Chapter Text
Izzy ran into the command centre in a panic with her whip in her hand and thinking about the emergency procedures for the possible emergency, wanting to take control of the situation until her brother came from his room, him retiring for the night less than four hours before with barely any ability to keep his eyes open after being pulled in too many directions.
She looked around only to not see anything out of order. She saw some of the newer Academy hires in a corner, Raj talking to them, but with no weapons ready or equipped for battle like they should be when the alarm was set. “What happened? Where’s the threat?” She asked loudly and waited for one of the cadets to answer. She also timed how well everyone moved to report back to Alec to decide whether or not they would need better emergency handling.
He looked at those next to him, but they all shrugged, letting him take charge without any fight, which struck him as odd, but he wouldn’t fight them for the glory then. “We have an intruder.” He explained and expected Izzy to immediately agree with him, maybe give him a word about mentioning it to her parents when they returned. All he got was a confused look and then an exasperated one when he pointed out to the newcomer sitting in the infirmary.
She waited to see if he would rectify his statement, hoping he was making a very stupid joke, but when she saw his expression she realised it was futile. She wanted to slap him a little, yet she restrained for her brother’s sake and her goal of lessening his amount of paperwork not to add to it and the redhead taking her sweet time was tiring enough. “That’s what you woke up half the Institute for? How about using your brain and asking the person on guard a simple question of who the hell is that?” She asked rudely, her patience with the guy being done the moment she figured he truly didn’t see what he did wrong and was clearly too arrogant to admit it in the situation he did recognise his mistake.
Both of them and those behind them turned their heads as Alec entered the room in his black pajama pants and an old T-shirt with his bow ready to be used at the slightest wrong movement. “Izzy? Give me a report of the situation. What’s the problem, how big is it and how prepared are we?” He asked in a succession of words, not allowing anyone to cut in and his Head voice was on. He scanned his surroundings and made small notes of every exit point and saw the people on guard already in their positions, waiting for his command and nodded approvingly in his head.
“It is-” Tried Izzy to explain while thinking of what she should say to make Alec go back to sleep after this particular fiasco.
Before Izzy could continue there was a new presence joining them. “What in Edom’s name is this Institute attracting that passed through my wards?” Came Magnus Bane’s voice as he entered the Institute with his magic ready to help the Nephilims, mostly Alexander and Max though.
He normally didn’t ward any places with the exception of his homes or if one of his weaker or newer warlocks asked for his support in setting their wards up, so the New York Institute was one of the limited number of buildings that had only his magic protecting it. He was sleeping on his couch after failing to stay awake for the Friends marathon he was having with Chairman Meow and Cat when he was woken up by an alert from the Institute. He added this type of security without anyone else’s knowledge after he had met by accident one of the smaller ones that resided inside the Institute, a few years back. He wanted to make sure the child would be safe when they were inside at least. He wasted no time in portaling to the Institute once the alert went off with only a small break for him to change into actual clothes and to make some light makeup reside on his face, confident the Institute could handle two minutes of waiting, especially considering he normally wouldn’t have come at all.
Alec was the first one to get over his shock and that was for the best considering his political position. “High warlock Bane, good morning.” He greeted and made sure to salute him in the customary warlock way even if his head was pounding like crazy and he could barely keep his eyes open. He shouldn’t let himself run this dry anytime soon or he would surely pass out. “I am unsure of the situation at hand. I was sleeping when the alarm was pulled. Izzy was about to tell me what exactly was the problem, though I am becoming less worried and more sceptical since nobody fired anything and no other alarms are going off.” He cleared the air and did his best to be polite since the man hadn’t come there as his friend, but as the High Warlock of Brooklyn and nodded curtly at his sister to tell him what was going on.
She was normally okay with playing the middleman between the cadets and Alec when her brother was pissed or tired, but Raj’s arrogance and complete lack of Shadowhunter values was concerning and with what Alec had in mind for the Institute when he took charge it was better for him to cut any possible problem before they could cause irreversible damage. “About that, dear Raj, why don’t you explain what happened?” She worded it like a suggestion, but not one of the people present or watching from the sidelines could honestly call it such. It was an order, but dressed in a polite packaging to not seem like trying to blame others or ordering subordinates when the Head was there. It was a show of respect and appreciation for the highest ranking person in the immediate vicinity that any Shadowhunter that wished to advance in their career and wanted to offer support would do.
