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Chapter Text

In the Shadow World, there are Vampires, Warlocks, Seelies, Werewolves, Shadowhunters, and Mundanes. Simon Lewis and Clary Fairchild have been best friends since they were in kindergarten, when Clary saved Simon from an allergic reaction. Simon Lewis has lived with his mother since his father died, which was around the time he was born. She told him that his father died in a fire with his sister. Clary and Simon are going to a club for Simon's 18th birthday after Clary and her band performed at a party. Simon headed home to his mother's shop because they lived right above the shop.

Simon: Morning, Dot

Dot: Morning, Simon, Congrats on getting into business school

Simon: Who told you

Dot: Clary posted it

Simon: Oh God

Dot: Also, Happy Birthday, Bud

Simon: Thanks, Dot

Simon opens the gift, and there is a shirt.

Simon: Thanks, Dot. I love it

Dot: Don't let your mom know who gave it to you, she would freak

Simon: Yeah, see ya, Dot

Dot: Bye, Simon

Simon heads upstairs and sees his mother. His mother gave him this object that he thought was a paperweight when it was a stele. Clary comes over and picks Simon up, and then heads over to the club when someone bumps into Simon, who only he can see.

Simon: Hey, can you watch where you are going

Raphael: You can see me

Simon: Isn't that the point

Meliorn: Raphael, let's go

Clary: Simon, who were you talking to

Simon: I don't know, let's go in

Clary: Okay

Clary and Simon walk inside, and Clary goes and gets her and Simon's drinks. By the time Clary got back, Simon had fled the club because he had seen people die and ran back home. By the time he got home, his mother and Dot were talking about something. When he found out about what was going on, he was pushed through a portal. After he got pushed through a portal, he ended up at the police station and ran away because Luke said he didn't care about him or his mother. As he ran away, he ran into a demon who looked like Dot. After a few minutes of being scared, the demon was killed by someone before he passed out from the venom. About 3 hours later, he wakes up and hits someone in the head.

Raphael: Ow

Simon: Sorry, where am I, and what happened to my clothes

Raphael: You are at the Institute, and we had to burn your clothes because of the venom on them

Simon: What is this thing on my neck

Raphael: It is a rune

Simon: Okay, look, that's for saving my life, but you do not just get to tattoo my neck

Raphael: It was either put that on you or you die

Simon: I am so confused

Meliorn: I can explain better

Simon: Okay

Meliorn: You aren't a mundane

Simon: If I am not mundane, what am I

Meliorn: You're a Shadowhunter

Magnus: Raphael, what the angel is going on here, and why is there a mundane here

Raphael: Not a good time, Magnus

Magnus: Raphael, did you rune him

Raphael: Yes, to save his life

Magnus: Great, wait for him to become a forsaken

Meliorn: You're exaggerating, Magnus

Magnus: Meliorn, you aren't worried about this. The Clave will find out about this and end up killing you, him, Raphael, and then me because we knew all about him. Technically, I am supposed to tell the Clave about this.

Raphael: Take a chill pill, Magnus

Magnus: Fine, Meliorn, your girlfriend, Isabelle, called. She wants to see you at her home.

Meliorn: Oh, great. Bye, Magnus, don't kill Raphael

Magnus: No promises

Meliorn, Raphael, and Magnus get into a fight, and they fight about Simon. Later, Simon, Raphael, and Magnus head to the cemetery to get weapons.

Magnus: Don't touch anything

Raphael: Come on, Magnus, let's do this

Magnus: Fine

Magnus and Raphael open the coffin.

Raphael: Do you see what you need

Magnus: No, I'll have to string up a bow and rune some arrows back at the Institute

Raphael: Don't get caught

Magnus: Yo Parabatai, I will take the back door

Raphael: Fine

Magnus leaves the cemetery and heads back to the Institute, and gets his Bow and Arrows. Magnus, Raphael, Simon, Meliorn, and Hodge are trying to figure out who they are going to talk to when it comes up.

Raphael: Hey, Magnus

Magnus: Yeah

Raphael: Don't you hook up with a downworlder who could help us out

Magnus: I mean, maybe, but I haven't gotten a chance to see him in a while

Simon: Who is that

Magnus: Hey, Hodge, pull your Lightwood under Warlocks

Hodge: Sure, Ah, Alexander Lightwood over 400 hundred years old, That's him

Magnus: Yup

Raphael: So, how are we going to get him to agree to meet up with us

Everyone looks at Magnus.

Magnus: What, all I know is he is going to be at the Pandemonium at 10 tonight

Raphael: So we meet him there

Magnus: Yes, but what about Valentine

Meliorn: We're trained Shadowhunters, and he's wanted dead, so we kill him

Magnus: Fine, let's go

Magnus, Raphael, Simon, and Meliorn head to the Pandemonium to meet up with Alec to find out more about Simon, not knowing anything. Everyone starts to look around, and then they see Alec.

Raphael: Alec

Alec: Raphael, what do you want? Wait a minute, Simon Lewis, you have grown into a very handsome young man.

Simon: So you know me

Alec: Of course, but you were very young when you came to me. By the way, how is your mom doing

Simon: Good, I guess

Raphael: So, do you know why he can't remember the Shadow world

Alec: I do, Simon's mother had me take his memories

Raphael: Can you give them back

Alec: Yes, only if his mother allows that to happen, or he summons the demon my sister gave them too

Raphael: Great, we will go talk to her

Magnus: Hey, Hodge wants you and Meliorn back at the Institute, and take Simon with you

Raphael: Okay

Magnus: Hey, you

Alec: Hey

Alec leans down and kisses Magnus on the lips.

Raphael: I am out of here

Alec: So, why don't we head back to my place

Magnus: I'd like that

Alec and Magnus head back to Alec's Apartment to just do a little bit of fooling around.

*Two Years Later*

Magnus and Alec moved to Alicante because Magnus became Inquisitor and Alec is the High Warlock of Alicante and are celebrating their first wedding anniversary, Jace the Werewolf and Clary the Daylighter are Engaged, Isabelle the Seelie and Meliorn are dating, Raphael is single and the head of the New York Institute and Simon is the owner of a comic book store because he lost all of his memories of the shadow world but they start to slowly flood back when he sees Raphael outside his store. 

Chapter Text

Magnus and Alec have been together for about a year and a half and can never get enough of each other, so much so that they have had sex in both Magnus's office and Alec's office. Alec and Magnus are having sex in the bedroom when Alec has to leave.

Alec: I have to go, okay

Magnus: Fine, see ya tonight

Alec: See ya

Magnus gets dressed and notices that his warlock mark keeps glamorizing and unglamorizing, so he calls Cat because she knows all about things like that.

Magnus: Hey, Cat, I have a question for you

Cat: Sure, Magnus, what's up

Magnus: So, um, my warlock mark keeps glamorizing and unglamorizing out of nowhere, do you know what that means

Cat: Yeah, it's most commonly seen in Warlocks who are pregnant

Magnus: I'm sorry, did you just say pregnant

Cat: Yeah

Magnus: How is that possible? I am a guy

Cat: But you're also Asmodeus's son, so you took that from him as well as your mark

Magnus: Damn it, okay, I will have to tell Alec

Cat: Good Luck

Magnus: Thanks, Bye

Cat: Bye

Magnus ends the call and has to figure out how to tell Alec the news. 

Chapter Text

Magnus is Pregnant with Alec's baby, and he is trying to figure out how to tell Alec. Magnus is out on the balcony to think when Alec comes home, so Alec walks over and places a kiss on Magnus' cheek.

Alec: Hey

Magnus: Hey

Alec: What's up with you

Magnus: What do you mean

Alec: Your Warlock Mark, it keeps Glamorizing and Unglamorizing. Is something wrong

Magnus: Kinda, but I don't really know

Alec: What is it

Magnus: I don't know. I talked to Cat about this, and what she told me I thought she was pulling at my leg here, but then I realized that I am Asmodeus's son, so it made sense

Alec: What made sense

Magnus: Alec, I'm Pregnant

Alec: What

Magnus: You're the Father

Alec looks in shock.

Magnus: You okay

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: You're okay with this

Alec: Magnus, of course, I'm okay with this. I love you, and no matter what happens, I will always love you

Magnus: I love you too, so you're ready to be a dad

Alec: Of course, and the baby will give me a break from Jace constantly pestering me

Magnus: So, we're doing this

Alec: We're doing this

Alec pulls Magnus into a hug and gives him a kiss on the head. The two later head into the bedroom to get some sleep. 

Chapter Text

It has been 6 months, and Magnus and Alec are waiting for Cat so they can find out their baby's gender and make sure that the baby is healthy. Cat comes out to take them back.

Cat: Ready to find out your baby's gender

Magnus: Yeah

Cat: Alright, let's see, well, the baby is gonna be a baby boy

Alec: Oh, My Angel

Magnus: Couldn't agree more

Alec: I love you

Magnus: I love you too

Cat: Anything else today

Magnus: No

Cat: Okay, see you next month

Alec & Magnus: See ya, Cat

Magnus and Alec headed back to their apartment. Alec had moved in with Magnus so they could be together with the child and raise the child together. When they get home, they head into the bedroom to get some sleep because their appointment with Cat was late at night. 

Chapter Text

Magnus is now 9 months pregnant, and Alec hasn't left Magnus' side since he got pregnant. Over the past few months, things have happened, like Raphael Santiag,o one of Magnus's friends, died, Alec's youngest brother died, Alec's father died, and a lot of marriages and divorces happened. It is around 9 PM when Magnus's water breaks.

Magnus: Hey, Alec

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: We should get going

Alec: Why, did your water break

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Alright, let's go

Magnus and Alec head to the hospital to have the baby. Magnus and Alec head into the hospital room while Alec's family is sitting in the waiting room.

*A Few Hours of Labor Later*

Cat: One more push

Magnus pushes.

Cat: Alright, he's here, just let me clean him up

Cat cleans the baby up, wraps him in a blanket, and hands the baby to Magnus.

Alec: He's here

Magnus: Yeah, we have our family

Alec: Yeah *Alec kisses Magnus' head* Yeah we do

Magnus: So what are we gonna name him

Alec: Why not after Raphael? We just spell it with an f instead of a ph and then use his last name as our baby's middle name

Magnus: I like that, but you hated Raphael

Alec: Not completely, but I knew how much he meant to you and how he wouldn't kill you because he cared for you, which just made me like him a little more

Magnus: I love that, just like I love you

Alec: I love you too. Hey, look, I wanted to ask you something for a while, but I didn't want to ask you just because of you being pregnant with Rafael, but Magnus, will you Marry Me

Magnus: Oh, Alec, of course, I'll marry you

Alec kisses Magnus and slips his family ring on Magnus's finger.

Alec: I'll go and get everyone

Magnus: Okay

Alec heads into the waiting room to get his family.

Izzy: So, where is my nephew

Alec: He's back with Magnus

Jace: Wait, before we go, what is he, your boyfriend or your Fiancé

Alec: As of a minute ago, he is my Fiancé

Maryse: Oh, Alec, that's great

Alec: Well, all of you come back and meet your nephew and mom, your grandson

Alec takes his family back to meet Rafael. Magnus and Alec take Rafael home a few days later and get married when Rafael is 5 months old. Magnus and Alec have another baby when Rafael is 2 years old and name him after Alec's little brother. When Rafael is 7 and Max is 4 years old, Magnus and Alec have a baby girl whom they named Alexa Lynn. Magnus and Alec's family is sweet and full of love. 

Chapter Text

Alexander Lightwood is the prince of a country known as Idris. Alec is 18 and is about to become king, and his mother wants him to settle down and get married. What his mother doesn't know is that he is dating a person who works for the Royal Family. Magnus Bane is the Royal Fashion Designer for Prince Alexander Lightwood. Magnus is also 18 and has been working for the family since he was 13, when his parents died. Magnus and Alec have been dating since they were 15 and have kept it a secret since the only people who knew about the relationship are Isabelle, who is Alec's sister, and Clary, who is the princess and queen's Seamstress. Magnus is working on Alec's suit for his coronation, so when he tells Clary he is getting Alec's measurements, he is actually going to kiss him. Magnus heads up to Alec's room to see Alec on his way to Alec's room, and he sees Alec's mother.

*Knock Knock*

Alec: Come in

Magnus: Hey, your highness

Alec: Let me guess, you say my mother in the hallway

Magnus: Ya

Alec: Well, what's up

Magnus: I need to uh get your measurements for your suit

Alec: You just told Clary that so you could come up and kiss me, huh

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Well, come on in

Magnus walks into Alec's room and walks over and kisses Alec.

Magnus: Happy 3 Year Anniversary, Alexander

Alec: Happy 3 Year Anniversary, Mags

Magnus: Man, I wish we could be together in public

Alec: I know

Magnus: I mean, we've been sleeping together for 2 and a half years, I want to be with you

Alec: I know, I know, but I don't know how my mother will react. You saw how she reacted when Izzy got pregnant with Simon's baby

Magnus: Yeah, but Izzy was 16 at the time, and your dad and little brother died a week before. Also, I was talking with Hodge, and he told me that she is letting Jace date Clary and Izzy date Simon, so maybe she will allow us to date

Alec: Yeah, hey, I'll talk to my mother and see if she will let us date, okay

Magnus: Okay, kiss me

Alec: Okay

Magnus and Alec start to kiss when there is a knock on the door.

*Knock Knock*

Alec: Shoot, you know what to do

Magnus: Yup

Alec: Come in

Maryse: Hey, Alec

Alec: Hey, Mom

Magnus: Thanks for the measurements. I will get back to work on your suit, your highness

Alec: Thank you, Magnus

Magnus: Goodbye, Your Majesty

Maryse: Goodbye, Magnus

Magnus leaves the bedroom and heads to work on Alec's suit.

Maryse: So, Alec, are you dating anyone

Alec: Well, uh

Maryse: Because there is this really handsome boy who works at the castle that I think you would like

Alec: Really, who is that

Maryse: Well, I figured, how you and Magnus get along, you and Magnus could go out

Alec: Well, Mom, Magnus, and I have been dating for 3 years now

Maryse: Why didn't you tell me

Alec: Because I was afraid of how you would react, because of how you reacted when Izzy got pregnant

Maryse: That was just because I was upset about Max and your father dying

Alec: So, you are okay with me and Magnus dating

Maryse: Of course I am

Alec: Well, Mom, I was wondering if I could have the family ring

Maryse: Why

Alec: I want to ask Magnus to marry me

Maryse: Oh, Alec, of course, you can

Alec: Thank you, Mom

Maryse: So, when are you thinking of doing it

Alec: I was thinking of taking him on a date tonight and proposing then

Maryse: Why tonight

Alec: Because it is our 3-year anniversary

Maryse: Oh, Alec, well, here is the ring. Good luck

Alec: Should I ask why you have this in your pocket

Maryse: Just in case any of my children want to get married

Alec: Okay

Maryse: I should get going

Alec: Yeah, thanks for the ring, by the way

Maryse: You're welcome, Alec

*Knock Knock*

Alec: Come In

Magnus: Hi, your highness, I think I left something in here when I came up last

Alec: Magnus, you can drop the act I told her

Magnus: Really

Alec: Yeah

Maryse: And let me say I am happy to see that you are the one who makes him happy

Magnus: Thanks

Maryse: Well, I should probably get going

Alec: Bye, Mom

Magnus: Bye, Your Majesty

Maryse leaves Magnus and Alec together.

Magnus: I am glad you told your mother

Alec: I am too. Now I can take you on a date in public

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Speaking of dates, you free tonight

Magnus: Yeah, why

Alec: I was going to take you on a date for our anniversary

Magnus: Aren't you sweet

Alec: I know, and the reason is whenever we have an anniversary, it ends up ruined by something or someone, so now that my mother knows we can go out on a date without interruptions

Magnus: By the angel, I love you

Alec: I love you too

Magnus: Alright, I have to get back to work. I just left my notebook up here, see ya tonight

Alec: Yup, I'll pick you up from your workshop

Magnus: Okay, Bye

Alec: Bye

Magnus leaves. As soon as Magnus leaves, Jace comes storming into Alec's room.

Jace: Alec, I have to talk to you

Alec: Alright, Jace, what is it

Jace: I have seen Magnus come into your room more times than mine or Izzy's

Alec: Well, Clary is Izzy's seamstress

Jace: You know what I mean. Why has Magnus been coming in so much? Does your outfit need that much work

Alec: Jace, Shut up for a second, and I will explain

Jace: Fine, explain

Alec: Magnus and I are dating

Jace: You mean like lovers

Alec: Yeah

Jace: Who have you told

Alec: Uh, Mom, Clary, Izzy, and I think Izzy might have told Simon, so basically everyone

Jace: Why was I the last to know

Alec: Well, I just told Mom so

Jace: That's great, Alec. How long has this been going on

Alec: Three years today

Jace: WOW, so since you were both 15

Alec: Yeah, and

Jace: And what

Alec: I am gonna ask Magnus to marry me

Jace: Alec, congratulations, you are gonna make Magnus so happy. What ring are you using

Alec: Well, I asked mom for the family ring, so that ring

Jace: Well, I hope it goes well

Alec: Thanks, I have to get ready, okay

Jace: Alright, see ya later

Alec: Bye, Jace

Jace Leaves.

*A Few Hours Later*

Alec gets ready to take Magnus on a date and propose to him. Alec's little sister, Isabelle, comes into his room. Isabelle is a little under 7 months pregnant.

Izzy: Hey, Big Bro

Alec: Hey, Iz, what's up

Izzy: I hear Jace telling Clary, You're gonna propose to Magnus

Alec: Oh

Izzy: So is it true

Alec: Yeah

Izzy: Oh, Alec, that's great, but what about Mom

Alec: I told her, and she gave me the family ring

Izzy: That's great

Alec: Enough about me, how is the pregnancy going

Izzy: Okay, the babies are growing fine

Alec: Oh yeah, I meant to ask what their genders are

Izzy: A baby boy and a baby girl

Alec: Iz, that's great. Well, I should get going

Izzy: Go get him, big brother

Alec: Thanks, Iz, and you should get back to Simon and get some rest

Izzy: I will

Alec: Bye

Izzy: Bye

Alec heads down to the workshop where Clary and Magnus work to pick Magnus up.

Alec: Hey, Clary

Clary: Hey, Alec

Alec: Magnus here

Clary: Yeah, he is using the bathroom

Alec: Okay

Clary: So I hear you are going to pop the question

Alec: Yeah

Clary: Well, good luck

Alec: Thanks

Magnus: Hey, Alexander

Alec: Hey, Mags, ready to go

Magnus: Yeah

Magnus and Alec leave Magnus and Clary's workshop and head to the place where Magnus and Alec had their first kiss, which was a little orchard outside the castle walls.

Alec: We are here

Magnus: Oh, Alec, this is beautiful, it looks just like it did when we had our first kiss

Alec: I know

Magnus and Alec sit down under the tree they kissed under.

Magnus: You know this place hasn't changed a bit since we were last here

Alec: A lot of things haven't changed, like you

Magnus: What do you mean

Alec: You still have the same smile that you had when you were 15, and you still have the sparkle in your eyes when you laugh

Magnus: WOW, I didn't realize all that

Alec and Magnus sit by the tree for an hour before starting to head back to the castle.

Alec: Hey, before we go back, I want to ask you something

Magnus: What's that

Alec: Magnus, I love you more than anything in the world ever since you first started working for the castle, and I can't think of my life without you, so... *Gets Down on One Knee* Magnus Bane, will you marry me

Magnus: Of Course, I will, Alec, but what about you becoming king

Alec: I want you to rule with me, so will you

Magnus: Yes, yes, I will

Alec stands up and slides his family ring on Magnus's finger and pulls him into a kiss. Alec and Magnus head back to the castle to tell their family.

*One Year Later*

Alec and Magnus got married a year ago, right after Alec's coronation. Magnus's coronation was a few months after their wedding. Isabelle and Simon had their babies, the boy they named Lucian Alexander Lewis, and the girl Ziva Clarissa Lewis. Alec is working in the library, and it looks like he hasn't taken a break in a few hours, so Magnus decided to tell Alec some big news for both of them.

Magnus: Hey

Alec: Hey

Magnus: You need to take a break

Alec: Things are so crazy right now, I don't know when I will have time to take a break

Magnus: Can you take a break for a few minutes to listen to what I need to tell you

Alec: Yeah, sure

Magnus: So you remember what I told you right after we got married

Alec: Yeah, how could you get pregnant

Magnus: Well, I'm pregnant

Alec: You're pregnant

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: WOW, we are going to be parents

Magnus: Yeah, we are. Well, I will let you get back to your work

Alec: You know, maybe I should stop for a little bit

Magnus: Glad you finally listened to me

Alec: Yeah, so how far along are you

Magnus: 3 months

Alec: 3 months, why didn't you tell me sooner

Magnus: Because, whenever I would try, you would be too busy or someone would need something

Alec: Oh, I am so sorry

Magnus: It's okay, I just want to see you during the pregnancy. Can you promise me that

Alec: I promise

Alec will stay with Magnus the entire pregnancy, making sure that he is there for his husband and his baby. 

Chapter Text

Alec and his sibling Jace and Isabelle just moved into an apartment in the city of New York. While they are moving in one of their new neighbors stops to say hi.

?????: Hi you guys must be the new neighbors that just moved in

Alec: Yeah, I'm Alec and then there is my sister Isabelle and my adopted brother Jace

?????: I'm Elizabeth but everyone calls me Eliza

Alec: You must be the neighbor from door

Eliza: Yeah, well I am one of them, I live there with my sibling and two best friends

Jace: And is your sibling as hot as you

Alec & Isabelle: Jace, Shut up

Alec: I'm sorry about that

Eliza: It's okay, I don't really know how to answer that

Alec: Don't mind him, Well we would love to get to know you guys more, why don't you come over for dinner

Eliza: We would love that

Alec: Okay say 8 o'clock

Eliza: See ya then

Eliza leaves and heads to her apartment. Alec, Jace, and Isabelle finish unpacking and finally get a chance to get ready Alec does the cooking because he is the only one who can while Jace and Isabelle get ready after dinner is done Alec hops into the shower and gets ready.

*8 o'clock*

Eliza, her sibling, and best friends arrive at Alec, Jace, and Isabelle's apartment, Isabelle is the one who opens the door.

Isabelle: Hey Eliza

Eliza: Hi Isabelle

Isabelle: Why don't all 4 of you come in

Eliza: Thanks

Eliza and 3 other people walk in after everyone comes in Jace goes over to Eliza and another girl.

Jace: So is this the sibling you talked about

Eliza: No, this is my best friend Clary, Clary this is Jace

Clary: Nice to meet you Jace

Jace: Same with you Clary maybe you would like to get some coffee sometime

Clary: I would love that

Jace: Great, so, Eliza, who is your sibling because when I talked to you, you said that you guys look alike when you were younger but then changed

Eliza: Oh, the tall boy without glasses is my sister/brother

Jace: Transgender

Eliza: Yeah

Jace: Okay

While Jace is talking to Isabelle, Alec comes out and it seems like him and one of the boys know each other.

Alec: Hey Eliza

Eliza: Hey Alec

Alec: So the redhead and the one with glasses must be your friends

Eliza: Yeah, well the other boy you look a lot alike

Alec: Wait one second, your last name isn't Bane is it

Eliza: It is

Alec: That is why he looks familiar excuse me

Alec walks over to the boy who is in the corner doing something.

Alec: Magnus Bane

Magnus: Alexander Lightwood

Alec: So you are the neighbor

Magnus: I should say the same to you

Alec: Man You haven't changed a bit since College, well besides the same clothing style

Magnus: WOW, bring that up, I see you are wearing the same black jeans and t-shirt as in College

Alec: Fair enough, but enough of that how are you doing

Magnus: I'm Good, how about you

Alec: I'm doing good, where are you working

Magnus: I'm working at the New York Children's Hospital

Alec: That's perfect for you because of your love for kids

Magnus: Yeah, so what about you

Alec: I got a job at the Children's Hospital too

Magnus: So I guess we'll be seeing each other a lot more

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: Look at that, you're the same shy and cute boy I dated in college

Alec: Okay, that was mean

Magnus: But true

Alec: Fine, but why don't we get coffee some time

Magnus: I'd really like that

*While Magnus and Alec are Taking*

Isabelle: Look, Jace, Alec is talking to someone

Jace: It seems like they know each other, by the way, they are laughing

Isabelle: Yeah

*Back on Alec and Magnus Talking*

Alec: You still have the same number from college

Magnus: Yeah

*Ring Ring*

Magnus: Shoot give me a sec

Alec: Sure

Magnus goes off to take a call then he comes back.

Magnus: I am so sorry I have to go to one of the kids I work with because she got a lot sicker, I have to go

Alec: It's okay I understand

Magnus: I just have to tell Eliza

Alec: Okay

Magnus walks over to Eliza.

Magnus: Hey Eliza, I have to go

Eliza: Oh come on you just got off what do they need

Magnus: It's Madzie, she got sicker and because she has no parents she is my responsibility

Eliza: Oh okay go

Magnus: Bye sis

Eliza: Bye big bro

Magnus leaves to help take care of Madzie.

*A Few Hours Later*

After dinner Eliza, Clary and Simon all say goodbye and head back to their apartment, and Jace and Isabelle ask Alec who he was talking to earlier.

Isabelle: Hey Alec

Alec: Yes Is

Jace: Who were you talking to earlier

Alec: Oh that was my old college roommate and boyfriend

Isabelle: Wait that was Magnus

Alec: Yeah, Jace was hitting on his sister earlier this morning when she first came by

Jace: Oh boy

Alec: But looks like Jace and Clary are going out soon, just like you and Simon, Iz

Jace: WOW, talk about old flames

Alec: Shut up, Jace, well I am going to bed I have to get up early tomorrow for work stay up if you guys want to go ahead

Alec heads into his bedroom and goes to bed. The Next Morning Alec heads to the children's hospital that he is working at. Magnus and Alec later went on a lunch date and some old love flames came back and the two kissed in the elevator on the way back to the floor they are working on because they worked on the 10th floor of the children's hospital.

*Three Months Later*

Magnus and Alec have been dating for three months now and when they are not working with a certain patient the two of them are sitting and taking care of Madzie because she is slowly starting to feel better and because she has no parents Magnus and Alec are responsible for her.

Magnus: Dr. Lightwood

Alec: Dr. Bane, how were your rounds

Magnus: Okay, I think most of my patients' parents want to drive me up the wall

Alec: Well that is why there is Madzie because we are kinda like her parents to her

Magnus: That is true, I'm just glad she is getting better

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: It seemed like she started to get better when you joined the hospital and we got together

Alec: If she wasn't sick I would say she set this up

Magnus: Yeah, let's go check on her

Alec: Okay

Magnus and Alec head into Madzie's room.

Magnus: Hey Madzie

Madzie: Hi Magnus, Hi Alec

Alec: Hi Madzie, How are you feeling today

Madzie: I'm feeling better

Magnus: That's good

Magnus and Alec sit down with Madzie, Magnus sits down next Madzie on the bed and Alec sits down in the chair next to the bed.

*30 Minutes Later

Magnus and Alec are hanging out in Madzie's Room when a woman comes into Madzie's room to talk with Magnus and Alec.

?????: Excuse me are either you Dr. Bane or Dr. Lightwood

Alec: Well I'm Dr. Lightwood

Magnus: And I'm Dr. Bane, how can we help you

?????: Well I need to talk with you about Madzie

Magnus & Alec: Okay

Magnus: Madzie, we'll be right back

Madzie: Okay

Magnus and Alec head out into the hall to talk to the woman.

Alec: So how can we help you

?????: My name is Diana and I work at the adoption center and we heard that Madzie was feeling better and we need to know if she has parents

Magnus: And what if she doesn't

Diana: She will go into the foster system and be put into a foster home

Magnus: She doesn't, but she still needs some treatment

Diana: Okay

Magnus: Alexander can I talk to you for one second

Alec: Yeah

Magnus pulls Alec off to the side and talks to him about Madzie.

Alec: What's up

Magnus: I don't know but I don't think I can see Madzie go into the foster system

Alec: Is this because you and Eliza were in the foster system

Magnus: Yeah, I think it's, but I think that because I was working with her for so long I just have a connection with her

Alec: Hey, hey, just breath

Magnus takes a deep breath.

Alec: Why don't you adopt her

Magnus: I would but I can't do it by myself

Alec: You won't do It by yourself, you'll have me

Magnus: Alec are you sure about this, I mean this will be a big deal and a big responsibility

Alec: I know but I love her as much as I love you and I love seeing you happy when you are with her

Magnus: You really want to do this

Alec: Yeah, I do

Magnus: Okay, let's do this

Magnus and Alec walk back over and talk to Diana about adopting Madzie.

Diana: So, is something up with Madzie

Magnus: No It's just Madzie needs a parent and I'm willing to adopt her

Diana: And why is that

Magnus: I have spent most of my time with her and she is my world

Diana: Okay, is there going to be a second parent

Magnus: Yeah, there is

Diana: Who is that

Alec: That will be me

Diana: Are you two together

Magnus: Yeah

Diana: Okay, well I will write up the adoption form and give it to you guys to sign

Alec: Okay

Magnus: Let's go and check on Madzie

Alec: Okay

Magnus and Alec head back into Madzie's room and tell her that they are going to adopt her, Magnus sits back down next to Madzie on the bed and Alec sits down in the chair next to Madzie's bed.

Madzie: Is everything okay

Magnus: Everything is fine that woman was from the adoption center and she was trying to check on you

Madzie: Is she gonna put me in the foster system

Magnus: She was planning on it, but

Madzie: But, what

Magnus: Alec and I are gonna adopt you

Madzie: Yay

Alec: Seems like you are excited about that

Madzie: I am

Diana: Alright Magnus, Alec, I just need you guys to sign this and she is all yours

Magnus: Alright, let's do this

Alec: Let's do this

Magnus and Alec stand up from where they are sitting and walk over to Diana who is holding the adoption form to sign the form. After Magnus and Alec sign the adoption form Diana leaves.

Diana: Alright, you guys are good to go

Magnus & Alec: Thank You, Diana

Diana: Your Welcome the both of you

Magnus and Alec smile at each other and head over to Madzie's bed and sit down next to her and she pulls the two of them into a hug.

*2 Years Later*

Magnus and Alec got married 5 months after they adopted Madzie and a few months after they adopted two boys named Rafael and Max they were found outside the hospital while Max was very ill. The 5 of them have had a caring life ever since. 

Chapter Text

There is always that one group of friends that are all from different areas in popularity but this one, in particular, is a group that involves friendship, love, and popularity. This group contains 2 couples and a pair of best friends who have crushes on each other. In the group has Clary Fairchild who is an artist who is dating Jace Herondale the Hot Jock, Simon Lewis who is the comic book nerd who is dating Isabelle Lightwood the Popular Cheerleader and Fashionista, then there is Magnus Bane and Alexander Lightwood a pair of best friends who both have crushes on each other. Magnus is the Hot and Popular Transgender Bisexual fashionista and Alec is Hot Gay Bestfriend and Singer.

Magnus and Alec have been friends since 8th grade when Magnus was new to their school and Alec had shown him around, Alec has always had a crush on Magnus since they met and Magnus has always liked Alec. Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and the two couples are going on dates and Magnus and Alec are doing what they normally do which is watching movies, but Izzy, Jace, Clary, and Simon are trying to get Magnus and Alec to go out with each other. Izzy, Jace, Simon, and Clary are all talking about getting Magnus and Alec together while Alec and Magnus are still putting things in their lockers because their lockers are next to one another.

Izzy: So guys tomorrow is Valentine's day and we need to find a way to get Alec and Magnus to tell each other

Clary: Yeah we really do

Simon: Well how are we going to do that, because Magnus won't fall for anything

Jace: Same with Alec

Clary: What if I talk to Magnus and maybe Izzy you could talk to Alec

Izzy: That's a good idea because Jace and Simon always screw something up

Jace: That's actually a good idea

Izzy: Okay let's go do this

Clary heads over and meets with Magnus and Isabelle heads over and meets with Alec.

*Clary's Meeting With Magnus*

Clary: Hey Magnus

Magnus: Hey Biscuit

Clary: So what are you gonna do for valentines day

Magnus: I hope you mean the holiday and not your dad's birthday

Clary: Yes, is mean the holiday, don't be a dick

Magnus: Oh, I'm just joking

Clary: Fine

Magnus: But Alec and I are doing the same thing we do every year just watching movies and hanging out

Clary: Magnus when are you going let Alec know you like him

Magnus: Shut up Clary

Clary: Come one, he obviously loves you too

Magnus: Really

Clary: Yeah there is that look in his eyes when he looks at you

Magnus: Fine I'll tell him tonight

Clary: That's great, alright I have to go and meet up with everyone see you later

Magnus: Bye

*Izzy's Meeting With Alec*

Izzy: Hey Big Bro

Alec: Hey Iz

Izzy: So what are you gonna do for valentines day

Alec: But Magnus and I are doing the same thing we do every year just watching movies and hanging out

Izzy: Alec when are you going let Magnus know you like him

Alec: Shut up Isabelle

Izzy: Come one, he obviously loves you too

Alec: Really

Izzy: Yeah there is that look in his eyes when he looks at you

Alec: Fine I'll tell him tonight

Izzy: That's great, alright I have to go and meet up with everyone see you later

Alec: Bye

Izzy and Clary meet up with Jace and Simon and tell them that both of them are gonna tell them they like each other.

*End of the School Day*

At the end of the school day Izzy, Clary, Jace, and Simon all leave ahead of Magnus and Alec because their all going on dates for the night. Magnus and Alec meet up at their lockers so they could head over to Alec's house to watch movies.

Alec: Hey

Magnus: Hey

Alec: You ready to go

Magnus: Yeah

Magnus and Alec head over to Alec's house. Alec and Magnus sit down on the couch in Alec's living room, while watching one of the movies Magnus moves a little closer to Alec when Alec sees Magnus moved closer to him he wraps his arm around Magnus's shoulder. Alec and Magnus finish watching the movies Magnus looks at the time and sees that It's late.

Magnus: Man look at the time, I should go

Alec: I guess

Magnus: Well I will see you tomorrow

Alec: I'll see you tomorrow

As soon as Magnus starts to leave Alec relizes he forgot to tell Magnus something

Alec: Oh Magnus

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: I just wanted to tell you something

Magnus: I actually need to tell you something too

Magnus walks back to Alec who is standing in the living room.

Magnus: Okay, I really feel like I should tell you this and also if I don't do this Clary will kill me

Alec: I have a similar thing but Izzy will kill me

Magnus: Do you mind if I go first

Alec: No I don't mind

Magnus: Okay, Alec how long have we known each other

Alec: A little over 5 and ½ years, now

Magnus: Okay, I have had the biggest crush on you since then and I kinda just had to get that out in the open

Alec: WOW, Okay, Um, You know I was gonna tell you the same thing

Magnus and Alec have the biggest smiles on their faces, Alec pulls Magnus into a kiss. The next day Magnus and Alec walk into school and walk over to their lockers to grab their stuff for their first class as the bell rings Isabelle, Simon, Clary, and Jace all see Alec and Magnus give one more kiss before they both depart for class.

Izzy: Look, Magnus and Alec are finally together

Jace: Yeah

Clary: Hey I guess that all our prying paid off

Simon: Yeah

Izzy, Jace, Simon, and Clary all head off to class.

*4 Years Later*

Four years later Magnus and Alec are Married and have 2 boys named Rafael and Maxwell and a baby girl on the way, Isabelle and Simon are engaged, and Clary and Jace are also Married with one Girl, all of them are living in New York. Magnus is a Fashion Designer, Alec is a Cop at the NYPD, Isabelle and Jace are both Teachers at and Elementary School, Simon is a CEO of a big business company, and Clary is an Art Teacher at a middle school. 

Chapter Text

Magnus and Alec have been married for two years and are the kings of Idris, Isabelle and Simon got Married and moved into a castle not too far away and Clary and Jace live in the same Castle that Alec and Magnus live in just a different area of the castle. Magnus is now 8 and ½ months pregnant and the baby is due any day now, Magnus and Alec found out that they are going to have a baby girl just a few months ago, and Clary and Isabelle have been making baby clothes for Magnus and Alec's little one who is on the way. Alec has been with Magnus ever since the day he found that they were having a baby. Magnus and Alec starts to wake up when Magnus starts to feel some contractions but his water hasn't broken yet so he isn't sure if they are Braxton and Hits Contractions or Early Labor.

Alec: Morning Mags

Magnus: Morning Alexander

Alec: So ready for a new day

Magnus: Ya... Ouch...

Alec sees that Magnus is in pain so he moves to the floor in front of him.

Alec: Are you alright

Magnus: Yeah, It's just a sharp pain that's all, It's probably just Braxton Hits Contractions

Alec: Are you sure it's not labor

Magnus: I don't think so I still have 3 more weeks left, I'll be fine

Alec: Are you sure

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Just to be sure I am going to cancel my meeting today

Magnus: No It's okay

Alec: No, It's not, I am going to stay with you because of you being in pain

Magnus: Okay

Magnus and Alec get up and get dressed for the day and Alec gives a call to the people he was going to have a meeting with saying that he couldn't make it. Another hour later Magnus and Alec are sitting on the couch in the library where Magnus told Alec they were having a baby talking about names for their little girl when Magnus is hit with another contraction.

Alec: So what should we name the baby

Magnus: I don't know

Alec: You know what I have an idea for her name

Magnus: What is it

Alec: It's...

Magnus: Ow, Ouch, Oh God

Alec: Are you okay

Magnus: The same pain I had an hour ago

Alec: Mags, I think you're in labor

Magnus: No I can't be...

In the middle of Magnus' sentence his water brakes

Magnus: Oh My God

Alec: Did your water brake

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Let's get you to the hospital

Magnus: Alright

Alec tells his sibling he is taking Magnus to the hospital and they head there. Magnus' doctor is one of his best friends, Jem Carstairs as soon as Magnus and Alec got their Jem checked Magnus and told them that it should be a few more hours and leaving Magnus and Alec to wait for a little bit.

Magnus: I guess you were right I was in labor, I'm sorry I didn't listen to you sooner

Alec: It's okay

Magnus: You know you never told me what the name you thought of was

Alec: Oh, I thought of Alexa Lynn after your mother

Magnus: I really like it

Alec: I'm glad you like it

Magnus: If she was here... Ow, Ow, God, this hurts

Alec: Hey Breath, I'm right here

Magnus: *Deep Breath* I'm glad, I have you as a husband, you're gonna make a great father

Alec: And your gonna make a great mother

*One Hour Later*

Magnus and Alec have been waiting for an hour with Magnus's contractions being every 5 minutes. Jem comes into the room to check on Magnus.

Jem: Alright, Magnus you are almost there you are at 8 and a half centimeters I'll be back in a half an hour to see how you are doing

Magnus: Okay

Jem leaves the room and Magnus lays back and Alec kisses Magnus on the head.

Alec: I love you

Magnus: I love you too

Alec: Man we are this close to becoming a family

Magnus: Yeah... Ow Oh God

Alec: Hey, Hey I'm right here, just breathe

Magnus: *Deep Breath* Okay

Alec: There you go, just a little bit of time left before we can hold our little girl in our arms

Magnus: Yeah,

*30 Minutes Later*

Jem comes in to check in with Magnus, after checking Magnus he tells Magnus it's time and they get ready to deliver the baby.

Jem: Okay let's check on how far you are

Magnus: Okay

Jem: Alright, Magnus it looks like it's time to deliver this baby give us a minute

Magnus: Alright

Alec: Okay only a little bit longer and then we will have our little girl

Jem comes back and tells Magnus what to do.

Jem: Okay Magnus, what I want you to do is on your next contraction I want you to push okay

Magnus: Okay, Oh god

Jem: Alright here we go

Magnus: Ow, Ow, Ow

*10 Minutes Later*

Jem: Okay next one should be along in a minute

Magnus: God, Alec, I don't know how much longer

Alec: I'm right here and I will always be

Magnus: I'm running out of strength

Alec: Baby, take my hand and some of my strength

Magnus grabs Alec's hand

Magnus: Ow, Oh god

Jem: One last push

Magnus: Ow, oh god

Alec: Almost there, almost there baby

Magnus: Oh God

Jem: And she's here

Jem takes the baby and cleans her up and hands her to Magnus.

Alec: Oh My God, She's beautiful

Magnus: Yeah she is, Hi sweetheart, your father and I will always love you

Alec: Your mother is right, we will always love you with all of our hearts

Jem: And do we have a name for the little princess

Alec: We are naming Alexa Lynn after Magnus's mother

Jem: Alright, I'll leave you three be

Magnus & Alec: Okay

Jem leaves Magnus and Alec with their daughter. A few hours after she was born Alec's family arrived to meet the new addition to the family. A few days after the birth of their daughter Magnus and Alec took their daughter back home to start their new family, but unlike when Alec and his siblings were growing up Alec told the royal staff that Magnus and himself would be taking care of their daughter by themselves making sure she would grow up to be a great princesses and ruler one day. 

Chapter Text

Magnus and Alec are in college, are roommates and two of the best friends in the whole world. Magnus is a dancer who got into the University of California on a dance scholarship while Alec got into college on an archery scholarship because when he is not doing schoolwork or hanging out with Magnus he is doing archery. One day in November Magnus's dance teacher told him that there is a dance competition that he could win if he was able to get a dance partner. Magnus knew that he wouldn't be able to get a partner until someone offers to dance with him.

Magnus gets back to his and Alec's dorm room.

Alec: Hey Mags

Magnus: Hey Alexander

Alec: How was your dance class

Magnus: It was okay

Alec: Why do you say that

Magnus: My dance teacher told me about this dance competition that I was in the running for winning it but I am not gonna be able to do it

Alec: Why not

Magnus: I don't have a partner

Alec: What about Puck or Mike

Magnus: They won't do it Mike is gonna be out of town when the competition is and Puck was suspended for 2 weeks for getting into a fight with one of the other classmates

Alec: God, Puck can't go more than a day without getting into a fight

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: So there is nobody who can dance with you

Magnus: Nope

Alec: Well, this is gonna sound really dumb but...

Magnus: But what

Alec: How about I be your dance partner

Magnus: Alec I can't ask you to do this, I mean can you even dance

Alec: I can after my mother and father got divorced I started taking dance with my younger brother and sister after two weeks in the same class as my younger siblings I moved to the travel team and spent every weekend for 5 years dancing

Magnus: WOW

Alec: So can I be your partner

Magnus: Oh my god, yes, thank you so much

Magnus gets up from his bed and walks over to Alec so lost in thought that he hugs Alec and not realizing what he was doing and kissed Alec

Magnus: Oh my god, I am so sorry Alec, I didn't mean to

Alec: Hey, It's okay

Magnus: God I feel like an Idiot right now

Alec: It's okay

Magnus: Uh, we can practice tomorrow, just pick me up after class

Alec: Alright

Magnus and Alec get started on their homework for the classes they have the next day. Alec and Magnus had met up the next day and worked on their dance routine for the next few weeks. Over the weeks' Alec started to have strong feelings for Magnus trying to figure out how to tell Magnus that he likes him. For Alec, he started to like Magnus the moment Magnus kissed him.

