung the ax with practiced precision. The sharp blade cleaved through the air, descending upon the tree's trunk with a resounding thud.
Each swing of the ax was a rhythmic dance, a testament to his strength and skill. His muscles tensed and flexed with every strike, displaying the years of training and discipline that a Shadowhunter possessed. The forest echoed with the sound of wood splintering and the scent of fresh pine, filling the air with the essence of the holiday season.
As the tree began to lean and surrender to the relentless blows, Alec's focus remained steadfast. Beads of sweat formed on his brow, but he pressed on, the determination to make Magnus happy fueling his efforts. Alec was about to swing the final blow when Magnus held up his hand.
"Allow me," And the warlock shot out blue sparks, severing the last remnants that held the tree up. Its mighty form swayed and then crashed to the forest floor.
"Nice work," Alec nodded, amazed.
Magnus beam. "Team effort!" he cheered. The Shadowhunter raised an eyebrow.
"I did most of the work." He stated.
"And I finished it off, therefore, team work!"
"I don't think you understand how team work goes," said Alec. Before Magnus had time to reply, there came a loud snapping sound and Alec turned to find the tree rolling down the hill. "Magnus!" The Shadowhunter cried as he dashed after the tree. it began a tumultuous journey down the hill, leaves rustling and branches crackling in a cacophony of sound. Its descent was a wild, uncontrolled roll, picking up speed and momentum as it hurtled down the steep slope of the mountain. The snow-covered ground seemed to amplify its trajectory, leaving a trail of powdered white in its wake. But before the warlock could magic anything, the tree rolled off the cliff and into the valley below. "Nice work..." Alec said again but more bitterly looking over the edge.
"Hey, it's not... entirely my fault! You're the one who had to pick the tree on the hill."
"Oh so now it's my fault?" Before Magnus could reply, there came an ear piercing screech from down below.
"What was that?" Alec asked cautiously. Magnus raised a hand motioning him to be quiet as he strained to see any sign of a creature down in the valley. The ground beneath its resting place trembled, the trees around it rustled, and the spirit emerged in a flurry of feathers, its eyes ablaze with fiery crimson.
The winged-human hybrid, towering and majestic, spread its massive wings, feathers dark as the azure sky, and unfurled its talon-like hands and feet. Adorned in only dark brown trousers and wrist armor, its broad muscular chest gave it an imposing presence. A Katana was strapped to its side, a symbol of its strength and ancient wisdom.
"Damn it" Magnus hissed and pulled on Alec's arm. "Run, run now!" He cried. Alec bolted, Magnus close behind.