“I think there is a more pressing problem. I don’t understand what the warlock is doing here. There’s no need for him.” He said and he could swear he heard someone gasp from his right, but he couldn’t turn his head to see who it was without poor etiquette and blatant disrespect towards his Acting Head which could even give Alec the chance to dishonourably discharge him if he so wished.
He set his arrows and bow aside, realising there was no immediate threat and wished to strangle the shadowhunter in front of him for not only troubling everyone, but also giving him and Magnus dirty looks when he was the one who made a mistake. It seemed like he was forgetting who he was speaking to and needed a reminder. “Raj, you’re speaking to the High Warlock of Brooklyn. I expect you to show the same respect you hold for me, your Acting Head, if not more when speaking directly to him or about him. That’s without mentioning his position as the one who made our wards and the person who you woke up before the chickens rose with your bad decision making skills. Do you understand?” He made sure to glare back at him, not allowing his eyes to waver, and was glad to see the former start to see he would not win between the two of them and realise he was out of his depth. He wouldn’t let a young shadowhunter with too much ego and less training than him judge how he was dressed when he was supposed to be sleeping, especially since he knew the whole Institute was aware of him barely taking breaks or resting even if they would never dare to mention it.
The other cadets were giving Raj disappointed looks. The man clearly messed up and didn’t even have the honour and self respect to admit it, without even mentioning the clear disrespect towards his commanding officer. They were also really upset he disturbed them when Alec seemed to finally take a break and sleep. They all noticed his dark circles and the mountains of paperwork he had on his desk whenever they went to his office besides his normal patrol duty that he insisted was included in his job attributions even if they all doubted all that he did on a daily basis were actually in his job description. They respected the man so much for all that he accomplished and kept working towards, being only twenty one years old while also doing the job of three people without a complaint.
The Shadowhunter paused for a few moments, trying to see if the Head was truly insisting on him showing respect to a warlock, a demon blooded creature who had inferior blood. Alec glared right back without hesitation and crossed his arms. Not to mention the others were also giving him looks and huffing at him, one or two even shaking their head with disgust. “Yes, sir.” He finally agreed, hating that Maryse or Robert the true Heads weren’t here to see how their son was leading things while they were gone and the way he behaved around filth.
He had to imagine the few more sleepless nights he had ahead of him to finally get ahead of his paperwork to keep himself from smiling at the face Raj was making. He had seen him look less disgusted with ichor duty than apologising to his superior officer. “Glad to hear that. Now I believe you owe the High Warlock an apology for both being disrespectful and also for waking him up just as the sun rises for no apparent threat.” He should not feel this amount of glee from such a simple task.
Raj had to bite his tongue until he could feel it bleed to keep himself from saying something he would regret, not actually regret but that would cause too much trouble for him than it was worth at the moment. “I apologise, High Warlock.” He said with as much disdain as he could put into his words, making it clear that he wasn’t actually agreeing to apologise for anything, but avoiding punishment for disobeying.
He almost hadn’t heard the words said by the Shadowhunter. His mind was preoccupied with shamelessly staring at Alexander in his sleeping clothes that somehow showed off his Shadowhunter body which made all the mandatory training sessions he knows they have to do suddenly seem important and helpful. “Apology accepted.” He matched the insolent Shadowhunter’s tone, also not that impressed only for different reasons than Raj, if he heard right.
He was so tired and he despised the way his subordinate was behaving. The man was too entitled for the subpar performance he had. “Expect repercussions later for this behaviour. Now tell me what exactly warranted a full Institute alarm in your mind.” Alec called the attention back to the problem at hand. He didn’t want to get into other problems until he had a better understanding on what exactly happened and then he’d delegate the punishment.
He threw one last dirty look at the warlock when he felt one of his comrades elbow him sharply in the ribs. “There’s an unknown and unrecorded person sleeping unattended in the Infirmary. She could be a spy or demon.” He greeted out with barely contained disdain. Unfortunately, he couldn’t be too obvious with his hate or Alec would actually have to transfer him out despite the fact he had to keep him.
He had to cover his mouth to avoid yawning. He was exhausted and it didn’t seem likely he would get back to bed too soon thanks to the Shadowhunter. “Yes, Raj. Your mind just jumps to the conclusion of a demon or spy when we have alarms, sensors plus wards that keep demons out and alert us of any other type of unauthorised people approaching.” He pointed out in his detached voice that Jace always complained that scared everyone much more than his Head voice, the latter demanding respect, but the first making you be scared for your safety.
“It was a mistake.” He defended himself loudly and he noticed everyone shake their heads and mutter under their breaths. He had a feeling he'd have to watch his food and shoes for a while or he’d accidentally get sick or eat something disgusting. He could almost swear he heard Alice say that she’d only give him food cooked by Izzy for this.