*Competition Day*

Magnus and Alec arrive at the dance competition getting ready for the competition while the two of them are warming up Alec notices someone who he hasn't seen in years.

Magnus: Alec, Alec, Alec

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: Are you okay

Alec: Yeah, It's just I feel like I know him from somewhere but I can't place it

Magnus: Oh boy, Johnathan Morgenstern he has always beat me in these things

Alec: Wait did you say, Johnathan Morgenstern

Magnus: Yeah, Why

Alec: He was in my travel team a few years back he said that he would get me back when I beat him in a competition for a placement round on the travel team

Magnus: Oh boy, look like he is dancing with Camille Belcourt the best female dancer up and down the east coast, we are screwed

Magnus sits down on a chair by their station and Alec kneels down in front of Magnus and tries to look Magnus in the eyes.

Alec: No, we are not, we don't know how long they have been working for this but I know Johnathan may have a great skill background with his partners, but we have something that they will never have

Magnus: And what's that

Alec: We have Chemistry, and I know you know this because Magnus when you kissed me a few weeks ago what did you feel

Magnus: I felt a tingling why

Alec: That's the chemistry we have, and I don't think anyone else does

Magnus: Okay

Alec: Come on Johnathan and Camille are up and then it's us and if I know Johnathan one of the judges are going to tell them that they have no chemistry, Let's watch

Magnus: Alright

Magnus gets up and He and Alec walk over to the side of the stage to watch Johnathan and Camille dance. After the Johnathan and Camille dance, the judges started to give them feedback.

Judge 1: Well Johnathan you never disappoint with your skills but today your moves were a bit sloppy

Johnathan: Okay

Judge 2: Camille you did great today but you lost your focal point during your spins I would like to see you have a bit more focus

Camille: Fair

Judge 3: I don't know if any of the other judges are thinking this but I saw no chemistry up there it's like you are complete strangers

Judge 2: I saw that too

Judge 1: I think what we are saying is you guys were not the best match as a pair maybe get to know more about each other next time

Camille and Johnathan: Alright

Alec tells Magnus.

Alec: I told you

Magnus: Fine

The judges finish giving Camille and Jonathan their feedback.

Judge 1: Thank you, you two

Camille and Jonathan: Bye

Camille and Johnathan leave the stage after they leave the lights blackout and Magnus and Alec take their places on the stage getting ready while the announcer does his job.

Announcer: These dancers are showing that no matter who you dance with may it be with someone who is a different gender or the same gender you can still have fun with one another, Our final dancers are our only same-sex dance pair, 19-year-old Magnus Bane and 19-year-old Alexander Lightwood, take it away boys

The announcer finishes their speech, the spotlights come on and the music starts.

After a few minutes, the music finally finishes and Magnus and Alec end, everyone in the building is clapping and cheering for them. Magnus and Alec stand up and Alec pulls Magnus into a hug waiting for their feedback.

Judge 1: WOW, just WOW I am speechless, Alexander Lightwood I think this is the first time in what 4 years since I have seen you dance and you have made the biggest come back I have ever seen

Alec: Thank You

Judge 3: I absolutely loved your guys dance the music was amazing and perfect for this dance and I think everyone else in this room will agree with me but you guys have the most chemistry I have seen on the stage tonight

Judge 2: I agree, Magnus your dance skills are fabulous and you have made great strides since we last saw you dance against this many people it seems like there is something that has changed since we saw you

Magnus: I have had so much fun these past few weeks and even if we don't win this I had a lot of fun dancing with Alexander and It was the most amazing time getting to bond with him

Judge 1: And Alexander how do you feel

Alec: I also have had so much fun these past few weeks and I got to bond with Magnus a lot more than I would if we were just hanging out in our dorm room and as a dancer when I was a young child I always was forced to dance with women and I felt like I wasn't good enough because of my sexuality and this is the first time in years of dancing that I am okay with my skills and sexuality and if I didn't do this with my roommate, best friend, and love of my life

Judge 3: Alright you guys definitely have a good shot, thank you boys

Magnus and Alec: Bye

Alec and Magnus leave the stage and once Alec is off the stage Magnus jumps into Alec's arms as Alec spins Magnus around and sets him back down.

Magnus: Alec what you said out there is that true

Alec: What that you are the love of my life

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: Yeah it's true and I didn't think about until you kissed me a few weeks ago, Magnus Bane I love you

Magnus: Alexander Lightwood I love you too

Alec pulls Magnus into a kiss, the two locking lips and Magnus wraps his arms around Alec's neck as Alec wraps one of his hands around Magnus' waist and the other hand moving it to Magnus' hair.

*A Few Minutes Later*

After a few minutes of kissing the announcer makes the announcement for all the couples out to the stage one at a time.

Announcer: Alright, now to bring out each pair, Kyle and Maria

Kyle and Maria come out on stage.

Announcer: Jason and Katherine

Jason and Katherine come out on stage.

Announcer: Ali and Grace

Ali and Grace come out on stage.

Announcer: Johnathan and Camille

Johnathan and Camille come out on stage.

Announcer: And Finally Alexander and Magnus

Alec grabs Magnus's hand and they come out on the stage.

Announcer: I am going to let the judges take over and announce our top three winners, judges

Judge 2: We want to thank you all for everything you have done to prepare for this competition, third place, Ali and Grace

The crowd starts to clap and cheer for Ali and Grace.

Judge 3: second place Johnathan and Camille

The crowd starts to clap and cheer for Johnathan and Camille

*Whisper*

Camille: We should have done so much better

Johnathan: It's all your fault you annoying demon bitch

*End of Whisper*

Judge 1: And our first place winners, the one pair that showed put so much effort into their routine...

All of the remaining couples take a deep breath and Alec could tell Magnus was getting nervous because his hand was getting very tight.

Judge 1: Magnus Bane and Alexander Lightwood

The crowd starts to clap and cheer for Magnus and Alec, Alec pulls Magnus into a hug and kisses his head seeing that Magnus has a tear in his eyes. After this, all of the groups leave the stage and head home.

*Back at the Dorm*

Magnus and Alec arrive back at the dorm room Magnus sets down their prize on the desk by the window while Alec puts his coat on the coat rack and locks the door and sits back down on his bed.

Magnus: Alexander, I want to thank you for dancing

Alec: You're welcome, now...

Alec pulls Magnus onto his lap.

Magnus: Oh, Alec

Alec: What I have been wanting to do for a while

Alec pulls Magnus onto his lap and starts to kiss. As the two start to kiss Magnus wraps his arms around Alec's neck as Alec wraps one of his hands around Magnus' waist and the other hand moves it to Magnus' hair.

*Few Minutes Later*

Alec: You know what

Magnus: What

Alec: If all I had to do is become your dance partner to tell you about my feelings I would have done it a long time ago

Magnus: Really

Alec: Yeah

Magnus: I love you

Alec: I love you too

Magnus and Alec become closer in their relationship and after four years in college, they move to New York and got a little apartment and Alec decided to propose to the love of his life. Today is Alec and Magnus's anniversary so Alec is getting ready to propose to Magnus who would be home in 2 hours after college Alec got a job as a cop and Magnus got a job as a fashion designer so Alec got done early so he could set everything up.

*2 Hours later*

Alec has everything set up when Magnus comes back Alec gives him a kiss and brings him into the dining room so they can eat. After dinner, Alec grabs the ring out of his pocket and grabs Magnus's hand.

Alec: Hey, I want to ask you something

Magnus: Okay

Alec: Magnus, I love you so much I have since the day we met and once we kissed for the first time I knew that you were it and I wanted to spend every moment with you and have a family with you, Magnus Bane...

Alec gets down on one knee.

Alec: Will you be my partner for life and marry me

Magnus: Oh my god, Yes I will

Alec puts the ring on Magnus's finger and kisses him.

Magnus: I love you so much

Alec: I love you too, so care to dance

Magnus: Yes, please

Alec stands up and Grabs Magnus's hand as the music starts to play. After a few moments, later Alec and Magnus head into the bedroom and Alec has to call his sister to tell them the news. After 8 months they finally get married and after 6 months of being married Alec gets Magnus pregnant with a baby girl that they are going to name Alessa. 5 years after Alessa was born they adopted a newborn baby boy named Rafael. And after another four years, Alec gets Magnus pregnant again with a baby boy that they are naming Max after Alec's younger brother who died when Alessa was a year old.

Chapter Text

Alec and Magnus have been married for 2 years now and they are just about to have their first child. Alec had been working for several weeks to make sure that there was no work that he had to do for when the baby comes, the Clave has been breathing down Alec's neck because the Clave is still not into the idea of Shadowhunters and Downworlders being married ever since one of the Clave members got into a marriage with a downworlder and they got a divorce since they were too different and since Alec and Magnus are married and they are having a baby it is only giving the Clave a reason to hate the idea.

*Noon*

Alec and Magnus are at home. Alec is about to leave the house to head to the Institute and since Magnus' due date is just around the corner, and because of that Alec has been staying in the office more.

Alec: Are you sure you don't want me to stay here with you

Magnus: Yes, Alexander I am sure if anything happens you know I will text you

Alec: Alright be safe, both of you

Magnus: We will, and also Tessa and Jem will be here

Alec: Alright, I love you

Magnus: I love you too

Alec gives Magnus a kiss and heads to the Institute, while Magnus is at the Apartment hanging out with Tessa and Jem since they are in the same situation the Magnus and Alec are in except they are a Heterosexual couple.

*5 hours later*

Alec has been in his office working on a bunch of paperwork when his family along with Clary and Simon come into his office to get to talk with him since he has been so busy.

Maryse: So Alec, when is the little one due

Alec: Tomorrow

Jace: Then why are you in your office and not with your husband in case he goes into labor

Alec: I have been so busy trying to get all the work done so when the baby does come I can spend time at home with the baby

Robert: Alec, I know you are trying to make sure that there is nothing to do, but there is always gonna be work to do, and I might have not been the best father but when you were about to be born I dropped everything and stayed with your mom

Alec: Yeah I know, but what the weird thing is that ever since I announced that the baby was coming it seems like the Clave has been giving me more and more paperwork closer to the due date

Izzy: Come on Alec that can't be true

Clary: You have to be exaggerating

Simon: Yeah there is no way that they would give you so much work just before you are about to become a father

Just as Simon says that 3 Clave members come in with a bunch of work for Alec.

Clave Member 1: Mr. Lightwood, here is some more paperwork we need you to do

Alec: Okay by when

Clave Member 1: Tomorrow

Simon: Huh, we were wrong

Alec: What, I'm sorry that is not going to work

Clave Member 2: Well it is either that or we replace you

The 3 Clave members start to leave when Alec stops them.

Alec: Alright, that is it

Clave Member 1 What is wrong Mr. Lightwood

The 3 Clave Members turn around and come back in.

Alec: You are only doing this because I am married to a Downworlder

Clave Member 2: What are you talking about

Maryse: Yeah what are you talking about

Alec: I have grown up under the Clave and I know that you hate the idea of Shadowhunters in relationships with Downworlders since that one marriage between a Shadowhunter and a Downworlder didn't work out and ever since I told you that I am having a baby with my warlock husband you have been dumping all of this work on me...

Clave Member 3: Where are you going with this Lightwood

Alec: What I am saying is that you can't keep dumping loads of work on me because of who I am married too and who I am having a child with, If you want to replace me you can go ahead and do so because Magnus and our baby, they're my pride and joy and this is my life, not yours so you can take the paperwork that doesn't apply to me and you can take it back and walk right back out that door and take care of it yourself because I don't care what you think about the way I am living my life because I know who I am

Izzy: Way to go Alec

Maryse: Alec is right he has a life of his own, you thought it was wrong for Shadowhunters to be gay or bi but Alec did prove you wrong when he came out in front of everyone, and this I actually agree with my son because you are the ones with a problem

Robert: So why don't you take all that paperwork back and head back to Idris

Jace: I know that you all are upset with this but I think my Parabatai will agree with me when I say this but you can take that paperwork and shove it so far...

Alec: That's enough Jace, don't overdo it

The 3 Clave members take the paperwork and leave the Institute.

Alec: I am so glad I said that, but I think I might have just ruined my career

Maryse: That's okay, you did what you thought was right

Clary: And you said what we all were thinking

Alec: Thanks, you guys

Jace: For what

Alec: For having my back with that

Izzy: Well we better have had your back because you are giving Jace, Max, and I a niece or nephew and mom and dad a grandchild

Simon: Yeah, Clary and I might be new to the Shadow world but we will always have your back

Right after Simon finishes talking Alec's phone buzzes and Alec checks it.

Alec: Well I am glad I got that off my chest, cause the baby is coming

Maryse: What

Alec: Yeah, oh god the baby's coming

Jace: Well what are you doing still standing here go, man, go, get ready to become a father

Robert: Your mother and I have the Institute under control, go

Alec: Alright

Alec grabs his jacket off his chair and runs back home and takes Magnus to the hospital.

*20 minutes later*

Alec and Mangus are at the hospital Alec has just been able to go back since the had to check Magnus out before they could let Alec back since they are two different species. Alec comes in and sits next to Magnus' bed.

Alec: Hey how are you feeling

Magnus: A bit better but still in pain

Alec: I should have been with you not running from the Institute to the apartment

Magnus: It's okay

Alec: you know, I guess it's true

Magnus: What's true

Alec: Well the Clave tried to dump all this work on me which ended up with Jace insulting them after I told them the reason that they kept giving me all this work and I told them that you and our baby are my pride and joy and I might have ruined my career in the process

Magnus: That is so sweet, and I am glad you told them off all that paperwork was putting too much stress on you which was stressing me out which isn't good for the baby

Alec: Yeah I know, I really didn't want that to happen

Magnus: It's okay Alexander, You are gonna be one great father

Alec: You're gonna be an amazing mother, so how far are you

Magnus: 2 centimeters

Alec: So we have some time before our little one arrives

Magnus: Yeah, we do

Alec: I love you so much

Magnus: I love you too

Alec: I promise that I am gonna be there for you and our baby no matter what happens, I am not gonna be my father

Magnus: Alexander, you were never like your father, you were more like your mother very caring and sweet, I am glad my child has you as a dad

Alec: I'm glad you are my child's mother

*7 and ½ hours later*

Magnus and Alec have been in the hospital for almost 8 hours now and all of Alec and Magnus' family has been in the waiting room for the past 2 hours.

Magnus: My god, your child really doesn't want to come out

Alec: I guess the baby isn't ready to come yet

Magnus: Yeah, well tell that to my water breaking and the contractions that have been happening

Alec: Well maybe the baby really wants to come on their due date

Magnus: Yeah *Contraction* Ow Ow

Alec: Hey, I'm right here, I'll always be here

Magnus: I'm glad *Contraction* Ow, God, the baby really wants to come today

Alec: Well that just means we get to hold the baby sooner

Magnus: Yeah *Contraction* Ow, Ow

Doctor: Alright Magnus let's see where you are

Magnus: Let's hope far along I've been doing this for 9 hours

Alec: But your water broke 8 hours ago

Doctor: Well sometimes minor Braxton-hicks contractions can actually be a regular contraction and you just don't know it

Alec: Okay

The doctor checks to see where Magnus is.

Doctor: Well you are 9 ½ centimeters so we are gonna get set up so we can deliver the baby

Magnus: Okay

Alec: I am gonna go tell our family, I'll be right back okay

Magnus: Okay

Alec heads into the waiting room to talk to his and Magnus's family.

Izzy: So what is going on

Alec: Well let's just say that our baby is gonna be born on their due date

Maryse: Really

Alec: Yeah, Magnus wanted me to tell you to get ready for the new family member

Robert: We can't wait

Alec heads back into Magnus's room where the doctors and nurses are already there, Alec sits down next to Magnus and holds his hand.

Alec: You ready to become a mom

Magnus: Yeah, I am, I am also ready to have my body back

Doctor: Alright, Magnus on your next contraction I want you to start to push

Magnus: Okay

Alec: I'm always gonna be right here

Alec takes Magnus's hand when Magnus has a contraction he starts to push.

Magnus: Ow Ow Ow

*20 minutes later*

Doctor: Alright Magnus the next contraction is gonna be along in a minute

Alec: You are doing so good

Magnus: I don't know if I can keep doing this

Alec: You can, I know you can

Magnus smiles at Alec and continues to push.

Magnus: Ow, God

Doctor: Alright, one more push

Magnus: Ow, Ow, Ow

After the final push, the baby is out and they have Alec cut the cord and clean the baby up.

Alec: You do so good, I am so proud of you

Magnus: Thanks, I am glad that part is over

Alec: Yeah, I bet, but now we have our little one

Doctor: Alright here you go, here's your little girl

The doctor hands the baby to Magnus.

Magnus: Hi baby girl, we are so happy to have you with us

Alec: We are always gonna love you, baby girl

Magnus: Why don't you go get the family

Alec: Alright

Alec heads out to the waiting room and gets their family and brings them back to the room where they got to meet the baby.

*35 minutes later*

After 35 minutes, the Inquisitor showed up with the 3 Clave members that tried to dump all of the work on Alec the day before.

Alec: Inquisitor Penhallow, what are you doing here

Inquisitor Penhallow: I heard that these 3 members showed up trying to dump work on you yesterday

Alec: Yeah, they did I've been getting work from them for the past 7 months now

Inquisitor Penhallow: Well, I wanted to let you know that none of the work that you have been given these past 7 months was work that you were required to do the work was supposed to be done by the members of the Clave

Izzy: Then why was it given to Alec

Inquisitor Penhallow: These 3 members are the children of the original Clave member who was original married to a Downworlder before marrying another Shadowhunter

Maryse: So they were trying to blame Alec and Magnus for their parents' pasts

Inquisitor Penhallow: Exactly, but after hearing about how you stood up to them and how your Husband and Child are your pride and joy I had them removed from the council

Robert: That is a first

Inquisitor Penhallow: Yes, well I now think that it is time for a fresh start between Shadowhunters and Downworlders when it comes to romance and also I think the best idea is to place a Shadowhunter that has a relationship with a Downworlder

Alec: But why me, I mean I'm not the only one who has a relationship with a Downworlder, I mean what about Jem or Tessa

Inquisitor Penhallow: We normally would choose one of them but since Jem has become a Silent Brother and Tessa has chosen her Warlock side the next best choice would be you also you are the one who stood up against the Clave not them

Alec: Oh, I am gonna have to think that over

Inquisitor Penhallow: We understand, we will give you a week to decide

Alec: Okay, I will let you know

The 4 members start to leave the room.

Inquisitor Penhallow: Congratulations, by the way

Alec: Thank you, Inquisitor Penhallow

They leave the room.

Maryse: Well we should all get home and get some sleep

Jace: Yeah, We'll see you guys later

Alec: Alright we'll see you later

The rest of them leave the room leaving Magnus and Alec alone with their daughter.

Magnus: Alright what are you thinking

Alec: What do you mean

Magnus: Alexander, I know when your brain is running crazy, so you better tell me

Alec: It's just if I say yes to this position it's gonna take me to Idris permanently and I don't want to have to move there without you and our baby girl

Magnus: I'm sure that if you talk with the Clave about this they can figure out a way to fix that

Alec: Yeah it's just a lot to deal with right now

Magnus: You're telling me that, I just went through 9 ½ hours of labor

Alec: Fair enough, I'll talk to them in a couple of days

Magnus: Good, Now onto the other problem

Alec: What's that

Magnus: A name you stupid Shadowhunter, It's lucky you are cute

Alec: What about Alexa Lynn

Magnus: I like that

Alec sits down on the bed next to Magnus and Alexa.

Alec: I am so proud of you, I can't wait to raise her with you

Magnus: I can't wait to raise her with you too

Magnus hands Alexa to Alec and leans his head onto Alec's shoulder.

*1 week later*

Alec and Magnus were discharged from the hospital 4 days after Lexi was born and they have been home for 3 days. Alec is on his way to talk with the Inquisitor.

Inquisitor Penhallow: Alexander Lightwood or is it Lightwood-Bane

Alec: It's Lightwood-Bane

Inquisitor Penhallow: So have you given thought to our offer

Alec: I have

Inquisitor Penhallow: And

Alec: I am willing to take the job but...

Inquisitor Penhallow: But what

Alec: Is there any way that I don't have to move here permanently or let my family move to Alicante with me

Inquisitor Penhallow: Well since you are the councils Shadowhunter-Downworlder representative, we can have the ward adjusted for downworlders to come into Idris and let your family stay and since we will let Downworlders into Alicante, I want to give your husband the option to be High Warlock of Alicante

Alec: I will ask him tonight

Inquisitor Penhallow: We will see you soon

Alec heads back home. When he gets home Magnus is sitting on the couch with Lexi feeding her.

Magnus: Hey, how was the meeting

Alec: It turned out great, the Inquisitor said that they would let you and Lexi move to Idris with me

Magnus: That is great

Alec: The Clave also offered you a job

Magnus: What job would the Clave offer a Warlock

Alec: They want you to become High Warlock of Alicante since they are gonna fix their wards to let downworlders in

Magnus: WOW, I didn't think they would do that

Alec: I think it is because they want a fresh start with the Downworlders

Magnus: I guess so

Alec: How is the little one

Magnus: Good, she is very hungry today though

Alec: I guess so

Alec sits down next to Magnus.

Magnus: So when do we have to move to Idris

Alec: I start in a few days

Magnus: Well once we get a home in Idris we can then portal all of our stuff there

Alec: It would be a soon move

Magnus: I don't care, as long as our family is together I don't care

Alec: Alright, let's put the little one to bed and get some sleep so we can start packing in the morning

Magnus: Alright

Magnus and Alec take their daughter to her room and put her down for the night and head to get some rest for themselves before having to get up and pack in the morning.

*2 week later*

It has been 2 weeks since Alec, Magnus, and Lexi have moved to Idris. Alec has been the Shadowhunter-Downworlder representative on the council for 8 days now and Magnus has been the High Warlock of Alicante for a week now. Alec arrives at home to his husband sitting on the couch with Lexi in her bassinet next to the couch.

Magnus: Hey Alexander

Alec: Hey Mags

Magnus: How was your day

Alec takes a seat next to Magnus.

Alec: Good, how was yours

Magnus: Good, better now that you're here

Alec: Let's get the little one to bed and then let's just enjoy the rest of the night together

Magnus: That sounds great, I really need a break from everything that is going on

Alec: Well we can fix that

Magnus: Alright I'll be right back

Magnus takes Lexi to her nursery and gets her ready for bed and lays her down for the night.

*5 minutes later*

Magnus finally gets Lexi down for the night and comes back out into the living room and sits down with his husband.

Alec: I was starting to wonder what was going on

Magnus: Just trying to get her to bed

Alec: Well that means she is like you

Magnus: What do you mean

Alec: A night owl, always up in the late hours of the morning

Magnus: That is not me anymore

Alec: But it was something that you used to do

Magnus: Which all changed when I married you and became a mom to your child

Alec: Which are some of the things that I love about you, You and Lexi will always be my pride and joy

Chapter Text

Alec and Magnus were at Magnus's apartment after freeing Jace from the owl. Magnus had called Catarina to help heal Alec from the arrow in his heart. Magnus was hoping that Alec was gonna be alright because there was so much going on right now with losing his magic and something that he just found out. Catarina had finally finished up with Alec and had come out into the living room.

Magnus: Thank you so much, Catarina

Catarina: It's no problem, I don't know how many times I needed you to help me out with things like this

Magnus: Yeah, that's true, so how is he doing

Catarina: He is doing fine, he is resting but he should be up and around in a few days

Magnus: That's good

Catarina: So why did I need to do this, you have done it before

Magnus: I know I have, but I can't anymore

Catarina: Why not

Magnus: I gave up my magic to my dad for the amount I needed to free Jace from the owl

Catarina: Oh, my god Magnus

Magnus: And...

Catarina: And what

Magnus: I found out that I'm pregnant

Catarina: Oh my god Magnus, that's great

Catarina pulls Magnus into a tight hug. Pulls out of the hug

Catarina:  It's Alec's right

Magnus: Yes, It's Alec's

Catarina: Well I am so happy for you, you're gonna be a great parent

Catarina: Well, I should get going

Magnus: Alright, I'll see you soon

Catarina: I'll see you soon, you take care of yourself and that little one you are carrying

Magnus: I will

Catarina leaves Magnus's Apartment and heads off to work. Magnus heads into his bedroom to check on Alec, Magnus sits down on the edge of the bed next to Alec and holds Alec's hand. While he is sitting with Alec he thinks back to when he found out that he was expecting Alec's baby.

*Flashback*

It was a few weeks earlier and Magnus was a doctor's appointment. The doctor that Magnus goes to is a mundane doctor but the doctor himself is a werewolf. Magnus had just gone back and was waiting for the doctor. The doctor came into the room.

Dr. Desai: Hi Magnus

Magnus: Hi Dr. Desai

Dr. Desai: So how are you doing today

Magnus: I've had better days

Dr. Desai: Well what's going on

Magnus: I've been dizzy, nauseous, and just not myself lately

Dr. Desai: How long have you felt like this

Magnus: Maybe a few weeks

Dr. Desai: Okay, well I'll take a look at your blood work, it should only take a few minutes to get the result

Magnus: That's good

Dr. Desai: So I just want you to answer some information

Magnus: Ok

Dr. Desai: Full Name

Magnus: Magnus Bane

Dr. Desai: Date of Birth

Magnus: December 8th, 1600's

Dr. Desai: Species

Magnus: Warlock

Dr. Desai: Gender

Magnus: Mostly Male with parts of Female, so Intersexed

Dr. Desai: Alright, Let's get you checked out and find out what's going on with you

Magnus: Okay

*20 minutes later*

Dr. Desai had just finished up checking out Magnus and went to check Magnus's Blood work. After 10 minutes, Dr. Desai comes back with the results of Magnus's blood work.

Dr. Desai: Okay, so I have the results of your blood work and there are some abnormal things on your blood work

Magnus: Like what

Dr. Desai: Well I have a couple of questions for you to answer that might explain why the results are so abnormal

Magnus: Okay

Dr. Desai: So are you in a relationship

Magnus: Yes I am

Dr. Desai: With who

Magnus: A shadowhunter named Alexander

Dr. Desai: Are you two sexually active

Magnus: Yes we are, we are very sexually active

Dr. Desai: How often do you have sex

Magnus: I don't know maybe once or twice a day

Dr. Desai: Okay, that explains why your blood work is abnormal

Magnus: So, what is going on

Dr. Desai: Well since you are very sexually active and with a person with Angel blood, you're pregnant

Magnus: I'm pregnant

Dr. Desai: Yes, according to this almost a month

Magnus: WOW

Dr. Desai: I know that this is a lot to take in, but you will be fine

Magnus: Okay, well I am gonna have to schedule an appointment with my OBGYN then

Dr. Desai: Well good luck and I'll see you in a few months

Magnus: Okay, Thank you, Dr. Desai

Dr. Desai: No problem Magnus

*End of Flashback*

Alec: Hey, you okay

Magnus: Yeah I'm fine, actually I'm better than fine, I'm just glad your okay

Alec: I wasn't gonna leave you that easily

Magnus: Good, cause I'm gonna need you a lot more now

Alec: Okay, what happened

Magnus: Well for my dad to give me the power I needed to save Jace, I had to...

Alec: Had too what

Magnus: I had to give up my magic and give it to my father to save Jace

Alec: Magnus I never wanted something like this to happen, why did you do it

Magnus: Because I had to, I didn't want to lose Jace to demonic evil magic and not be able to do anything about it

Alec: That's why I love you, cause you go out of the way to help others before yourself

Magnus: Yeah, and I didn't want to bring a child into the world when they could be in danger

Alec: Bring a child into this world, wait Magnus are you pregnant

Magnus: Yeah, I just found out a few weeks ago but I didn't want to tell anybody until this thing with Jace settled down

Alec: Well why didn't you tell me

Magnus: Because I knew you would tell me to stop trying to help you get Jace back

Alec: You still should have told me

Magnus: I know, but now that things have settled down we can go through this together without having to worry about anything

Alec: Yeah, we can, so how far along are you

Magnus: A little over a month

Alec just smiles and is speechless.

Magnus: What is it

Alec: I am just really happy that's all

Alec moves over and has Magnus sits next to him as he wraps his arm around his pregnant boyfriend.

Alec: I can't wait for this baby

Magnus: I can't wait either, and I'm glad you're the one who gave me the opportunity to have a child

Alec: And I am glad you're gonna be the mother of my child

Magnus and Alec say together throughout the night in the same spot. The next few days Magnus takes care of Alec making sure that he heals completely and while Magnus is taking care of Alec, Alec is making sure that he is making sure that Magnus was taking care of himself and the baby. 

Chapter Text

It's been a few weeks since Clary was killed, since Alec was stabbed, and since Magnus told Alec lost his magic and was pregnant. Magnus is now 2 ½ months along in his pregnancy and has gotten used to not having his magic and carrying a child at the same time. Alec has been making sure that he isn't working too much and that if he has to work longer than scheduled that Magnus knows he will be late. Alec had come home one day just as Catarina and Madzie left.

Alec: Hey babe

Magnus: Hey

Alec sat down next to Magnus.

Alec: How are you and our little one doing

Magnus: Well, besides being sick to my stomach a good chunk of the day, we've been fine

Alec: That's good, so I see Catarina brought Madzie over

Magnus: Yeah, she is super excited to have a cousin

Alec: Ah, Then you told her

Magnus: Nope, Catarina did

Alec: When did Cat find out

Magnus: Right before you did, when she asked me why I didn't use my magic to save your life, and I would've if I could

Alec: I know you would've, but right now let's just worry about your's and the baby's health, by the way, how did you find out you were pregnant I thought normal pregnancy tests work weird with Downworlder pregnancy's

Magnus: I found out when I went to the doctor she took a look at my blood work to see if anything as abnormal, and that was the one thing that was off about my blood work was that I was pregnant

Alec: Okay, but don't mind me asking who is Dr. Desai

Magnus: She is my primary care doctor, she is kinda like Catarina, she works with mundanes but she is a werewolf

Alec: Alright at least I know who is taking care of my love

Magnus lays his head on Alec's shoulder.

Magnus: You know what you just reminded me of something

Alec: What's that

Magnus: I have an OBGYN appointment in the morning

Alec: Really

Magnus: Yeah, the first appointment of the many to come

Alec: Well, I'll make sure to be there then

Magnus: You know you don't have to come

Alec: Of course I do, I'm the father of the child I should be there for this

Magnus: Are you sure, I don't want...

Alec: Magnus, I'm gonna go with you to the doctor's appointment, end of discussion

Magnus: Fine, I wasn't gonna win that argument was I

Alec: No you weren't

Alec and Magnus spend the rest of the night together.

*The Next Morning*

Magnus and Alec are up and getting ready for Magnus's doctor's appointment. When they are done getting ready they start to head to the OBGYN. When they get there Magnus fills out the form they gave him and when he is done filling out the form Magnus and Alec head back to the room waiting for the doctor. The doctor comes into the room.

Dr. Kane: Hey Magnus

Magnus: Hi Dr. Kane

Dr. Kane: So you're here as a pregnant patient

Magnus: Yes, I am

Dr. Kane looks over at Alec who is standing next to Magnus.

Dr. Kane: So you must be the father of the child then

Alec: Yes, I am

Magnus: Yes, Dr. Kane this is Alec he's the father and my boyfriend

Dr. Kane: Well Magnus when you said you were dating a shadowhunter I thought you were kidding but, clearly I was wrong

Magnus: I think this is the third time you have been wrong when it has come to things with me

Dr. Kane: Yeah, so what are you 8 weeks

Magnus: More like 10 weeks

Dr. Kane: Alright, well then let's take a look

Magnus: Alright

Magnus sits back and Alec stands next to him and holds Magnus's hand.

Dr. Kane: This is gonna be a little cold

Dr. Kane applies the gel on Magnus's stomach and moves the machine around a bit to find the baby. Once he finds the baby he shows Magnus and Alec the screen.

Dr. Kane: Alright here we go

Magnus and Alec look at the screen.

Alec: There's our baby

Magnus: Yeah, that's our baby, I can't believe it

Alec: Me either

Dr. Kane: I'm gonna let you get changed and I'll get everything written up as well as copies of the sonogram

Magnus: Okay

Dr. Kane leaves the room and Magnus gets dressed, while Alec waits for him to finish. Once Magnus finishes getting dressed Alec pulls Magnus into a hug.

Magnus: What's this for

Alec: It's just, I know things have been rough the past few months, and this is the first time things have been normal

Magnus: I know things have been crazy, but ever since I lost my magic you and our baby have kept me sane

Alec: I'm glad, I can do that

Magnus: You always have

Alec Kisses Magnus's head.

Alec: Thank you

Magnus: For what

Alec: For everything, mostly for making me a father

Magnus: I am glad, you are still with me

Alec: Why wouldn't I be with you

Magnus: Well there have been times where my magic had gone dormant and when they realized I was a mundane they dumped me...

Magnus has tears in his eyes.

Magnus: And by the time they heard I had my magic back, they just wanted to use me, and I just know that if you ever left me and my magic can back it would be like the all over again

Alec: Hey that is never gonna happen, I am never gonna abandon you or our child, you guys are my everything

Dr. Kane comes back into the room.

Dr. Kane: I hope I am not interpreting anything

Magnus: No, your not

Dr. Kane: Well here is your sonogram pictures

Magnus: Thanks

Dr. Kane: I want to see you again next month

Alec: We will both be here

Dr. Kane: Alright see you guys

Magnus and Alec head back to Magnus's apartment. When they get there Alec kisses Magnus goodbye and heads off to the Institute. Magnus had told Alec the day before to tell his siblings about the baby but he had been so busy that he forgot, so he planned to tell them when he got there cause he knew he would be beaten up about being late.

*In Alec's Office*

Alec had just gotten into the Institute when his sister and parabatai come barging into his office.

Jace: Alec

Isabelle: Thank god you're alright

Isabelle pulls her brother into a hug.

Alec: Of course I am alright, why wouldn't I be

Isabelle: You were 2 hours late, we were scared something happened to you

Jace: She means she was scared

Isabelle pulls out of the hug with her brother and looks at Jace.

Isabelle: Oh please you were freaking out too, don't deny it

Jace: Fine, Fine, I freaked out

Alec: It's okay Jace

Jace: So where were you

Alec: Magnus and I had something to do

Jace: Oh god, please don't say you guys got freaky

Alec: Okay, first don't ever say that again and secondly, we didn't we won't be doing anything like that for a while

Isabelle: Why did you two have a fight

Alec: No, we didn't

Jace: Then why won't you be doing that

Alec: Oh that's right you guys don't know yet

Isabelle: Know what

Alec: Alright, Well Magnus and I are expecting a baby, Magnus is 2 ½ months pregnant

Isabelle: Oh my god, Alec that's great

Isabelle pulls her brother into a bone-breaking hug.

Alec: Yeah, It is but Izzy if you break me you and Jace are gonna be in charge of my unborn child

Isabelle pulls out of the hug again and stands next to her older brother.

Jace: Yeah, and I don't need that responsibility, but congrats Alec you are gonna be an amazing father

Alec: Thanks guys, but we have some work to do so let's get going

Isabelle: Alright

Alec, Isabelle, and Jace head out of Alec's office and head off to work on a mission they had been working on for the past few days. 

Chapter Text

It's been about 4 and ½ weeks since Alec and Magnus had their first sonogram of the baby and since Alec told his siblings about the baby. Recently the shadowhunters have noticed that there have been sightings of Jonathan Morgenstern with a girl that looks like Clary but had dark hair. When Alec got the alert that the Paris Institute had spotted the two of them and that one of their shadowhunters had been killed he told Jace to grab his weapons and wait for when he got back, Alec had headed to Magnus's apartment to grab his bow and arrows.

Magnus: Hey, what are you doing here so early

Alec: I had to come to grab something

Magnus: Okay, Is everything alright

Alec: Yeah, the Paris Institute has spotted Jonathan with a girl who matches Clary's description

Magnus: Wait Clary's alive

Alec: She might be, is Luke at the station

Magnus: No but I can call him and have him meet you at the Institute

Alec: Thanks

Alec grabs his stuff and comes over to Magnus.

Alec: I'll be back soon, take care of yourself and our little one

Magnus: I will, and you stay safe I need the father of my child

Alec: I'll be fine

Magnus: Okay give me a second

Alec: Alright

Magnus calls Luke to have him meet Alec and Jace at the Institute.

Magnus: Alright Luke is on his way to the Institute

Alec: Alright, I'll call you when we get back and if we have Clary

Magnus: Okay

Alec heads to the Institute and meets up with Jace and Luke and has a warlock open a portal to Paris.

*A Few Hours Later*

Jace, Alec, and Luke arrive back in New York along with Clary. Alec had Jace go back to the Institute and call Isabelle to tell her and Simon that they had found Clary. Alec had also told Luke to take Clary home and let her get a shower and get changed. While Jace and Luke left Alec had gone home to get Magnus, when he got home Magnus was on the couch reading.

Alec: Hey Babe

Magnus: Alexander, is everything okay

Alec: Yeah, we found Clary

Magnus: Shes alive

Alec: Yeah, Luke is gonna bring her back to the Institute after she gets cleaned up

Magnus: That's great

Alec: You coming

Magnus: Yeah

Magnus stands up and comes with Alec. On the way to the Institute, they are talking about what has happened that day.

Alec: How were you and the little one

Magnus: Good, the same as every other day

Alec: Well at least you are safe

Magnus: I would never put myself in harm's way especially with this little one growing inside me

Alec: Good, I don't want anything to happen to either of you

Magnus: How was Clary when you found her

Alec: She was okay, besides being tied to Jonathan

Magnus: I get it being tied to anyone you dislike isn't exactly a day in the sun

Alec: Really, you understand that

Magnus: Yeah, when Asmodeus took me in as a child, he tied me and my magic to him, and as the days went on I couldn't stand to be with him anymore, so once I had control of my magic I broke the bond and never looked back, until 3 months ago

Alec: WOW, I mean I knew you had a rocky relationship with your dad but I didn't think it was that bad

Magnus: Yeah, but I don't have to worry about him anymore because I have you and our soon-to-be family

Alec: I still can't believe everything that is going on right now

Magnus: Like what

Alec: I mean Clary coming back, you losing your magic, and you and I having a baby

Magnus: Yet maybe it's all for a good reason

Alec: Why do you say that

Magnus: Well with Clary coming back Jace with finally stop complaining about it, with me losing my magic you and I are a bit more alike, and do I have to explain about us having a baby

Alec: I guess you're right

Magnus and Alec arrive at the Institute. When they get inside they meet up with Jace. After a few minutes of waiting Luke and Clary come back. Magnus comes over and hugs Clary first.

Magnus: It's good to have you back Biscuit

Clary: It's so great to see you to

Clary looks at Magnus.

Clary: What happened to you

Magnus: I'll explain to you later

Magnus and Clary separate from the hug and Magnus stands next to Alec as Isabelle and Simon come in.

Simon: Clary, Hey

Simon hugs Clary tight.

Clary Hi

Simon pulls out of the hug.

Simon: Am I dreaming

Clary: No

Simon: I'm not

Clary: No

Simon hugs Clary tight again

Simon: Oh my god

Simon pulls out of the hug as Isabelle comes up behind him.

Simon: Ok, sorry, sorry

Simon steps to the side and Isabelle comes over to Clary.

Clary: Hi

Isabelle: Hi

Isabelle hugs Clary and pulls out of the hug.

Isabelle: Tell me where Jonathan is, I'm gonna kill that son of a bitch with my hands

Jace: You can't, None of us can

Simon: Why

Clary: Lilith carved this rune into me, right before your mark blasted her back to hell

Alec: The rune ties Clary's life force to Jonathan's

Luke: Hurt one of them, you hurt the other one in the exact same way

Alec: Which is why I sent an alert out to the other institute, Jonathan must be captured alive

Clary: He was looking for a sword in Paris the Morning Star, If we can find it first, maybe we can track down Jonathan

Simon: Another magic sword

Clary: He said it was some sort of family heirloom

Isabelle: I'll reach out to all the weapons master to get intel

Magnus: I'll draw all the ley-line junctions in the city, If Jonathan moved the apartment, we'll find him

Clary: Thank you... all of you, I... I honestly don't know what I would do without you

Simon: That's what family's for, Fray

Alec: Alright, let's get to work

Magnus, Alec, Simon, Isabelle, and Luke all head off to do work that they would do.

*2 hours later*

Magnus has been working on a map of the ley-line junctions when Alec comes into the room to check on him.

Alec: Hey Mags

Magnus: Hey Alexander

Alec comes over and kisses Magnus on the cheek, Alec places his hands on Magnus's small baby bump.

Alec: How are you and the baby doing

Magnus: We are okay

Alec: That's good, how is the map of ley-lines coming

Magnus: It's good, I keep forgetting how many ley-line junctions there are

Alec: Well don't overwork yourself, I don't want either of you to become stressed it's not good for either of you

Magnus: Well I guess somebody has been talking with the doctor

Alec: Well, I wanted to make sure I know everything before this little one is born

Magnus: You're gonna be an amazing father Alexander

Alec: Mags, you're gonna be an amazing mother

Magnus: Yeah, now we have to tell Clary unless Jace blabs it to her

Alec: I can tell her

Magnus: Okay, thank you, baby, well I better get this map of the ley-lines done

Alec: You're welcome, So how much longer do you think you'll be

Magnus: Maybe another hour at most

Alec: Alright I'll be back in an hour to check on you

Magnus: Ok, I love you

Alec: I love you too

Alec leaves Magnus to finish up the ley-line junctions map and heads to check on how Clary is doing.

Alec: Hey Clary

Clary: Hey Alec

Alec sits down on Clary's bed next to her.

Alec: How are you doing

Clary: I'm doing good, it's hard to settle in though

Alec: I bet, we are glad to have you back Fray

Clary: Thanks, Alec, So what is going on with you and Magnus

Alec: Well, Magnus and I are having a baby

Clary: Alec that's great, you guys are gonna be great parents

Clary pulls Alec into a tight hug, not as tight as Izzy's though.

Alec: Thanks Clary, and thanks for not giving me a bone-breaking hug like my sister did

Clary: No problem

Clary and Alec pull out of the hug.