A coward, he was mistaken, he refused to respect protocol, was disrespectful and then had the nerve to try and justify it. Alec was horribly disappointed and decided enough was enough. He was tired of dealing with problems caused by him and he was quickly approaching the opportunity to kick him out, so he put his tired political brain to work and came up with a solution. “A mistake you shouldn’t have made, especially not when we have strict protocols and rules in place to avoid these types of situations.” He cut in before the man had the chance to continue with his self pity. It was disgraceful and ridiculous. Any family as important as Raj’s would be ashamed to hear and see their heir behave in such a manner in front of the Acting Head and the rest of the Institute. He’d have to show them the footage the next time he went to Idris. “You disrupted almost half of the Institute’s relaxation or sleeping time which you are aware is limited enough as it is, neglected your duties which include knowing exactly how to act and what to do when you consider a situation a risk and not to mention disrespect an important ally of this Institute who was bothered and taken away from his own house to come and waste precious time on you.” He listed his offences in a rapid succession and he saw the moment it registered that what he did was actually grave enough to warrant even a dishonourable discharge if Alec wanted to. Alec was tired and done with his attitude so he planned to make him suffer before deciding what to do with him. “Your behaviour put our Institute at risk, disturbed and bothered your comrades and you have shown clear disrespect to both your commanding officer and guest that is also your superior in his rank. Consider this a first and final warning for you considering this appalling type of mistake and behaviour or the next time you and the other people that have not stopped you from making said mistakes will be out of my Institute before you can say demon. You, as well as those who were with you but didn’t correct you will be off patrol for the next two months and will have an additional mandatory four hour daily training session per day, a two hour session on learning about our Institute’s protocol also per day, politics, history and a basic amount of knowledge on the other Shadow factions as well as ichor duty for those two months. At the end of the period I will question you on both protocol, other factions of the Shadow World and appropriate manner of speaking with superiors and allies with a possible demotion in your future or transfer to another Institute based on my evaluation, not taking dishonourable discharge out of the equation either. Is that clear?” He voiced the punishment loudly for all the people of his Institute to hear. He wouldn’t tolerate this type of behaviour and they better learn early or they would be put in the same position if he felt forgiving. He was their leader and some seemed to have forgotten that fact. He wasn’t the oldest Lightwood or a part of the Seelie Court in name only.
The ones who were with Raj when it happened had widened and fearful eyes. They hadn’t expected to receive punishment too and it was also extremely risky to not be absolutely perfect. They had no doubt their Acting Head would discharge them without a second thought if they didn’t comply. “Yes, head Lightwood.” The men nodded in agreement, the other members of the Institute also silently agreeing to the warning their Acting Head had issued. They heard the subtext of what Alec said.
“Good.” Alec almost smiled when he didn’t see any protest from the others. The other entitled Shadowhunters were almost dancing in their boots that they got away unscathed before he rectified his wording to include them in the punishment and were now clearly regretting their behaviour. “Everyone go back to your task at hand or to whatever you were doing before the alarm went off. These five will also do the dishes and cooking as a way to make up for the time you lost with this mess for the next week.” He announced and allowed himself the barest hint of a smile as everyone except those punished started to cheer at the new addition. He couldn’t let his people be at a disadvantage because of stupidity. “I apologise, Magnus, for my people’s apparent lack of manners and knowledge. I promise I’m trying to educate them, but it’s a slow process.”
Magnus had to keep himself from blinking rapidly in shock. Seeing Alexander reprimand his own because they were rude to him and giving Raj and his friends an actual punishment and not just a slap on the wrist was turning his brain into mush. He had to keep thinking of maths and physics books as well as the forties to keep himself from saying or reacting in a way that could endanger the alliance between Shadowhunters and warlocks. His people wouldn’t take it too well if the reason the Shadowhunters were at a cross with them would be his lack of self control instead of their demon blood. “Alexander, you don’t have to worry about me. You have already proved to me that you mean what you said, but it was certainly refreshing to see a Shadowhunter be reprimanded for being disrespectful.” He assured as quickly as he could after prompting his mouth to work. He planned to speak of this with Ragnor and Catarina. Maybe they would ask him if he was willing to share the memory with them or he wasn’t sure they would believe it.
“Of course. Like I said, you’re one of our allies and the one who provides us with our wards, you deserve some basic courtesy even if Raj doesn’t seem to agree.” Alec almost scoffed as he mentioned the other man. He couldn’t understand why he didn’t just go into politics or try and stay in Idris where he actually had the chance of meeting people who were pointlessly making mistakes or shared his values.
He noticed that tone as he spoke to the Shadowhunter, but he believed he might’ve misinterpreted it. He was starting to doubt it, from what he seemed to gather about Alexander, the man despised lies and hidden intentions more than anyone. “You don’t appear to like him much. Why keep him then?” He asked cautiously. The two of them have been speaking through texts or phone calls when they could, but he was unsure what was crossing the line.
Alec ran a hand through his hair. He was exhausted. He couldn’t wait to pass out in his bed and take advantage of that nature’s blessing that was waiting to be used to refresh him even better than sleep. “My great-grandfather owes his family for support for a law proposal. They cashed it in after that walking assault charge graduated and he insisted that he wanted to join the New York Institute. I read his submission and refused said transfer, but like I said, the family called the favour in. I have to keep him for a full year before I can kick him out without being considered dishonest, though ten months have already passed.” He explained and hoped that Magnus’ opinion of him hadn’t changed just because he kept Raj as a member of the Institute.
He could see the whole event took a toll on Alexander, especially with how tired he already was, so he was ready to end the conversation, but he caught something in the explanation that he wanted some clarification for. “So when the punishment ends…”
He already thought through the options he had and he was honestly relieved with how things worked out in a very complicated and tiring way. “Depending on whether or not he decides to become a decent Shadowhunter that at least pretends to care about his vow and respects my rules I will keep him. Otherwise, I will have the opportunity to get rid of him.” He shrugged and tried to keep himself from yawning. He kept exhausting himself and his body somehow noticeably complained only when Magnus was near which he hated. He didn’t want the man to think he was bored or trying to find excuses to cut their conversations short.
“Win-win situation?” He tried to point out what he hoped was the good part of the whole ordeal. He wasn’t even sure what was considered a good thing or not, because from what he had seen so far Nephilims were incredibly weird when it came to their feelings and their deals and honour.
He rubbed his eyes and silently yawned, hoping Magnus wouldn’t take offence to it. He was going to go back to bed the moment he finished speaking with the warlock. “With how tough doing politics is it’s a miracle, but yes.” He nodded almost out of reflex, used to over approving his decisions or thoughts since his subordinates always looked a little doubting on whether or not he meant his answer, Maryse and Robert succeeding to traumatise them into double or triple checking. “I should go back to sleep. I apologise for disrupting your night or rather morning, Magnus.” He offered a tired smile that was more honest than some of the brightest grins or loudest laughs Magnus was given.
“Don’t worry. Have a good sleep, Alexander.” He said as he wordlessly casted a spell to help the Shadowhunter rest better for a shorter period of time. He didn’t want to think too much at the crumbling walls around his heart, being carefully but rapidly dismounted by the son of the one who tormented the rest of the world.
__________
Simon was cursing Jocelyn’s choice to move next to his family and not tell anything to Clary about the Shadow World as he paced around the outside of their house. He could feel the magical energy surrounding, suffocating the home of his best friend. He almost tasted the power as he approached the building.
It had been pointed out many times before that he tended to overthink and ramble when he was upset or excited or anxious or most of the time if he was completely honest with himself, so he tried to pay attention and stop himself from rambling out loud as much as he could. “Where could she possibly be? They wouldn’t take her to the Institute, right? They would if she somehow gave them proof that she has angel blood and if they found her attacked by demons.” He came up with that conclusion as he remembered the incident with Clary and the demons and Shadowhunters. He was surprised they hadn’t taken or questioned her the moment she butted in. “Please let her be okay.” He spoke to no one in particular, not knowing who to even address his plea to.
Just from around the corner came one of the few people he had left that he could consider family. “Simon, what are you doing here?” Questioned Luke, nervously watching the apartment. He couldn’t let the boy get too close or his smell would linger and he’d be easier to track, he wanted at least one of his kids to be safe.
It was finally the time to see whether or not he was a decent actor. “I planned to meet with Clary to get some waffles and do a Star Wars marathon, but the house is destroyed. The police said it happened almost a week ago, but Clary texted me just like normal so I had no idea.” He played the card of the lost friend without Clary, it seemed to do the trick every time. He pretended it didn’t sting. “Do you know where Clary and Jocelyn are? Are they safe? Are they okay?” He asked in a frenzy, hoping that if he sounded spooked enough maybe he would get an actual answer.