Clary: So when is the baby due

Alec: Ending of June, Early July

Clary: That's great, so you guys are gonna have a summer baby on your hands

Alec: Yeah, we are, I can't wait

Clary: You seem nervous

Alec: By the Angel, you can see right through me

Clary: What's got you so nervous

Alec: I guess I never thought I would be a dad so soon

Clary: Yeah, but you have potential, I've seen the way that you take care of Izzy and Max, and sometimes Jace you're gonna make a great dad

Alec: Thanks Clary, you're an amazing person

Clary: I grew up in the mundane world so I guess I am used to it

Alec: I also want to thank you for something else

Clary: What's that

Alec: For everything, If I never met you I wouldn't be where I am today, I never would have met Magnus, I would be in a loveless marriage, I never would have come out, and Magnus and I would not be having a baby

Clary: You're welcome

Alec: Well I have to get going, I've got work to do but if you need anything let me know

Alec starts to leave the room.

Clary: Hey Alec

Alec: Yeah

Clary: Thank you

Alec: For what

Clary: For being so kind to me, even though you didn't like me at first

Alec: Well you are easy to warm up to Fray

Alec leaves Clary's room and heads to his office.

*1 Hour Later*

Alec comes into the office to check on Magnus.

Magnus: Alexander I can feel your presence

Alec: I know

Alec kisses Magnus on the cheek.

Alec: So how is it coming

Magnus: Good, since that was the last ley-line junction to map

Alec: That's good, so shall we get home

Magnus: Yeah, let's get going

Alec and Magnus are on their way home. Once they get home they take a seat on their couch. Alec sits next to Magnus, wraps his arms around Magnus, and places his hands on Magnus's small baby bump.

Magnus: So did you tell Clary about the baby

Alec: Yeah, I did she and was really happy for us, and she can't wait to meet the little one

Magnus: Alexander are you okay, you don't seem like yourself

Alec: What, no I'm fine

Magnus: No you're not, Alexander you need to tell me

Alec: Ok, I guess I am nervous that's all

Magnus: Nervous about what, becoming a father

Alec: No, I nervous about messing something up

Magnus: Alec, there is nothing to worry about, it's normal for soon-to-be fathers to worry about messing up their child or children, I bet if you ask your dad he would say the same thing like I have said before you're gonna be an amazing dad

Alec: I guess so

Magnus: I know so

Magnus kisses Alec on the lips.

Alec: Come on let's head to bed

Magnus: That sounds great

Alec and Magnus heads to their room and gets ready for bed finally falling asleep in each other's arms. 

Chapter Text

It's been 2 months since Clary has returned home, they have been searching for Jonathan at every chance they get. Magnus is now 6 months pregnant, and Alec and Magnus can't wait to meet their baby. Alec's family has been so excited to meet the baby and they can't wait for the baby to be born. Alec has just come home from work and came over to check on Magnus.

Alec: Hi babe

Magnus: Hey Alexander

Alec sits down next to Magnus.

Alec: How are you and our little girl

Magnus: We are doing fine

Magnus and Alec rub Magnus's baby bump which has gotten bigger in the past few months.

Alec: Man only 3 more months until we get to meet our baby girl

Magnus: Do you remember when we found out about our little girl

Alec: Yeah I do, It was one of the best days of my life

*Flashback*

It was a 1 ½ month ago, Magnus and Alec were at an OBGYN appointment, this one was one of the most important ones they were gonna find out the gender of the baby. Magnus and Alec are waiting for the doctor to come in. 15 minutes later the doctor came in.

Dr. Kane: Hi Magnus, Hi Alec

Magnus & Alec: Hi Dr. Kane

Dr. Kane: So how are you feeling today Magnus

Magnus: Good, I little bit nauseous but fine otherwise

Dr. Kane: Well that's normal as you know, So today is the day you are gonna get to know the gender of your baby

Magnus: Yeah, I can't wait

Alec: Me either

Dr. Kane: Well Magnus you know the drill

Magnus: Yeah, I know

Magnus sits back and Alec stands next to him and holds Magnus's hand.

Dr. Kane: You know, this is gonna be a bit cold

Magnus: Yeah, I know

Dr. Kane applies the gel to Magnus's stomach and moves the machine around a bit to find the baby. Once he finds the baby he shows Magnus and Alec the screen.

Dr. Kane: Alright, here we go

Alec: WOW, our little is really getting big

Magnus: Yeah

Dr. Kane: So you ready to know the gender

Alec & Magnus: Yeah

Dr. Kane moves the machine around just a bit and gets the best angle to see the gender of the baby.

Dr. Kane: Alright, if you look here you can see that you guys are gonna be having a baby girl

Magnus: WOW, I can't believe it

Alec: Me neither

Dr. Kane: Well I am gonna go get copies of the sonogram

Magnus: Okay

Dr. Kane leaves the room and heads to get the copies of the sonogram. Magnus sits up and Alec grabs Magnus's hand.

Magnus: WOW a little girl, I never thought this day would come

Alec: Me either, I have a feeling our little girl is gonna be just like you, strong, intelligent, and beautiful

Magnus: Alexander, you are so sweet

Dr. Kane comes back into the room.

Dr. Kane: Magnus is right Alec, you really are sweet, Here are the photos of your little girl

Magnus: Thanks Dr. Kane

Alec: Yeah, thanks Dr. Kane

Dr. Kane: It's no problem, I'll see you guys next month

Magnus: See you then

Magnus and Alec leave the doctor's appointment and head home to enjoy the rest of their day together.

*End of Flashback*

Alec: You know what I told you was 100% true

Magnus: Really

Alec: Yeah, I know for a fact that as our little one gets older she is gonna be just like you

Magnus: You are amazing, Alexander

Alec: You know I can't wait for our baby girl to be born

Magnus: Me either

While Magnus and Alec are together on the couch they both feel the baby kicking for the first time.

Magnus: Did you feel that

Alec: Yeah I did, that's the first time she has done that right

Magnus: Yeah, that's the first time she's kicked

Alec: WOW, she is strong

Magnus: Yeah she is

As Alec keeps talking the baby keeps kicking.

Magnus: She likes your voice

Alec: Really

Magnus: Yeah

Alec: well only 3 more months left till we get to hold her

Magnus: Yeah, and the time is gonna fly by

Alec: Yes it will

Magnus and Alec spend the rest of the night together feeling the baby kicking all throughout the night. The two of them head to bed and knowing that the baby is growing and getting stronger. 

Chapter Text

It has been 3 months since the baby had started to kick and Magnus's due date is just around the corner. Alec has been very protective of Magnus the past month with the Shadowhunters having to find out where Jonathan is located and with the baby coming any day now. Today Alec had gotten the day off to spend with Magnus in case the baby decided to come, which little did they know would be true. Alec and Magnus are on the couch when he noticed that Magnus looked like he was in pain.

Alec: Hey are you okay

Magnus: Yeah, I'm just having some sharp pains that's all

Alec: How often

Magnus: Maybe every 20 minutes in the past hour

Alec: Has your water broken yet

Magnus: Not yet...

Magnus's water brakes.

Magnus: Scratch that, yeah it has

Alec: Alright, let's get you to the hospital then

Magnus: Alright

Alec and Magnus leave the apartment and head over to the hospital. Once they get there they get Magnus settled into a room Alec has a seat next to him.

Alec: How are you feeling

Magnus: Sore and uncomfortable

Alec: I'm sorry

Magnus: There is nothing you have to be sorry about, you didn't do anything wrong

Alec: Yeah, well I was the one who put the baby in you

Magnus: And I am always gonna be happy about that because when you are gone I will have someone who reminds me of you

Alec grabs Magnus's hand.

Alec: Yeah, well there is still a long time to go till then

Magnus: I love you so much

Alec: I love you too

Alec kisses Magnus on the cheek.

Magnus: Alexander are you ok

Alec: Yeah, I'm great, I'm just thinking that's all

Magnus: What is it

Alec: I'm just wondering are you gonna be able to do this without your magic

Magnus: Yeah, I'll be fine you have nothing to worry about, I've been to hell and back with everything that has happened to me this is just one more thing to take care of and It's a good thing

Alec: Are you sure you are gonna be okay without...

Magnus: Alexander, I am gonna be fine trust me

Alec: Alright

*5 Hours Later*

It's been 5 hours since Magnus was admitted into the hospital due to being in active labor. Magnus is officially at 9 ½ centimeters, Alec has been very supportive and hasn't left Magnus's side since they had been admitted to the hospital. Magnus and Alec are waiting for the doctor to come back in to check on Magnus and hopefully deliver the baby.

Dr. Kane: Hey Magnus, Hey Alec

Magnus: Hi Dr. Kane

Alec: Hi Dr. Kane

Dr. Kane: So 5 hours into active labor

Magnus: Yeah, I can't wait for this little one to be born, and let hope soon

Dr. Kane: Well let's have a look and we will see how long until your little girl is born

Magnus: Alright

Dr. Kane checks to see how far dilated Magnus is.

Dr. Kane: So is this getting painful and uncomfortable

Magnus: Yeah, but it's totally worth it

Dr. Kane: Well good news you are ready to deliver this baby, so we will get set up, and then you guys will finally be parents

Magnus: Okay

Dr. Kane leaves the room and goes to get the stuff to set up for the delivery of the baby.

Alec: So, you ready to deliver our little girl

Magnus: Yeah, I am I can't wait to hold her and mostly have my body back

Alec: Your body is perfect no matter what happens to it

Magnus: You are so sweet

Dr. Kane comes back in with a nurse to help deliver the baby.

Dr. Kane: Alright Magnus you ready to do this

Magnus: Ready as I'll ever be

Dr. Kane: Alright let's do this

Dr. Kane gets everything set up and has everything they need for when the baby comes.

Dr. Kane: Alright Magnus on the next contraction I want you to start pushing

Magnus: Okay

Alec takes Magnus's hand when Magnus has a contraction he starts to push.

Magnus: Ow Ow Ow

*15 minutes later*

Dr. Kane: Alright Magnus the next contraction is gonna be along in a minute

Alec: You are doing so good

Magnus: I don't know if I can keep doing this

Alec: You can, I know you can

Magnus smiles at Alec and continues to push.

Magnus: Ow, God

Dr. Kane: Alright, one more push

Magnus: Ow, Ow, Ow

After the final push, the baby is out and they have Alec cut the cord and clean the baby up.

Alec: You did so good, and I am so proud of you

Magnus: Thanks, I'm just glad the hard part is over

Alec: Yeah, now the best part of all this begins

Magnus: Yeah

Dr. Kane hands Magnus their baby girl.

Dr. Kane: Here you go, here's your guy's healthy baby girl

Magnus: Thank you, Dr. Kane

Dr. Kane: You're welcome, make sure you keep me updated as she grows up

Alec: We will

Dr. Kane: Alright, you guys stay safe

Magnus: You too

Dr. Kane leaves Magnus and Alec alone with their baby girl.

Alec: Oh my Angel, she looks a lot like you Mags

Magnus: I guess but I see a lot more of you than me

Alec: Well our family can determine that when they meet her

Magnus: Yeah, by the way, did you call them

Alec: No I didn't I figured we could surprise them when you and our little one get discharged

Magnus: That sounds like a great idea

Alec: So we have to choose a name for our baby girl

Magnus: Yeah, what did you have in mind

Alec: What about Rose for a middle name

Magnus: I like that but what about her first name

Alec: I don't know

Magnus: What about Alexa

Alec: I like it, it fits her

Magnus: Yeah, it does

Alec smiles at Magnus and Alexa. Alec is so proud of Magnus and can't wait to watch Alexa grow up, and knows she will be growing up in the blink of an eye.

Magnus: Alexander, what's wrong

Alec: Nothing at all

Magnus: You sure

Alec: Yeah, everything is perfect

Alec kisses Magnus on the head and sits down next to Magnus.

*3 Days Later*

It's been 3 days since Alexa was born. Magnus and Alec are finally getting to take her home and the entire family will get to meet her for the first time. While Magnus is getting changed Alec is sitting with Alexa.

Alec: By the Angel, look at you, you're are so sweet, Mommy and I are so glad to have you in our family and there is not gonna be a better family for you to grow up with

Magnus finishes getting dressed and sees his boyfriend and their daughter on the bed. Magnus came over to Alec and their daughter.

Magnus: Hey

Alec: Hey, you ready to go

Magnus: Yeah, I am

Alec: Alright let's get going

Magnus: Alright

Alec grabs their bags while Magnus grabs Alexa who is in the car seat and they start to head home.

Alec: I am so proud of you, you did an amazing job with her

Magnus: I wasn't the only one who had something to do with her, you did most of the work

Alec: You did most of the work, you carried her for the last 9 months

Magnus: Yes, but if you never got me pregnant she wouldn't be with us right now

Alec: Okay, I guess that is true, I am just glad we finally have our family

Magnus: Yeah me too, speaking of family, when do you want your family to meet Alexa

Alec: How about I call my family and have them meet us in my office tomorrow that way we can get her settled into our home

Magnus: That sounds perfect

Alec: Just like you and our baby girl

Magnus kisses Alec on the cheek.

Magnus: Alright, let's get this little one home

Alec: Alright

Alec and Magnus head home.

Magnus: Home sweet home

Alec: Yup, and now to start the best part of our journey as parents

Magnus: These are gonna be the best parts of our life together

Alec: Yeah, I am gonna go and put our stuff in our room

Magnus: Okay

Once they get home Alec sets their bags down in the bedroom while Magnus brings the baby into the living room, Alexa is starting to fall asleep in her car seat. Alec comes back into the living room behind Magnus.

Alec: Okay, our bags are in the bedroom

Magnus: Good, I think we need to get this little one to bed, she's already falling asleep

Alec: Let's hope she sleeps

Magnus: Let's hope

Magnus and Alec take Alexa to her nursery. By the time they get her into her crib, she had already fallen asleep in Magnus's arms. Magnus puts the baby in her crib, once Magnus sets the baby in her crib Alec wraps his arms around Magnus's waist.

Alec: She is so precious

Magnus: I know, I still can't believe she is here

Alec: You wanna know what I want to know

Magnus: What

Alec: How you have been sleep deprived for the past 3 days and you still look beautiful

Magnus: Alexander you are so sweet, How did I get so lucky with you

Alec: You just got lucky that's all

Magnus: Come on let's go relax before she wakes up

Alec: Okay

Magnus grabs the baby monitor and heads back out into the living room with Alec and they sit down on the couch together.

Alec: When was the last time we just relaxed on the couch without having to worry about anything

Magnus: Right before Jace was taken over by the owl

Alec: So about a little bit less than a year ago

Magnus: Yeah, but I am glad we get to be alone now

Alec: It might be one of the few times we get to be alone for a while

Alec wraps his arms around Magnus. They spend the next few hours cuddling on the couch, Alec still being very protective of Magnus until their baby girl finally wakes up.

*The Next Morning*

Alec and Magnus had been up throughout the night taking care of Lexi. Alec had called his family to let them know that they had to meet him in his office, but he didn't tell them why. Everyone except Maryse, Robert, and Max were meeting Alec in his office but Alec planned to tell Maryse later that evening when he went to see her. Magnus had gotten up and dressed first and while Alec was getting ready he was feeding Lexi and getting her dressed. Alec came out of the bedroom to see Magnus finishing getting her dressed.

Alec: Hey you ready to go

Magnus: Yeah, let's go

Magnus picks Lexi up and walks over to Alec.

Alec: Alright let's go, so this little one can meet her family

Magnus: Well most of them

Alec: True

Alec and Magnus take Lexi to the Institute. When they arrive Alec heads into his office and meets with Clary, Simon, Jace, and Isabelle while Magnus waits with Lexi outside.

Alec: Hey guys thanks for meeting me here

Isabelle: It's no problem, big bro

Jace: So what is it

Alec: Well Magnus and I wanted you guys to meet someone

Clary: Who

Alec: Wait here

Alec heads out and him and Magnus come into the office with Lexi.

Alec: Guys this is our daughter

Clary: Oh my angel, she is so small

Isabelle: Yeah, but she is adorable

Jace: You guys did so good

Simon: She looks a lot like you guys

Magnus: Thanks Simon,

Clary: Magnus, can I hold her

Magnus: Sure biscuit

Magnus hands Lexi to Clary.

Jace: So what did you end up naming her

Alec: We named her Alexa Rose

Isabelle: What a beautiful name

Simon: Yeah, and she is gonna grow into that name beautifully

Alec: I hope so

Alec and Magnus spend the next few hours with Alec's family in the Institute so they get to know Lexi more. After those few hours, Magnus and Alec take Lexi home. When they get home Magnus and Alec went to put Lexi down for the night. Magnus gets Lexi changed and ready for the night.

Alec: Hey, I have to go meet up with my mom for a little bit

Magnus: Okay, I'll see you when you get home then

Alec: Yeah

Magnus puts Lexi down in the crib and comes over to Alec. Magnus kisses Alec.

Magnus: I love you

Alec: I love you too

Alec leaves the apartment and heads to his mother's shop to talk with her about something important.

*10 Minutes Later*

Alec arrives at his mother's shop and heads into the shop.

Maryse: Alec, what a nice surprise

Alec: Thought I would stop by and actually see the place, I'm proud of you

Maryse: Thanks it's really coming together isn't it

Alec: There's actually something I want to talk to you about

Maryse: What is it

Maryse and Alec have a seat at the table.

Alec: Magnus and I had the baby a couple of days ago

Maryse: That's great, I can't wait to meet her

Alec: Yeah, she has already had met most of the family

Alec grabs his phone out of his pocket and pulls up a photo of Magnus and Lexi.

Alec: This was taken on the day she was born

Alec hands Maryse his phone.

Maryse: My god she is so precious

Alec takes his phone back from Maryse.

Alec: Thanks, and when I saw how much pain he was in, I realized how much I can't live without him

Maryse: That's what love is, I am so glad you guys found each other

Alec: Me too, and I need the family ring, I am gonna ask Magnus to marry me

Maryse: Oh Alec

Maryse pulls Alec into a hug.

Maryse: You are gonna make an amazing husband for Magnus

Alec: I hope so, I don't want us to end up like you and dad

Maryse: You won't, what happened between me and your dad was not your or your siblings' fault, we just grew apart that's all, so you and Magnus will not end up like us

Alec: Well I have to get home to Magnus and the baby

Maryse: Alright well here is the ring

Maryse hands Alec the Lightwood family ring.

Alec: Thanks mom, I'll see you later

Maryse: See ya later

Alec says goodbye to his mother and heads back home to Magnus and the baby. Once he gets home he heads into the bedroom to see Magnus asleep. He gets changed for the night and gets into bed with Magnus before falling asleep. 

Chapter Text

It has been a month since Alec planned to propose to Magnus, but It never happened. Ever since the baby was born he was a lot more tired without his magic. Alec went to talk with Asmodeus to convince him to give Magnus his magic back, Asmodeus said that he would give Magnus his magic back if Alec would end his relationship with Magnus. Alec ended his relationship with Magnus but still stayed in his daughter's life a few weeks ago, Magnus was devastated but tried to keep a smile on his face for their daughter, a few days later Asmodeus came to give Magnus his magic back.

Magnus was taking a walk through the city with Lexi when Asmodeus showed up.

Asmodeus: My boy and my little granddaughter

Magnus: How'd you get here, what fool summoned you

Asmodeus: A father's love knows no bounds, you should know

Magnus: I'm a mother, not a father

Asmodeus: Well, I could feel your pain all the way from Edom, So I had to come

Magnus: Stay away from me and my daughter

Asmodeus: You misunderstand, son

Magnus: Oh, no, no, no no, I completely understand, You're here to spread your darkness, it's what you do

Asmodeus: No, Today, I came to give you back what's rightfully yours

Asmodeus give Magnus his magic back, leading Magnus to push Asmodeus off of him almost losing grip of Lexi.

Magnus: My magic, what do you want

Asmodeus: What every father wants, to see their child happy

Magnus: With you, there's always a price

Asmodeus: Not this time, In the centuries since you've banished me, not a day has passed when I haven't felt the pain of losing you, I took your magic to bring you closer, that was wrong, all I want is another chance to be your father again and be the grandfather Alexa rightfully deserves

Magnus: Too Late

Magnus opens a portal.

Asmodeus: I won't take no for an answer

Magnus: You don't really have a choice

Magnus and Lexi disappear through the portal and arrive at the place they are staying at. Magnus sits down with Lexi on the couch.

Magnus: I'm so sorry you had to see that sweetheart, that was your grandfather he isn't the most caring person in the world but he is your grandfather

Magnus looks at his little girl who is starting to fall asleep.

Magnus: Oh my sweet baby girl

Magnus adjusts a bit so Lexi is laying in a different position than the way she was and starts to sing to her. After a while Alexa fell asleep in Magnus's arms and for the first time, he noticed that she looks a lot like Alec when she slept. Magnus got up with Lexi and took her to the nursery and lays her in her crib. Just before heading to get some rest for himself. 

Chapter Text

It's been two days since Magnus's magic had been returned. Magnus had spent most of the past few days taking care of Lexi, today Catarina was coming over to visit and meet Lexi for the first time. Magnus is in the living room with Lexi who was in her bassinet which was next to the couch when there was a knock at the door. Magnus heads over and opens the door.

Magnus: Hey Catarina

Catarina: Hey Magnus, how are you doing

Magnus: I'm doing good

Catarina: Well you look good for only have had a baby a month and a half ago

Magnus: It's called wearing makeup, I am running on 3 hours of sleep a night

Catarina: You still look good

Magnus: Thanks Cat

Catarina: So is your little one awake yet

Magnus lets her in and closes the door.

Magnus: Not yet but she is asleep in the living room

Catarina: Okay

Magnus and Catarina head into the living room. Catarina sits down on the couch while Magnus picks Lexi up and sits down next to her.

Magnus: This is my daughter Alexa Rose

Catarina: Oh, Magnus she is so sweet

Magnus: Thanks

Catarina: She looks a lot like you

Magnus: Yeah, but she sleeps like her father

Catarina: Speaking of her father where is Alec I would think he would be here

Magnus: Alec and I broke up

Catarina: Why in the name of Edom would you do that

Magnus: I don't know, he said things had changed between us and left

Catarina: But that doesn't sound like something Alec would say unless he was told to say it

Magnus: Well I don't know what to say, but he promised he would come to check in on Lexi but I don't know what to do

Catarina: What do you mean

Magnus: I mean I can't do this on my own, I was okay with having a baby with Alec because we would be doing it together but doing this by myself is too much

Catarina: Well you will have me and Madzie to help you out

Magnus: Thanks Catarina

*2 Hours Later*

Catarina and Magnus had spent the past few hours together so Catarina could get to know Lexi and find out more about why Alec and Magnus broke up. Once Catarina left, Asmodeus showed up at Magnus's door along with a small lizard that happened to be Lorenzo.

Magnus: Dad, what are you doing here

Asmodeus: What a man can't come to see his son and granddaughter

Magnus: A man can, you can not, and whats with the lizard you know I hate reptiles

Asmodeus: You don't recognize your replacement

Magnus: You turned Lorenzo into a lizard, just come in

Asmodeus comes into the room and Magnus makes a reptile cage appear.

Magnus: Just put Lorenz... the lizard in the tank

Asmodeus puts Lorenzo into the tank.

Magnus: You can't do this dad, it's not right and if the Spiral Labrinth founds out about this they will take Lexi from me and banish me to Edom with you and I don't want that

Asmodeus: Nobody is gonna find out, trust me, my sweet boy

Magnus: When have I ever trusted you

Asmodeus: What happened to the little boy I taught

Magnus: I grew up, and became an adult

Asmodeus: You trusted me when you where a child

Magnus: Yes I did, but I am an adult, and more than that I am a mother and I don't plan to mess my child up

Asmodeus: When did I ever mess you up

Magnus: When I was 11 you tried to get me to take the throne from Lilith

Asmodeus: Okay, well that wasn't my proudest moment

Magnus: And when I turned 18 you did the same thing again

Asmodeus: They aren't my proudest moments but I am still your father

Lexi wakes up and starts to cry.

Magnus: Just don't do anything stupid, I have to take care of her

Magnus heads over to Alexa's bassinet and picks her up while she is crying.

Magnus: It's okay baby girl, Mommy's here

Asmodeus: When did you become so soft

Magnus: I have always been softer than you but when I had the baby I became softer

Asmodeus: My god, what did that Shadowhunter do to you

Magnus: Alexander didn't do anything but break my heart

Magnus holds Lexi and grabs the bottle from the fridge.

Asmodeus: So I was right about him being bad for you

Magnus: I don't care he is still in my life for Alexa's sake

Magnus sits down and feeds Alexa. While feeding Alexa, Asmodeus sits down next to the two of them.

Asmodeus: So when do you think her mark will show up

Magnus: I don't even know if she has a mark

Asmodeus: What do you mean, she has to be a warlock she was born to you

Magnus: And to Alexander who is a Shadowhunter, so she will have his blood too

Asmodeus: Okay, but which of you carried the baby and who created the sperm for the baby

Magnus: Why is that important

Asmodeus: It will show which person she gets more blood from

Magnus: Alec created the sperm for her and I carried her

Asmodeus: You couldn't have created the sperm

Magnus: Dad, I'm Intersexed and in Alec and my relationship I am the female, and Alec was the Male so no I couldn't create and sperm

Magnus finishes feeding her and burps her before rocking her to sleep. Once she falls asleep he places her back in the bassinet, when there is a knock on the door. Magnus goes to open the door.

Maryse: Magnus, thank god you're okay, but what are you doing here

Magnus: I would ask the same of you

Maryse: I was hoping Lorenzo was here

Magnus pushes Maryse back into the hallway.

Maryse: I just want to understand why Alec did what he did

Magnus looks at his father through the door and closes it with his magic.

Magnus: Then you should talk to him

Maryse: Wait... Your magic... You're "whole" again

Magnus: And that's to say what I was lesser without my magic

Maryse: Stop you know I love you, and despite what he might say to the contrary Alec does too, not three days ago, he came into my shop asking me for this

Maryse pulls the family ring out of her pocket and shows Magnus.

Magnus: Is the Lightwood family ring supposed to mean something to me

Maryse: It would if he had given it to you the other night at dinner when he planned to

Magnus looks at the ring and realizes what had happened.

Magnus: Oh, my god... then... why break my heart and leave me with our child

Maryse: Magnus, when exactly did your magic return

Magnus thinks back and realizes why Alec broke up with him. Magnus thanks Maryse and as she leaves Magnus heads back into the apartment and heads over by Alexa's bassinet making sure she stays asleep, while Asmodeus is getting a drink.

Magnus: Did you really think I wouldn't find out

Asmodeus: You can't blame a father for trying, can you

Magnus: Alec was gonna ask me to marry him, so the three of us could be a normal family

Asmodeus: How Mundane, you'll come to your senses once you get this all out of your system, anger is in our blood, after all

Magnus: We are nothing alike

Magnus steps away from his father as Asmodeus sets the drink down.

Asmodeus: I'm a royal, You're a royal, That's all that matters, Stop all this terrestrial nonsense and become who you are truly meant to be a prince at my side as I reign as King of all Edom

Magnus: THAT IS MY WORST NIGHTMARE!

Asmodeus: Your magic... our magic... is imperial when yours was added to mine, I was powerful enough to keep Lilith in her place, don't you realize how much stronger you could be in Edom, together we could control the entire Demonic Plane

Magnus: I should banish you back so Lilith can deal with you instead

Asmodeus: Don't you get it, I'll just keep finding my way back to you and my granddaughter

Magnus: True, that's why I won't be banishing you back to Edom

Magnus opens up a portal behind his father and ties him up in a magical rope.

Magnus: Do you know what happens when you enter a portal unconscious

Asmodeus: You get lost in Limbo

Magnus: Forever

Magnus knocks out Asmodeus and sends him through the portal and closes it after him.

Magnus: Goodbye, Father

*4 Hours Later*

Magnus called Catarina to come over and watch Lexi so he could go and talk with Alec. He headed to Idris and met up with Alec.

Alec: You can't be here

Magnus: I can't be anywhere else

Alec: No, you don't understand, We can't be together

Magnus: Asmodeus can't come between us and our family again, I know about the deal and why you did what you did, it's... it's okay I...

Alec pulls Magnus into a kiss. Clary and Jace come into the room as Alec and Magnus pull out of the kiss.

Alec: Where's the sword

Clary: Jonathan destroyed it

Jace: We can't close the rift

They all turn their heads as an explosion happens in the background.

Isabelle: This is it, isn't it

Magnus: My father told me about a way to increase my power

Clary: Enough to close the rift

Magnus: Potentially, yes... The strength I would need to pull it off... can only come from one place

Isabelle: Edom

Alec: Magnus, don't

Magnus: We can only fight them off for so long, The demons will keep coming back unless we seal the rift, It's the only way to keep you all safe including our little girl

Alec: Magnus, you can't, There's something I had to do, there's something I had to say

Magnus: I know, Needless to say... you forgot something back in New York

Magnus gives Alec the ring Maryse gave him and creates another copy of the ring.

Magnus: Alexander Gideon Lightwood... will you marry me

Alec takes his family ring from Magnus.

Alec: Only if you'll marry me too

Alec places the ring on Magnus's finger and Magnus puts his ring on Alec's finger. The two of them pull into a kiss but is stopped by an explosion in the background, leading Magnus to open a portal to Edom.

Alec: It's only Edom, you always come back

Magnus: Never thought I'd be a runaway groom

Magnus steps through the portal. Alec, Jace, Clary, and Izzy watch as the rift and all the demons disappear closes with tears in their eyes mostly in Alec's.

Jace: So Alec, what are you gonna do now

Alec: What I have to do, go home and take care of my daughter and find a way to get him back without reopening the rift

Isabelle: If you need anything let us know

Alec: I know

The four shadowhunters head back to New York. Izzy, Jace, and Clary head to the Institute while Alec heads back to the apartment to take care of Alexa. When he gets there Catarina is there.

Alec: Hey Catarina

Catarina: Hello Jerk

Alec: I guess I deserved that

Catarina: Of course you do you broke Magnus's heart

Alec: I know I did but I made up with him and...

Catarina: What did you do

Alec: We got engaged, what I planned to do before I was forced to break up with him

Catarina: Who forced you to break up with him

Alec: Who do you think, His father

Catarina: Why would Asmodeus force you to break up with him

Alec: I asked him to give Magnus his magic back, and the only condition was that I had to end my relationship

Catarina: But since Magnus banished Asmodeus to Limbo, you guys are free to be a normal family

Alec: Yeah

Catarina: Where is Magnus

Alec: There was a rift that Jonathan opened to Edom, so he went to Edom to close it and he can't come back

Catarina: Oh, My God, I can't believe he did that

Alec heads over to his daughter and picks her up while sitting on the couch with her.

Alec: Yeah, this is gonna be hard taking care of her alone

Catarina: Know you will know how Magnus felt when you left him

Alec: I guess I deserved that one

Catarina: I have to get back to Madzie, try and get Magnus back I already lost one best friend I can't lose another

Alec: I'll try my best, and say hi to Madzie for me

Catarina: Will do

Catarina leaves the apartment. Alec adjusts the way he was sitting on the couch and holds Lexi close.

Alec: Oh my sweet little girl, I messed up so badly I should have stayed with your mother and you, your mother is the love of my life and you are the joy of my life

Alexa is starting to fall asleep on Alec. Alec smiles at his little girl.

Alec: Oh, my sweet baby girl, you are so much like you mother, Alright let's get you to bed

Alec takes Lexi to her nursery and puts her to bed before heading to bed himself spending the next several hours up taking care of Alexa. 

Chapter Text

It's been several days since Magnus went to Edom, Alec has spent the past few days trying to find a way to get him back without opening the rift, he has been working in Magnus's study having Lexi in her bassinet next to him so he could keep an eye on her. Alec is going through every book he could think of when Maryse comes into the room.

Maryse: Have you eaten yet

Alec: No

Maryse: Sweetheart... It's okay to take some time to mourn, Magnus's bravery saved Alicante, his sacrifice is the only thing that allowed the Clave to successfully banish those remaining wraiths

Alec: Magnus is not dead, He is in Edom

Maryse: We both know that he can't ever come back home, the rift would re-open and all of Edom would come back with him

Alec: I'm going to find a way, and I'm going to get him back I have a wedding to plan and a baby to take care of

While Alec is trying to find a way to bring Magnus back and take care of Lexi, Magnus is still in Edom keeping the rift closed. Magnus is sitting on his father's throne and spinning his "engagement ring" to remember Alexander and Lexi.

Lilith: Someone had a busy night

Magnus: I'd say you were rude for neglecting to knock... but Dad didn't really seem to care much for doors... Or ceilings for that matter

Lilith: Well, with weather like this why bother

Magnus: While I do enjoy the chitchat

Magnus stands up from the throne.

Magnus: I do wonder, are you here to finish off what you started in my apartment

Lilith: Oh No, Let bygones be bygones, Mr. Bane

Magnus: And why would I believe a word you say, after you came into my home and showered me with lies

Lilith: I admit, the lengths a mother will go for her sick child can be... extreme, that's in the past, I'm here to talk about the future

Magnus: Hmm

Lilith: A future in which things between you and me are less... complicated... than they were between me and Asmodeus, After all, I'd still be your father's prisoner had you not trapped him in limbo

Magnus: So a cup of sugar than, and you'll be on your way

Lilith: I had something a little bit sweeter in mind

Magnus looks at Lilith weirdly.

Lilith: Just a tiny opening in the rift that you're holding closed just... large enough for me to fly through

Magnus: Mh-hmm and why would I ever do that

Lilith: So I can murder that matricidal nightmare I call a son, you of all people should understand family dysfunction, Magnus

Magnus: Mhm, and what's to stop your thirst for vengeance from extending past Jonathan to my friends and my child, hmm... To the rest of humanity

Lilith: My word

Magnus: Your "word"

Magnus starts to laugh.

Magnus: Right... That's enough to jeopardize everyone I love and cherish

Magnus walks away from Lilith and walks back to the throne.

Lilith: If your "friends" really cared about you, they wouldn't have let you leave, Are you sure they're really worth all that trouble

Magnus sits back down.

Magnus: You want me to open the rift for you, the answer is... No

Lilith throws her magic at Magnus, but Magnus blocks it sending Lilith flying back towards the door. Lilith gets back up pissed off at Magnus

Lilith: If I wasn't still recovering from that Daylighter's infernal Mark...

Magnus: But you are... Get the hell out of my house

Lilith leaves Magnus's "house".

*6 Hours Later*

Alec had found out about Asmodeus having turned Lorenzo into a lizard and got Catarina to change him back. Alec had also gotten Catarina to watch Alexa while the rest of them had gotten someone from the Vampire, Seelie, and warlock realm to come and help get them to Edom without dying.

Alec: Lorenzo, I thank you for coming on such short notice

Lorenzo: Thank you for restoring me, not that it changes anything between us. I'm here for my fellow warlocks, not you

Alec and Lorenzo walks over toward Simon and Meliorn.

Lorenzo: Ah, Meliorn envoy of the Queen

Meliron: Good evening, Mr. Rey

Lorenzo: And Mr. Lewis, Royal Blue himself, I can appreciate a good melody when I hear one

Simon: Thank you

Lorenzo: I see the representative for the wolves has yet to arrive, As my first act on the Downworld Council, I move that we start the proceeding without them, give a dog too much leash and they never learn to heel

Alec: This isn't actually a Council meeting

Clary and Jace walk into the room

Alec: I brought you here to help us save Magnus and my sister

Lorenzo: Help you save the warlock who stood there after finding out his father turned me into a reptile, left to dine on dead flies, May you precious boyfriend and mother of your child spend eternity in Edom, goodbye and good riddance

Lorenzo starts to leave as Alec grabs him by the arm.

Alec: If it weren't for me, you'd still be eating dead flies

Jace: This isn't just about Magnus

Simon: It's about Isabelle, too

Clary: And the fate of every other living creature on the planet

Alec: Help us, and you'll forever be known as "Lorenzo Rey: the warlock who help save the world"

*1 Hour Later*

Clary had put the alliance rune on all of the downworlders and shadowhunters going to Edom. Lorenzo had created a pentagram and sent them all down to Edom, they have all been separated when they entered Edom with the people they were bounded to. Lorenzo and Alec are just arriving at Asmodeus's old palace. Magnus is looking out the window thinking of Alec and Lexi back at home.

Alec: Magnus

Magnus thinks he is hearing things before turning around to see Alec.

Alec: Magnus

Magnus: Oh, Alexander

Magnus pulls Alec into a hug.

Magnus: I thought I'd never see you again

Magnus pulls away from the hug with his arms wrapped around Alec's neck.

Alec: I told you, It's only Edom, and we weren't going to let you fight Lilith alone

Magnus: "We"

Magnus sees Lorenzo behind Alec.

Lorenzo: I'm simply doing what any High Warlock would do

Magnus wraps his arms back around Alec's neck.

Magnus: And if we succeed, then what

Alec: Then I bring Lexi and we say here, with you, I'm never leaving you again

Clary comes in behind them as Alec and Magnus hear her footsteps.

Clary: Magnus

Magnus: Oh, Biscuit

Clary: You're Ok

Clary pulls Magnus into a hug. Simon comes into the room as Clary pulls away from the hug.

Simon: Jace and Meliorn are on their way, but where's Isabelle, Is she here

Magnus: Isabelle, Should she be

Alec: She isn't here

Magnus: The last person I saw before you guys showed up was 6 hours ago when Lilith tried to get me to open the rift for her before she got pissed off at my answer and left

Simon: Let's just hope Jace and Meliorn find her

Clary, Simon, and Lorenzo step to the side while Alec and Magnus are together.

Magnus: I missed you so much

Alec: I missed you too

Magnus: Whose got Lexi

Alec: I got Catarina to watch her after she changed Lorenzo back into a warlock and not a lizard

Magnus: I was supposed to do that before I left, dang it

Alec: I think that's what happens when you are busy with a baby and trying to deal with a breakup, which I am gonna regret with every waking moment

Magnus: Alexander, I understand why you did it, there is nothing for you to regret

Alec: I love you so much

Magnus: I love you too

*20 Minutes Later*

A portal opens up behind Isabelle, Jace, and Meliorn. Everyone comes up behind them.

Alec: We thought you'd be here

Simon: Izzy, you're ok

Clary: Is Meliorn, ok

Simon: What happened to him

Magnus: Where's Lilith

Isabelle: She's gone, She turned into this... enormous flying wraith

Jace: One of her wings sliced right through Meliorn

Magnus: We'll help

Lorenzo: I'll take care of the bleeding

Magnus and Lorenzo go over to Meliorn to heal him.

Clary: I've seen Lilith like that before, when she stole a sliver of my soul, She was strong enough to murder Ithuriel

Alec: Where is she

Jace: Coming for Magnus, She wants to reopen the rift

Lorenzo and Magnus finish healing Meliorn when they hear the sound of Lilith behind them in the air.

Magnus: Oh... It looks as if she's found me

Simon: Not a good look on her

Magnus: Stand back

Magnus and Lorenzo combined their magic to try and hit Lilith and when that doesn't work Alec tries to take her down with his bow and arrows which doesn't work either. Izzy is forced to use the heavenly fire that is coursing through her veins.

All: Izzy, no! Don't! No, stop!

Isabelle ends up killing Lilith but starts to burn up completely.

Clary: Isabelle

Alec: Isabelle

Magnus: Izzy

Jace: Izzy

Clary: We have to do something

Alec: Magnus, heal her

Magnus: I'm trying

Simon: Well, try harder

Lorenzo: It's not working

Magnus: The Heavenly Fire's stopping us

Clary: What If I put the Alliance Rune on Izzy, We could bond her to all of us, we could maybe absorb some of the flames

Lorenzo: How do we know it's not gonna fry us up, Remember we all have Demon blood now

Alec: We all have Nephilim blood too

Jace: Alec's right, Let's do this

Clary: Form a circle

Isabelle: It's too dangerous

Simon: Izzy, if it's the on;y way we're gonna save your life, we're all gonna die trying

Clary goes to put the rune on Magnus.

Magnus: What are you doing

Clary: We all need to be connected

Clary puts the rune on Magnus's wrist, causing pain in Magnus's wrist.

Clary: Izzy...

Clary puts the rune on Isabelle's left hand. As they all grab hands and they fire burns through their bodies before shooting out into Edom.

Alec: Thank the Angel you're ok

Simon: Thank Clary

Clary walks over to Jace, while Simon hugs Izzy.

Clary: It was all of us

Lorenzo: Isabelle might be ok but... it appears Edom is very much not

Buildings crash in the background.

Isabelle: What's going on

Magnus: It looks like the Heavenly Fire destroyed Lilith, but the chain reaction is destroying the entire realm

Jace: Then we should get out of here

Alec: Wait, Don't we have to close the rift

Magnus: There's no reason to close it if Edom doesn't exist anymore

Magnus opens up a portal back to New York

Magnus: Come on! Hurry!

Jace: Let's go!

Everyone starts to head through the portal.

Alec: Go, go, go, go!

Magnus: Come on!

Everyone heads through the portal with Alec and Magnus being the last ones through. They all arrive back in New York and they all head back to their homes. Alec and Magnus get home to Catarina taking care of Alexa.

Alec: Hey Catarina, We're back

Catarina: Hey Alec

Catarina looks at them to see Magnus is there.

Catarina: Magnus, Thank god you're okay

Catarina pulls Magnus into a tight hug.

Magnus: I'm fine, thank you for watching Lexi

Catarina: No problem

Catarina pulls away from the hug.

Catarina: Also Alec, I'm sorry for calling you a jerk before

Alec: It's okay, I did deserve it

Catarina: Alright, I have to get home to Madzie, Alec you take care of him

Alec: I will

Catarina leaves the apartment leaving Magnus and Alec alone with their baby girl.

Magnus: Why did Catarina call you a jerk

Alec: Because I had broken your heart, and she didn't know we made up and gotten engaged

Magnus: Oh, I want to know why she always does things like that

Alec: I think it's because she is your best friend and she hates to see you get hurt

Magnus: I bet

Alec and Magnus head into their bedroom and get undressed and then get under the covers of the bed with Lexi who was still asleep resting on Magnus. Magnus just looks at their baby girl and smiles at her, while Alec just looks at Magnus.

Magnus: What are you staring at

Alec: It's just, it's nice to see you so happy

Magnus: This is that happiest I've ever been in my entire life and it's all because of you

Magnus kisses Alec.

Alec: I love you both so much

Magnus: I love you too, I can't wait to marry you

Alec: I can't wait either

Alec pulls Magnus and Lexi close to him and looks at the two of them with a smile on his face. Alec kisses Magnus on the head as Magnus rests his head on Alec's shoulder before the three of them fall asleep together.

*Later that Night*

Alec and Magnus planned their wedding for that night having Jace and Catarina stand with them, Brother Zachariah to do the ceremony, and Madzie as the flower girl. Magnus had invited Lorenzo to the wedding and asked him to hold Alexa during the ceremony which he gladly agreed to after becoming friends with Magnus after everything he did for Magnus and his friends. Robert had walked down with Alec while Magnus walked down with Maryse. Magnus thanked Maryse and stood with Alec and the pair said their vows.