“I wasn’t home when this happened, but I met up with them as soon as I got there . We’re staying at a hotel for a few days. Why don’t you go home, Simon? I’ll have Clary call you when she can.”
Apparently this day was not working with him. He just wanted to go to his hidden corner in the garden and wait for night to fall, so he could meet with his boyfriend. “But-” He tried to see whether his puppy eyes would do the trick.
He hated lying to the closest person he had to a son, but he would not have both of his children in danger, he wasn’t sure he could survive it. “There’s nothing you can do. I’m handling it, Simon. You should just relax and wait for Clary to call, okay?” He used his cop voice, knowing it always got the terrible duo the two teenagers were to do what they needed to. “Sorry you didn’t get that marathon. I’m sure you two can reschedule.”
That was it, he couldn’t push any more. “Of course. Bye, Luke.” He said disappointedly and made it a point to get out of his line of sight and hide behind a wall, close enough to hear and next to a bin to hide his scent.
“Bye, Simon.” Luke called out after him and then immediately took out his phone and dialled the number he needed. “Alec, I need your help. My wife and her daughter were attacked and I can’t find them. I’ve been looking for almost a week. There’s a reason I haven’t told you too much about my past or life outside the pack and I’ll tell you, just not over the phone. She’s eighteen, white, redhead, green eyes, tall and name’s Clary.” Luke was nodding at his phone and his posture visibly relaxed the more he listened to what the other person was saying on the other line. “You have her? Thank the Angel and thank you. I’ll meet you there.” He sighed and ended the call before taking off to the Institute.
Well, that enlightening conversation certainly answered his questions, but he was still pissed at Luke for lying and Clary for not staying where she was supposed to. He’d think she learned her lesson after almost being killed by a demon, he underestimated the little amount of self control she had. “What the hell have you gotten yourself into this time, Fray?” He asked aloud, hoping some entity heard him and could grace him with the answer, but all he got was some dirty water sprayed over his shirt by a passing car which he guessed was a sign to how the situation would go to shit. He pulled up Find my phone on his phone and planned to track his father figure until he found the location of the Institute.
__________
Alec woke up late in the afternoon after taking a well deserved break. He was walking towards the kitchen to start to prepare for the cooking session with the kids. As he was passing by the command centre he noticed his sister and not only that but something that he had missed the last time he saw her due to the situation. “What is that in your hair?” He tried to keep his calm as he assessed the situation. He wanted, needed verbal confirmation as to what was happening because this was definitely unexpected if he was right.
Izzy startled from where she was looking over some reports at her brother’s words. She expected him to just pass by her. “Just a flower, nothing too important. I thought it would match with my braid.” She shrugged, trying not to show how fast her heart was beating at the question. She knew she forgot to do something, she just didn’t expect Alex to notice.
“Izzy, your hair is almost never tied.” Pointed out her brother and looked at her hair in awe and something similar to fear but that she couldn’t place.
She didn’t like the way he was looking at her. She would not make the mistake of taking the flowers out of her room ever again. “I just wanted a small change. It’s not a big deal.” She continued with her act even if both of them knew it was bullshit.
He just shook his head in response. This was huge. He never expected he’d have to have a talk like this with his sister. “With that type of flower it is. Let's continue this talk privately.” He whispered to her and grabbed her arm, pulling her towards his office, the kids would have to wait until he finished with his sister. “Izzy, I’m your older brother and related to Seelies I’d have to be blind and stupid to not realise what that flower represents.” He opened the conversation sternly. It was one thing not to tell him about Meliorn while he was just a fling or she was in denial, but this was too far. He was hurt that she hid it from him.
“You know what it means?” She asked with wonder. She hadn’t succeeded to figure anything out about it, so she was glad that her brother could at least give her answers even if he was hurt by her secret.
Her tone made him relax and become tense at the same time. He was glad his sister wouldn’t keep such a huge secret from him, but he also wasn’t sure he was the right person to have this talk with her. He’d have to make do. “Of course I do. I assumed you did too, but your tone suggests the opposite.”
“My- The guy I’m seeing offers me these flowers when we meet. I wanted to try and figure out if I could wear them since they didn’t seem to die no matter how long ago I got them.” It was a safe answer, right? She didn’t want to rock the boat too much. Maybe her brother had no idea what was with the flower and the chances of the flower being important were slim.
Alec almost spat out the water he was drinking at the admission. Angel, his sister was completely blind to this part of his world. He knew he should’ve given her books on Seelie relationships after she started dating Meliorn. “He offers them to you each time you meet?” “For how long?”
She was hesitant to tell him the truth but it wouldn’t help her if she lied. Plus, Alec didn’t seem too put out by the news, more worried than anything. “Ever since the night he asked if I wanted to move from friendship to a no strings attached agreement.” She watched as his eyes widened for a second before he controlled his face to go into that annoying poker face that she could never quite crack. “Your face is doing that typical Alec frown and it’s worrying me. Did I do something wrong by accepting these or what?” She asked in a small voice. She hoped her assumptions were mistaken, she loved her flowers and didn’t want to give them back.
He’d get her all the books possible on Seelies after they finished this talk. He also would need a strong cocktail and to kick Meliorn for never making his intentions clear to his Shadowhunter sister who was new to relationships and especially interracial relationships. “These flowers aren’t commonly given.” He explained in the most easy and uncomplicated way he could the significance of receiving a flower.
“I gathered that much.” Izzy snapped at him lightly and gave him an unimpressed look. “Now spill.” She demanded and pouted her lower lip a little, the magic that always made her brother cave.
There came the first shock of their talk, laying down the foundation of understanding of the concept. It was a lot to take in. “These are soul flowers, Izzy. Seelies are very protective of them. Seelies, as you know, are part angel, so they’re quite similar to us, Nephilims, in some ways, even if the Clave doesn’t want to admit it. They’re very mission oriented, cunning, protective and in search of a challenge, like us. The most important similarity, in my opinion, is that they also love only once. They might be immortal, they might pretend to move on from their beloved in case of death, they might say they love many things, but they only truly love one person in the romantic way, just like we do. They love once and so fiercely and passionately that they usually bond so when one of them dies, the other does with them just to not live in a world without their beloved.”
She was as confused as she was angry. She couldn’t believe how little they actually knew about these people they were supposed to protect and work with. It was embarrassing for the Clave to leave them so unprepared for who they were dealing with. “I knew the Clave was cold and never seemed to truly care about us, but to force our hands that way, make us blind to who is truly around us was a stupid choice. We might be taught to listen and not question orders, but we’re still part mundane, there’s a part of us that will always yearn to feel free and the tighter the leash, the more you’ll want to break it. Mistake on their part for adding spikes to it, because the younger generation knows how to bite. We might not show it very well, we might not seem like it, but we’re starting to ask questions, we’re starting to find things out for ourselves. The more we learn that we were held back, the more we’ll be fighting to be free. It was their mistake to mess with us and they’ll get hurt in the end. And thanks to your work, Alec, our Institute is the first one who takes the step towards a better future.” Her chest was puffing and her body was just itching to get her whip out and take her anger out of a dummy in the training room.
“Thanks, Izzy.” He smiled at the end of her rant. He was honoured to hear how high his sister thought of him. “Back to my Seelie lesson. In certain mythologies and practices, our souls have one small piece be a part of something outside of us. Some describe pets, others describe a certain tattoo, for Seelies, since they’re spirits of nature, they have flowers as that small part of their soul. They’re protective of them and each person has a unique flower. As I told you, these flowers are a part of a Seelie’s soul, they are an image of their personality and also the way they love. They offer a flower as a way to court you, a way to tell you they love you, that their soul is open for you to take only if you’re willing to accept it. Not many do this though. They’re extremely possessive and protective of their flowers. Just as there are not a lot of Seelies who have an endangered species as their match, that’s mostly for royalty and important people of the court. This special pretty flower belongs to only one Seelie, Prince Meliorn.” He was once again glad that he and Meliorn never quite had a nephew, uncle relationship and rather a friendship because he would’ve been completely uncomfortable and out of his depth otherwise.
Could her day get any more shocking? She was ready for Alec to announce that he was eloping with Magnus in Edom any second now with the rate things were going. “Meliorn is a prince?”
He was going to murder him for letting out so many details. He was not equipped or willing to turn his sister’s life upside down in a single conversation. “Of course. He’s the heir to the throne.” He announced the latest news about her partner to his sister. They’d have to take a break soon if they continued with all the reveals. “Are you okay?” He asked, his voice filled with concern as he noticed the tears gathering in Izzy’s eyes and the way her breathing was becoming more and more harsh.