Alec: The love I have for you... is a love that knows no bound. In times of joy as well as sadness...

Magnus: In sickness and health...

Alec: I will love you as me equal...

Magnus: And protect you above all else

Alec: I will share with you my truest feelings...

Magnus: And when you speak, I will listen

Alec: I will catch you when you fall

Magnus: And when you soar... I will help you reach your greatest heights

Alec: Magnus Bane

Magnus: Alexander Gideon Lightwood

Magnus & Alec: I am and I will always be your loving husband

Brother Zachariah: It is my honor to pronounce you one

Alec and Magnus pull into a kiss. After the kiss, they walk back out and they all head to the reception. They all decided to enjoy the fun night before they have to go back to what they normally do. Everybody is dancing together, Lorenzo is dancing with Madzie when Underhill comes over.

Lorenzo: Look at you, you have got some moves

Underhill: Well, she's not the only who's got some moves

Lorenzo: A Shadowhunter complimenting a warlock

Underhill: Andrew Underhill

Lorenzo: Lorenzo Rey

Underhill: It's a pleasure

The two smile at each other as Alec and Magnus smile at them.

Alec: Looks like, It's gonna happen all over again

Magnus: I guess it must be fate for a Shadowhunter and The High Warlock of Brooklyn to get together

Alec: Yeah

Magnus is holding Lexi when Alec's family comes over to the two of them.

Max: So, what do I call you

Magnus: Whatever you want, Max

Max: How about... Brother

Magnus: Sounds like a plan

Magnus and Max smile.

Maryse: Since we're all together... there's something I wanted to tell you, I'll admit it's a bit awkward, It's about Luke...

Isabelle: That you guys are a thing

Alec: Uh, yeah... It's been very obvious

Maryse: It has

Jace: Yeah, we think it's great

Clary: We all do

Maryse: I'm so happy you feel that way

Clary: Maryse, you and Luke are... You're meant for each other

Maryse: Thank you, That means a lot, Clary

Maryse takes Clary by the hand to talk with her.

Maryse: Clary, I want you to know... no one will ever replace your mom in Luke's eyes

Clary and Maryse smile at each other.

Clary: Maryse, um... do you think the Angels are capable of forgiveness

Maryse: What's this about, Jonathan, Well... As my mother used to say... the Angels work in mysterious ways, I suppose anything is possible

Jace cuts in to dance with Clary and they spend the time just dancing before Clary leaves and forgets all of her memories. The night goes on and at the end of the night Alec, Magnus, and Lexi head home. Alec opens the door to the apartment and they all walk in.

Magnus: As much as I love a party, I am glad to be home

Alec: I am too

Magnus: Let's get this little one to bed

Alec: Yes let's and then let's get to bed ourselves, and you know what I mean

Magnus smiles at his husband.

Magnus: Sounds great

Magnus and Alec take the baby to her nursery and head to bed themselves. After several hours to themselves, they finally are just laying in bed together.

Alec: This has been the best day of my life

Magnus: Mine too, and we still have more adventures to come

Alec: Yes we do

Alec and Magnus spend the rest of the night together.

*A Year Later*

It's been a year since Alec and Magnus had gotten married and everything has changed for them. They had moved to Alicante when Alec got the opportunity to work for the Clave, so of course, Magnus and Lexi went with him. Also within the year Alec became the inquisitor and was able to get Downworlders and Shadowhunters working side by side, and when that happened Alec made Magnus the High Warlock of Alicante, so Magnus would spend his days working with Institutes and Warlocks all over the world as well as taking care of Lexi who was now a little bit more than a year old. Alec is working in his office when Luke knocks on the door.

Alec: Come in

Luke comes into the office.

Luke: Mr. Inquisitor

Alec looks up to see Luke and smiles.

Alec: How was Brazil

Luke: Humid

Alec: My mother hates humidity

Luke: Oh, but she loves the beaches, Have you ever seen your mom on a paddleboard, She is a vision

Alec: Luke... thank you

Luke: Yeah, You know, I never thought I'd see the day... deputized Downworlders, working hand in hand with Shadowhunters, It's amazing

Alec: The Clave had come a long way

Luke: Thanks to you

Alec: I had a little help

Alec finishes up in the office and heads back home to his husband and darling baby girl. At the apartment, Magnus is on the phone with a head of an Institute while keeping an eye on Lexi who was sleeping in the bassinet, even though she sleeps in a crib at night it is easier to keep an eye on her when she is napping and Magnus is still working.

Magnus: Hmm... Wards repair, Yeah, I'm pretty booked up, but... I think I might be able to fit something in, Everyone's been recalibrating their wards lately to allow for Downworlders, Ah... huh, How about Tuesday at 3 PM, See you then, sir.

Magnus fills it in his appointment book and hangs the phone up as Alec comes in.

Alec: How is the High Warlock of Alicante

Magnus: Mm, much better now that you're here

Alec: Thirsty

Magnus: You read my mind

Magnus's phone keeps buzzing on the table.

Alec: Busier than ever, I see

Magnus: It's been ringing off the hook like that all day, But I have much better things to do

Magnus puts his book away as Alec gives Magnus a drink which he takes.

Alec: To us

Magnus: To us

Both Alec and Magnus take a drink and they sit down on the couch next to their baby girl.

Alec: She is so peaceful

Magnus: Yeah she is

Alec: I still can't believe we made this little one a little more than a year ago

Magnus: I know it still feels like I found out that we were having her yesterday

Alec: It feels like I just found out that you lost your magic

Magnus: Yeah, you know what Alexander

Alec: What's that

Magnus: It was worth every second of it

Alec: Really

Magnus: Yes because I had you, and If I had to do it all over again I would because I would have you and our perfect little girl

Alec: She takes after you, perfect in every way

Alec kisses Magnus very passionately.

Alec: Happy Anniversary Mags

Magnus: Happy Anniversary my darling Alexander

Alec and Magnus spend the rest of their anniversary together knowing that they will have many more adventures and anniversaries to come. A few years later Alec and Magnus give birth to another child, a boy that they named Rafael Santiago after Magnus's friend who was like a son to him, and 5 years after that they have a 3rd and finally child which was another son that they named Max after Alec's youngest brother. 

Chapter Text

It is December 8th, Magnus's Birthday. Today Alec had gotten off to celebrate with his husband because he knew that it was gonna be one of the last few days that he and Magnus could spend time alone because he and Magnus would be having a baby girl in less than 2 weeks time. Last week Alec went out with Jace and picked up his gift for Magnus while Jace was trying to get advice about how to propose to Clary. Alec and Magnus were going to spend the entire day together, Alec got up early to make breakfast for Magnus. Alec came back into the bedroom to his husband who is waking up.

*December 8th; 10:00 AM*

Alec: Morning Babe

Magnus: Morning Sweetheart

Alec: I thought you might want something to eat

Magnus: Aw thank you so much, Alexander

Alec: I figured you would like it

Magnus: Aren't you supposed to be at the Institute now

Alec: I took off for today to celebrate your birthday

Magnus: Such a sweetheart

Alec and Magnus sat together on the bed eating breakfast. Alec and Magnus spend the entire day watching movies and cuddling together.

*December 8th; 11:00 PM *

At the end of the day, Alec and Magnus are getting ready for bed. While Magnus is in the bathroom removing his make up Alec grabs the necklace from his bag, once Magnus comes back into the bedroom he sees his husband standing there.

Magnus: Hey, what are you doing

Alec: I have one more thing for you

Magnus: What is it

Alec: This...

Alec hands Magnus the necklace box.

Magnus: What is this

Alec: Just open it

Magnus opens the box to see the necklace.

Magnus: Alexander this is beautiful

Alec: Just like you, It's got all of our birthstones in it

Magnus: All of us

Alec: Yeah, mine, yours, and our little girl's

Magnus: That's so sweet of you

Magnus kisses Alec.

Alec: Alright, let's get some sleep

Magnus: Let's hope I can sleep, your daughter is pressing into my ribs

Alec: Well if anything happens I will be right next to you

Magnus: I know

Magnus kisses Alec one more time before getting into bed and falling asleep.

*December 9th; 2:25 AM*

It's 2:25 in the morning when Magnus gets up feeling pressure and a harder style of the contractions then he had been having the past few months. Magnus got up and headed into the bathroom, feeling the contractions hit harder and harder before his water broke when Alec woke up noticing his husband was no longer in bed with him. Magnus started to come out of the bathroom.

Alec: Hey Babe are you okay

Magnus: No, I'm not

Alec: What is it

Magnus: It's just that the contractions are getting harder and also...

Alec: Your water broke

Magnus: Yeah, it did

Alec: Alright let's get you to the hospital then

Magnus: Okay

*December 9th; 3:00 AM*

Magnus and Alec made it to the hospital and had been waiting for the doctor to come in and check on Magnus's progression. Magnus could tell that he was pretty far along from the pressure he was feeling.

Alec: How are you feeling

Magnus: There is a lot of pressure but besides that okay

Alec: I wish there was something I could do for you

Magnus: Just you being here is enough

Dr. Smith: Hey Magnus

Magnus: Hey Dr. Smith

Dr. Smith: Hey Alec

Alec: Hey Doc

Dr. Smith: So I hear you are planning on having a baby today

Magnus: Normally I would laugh at that, but I am feeling a lot of pressure so you aren't gonna get a laugh out of me today

Dr. Smith: Alright let's see how far you are

Dr. Smith checks to see how far Magnus is.

Dr. Smith: I think you are the quickest patient ever to be this far along

Alec: How far along is he

Dr. Smith: 9 centimeters, Alright I am gonna go et the stuff we need to deliver this baby

Magnus: Okay

Dr. Smith leaves the room and goes to get the stuff to set up for the delivery of the baby.

Alec: So, you ready to deliver our little girl

Magnus: Yeah, I am I can't wait to hold her and to have my body back

Alec: Your body is perfect no matter what happens to it

Magnus: You are so sweet

*December 9th; 3:13 AM*

Dr. Smith comes back in with a nurse to help deliver the baby.

Dr. Smith: Alright Magnus you ready to do this

Magnus: Ready as I'll ever be

Dr. Smith: Alright let's do this

Dr. Smith gets everything set up and has everything they need for when the baby comes.

Dr. Smith: Alright Magnus on the next contraction I want you to start pushing

Magnus: Okay

Alec takes Magnus's hand when Magnus has a contraction he starts to push.

Magnus: Ow Ow Ow

*45 Minutes Later*

Dr. Smith: Alright Magnus the next contraction is gonna be along in a minute

Alec: You are doing so good

Magnus: I don't know if I can keep doing this

Alec: You can, I know you can

Magnus smiles at Alec and continues to push.

Magnus: Ow, God

Dr. Smith: Alright, one more push

Magnus: Ow, Ow, Ow

After the final push, the baby is out and they have Alec cut the cord. Dr. Smith takes the baby to get cleaned up.

Alec: You did it, I am so proud of you

Alec kisses Magnus's head.

Magnus: We did it, we have our baby girl

Dr. Smith: Here you go your baby girl

Dr. Smith hands Magnus the baby.

Magnus: Thank you, Dr. Smith

Dr. Smith: You're welcome, make sure you keep me updated

Alec: We will

Dr. Smith: Alright, you guys stay safe

Magnus: You too

Dr. Smith leaves Magnus and Alec alone with their baby girl. Alec smiles at his husband and their brand new baby girl.

Magnus: What's up with you

Alec: Nothing at all, I'm just happy that's all

Magnus: I love you and our baby girl

Magnus kisses Alec.

Alec: I love you both so much, It's funny that both of my loves were born a day apart yet years apart

Magnus: So, do we still want to keep the name we choose

Alec: Yeah, It will fit her well

Magnus: Yes it will

Magnus and Alec name their baby girl Savannah Rose. Around Noon that day their family and Magnus's best friends show up to meet her for the first time. Magnus, Alec, and Savannah spend the next 4 days in the hospital before going home. 

Chapter Text

Alec and Magnus have been together for over a year now and they are spending every moment they can together. Magnus has 4 siblings that love Alec and they love seeing Magnus so happy. The only problem is that Magnus had been hiding something from Alec about his and his sibling's past. Today Alec was working in his office about to head home when the Inquisitor arrives in his office to tell him about something.

Inquisitor: Mr. Lightwood can I talk with you for a second 

Alec: Sure come on in 

The Inquisitor comes into the office and sits down on a chair. 

Alec: What's up 

Inquisitor: Well we were going through the records and we noticed that the New York Institute has a family that never checked with Clave and we need to know if the Institute has a death record for any of them

Alec: I can take a look in the morning

Inquisitor: Great here is what we have on them

The Inquisitor hands Alec a file on the family. Alec takes a quick glance at the file and as the Inquisitor leaves Alec notices something. 

Alec: Excuse me Inquisitor this says the family disappeared 

Inquisitor: They did

Alec: Then why would you think the Institue have a death record if they disappeared

Inquisitor: We think there might be something that leads up to their disappearance

Alec: Alright I'll look In the morning

Inquisitor: Good

The Inquisitor leaves the office. After the Inquisitor leaves Alec grabs his stuff and heads to Magnus's place.

*10 Minutes Later*

After a ten-minute walk from the institute to the apartment, Alec finally arrives at the apartment and walks into the apartment.

Magnus: Hey Alexander

Alec: Hey Mags

Magnus comes over and kisses Alec. 

Magnus: Why are you so tense

Alec: The inquisitor wants me to find death records on a family that disappeared over 300 plus years ago

Magnus: Really, Downworlder or Shadowhunter

Alec: I don't know I haven't looked that closely into it yet

Magnus: Well If anyone will find something on them it will be you

Alec: Let's hope so 

Alec sits down on the couch opening the file looking at the family members' names noticing something about the names and dates of birth. 

Alec: Hey Magnus can I talk to you about something 

Magnus: Yeah sure

Magnus comes over and sits down on the couch. 

Magnus: What's up 

Alec: Did you ever change your name either first or last

Magnus: Change my name, why would I do that 

Alec: Well this family has the exact same names and dates of birth as you and your siblings except one 

Magnus: Really 

Alec: Magnus just tell me the truth, is this you and your family 

Alec sets the file down on the table.

Magnus: Alright, yes it is my family 

Alec: Why didn't you tell me 

Magnus: Because I knew if they found out about us then the person who was coming after us would find us and kill us 

Alec: Magnus you know I would have protected you 

Magnus: I know I was just scared 

Alec: So you changed your name 

Magnus: I changed my name and my sex 

Alec: You're transgender

Magnus: No I have always been Intersexed but I went from using female pronouns to using male pronouns

Alec: Alright, but what is your guys' relationship with the New York Institute

Magnus: We're crossbreeds, I never wanted you to know because most people think that we are weird because of it, just like people would be scared at my cat eyes

Alec: You know you have to tell the Clave about this

Magnus: Yeah, I know 

Alec kisses Magnus. 

Alec: At least I don't have to go looking for death records

Magnus: Yeah that's true, cause we never died 

Alec: Nope, Let's go and get some sleep 

Alec and Magnus head to their room to get sleep for the next morning. 

*The Next Morning*

In the morning Alec woke up earlier than Magnus so he could call the Inquisitor to tell him that he has information on the family that disappeared and that if he wanted to know about the information to come to the Institute. After making the call to the Inquisitor he heads back to the bedroom so he can get ready for the day. 

*20 Minutes Later*

After Alec got out of the shower and got dressed he noticed that Magnus had woken up while he was getting dressed.

Alec: Hey, how did you sleep 

Magnus: Fine, how long have you been up 

Alec: About half an hour 

Magnus: Why didn't you wake me 

Alec: Cause I figured you'd want to sleep

Magnus: You are so sweet you know that

Alec: I would do anything for the man I love 

Magnus: I guess I should call my siblings and have them meet us at the Institute 

Alec: Alright, you know there is nothing to worry about I will be with you the entire time 

Manus: I know but I never thought I would be sharing this part of my life with anybody 

Alec: Well better get it out now than never

Magnus: True, but if the guy who was hunting my family ends up killing me I am gonna hunt you till the day you die

Alec: You'll be fine, I am always gonna be here for you no matter what, cause I love you so much 

Magnus: I love you too 

Alec sits down next to Magnus on the bed and kisses him. 

Alec: So before we tell the Clave about your family, you need to tell me something first

Magnus: Oh No, what's that 

Alec: What's your birth name 

Magnus: I can't tell you, it's too embarrassing for me 

Alec: Well it's either tell me now or you can tell me in a room full of fellow Shadowhunters, that's your choice

Magnus: Fine I'll tell you 

Alec: Thank you, go on tell me

Magnus: My full name was Margaret Anna Lynnwood

Alec: Lynnwood, wait wasn't that the name of the very first Head of the Indonesian Institute

Magnus: Yeah, James Lynnwood, He is... was my maternal grandfather

Alec: WOW, so where did the name Bane come from if it wasn't in your family's actual last name

Magnus: It was the last name our father had used when he would be in the mundane world, so we decided to use it so nobody would question our species

Alec: So you went from Margaret Lynnwood to Magnus Bane and changed your sex from female to male is there anything else you should tell me before we tell the Clave 

Magnus: Yeah there is 

Alec: And what's that 

Magnus: Besides the glamour, I have over my eyes to hide my mark, I wear a total body glamour to hide my female body and runes

Alec: Okay, well I have no problem with that and when we get home tonight I want you to drop all of the glammors so I can see what my boyfriend looks like without all of the glammors

Magnus: Are you sure you want to do that 

Alec: Yes I want to see what you actually look like

Magnus: Alright, I'll do it but just for you I don't want anyone else to know what I look like

Alec: That's fair 

Alec kisses Magnus again. 

Magnus: Alright let me go get a shower and get dressed

Alec: Alright, I'll wait for you in the living room

Magnus: Okay sounds good

Magnus gets out of bed and heads to the bathroom

Magnus: You know it's too bad you already got a shower

Alec: Why is that

Magnus: Cause I was gonna have you join me instead of waiting for me, but there isn't much of a point if you already got one

Alec gets up from the bed and comes over to where Magnus is and kisses him.

Alec: Has that ever stopped me before

Magnus: No

Alec pushes Magnus into the bathroom and closes the door behind them.

*1 Hour Later*

After an hour Alec and Magnus finally arrive at the Institute along with Magnus's 4 siblings. They head into Alec's office to wait for the Inquisitor to arrive. Magnus's siblings are not happy that Magnus told Alec about their actual identities.

Magnus: Glad you guys could get over here so soon

Jason Bane: Yeah sure you are

Magnus: What does that mean

Eliza Bane: We promised to never tell anyone who we actually are but you just had to blab who we actually are

Magnus: I didn't want to tell them...

Mary-ann Bane: Then why did you tell them

Magnus: I'm gonna let Alec explain this one

Kyle Bane: Go on

Alec: The Inquisitor was going through a bunch of files and noticed that they never had any records on one family, in particular, the file stated that the family had disappeared in the 1600s, so when I got home that night I looked into the file and noticed that all of your guys birthdays, looks, and first names line up with those of the family members who disappeared so I confronted Magnus about it before heading to bed with him last night

Eliza: So now we have to tell the Inquisitor the truth about our identities

Magnus: Yes and if you guys don't tell the truth I will be rating you out to all of your partners

Mary-ann: You wouldn't dare

Magnus: Oh I would dare

Jason: You don't have the guts to do it

Magnus: I have the same amount of guts that Kyle has, and Kyle has been an uncaught drug dealer for over 60 years now

Kyle: WOW throw me under the bus why don't you

Eliza: Kyle everyone in this room knows you are a drug dealer, even Alec knows

Alec: Yeah I do 

Kyle: Damn I thought I was careful of that

Jason: You are only careful of the cops, but you aren't careful around anyone else

Magnus: Just make sure you don't try dealing drugs to any Council members or Alec with be sending you to the Clave and you will be in a Clave jail cell

Kyle: It can't worse than a mundane jail cell

Alec: Don't play with fire there Kyle

Kyle: Why not

Magnus: Because someone will gladly throw you into a Clave jail cell so you can see how it feels

Alec: I think that if the Inquisitor finds out he would do that when he gets here

Magnus: Let's worry about one thing at a time

Alec: Alright besides the big fact about your "Birth Species" is there anything else that the Clave doesn't know about that they should know about

Jason: Well there's the fact that our grandfather was the original head of the Indonesian Institute

Eliza: I think they will figure that out when they find out who we are

Jason: Do you really have to sass me right now

Eliza: Yes I do

Magnus: I don't blame her for sassing you, also she has been sassing you since the day she was born

Eliza: I am gonna sass you too, you got us into this mess

Alec: Alright you three I don't need a sibling fight starting I get enough of that with my siblings

Magnus: Speaking of your siblings, they aren't gonna find out about this right because we have been hiding this for so long I really don't want anybody else to know about it

Alec: No my siblings won't be told about anything unless Isabelle snoops into the files or eavesdrops on the conversation

Magnus: Why don't we just get the group in here just so we don't have to worry about it

Alec: Alright

Alec steps out of the room and heads down the hall to grab Izzy, Jace, Clary, and Simon and brings them back into the room.

Alec: Alright have a seat

Jace: What did we do now

Magnus: Nothing Blondy but we just want you in the room when we talk to the Inquisitor so we don't have to worry about you eavesdropping or us having to explain this twice

Simon: Okay that is fair but who are the others

Simon says references Magnus' siblings.

Magnus: They are my twin brother and younger siblings

Clary: I thought you were an only child

Jason: I wish we all were

Magnus: Hey don't start that Jason, I do not complain about you to your boyfriend and his family don't you do it to mine

Jason: Yeah, yeah

*5 Minutes Later*

After 5 minutes the Inquisitor finally arrives.

Inquisitor: Mister Lightwood you wanted to see me

Alec: Yes, you asked me to find out about the family that disappeared

Inquisitor: Yes did you find out anything

Alec: I did but you might want to sit down for this

The Inquisitor takes a seat in a chair across from Alec and Magnus.

Alec: Well it turns out the Lynnwoods never died or disappeared, it turns out they changed their names and left the Clave behind due to a stalking

Inquisitor: And you found this how

Alec: I think it's best if Magnus explains this part

Inquisitor: Mr. Bane, how did you find this out

Magnus: Well, My family and I used to be part of the Clave when we were teenagers because our maternal grandfather was the first head of the Indonesian Institute many years ago

Izzy: Wait does that mean, Magnus and his siblings are...

Magnus: Yes Jason, Elizabeth, Kyle, Mary-ann, and I are the Lynnwood's

Inquisitor: WOW I didn't think that would ever happen, so you guys are crossbreeds then

Jason: Isn't that obvious

Elizabeth: Jason don't start

Inquisitor: The only thing that doesn't add up is the oldest Lynnwood was a daughter, not a son

Jace: Yeah how does that add up

Magnus: Alright I was born Intersexed but my mother and stepfather raised me a female so when I came to the states to get away from our stalker I switched to using male pronouns and besides changing just my last name I changed my full name

Inquisitor: So you are Margaret Lynnwood

Magnus: Yes I am

Inquisitor: Alright, I will have to change your guys' records, which includes changing your guys' names in the systems

Jason: I think that's fine but you might need to keep Magnus's name as Magnus because everyone knows him that way

Inquisitor: Well we can put it in his file as an alternate name we can do that with all of you guys

Mary-ann: That's a good idea this way we are still known as our current selves and as our birth selves

Inquisitor: Alright, I'll head back to Idris and get this taken care of, thank you for finding this information out Mr. Lightwood

Alec: No problem

The Inquisitor leaves Alec's office and heads back to Idris.

Jason: Well that was interesting

Jace: You can say that, I learned more about Magnus today than I have since I've met him

Magnus: And there is still a whole lot you don't know about me

Alec: Alright, why don't we all head home and relax from the day

Magnus: Sounds like a great idea

Kyle: Yeah, I think we all need to relax

After everything that happened that afternoon, everyone went home and relaxed.

*Later that Night*

Throughout the rest of the day, Alec and Magnus got to relax and not have to worry about anything. At the end of the day, Magnus and Alec are getting for bed and Magnus has still not dropped his full-body glamour.

Magnus: I don't know how I am gonna sleep with everything that has gone on today

Alec: Me either, I want to talk to you

Magnus: What's up

Alec: When are you gonna drop your glamour

Magnus: Which one

Alec: The full-body one

Magnus: I just am worried that you will leave me for the way I do look

Alec: I would never do that, just because you look one way doesn't mean I love you because of the way you look but because of who you are on the inside

Magnus: Alright I guess I'll drop the glamour

Magnus drops the full-body glamour revealing to Alec what he actually looked like with runes and all.

Magnus: This is what I look like

Alec: You look beautiful but you always looked beautiful

Magnus: Thank you so much baby, now let me put the glamour back on and we can head to bed

Alec: Leave the glamour off in don't mind you looking like this

Magnus: But you are gay and I know you would never sleep with a woman

Alec: But you aren't just any woman, you are the love of my life

Magnus: Aww you are the sweetest

Alec and Magnus get into bed and fall asleep in each other's arms and sleep throughout the night and from then on Magnus will drop the glamour when around the house with Alec. 

Chapter Text

The grand halls of the Lightwood Palace glitter with opulence. Chandeliers cast a warm glow on golden walls adorned with tapestries depicting legendary battles. Alexander Lightwood, Crown Prince and alpha stands near a tall window, his sharp blue eyes fixed on the gardens below.

Alec: (mutters to himself) An arranged marriage. Of course.

He turns away from the window, pacing the room. His ceremonial armor gleams on a mannequin nearby, a constant reminder of his duty.

Alec: (sighs) They could have at least told me who my bride is.

A knock at the door interrupts his thoughts. His sister Isabelle enters, dressed in her own regal finery, her dark eyes glinting with mischief.

Isabelle: (teasing) Still brooding, Alec? You'll scare your omega away before you even meet them.

Alec: (glares playfully) I'm not brooding. I just... I don't see why it has to be a secret.

Isabelle: Tradition, brother. You know how Mother and Father are. But... (smirks) maybe you'll like this one.

Alec: (sighs) Let's hope.

She pats his shoulder before leaving, her laughter trailing behind her. Alec shakes his head, his nerves tangling tighter with every passing moment. As the sunlight dances on the surface of the river as Magnus Bane sits on the bank, his calloused hands deftly stitching intricate patterns into a crimson fabric. His amber eyes, flecked with gold, sparkle with quiet focus, but there's a pensive edge to his expression.

Magnus: (to himself) Another order for the nobles. At least they pay well.

A child from the village bounds up to him, giggling.

Child: Magnus! Mama says your work is magic!

Magnus: (grinning) And your mama is a wise woman. Now, off you go, troublemaker.

The child runs off, leaving Magnus alone with his thoughts. He gazes at the palace in the distance, the spires gleaming against the blue sky.

Magnus: (softly) I wonder if he still remembers me...

He runs his fingers over the stitching, the design a subconscious echo of memories he's held close to his heart. Weeks later the grand hall buzzes with anticipation. Nobles in extravagant attire fill the space, their whispers echoing under the vaulted ceilings. Alec stands at the altar, his ceremonial armor pristine and imposing. Despite his composed exterior, his heart pounds relentlessly.

Alec: (murmurs) Who will it be?

The grand doors creak open. The room falls silent as Magnus steps inside, dressed in a flowing crimson robe embroidered with gold. His kohl-lined eyes widen as they lock onto Alec's. Recognition blooms like a shockwave between them.

Magnus: (whispers) Alec?

Alec: (stunned) Magnus?

The murmurs ripple through the crowd. Magnus hesitates, his steps faltering. Alec's jaw tightens, his initial shock giving way to something softer—wonder, perhaps. The priest clears his throat, commanding attention.

Priest: Do you, Alexander Lightwood, take this omega to be your bonded mate?

Alec's gaze softens further, his voice steady and resolute.

Alec: I do.

Priest: And do you, Magnus Bane, take this alpha to be your bonded mate?

Magnus swallows hard. He glances at Alec, a thousand unspoken words passing between them. Slowly, he nods, his voice barely above a whisper.

Magnus: I do.

As the ceremony concludes, their hands brush briefly. It's the first touch they've shared in years, and it feels like a promise. A few weeks after the wedding the tension in the royal chambers has softened over time, replaced by cautious curiosity. Alec and Magnus sit on opposite sides of a grand bed, the air between them humming with unsaid words.

Magnus: (breaking the silence) I never thought my life would lead me here. To you.

Alec: (leans forward) I never stopped thinking about you, Magnus. Even when I couldn't say it. Maybe this was always meant to be.

Magnus looks away, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his robe. A small, hesitant smile tugs at his lips.

Magnus: You make it sound so simple.

Alec: (gently) It can be. If we let it.

Their eyes meet, and for the first time in weeks, they both feel a flicker of hope knowing just how much fun their life will be throughout their lives. Several months into their marriage the royal chambers are dimly lit, the curtains drawn to create a cocoon of privacy. Magnus lies sprawled on the bed, his skin flushed and his breaths shallow. The telltale signs of an omega's heat have taken hold, leaving him vulnerable.

Magnus: (panting) Alec... please...

Alec stands at the doorway, his expression torn between concern and undeniable instinct. He steps closer, his movements slow and deliberate.

Alec: (softly) Are you sure? I don't want to hurt you.

Magnus reaches out, his fingers trembling. The bond between them hums, electric and unyielding.

Magnus: (whispers) I need you... now.

Alec's resolve breaks. He climbs onto the bed, his touch gentle as he presses a kiss to Magnus's temple.

Alec: (firmly) Then I'll take care of you.

As their minds completely fade to black, the air thick with their shared vulnerability and trust. Months later the gardens are alive with color, flowers in full bloom swaying gently in the breeze. Magnus sits on a carved stone bench, his hands resting protectively over his growing belly. Alec approaches, balancing a tray of tea with uncharacteristic care.

Alec: You should be resting.

Magnus: (smirking) I am resting. You're just paranoid.

Alec sets the tray down and sits beside him, his expression equal parts exasperation and adoration.

Alec: Can you blame me? You're carrying our daughter.

Magnus's smirk softens into a genuine smile. He places his hand over Alec's, their fingers interlocking.

Magnus: We'll be fine. You and me. Always.

The sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled patterns over their joined hands. Unknownst to Alec and Magnus, Maryse Lightwood had ended up stepping down from his role as Queen to allow for Alec and Magnus to take over and restore the kingdom to the way it was before her late Husband had taken over. Weeks after Maryse stepped down the grand hall was transformed into a vision of gold and silver, banners bearing the Lightwood crest hanging high above. Alec stands before the throne, the crown of the kingdom held in Isabelle's hands.

Isabelle: (smiling) Kneel, Alexander Lightwood.

Alec kneels, his head bowed. Isabelle places the crown on his head, the weight of it both physical and symbolic.

Isabelle: Rise, King Alexander.

The hall erupts into applause. Magnus watches from the side, his hands resting on his belly, pride shining in his eyes. Moments later, he steps forward, his own coronation awaiting.

Priest: Magnus Bane, you are hereby crowned as Consort, equal in all ways to the King.

The crown is placed on Magnus's head, the cheers renewing with fervor. Alec reaches for his hand, their fingers intertwining as they face the crowd together.

Alec: (softly to Magnus) Together, always.

Magnus: (smiling) Always.

Within the next few days after the coronation, the cries of a newborn fill the room, a sound both startling and miraculous. Alec cradles the baby with awe, his hands surprisingly gentle for a warrior. Magnus watches from the bed, exhaustion written on his face but overshadowed by a radiant glow.

Alec: (softly) She has your eyes.

Magnus: (smiling) And your stubborn hair.

Alec chuckles, brushing a finger over the baby's soft cheek. The tiny girl blinks up at him, her gaze curious and unwavering despite her fragility. Alec's heart swells in a way he never thought possible.

Alec: (whispers) She's perfect.

Magnus shifts slightly, wincing but smiling through the exhaustion. Alec notices and quickly moves to sit beside him on the bed, carefully placing the baby in Magnus's arms.

Magnus: (teasing) Careful, your majesty. She'll grow up spoiled if you keep looking at her like that.

Alec: (grinning) She's already spoiled. And she's earned every bit of it.

Magnus chuckles softly, his free hand reaching for Alec's. Their fingers entwine as they gaze at their daughter, a tangible reminder of the love they've built despite every obstacle.

Magnus: What should we name her?

Alec leans closer, resting his head against Magnus's.

Alec: Something strong. Something that honors both our lives and where we've come from.

Magnus's eyes glisten as he considers this. Finally, he smiles, pressing a kiss to the baby's forehead.

Magnus: (softly) Layla. It means "night beauty." Like the stars, we used to watch together as children.

Alec's lips curve into a tender smile, his heart full.

Alec: Layla Lightwood-Bane. It's perfect.

The baby stirs, her tiny fingers curling as if reaching for the warmth of her parents' love. The moment feels infinite, a cornerstone in the family they've created.

The banquet hall is filled with music and laughter, the kingdom's finest celebrating the birth of the new princess. Guests from near and far fill the space, their toasts ringing in harmony with the clinking of glasses. Magnus sits at the head table, Layla cradled in his arms, her tiny head adorned with a delicate tiara made of golden filigree. Alec stands behind them, his hand resting protectively on Magnus's shoulder, pride etched into every line of his face.

Isabelle: (raising her glass) To Princess Layla, the brightest star in the kingdom!

The crowd echoes her cheer, raising their glasses high. Magnus exchanges a glance with Alec, the shared joy between them palpable.

Magnus: (quietly to Alec) She's already loved so much. More than I ever thought possible.

Alec: (smiling) She deserves every bit of it. And so do you.

Magnus leans back against Alec's chest, his smile widening as he feels the steady beat of Alec's heart against his back. Together, they watch as their family and kingdom celebrate a future filled with promise and love.

Over the years the kingdom has gone through many changes along with the growth of the princess and Magnus has taken over a new role which results in him spending a lot of time in the library. The royal library is a sanctuary of knowledge, filled with towering shelves of books and scrolls that tell the stories of the past. Sunlight filters through tall, arched windows, casting patches of warmth on the polished wooden floors. Magnus sits at a large oak table, surrounded by open tomes, his brow furrowed as he studies an ancient text.

Magnus: (muttering) There must be a reference here... something that can help...

Just then, the door creaks open, and Alec steps inside, his presence instantly brightening the room. He carries a bouquet of wildflowers, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the muted tones of the library.

Alec: (grinning) Look what I found for you in the garden!

Magnus looks up, his expression softening as he takes in the sight of Alec. A smile breaks across his face, momentarily distracting him from the text.

Magnus: (playfully) You know I'm trying to concentrate, don't you?

Alec saunters over, placing the flowers on the table beside Magnus's books. He leans down, brushing a kiss against Magnus's temple.

Alec: (teasing) And you know that I'm here to remind you that there's more to life than ancient prophecies and royal decrees.

Magnus rolls his eyes, though the corner of his mouth betrays his amusement.

Magnus: (sighs) If only the kingdom didn't rely on me to decipher these old texts. We need to be prepared for anything, especially with the council's recent... changes.

Alec straightens, his expression shifting to one of concern.

Alec: (serious) You mean the opposition to our rule? They're growing bolder by the day. I've heard whispers that they want to challenge our authority.

Magnus nods, his fingers absently tracing the spines of the nearby books.

Magnus: (thoughtfully) It's not just about us anymore. It's about Layla and the legacy we're building for her. We need to ensure that this kingdom remains united.

Alec steps closer, his gaze intense.

Alec: (determined) Then we'll face it together. We always have.

Magnus looks up, his heart swelling with pride and love. The bond they share is fortified by every challenge they face, and he knows that with Alec by his side, they can overcome any obstacle.

Magnus: (softly) Together, always.

The council chambers are filled with tension as nobles gather for the meeting. The air is thick with anticipation and whispers of dissent. Magnus and Alec sit at the head of the long, intricately carved table, their presence a beacon of authority.

Noble 1: (standing) Your Majesties, we must address the growing concern among the people. They are restless, and the recent decisions have left many feeling unheard.

Alec's jaw tightens, but he remains calm as he responds.

Alec: (firmly) We understand your concerns, but these decisions were made with the best interests of the kingdom in mind. We must move forward, not backward.

Noble 2: (interrupting) But at what cost? You're alienating those who once supported you.

Magnus raises a hand, his voice steady and commanding.

Magnus: (confidently) Every decision we make is for the good of our people. We want a kingdom where every voice is valued. But that requires unity, not division.

The room falls silent, the nobles exchanging glances. Alec looks at Magnus, pride swelling within him as he watches his partner command the room with grace and authority.

Alec: (encouragingly) We're open to dialogue. Let's discuss solutions, not just grievances.

Gradually, hands begin to rise as nobles propose ideas, and the atmosphere begins to shift from opposition to collaboration. Magnus and Alec share a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They are a team, weathering the storm together. Weeks later, the royal gardens are transformed into a vibrant festival, filled with laughter, music, and the scent of delicious food wafting through the air. The kingdom has come together to celebrate unity, a response to the council's recent discussions.

Magnus and Alec move through the crowd, their hands intertwined, smiles lighting up their faces as they greet their subjects.

Alec: (grinning) Look at them, Magnus. They're happy.

Magnus nods, his heart swelling as he watches children play, couples dance, and families share meals.

Magnus: (softly) It's beautiful. This is what we fought for.

Suddenly, a familiar voice calls out from the crowd.

Isabelle: (waving) There you two are! Come join us!

The siblings embrace, Isabelle's laughter infectious as she pulls them toward the center of the festivities.

Isabelle: (excitedly) We've got games, food, and a surprise performance lined up. You don't want to miss it!

Magnus and Alec share amused looks, knowing that their sister's enthusiasm is boundless.

Alec: (smirking) Lead the way, Isabelle. We're ready for the fun.

As they make their way through the festivities, Magnus spots Layla being held by a trusted nanny, her laughter ringing like music.

Magnus: (pointing) There's our little star!

Alec's heart melts as he watches Layla, her bright eyes sparkling with joy. They approach, and Magnus scoops her into his arms, cradling her close.

Alec: (softly) She's growing so fast.

Magnus beams down at their daughter, who reaches out for her father.

Magnus: (gently) Every day is a new adventure.

As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the garden, a bard steps forward, strumming a lute and singing tales of love and bravery. The crowd gathers, entranced, and Magnus leans against Alec, feeling the warmth of their family and the strength of their bond.

Magnus: (whispering) This is our kingdom, Alec. Together, we'll always protect it.

Alec: (kissing his temple) Together, always.

The music swells, and the celebration continues, a testament to the love and unity they've forged against all odds, ready to embrace whatever the future may hold. The royal library is quieter now, the bustle of the festival replaced by the calmness of the afternoon light filtering through the tall windows. Magnus sits at a large desk, surrounded by scrolls and books, his brow furrowed in concentration. He's immersed in research, deciphering ancient texts that could offer insights into the history of their kingdom and its magic.

Magnus: (muttering to himself) There has to be something here about the old alliances...

Just then, Alec enters, the door creaking softly behind him. He carries a small stack of papers and a curious expression on his face.

Alec: (playfully) You've been in here for hours. Are you plotting world domination, or just trying to decipher the secrets of the universe?

Magnus looks up, a smile breaking through his serious demeanor.

Magnus: (teasing) A little bit of both, actually. But mostly just trying to understand our kingdom's history.

Alec sets the papers down on the desk, leaning over to peek at the scrolls.

Alec: (intrigued) What have you found?

Magnus gestures to an open text, his finger tracing over a passage.

Magnus: (excitedly) This describes an ancient pact between our ancestors and the neighboring kingdoms. It's fascinating! They forged alliances not just through marriage but through mutual protection and shared resources.

Alec raises an eyebrow, leaning closer to read the text.

Alec: (thoughtful) That could be useful, especially with the growing unrest. If we can revive those alliances...

Magnus: (nodding) Exactly! If we can present our people with a united front, it might quell the fears and doubts that have been festering.

Alec straightens, a spark of determination igniting in his eyes.

Alec: (confidently) Then we should gather the nobles and start discussing how to approach this. We can reach out to those kingdoms, and reignite old friendships.

Magnus: (smiling) I knew you'd see the potential.

They share a moment of understanding, the weight of their responsibilities intertwining with their shared vision for the future. Magnus feels a rush of gratitude for Alec's unwavering support, knowing that together, they can navigate the complexities of leadership. With this newfound knowledge, they knew they would be able to figure something out by the time they addressed the council by then the council chambers were alive with murmurs as nobles gathered around the long table, their expressions a mix of skepticism and curiosity. Magnus and Alec stand at the front, ready to present their findings.

Alec: (addressing the council) Thank you all for coming. We have something important to discuss that could benefit our kingdom and restore unity among our allies.

Magnus steps forward, spreading the scrolls across the table for all to see.

Magnus: (passionately) This ancient pact has the potential to strengthen our position. By reaching out to our neighboring kingdoms, we can secure alliances based on mutual trust and shared goals, rather than solely through marriage.

A noble leans forward, skepticism etched on his face.

Noble 3: (challenging) And what makes you think they'll be interested in rekindling these alliances? Our last interactions were fraught with tension.

Alec exchanges a glance with Magnus, his expression resolute.

Alec: (confidently) Because we're not just asking for favors. We have something valuable to offer in return—trade, resources, and a commitment to protect each other. This is about building a future, not dwelling on past grievances.

The nobles murmur among themselves, weighing Alec's words. Magnus can sense the shift in the atmosphere, a glimmer of hope igniting among them.

Magnus: (encouragingly) We can draft a proposal together, outlining the benefits for each kingdom involved. Let's invite their leaders to discuss the terms openly and honestly.

After moments of deliberation, Isabelle raises her hand, her voice cutting through the tension.

Isabelle: (supportively) I think this is a brilliant idea. We have nothing to lose by reaching out. We can't let fear dictate our future.

The council members nod in agreement, an air of determination settling in the room. Magnus feels a rush of gratitude for his sister's unwavering support, her presence a reminder that they are a team, united in their vision. The royal gardens are abuzz with activity as preparations for the summit of allied kingdoms take shape. Banners are hung, vibrant flowers are arranged, and the scent of fresh food fills the air. Magnus and Alec work side by side, their excitement palpable as they finalize the details.

Magnus: (adjusting a banner) Do you think the arrangements are sufficient? I want everyone to feel welcome.

Alec: (smiling) You're a perfectionist, Magnus. It looks amazing. Plus, the food alone will win them over.

Magnus chuckles, his heart lightening as he takes in the scene.

Magnus: (playfully) Just make sure you don't eat all the pastries before the guests arrive.

Alec feigns innocence, a mischievous grin on his face.

Alec: (mocking) Who, me? Never!

As they share a laugh, Isabelle approaches, her expression one of excitement.

Isabelle: (clapping her hands) The first delegates have arrived! They're impressed by the gardens.