“No, I didn’t know that the guy I’ve been seeing for the last two years was a prince and apparently heir and he’s been leaving me soul flowers and I think I like him. Oh my Angel! I like him! Maybe even love him… I can’t like him! I certainly can’t love him! Maryse and Robert will kill me! Jace will kill him! I’ll never be able to be with him. Maryse has been hinting at marriage for a while. Marriage! Do you think she’d do that to us? Of course she will! Fucking Maryse Lightwood never cares about anyone but her bloody reputation and her precious name! How she’d turn blue if she heard I've been seeing a Seelie prince for the last two years. I want to tell her just to spite her! But I can’t use Meliorn like that. Oh my Angel, Meliorn! What will I do about him? I can’t see him! I can’t break up with him! I will die alone and loveless in this Institute while you’re going to be in the Consul’s office, because you’re smart and a revolutionist and will fight for change until it happens or you die!” She said in a single breath and started to cry.
“Izzy, let’s breathe a little. You’re going to have a panic attack at this rate.” Alec comforted his sister, drawing a calming rune on her shoulder and rubbing her back. “Breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe out. I’m here for you and so will Jace. Both of us will make sure you get the chance to do what you wish. Three go in, three come out, right?” He encouraged her. He’d have a talk with Jace at some point too. He kissed the top of her head, a habit he started as a way to comfort his younger siblings ever since they were kids and scared of storms or hidden monsters under the bed.
She breathed in and relaxed slightly. She smiled at him and couldn’t help but feel so grateful and undeserving for having such a great big brother. “Three come in, three come out.” She nodded in agreement.
“Want to talk me through what you’re feeling right now?” He had to get her to open up. It wasn’t good for her to bottle things up.
“Maybe… I’m terrified now.” She admitted shakily. She felt raw and exposed right then. She took the flower out of her hair and started to play with it, the familiar smell giving her the strength she needed to continue. “You remember why Meliorn and I met for the first time. It wasn’t new for me to meet a Seelie, so I didn’t think too much of it. When we started speaking it went well beyond what we were supposed to talk about. The two of us clicked in a way I never experienced before. He was fascinated by my passion for pathology. He said mortals who weren’t terrified of death were few, apparently even most Shadowhunters fear death at the back of their minds and didn’t want to deal with it more than possible. I was the one who asked whether or not I had the chance to meet him again. He left me a pebble and said to throw it in the river when I had the time to meet with him again. He didn’t care about the sins of our parents, he didn’t care I was a Shadowhunter, he cared about my personality and my dreams.” Her tone turned dreamy and loving at the last part. It had been a childhood dream of hers to find someone sweet and that understood her without one ounce of judgement. “It took me two weeks before I could sneak off again, so we could meet and he came like he was just waiting on the other side for a sign from me, which I know sounds self centred. We became friends fairly quickly and met as much as our schedules allowed. And we did that for two years. Four months after my eighteenth birthday he met with me at the Botanical Garden, where we first met, and he was holding a lily in his hand. He gave it to me and confessed he liked me as more than a friend and was willing to remain as such if I didn’t return his feelings. What happened next is not appropriate for a talk with my brother.” She teased and Alec just rolled his eyes. He was used to her antics. “And we just kept meeting. Technically we’re nothing serious, but it never felt casual. He is like a breeze on a hot summer day. He can calm me when no one else can. He matches me.”
He was so glad to hear that they had each other. All he heard from Meliorn was also the same and the flowers were just another proof of how well the two of them matched and the depth of their feeling. “I think you answered your own question, Iz.” He nudged her gently. His sister found the love he always wanted for her and he could not be happier and prouder.
The whole conversation felt like a fever dream to her. She couldn’t believe her brother. She was so surprised. “You’re not upset?” She didn’t know why she was trying to look a gift horse in the mouth.
“I never said anything to not force you to tell me what you weren’t ready to share, but I knew of the relationship from the beginning. He asked me whether or not he could date you.”
“You know him?” She asked cautiously.
It was time to reveal the last piece of the puzzle. Anything else and it was Meliorn’s job, he already did most of the dirty work. “He’s technically my uncle. He wanted to make sure I wouldn’t have a problem with it and that he wouldn’t cause a fight between us. I told him I only wanted you both to be happy and he was already achieving that while you two were just friends.”
She was stuck on the first words. She must’ve misheard it. “He’s what now?”
“Don’t make it weird. It’s nothing like that and I don’t have a problem with it like I have already stated.” He shrugged it off. He didn’t want too much about it and it was annoying that it was all people wanted to talk to him about.
She simply stared at him for a few seconds before she hugged him close. “You’re a weirdo. Thank you for the support, big brother. I love you.” She whispered to him and she felt him kiss her on the top of her head again.