Magnus's heart races at the thought of the summit.

Magnus: (nervously) It's showtime, then.

Alec: (reassuringly) Just remember, they're here to forge alliances, not to judge our every move.

With a deep breath, Magnus nods, gathering his composure. Together, they make their way toward the entrance, where representatives of the neighboring kingdoms await. The grand garden is filled with nobles and dignitaries from several kingdoms, their attire a tapestry of colors and styles. Magnus and Alec stand at the center, welcoming each guest with warmth and hospitality.

Noble 4: (bowing slightly) Your Majesties, it's an honor to be here. Your kingdom looks splendid.

Alec: (smiling) Thank you! We're delighted to have you join us.

As the guests mingle, Magnus and Alec take turns presenting their vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration.

Magnus: (passionately) Together, we can forge a stronger alliance, one that honors our shared history and leads us into a prosperous future.

The nobles nod, their expressions shifting from skepticism to intrigue. Magnus feels a surge of hope as the discussions flow, ideas and suggestions bouncing around like a vibrant dance.

Alec: (enthusiastically) Let's not forget the potential for trade. We can create a network that benefits all our kingdoms, ensuring resources flow freely among us.

As the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue over the gathering, the atmosphere shifts. Laughter and conversation blend seamlessly, creating a sense of camaraderie that Magnus hadn't anticipated. As night falls, the summit transforms into a celebration under the stars. Lanterns twinkle above, and tables are laden with food and drink, laughter echoing across the garden. Magnus stands with Alec, their fingers entwined as they watch their guests enjoying the festivities.

Magnus: (smiling) I can't believe how well this is going. It feels like a turning point.

Alec: (beaming) It is. You've worked so hard for this, Magnus. I couldn't be prouder of you.

Magnus feels warmth spread through his chest at Alec's words, gratitude and affection swirling within him.

Magnus: (softly) I couldn't have done it without you. You believed in this vision when I was still figuring it out.

Alec leans closer, his lips brushing against Magnus's ear as he whispers.

Alec: (playfully) Just wait until the dancing starts. That's when the real fun begins.

Magnus chuckles, shaking his head.

Magnus: (laughing) You just want an excuse to show off your moves.

Alec: (grinning) Guilty as charged!

As the music begins to play, couples take to the dance floor, and the jubilant atmosphere envelops them. Magnus feels a pull to join in, but first, he watches as Layla is brought out, her tiny hands reaching for her parents.

Magnus: (gently) Look at our little star.

Alec scoops Layla up, her laughter ringing like chimes, and Magnus feels a rush of love as he watches the bond between father and daughter.

Alec: (smiling) Ready to show her how to dance?

Magnus nods, joining them as they step onto the dance floor, laughter and music surrounding them. The dance floor is alive with energy, the rhythm infectious as nobles twirl and sway to the music. Alec holds Layla securely in one arm, while his other hand reaches for Magnus, pulling him close.

Alec: (grinning) Come on, Magnus! We've got a princess to impress!

Magnus laughs, allowing himself to be swept into the moment. As they dance, he can't help but feel the weight of their shared journey, every challenge leading to this beautiful moment.

Magnus: (giggling) You're not half bad, you know.

Alec: (teasing) Just wait until you see my signature move!

With a flourish, Alec spins Layla around, her giggles filling the air and drawing the attention of their guests. Magnus watches in awe as Alec effortlessly blends joy and grace, the love he has for their daughter radiating from him.

Magnus: (calling out) Showoff!

As the music swells, Magnus joins in, their movements synchronized as they dance together, the world around them fading away.

Alec: (breathless) This is what it's all about, Magnus. Family, love, unity.

Magnus nods, feeling a sense of belonging that fills his heart, the joy of their life together shining brighter than ever. In the days following the summit, the atmosphere in the palace is charged with excitement and possibility. Reports come in from the allied kingdoms, each expressing a willingness to rekindle ties and forge new agreements.

Magnus and Alec sit together in the council chambers, reviewing proposals and drafting letters.

Magnus: (enthusiastically) They're eager to meet again and discuss trade routes. This could change everything for our kingdom!

Alec: (nodding) We just need to ensure that we maintain open lines of communication. Trust is key.

As they work, Isabelle bursts in, her excitement infectious.

Isabelle: (breathlessly) You won't believe the news! The neighboring kingdoms want to send ambassadors to discuss the alliance further!

Magnus's heart races, the reality of their efforts sinking in.

Magnus: (overjoyed) That's incredible! It's exactly what we hoped for!

Alec stands, pulling Magnus into a celebratory embrace, their laughter echoing in the chamber.

Alec: (grinning) We did this together, Magnus. Every moment of hard work is paying off.

As they break apart, Magnus looks at Isabelle, a spark of creativity igniting within him.

Magnus: (thoughtfully) We should host a formal banquet to welcome the ambassadors. It will set the tone for our discussions.

Isabelle: (enthusiastically) I'll help with the arrangements! We can make it a grand affair.

The royal banquet hall is buzzing with preparations for the upcoming event. Servants scurry about, arranging tables draped in elegant fabrics, while flowers are artfully placed to create an inviting ambiance.

Magnus oversees the layout, his heart racing with anticipation. Alec stands beside him, a proud smile on his face as he watches Magnus in his element.

Alec: (grinning) You've outdone yourself. This place looks incredible.

Magnus: (smiling) It's all for the kingdom. We need to show them that we are ready for a new era of cooperation.

As the final touches are made, Isabelle rushes in, her arms full of invitations.

Isabelle: (breathlessly) The invitations are ready to be sent! This event will be the talk of the kingdom!

Magnus takes a deep breath, excitement bubbling within him.

Magnus: (determined) Let's make sure everyone knows how important this is.

As the day of the banquet draws nearer, Magnus and Alec find themselves reflecting on everything they've accomplished together—the challenges they've faced, the love they've forged, and the legacy they are building for Layla. The grand banquet hall is filled with laughter and chatter as guests from various kingdoms mingle, their attire reflecting a kaleidoscope of cultures. Magnus and Alec stand at the entrance, greeting each guest with warmth and hospitality.

Alec: (to Magnus) Are you ready for this?

Magnus nods, his heart racing with excitement and a hint of nerves.

Magnus: (whispering) It's now or never.

As they step forward, the attention of the room shifts to them. Magnus takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of their shared mission.

Magnus: (addressing the guests) Welcome, everyone! We are honored to have you here tonight as we embark on a journey toward unity and collaboration.

The crowd erupts into applause, their smiles encouraging. Alec stands beside Magnus, his presence a steadying force.

Alec: (enthusiastically) Together, we can create a brighter future for our kingdoms, one built on trust and mutual respect.

As the evening unfolds, the atmosphere is electric, filled with discussion and laughter. Magnus and Alec move through the crowd, engaging with guests, sharing stories, and building connections. As the night progresses, the music swells, and couples take to the dance floor, twirling under the soft glow of candlelight. Magnus watches with a smile as Alec joins him, pulling him into the rhythm of the celebration.

Alec: (playfully) Care to dance, my Queen?

Magnus laughs, allowing Alec to lead him onto the floor. They move together, their steps synchronized, lost in the joy of the moment.

Magnus: (breathless) This is what we envisioned, isn't it? A celebration of unity.

Alec: (grinning) Absolutely. And just wait until you see what else I have planned for tonight!

As the music plays on, the couple dances, their hearts intertwined as they embrace the possibilities that lay ahead, ready to face the future together. As the sun rises over the kingdom, casting a warm glow through the palace windows. Magnus and Alec wake to the sound of birds chirping outside, their dreams filled with visions of the future.

Magnus: (stretching) Last night was incredible. I can't believe how well everything went.

Alec: (smiling) It was a success, thanks to you.

Magnus feels a sense of contentment wash over him, knowing that their hard work is beginning to bear fruit. They share a quiet moment, reflecting on their journey and the love they've built.

Magnus: (softly) Whatever challenges lie ahead, we'll face them together.

Alec nods, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes.

Alec: (determined) Together, always.

As they share a tender kiss, the sun rises higher, illuminating the path ahead—a path filled with love, unity, and the promise of a brighter future for their kingdom and their family.

Chapter Text

Once upon a time, many years ago, in a forgotten kingdom, a powerful warlock child named Magnus Bane was born. On the night of his birth, a rare celestial alignment filled the sky, and five godmothers—guardians of magic and balance—blessed the child to forever be known as Briar Rose. They swore to protect him, for his magic was bound to change the world. But one godmother, Lilith, an ancient and wicked sorceress, was not invited. Furious and jealous, she cursed the newborn.

Lilith: On the day his power peaks, he will fall into eternal sleep, and the world will dream into ruin.

The five godmothers, protectors of all magic, tried desperately to undo Lilith's curse. They fought to shield Magnus from the terrible fate Lilith had crafted for him. They combined their magic, weaving spells of protection around the child to keep him safe, but Lilith's dark influence was far too strong. Despite their efforts, the curse took hold when Magnus reached his 19th birthday, the age when his powers fully matured. It was on that fateful day, as Magnus explored the hidden chambers of the castle where he had spent his childhood, that he encountered a strange relic. A wooden spinning wheel—seemingly ordinary, yet infused with dark magic. Without knowing the danger that awaited him, Magnus reached out, his fingers brushing the spindle. In that instant, a sharp pain coursed through him. His finger pricked on the needle, and the curse took hold. A strange, hollow sensation washed over him, and he stumbled back, his vision clouding. His body grew heavy, as if the very air had turned to stone. Before he could even cry out, his eyes fluttered shut, and he fell into a deep, eternal slumber. His powers, his vibrant energy, everything about him was locked away in a state of unending rest. And with that, the world forgot about Magnus Bane. His name was whispered in forgotten legends and faded tales, but the reality of his existence was lost to time. The enchanted castle where he lay slept in the heart of the kingdom, buried deep within a forest untouched by the years. The five godmothers, in their grief, cast a final spell, hiding the castle from mortal eyes. They ensured that no one would ever find the sleeping warlock. The world continued, unaware of the hero that had been lost, and the tale of the Sleeping Warlock became nothing more than a myth. A child's story was told to pass the time, and soon, even that faded into obscurity. And so it was, until a thousand years later. 

The winds of magic had shifted once again, and a disturbance rippled through the fabric of reality. Clary Fray stood alone in the ruins of an ancient castle, feeling the weight of the long-forgotten past bearing down on her. Magic hummed in the air, thick and ancient, a trace of power that wasn't quite right. The winds whispered secrets from long ago, carrying the distant sound of something lost, something magical. She had followed the magical trail here, tracking a disturbance that had led her to this forgotten kingdom. She was no stranger to strange occurrences, but this-this was different. Something powerful had happened here, something tied to a legend she had only heard of in passing. The Sleeping Warlock. A curse, a forgotten prince. She felt that the answers were just beyond her reach, and she wasn't about to leave without them. Stepping carefully through the overgrown courtyard, her boots barely making a sound on the moss-covered stone, Clary's heart raced. She wasn't sure what she expected, but what she found was unexpected. There, among the swirling mists, a figure appeared. A spectral figure, glowing with an ethereal light, his form barely solid—like a memory made of flesh. 

Magnus: I am Briar Rose, and I wish you no harm

The figure spoke, his voice soft and melodic, carrying an air of centuries-old power. Clary blinked in surprise, recognizing the name. It was a name from the fairy tales, from the legends of old. But there was something about the way the figure said it, as if it was more than just a name. Something about the way the magic clung to him. She didn't need to ask who he was-she knew. 

Clary: Magnus

Clary's voice caught in her throat. The figure nodded slowly, the golden light flickering around him like it was struggling to hold him together. 

Magnus: The Curse has returned, and a great danger looms. But I can help you stop it, before all is consumed. My body lies in response, in a castle room deep. To vanquish the Curse, you must rouse me from sleep. However, an Evil Godmother is haunting this place. Be wary, or else she may foil your case. 

Clary's heart raced, her mind spinning as the weight of his words settled in. Magnus Bane. A legend. A sleeping warlock cursed by Lilith. But there was something more in his words. A sense of urgency. A sense that the battle wasn't over. 

Clary: We'll stop her

Her voice was steady. She was resolute.

Clary: You have my word.

The ghostly figure of Magnus seemed to smile faintly, a mixture of gratitude and sorrow on his face. His golden eyes, full of ancient wisdom, softened. 

Magnus: Thank you... You must find my body. Only then can the curse be truly broken.

The figure flickered again, his form beginning to dissipate. 

Magnus: Hurry... Before it's too late.

With that, he vanished, leaving behind only a faint, shimmering trail of magic that dissolved into the air. Clary stood alone in the stillness of the ruined hall, the echo of his voice lingering like smoke in her ears. The weight of what she had just witnessed settled heavily on her chest. A sleeping warlock cursed for a thousand years. A forgotten tale has now returned to life. And a warning—a threat that could consume the world if left unanswered. She didn't have all the answers, but she knew where she had to start. Clutching the enchanted map left behind, she turned and hurried out of the ancient ruins, her mind already racing ahead. The faces of those she trusted flickered through her thoughts, but one stood out—Alec. He might not believe her at first, but if anyone could help her navigate this forgotten magic, it was him. He deserved to know. Even if he didn't remember, even if the past was lost to him—he had once tried to save Magnus. And maybe, just maybe, he was meant to do it again. Back in New York, Clary wasted no time. She found Alec in the training room, deep in concentration as he honed his skills. Alexander "Alec" Lightwood was always the diligent one, always so focused on the mission. But this was different. This wasn't about demons or shadowhunters or their usual work. This was something far older, far more dangerous. And Clary needed his help. 

Clary: Alec

Clary called out, entering the room with urgency in her step. Alec looked up, his brow furrowed as he wiped sweat from his forehead.

Alec: What's going on, Clary? You look like you've seen a ghost. 

Clary's mouth went dry as she approached him, unsure how to begin. She couldn't just come out and say it—Alec had no memory of Magnus, not yet. He didn't know the truth about the warlock who had once meant everything to him. He didn't remember the prince. 

Clary: Do you remember your dreams

She carefully asked with her gentle voice. 

Clary: The ones from when you were younger? The dreams about the prince 

Alec's brow furrowed deeper, confusion flickering across his face. 

Alec: Dreams? What are you talking about, Clary? I haven't had any weird dreams

Clary took a deep breath.

Clary: Alec, you... You've had memories of someone, haven't you? Someone important. 

Alec shook his head, still looking puzzled. 

Alec: I don't know what you're talking about. I've never had any strange memories. What does this have to do with anything

Clary hesitated for a moment, her gaze softening. She could see it in Alec's eyes—the blankness, the confusion. It was like looking at a person with no past, no history. The memories were buried deep, locked away. She would have to remind him. 

Clary: It's about Magnus

She said quietly, but still with urgency.

Clary: He's real, Alec. He's been cursed. He's been asleep for a thousand years, but I saw him, and we need to break the curse

Alec stared at her for a long moment, the weight of her words sinking in slowly. 

Alec: Magnus? The warlock

Clary nodded.

Clary: Yes. I need your help. You're the key. You've always been

Alec stood there, stunned. 

Alec: I don't understand. I've never—

Clary: Just come with me

Clary urged, stepping closer to Alec.

Clary: I'll explain everything when we get there. But you're the only one who can help me now

Alec's gaze softened as he looked at her. 

Alec: Alright. Let's go. If there's something I need to remember, I'll trust you. But Clary... This sounds insane

Clary: I know

She said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Clary: But it's the only way to save him

The castle loomed ahead as they crossed the threshold of the forgotten kingdom. The air was thick with dark magic, a lingering presence that Clary could feel seeping into her bones. The vines curled around the stone walls like serpents, and the wind whispered ancient secrets. As they made their way deeper into the castle, Clary could feel the heavy weight of the past pressing down on them. She didn't know what Alec was feeling, but she knew this was more than a mission. This was fate. Alec was tied to Magnus in a way he couldn't remember, but it was there, buried deep within him. Alec moved quietly beside her, his sharp eyes scanning every corner. Though he said nothing, Clary noticed the way his hand hovered near his weapon, the way his shoulders tightened with each step. There was tension in his jaw, as though his body sensed something long before his mind could name it. And still, he pressed forward, drawn by something he couldn't explain. They turned a corner, the hallway narrowing into a corridor that pulsed faintly with old enchantments. Dust filled the air like ash, dancing in the shafts of light that broke through cracks in the walls. Then something caught Clary's eye—a faint shimmer against the far stone wall, almost like heat rising from the pavement. She approached cautiously, her hand brushing aside the thick curtain of ivy that masked it.

Beneath the vines, stone met magic. Runes glowed faintly beneath her touch—ancient, celestial markings that had not been seen in centuries.

Clary: Here 

She whisper.

Clary: This is it

Alec stepped forward, helping her pull the vines away. As the final tendrils fell, the hidden chamber revealed itself. The door groaned as it opened, the magic resisting them until it gave way with a sigh, like the castle itself exhaling after a thousand years of silence. They found the hidden chamber eventually, its entrance concealed by overgrown vines that had wrapped themselves around the stone like a second skin. The moment they entered, the air grew cold, a shiver running down Clary's spine. And there he was—Magnus, lying still, a sleeping prince trapped in an eternal slumber. Alec stepping forward, placing his hand over Magnus's hand. Something deep within him stirred—a memory, a connection. His heart raced, his pulse quickened. The face before him was unfamiliar, yet there was a deep, instinctual recognition. Magnus's features were serene, his body encased in a magical slumber that had lasted for a thousand years. But Alec didn't know who he was, not yet. 

Clary: Magnus...

Clary whispered, stepping forward.

Clary: This is him. This is the one

Alec looked at her, a mix of confusion and awe in his eyes. He still didn't understand, but the pull the sens that something was missing, was undeniable. Then, the darkness in the room shifted. The temperature dropped, the shadows deepening. And out of the shadows emerged a figure—Lilith, the Evil Godmother, her dark magic swirling around her like an unholy storm. 

Lilith: So, the prince has returned.

She hissed, her voice filled with malice.

Lilith: Still trying to wake your lost love, Alec

Alec tensed, his hand gripping his sword. 

Alec: I will stop you, Lilith

Lilith laughed cruelly.

Lilith: You cannot stop me. The curse is min to control. The warlock will fall alseep once again, and with him, the world will fall. 

Clary moved to stand beside Alec, her sword raised.

Clary: We won't let you win

The battle between light and dark raged on as Alec and Clary fought Lilith's dark magic with all their might. But Alec's mind was still consumed with the image of Magnus—the warlock who had once been his heart's greatest love, a love he could barely remember. The connection was there, buried deep in his soul, waiting to be reignited. Finally, in a surge of magic, Alec's heart surged with power. The walls of the castle cracked, and the curse shattered with a violent tremor. Magnu's eyes snapped open, glowing golden once more. Alec rushed to his side, kneeling beside him as the weight of the curse lifted from his shoulders. 

Alec: Magnus... You're awake.

Magnus smiled weakly, but there was a recognition in his eyes, and whispered

Magnus: Alexnader. I remember you

Alec reached out, brushing a hand aginst Magnus' cheek. 

Alec: I never stopped looking for you. 

Magnus slowly stood from the bed, magic swirling around him in a soft, shimmering aura. He looked at Clary and Alec with a sad smile. 

Magnus: Thank you, You've saved me... but it's not over yet.

Clary: What do you mean 

Clary asked. Magnus's expression turned serious. 

Magnus: There's another curse—one older than mine. If you don't stop it, the world will drown. 

A small golden crown materialized in his hand, shimmering with an eerie glow. 

Magnus: Take this 

Magnus said handing the small crown to Clary.

Magnus: Find the Frog Prince. He's cursed just as I was. If you don't free him, everything will be lost. 

Clary looked at the map that had appeared, a cryptic scroll left by a carrier pigeon centuries ago. It pointed the way to the next great danger.

Clary: I'll find him

Clary promised, tucking the map into her coat.

Clary: And I'll stop it.

Magnus's eyes glimmered with something like hope.

Magnus: The tale is never over, Clary. It only ever sleeps.

The End... or the Beginning of Another Adventure.

Chapter Text

The arrow whispered through the air. David Chen heard it—barely—a split second before impact. He turned, eyes wide with realization that he’d made a terrible mistake, that the pregnant man crying by the broken-down car had been a tap, that he was going to die in these woods far from home. The broadhead arrow punched through his chest with surgical precision, and David Chen’s last thought was of his sister’s wedding next month, the one he’d never attend. In the shadows of the trees, Alexander Lightwood lowered his compound bow and allowed himself a small smile. Forty-three yards. Perfect shot. Perfect kill. Behind him, Magnus emerged from the tree line, one hand pressed against his swollen belly, the other wiping away fake tears. 

Magnus: Is it done?

Alec: It’s done

Alec moved to the body, efficient and methodical. He checked for a wedding ring—none—and extracted the driver’s license from the victim’s wallet. David Chen, Seattle, Washington. Single. The license joined the others in Alec’s pocket. Magnus watched, his expression unreadable.

Magnus: That’s three, Alexander

Alec: I know

Alec stood, pulling Magnus close, his hand resting possessively on Magnus’s stomach. 

Alec: Three men who stopped, who thought they could play hero. Three men who never asked themselves why someone like you would be alone on this highway

Magnus: What if someone doesn’t stop next time

Alec’s jaw tightened.

Alec: They will. They always do. People see you, see our baby, and they can’t help themselves. They have to save you

His voice turned bitter. 

Alec: Just like I couldn’t save us from him

Magnus leaned into his husband’s chest, closing his eyes. 

Magnus: Joe’s gone. We’re free

Alec: We’ll never be free. Not really

Alec pressed a kiss to Magnus’s temple. 

Alec: But this… this helps. Doesn’t it help

Magnus didn’t answer. He’d stopped having answers weeks ago. 

The conference room at the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit hummed with fluorescent lights and the quiet tension of a new case. Unit Chief Aaron Hitchner stood at the front, remote in hand, as images flashed across the screen. 

Hotch: Three victims over six weeks. All male, aged twenty-eight to thirty-five. All disappeared along a fifty-mile stretch of Highway 93 in Idaho

Hotch clicked through crime screen photos. 

Hotch: Bodies were recovered in wilderness areas between one and three miles from the highway. Cause of death in all cases: single arrow wound to the chest or throat

Morgan: Bow hunting

Derek Morgan observed, leaning forward. 

Morgan: That’s unusual. Efficient, quiet, but it takes serious skill

Dr. Spencer Reid nodded, already processing data at his typical rapid pace. 

Reid: Compound bows have a draw weight of sixty to seventy pounds and require extensive training to achieve this level of accuracy. The UnSub would need hundreds of hours of practice, possibly military or competitive archery experience

Prentiss: The question is why

Emily Prentiss said, studying the victimology. 

Prentiss: Three men, all traveling alone, all found in remote areas. What made them stop 

Jennifer ‘JJ’ Jareau set down her file. 

JJ: Maybe they were forced off the road

Hotch: No signs of vehicular contact. No damage to their cars, no paint transfer. They stopped willingly.

Rossi: For what

Reid’s eyes lit up with understanding. 

Reid: Someone who appeared to need help. Someone vulnerable. The psychological literature shows that people are significantly more likely to stop for individuals who appear helpless, such as elderly people, women, or children...

JJ: Someone pregnant

JJ finished, her expression darkening. Hotch nodded.

Hotch: Garcia’s running analysis on traffic patterns and surveillance footage now. Wheels up in twenty. Idaho State Police are requesting our presence before there’s a fourth victim

The BAU jet flew through clouds at thirty-five thousand feet. The team had spread out across the cabin, each absorbed in case files and their own thoughts. Reid sat cross-legged, surrounded by papers. 

Reid: The spacing between kills is decreasing. Twenty-one days between victims one and two, eighteen days between two and three. The UnSub is accelerating

Prentiss: Escalation suggests increasing confidence or increasing need; they’re getting something from this: power, control, satisfaction of some psychological hunger. 

Morgan flipped through autopsy reports. 

Morgan: Medical examiner noted defensive wounds on all three victims. Bruising on the hands and forearms, lacerations from vegetation, dirt embedded under fingernails. They were running 

Rossi: They were being hunted. Released like game animals and chased through the woods

JJ shuddered at the thought.

JJ: What kind of person does that

Hotch’s voice was steady, clinical. 

Hotch: Someone who feels powerless in their daily life. Someone who needs to assert dominance, to prove they’re superior. They hunt allows them to play god; to control who lives and dies. 

Prentiss: But why use a partner? Most hunters work alone

Hotch: Because the partner serves a purpose, they’re the lure, the bait that draws victims in. This is a team, and they’re very good at what they do

Reid looked up from his reading.

Reid: The trophies are interesting. Wedding rings from married victims, driver’s licenses from unmarried ones. The distinction suggests the UnSubs are making a judgment about their victims, categorizing them based on relationship status

JJ: Maybe they’re married themselves. The rings represent something to them; commitment, partnership, possession

Morgan: Or control. Taking the rings is taking the symbol of that person’s most important relationship. 

Hotch stood as the pilot announced their descent.

Hotch: Let’s find out. We land in fifteen minutes

The Salmon, Idaho Police Department was a modest brick building that served a population of three thousand. Chief Deputy John Whitmore met them in the parking lot, his weathered face creased with worry. 

C. D. Whitmore: Agents, thank you for coming. This thing has the whole town spooked. We’re not used to this kind of violence out here.

Hotch: Tell us about the area

Hotch asked as they walked inside

C. D. Whitmore: Highway 93 runs north-south through some of the most remote wilderness in the state. Lots of tourists pass through: hunters, fishermen, hikers. It’s isolated. Miles between gas stations, cell service is spotty at best. 

Whitmore led them to a conference room where maps and evidence photos covered the walls. 

C. D. Whitmore: We patrol when we can, but we don’t have the manpower to cover every mile

Rossi studied the map, noting the marked locations where victims disappeared. 

Rossi: These points form a pattern. They’re all within five mils of this intersection here.

He tapped the map. 

C. D. Whitmore: That’s Joe’s station. Old service station, closed down about two months ago when Joe Lightwood passed. Heart attack, doc said

Reid’s head snapped up. 

Reid: Lightwood? Do you know if he had family

C. D. Whitmore: Nephew, I think. Alec. Quiet guy, ex-military. Moved here with his… husband? Partner? A few years back

Whitmore scratched his head. 

C. D. Whitmore: Don’t see them much. They keep to themselves out at Joe’s old property. 

Hotch exchanged a look with Morgan. 

Morgan: This nephew, does he hunt

C. D. Whitmore: Don’t know about recently, but Joe sure did. Had Alec out in those woods since the kid was ten years old. Joe was proud of it, always bragging about how Alec could track anything, shoot anything

Whitmore paused.

C. D. Whitmore: Why? You think Alec’s involved

Hotch: We need to talk to him. Can you give us the address

Garcia’s face filled the screen in their makeshift command center, her usual colorful enthusiasm dimmed by the gravity of the case. 

Garcia: Okay, my intrepid crime fighters, here’s what I found on Alexander ‘Alec’ Lightwood. Born September 12th, 1989, joined the Army at eighteen, became a Ranger, and served two tours in Afghanistan. Expert marksman, trained in survival, tracking, and reconnaissance. Honorably discharged three years ago with commendations

Morgan: Any red flags in his military record

Garcia: Nothing official. But…

Garcia bit her lip. 

Garcia: I dug into his medical records; sealed, but you know me, and there’s a psych evaluation from his discharge physical. The psychiatrist noted ‘difficulty with authority,’ ‘trust issues,’ and ‘challenges with emotional regulation.’ Recommended follow-up counseling, but there’s no record that he ever went

Prentiss: What about the husband

Garcia clicked her keyboard. 

Garcia: Magnus Bane, now Magnus Lightwood. Born in Indonesia, moved to the US as a teenager. Worked as a makeup artist and stylist in New York before moving to Idaho. And here’s where it gets interesting: social media shows he’s currently in his third trimester of pregnancy. 

JJ leaned closer to the screen. 

JJ: Male pregnancy. That’s still relatively rare, isn’t it

Reid: About one in fifty thousand male births involve a gestational carrier. It requires specialized medical care and…

Hotch: And it would make Magnus extremely effective as a lure

Hotch interrupted. 

Hotch: A visibly pregnant person in distress on a remote highway would trigger protective instincts in most people

JJ: Especially men. The victims are all male. Maybe that’s not a coincidence. 

Garcia pulled up more data. 

Garica: Traffic camera footage from the last six weeks shows a black SUV appearing multiple times near the disappearance sites. I’m running the plates now… and bingo. Registered to Alexander Lightwood

Hotch: That’s our UnSub team. Garcia, I need everything you can find on Alexander’s relationship with his uncle Joe. medical records, police reports, anything. 

Garcia: On it, Boss. 

Garcia’s fingers flew. 

Garcia: Oh, this is interesting. Joe Lightwood’s death certificate lists cause of death as a heart attack, but… the attending physician noted ‘unusual circumstances’ and requested a follow-up investigation. The investigation was never completed. 

Morgan straightened. 

Morgan: What kind of unusual circumstances

Garcia: Bruising around the throat, petechial hemorrhage in the eyes; signs that could indicate strangulation. But the medical examiner ruled it a natural cause because of Joe’s history of heart disease

Rossi’s eyes narrowed. 

Rossi: Someone killed Joe and made it look natural

Prentiss: Alexander or Magnus. One of them killed Joe Lightwood 

Hotch’s expression was grim. 

Hotch: And killing was the trigger. That’s when they went from fantasy to reality. Garcia, send me the address for Joe’s property. Morgan, Prentiss, you’re with me. Reid, JJ, Rossi; coordinate with local PD. If we’re right about this, they may already have another victim

The abandoned service station sat like a tombstone at the edge of the highway. Weeds pushed through cracks in the concrete. The windows were dark, filled with dust and dead insects. A faded sign reading “Joe’s Gas & Auto” creaked in the wind. Morgan approached with his weapon drawn, Prentiss covering from the left while Hotch moved toward the main entrance. The door hung crooked on its hinges, unlocked. Inside, the station was frozen in time. Shelves still held dusty candy bars and motor oil. The register sat open, empty. But it was the smell that hit them first: decay, neglect, and something else. Something wrong. 

Morgan: Clear

Morgan called from the garage area.

Prentiss: Clear

Prentiss echoes from the restroom. Hotch moved toward the back office, pushing open the door with his foot. The room beyond made his blood run cold. The wall was a shrine. Photographs covered every inch; Joe Lightwood in hunting gear, posing with dead deer and elk. A younger Alec in many of the photos, maybe ten or twelve, holding weapons too large for his small frame. His face was blank in every image, emotionless, like a doll. But there were other photos too. Close-ups of bruises on thin arms. A black eye on a teenage Alexander. Welts across a bare back. Evidence of systematic abuse, carefully documented and displayed like trophies.

Morgan: Hotch

His voice was tight. 

Morgan: You need to see this

A wooden cabinet stood against the far wall. Morgan had opened ot reveal rows of small plastic bags, each labeled and dated. Inside were wedding rings—gold, silver, platinum—and driver’s licenses with faces staring out from laminated cards.  Three bags. Three victims. Three trophies. 

Prentiss: He’s keeping score

Hotch pulled out his phone. 

Hotch: Reid, we’ve confirmed the UnSubs. Alexander and Magnus Lightwood. They’re operating out of Joe’s old property and…

His phone buzzed with an incoming call. Reid’s voice came through strained with urgency. 

Reid: Hotch, we have another missing person. Benjamin Torres, thirty-four, called his wife an hour ago, saying he stopped to help someone off Highway 93. She hasn’t been able to reach him since. 

Hotch: Description

Reid: Male, Hispanic, married with two kids. He was driving a silver Honda Accord. His wife said he specifically mentioned a pregnant man who looked distressed by a broken-down car. 

Hotch’s jaw clenched. 

Hotch: Get units mobilizing. Garcia, I need Torres’s phone pinging now. 

Garcia: Already on it,

Garcia’s voice came through the speaker. 

Garcia: Last ping was forty minutes ago, approximately three miles east of Joe’s property. Right at the edge of cell coverage. 

Morgan: They’re hunting him right now

Hotch was already moving towards the door. 

Hotch: Then we don’t have much time.

Back at the police station, the team assembled quickly. Local law enforcement fills the room, faces tense with anticipation. Hotch stood at the front, his expression grave. 

Hotch: We’re looking for a team of two offenders. Alexander Lightwood, age thirty-five, and Magnus Lightwood, age thirty-three. Alexander is the dominant partner; ex-military, expert marksman, trained in survival and tracking. He’s physically fit, intelligent, and highly organized. Magnus is the submissive partner, currently in late-term pregnancy, acting as bait to lure victims. 

Reid stepped forward, gesturing to the timeline on the board. 

Reid: The killings began approximately six weeks ago, shortly after the death of Alexander’s uncle, Joe Lightwood. We believe Alec or Magnus killed Joe, and that murder was the catalyst that moved them from fantasy to action. 

C. D. Whitmore: Why kill Joe

Prentiss took over. 

Prentiss: Joe raised Alec from age ten. The evidence suggests severe, prolonged abuse, physical and psychological. Joe controlled every aspect of Alecr’s life, including teaching him to hunt. For Alec, hunting became associated with his uncle’s control and abuse

JJ: When Joe died—or was killed—Alexander didn’t feel liberated. He felt empty. The structure that defined his entire life was gone. So he recreated it, but this time, himself in control. He became the hunter choosing the prey, deciding who lives and dies. 

Rossi: Magnus’s pregnancy is significant. It became visible around the time the killings started. Alexander is trying to assert power and control before the baby arrives; before he becomes someone’s father and potentially repeats the cycle of abuse he experienced. 

Morgan: The victims are all men. We believe they represent something to Alec; maybe Joe himself, maybe the type of man Joe was. By hunting and killing them, Alexander is symbolically destroying his uncle over and over again

Hotch’s voice cuts through the murmurs. 

Hotch: These UnSubs are highly efficient and extremely dangerous. They know this terrain better than we do. Alexander has years of military training and intimate knowledge of these woods. We need to approach this carefully and strategically

Officer: What about Magnus? He’s pregnant. Why would he go along with this

JJ’s expression softened. 

JJ: Trauma bonding. Magnus likely experiences abuse from Joe as well; his relationship with Alexander is codependent. He may fear Alec, or he may genuinely believe he’s helping him. Either way, he’s complicit in these murders. 

Hotch: Benjamin Torres has been missing for over an hour. If we don’t find him soon, he’ll become victim number four. Let’s move

Benjamin Torres crashed through the underbrush, his lungs burning, his legs screaming. Blood dripped from a cut above his eye where a branch had slashed him. His phone was gone—dropped somewhere in the first panicked minutes of running—and he had no idea which direction led to safety. Behind him, somewhere in the trees, was the man with the bow. Benjamin had stopped to help. Of course, he had. A pregnant man, crying beside a broken-down SUV, looking lost and frightened. Benjamin had two kids at home. He understood what it meant to be vulnerable, to need help. 

Magnus: Please

The pregnant man had put his hand on his belly. 

Magnus: My husband went to get help, but that was hours ago. I think something’s wrong with the baby. 

Benjamin had pulled over immediately. Had approached with his phone out, ready to call 911. Had not seen the shadow moving through the trees until it was too late. The pregnant man’s expression had changed, from fear to something else. Resignation, maybe. Sorrow. 

Magnus: Run

He whispered. 

Magnus: You have to run. Now

And Benjamin had run. For his life, for his wife Maria, and their kids Sofia and Diego. For every birthday and soccer game and family dinner he might never see. A sound behind him made him freeze. Footsteps. Steady, unhurried. The hunter wasn’t running. He didn’t need to. He knew these woods. He knew Benjamin would tire, would make mistakes, would eventually have nowhere left to go. 

Alec: You can’t escape

The voice was calm, almost gentle. 

Alec: No one does. The woods always win

Benjamin spotted a cluster of fallen logs and dove behind them, pressing his body low, trying to silence his ragged breathing. His heart hammered so loudly he was sure it would give him away. Silence. Then, closer than before…

Alec: I learned to hunt in these woods. My uncle taught me. He’d take me out here for days at a time, just him and me. No food, no water, no way home unless I caught something. I was ten years old the first time 

Benjamin risked a glance over the logs. Nothing. Just trees and shadows. 

Alec: He said it would make me strong. Make me a man. And I believed him, because what else could I do

The voice moved, circling. 

Alec: Do you know what it’s like to be completely powerless? To have someone control everything: what you eat, when you sleep, whether you live or die?

Benjamin’s hand found a rock, roughly the size of his fist. It wasn’t much, but it was something. 

Alec: You stopped to help Magnus. That was kind of you. Stupid, but kind. They’re always kind, the ones who stop. Good men, trying to do the right thing. Joe would have called them weak. 

The footsteps stopped.

Alec: Joe’s dead now. I made sure of that. But I still hear his voice every day, telling me I’m nothing, I’m worthless, I’m weak. The only time it stops is when I’m out here, with my bow, with prey that thinks it has a chance. 

Benjamin heard the creak of the bowstring being drawn taut. 

Alec: You don’t have a chance. None of them did. But you can die knowing you were brave enough to try. That’s more than Joe ever gave me

Benjamin threw the rock as hard as he could toward a cluster of trees to his left and bolted right. An arrow hissed past his ear, so close he felt the displacement of air. He ran blind, tearing through vegetation, his only thought escape, survive, get home. And then he heard sirens in the distance.

The FBI vehicles screamed down the dirt road toward Joe’s property, red and blue lights cutting through the twilight. Hotch was in the lead SUV with Morgan and Prentiss, while Reid, JJ, and Rossi followed with local law enforcement. 

Hotch: Garcia, do we have a location on Torres

Hotch demanded over the comms. 

Garcia: His phone is dead, but I’ve got his car GPS. It pinged at mile marker forty-seven, right where Magnus’s SUV was supposedly broken down. That was ninety minutes ago

K-9 Unit: Tracking dogs are two minutes out

The vehicles skidded to a stop at the trailhead. The team spilled out, weapons drawn, tactical vests secured. The dogs strained at their leashes, noses to the ground, already catching the scent. 

Hotch: Two teams. Morgan, Prentiss, Reid—with me. JJ, Rossi—coordinate here and provide backup. If Torres makes it out of those woods, we need to be ready. 

The tracking dogs took off into the forest, and the teams followed. The woods were growing dark, the last rays of sunlight filtering through the canopy in golden shafts. Every sound was amplified—the crunch of leaves underfoot, the distant call of birds, the team’s harsh breathing as they moved quickly through difficult terrain. 

Reid: Blood.

Reid called out, kneeling beside a tree. 

Reid: Recent. From the spatter pattern, someone was moving fast, probably running

Morgan: Torres

Morgan confirmed, studying the tracks. 

Morgan: And these prints are different. Heavier, deliberate. Someone following him. 

They moved faster. 

Magnus sat on a fallen log at the edge of a small clearing, one hand pressed against his stomach where the baby kicked insistently. He was exhausted—physically, emotionally, spiritually. Everything hirt. Everything had hurt for so long. He heard Alec moving through the trees, tracking his prey with the efficiency of long practice. This was the fourth hunt. Four men who had stopped to help him. Four men who had died because Magnus had played his part perfectly—tears, fear, vulnerability. Four men who had families waiting for them. Magnus closed his eyes. When had he become this person? When had he stopped being Magnus Bane—artist, stylist, someone who brought beauty into the world—and become this hollow thing, this accomplice to murder? He knew the answer. It had happened slowly, over the years. Joe’s control over Alec, Alec’s control over him. The isolation in Idaho, far from friends and support. The pregnancy, which should have been joyful but instead felt like another chain binding him to Alec’s darkness. And the night he’d killed Joe. Magnus could still feel Joe’s throat beneath his hands, could still hear the old man’s gasping surprise as Magnus squeezed. 

Magnus: You won’t hurt him anymore. You won’t hurt our baby

Alec had helped him stage it as a heart attack. Had held Magnus while he shook and cried. Had kissed him and said…

Alec: Now we’re free. Not it’s just us.

But they weren’t free. Killing Joe had opened the door inside Alec that couldn’t be closed. A hunger that hunting deer and elk couldn’t satisfy. He needed to hunt men. Needed to prove he was the ultimate predator, that no one would ever control him again. And Magnus, drowning in his own guilt and fear, had gone along with it. The baby kicked again, harder this time. Magnus gasped, a sharp pain lancing through his abdomen. Not now. Please not now. 

Alec: Magnus

He looked up to find Alec emerging from the trees, his bow in hand, his expression troubled. 

Alec: Did you hear that

Magnus: Hear what

Alec: Sirens. And dogs. I think—I think someone called the police 

Magnus struggled to stand. 

Magnus: Alexander, maybe we should

Alec: No

Alec’s voice was sharp.

Alec: Not yet. One more. The prey is close. I can finish this

Magnus: And then what? We can’t run, Alexander. I’m nine months pregnant. Where would we go

Alec’s hand cupped Magnus’s face, surprisingly gentle. 

Alec: I’ll protect you. I’ll protect our family. That’s all I’ve ever wanted—to keep us safe. To make sure no one ever hurts us the way Joe did. 

Magnus: This isn’t protecting us. This is destroying us.

Alec: You don’t understand—

Magnus: I killed him!

The words burst from Magnus like a dam breaking.

Magnus: I killed Joe, not you. I’m the one who put my hands around his throat and squeezed until he stopped breathing. I did it to protect you, to protect our baby. But this?

He gestured at the woods, at the invisible prey Alec was hunting. 

Magnus: This isn’t protection. This is murder. 

Alec stared at him, something crumbling behind his eyes. 

Alec: Magnus—

The sound of crashing brush interrupted them. Both turned to see a man burst into the clearing—bloodied, terrified, running for his life. Benjamin Torres skidded to a stop when he saw them. His eyes darted between Alec with his bow and Magnus, clearly pregnant, clearly involved. 

Benjamin: Please. Please, I have kids. I have a family. Please. 

Alec raised the bow. 

Hotch: FBI! DROP YOUR WEAPON!

They came from all sides—agents in tactical gear, weapons raised, red laser sights painting dots across Alec’s chest. Hotch was front and center, his voice commanding and absolute. 

Hotch: Alexander Lightwood, put down the bow and step away from the victim!

Alec didn’t move. His arrow was nocked, the string drawn back, aimed directly at Benjamin Torres’s heart. Benjamin stood frozen, knowing that any movement could be his last. 

Alec: You don’t understand

Alec said, his voice eerily calm. 

Alec: He stopped. He chose to stop. He saw Magnus and thought he could save him, thought he could be the hero. But nobody saved me. Nobody saved us. 

Morgan had circled around, positioning himself for a shot. 

Morgan: It’s over, Alec. Let him go. 

Alec: Over? 

Alec laughed, a broken sound. 

Alec: It’s never over. Joe is dead, but I still hear him. Every day. Every night. Telling me I’m weak, telling me I’m nothing. The only time I don’t hear him is when I’m out here, when I’m the one in control, when I choose who lives and dies. 

Reid spoke up, his voice gentle. 

Reid: I understand you suffered terrible abuse, Alec. What Joe did to you was wrong. But these men didn’t hurt you. Benjamin Torres didn’t hurt you. He has two children at home who need their father. 

Alec: I was a child once. Who needed a father. Instead, I got Joe

Reid: I know. And I’m sorry. No child should experience what you did. But you’re not a child anymore, Alec. You have choices. You have control. You can choose to lower the bow

Alec: If I lower the bow, it’s over. They’ll take me away, put me in a cage. I’ll be powerless again

Prentiss: You were never powerless. You survived. You escaped. You built a life. That took incredible strength. 

Alec: It took killing Joe. Magnus and I finally said enough. We finally took our power back. 

Hotch’s eyes flickered to Magnus, who was slumped against a tree, his face pale with pain. 

Hotch: Magnus needs medical attention. Let us help him. Let us help your baby. 

Alec: Don’t 

Alec’s voice cracked. 

Alec: Don’t talk about my baby

JJ: Why Not

JJ asked, her tone soft. 

JJ: You’re going to be a father, Alec. Don’t you want your child to know you? To have memories of you that aren’t…

She gestured at the woods, the bow, the terrified victim. 

JJ: This

Something shifted in Alec’s expression. Pain, raw and terrible, broke through his controlled exterior. 

Alec: I can’t be a father. I don’t know how. Joe destroyed that in me. 

JJ: That’s not true. You can break the cycle. You can choose to be different. 

Alec: I killed people!

Alec’s shout echoes through the trees. 

Alec: I hunted them like animals! I took their lives because it made me feel powerful! What kind of father does that make me?

Hotch: One who can still change. One who can still choose to do the right thing. For your child. For Magnus

Alec’s hands trembled. The bow wavered. Benjamin Torres took a tiny step backward. And then Magnus cried out, a sound of pure agony that cut through everything else. 

Magnus collapsed, clutching his stomach, blood seeping through his clothes. Alec’s head whipped around, the bow forgotten, Benjamin Torres forgotten, everything forgotten except Magnus on the ground. 

Alec: No. No, no, no—

Alec dropped the bow and fell to his knees beside his husband. 

Alec: Magnus, hold on, I’ve got you—

Morgan moved fast, securing Benjamin and pulling him to safety. Prentiss rushed forward with a medical kit while Reid radioed for an ambulance. 

Prentiss: I need a medic! Now!

Prentiss dropped beside Magnus, assessing. 

Prentiss: He’s in labor. Premature labor. We need to stop the bleeding

Magnus’s eyes found Alec’s, and in them was a terrible understanding. 

Magnus: Alexander. It’s too late. 

Alec: No

Alec gripped Magnus’s hand. 

Alec: No, you’re going to be fine. The baby is going to be fine. We’re going to—

Magnus: Listen to me

Magnus’s voice was weak but determined. 

Magnus: When they ask… tell them it was me. I killed Joe. Not you. Just me 

Alec: Magnus, stop—

Magnus: Our baby…

Magnus gasped as another contraction seized him. 

Magnus: Our baby can’t grow up knowing both parents were murderers. One of us has to be… has to be better than that

Alec: You are better. 

Alec choked out. 

Alec: You’ve always been better. I’m the one who—

Alec’s voice broke. 

Alec: I’m the one who destroyed us. 

Prentiss worked frantically, trying to slow the bleeding, but it was too much. The trauma, the stress, the premature labor—Magnus’s body was shutting down. Hotch stood back, giving them space, his expression heavy with sorrow. This wasn’t a victory. This was a tragedy. 

Prentiss: Sir

Prentiss looked up, her eyes glistening

Prentiss: We're losing him

More agents arrived, more medics. They surrounded Magnus with equipment and urgency, but Alec could see the truth in their faces. He’d seen that look before, in combat, when someone was dying, and there was nothing anyone could do. 

Alec: I love you

Alec whispered against Magnus’s hair.

Alec: I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry. 

Magnus managed a smile, small and sad. 

Magnus: I know. I love you too. Even now. Even after everything. 

The contractions were coming faster. Magnus screamed, a sound that would haunt everyone present for the rest of their lives. The medics worked with desperate efficiency, delivering a baby boy who came into the world silent and still. 

Medic: No pulse. The baby is—

Alec: Keep trying! Don’t stop! Please don’t stop

But they did stop, after minutes that felt like hours. The baby—their son—was wrapped in a blanket and placed in Magnus’s arms. Magnus looked down at the tiny, perfect face, memorizing features that would never smile, never laugh, never grow. 

Magnus: He looks like you. He has your eyes

Alec couldn’t speak. Couldn’t breathe. Couldn’t process that this was happening, that he’d lost not just his freedom but his family, his future, everything. Magnus’s breathing became labored. Shallow. Irregular. 

Alec: Stay with me

Alec begged. 

Alec: Please, Magnus, stay with me

But Magnus was already slipping away, his hand going limp in Alec’s, his eyes losing focus. His last word was a name, spoken with love and regret: 

Magnus: Alexander…

And then he was gone. 

The forest was lit by portable lights and the strobing red-and-blue of emergency vehicles. Crime scene technicians worked in careful silence. The medical examiner’s van waited to transport Magnus’s body and the infant’s small form. Alec sat in the back of an ambulance, wrists cuffed, Morgan standing guard. He stared at nothing, his face empty, all the fight drained out of him. Reid approached cautiously. 

Reid: Alec, I need to ask you some questions. 

No response. 

Reid: How many victims were there

Silence.

Reid: Did you kill your uncle, Joe Lightwood

Finally, Alec looked up. His eyes were red-rimmed, haunted. 

Alec: Magnus killed Joe. I helped hide it, but Magnus did it. Joe was… Joe was going to take our baby. Said he’d raise ti right, the way he raised me. Magnus couldn’t let that happen. 

Reid nodded slowly. 

Reid: And the murders. Why did they start

Alec: Because I needed to feel something other than fear. My whole life, I was Joe’s prey. His property. After he died, I thought I’d feel free. But I just felt…empty. Lost. And then I realized I could be the hunter instead. I could make others feel the fear I’d lived with for twenty-five years. 

Reid: Magnus went along with it

Alec’s voice broke. 

Alec: I made him. He was pregnant, dependent on me. He was afraid of what I’d become but more afraid of being alone. So he helped me, and it destroyed him

Tears finally came, streaming down his face. 

Alec: I destroyed him. I destroyed everything

Hotch joined them. 

Hotch: Alexander Lightwood, you’re under arrest for the murders of Robert Harrison, James Mitchell, and David Chen. You have the right to remain silent—

Alec: I want to confess. 

Alec interrupted. 

Alec: Everything. All of it. Magnus tried to stop me at the end. He wanted to stop. But I wouldn’t let him. He was a victim too. Just like those men I killed. Just like me

Hotch’s expression was grim but not unsympathetic. 

Hotch: We’ll take your statement at the station. 

As they led Alec away, he looked back at the clearing where Magnus had died. 

Alec: Can I… can I at least say goodbye

Hotch hesitated, then nodded. Morgan walked Alec to where Magnus’s body lay covered by a white sheet, the small form of their baby wrapped in a separate blanket beside him. The medical examiner stepped back respectfully, giving them space. Alec’s legs buckled when he saw them. Morgan caught him, lowering him carefully to his knees. With shaking, cuffed hands, Alec reached out to pull back the sheet covering Magnus’s face. Even in death, Magnus was beautiful. His face was now peaceful, the pain and fear finally gone. His dark hair fell across his forehead, and someone—probably Prentiss—had closed his eyes gently. Alec’s thumb traced along Magnus’s cheekbone, a gesture he’d done a thousand times when Magnus was alive. 

Alec: Magnus,

He whispered, his voice breaking. 

Alec: My Magnus. I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry

The words seemed inadequate, microscopic against the enormity of what had happened. Alec had destroyed everything—their love, their future, their child, Magnus’s very life. And for what? Control? Power? The desperate need to prove he wasn’t the helpless child Joe had made him?

Alec: You tried to stop me

Alec continued, tears streaming down his face. 

Alec: After David Chen, you begged me to stop. You said we could run away, start over somewhere new. But I wouldn’t listen. I couldn’t stop. The hunting… it was the only time I didn’t hear Joe’s voice telling me I was nothing

He looked at the small bundle beside Magnus—their son, who would never open his eyes, never cry, ever know his parents. 

Alec: I wanted to be a good father. I wanted to give him everything Joe never gave me. Love. Safety. Freedom. But I became Joe instead. I became the monster

His hand hovered over the baby, afraid to touch, as if his very presence might contaminate even this small, innocent form. 

Alec: I killed you both. You and our baby. The only people who ever mattered to me

Morgan stood a few feet back, his jaw tight. He’d seen a lot in his years with the BAU—monsters who felt no remorse, killers who laughed at their victims’ pain. But this was different. This was a man genuinely destroyed by what he’d done, drawing in grief and self-loathing. It didn’t make Alec less guilty, but it made him human in a way that was almost harder to witness. 

Alec: I hope you’re together now

Alec whispered to Magnus. 

Alec: You and our baby boy. I hope wherever you are, you’re free from me. Free from all of this. 

He pressed his forehead against Magnus’s one last time, breathing in the scent of him—sandalwood and magic, fading now but still there. 

Alec: I love you. I’ll always love you. Even when they execute me, even in whatever comes after, I’ll love you

He turned his attention to the baby, finally gathering the courage to touch the tiny bundle. His cuffed hands trembled as he gently stroked the infant’s perfect little face. 

Alec: I’m sorry, son. I’m sorry you never got a chance. I’m sorry your father was a killer. I’m sorry for everything. 

The baby’s skin was cold. Alec had felt that coldness before, in the bodies of the men he’d killed. The realization that his son shared that quality—that death was death, whether innocent or guilty, whether deserved or not—nearly broke him completely. 

Morgan: What… what was his name going to be?

Morgan asked quietly, surprising himself with the question. Alec looked up, his face wet with tears. 

Alec: Rafael. After Magnus’s best friend. We were going to call him Rafael Santiago Lightwood.

His voice cracked. 

Alec: He’ll never have that name now. Never have anything

Morgan: He’ll have it

Morgan said, making a decision. 

Morgan: On the death certificate. Rafael Santiago Lightwood. Your son deserves a name. 

Something in Alec’s expression shifted—not gratitude exactly, but acknowledgment. A recognition that even in the midst of tragedy and justice, there could be small mercies.

Alec: Thank you

He whispered. Prentiss approached, her own eyes red-rimmed. 

Prentiss: Alexander, it’s time. 

Alec nodded. He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to Magnus’s forehead, then did the same to baby Rafael. 

Alec: Goodbye, my love. Goodbye, my son. I’ll carry you with me always. 

Morgan helped him to his feet. Alec took one last look at his family—the husband and child he’d destroyed through his own darkness—and then turned away. He didn’t look back again. Looking back would have killed him, and death was too easy. He deserved to live with what he’d done. As Morgan led him towards the waiting police vehicles, Alec said quietly, 

Alec: Agent Morgan?

Morgan: Yeah

Alec: When they put me in the ground someday… Could they bury me away from Magnus and Rafael? I don’t deserve to be near them. Not after what I did. 

Morgan’s grip on Alec’s arm tightened slightly

Morgan: That’s not my call to make. 

Alec: I know. But if anyone asks… tell them I don’t want to haunt them even in death. They deserve peace. 

They reached the vehicle. Morgan opened the back door, placing his hand on Alec’s head as he guided him inside—a routine gesture he’d done hundreds of times with hundreds of suspects. But this time felt different. Heavier. 

Morgan: For what it’s worth

Morgan said before closing the door

Morgan: I believe you loved them

Alec looked up at him, eyes hollow. 

Alec: Love isn’t enough, is it? I loved them, and I still destroyed them. 

Morgan: No. Love isn’t enough. Not without healing. Not without help.

He closed the door. Through the window, he watched Alec curl in on himself, shoulders shaking with silent sobs. Behind them, the medical examiner’s team was carefully preparing Magnus and Rafael for transport. Cirme scene techs were documenting everything. The machinery of justice was in motion, inexorable and necessary. Reid approached Morgan. 

Reid: Are you okay

Morgan: I don’t know. This case… It’s different

Reid: Because the UnSub was self-aware?

Morgan: Because everyone lost. The victims, their families, Alec, Magnus, the baby—everyone. There’s no winner here. Just different kinds of tragedy

Reid nodded, adjusting his glasses. 

Reid: Dostoevsky wrote, ‘Nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer; nothing is more difficult than to understand him.’ We understood Alec. We know exactly why he became what he became. But understanding doesn’t change the body count

Morgan: Three innocent men are dead. Four, if you count the baby. 

Reid: Five, if you count Magnus. He was a victim too, even if he was also a perpetrator

They stood in silence, watching as the police car pulled away with Alec inside. The first around them was peaceful now, birds singing, wind rustling through pine trees. Nature didn’t care about human tragedy. The woods would reclaim this clearing eventually, would erase the blood and pain and death. But people involved would carry it forever. Hotch joined them, his expression weary. 

Hotch: Local PD will process the scene. We’re free to go. 

Reid: What happens now

Hotch: Now we go home. We file our reports. We testify at trial. And we move on to the next case. 

Reid: Just like that

Hotch: No. Not just like that. We carry this with us, like we carry all of them. But we can’t let it stop us from doing our job. 

Hotch looked at both of them. 

Hotch: You two did good work today. You saved Benjamin Torres. You stopped two killers before they could claim more victims. That matters

Morgan: Does it? Feel like we were too late for the people who actually needed saving. 

Hotch: We were too late for Alec and Magnus. They were failed by every system that should have protected them—their family, social services, and mental health care. By the time we arrived, they were too far gone. But we weren’t too late for Torres. Or for the next person who would have stopped to help Magnus on that highway

It was the truth, but it felt like cold comfort. Morgan nodded slowly. 

Morgan: Let’s go home

The team gathered at the tail head where their vehicles waited. JJ and Rossi had been coordinating with local law enforcement, ensuring Benjamin Torres was safely reunited with the family, that the victims’ families were notified with compassion that all the procedural pieces were falling into place. 

JJ: Torres is asking for you

JJ told Morgan. 

JJ: He wants to thank the team

Morgan: He doesn’t need to thank us

JJ: Maybe not. But he needs to say it anyway. 

Benjamin Torres stood beside an ambulance, his wife Maria clutching his hand like she might never let go. His two children—Sofia, eight, and Diego, six—pressed against his sides. When he saw the BAU team approaching, his eyes filled with tears. 

Benjamin: Agents

He said, his voice thick with emotion. 

Benjamin: I don’t know how to… There aren’t words for…

Hotch: You don’t have to say anything

Benjamin: Yes, I do

Benjamin looked at each of them. 

Benjamin: You saved my life. Because of you, I get to go home to my family. I get to see my kids grow up. I get to…

He broke down, unable to continue. Maria stepped forward. 

Maria: Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Benjamin is the world to us. To know that he almost… 

She couldn’t finish either. Little Sofia looked up at Reid, who was closest to her height. 

Sofia: Are you a real FBI agent

Reid smiled, the first genuine smile since they’d arrived in Idaho

Reid: I am. We all are

Sofia: Did you catch the bad guys

Reid’s smile faded.

Reid: We did

Sofia: Good. My daddy says you saved him from the bad guys. That makes you heroes.

JJ: We’re not heroes, sweetheart

JJ said softly, crouching down to Sofia’s level. 

JJ: We’re just people who do a job. The real hero is your dad for being brave enough to survive. 

Benjamin shook his head. 

Benjamin: I wasn’t brave. I was terrified. I thought I’d never see my family again

Morgan: But you fought. You ran. You survived. That’s bravery.

Benjamin: The pregnant man

Benjamin said quietly, so the children wouldn’t hear

Benjamin: He warned me to run. Right at the beginning, before his husband came out of the trees. He could have stayed quiet, but he didn’t. Why?

Prentiss: Because part of him was still good. Part of him knew what they were doing was wrong, and he tried to give you a chance

Benjamin: He’s dead now, isn’t he? I heard the medics talking

Hotch: Yes. He and the baby both died. 

Benjamin closed his eyes, processing. 

Benjamin: I’m sorry. I know that sounds strange, being sorry for someone who tried to help kill me. But he seemed so sad. So trapped. Like he wanted to stop but didn’t know how. 

JJ: You’re not strange. You’re compassionate. Don’t lose that, even after what you’ve been through. 

Benjamin: Will I? Be okay, I mean? I keep seeing him—the hunter—in the trees. Keep hearing his voice. Keep running even though I’m standing still. 

Reid: You might always carry this with you. Trauma doesn’t just disappear. But you can learn to live with it, process it, and move forward. Consider talking to a therapist who specializes in PTSD. It helped me after… 

He trailed off, thinking of his own trauma. Benjamin nodded. 

Benjamin: I will. For my family. I owe them that much. 

Maria hugged him tighter. 

Maria: You owe us nothing except to be here. That’s enough. You’re enough. 

They said their goodbyes. As the Torres family drove away—alive, together, forever changed but still whole—the BAU team felt a small measure of satisfaction. One life saved. In a case defined by death and tragedy, that single life mattered. 

Rossi: Come on. 

Rossi said, heading towards their vehicles.

Rossi: Let’s go home

But as they drove away from the first, each team member carried pieces of the case with them. JJ thought about Magnus, pregnant and trapped. Morgan thought about Alec’s final goodbye to his family. Reid thought about cycles of abuse and whether they could ever truly be broken. Prentiss thought about the baby who never had a chance. Rossi thought about Joe Lightwood and the monster he’d created. Hotch thought about all of it—the failures of systems, the complexity of justice, the thin lines between victim and villain. The Idaho wilderness disappeared behind them, but its ghosts would linger.

The Idaho State Police interrogation room was small and sterile—gray walls, fluorescent lights, a metal table bolted to the floor. Alec stat on one side, still in cuffs, his face gaunt with grief and exhaustion. Hotch and Reid sat across from him, a recorder running between them 

Hotch: This is Special Agent Aaron Hotchner interviewing Alexander Lightwood. Also present is Dr. Spencer Reid. Alexander, you’ve waived your right to an attorney. Is that correct? 

Alec: Yes

Hotch: And you wish to confess to multiple murders

Alec: Yes

Alec’s voice was flat, dead. 

Alec: Robert Harrison, James Mitchell, David Chen. I killed them all. 

Hotch: Tell us about Robert Harrison. He was your first victim

Alec closed his eyes. 

Alec: I’d been thinking about if for weeks. After Joe died—after Magnus killed him—I felt this… void. Joe had controlled my entire life, and suddenly he was gone. I didn’t know who I was without him. Without someone to fear. Someone to hate. 

Reid: So you became what he was. You became the hunter.

Alec: I became worse than he was. Joe hunted animals. I hunted people

Alec opened his eyes, looking directly at them. 

Alec: Robert Harrison stopped when he saw Magnus by the side of the road. Magnus was crying, holding his stomach, saying he thought the baby was coming early. Robert immediately pulled over. Called 911. Tried to help

Reid: What happened then

Alec: I came out of the trees. Told him everything was fine, that help was coming. Magnus got in Robert’s car with him. I followed in our SUV. We led him to the hunting trails Joe used to take me to. Then… Then I gave him a head start. Told him if he made it to the highway, I’d let him go. 

Hotch: But you never intended to let him go

Alec: No. I hunted him for two hours. He was fit, fast. He almost made it. But in the end, he was just prey. They’re all just prey. 

Alec’s voice held a note of self-loathing. 

Alec: I took his wedding ring. It felt important somehow. Like I was taking proof that he was loved, that he mattered. Joe always said I didn’t matter. That I was nothing. But these men mattered to someone. 

Reid leaned forward.

Reid: Was taking their rings an attempt to prove your own worth? To show that you had power over people who were loved and valued

Alec: Maybe. I don’t know. I don’t know what I was thinking anymore. It all feels like a nightmare now. 

Hotch: Tell us about James Mitchell

Alec recited the details mechanically—the setup, the chase, the kill. Then David Chen. Each story was similar, variations on the same terrible theme. Magnus as bait. Alec as hunter. Men who stopped to help, paying for their kindness with their lives. 

Reid: Did Magnus ever try to stop you

Alec: Yes. After David Chen. Magnus said he couldn’t do it anymore, that we had to stop. We fought. I told him he was complicit, that he’d helped kill three men, that if he went to the police, he’d go to prison too. And I told him I’d never let him take our baby away from me. 

Hotch: You threatened him

Alec: I controlled him. Just like Joe controlled me. 

The realization seemed to break something in Alec

Alec: I became the monster I spent my whole life trying to escape. 

Silence filled the room, heavy and suffocating. 

Hotch: Joe Lightwood’s death. Tell us what really happened. 

Alec: Magnus killed him. But I wanted him dead too. I’d wanted it for years. 

Alec’s hands clenched. 

Alec: Joe found out Mangus was pregnant. He was furious—said two men raising a child was unnatural, that the baby would be messed up. He told us he was taking custody of the moment the baby was born. That he’d raise our son the way he’d raised me.

Reid’s expression tightened with understanding. 

Reid: That’s when Magnus snapped

Alec: We were at Joe’s house for dinner. It was a test—Joe liked to test me, see if I’d break. Magnus was in the kitchen helping with the dishes. I heard shouting. By the time I got there, Magnus had Joe on the ground, hands around his throat. Joe was laughing, even while he was dying. Laughing and saying ‘That baby’s mine. Your baby’s mine.’

Hotch: What did you do

Alec: I helped Magnus. I held Joe down while Magnus squeezed. And when it was over, we staged it to look like a heart attack. Hoe had a heart condition. It was believable. 

Alec looked up, his eyes haunted

Alec: I thought that would be the end. That we’d be free. But killing Joe just showed me that I could kill. That I could have that power. And once I knew that…

Reid: You couldn’t stop

Alec: I didn’t want to stop. For the first time in my life, I was in control. I was the predator, not the prey. It was intoxicating

Hotch: Until Magnus died. 

Alec’s composure finally shattered completely. Tears streamed down his face as his body shook with sobs. 

Alec: He died hating me. Our baby died because of me. Those men died because of me. Everything I touch turns to death and pain, just like Joe always said it would. 

Reid: Joe was wrong about you. You’re not what he made you. You became what you chose to become. There’s a difference. 

Alec: Is there

Alec looked at him with desperate eyes. 

Alec: Because I can’t tell anymore. I don’t know where Joe ends, and I begin. 

Hotch stood.

Hotch: Alexander Lightwood, based on your confession and the physical evidence, you’ll be charged with four counts of first-degree murder—Robert Harrison, James Mitchell, David Chen, and Joseph Lightwood. You’ll also face charges for kidnapping and assult. Do you understand

Alec: Yes

Hotch: Is there anything else you want to say

Alec thought for a long moment. 

Alec: Tell Benjamin Torres I’m sorry. Tell all their families I’m sorry. It won’t bring them back. It won’t fix what I broke. But… I’m sorry. 

The BAU jet flew through the night, carrying the team back to Quantico. The cabin was quiet except for the hums of engines. Everyone was lost in their own thoughts, processing what they’d witnessed. JJ sat with a cup of coffee, staring out the window at the darkness below. 

JJ: I keep thinking about Magnus. He was eight months pregnant. He should have been preparing a nursery, not helping his husband hunt people

Prentiss: Trauma bond

Prentiss said softly from across the aisle. 

Prentiss: Magnus probably thought he had no choice. Alexander was his protector and his captor. That's a devastating combination

Morgan: He did have a choice

Morgan said from his seat, though his voice lacked conviction

Morgan: He could have gone to the police. Could have left. 

Reid: Could he though? Think about the psychology. Magnus was isolated—no friends nearby, no family, completely dependent on Alexander financially and emotionally. He was pregnant, which made him even more vulnerable. And he'd helped kill Joe, which Alexander used as leverage. From Magnus's perspective, his options were stay and comply, or risk losing everything, including his baby

JJ: In the end, he lost everything anyway

Rossi set down his book. 

Rossi: What struck me was Alec’s self-awareness. He knew what he’d become. He understood that he was perpetuating the abuse cycle. But he couldn’t stop himself. 

Morgan: Or wouldn’t 

Hotch: Maybe both

Hotch interjected from his seat at the front. 

Hotch: Alexander's psychology was complex. He'd spent twenty-five years as a victim, powerless and controlled. The murders gave him a sense of power he'd never experienced. That's a powerful drug, especially for someone who'd been denied agency his entire life.

Reid: But it wasn’t real power. It was just the illusion of control. Real power would have been breaking the cycle, gettign help, becoming the father he wanted to be. Instead, he gae in to his worst impulses and destroyed everything

Prentiss sighed. 

Prentiss: And Magnus got caught in the crossfire. A victim who became a perpetrator who died a victim again. 

JJ: What happens to Alec now

Hotch: He’ll go to trial. With his confession and the physical evidence, conviction is certain. Idaho has the death penalty, and this case fits the criteria—multiple murders, premeditation, and exceptional cruelty. The DA will almost certainly seek execution.

A heavy silence settled over the cabin. 

JJ: He’ll never hold his son. Never know what it’s like to be a father. That was his choice, but… 

She touched her own stomach, thinking of her boys at home. 

JJ: What a waste. 

Morgan: Four men are dead because of his choices. Robert Harrison left behind a wife and two kids. James Mitchell was supposed to get married next month. David Chen had a sister who loved him. Benjamin Torres almost became victim number four. Yeah, Alec's story is tragic. But his victims' stories are worse 

Prentiss: They're all tragic. That's what makes this case so hard. There's no satisfaction in this outcome. Just layers of trauma and pain

Hotch stood, moving to the coffee pot. 

Hotch: This job requires us to see people at their absolute worst. To understand why they do what they do without excusing it. Alexander and Magnus were victims of terrible abuse. That abuse shaped them, damaged them, ultimately contributed to their actions. But in the end, they made choices. They chose to kill. They chose to destroy innocent lives. Understanding their pain doesn't absolve them of responsibility

Reid: What about Joe? He started this whole chain of events. His abuse created the conditions that led to his own murder and the murders that followed. 

Morgan: Joe was a monster. He beat a child, controlled him, and psychologically tortured him for decades. If anyone deserved what happened to them, it was him. 

Rossi: Deserved is a strong word. Joe's death was arguably self-defense, or defense of others—specifically, defense of the unborn baby he threatened to take and abuse. But that doesn't mean murder was the only option. They could have gotten restraining orders, moved away, contacted authorities

JJ: Abuse victims don't always think clearly about their options. Fear overrides logic. And after years of conditioning, Magnus and Alec probably couldn't imagine a world where they could escape Joe legally. Killing him seemed like the only solution

Reid: And once they’d crossed that line. It became easier to cross it again. The psychological barrier against murder was gone. Alexander’s subsequent killings were almost inevitable from a behavioral standpoint

Prentiss looked troubled. 

Prentiss: So what’s the answer? How do we stop the cycle

Hotch: We can't always. Some damage is too deep, some trauma too profound. But we can try to identify at-risk individuals, provide resources, intervene when we see signs of escalation. The problem is that people like Alexander hide well. He was an honorable soldier, a quiet neighbor, someone who seemed to have his life together. The monster only emerged under specific circumstances

JJ: The pregnancy. That was the trigger. The impending fatherhood forced Alexander to confront what had been done to him as a child. 

Reid: And rather than seeking help to process that trauma, he acted it out through violence. He became the abuser, the controller, the one with power over life and death. 

Morgan shook his head. 

Morgan: I feel for the kid he was. Ten years old, being dragged into those woods, forced to hunt or starve. That’s torture. But the man he became? The man who killed three innocent people and got his husband and baby killed? I don’t have sympathy for that man

Rossi: You don’t have to. Sympathy and understanding are different things. We can understand why Alexander did what he did without sympathizing with his choices

The jet began its descent into Quantico. The team started gathering their belongings, preparing to return to their lives, their families, their routines. But this case would stay with them, as the worst ones always did.

JJ: I'm going to hug my boys extra tight tonight.

Prentiss: Give Michael and Henry a hug from all of us

Morgan nodded. 

Morgan: I might call my mom. Tell her I love her.

Reid was quiet for a moment

Reid: I think I'll visit my mother this weekend. She's been asking, and... life's too short. You never know when someone might be gone. 

Hotch watched his team, feeling a surge of pride mixed with sorrow. They'd done their job. They'd caught the killers, saved Benjamin Torres, and brought justice for the victims. But they were also human beings who'd witnessed tragedy and death, who'd seen the worst of what people could do to each other.

Hotch: Good work, everyone. Get some rest. We'll debrief in the morning

As the jet touched down, each member of the BAU carried with them the weight of what they'd seen—the hunter and the hunted, the abused and the abuser, the fine line between victim and perpetrator. They carried the memory of Magnus's last breath, of an infant who never drew a first one, of Alexander's broken confession. They carried it because someone had to. Because those who died deserved to be remembered. And because understanding darkness was the only way to fight it.

*Six Months Later*

The Idaho State Prison was a stark concrete fortress surrounded by razor wire and guard towers. Hotch and Reid walked through multiple security checkpoints before being led to a small visitation room. Alexander Lightwood looked different. Thinner, grayer, with a hollowness around his eyes that spoke of sleepless nights and consuming guilt. His orange prison jumpsuit hung loose on his frame. He'd been classified as a suicide risk and was under constant observation. He looked up when they entered, surprise flickering across his face. 

Alec: Agents. I wasn't expecting visitors.

Hotch: May we sit?

Alec gestured to the chairs. 

Alec: Sure. Not like I have other plans.

They sat. An uncomfortable silence stretched between them.

Alec: Why are you here? The case is closed. I confessed. I'm awaiting trial. Death penalty, they're saying. Not that it matters. I've been dead inside since Magnus... 

He couldn't finish.

Reid: We have some information we thought you should know. About your uncle Joe.

Alec's expression hardened. 

Alec: What about him?

Hotch: We did a more thorough investigation after closing the case. Talked to some of Joe's old neighbors, people he worked with. Multiple people reported suspicions of abuse over the years. One neighbor tried to call CPS when you were twelve, but Joe was never investigated.

Alec: Why are you telling me this?

Hotch: Because you need to know it wasn't your fault. The system failed you. Adults who should have protected you looked the other way. Joe's abuse was documented, suspected, reported—and nothing was done. You were a child who needed help, and that help never came.

Alec's eyes glistened. 

Alec: So what? That's supposed to make me feel better? I still killed people. I still destroyed Magnus and our baby. Knowing that the system failed me doesn't change what I became.

Hotch: No. But it matters. You were a victim long before you became a perpetrator. That doesn't excuse your actions, but it explains them. And it means there's a chance—small, but real—that with proper intervention years ago, none of this would have happened.

Alec: Are you trying to give me hope? 

Alec laughed bitterly. 

Alec: Hope for what? I'm going to die in here, either by my own hand or by lethal injection. There's no hope for me.

Reid leaned forward. 

Reid: Actually, there might be. Your defense attorney is building a case based on prolonged childhood trauma, PTSD, and diminished capacity. The prosecution is fighting it, but there's precedent for considering abuse history in sentencing.

Alec: So what, life in prison instead of execution? That's not mercy, Dr. Reid. That's just a longer death sentence.

Reid: Maybe. Or maybe it's time to process what happened to you, to get actual help, to understand yourself. Not for redemption—I'm not sure that's possible after what you've done. But for understanding. For truth.

Alec studied them both. 

Alec: You came all this way to tell me I was a victim? That the system failed me? 

Hotch: We came to tell you that what happened to you mattered. That the child you were deserved protection and love, and didn't receive it. That doesn't absolve the adult you became, but it honors the child who suffered.

Tears rolled down Alec's face. 

Alec: I think about them every day. Harrison, Mitchell, Chen. I remember their faces when they realized they were going to die. I remember how they begged. How they ran.

His voice broke. 

Alec: I remember Magnus's face when he was dying, when our baby was born, already gone. I remember everything, and I can't make it stop.

Hotch: Good, 

Hotch said, and Alec looked up in shock. 

Hotch: You should remember. They deserve to be remembered. Your victims, Magnus, your son—they all deserve to stay in your memory. That's the least you can give them now. 

Alec: Agent Hotchner, can I ask you something?

Hotch: Yes.

Alec: Do you think... do you think Magnus forgave me? At the end?

Hotch considered carefully. 

Hotch: I think Magnus loved you. Even at the end, even after everything, he loved you. Love and forgiveness are complicated, especially in relationships marked by trauma and codependency. But yes, I think in his way, Magnus forgave you. The question is whether you can forgive yourself.

Alec: I can't. I never will.

Hotch: Then learn to live with that. Learn to carry the weight of what you've done. It's the only thing you can do now. 

They stood to leave. At the door, Reid turned back. 

Reid: Alec, for what it's worth—I'm sorry for what happened to you as a child. No one deserves that.

Alec nodded, unable to speak. As they walked back through the prison, past cells and guards and the endless gray concrete.

Reid: Do you think we helped him?

Hotch: I don't know. But he needed to hear it. Even monsters were children once. Even people who do terrible things were hurt first. It doesn't change anything, but it matters.

Reid: Does it? Matter, I mean?

Hotch: It has to. Because if we stop seeing the humanity in everyone—even the worst among us—then we become what we fight against. We have to remember that people aren't born evil. They're made that way, through trauma and pain and the failure of systems meant to protect them.

Reid: But they're still responsible for their choices.

Hotch: Absolutely. Understanding isn't absolution. Alec made his choices. He killed three men. He contributed to Magnus's death and his son's death. He deserves to be punished for that. But he also deserves to be seen as a whole person—victim and perpetrator, traumatized and dangerous, human and monstrous.

Reid nodded slowly. 

Reid: It's complicated.

Hotch: It always is. That's why we do what we do.

They emerged into the sunlight, leaving the prison behind. Somewhere inside those walls, Alexander Lightwood sat in his cell, surrounded by ghosts—Magnus, their son, Robert Harrison, James Mitchell, David Chen, and the child he'd once been, lost forever in the Idaho woods with a bow in his hands and his uncle's voice in his head. The BAU's jet waited to take them home. Another case solved, another monster understood but not forgiven, another tragic reminder that the line between victim and villain was sometimes drawn in blood and trauma, and that crossing it could destroy not just lives but souls. Justice had been served. But healing—real healing—remained elusive for everyone touched by this case. Some wounds, after all, never truly close.

*Three Years Later* 

The Idaho State Prison infirmary was quiet in the early morning hours. Alexander Lightwood lay on a narrow bed, his body finally giving up after months of refusing food or willing himself toward the end. The doctors had tried interventions, forced feeding, and psychiatric holds. But Alec had found ways around everything. His body was a prison he’d learned to escape. The cancer had been unexpected, aggressive, and untreatable by the time they found it. The doctors said six months. Alec had been almost grateful. The state wouldn't get to execute him after all. He'd deny them that satisfaction, that closure. He would choose his own end, in his own way. A prison chaplain sat in the corner, reading quietly. Alec had never been religious, but the chaplain came anyway, offering comfort Alec didn't want and couldn't accept. How could there be forgiveness for what he'd done? How could any god welcome him? His breathing was shallow now, labored. Each breath felt like lifting a mountain. The morphine made everything soft and distant, but it couldn't touch the pain in his soul—the memories that played on endless repeat. Magnus's face as he died. Rafael's tiny, perfect stillness. Robert Harrison's last desperate run. James Mitchell's pleading eyes. David Chen's shocked realization. 

Alec: I’m sorry

Alec whispered to the empty room

Alec: I’m so sorry

His vision blurred. The fluorescent lights overhead seemed to brighten, then fade. He felt his heart stuttering, slowing. This was it. Finally. The end he'd been waiting for, working toward, desperate to reach. The monitors began to alarm. The chaplain stood, calling for nurses. But Alec was already gone, already slipping away from his broken body, from the prison and the pain and the unbearable weight of what he'd done.

*Between*

There was darkness first. Deep and complete. Alec floated in it, aware but without form, without substance. Was this death? Just... nothing? An eternity of void? He deserved worse. Then, gradually, light began to seep in. Soft and golden, like sunrise through trees. Alec became aware of the ground beneath his feet—or the idea of feet, the memory of having a body. The light grew stronger, and he found himself standing in a forest. But not just any forest. These were the woods where Magnus had died. Where Radael had been born still and silent. Where everything had ended. Alec’s throat tightened with panic. Was this his hell? To relive that moment forever?

????: Hello, Alexander. 

That voice froze him in place. Impossible. It couldn’t be. Alec turned slowly. Magnus stood in a small clearing bathed in golden light. He looked as he had before—before the pregnancy, before the fear, before the blood. He wore a simple outfit, his dark hair falling across his forehead in that familiar way. His eyes, those beautiful eyes, met Alec's with an expression Alec couldn't name. 

Alec: Magnus?

Alec’s voice broke. 

Alec: No. No, you can’t be here. I’m hallucinating. The morphine—

Magnus: You’re not hallucinating. And you’re not dreaming. You died, Alexander. And somehow, impossibly, you’re here. 

Alec: Where is here

Magnus: I don’t know exactly. Somewhere between. Somewhere we can talk before… whatever comes next. 

Alec took a step back. 

Alec: I don’t deserve to see you. I don’t deserve to hear your voice. I killed you, Magnus. I killed our baby. I—

Magnus: I know what you did. I was there, remember

Alec: They whey aren’t you angry? Why aren’t you screaming at me, hating me? 

Alec’s hand trembled. 

Alec: I destroyed everything. Our love, our life, our family. I became the monster I swore I’d never be. 

Magnus was quiet for a long moment. When he spoke, his voice was sad but not cruel.

Magnus: I was angry, for a while. In those first moments after death, I raged at you. At Joe. At the universe for making us the way we were. But anger is exhausting, Alec. And here, in this place, I can see things more clearly

Alec: See what

Magnus: That you were broken long before I met you. That Joe twisted you into something you never wanted to be. That the cycle of abuse doesn't end just because the abuser dies—it echoes through generations, through lives, destroying everything it touches

Alec: That doesn’t excuse what I did. 

Magnus: No. It doesn't. You made choices, Alec. Terrible choices. You killed innocent people. You manipulated me, controlled me, and made me complicit in your darkness. You destroyed our chance at happiness, at being parents, at growing old together. 

His voice wavered 

Magnus: You destroyed me

Alec fell to his knees. 

Alec: I know. God, Magnus, I know. I've replayed every moment for three years. Every decision, every murder, every time I saw the fear in your eyes and ignored it. I became Joe. I became everything I hated

Magnus: Yes. You did. 

The words hit like physical blows. Alec bowed his head, waiting for judgment, for damnation, for whatever punishment he'd earned.

Magnus: But, 

Magnus continued, and Alec looked up in shock, 

Magnus: You also loved me. Didn't you? Somewhere beneath the damage and the darkness, you loved me.

Alec: With everything I had. With everything I was. You were the only good thing in my entire cursed life, Magnus. You and Rafael. Loving you was the only time I felt human. 

Magnus: I know

Magnus took a step closer. 

Magnus: I felt it. Even at the end, even when I was dying, I felt your love. It was twisted, damaged, possessive—but it was real

Alec: Does that matter? Does love matter when it destroys

Magnus: I don’t know. Maybe that’s what we’re here to figure out

A sound drew their attention. From deeper in the forest came a soft cry—not of pain but of presence. Of life. Alec's heart stopped. 

Alec: Is that…

Magnus smiled, tears in his eyes. 

Magnus: Come and see

They walked together through the golden forest. The trees seemed alive with light, and Alec realized this place operated on different rules than the world they'd left. This was a place of spirit, of essence, of things beyond flesh and blood. In another clearing, smaller and more intimate, something waited. A child. Not an infant—Rafael appeared as he might have at three or four years old, playing in a patch of wildflowers. His hair was dark like Alec's, his features carrying Magnus's elegance. He looked up when they approached, and his eyes—oh god, his eyes were Alec's eyes, grey and bright. 

Rafael: Papa!

Rafael ran to Magnus, who swept him up with a joy so pure it hurt to witness. 

Magnus: Hello, my darling boy

Magnus murmured, holding him close. 

Magnus: Did you have fun playing

Rafael: Uh-huh! I saw butterflies and birds and… 

Rafael trailed off, noticing Alec standing at the edge of the clearing. 

Rafael: Who’s that

Magnus set Rafael down gently, kneeling to his level. 

Magnus: That’s… that’s your other father. His name is Alexander

Rafael studied Alec with curious, innocent eyes. 

Rafael: Why is he sad

Magnus: Because he made some very big mistakes

Magnus said carefully. 

Magnus: And he’s sorry for them

Rafael: Like when I knocked over the flowers yesterday

Magnus: Bigger than that, sweetheart. Much bigger

Alec couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe. His son—the child who’d died before drawing breath—was alive here. Was whole. Was beautiful. And had no memory of Alec at all. 

Rafael: Should I go say hi

Magnus: That’s up to you, Rafael. But remember what we talked about? About forgiveness

Rafael nodded seriously. Then, with the fearless confidence of childhood, he walked up to Alec. 

Rafael: Hi. I’m Rafael Santiago Lightwood. Are you really my other daddy

Alec dropped to his knees, bringing himself to Rafael’s height. Tears streamed down his face. 

Alec: Yes. I am. Or I was supposed to be. I failed you before you even had a chance, Rafael. I’m so sorry. 

Rafael tilted his head, considering. Then, with devastating simplicity, he said.

Rafael: Papa says everybody makes mistakes. He says the important thing is being sorry and trying to be better

Alec: I can’t be better. It’s too late for me

Rafael: It’s never too late

Rafael said with the certainty only children possess. 

Rafael: That’s what Papa says

He held out his small hand. Alec stared at it—this offer of connection, of forgiveness he didn’t deserve. With shaking fingers, he took his son’s hand. The moment they touched, something shifted. Warmth flooded through Alec, carrying with it impressions, feelings, understanding. He saw Rafael’s existence here—playing, learning, growing in this strange between-place. He saw Magnus caring for their son, teaching him, loving him. He saw what should have been, what could have been, if Alec hadn’t destroyed everything. 

Alec: I wish I could have been your father. Really been your father. Taught you to fish, helped you with homework, scared away your nightmares. All the things fathers are supposed to do. 

Rafael: You still can. Maybe not the same way, but… you’re here now

Magnus approached, standing beside their son. 

Magnus: The question isn’t whether you deserve forgiveness, Alexander. The question is what you do with it. 

Alec: I don’t understand. 

Magnus: This place—wherever we are—it’s not heaven or hell. It’s somewhere we work through what we were, what we did, who we want to become. I’ve been here three years, working through my own guilt, my own complicity in those murders. Helping Rafael grow despite never having lived

Alec: And me? What happens to me

Magnus: That depends on you. You can stay trapped in your guilt, drowning in what you did. Or you can do the hard work of understanding, processing, changing. Not for redemption—I don’t know if that’s even possible. But for growth. For the chance to be something other than what Joe made you

Alec: I don’t know it I can

Magnus: Neither do I. But I’m willing to find out. For Rafael’s sake, if nothing else. He deserves to know both of his fathers, even here

Alec looked at his son, still holding his hand, looking up at him with eyes full of innocent hope. Then he looked at Magnus, the man he’d loved and destroyed, who somehow stood here offering not forgiveness exactly, but possibility. 

Alec: I don’t deserve this

Magnus: No. You don’t. But maybe that’s not the point. Maybe the point is what we build from here

Rafael tugged on Alec’s hand. 

Rafael: Will you stay? Will you play with me

It was the simplest question with the most complicated answer. Staying meant facing what he’d done, every day forever. Staying meant living with the weight of his crimes and the impossibility of making amends. Staying meant looking at Magnus and Rafael and remembering that he was the reason they’d died. But it also meant not running anymore. Not hiding. Finally, finally facing the truth of what he was and trying—just trying—to be something else. 

Alec: Yes. Yes. I’ll stay

Rafael smiled, bright and beautiful. 

Rafael: Good! Want to see my butterfly garden

As his son pulled him toward the wildflowers, chattering about colors and wings and magic, Alec looked back at Magnus. The man he’d loved. The man he’d destroyed. The man who stood here in this impossible place, offering the things Alec had thought he’d never receive. Not forgiveness. Not absolution. Not redemption. But a chance. Magnus nodded once, acknowledging something unspoken between them. They had eternity to work through what they’d been, what they’d done to each other, what they could become. It wouldn’t be easy. It wouldn’t erase the past. The victims were still dead. The pain was still real. The crimes were still unforgivable. But here, in this place between life and death, between justice and mercy, between the people they’d been and the people they might yet become—here, they had time. And perhaps, in the end, that was enough. Alec knelt in the wildflowers with his son, listening to Rafael’s excited descriptions of butterflies and learning, for the first time in his life, what it felt like to be at peace. The forest glowed golden around them. Somewhere in the distance, the souls of Robert Harrison, James Mitchell, and David Chen had found their own peace, their own healing. The world continued turning without them all. But here, in the small clearing, a broken family began the long, impossible work of becoming whole. Not healed. Never that. But whole. 

Chapter Text

The morning fog rolled thick through Frick Park, turning the Pittsburgh landscape into something ethereal and unsettling. Detective Sarah Chang had seen her share of bodies in twelve years with the Pittsburgh PD, but nothing quite prepared her for what waited on the park bench overlooking the duck pond. Two men. Mid-thirties. Well-dressed in expensive casual wear, one in a tailored blazer and dark jeans, the other in a cashmere sweater and slacks. They sat side by side, positioned as if they’d simply stopped to enjoy the view together. One man’s arm draped naturally over the other’s shoulder. Their heads tilted toward each other in an intimate pose that would have been touching if not for the lividity in their skin and the deep purple ligature marks circling both their necks.

Detective Hernandez: Jesus Christ.

Her partner, Detective Mike Hernandez, breathed beside her. 

Detective Hernandez: What kind of sick—

Detective Chang: Don't touch anything.

Chang cut him off, already pulling out her phone

Detective Chang: We need the ME, and we need the FBI. Now. 

Hernandez moved closer, his experienced eye cataloging details. 

Detective Hernandez: No defensive wounds visible. No signs of struggle in the immediate area. Whoever did this had complete control.

Chang crouched down, careful not to disturb the scene. That's when she noticed the accessories. The first victim wore a Patek Philippe Nautilus on his left wrist—she recognized it because her ex-husband had obsessed over the model before their divorce. Retail price: somewhere north of $80,000. The second victim had a platinum Cartier bracelet catching the weak morning light, probably worth $15,000 or more. 

Detective Chang: Check their wallets. Carefully. 

Hernandez extracted two leather wallets using gloved hands. 

Detective Hernandez: Michael Reeves, 34, address in Shadyside. And David Park, 31, Squirrel Hills.

He paused, flipping open the billfolds. 

Detective Hernandez: Reeves has photos of two kids; maybe five and seven years old. Wedding ring tan line, but no ring. Park has a photo of himself with another guy, arms around each other. Pride flag in the background. 

Detective Chang: So, Reeves is recently divorced or separated, and Park is openly gay and in a relationship. Any connection between them?

Detective Hernandez: Not that I can see. Different neighborhoods, different tax brackets based on the address. Nothing obvious linking them.

Chang stood, surveying the scene with growing unease. The positioning was too careful, too considered. The expensive gifts were placed on corpses like offerings. The complete absence of panic or chaos. This wasn't a crime of passion or opportunity. This was art. Sick, twisted art, but art nonetheless. 

Detective Chang: Call the FBI. Tell them we need the Behavioral Analysis Unit. We're not equipped for this. 

The BAU conference room at Quantico was silent except for the rhythmic clicking of Penelope Garcia's keyboard. The team sat around the table, their faces illuminated by the glow of the flat screen displaying crime scene photos from Pittsburgh. 

JJ: Two victims, both male, ages 31 and 34.

JJ began, standing at the front of the room with a laser pointer. 

JJ: Found in Frick Park, Pittsburgh, approximately 6 AM yesterday by a jogger. Cause of death for both: ligature strangulation, likely with a silk scarf or similar high-end fabric based on the patterning of the ligature marks. 

She clicked to the next image, a close-up of the victims' posed position. 

JJ: The staging is what caught Pittsburgh PD's attention. The victims are positioned to appear as a couple enjoying a quiet moment together. But according to all available records, these men had never met. 

Morgan: The gifts are the real signature.

Derek Morgan added, pulling up images of the watch and bracelet. 

Morgan: Patek Philippe Nautilus, approximately $80,000. Cartier Love bracelet in platinum, approximately $15,000. Both items were placed on the victims post-mortem. The ME confirmed neither item belonged to the victims. 

Dr. Spencer Reid leaned forward, his eyes rapidly scanning the details on the screen. 

Reid: The cognitive dissonance between the violence of strangulation and the tenderness of the staging suggests two distinct psychological motivations operating simultaneously. The kill itself was efficiently controlled—almost clinical. But the post-mortem presentation is intimate, romantic even. 

Prentiss: Two unsubs. 

Emily Prentiss said, her profiler instincts already assembling the puzzle.

Prentiss: Working together. One handles the physical act of murder, the other handles the emotional staging. 

Rossi: A team. 

David Rossi agreed, his decades of experience evident in his tone. 

Rossi: Probably a couple. The romantic staging, the expensive gifts—this is about their relationship, not about the victims themselves.

Aaron Hotchner studied the photos with characteristic intensity, his dark eyes missing nothing. 

Hotch: The level of control required to subdue two adult men without significant struggle, the precision of the strangulation, the complete lack of forensic evidence—our first unsub has training. Military, law enforcement, or private security. Someone who knows how to kill efficiently and clean up afterward. 

JJ: And the second unsub

Prentiss: Someone with refined aesthetic sensibilities. Someone who understands luxury goods, who can select appropriate 'gifts,' who sees the victims as elements in a tableau rather than as people. Interior designer, art curator, someone in the fashion industry, perhaps. 

Garcia's face appeared on the screen, her usual colorful energy dimmed by the case's darkness.

Garcia: My divine crime-fighters, I hate to be the bearer of worse news, but this isn't their first rodeo. I've been running the MO through ViCAP, and I found three similar cases going back eighteen months. 

The screen shifted to display a timeline. 

Garica: First kill: Cleveland, Ohio, eighteen months ago. Single male victim, strangled, posed on a park bench, gifted with an expensive watch. Second kill: Columbus, fourteen months ago. Two male victims, strangled and posed together, were gifted with designer accessories. Third kill: Cleveland again, eight months ago. Single male victim, same MO. 

Reid: Five victims total. And the cooling-off period is decreasing. Eighteen months to fourteen months—four months between kills. Then six months. Then we jump to three weeks ago for the Pittsburgh murders. They're escalating rapidly.

Hotch: The kills aren't satisfying them anymore. Whatever psychological need they're fulfilling through murder requires more frequent repetition. That makes them increasingly dangerous and increasingly likely to make mistakes.

Morgan pulled up the victimology files. 

Morgan: All victims are male, ages 28-38, professionally successful, well-groomed. Most either openly gay or recently separated from their wives. The unsubs are selecting a very specific type.

Prentiss: They're selecting suurogates.

Prentiss said slowly, the profile coming together in her mind. 

Prentiss: Men who represent something to them. Maybe what they see in each other. Maybe what they wish they could be. The victims are stand-ins for the relationship they're trying to preserve. 

Rossi: preserve through murder. That's a hell of a couple's therapy session. 

Hotch stood, his decision made. 

Hotch: Wheels up in thirty. Garcia, keep digging into the victimology. There has to be a connection point; somewhere the unsubs are encountering these victims. Find it. 

Garcia: On it like white on rice, sir.

Garcis replied, her fingers already flying across her keyboard. As the team dispersed to prepare for the flight, Reid lingered over the crime scene photos. There was something about the careful staging, the expensive gifts, the romantic positioning that spoke to a deep psychological need. These unsubs weren't just killing together—they were using murder as a way to express something they couldn't express any other way. Which meant they were far more dangerous than the average killers, because they believed—truly believed—that what they were doing meant something. 

The Pittsburgh field office was a hive of controlled chaos when the BAU arrived. Detective Chang met them at the entrance, her expression a mixture of relief and grim determination. 

Detective Chang: Agents, thank God you're here. We've got another one. 

The team exchanged sharp glances. 

Hotch: When.

Detective Chang: Body was discovered two hours ago. Same park, different location. Single male victim, posed on a bench overlooking the Japanese garden. Strangled with what appears to be the same type of ligature. And he's wearing jewelry that doesn't belong to him—a Rolex Submariner and a custom signet ring with sapphires. 

Hotch: Show us.

Hotch said, and the team followed Chang to the waiting SUVs. Frick Park looked different in daylight, but no less unsettling. The crime scene was cordoned off, techs processing every inch of ground around a solitary park bench. The victim sat alone, his hands folded peacefully in his lap, his head tilted back as if enjoying the autumn sun. The expensive watch glinted on his wrist, and the signet ring caught the light like a promise. Reid approached the body carefully, his analytical mind cataloging every detail. 

Reid: The positioning is different this time. He's alone, not paired with another victim. The posture is more... waiting. Expectant. 

Prentiss: Like he's waiting for someone who never came. 

Prentiss observed, crouching beside Reid. She studied the victim's face; handsome, probably in his late twenties, with carefully styled hair and manicured nails. 

Prentiss: This one is younger than the others. And look at his clothing—designer labels, fitted perfectly. He took care of his appearance.

Morgan walked the perimeter of the scene, noting sight lines and access points. 

Morgan: This spot is more isolated than the first scene. Less visible from the main paths. Whoever did this knew the park layout intimately, knew when it would be empty, knew exactly where to position the body for maximum impact when discovered. 

Rossi examined the bench itself, looking for any trace evidence the techs might have missed. 

Rossi: The bench faces the Japanese garden—one of the most beautiful spots in the park. This isn't just about displaying the body. It's about context. About creating a scene within a scene. 

The medical examiner, Dr. Patricia Wells, approached with her preliminary findings. 

Dr. Wells: Time of death between 10 PM and midnight last night. Cause of death is consistent with the previous victims—ligature strangulation with a smooth, high-quality fabric. No defensive wounds, minimal signs of struggle. Toxicology is pending, but I'd bet we find traces of a sedative. No way a healthy adult male goes down this easy without some pharmaceutical assistance. 

JJ: What about the jewelry

Dr. Wells: Placed post-mortem, just like the others. The watch alone is probably worth $15,000. The ring is custom—I'm having your technical analyst track the designer, but it's clearly bespoke work. We're talking serious money. 

Hotch pulled out his phone. 

Hotch: Garcia, we need ID on our latest victim

Garcia: Already on it, sir. 

Garcia's voice came through the speaker.

Garcia: Victim is Anthony Johnson, 29, works as a commercial real estate broker, lives in Lawrenceville. According to his social media, he was openly gay, recently ended a long-term relationship, and was—oh God—he posted about going on a first date last night. At 8 PM. Location tag shows a wine bar in Shadyside.

The team absorbed this information grimly. Their unsubs weren't just hunting randomly—they were selecting victims who were vulnerable, who were putting themselves out in the world, who were looking for connection. 

Hotch: We need to canvass the wine bar. 

Hotch instructed Chang.

Hotch: Get security footage, witness statements, credit card receipts. Our unsubs are comfortable in upscale environments. They blend in. One or both of them was probably at that bar last night.

As the team worked the scene, Reid stood apart, staring at the solitary victim on the bench. Something about the kill felt different. The earlier murders had been about pairing, about creating couples out of strangers. But this victim sat alone. 

Reid: The dynamic is evolving

He said quietly, and Prentiss moved to stand beside him. 

Prentiss: How so

Reid: The previous scenes were about unity, about creating couples, about the idea of togetherness. But this...

Reid gestured to the lonely figure on the bench. 

Reid: This is about longing. About waiting. About the space between connection and isolation. The unsubs are telling a different story now. 

Prentiss studied the scene with new eyes, seeing what Reid saw. 

Prentiss: They're not just recreating their relationship anymore. They're expressing something deeper. Something about the fear of being alone, maybe. Or the beauty of waiting for someone you love. 

Reid: Which means their psychology is more complex than we initially thought. They're not just killing to maintain a bond. They're using the victims as a canvas to express emotions they can't articulate any other way. 

Prentiss: That makes them artists. Deeply disturbed artists, but artists nonetheless. And artists rarely stop creating until they're forced to. 

The Pittsburgh field office conference room had been converted into a command center. Evidence boards lined the walls, victim photos arranged in chronological order. The team gathered to deliver their profile to the assembled local law enforcement. Hotch stood in front, his presence commanding immediate attention. 

Hotch: We're looking for a team of two individuals in a committed romantic relationship. Based on victimology, methodology, and psychological indicators, we believe both unsubs are male, ages 30-45, in a same-sex relationship characterized by intense emotional connection and mutual dependency. 

Reid stepped forward, gesturing to the evidence board. 

Reid: The partnership operates on complementary skill sets. UnSub One—we'll call him the Executor—possesses tactical ability and physical strength to subdue adult male victims efficiently. He likely has a background in military, law enforcement, or private security. His kills are precise, controlled, and show professional-level competency. This is someone who has been trained to kill and has the discipline to do so without leaving forensic evidence. 

Prentiss took over smoothly.

Prentiss: UnSub Two—the Architect—is responsible for victim selection and post-mortem staging. He has sophisticated aesthetic sensibilities, extensive knowledge of luxury goods, and likely works in a creative field that grants him access to upscale environments. Interior design, high-end retail, art curation, and luxury event planning. He's comfortable navigating wealthy social circles and has the social intelligence to identify vulnerable individuals within those spaces. 

Morgan pulled up images of the gifts left on victims. 

Morgan: The gifts are central to understanding their psychology. Unlike traditional serial killers who take trophies from victims, these unsubs give gifts to their victims. Expensive, carefully selected items that transform the bodies into something more than a crime scene—they become installations. Art pieces. The unsubs are creating meaning through their kills, not just satisfying bloodlust. 

Rossi addressed the room with the gravity of decades of experience. 

Rossi: What we're seeing here is extremely rare; a genuinely bonded pair of killers who appear to be deeply in love with each other. Most killer couples are characterized by dominance and submission, manipulation, or mutual pathology. But these two seem to have a genuine emotional connection that they're expressing through murder. 

Detective Chang: Why male victims

Detective Chang asked from the back of the room. JJ continued the profile. 

JJ: The victims represent something specific and meaningful to the unsubs. Each man fits a precise type—professional, attractive, well-groomed, recently single or newly dating. We believe these men represent either idealized versions of the unsubs themselves, or they represent the love the unsubs have for each other. By killing and staging these men, they're creating tableaus that express emotions they can't express through conventional means. 

Prentiss: The relationship between the unsubs is evolving. The escalating frequency of kills—from months between murders to weeks to now days—suggests they're using the kills to communicate with each other. Each murder is a love letter, a gift from one to the other. The more frequently they kill, the more intense their emotional commincaiton becomes. 

FBI Agent: But why now? Why start killing eighteen months ago?

Reid: There was likely a triggering event. A crisis in their relationship, a major life change, or the realization that they couldn't express their feelings through conventional means. For some reason, these two individuals—who genuinely love each other—found that murder was the only way they could truly communicate the depth of their emotions. 

Hotch's voice cut through the room like a blade. 

Hotch: The most recent kill shows evolution in their pattern. The victim was staged alone, positioned as if waiting for someone. This suggests the unsubs are exploring new themes in their work—loneliness, longing, the anticipation of connection. They're not just killing anymore. They're creating a narrative, telling a story through their victims. 

Rossi: That makes them extremely dangerous, because they're not going to stop until their story is complete. And we don't know how many chapters they have planned. 

Detective Chang: How do we find them

Morgan pointed to the victim files.

Morgan: We look for the intersection of their skill sets and their access to victims. Garcia is running cross-reference on all victims' recent activities, focusing on upscale venues, luxury services, and high-end social events. 

As if summoned, Garcia's face appeared on the screen, her expression unusually serious. 

Garcia: My magnificent mind-hunters, I have something significant. All six victims—including our most recent—had contact with the same luxury services company within three months prior to their deaths. 

The room went silent.

Hotch: Elaborate, Garcia. 

Garcia: Ethereal Designs—a boutique firm that specializes in ultra-high-end interior design, event planning, and lifestyle consultation for wealthy LGBTQ+ professionals. They're based in Pittsburgh with satellite offices in Cleveland and Columbus. Michael Reeves hired them for a penthouse renovation. David Park consulted about custom furniture. Anthony Johnson had an initial consultation three weeks ago about redesigning his apartment post-breakup. 

Prentiss: And the Cleveland and Columbus victims

Garcia: Same company, different offices. Robert Chen used their event planning services for a gallery opening. Thomas Walsh hired them for a complete home redesign. James Morrison consulted about art acquisition and placement. 

Morgan: That's our hunting ground. That's where they're finding their victims. 

Hotch: Garcia, everything on Ethereal Designs. Ownership, employees, contractors, client lists, financial records. I want to know who has access to these victims' personal information. 

Garcia: Already pulling it, Sir. The company is co-owned by—

Garcia paused, and her voice changed. 

Garcia: Oh. Oh no. Boss, this is... this is complicated. 

Hotch: What is it, Garcia? 

Garcia: Ethereal Designs is owned and operated by Magnus Bane and Alexander Lightwood. Magnus Bane, the High Warlock of Brooklyn. And Alexander Lightwood, former head of the New York Institute. 

The room erupted into shicked murmurs. 

Hotch: Former Head? When did he leave the Institute? 

Garcia: Two years ago, sir. He and Magnus relocated to Pittsburgh and started the design firm. According to the business license, Magnus handles the creative direction and client relations, while Alec—Alexander—runs the security and logistics side of the business. 

Prentiss felt something cold settle in her stomach. 

Prentiss: Pull up their photos, Garcia. 

Two images appeared on screen. Magnus Bane, appearing to be in his early forties but with the ageless quality of a centuries-old warlock, strikingly handsome with distinctive cat eyes and impeccable style. And Alexander Lightwood, late thirties, dark-haired and powerfully built, with the bearing of a trained warrior. 

Reid: They fit the profile perfectly. Magnus would be the Architect—sophisticated taste, extensive knowledge of luxury goods, charming enough to put clients at ease. Alec would be the Executor—Shadowhunter training, tactical expertise, the physical capability to subdue victims efficiently. 

JJ: But they're Magnus and Alec. They're heroes. They've saved the world multiple times. They would never—

Hotch: We follow the evidence. 

Hotch interrupted, his voice hard. 

Hotch: Garcia, I need their complete background. Any changes in behavior two years ago, financial records, property ownership, known associates. Everything. 

Garcia: On it, sir. But boss, you should know—they have a lot of powerful friends in both the mundane and Shadow World. If they are our unsubs, bringing them in is going to be politically complicated. 

Hotch: I don't care about politics. I care about stopping killers before they murder again. Get me that information. 

As Garcia's image disappeared, the team looked at each other with varying degrees of disbelief and grim determination. 

Morgan: This doesn't make sense. Everything we know about Magnus and Alec suggests they're good people. Why would they suddenly start killing?

Hotch: That's what we need to find out. Morgan, Prentiss, you're with me. We're going to Etheral Designs. Reid, Rossi, JJ—coordinate with local PD on surveillance. I want eyes on both of them, but discreetly. If these are our unsubs, they're highly trained and will spot a tail instantly. 

Detective Chang: And if they run?

Hotch: Then we know they're guilty. And we'll bring them in by any means necessary. 

Ethereal Designs occupied a converted warehouse in Pittsburgh's Strip District, transformed into a space that could only be described as magical. Exposed brick walls were softened by flowing fabrics in jewel tones. Custom furniture arrangements looked like they belonged in palaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the space with natural light that caught on crystal installations and made them scatter rainbows across the polished concrete floors. The BAU approached with tactical awareness, but also with a sense of cognitive dissonance. How could people who created such beauty also create such horror? A figure emerged from back—Magnus Bane himself, and the team immediately understood how he could disarm potential victims. He was breathtaking, dressed in a perfectly tailored three-piece suit in deep purple with gold accents, his cat eyes glowing faintly in the afternoon light. His presence was both welcoming and otherworldly, the kind of person who could make you feel like the most important individual in any room. 

Magnus: Good Afternoon.

Magnus said, his voice smooth and cultured with a hint of an accent that spoke of centuries and countless places. 

Magnus: I'm Magnus Bane. How may I help you?

His gaze traveled over the three agents with what appeared to be genuine curiosity rather than concern. Hotch stepped forward, showing his credentials. 

Hotch: I'm Supervisory Special Agent Aaron Hotchner with the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit. These are agents Prentiss and Morgan. We need to ask you some questions about several of your clients. 

Magnus: Clients?

Magnus's expression shifted to something that looked like genuine concern, though the team knew better than to trust first impressions. 

Magnus: Has something happened? Is someone in trouble?

Morgan: We're investigating a series of murders. 

Morgan said, watching Magnus's face carefully for microexpressions. 

Morgan: Several victims had done business with your firm within the past year. 

Magnus: Murders? 

The word came out sharp, and Magnus's glamoured appearance flickered for just a moment, revealing the depth of emotion beneath. 

Magnus: Who? Which clients?

Before anyone could answer, another voice came from the upstairs loft. 

???: Magnus? Is everything alright?

Alexander Lightwood appeared at the railing, and the team was struck by the contrast between the two men. Where Magnus was all sophisticated elegance, Alec embodied controlled power. He wore tactical pants and a fitted black Henley that revealed the muscled build of someone who trained constantly. His hazel eyes were sharp and assessing as he descended the stairs—not with the guilty awareness of a criminal, but with the protective instinct of a warrior. 

Prentiss: Alexander Lightwood?

Prentiss asked, though she already knew the answer. 

Alec: Just Alec.

He replied, moving to stand beside Magnus in a gesture that was both protective and united. Their shoulders touched, a casual intimacy that spoke of years together. 

Alec: What's this about murders?

Hotch: Michael Reeves, David Park, Anthony Johnson, Robert Chen, Thomas Walsh, and James Morrison. 

Hotch said, watching both men carefully. 

Hotch: All six were clients of Ethereal Designs. All six were murdered in the past eighteen months. 

The color drained from Magnus's face. 

Magnus: Anthony—of God, Anthony. He was just here three weeks ago. He was so excited about starting over, about creating a space that felt like hope after his breakup. This is—this can't be happening. 

Alec's hand found Magnus's automatically, their fingers intertwining. It was a gesture so natural, so clearly habitual, that it spoke of genuine connection. 

Alec: How did they die?

Alec asked, his voice tight with controlled emotion. 

Prentiss: They were strangled, and their bodies were staged in specific ways. 

Prentiss replied, deliberately vague to see how they'd react. 

Prentiss: positioned to appear romantic or peaceful. Given expensive gifts that didn't belong to them. 

Magnus and Alec exchanged a glance—a split-second of communication that held volumes. But it wasn't the look of co-conspirators. It was the look of partners facing something terrible together. 

Magnus: The gifts. Like the ones we discussed? The concept for the memorial installation?

Morgan: What memorial installation?

Alec pulled out his phone, scrolling through photos before handing it to Morgan. 

Alec: Three months ago, we were commissioned by an LGBTQ+ advocacy group to design a memorial installation for victims of hate crimes. The concept involved positioning mannequins in peaceful poses and adorning them with expensive items donated by the community—watches, jewelry, clothing. The idea was to show that these victims had values, that they mattered, that they deserved beautiful things. 

Magnus: We presented the concept, but it was rejected as too controversial. 

Magnus added, his voice shaking slightly. 

Magnus: They thought it glamorized death. We were devastated—we'd put months of work into the design. But we accepted the decisions and moved on. At least, we thought we had. 

Prentiss felt a chill run down her spine. 

Prentiss: Do you still have the proposal? The designs, the specific details? 

Magnus: Of course. Everything's in our project files. Why—

He stopped, realization dawning on his face. 

Magnus: Oh my God. Someone saw our proposal. Someone is recreating our design. Using real bodies instead of mannequins. 

Hotch: Who had access to that proposal?

Alec: It was presented to the advocacy group's board—about twenty people

Alec said, his tactical mind already working through scenarios. 

Alec: But we also posted initial concept sketches on our professional Instagram account. Thousands of people could have seen them. 

Hotch: We need to see those files. All of them. And we need to ask you both some questions. Where were you three nights ago between 10 PM and 2 AM?

Magnus and Alec look at each other again, and this time, there was a flicker of something—not guilt, but awareness that they were being profiled as suspects. 

Magnus: We were home. 

Magnus said carefully. 

Magnus: In Lawrenceville. It was a Tuesday, so we had dinner together, worked on some design proposals, and went to bed around eleven. 

Prentiss: Can anyone verify that?

Magnus: Our cat, Chairman Meow.

Magnus offered with a weak attempt at humor that fell flat. 

Magnus: No, we were alone. We usually are on weeknights. We're not exactly social butterflies these days. 

Morgan: And five nights ago? Same time frame?

Alec: Home again. 

Alec replied, and there was a defensive edge creeping into his voice now. 

Alec: Are we suspects? Do we need to call a lawyer?

Hotch: We're just asking routine questions. 

Hotch assured him, though the lack of alibis was noted by everyone in the room. 

Hotch: How well did you know the victims? What level of interaction did you have with them?

Magnus pulled up files on his tablet, his hands trembling slightly. 

Magnus: Michael Reeves—I met with him four times over two months for his penthouse renovation. Lovely man, going through a painful divorce. David Park came in once for a furniture consultation but decided to postpone the project. Anthony Johnson..." His voice broke. "Anthony and I clicked immediately. He reminded me of myself at that age—creative, optimistic, believing in fresh starts. We were supposed to meet again next week to finalize his design plan.

Prentiss: And the others?

Alec: Robert Chen was a client in Cleveland when we had our satellite office there. I handled the security assessment for his gallery event. Professional interaction, maybe three meetings total. Thomas Walsh and James Morrison were both Columbus clients—Magnus did full home designs for them.

Morgan: So you both had access to their homes, their schedules, their personal information. 

Alec: It's necessary for the work. 

Alec replied, his tone cooling. 

Alec: We're licensed, bonded, insured. Background checked by both mundane and Shadowhutner authorities. Our clients trust us with their most intimate spaces. We would never betray that trust. 

Prentiss: But someone is. Someone who knows your design aesthetic, your client list, your access to these men's lives. Someone close enough to your operations to recreate your memorial concept using real victims. 

The implication hung in the air. Magnus and Alec absorbed it, and their hands tightened together. 

Magnus: You think someone is framing us. Or someone who works with us is doing this. 

Hotch: We're investigating all possibilities. How many people work for Ethereal Designs? 

Alec: Just us for the design and security work. We have contractors for installation—electricians, painters, that kind of thing. But they're all thoroughly vetted, and they only come in for specific jobs. They don't have access to client information.

Prentiss: What about former employees? Anyone you've fired or who left on bad terms.

Magnus and Alec exchanged another look, this one troubled. 

Magnus: There was someone. About four months ago. A junior designer we hired to help with the increased workload. Talented, creative, but... troubled. We had to let him go when we discovered he was using client information inappropriately. 

Morgan: Inappropriately?

Alec: He was stalking one of our clients. Following him, showing up at his gym, his regular restaurants. The client was terrified. We fired him immediately and reported it to the police, but they said without explicit threats, they couldn't do much. 

Hotch: What was his name

Hotch asked, already pulling out his phone to contact Garcia. 

Magnus: Ethan Cross. Age 28, lives—or lived—in Bloomfield. Extremely talented designer, impeccable taste. But there was always something off about him. Too intense, too focused on the emotional lives of our clients rather than their design needs.

Hotch: Garcia. I need everything on Ethan Cross, age 28, last known address in Bloomfield, Pittsburgh. Former employee of Ethereal Designs, fired four months ago for stalking behavior. Run him against our victim list and check for any military or security training.

Garcia: On it, sir. 

Garcia's voice came through the speaker. 

Garcia: Give me five minutes.

Hotch turned back to Magnus and Alec. 

Hotch: We're going to need you to come to the field office to make official statements and go through your client files in detail. We also need a list of everyone who saw your memorial installation proposal. 

Magnus: Of course. Whatever you need. If someone is using our work as a blueprint for murder, we'll do anything to help stop them. 

Alec: But we didn't do this. 

Alec added firmly his warrior's honor, evident in every word. 

Alec: I've killed in combat, defending innocents from demons. Magnus has lived for centuries and has probably seen every kind of darkness humanity can produce. But we would never, ever murder innocent people. Especially not our clients. Especially not like this. 

Magnus: We believe in creating beauty.

Magnus said, his voice thick with emotion. 

Magnus: In helping people transform their spaces into homes that reflect their authentic selves. The idea that someone would prevent that into murder—it's unconscionable. 

Prentiss studied them both carefully. Their body language was open, their emotional responses seemed genuine, and their immediate cooperation suggested innocence. But she'd been a profiler long enough to know that some killers were exceptionally good actors. 

Prentiss: One more question. Why did you leave New York? Why give up leading the Institute to start a design business in Pittsburgh

The question hung in the air, personal and probing. Magnus and Alec looked at each other, a conversation happening in silence. 

Alec: Because I was tired. Tired of war, tired of losing people, tired of carrying the weight of protecting the world on my shoulders. I'd been head of the Institute for twenty years. I'd seen friends die, made impossible decisions, sacrificed parts of my humanity for the greater good. And I realized I was losing myself in the process.

Magnus: And I was tired of watching him suffer. Watching the man I love slowly break under the pressure of a job that demanded everything and gave back only more trauma. So when Alec said he wanted to step down, wanted to find a way to use his skills—his eye for tactics and security, his protective instincts—in a way that didn't involve killing demons, I supported him completely. 

Alec: We came to Pittsburgh because it needed an Institute director—Jace Herondale took over the New York Institute—and because it's far enough from the Shadow World politics that we could build something new. We wanted to create beauty together. To help people feel safe and valued in their homes. To prove that warriors can become artists, that protectors can become creators.

Magnus: It's been the happiest two years of our lives. 

Magnus said, and there was such genuine warmth in his voice that even Morgan felt it. 

Magnus: Creating together, building a life that's about more than fighting. Coming home to each other every night without the weight of the world on our shoulders. This business is our dream, our shared vision. We would never let anything destroy it. Especially not murder.

Garcia's voice crackled through Hotch's phone. 

Garcia: Boss, I've got something on Ethan Cross. And oh boy, is it not good. 

Hotch: Go ahead, Garcia. 

Garcia: Ethan Cross, 28, fired from Ethereal Designs four months ago. Prior to working there, he spent three years in the Army—discharged for psychological reasons after showing 'concerning fixation on death and dying' according to his military psych eval. He's got training in close-quarters combat and tactical operations. And boss—he matches our profile perfectly. 

Hotch: Current address

Garcia: That's where it gets tricky. He was evicted from his Bloomfield apartment two months ago for non-payment of rent. No current known address, but his credit card shows recent purchases at various upscale bars and restaurants in Shadyside and East Liberty—exactly the kind of places our victims frequented.

Prentiss: And Garcia. Cross-reference his purchase history with the dates and locations of our victims' last known movements before they were killed. 

The sound of rapid typing filled the speaker. 

Garcia: Oh God. 

Garcia breathed. 

Garcia: He was at the same wine bar as Anthony Johnson the night Anthony died. Same restaurant as David Park, three hours before his estimated time of death. I'm finding matches for all six victims, boss. Ethan Cross was in proximity to each of them within hours of their deaths. 

The team exchanged grim looks. This was their unsub. 

Garcia: But wait, there's more. Ehtan's phone records show frequent calls to another number—a burner phone that's been activated at various locations throughout Pittsburgh over the past six months. The pattern suggests two people working together.

Prentiss: He has a partner. Just like the profile suggested. 

Hotch: Can you trace the burner phone?

Garcia: Working on it, sir. But based on the locations where it's been activated—high-end shopping districts, luxury apartment complexes, upscale entertainment venues—whoever has this phone moves in the same circles as Ethan and the victims.

Hotch turned back to Magnus and Alec. 

Hotch: Did Ethan have any close associates while he worked for you? Anyone he was particularly friendly with?

Magnus and Alec conferred quietly. 

Alec: There was someone. Cameron Pierce. A freelance event planner we contracted with occasionally. He and Ethan seemed close—too close, maybe. We noticed they'd go to lunch together frequently, stay late working on projects together. We thought they might be dating.

Hotch: Garcia, add Cameron Pierce to your search. Cross-reference with Ethan Cross's known associates and check for any connection to our victims. 

Garcia: Already on it, boss. Cameron Pierce, 32, freelance luxury event planner specializing in LGBTQ+ social events and fundraisers. He's been working in Pittsburgh for five years, previously based in Philadelphia. And—bingo—his phone number matches the burner phone that's been in contact with Ethan Cross. 

Morgan: That's our team. Ethan Cross is the Executor—military training, tactical knowledge, physical capability. Cameron Pierce is the Architect—sophisticated taste, access to upscale social circles, and event planning skills that would make him excellent at staging scenes. 

Hotch: We need addresses for both of them. And we need them now. If our timeline holds, they're likely planning their next kill for tonight. 

Garcia: Sending addresses to your phone now. But sir, be advised—Ethan Cross has combat training and Cameron Pierce has no record of violence, but that doesn't mean he's not dangerous. If they've killed six people together, they're comfortable with murder and likely won't go quietly.

Hotch: Understood. Garcia, coordinate with Pittsburgh PD for backup units at both addresses. Morgan, Prentiss, we're going after Ethan Cross. Reid, Rossi, JJ, take Cameron Pierce. Full tactical gear, assume they're armed and dangerous. 

As the agents prepared to move, Magnus stepped forward. 

Magnus: Agent Hotchner, let us help. Alec is one of the most skilled warriors alive, and I have magic that could be useful in apprehending them safely. 

Hotch: Absolutely not. You're potential witnesses at best, potential suspects at worst. You need to say here and stay out of the investigation. 

Alec: But—

Hotch: No. I understand you want to help, but you're emotionally compromised and too close to this case. Let us do our jobs. 

Magnus and Alec watched helplessly as the BAU team mobilized, their shared dream business now the backdrop for a murder investigation, their design concept twisted into a serial killer's methodology. As the agents left, Magnus turned to Alec, fear and anger warring on his face.

Magnus: They think we did this. Even if they arrest Ethan and Cameron, there will always be suspicion. 

Alec: Then we prove them wrong. 

Alec pulled Magnus close. 

Alec: We cooperate fully, we provide everything they need, and we show them that we're the victims here, too. Our work was stolen, our clients were murdered, our dream was perverted. We're not the monsters. We never were. 

Magnus: What if it's not enough? What if people always wonder? Our families, our friends, our community—what if they always have that shadow of doubt?

Alec: Then we live with it

Alec replied, pressing his forehead to Magnus's. 

Alec: Together. Like we live with everything else. Because that's what we do, Magnus. We face the darkness together, and we survive. We always survive. 

They stood together in their beautiful showroom, surrounded by the evidence of their shared creativity, and waited to see if their world would survive this storm. 

Ethan Cross's last known address led the BAU to a converted loft in the Strip District, walking distance from Ethereal Designs. The irony wasn't lost on anyone—he'd been living close enough to watch Magnus and Alec even after being fired. Hotch, Morgan, and Prentiss approached with a full tactical team, weapons drawn. Morgan kicked the door open, and they flooded inside, clearing rooms with military precision.

Hotch: Clear!

Prentiss: Clear!

Morgan: Kitchen clear!

But Ethan Cross wasn't there. The loft was almost empty—minimal furniture, bare walls except for one striking feature that made Prentiss's blood run cold. An entire wall was covered with photographs, sketches, and design plans. Crime scene photos that could only have been taken by the killer himself were interspersed with images of Magnus and Alec—candid shots taken from a distance, clearly surveillance. But most disturbing were the detailed sketches: elaborate staging designs for future kills, notes on potential victims, and at the center of it all, a large sketch of Magnus and Alec themselves, positioned like the victims they'd found.

Prentiss: He's obsessed with them. This isn't just about copying their design concept. He's fixated on Magnus and Alec as the ultimate representation of his ideal. 

Morgan photographed the evidence, his jaw tight with anger. 

Morgan: These future victim sketches—there are at least ten more planned kills here. And look at this. 

He pointed to a calendar with dates circled. 

Morgan: Tonight. He's planning something for tonight. 

Hotch was already on the phone. 

Hotch: Reid, what's your status on Cameron Pierce?

Across town, Reid, Rossi, and JJ stood in Cameron Pierce's upscale apartment in Shadyside, facing a similar disturbing shrine. But where Ethan's space had been sparse and tactical, Cameron's was luxurious and artistic. The walls were covered with fabric swatches, jewelry catalogs, and photographs of the victims—not crime scene photos, but candid images taken while they were alive. The victims were marked with notes about their style, their mannerisms, what "gifts" would suit them best.

JJ: He's treating them like clients. 

JJ said, horrified. 

JJ: Like this is just another design project. 

Reid examined a leather journal left open on an antique desk. 

Reid: This is a diary of sorts. Listen to this entry from two months ago: 'Ethan understands what Magnus and Alec created but couldn't complete. The memorial installation wasn't rejected because it was controversial—it was rejected because it wasn't real. Art requires sacrifice. Beauty demands blood. Each piece we create together brings us closer to the perfection they envisioned but were too weak to achieve.'

Rossi: He's delusional. He genuinely believes he's honoring Magnus and Alec's vision by murdering people. 

Reid: There's more. 

Reid continued reading. 

Reid: 'Tonight we become the art. Our final piece will show Magnus and Alec what true love looks like. What we're willing to sacrifice for each other. They'll finally understand that we did this for them, because of them, to complete what they started.'

JJ: Tonight, we become the art. What does that mean?

Reid flipped through more pages, his expression growing more alarmed.

Reid: He's planning to kill himself and Ethan. A murder-suicide staged like their ultimate masterpiece. And based on these sketches, they're planning to do it at Ethereal Designs, with Magnus and Alec as their audience.

Hotch's phone rang before he could call Reid back. 

Hotch: Hotch.

Garcia: Sir, it's Garcia. I've been monitoring Cameron Pierce's credit cards and one just pinged for a purchase at a hardware store in Lawrenceville twenty minutes ago. He bought rope, wire, and—oh God—materials consistent with what you'd need to stage a double suicide to look like a romantic scene.

Hotch: Send the address for Ethereal Designs to all units. 

Hotch commanded, already running for the SUV. 

Hotch: Reid, Rossi, JJ—converge on Ethereal Designs now. Prentiss, Morgan, with me. Garcia, contact Magnus and Alec, tell them not to leave the showroom and not to let anyone in until we arrive.

Garcia: Calling them now, sir. 

But at Ethereal Designs, Magnus's phone sat forgotten on his desk, silenced during their conversation with the BAU. He and Alec stood in the showroom, discussing their next steps, completely unaware of the danger approaching. The front door chimed softly as it opened. 

Magnus: We're closed. 

Magnus called out without turning around, assuming it was another federal agent. 

Magnus: If you're with the FBI, Agent Hotchner said we should wait here. 

???: We're not with the FBI. 

A voice said from behind them. Magnus and Alec spun around to find Ethan Cross and Cameron Pierce standing in their showroom. Ethan held a gun trained on them with the steady hands of someone with military training. Cameron carried a designer bag that likely held the staging materials they'd purchased.

Alec: Ethan. 

Alec said carefully, his hands moving slowly to a non-threatening position even as he calculated angles and distances. 

Alec: Cameron. What are you doing here?

Cameron: Completing your work. 

Cameron replied, his voice carrying the dreamy quality of someone divorced from reality. 

Cameron: The memorial installation. The one they rejected. We've been creating it for you, piece by piece. Don't you see? Every victim, every careful arrangement, every gift—it was all for you.

Magnus: You killed those people. 

Magnus said, horror and comprehension dawning on his face. 

Magnus: Our clients. You used our design concept as a blueprint for murder. 

Ethan: We elevated it. 

Ethan corrected, his gun never wavering. 

Ethan: You imagined it with mannequins, with fake emotion. We made it real. We gave those men the honor of becoming art, of being remembered as beautiful rather than just forgotten victims of a hateful world. 

Alec: They're not art. 

Alec said, his voice hard with controlled rage. 

Alec: They were people. Living, breathing people with famileis and futures. You didn't honor them. You murdered them. 

Cameron: You don't understand. 

Cameron said sadly, reaching into his bag and pulling out lengths of white silk rope. 

Cameron: But you will. Because tonight, we're going to show you what real love looks like. What we're willing to do for art, for beauty, for each other.

Magnus's magic flickered at his fingertips, blue sparks dancing briefly before Ethan adjusted his aim. 

Ethan: Don't. I know what you're capable of Magnus Bane. But I'm faster than your magic. Move and Alec dies first. Then you. And that's not how this is supposed to end. 

Alec: How is it supposed to end. 

Alec asked, buying time, knowing the BAU was on their way but not knowing if they'd arrivie in time. 

Cameron: With us. Ethan and I, together, becomign the final piece of the installation. The culmination of everything you inspired. We'll stage ourselves here, in your beautiful showroom, surrounded by your creations. Two men who loved each other enough to kill together, to die together, to become eternal together. 

Magnus: You want to commit suicide here?

Magnus asked, keeping his voice calm even as his mind raced through options. 

Magnus: To stage your own deaths as art?

Cameron: Not just suicide. Transcendence. And we want you to witness it. To understand what you created, even if you didn't realize it. Your memorial installation wasn't just about honoring victims—it was about showing that death can be beautiful if it's done with love and intention.

Alec: That's insane. Death isn't beautiful. It's final and it's tragic and it's nothing to romanticize. 

Ethan: Says the man who's killed hundreds. Don't pretend you don't understand the intimacy of death, Alexander Lightwood. You've dealt it enough times. 

Alec: In combat. Protecting innocents from demons. Not murdering inncoent people for some twisted artistic vision. 

Cameron: The demons you killed were someone's children. Someone's lovers. You made their deaths into righeousness. We're making our victims into art. What's the difference?

Magnus: The difference is consent. 

Magnus interjected, his centuries of wisdom evident in his voice. 

Magnus: The difference is necessity. The difference is that Alec fought to protect life, not to take it for his own gratification. You're not artists. You're murders trying to justify the unjustifiable. 

Cameron: then watch us justify it. 

Cameron said, pulling more items from his bag—expensive watches, jewelry, fabric for staging. 

Cameron: Ethan, tie them up. They need to witness this, but they can't interfere. 

As Ethan moved forward with the rope, Alec calculated his chances. He was a trained warrior, probably could disarm Ethan even with the gun, but not without Magnus getting shot in the process. And he couldn't risk Magnus. He'd rather die than risk Magnus. That calculation must have shown on his face, because Ethan smiled grimly.

Ethan: That's right. You love him too much to take the chance. That's what this is all about, Alexander. Love that's so strong you'd do anything for it. Love that transcends morality and law and reason. We understand that. We live it every day.

Magnus: You don't understand love. 

Magnus said as Ethan bound his hands behind his back with practiced efficiency. 

Magnus: Love isn't about possession or performance or proving something to the world. Love is about making each other better, about building something together that's greater than either of you alone. What you and Cameron have is obsession and shared delusion.

Cameron: And what you and Alec have is so different. 

Cameron challenged as he began setting up their staging area—arranging furniture, placing fabric, creating a scene.

Cameron: You left everything for him. Your position, your power, your connections. He left his entire purpose, his duty, his identity as a Shadowhunter. You both gave up who you were for this relationship. How is that not obsessive?

Alec: Because we chose it freely.

Alec said as Ethan secured him to one of the showroom's support columns, bind him efficiently. 

Alec: Because we didn't destroy others in the process. Because we built something new together instead of tearing things down. You can't see the difference because you've lost yourselves so completely in this delusion that you think murder and suicide are acts of love instead of acts of destruction.

Cameron finished his preparations, creating an elaborate staging area in the center of the showroom. He'd positioned two chairs facing each other, arranged expensive fabric as a backdrop, and laid out jewelry and watches like offerings at an altar. 

Cameron: It's ready. 

He told Ethan softly, and something passed between them—a look of such genuine affection that it was almost heartbreaking given the context.

Magnus: You really do love each other.

Magnus obseved quietly.

Magnus: That's the tragedy of this. You actually found real love, something rare and precious, and you're destroying it with murder.

Cameron: We're immortalizing it.

Cameron corrected, taking one of the silk ropes. 

Cameron: Ethan, tie me first. They yourself. When they find us, we'll be perfect. Beautiful. Eternal. 

Magnus: Cameron. 

Magnus tried once more, his voice carrrying the weight of his centuries. 

Magnus: I've lived long enough to see countless forms of love. True love doesn't end like this. True love finds ways to survive, to grow, to transform. What you're planning isn't romantic—it's the end of every possibility you have together. Every tomorrow, every laugh, every quiet morning, every shared dream. You're throwing all of that away for one moment of theatrical tragedy.

Cameron hesitated, the rope in his hands, something flickering across his face—doubt, perhaps, or momentary clarity. But Ethan moved quickly, taking the rope from Cameron's hands.

Ethan: Don't listen to him. He's had centuries. We have now. And now is enough if we make it count. 

Alec: Is it?

Alec asked, pulling against his bonds. 

Alec: Is one one dramatic ending worth more than a lifetime of ordinary moments? Cameron, you're an event planner. You create beautiful experiences for people to celebrate life. When did death become more appealing than the life you could build together?

Cameron: When life stopped being enough. When every day felt empty unless we were planning the next kill, creating a piece. When murder became the only time we felt truly alive, truly connected. 

Magnus: Then you need help.

Magnus said urgently. 

Magnus: Psychological help, medication, therapy. What you're describing is a shared delusion that can be treated. You don't have to die. You can get help, face justice for what you've done, and maybe, someday, find a way to actually live instead of just exisitng between kills.

Ethan: It's too late for that. 

Ethan said flatly. He began binding Cameron to one of the chairs, the white silk rope stark against Cameron's dark clothing.

Ethan: We've killed six people. We're going to prison for life. This way, we control our story. We become part of the art instead of just criminals in a cage. 

Alec: You'll be dead. You won't control anything. You'll just be two more bodies for the ME to process, two more crime scene photos for the FBI to file away. That's not art. That's just waste. 

Cameron watched Ethan secure the rope aruond him, and tears began streaming down his face. 

Cameron: I'm scared. Ethan, I'm actually scared. What if they're right? What if this is just... wrong?

Ethan: It's not wrong.

Ethan assured him, though his hands trembled slightly as he tied the final knot.

Ethan: This is us. This is our choice. Together. That's what matters. 

But as Ethan moved to the second chair to bind himself, beginning the complex process of creating a ligature system that would allow him to strangle both of them simultaneously, the sound of multiple vehicles screeching to a halt outside pierced the moment.

BAU Team: FBI! Drop your weapon!

The showroom doors burst open and the BAU flooded in, weapons drawn, finding the surreal tableau: Magnus and Alec bound and helpless, Cameron tied to a chair and crying, and Ethan frozen in the act of setting up their suicide staging.

Hotch: Drop the rope, Ethan. 

Hotch commanded, his weapon trained on Ethan's center mass. 

Hotch: Step away from Cameron. Put your hands on your head. 

For a moment, Ethan didn't move. He looked at Cameron, at the staging they'd created, at Magnus and Alec. 

Ethan: We were so close. So close to being perfect. 

Prentiss: You're not going to be perfect. 

Prentiss said, moving to free Magnus while Morgan moved to Alec. 

Prentiss: You're going ot be alive. And maybe that's enoug. 

Cameron: It's never enough.

Cameron sobbed. 

Cameron: It's never enough without the art, without the purpose, without—

Reid: Without the killing.

Reid finishied, entering behidn the tactical team.

Reid: Because you've conditioned youselves to believe that muder is the only time you feel truly connected. That's classic folie à deux with elements of thanatos—death drive. You've eroticized death to the point where it's become more appealing than life. But that's a psychological condition, not a truth. It can be treated.

Ethan: I don't want treatment.

Ethan said, and in one fluid motion, he grabbed the gun he'd set down, raising not toward the agents but toward his own head. 

Cameron: Ethan, no!

Cameron screamed. Multiple gunshots rang out simultaneously. Ethan's body jerked and fell, the gun clattering away, his shoulder bleeding from where Morgan's non-lethal shot had hit him before he could pull the trigger.

Cameron: Ethan!

Cameron writhed against his bonds, trying to reach him. 

Cameron: Ethan, please, no, no—

Medical teams rushed in as agents secured Ethan's weapon. He was alive, conscious, staring at the ceiling with an expression of profound defeat. Morgan cut Cameron free and he immediately tried to crawl to Ethan, but agents held him back.

Cameron: Let me go! I need to—he's hurt, let me—

JJ: He's going to be fine. 

JJ assured him, though her tone was firm. 

JJ: And you're both going to be arrested for six-counts of first-degree murder. You're not dying today. You're facing justice. 

As medical personnel worked on Ethan's shoulder, Prentiss finished freeing Magnus, who immediately rushed to Alec. They clung to each other, Magnus's magic flaring protectively around them both, Alec's warrior composure finally cracking as the reality of how close they'd come to witnessing a murder-suicide in their own showroom hit them. 

Magnus: It's over.

Magnus breathed against Alec's neck. 

Magnus: Thank God, it's over. 

Hotch: Not quite. 

Hotch said, approaching them. 

Hotch: We're going to need your statements. And you're going to need security—there's a possibility that Ethan and Cameron shared their plans with others, or that their online following might target you.

Alec: Online following?

Alec asked, confused. Reid pulled up a website on his tablet. 

Reid: They've been documenting their kills on the dark web. Posting crime scene photos, talking about their 'artistic process,' building a following of people who romanticize their work. You and Magnus have become symbols to that community—the artists whose vision inspired the murders.

Magnus looked physically ill. 

Magnus: People are celbrating this? Celebreating the murder of our clients?

Reid: A small but vocal group, yes. They see Ethan and Cameron as tragic romantics, and you as the unwitting inspiration for their 'art.' It's disturbing, but it's the reality of how some people will interpret this case.

Hotch: We can protect you. But you need to understand that your lives are going ot change because of this. The media attention, the public scrutiny, the association with these murders—it's going to be intense.

Magnus and Alec looked at each other, a lifetiem of facing impossible situations evident in that signle glance. They'd fought demons, faced down prejudice, rebuilt their lives from scratch. They could survive this too. 

Alec: We'll deal with this. 

Alec said firmly. 

Alec: Together. 

Magnus: Always together. 

Magnus agreed, and despite everything—the horror of the case, the trauma of being held captive, the perversion of their creative work—their love remained evident, unshakeable, real. As Ethan and Cameron were taken away in separate ambulances—both alive, both facing life in prison, both having failed to achieve the tragic ending they'd envisioned—Prentiss watched Magnus and Alec comfort each other in the ruins of their showroom.

Prentiss: That's what real love looks like 

She said to Reid. 

Prentiss: Not the theatrical tragedy, not the murder and obsession. Just two people choosing to face whatever comes next together. 

Reid: It's also what saved them. Alec didn't fight Ethan because he wasn't willing to risk Magnus getting shot. Magnus didn't use his magic for the same reason. They each valued the other's life more than their own freedom or safety. That's the opposite of what Ethan and Cameron have—which is a shared delusion that they value their relationship narrative more than the actual living, breathing continuation of their partnership. 

Morgan: Think Ethan and Cameron really loved each other?

Morgan asked, joining them. 

Prentiss: It think they did. That's teh tragedy. They found real love, something precious and rare. But they couldn't separate that love from the darkness inside them. So instead of the love redeeming them, their darkness corrupted the love until they oculdn't tell the difference between devotion and destruction. 

JJ: And Magnus and Alec?

Prentiss: They're the proof that love deosn't have to corrupt. That you can love someone intensely, completely, even obsessively, and still maintain your morality. Because their love makes them want to be better people, not worse ones. 

Chapter Text

Three days after the arrest, Magnus and Alec sat in the BAU's Pittsburgh field office conference room, exhausted and emotionally wrung out. They'd given statements, reviewed evidence, identified which of their design concepts had been twisted into murder scenes, and faced the reality that their dream business was now permanently associated with serial killings.

Hotch: We need to talk about the memorial installation. 

Hotch said, pulling up the original designs Magnus and Alec had created. 

Hotch: Ethan and Cameron's murders were remarkably faithful to your concept. Walks us through the original vision. 

Magnus sighed, rubbing his temples. 

Magnus: It started as a commission from the Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Alliance. They wanted a memorial for hate crime victims—something that would honor their lives rather than just focus on their deaths. I suggested an installation that would show them as they deserved to be remembered: valued, beautiful, adorned with expensive items that symbolized how precious each life was.

Alec: The mannequins would be positioned in peaceful poses. Not as victims, but as people who were loved. Some alone, some in pairs, some in groups. The community would donate the jewelry, watches, clothing—items that meant something to them or to the victims' families. It was meant to be a celebration of life, not a glorification of death.

Prentiss: But the Alliance rejected it. 

Magnus: They thought it was too controversial.

Magnus said bitterly. 

Magnus: Too focused on material items when it should be about the human cost. Too aesthetic when it should be about grief. They wanted something more traditional—names on a wall, maybe an eternal flame. Our concept was deemed 'inappropriate for memorializing tragedy.

Reid: You were devastated. Your social media posts from that period show a marked change in tone. Less frequent posts, more subdued aesthetic choices, a sense of creative defeat

Alec: We put six months into that project. It was going to be our masterpiece, our way of giving back to the community that had accepted us so fully. When it was rejected, it felt like a rejection of everything we were trying to do with Ethereal Designs—create beauty that meant something, that changed how people experienced loss and life.

Morgan: And Ethan Cross was working for you when the project was rejected. 

Magnus: He was devastated, too. Maybe even more than we were. He'd done a lot of the technical work—calculating how to position the mannequins, what materials would support the weight of the clothing and accessories, and how to create the ligature marks on the mannequins' necks that would show how the victims died while still keeping the overall impression peaceful.

JJ: Wait. The original design included ligature marks on the amnnequins

Magnus nodded uncomfortably. 

Magnus: The victims we were memorializing had all been strangled. The Alliance wanted their cause of death acknowledged but not sensationalized. So I designed stylized marks using white fabric—almost like necklaces or chokers—that would indicate how they died without being graphic or traumatic.

Prentiss: And that's exactly how Ethan killed his victims. White silk scarves, creating strangulation marks that were precise and almost elegant. He wasn't just inspired by your design; he was recreating it exactly. 

Magnus: Oh God.

Magnus whispered, the full weight of his inadvertent contribution to the murders hitting him. 

Magnus: I designed the method. I created the template for how to make strangulation look peaceful and beautiful. I—

Alec: You didn't know. 

Alec said firmly, taking Magnus's hand. 

Alec: You were designing a memorial, not a murder method. Ethan perverted your vision. That's on him, not you. 

Magnus: But people died because of my aesthetic choices. 

Magnus said, and there were centuries of guilt in his voice. 

Magnus: Six people are dead because I wanted to create beauty from tragedy. 

Hotch: Six people are dead because Ethan Cross and Cameron Pierce are killers

Hotch corrected firmly. 

Hotch: Your design was meant to honor victims, not create them. You couldn't have predicted that disturbed individuals would use it as inspiration for murder. 

Magnus: Couldn't I? I've lived for centuries. I've seen how art influences violence, how aesthetic visions can be twisted into horror. I should have known that creating a beautiful template for displayed death could inspire someone to make it real. 

Rossi: You're not responsible for how someone else interprets your art. 

Rossi said, his tone compassionate but firm. 

Rossi: That's like blaming Michelangelo because someone uses a statue as a weapon. The art itself is neutral—it's the viewer's psychology that determines how it's used.

Magnus: Except my art was literally about death. About making death beautiful. How is that neutral?

Prentiss: Because your intent was to honor life. To show that victims of violence deserved to be remembered as valuable, cherished people. Ethan and Cameron took that intent and inverted it—making living people into victims so they could create the beauty you envisioned. That inversion is their pathology, not your failure.

Magnus didn't look convinced, and Alec pulled him closer, protective and grounding. 

JJ: What about Cameron? What was his connection to the project?

Alec: He wasn't working for us during the memorial installation development. We didn't contract with him until about three months after the project was rejected. But he knew about it—Ethan must have told him. And apparently, it became their shared obsession. 

Reid: We've been interviewing Cameron extensively. 

Reid said, pulling up notes on his tablet. 

Reid: He's been cooperative, almost eagerly so. He wants us to understand their 'artistic vision,' as he calls it. According to him, meeting Ethan was the first time he felt truly understood. They bonded over feeling like outsiders in the art and design world—Cameron because he was 'just' an event planner rather than a 'real' artist, Ethan because he was a military grunt trying to work in a refined aesthetic field.

Morgan: And they bonded over you. 

Morgan added, looking at Magnus and Alec. 

Morgan: Over what you represented—two men who found each other, who built something beautiful together, who transformed from warriors into artists. You became their ideal, their aspiration, their obsession.

Alec: That's sick. 

Reid: It's folie à deux. Shared delusional disorder. When two people who are already psychologically vulnerable find each other, they can reinforce each other's worst impulses until those impulses become a shared reality. Cameron's need for artistic validation, combined with Ethan's need to be more than a soldier, created a joint delusion that murder was art and you were the artists they were honoring.

Prentiss: What did Cameron say about the individual murders? Did he show remorse?

Reid: That's where it gets complicated. He shows remorse for distressing you and Alec. He regrets that you were 'hurt' by the investigation and the association with the murders. But he doesn't seem to grasp that the victims themselves were wronged. He talks about them like they're materials—'Michael had such an elegant posture,' 'David's bone structure was perfect for the pose,' 'Anthony's coloring worked beautifully with the chosen accessories.' They're aesthetic elements in his mind, not people who were murdered.

Hotch: What about Ethan? Is he talking? 

Morgan: Barely. He's invoked his right to counsel and has given minimal statements. But what he has said is interesting. He takes full responsibility for the actual killings—says Cameron was just the 'artistic director' and shouldn't be held accountable for the 'necessary violence.' He's trying to protect Cameron.

Magnus: Because he loves him. Genuinely loves him. I could see it when they were staging their suicide. That look between them—that was a real connection, real affection. It's heartbreaking that they found real love and used it to justify murder instead of using it to become better people. 

JJ: Do you understand them? Their psychology, their motivation? 

Magnus and Alec looked at each other, having a silent conversation before Magnus answered. 

Magnus: es and no. Do I understand finding someone who completes you, who makes you feel seen and valued for the first time? Absolutely. Do I understand wanting to create something meaningful together, something that expresses the depth of your connection? Completely. But using murder as that expression? Taking innocent lives to satisfy your own emotional needs? That's where understanding ends and revulsion begins.

Prentiss: Alec?

Alec: I've killed. More times than I can count. In battle, in defense of innocents, in the execution of my duties as a Shadowhunter. And I won't lie—there's a rush that comes with it. A sense of power, of control, of absolute dominion over life and death. I understand how that could become addictive, how someone could start to need that feeling.

He paused, his hazel eyes haunted. 

Alec: But the difference is context and necessity. I killed demons and those who threatened innocents. It was never recreational, never artistic, never about my own gratification. The day killing becomes something I want rather than something I must do is the day I stop being a protector and become a monster.

Rossi: And that's the line Ethan and Cameron crossed. They stopped seeing killing as a last resort or a necessary evil and started seeing it as a creative expression. Once that line is crossed, there's no going back. 

Magnus: Can they be rehabilitated? Is there any hope that they could understand what they've done and find genuine remorse? 

Reid: Cameron, maybe. His psychology suggests someone who could potentially develop genuine empathy if separated from Ethan's influence and given years of intensive therapy. He's the follower in the partnership, the one who needed external validation. With proper treatment, he might eventually grasp the humanity of his victims.

Alec: And Ethan?

Reid: Ethan shows markers of antisocial personality disorder. Limited empathy, need for control, and ability to compartmentalize violence. He's high-functioning and intelligent enough to mimic appropriate emotional responses, but genuine remorse is unlikely. He'll cooperate if it serves his interests, but fundamentally changing his psychology? That's probably beyond what treatment can achieve.

Magnus: So Cameron has a chance at redemption, but Ethan doesn't. 

Hotch: I wouldn't phrase it as 'redemption'. Neither of them can undo what they'd done. Six people are dead, six families are destroyed. But Cameron might eventually understand the magnitude of his crimes and find a way to live with genuine guilt. Ethan will likely always see himself as an artist who was stopped before completing his masterpiece. 

The team sat in heavy silence, processing the reality of two young men who'd found love and used it to justify horror. 

Alec: What happens next? To them, to us? 

Hotch: They'll both be charged with six counts of first-degree murder. The DA is considering additional charges—conspiracy, kidnapping for the attempted suicide staging with you two as hostages, and potentially hate crime enhancements since all victims were gay or bisexual men. They're likely facing life without parole.

Magnus: Will there be a trial?

JJ: The DA is hoping for plea agreements. Given the evidence and the confessions, a trial would be expensive and traumatic for the victims' families. If Ethan and Cameron plead guilty, they might avoid the death penalty consideration. 

Alec: And us? What's going to happen to our business, our reputation?

Hotch: That's more complicated. Legally, you're clear—you're victims of identity theft, essentially. Your creative work was stolen and perverted. But public perception...

Magnus: Will always associate us with the murders. 

Magnus finished bitterly. 

Magnus: Every time someone sees our work, they'll think of dead bodies staged like art installations.

Prentiss: We can help with that. The BAU can make public statements clarifying that you were in no way involved, that you're victims as much as anyone. Your cooperation with the investigation, your horror at how your work was used—we can make sure that narrative reaches the public.

Alec: But it won't erase the association. Some people will always wonder. Always have that shadow of doubt. 

Hotch: Yes. That's the reality. Your business will survive this, but it will never be the same. Some clients will leave. Some people will always side-eye you. That's the cost of being unwittingly connected to a high-profile murder case.

Magnus and Alec sat with that truth, their shared dream business now forever tainted by association with serial killings. 

Alec: We could start over. New city, new name for the business, fresh start. 

Magnus: Running away. 

Magnus challenged, though not unkindly. 

Magnus: That's not very Shadowhunter of you. 

Alec: I'm not a Shadowhunter anymore. I'm a business owner whose business just became synonymous with murder. Maybe running is the smart choice. 

Magnus: Or maybe staying is the brave choice. Facing the scrutiny, rebuilding our reputation, showing people we're not defined by how someone else used our work. 

Alec: Is that what you want? To say and fight for Ethereal Designs. 

Magnus: I want us to decide together. Like we decide everything. Not out of fear or pride, but out of what's best for both of us.

Before they could continue the conversation, Garcia's face appeared on the conference room screen. 

Garcia: Sorry to interrupt, but there's been a development. Ethan Cross's lawyer just contacted the DA. Ethan wants to make a full confession in exchange for Cameron Pierce receiving a reduced sentence. 

The room went silent. 

Reid: He's trying to take all the blame. To protect Cameron from the full legal consequences. 

JJ: That's... That's actually kind of noble. In a deeply twisted way.

Magnus: It's love. Misdirected, destructive love, but love nonetheless. He's willing to sacrifice his own chances at a reduced sentence to protect Cameron.

Garcia: The DA is considering it. If Ethan confesses to being the primary actor—selecting victims, planning the kills, executing the murders—they might offer Cameron a deal. Still life in prison, but with possibility of parole after thirty years instead of life without parole.

Magnus: Will Cameron take it?

Garcia: Unknown. His lawyer is advising him to accept, but Cameron is apparently refusing. He doesn't want Ethan to sacrifice himself. He wants them to face justice together, equally.

Reid: Because accepting the deal would mean admitting Ethan was the dominant partner. It would mean acknowledging their relationship wasn't equal, that Cameron was manipulated or coerced. And that would diminish the love story they've built in their minds.

Prentiss: So they'd rather both get life without parole than admit their relationship was anything less than a perfect partnership. That's... actually consistent with their psychology. They've built their entire identity around being perfect collaborators in both art and murder."

Garcia: What do you think they should do?

Garcia asked Magnus and Alec.

Garcia: You understand their dynamic better than anyone.

Magnus and Alec exchanged another loaded glance.

Magnus: I think Cameron should take the deal. Because if there's any chance he can develop genuine remorse and understanding of what he's done, he needs to live long enough to get there. Life without parole in his twenties means dying in prison, having never grown beyond this moment. But life with the possibility of parole in his sixties? That gives him forty years to become someone capable of genuine atonement.

Alec: And that's worth more than maintaining a romantic narrative. The most loving thing Cameron could do is accept that their relationship wasn't perfect, that he was vulnerable to Ethan's influence, and that he deserves a chance at eventual rehabilitation. Refusing the deal isn't loyalty—it's pride. And pride isn't worth dying in prison for.

JJ: Should we tell them that? Would they listen?

Magnus: They might. We're the artists they idealized, the relationship they aspired to emulate. If we frame it as artistic advice rather than legal strategy—if we tell them that the most beautiful ending isn't dying in prison together, but living long enough to transform their tragedy into wisdom—they might accept it.

Hotch: Are you willing to do that? To engage with them, to potentially become more involved in their story?

Magnus looked at Alec, who nodded slightly.

Magnus: Yes. Because six families lost people they loved. If there's any chance of Cameron eventually being able to articulate genuine remorse to those families, to offer them even the smallest measure of closure, it's worth the emotional cost to us.

Alec: And because it's the right thing to do. Regardless of what they did to our business, to our reputation, to our creative work—they're still two people who found real love and used it destructively. If we can help redirect that love toward something constructive, toward genuine growth and understanding, we have an obligation to try.

Hotch studied them both carefully.

Hotch: You're remarkably compassionate, considering they nearly killed you three days ago.

Magnus: We've lived long enough to understand that compassion and accountability aren't mutually exclusive. They should face full justice for what they've done. But justice doesn't require us to dehumanize them or deny that they're capable of growth.

Hotch: Alright. We'll arrange a meeting. You can talk to them, explain why accepting the deal is the most loving choice Cameron can make. But it's supervised, recorded, and we end it the moment anyone becomes uncomfortable."

Magnus and Alec: Agreed.

Magnus and Alec said in unison

The meeting room at the Allegheny County Jail was sterile and cold, designed to strip away any sense of comfort or normality. Ethan Cross sat on one side of the table, his shoulder bandaged but healing, his expression carefully neutral. Cameron Pierce sat beside him, looking hollow and exhausted, his formerly impeccable appearance now disheveled. Magnus and Alec entered, escorted by guards and BAU agents, and sat across from the two killers. The silence was heavy with everything unsaid.

Cameron: Thank you for coming.

Cameron said, finally, his voice hoarse.

Cameron: I know you have no reason to help us.

Alec: We're not helping you. We're helping the families of your victims by trying to ensure at least one of you lives long enough to offer them genuine remorse someday.

Ethan's jaw tightened, but he said nothing.

Magnus: The DA has offered Cameron a deal. Life with the possibility of parole after thirty years in exchange for Ethan taking primary responsibility for the murders. Ethan would get life without parole.

Cameron: I know about the deal. I'm not taking it.

Magnus: Why not?

Cameron: Because it's not true. Ethan wasn't the primary actor. We were equal partners. He handled the physical aspects, I handled the aesthetic aspects. We were collaborators. Taking that deal would mean lying about our relationship, and I won't do that.

Alec: Even if it means dying in prison?

Cameron: Even then. Our relationship is the only honest thing about us. I won't cheapen it by pretending I was manipulated or coerced.

Magnus: You weren't equal partners. Ethan has antisocial personality disorder. He experiences limited empathy and views people as tools to achieve his goals. You have dependent personality disorder—you desperately need external validation and attach your identity to whoever provides that validation. That's not equality. That's complementary pathology.

Cameron flinched.

Cameron: You're wrong. We love each other. Really love each other.

Magnus: I believe you do. But love and equality aren't the same thing. Ethan, tell him the truth. Tell him why you're willing to take full responsibility.

Ethan met Magnus's cat eyes, and something passed between them—warlock to warrior, one person who'd seen too much to another.

Ethan: Because I don't care about parole. I'm never leaving prison. Whether it's life without parole or life with parole, I'll die in here. But Cameron...

He looked at Cameron with such genuine affection that even the guards shifted uncomfortably.

Ethan: Cameron could change. Could grow. Could become someone capable of genuine remorse. He deserves that chance.

Cameron: I don't want it without you.

Cameron said, tears streaming down his face. 

Cameron: I don't want to live in a world where you're gone.

Ethan: I'll still exist. I'll just be in a different prison. And you'll exist too, but with the possibility of eventually walking free. Or maybe, someday, finding a way to make amends for what we did."

Cameron: How can I make amends for murder? 

Alec: By living long enough to try. By using those thirty or forty years to understand what you did, to develop genuine empathy for your victims, to become someone capable of articulating real remorse to their families. That's the only gift you can give them now—the knowledge that at least one of their killers understands the magnitude of what was taken from them.

Cameron: And if I never develop that understanding? "If I spend forty years in prison and still feel like we were artists rather than murderers?

Magnus: Then you won't make parole. Parole boards can see the difference between genuine rehabilitation and performance. But at least you'll have had the chance to try. Refusing the deal robs you of that possibility.

Cameron looked at Ethan, searching his face.

Cameron: You really want me to take it?

Ethan: Yes. Because I love you. And love means wanting the best for someone, even if it means sacrificing your own needs or preferences. Taking the deal is the most loving thing you can do—for yourself, for the victims' families, and for me.

Cameron: How is it loving for you? 

Ethan: Because I'll spend the rest of my life in prison knowing that the person I love has a chance at redemption. That's better than knowing we're both rotting in here together with no hope of growth or change. Let me give you this, Cameron. Let me protect you one last time.

Fresh tears fell down Cameron's face.

Cameron: I don't know if I can do it without you."

Magnus: You can. Because real love doesn't require constant proximity. It survives distance and time and separation. If what you and Ethan have is real—and I believe it is—it will survive him being in a different prison. You'll write letters, you'll video call when permitted, and you'll maintain your connection. But you'll do it while you work on becoming someone worthy of eventual freedom.

Cameron: And if I never become worthy?

Alec: Then at least you tried. That's more than most killers can say.

Cameron turned to Ethan, taking his cuffed hands.

Cameron: Are you sure? Really sure?

Ethan: I've never been more sure of anything. Take the deal. Live. Grow. Become someone who understands what we did. Do it for the victims, do it for their families, do it for me. But mostly, do it for yourself. Because you deserve the chance to be more than a killer.

Cameron: Okay. Okay. I'll take the deal.

The relief in the room was palpable. Magnus caught Hotch's eye and nodded—they'd accomplished what they came to do. As they prepared to leave, Cameron called out.

Cameron: Magnus? Alec? Thank you. For seeing us as people instead of just monsters. For understanding that we really did love each other, even if we expressed it in the most destructive way possible.

Magnus: You're not just monsters. You're people who became monstrous. There's a difference. And Cameron? When you're finally capable of genuine remorse, when you can truly understand what you took from those families—that's when you'll honor what you and Ethan have. Not by dying in prison together, but by becoming living proof that even people who've done terrible things can transform.

Cameron: I'll try. I don't know if I'll succeed, but I'll try.

Alec: That's all anyone can ask.

As Magnus and Alec left the jail, stepping back into the autumn Pittsburgh sunshine, they held each other tighter than usual.

Alec: Do you think he'll actually change?

Magnus: I don't know. But at least now he has the chance. That's more than he would have had otherwise. 

Alec: Was it the right thing to do? Getting involved, convincing him to take the deal?"

Magnus: I think so. Because the alternative was two people dying in prison, having never grown beyond the moment of their crimes. This way, at least there's a possibility. And possibility is always better than certainty when it comes to redemption.

They walked in silence for a moment, processing everything that had happened over the past week—the murders, the investigation, the near-death experience, the destruction of their business's reputation.

Alec: What do we do now? About Ethereal Designs, about our life here, about everything?

Magnus: We keep going. We face the scrutiny, we rebuild our reputation, we show people that we're not defined by how someone else used our work. And we use this as a reminder of why we left the Shadow World in the first place—to create beauty, to build life, to prove that warriors can become artists without becoming monsters.

Alec: You're sure you don't want to start over somewhere else?

Magnus: I'm sure. Because running would mean letting Ethan and Cameron win. It would mean admitting that their perversion of our work destroyed us. And I won't give them that power. We built something beautiful here, Alexander. We created a life that matters, a business that helps people, a relationship that's based on genuine partnership and love. That's worth fighting for.

Alec: Even if it's hard?

Magnus: Especially because it's hard. The easy path is running. The brave path is staying and doing the work to reclaim our narrative.

Alec pulled Magnus close, pressing a kiss to his temple.

Alec: Then we stay. Together.

Magnus: Always together. That's the one thing Ethan and Cameron got right—the power of facing everything as a unified front. They just used that power for destruction instead of creation. We'll use it for rebuilding.

Six months later, the trial concluded. Ethan Cross pleaded guilty to six counts of first-degree murder and received six consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. Cameron Pierce, as part of his plea agreement, pleaded guilty to six counts of first-degree murder with the possibility of parole after thirty years. The sentencing hearing was packed with victims' families, media, and observers. Magnus and Alec sat in the gallery, bearing witness to the consequences of their unwitting role in the murders. The judge, a stern woman in her sixties with gray hair and sharp eyes, addressed both defendants before sentencing.

Judge: Mr. Cross, Mr. Pierce—in my thirty years on the bench, I have never encountered a case quite like this. Two intelligent, talented individuals who found genuine love and used it to justify the murder of six innocent people. You've described your crimes as art, as creative expression, as a way of honoring a design concept you admired. But art requires consent from all participants. Your victims never consented to becoming part of your 'installation.' They were people with lives, families, futures—all ended because you decided your emotional needs and aesthetic vision were more important than their right to live.

She looked at Cameron first.

Judge: Mr. Pierce, you have shown genuine distress at the impact of your crimes on Magnus Bane and Alexander Lightwood, whose work you admired. You've expressed regret for disrupting their lives and damaging their business. But your remorse seems limited to those you idolized rather than extending to those you murdered. That concerns me greatly. However, your cooperation with the prosecution and your willingness to accept responsibility have earned you the possibility—not the guarantee—of eventual parole. Whether you earn that parole will depend on whether you can develop genuine empathy for your victims over the next three decades.

She turned to Ethan.

Judge: Mr. Cross, you have shown no remorse for your victims. You've been cooperative in a clinical sense, providing details when pressed, but you've expressed no recognition of the enormity of your crimes. Your psychological evaluations suggest you are incapable of genuine empathy. You attempted to take full responsibility for the murders to protect Mr. Pierce, which suggests you're capable of love even if you're incapable of remorse. That's a profound tragedy—that you found the capacity to care deeply for one person while remaining unmoved by the deaths of six others.

She paused, letting her words sink in.

Judge: I'm sentencing you both to terms that reflect the gravity of your crimes. Mr. Cross, you will serve six consecutive life sentences without possibility of parole in a federal maximum-security facility. Mr. Pierce, you will serve life with the possibility of parole after thirty years, also in a federal facility. You will be housed in separate prisons with no contact permitted beyond written correspondence reviewed by prison officials. Your bond—the love you claim justified these murders—is hereby severed by order of this court. You will live out your sentences separately, with only memories and letters to sustain whatever connection remains. That separation is part of your punishment. You wanted to become art together. Instead, you'll grow old apart, each facing the consequences of your choices in isolation.

As the bailiffs moved to escort them away, Cameron looked back at Ethan one last time. The look that passed between them was complex—love, regret, sorrow, and a terrible kind of understanding that they'd destroyed something precious by using it to justify horror. Ethan didn't look away. He held Cameron's gaze until the very last moment, and just before Cameron was led through the door, he mouthed three words:

Ethan: I love you.

Cameron mouthed back:

Cameron: I know.

Then they were gone, separated forever by the consequences of their shared delusion.

In the gallery, Magnus wiped tears from his eyes.

Magnus: I'm crying for what they could have been. 

He explained to Alec.

Magnus: If they'd used that love to become better people instead of to justify murder. They could have had what we have—a real partnership built on mutual growth and shared creativity that uplifts rather than destroys.

Alec: They made their choices.

Alec replied, though his voice was gentle.

Alec: And now they'll live with those choices. Separately. For the rest of their lives.

After the sentencing, the victims' families approached Magnus and Alec. The meetings were emotional, difficult, but necessary.

Margaret Reeves: Thank you for testifying.

Said Margaret Reeves, Michael's ex-wife and mother of his children.

Margaret: For making it clear that you had no idea your work would be used this way. For not trying to minimize what they did or romanticize their relationship.

Magnus: Your husband didn't deserve what happened to him. None of the victims did. And I'm deeply sorry that my design concept provided the template for their murders.

Margaret: You didn't kill him. They did. You created art meant to honor victims. They perverted that into something evil. That's on them, not you.

Similar conversations happened with each family—painful, cathartic, necessary. By the end, Magnus and Alec felt wrung out but also strangely lighter. The families didn't blame them. Didn't hold them responsible for how their work had been twisted. That night, back at their home in Lawrenceville, Magnus and Alec sat together on their rooftop terrace, looking out over the Pittsburgh skyline.

Alec: Ethereal Designs has lost about forty percent of our clients. But the remaining sixty percent have been incredibly loyal. And we're starting to get new inquiries from people who admire how we handled the investigation and the trial.

Magnus: We're going to survive this.

Magnus said, relief evident in his voice.

Alec: More than survive. We're going to use this. I've been thinking—what if we partnered with the LGBTQ+ Alliance again? Proposed a new version of the memorial installation, but this time including the six victims of Ethan and Cameron. Showing that we can reclaim our vision, that we won't let killers define what our work means. 

Magnus turned to look at him, surprise and admiration in his cat eyes.

Magnus: That's... that's actually brilliant. Taking back the narrative by completing the project in the way it was meant to be completed. With consent, with dignity, with genuine honoring of victims rather than creation of them.

Alec: Would you want to do it? Or is it too painful, too connected to the murders?

Magnus considered carefully.

Magnus: I think I need to do it. To prove to myself and to the community that beauty can still come from tragedy without requiring tragedy to create beauty. That memorials can be meaningful without anyone having to die to fill them.

Alec: Then we'll propose it. Together. Like everything else.

Magnus: Together.

Magnus agreed, and they kissed on the rooftop, two people who'd found real love and used it to create beauty instead of horror.

*Two Years Later*

The LGBTQ+ Memorial Installation opened in Pittsburgh's Point State Park on a cool October evening. Magnus and Alec stood before their completed work, surrounded by families, community members, and the BAU team that had investigated the murders. The installation was breathtaking—mannequins positioned in various poses of peace and connection, adorned with items donated by victims' families and community members. But there was one crucial difference from the original design: each mannequin had a plaque with the victim's name, a photo from their life, and a quote from someone who loved them. The six victims of Ethan Cross and Cameron Pierce were honored alongside historical hate crime victims, but the context was completely different. These weren't bodies displayed as art—these were lives celebrated, remembered, valued.

JJ: It's beautiful.

JJ said, standing beside Magnus.

JJ: It's exactly what the original vision should have been.

Magnus: It took two years and a lot of community input. But yes. This is what I wanted to create—a space that honors without sensationalizing, that mourns without despairing, that shows that every life lost to violence mattered.

Prentiss: How does it feel? To finally complete the project?

Magnus: Healing. Like I'm taking back something that was stolen from me and Alec. Like we're proving that our vision wasn't about death—it was always about life and love and the importance of remembering.

Alec joined them, having finished speaking with some of the victims' families.

Alec: They're happy. Margaret Reeves said seeing her husband honored this way—as the man he was rather than just as a murder victim—gives her family closure.

Magnus: That's all we can hope for. That this helps, even a little.

As the sun set over the installation, casting golden light across the peaceful figures, the BAU team gathered together one last time to discuss the case.

Moran: Any word on how Ethan and Cameron are doing?

Reid: Ethan is exactly as we expected. Cooperative when it benefits him, showing no signs of remorse or growth. His prison psychologist says he's one of the most unreachable inmates she's ever encountered.

Morgan: And Cameron?

Reid: Cameron is... complicated. He's been participating in every therapy program available. His psychologist says he's making progress—he can now articulate that the victims were real people, that they suffered, that murder is wrong. But she's not sure if he truly believes it or if he's performing rehabilitation.

Rossi: Time will tell. He's got twenty-eight years until he's eligible for parole. That's a lot of time for either genuine growth or increasingly sophisticated performance.

JJ: Do they still write to each other?

Reid: Every week. Prison officials review the letters, and they're... heartbreaking, actually. They talk about their feelings, about missing each other, about regretting that they can't grow old together. But they never talk about the victims. Never acknowledge the lives they destroyed. It's like those six people don't exist in their narrative.

Prentiss: That's the tragedy. They found real love, but they used it so destructively that they can't even properly mourn what they lost without acknowledging what they took from others. And acknowledging that would mean admitting their love story isn't romantic—it's horrific.

Morgan: Do you think they'll ever truly understand?

Reid: Cameron might. In twenty years, maybe thirty, with consistent therapy and genuine effort. But Ethan? No. He'll die in prison believing he was an artist who was stopped before completing his masterpiece.

Hotch: And Magnus and Alec?

Hotch asked, watching the couple interact with community members at the installation.

Hotch: How are they really doing?"

Prentiss: They're remarkable.

Prentiss said with genuine admiration.

Prentiss: They took something that could have destroyed them—their work being used as a murder template, their business being associated with serial killings, their creative vision being perverted—and they transformed it into something healing. That takes incredible strength and partnership.

JJ: They're proof that love doesn't have to be destructive. That you can be intensely devoted to someone and still maintain your morality, your empathy, your humanity. They're everything Ethan and Cameron could have been if they'd made different choices.

As darkness fell, the installation was lit with soft lights that made the figures glow ethereally. Magnus and Alec stood together, arms around each other, looking at what they'd created.

Alec: Do you ever think about them? About Ethan and Cameron?

Magnus: Sometimes. I wonder if they ever truly understood what they destroyed—not just the six lives they took, but the life they could have had together. If they'd just asked for help, if they'd recognized their obsession was unhealthy, if they'd chosen therapy instead of murder—they could have had forty or fifty years together. Instead, they have letters and memories and separate cells.

Alec: Do you forgive them?" Alec asked.

Magnus considered carefully.

Magnus: I forgive them for stealing my design, for damaging our business, for nearly killing us during their attempted murder-suicide. Those things hurt us, but we survived and became stronger. But I can't forgive them for the murders. That's not my forgiveness to give. Only the victims' families can decide whether to offer that, and even then, forgiveness doesn't erase consequences.

Alec: That's very wise.

Alec said, pressing a kiss to Magnus's temple.

Magnus: I've had centuries to learn that wisdom doesn't require forgiveness and forgiveness doesn't require forgetting. Ethan and Cameron will spend the rest of their lives in prison. That's just. But I can also acknowledge that they were people who found real love and made terrible choices with it. Both things can be true.

Alec: Do you think our memorial helps? Does it do what you wanted it to do?

Magnus looked at the installation, at the families gathered around their loved ones' representations, at the community members reading the plaques and learning the stories.

Magnus: Yes.

He said with certainty.

Magnus: It shows that death doesn't have to be sensationalized to be acknowledged. That victims can be honored as people, not just as a tragedy. That art can come from mourning without requiring violence to create it.

Alec: We did it.

Alec said wonderingly.

Alec: We actually did it. We took back our vision and completed it the right way.

Magnus: We did. Together. Like everything else.

They stood together as night fell fully, two people who'd found real love and used it to create beauty, to heal trauma, to prove that devotion doesn't require destruction and partnership doesn't require murder. Behind them, the BAU team watched quietly.

Prentiss: They're going to be okay.

Prentiss said with certainty.

Hotch: More than okay. They're going to thrive. Because they understand something Ethan and Cameron never did—that real love is about building each other up, not burning the world down.

Rossi: And that. Is the difference between a love story and a tragedy.