“I love you too, Iz.” He smiled, hugging her as close as he could. Then an idea struck him. It was risky and ballsy, but it was perfect. “Come with me.” He told her and almost laughed at her confused face. “Come with me to celebrate the solstice in the Seelie Realm. You never had the chance to meet my mothers for more than a quick hello and I’m sure Meliorn will be delighted to see you.”
As much as the idea excited her she didn’t want to bring trouble. It was a time of celebration and family and love. “I don’t know. Wouldn’t it be weird that I show up uninvited to a family event?”
Alec pretended to be offended at her question. “You’re my sister and Meliorn’s chosen, you’re family. The only reason I hadn’t asked you before to come with me was to not blow the fact that I knew of your secret relationship.” He told her a little white lie. It was true, but she also needed a bond with someone in the family and unfortunately being his sister didn’t count.
“It’s still a little weird that you knew and approved of me dating your uncle.” She told him as she started to make a list in her head about what she had to do to be ready.
He was so done with that question. If there wasn’t a chance of her finding out he wouldn’t have told her. He was tired. “You never met him when you were young or have any familial relationship to him. It’s not that weird.”
“I’ll believe you for the sake of my relationship.” Izzy told him with a teasing tone. “You text Magnus and I’ll look for what to wear.” She announced his task as she started to look through her wardrobe “I don’t have anything to wear!” He heard her yell as he left the room. He laughed as he walked away.
__________
In his office, Raphael was trying to complete his paperwork when he saw a portal open. He just sighed deeply and tried to keep his focus on the reports from the accountants. He’d have to ask Simon if he could do it instead and fire the incompetent fool that was trying to rob him blind with his prices and mediocre service.
“So, how do you know Alexander?” Asked Magnus, not even bothering to say a greeting.
Raphael wondered how many times he’d have to hear that question. He was officially in Magnus overdose and he needed a twenty four hour break. “Took you longer than I expected to ask me that for the thirtieth time these past four days.” He said cuttingly as he redid the maths of some questionable payment. “I told you to stop pestering me about it, Magnus.” He muttered as he cursed in Spanish Camille for apparently leaving everything in the hands of idiots. This man would be the fifth employee of theirs that he’d have to fire over their high pay and terrible service.
Magnus had the audacity to sound offended. He huffed and puffed at him, trying to tell the vampire without words how unimpressed and dramatic he was. “Don’t be a spoilsport. It’s just not often that I hear you speak Spanish with a Shadowhunter that you shouldn’t have had any prior connection with from my knowledge.”
“You’re way too worked up about this.” Pointed out Raphael as he sent a text to Lily about the task of hiring a new accountant and one to Simon about meeting somewhere to give him the reports for checking. He was considering more and more just asking Simon to take the job. He’d make sure to pay him well.
He couldn’t believe his friend didn’t understand why he was so offended. “That’s because all three of you have met him long before I did and none of you had the idea of warning me.” he said hotly, but without any anger. He was merely annoyed and the visits were more to step on Raphael’s toes than anything.
“Joder.” Snapped Raphael at the papers in front of him. He’d have to drain Camille’s accounts and torture an accountant for stealing from them. That was unless he was arrested for murdering the High Warlock. “Warn you about what, Magnus? A decent Shadowhunter that actually cares?” He asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. He just wanted the man gone so he’d have some peace.
“Duh.” Nodded Magnus and Raphael hit his head against his desk. “How did the three of you expect me to react to that Angel blessing walking the Earth as a reincarnation of passion, with a voice that’s the definition of sex and that’s kind?”
There was his chance. He would take advantage of it and Caterina and Ragnor would have to suffer the consequences. They’re the ones who wouldn’t try and take Magnus away from him for a while so he felt no remorse for what he planned to do. “I for one didn’t. I was even willing to bet on how smitten you would be after the first meeting. Caterina and Ragnor lost by the way. They underestimated the pull of forbidden romance and young, slightly awkward, but built like a model Shadowhunter.”
“Cat and Cabbage knew about him?”
“Did I say that? Oh no. Such a shame.” He pretended to actually be sorry and if Magnus was any less interested in Alec he’d have realised he had been played. He had to cover his mouth with his hand to hide his grin. He loved to cause chaos and Magnus had been getting on his nerves.
He had to have some words with his friends. How could they not tell him about Alexander? It was a crime to not speak of him. “I will be back. I have to reprimand two of my friends.” He announced and created a portal. He couldn’t believe this. He’d have to make sure to let Cat and Ragnor to never do something similar again.
He was certainly entertained. He should’ve told him days ago and he’d have avoided most of the headaches Magnus’ continuous presence caused. “Send them my condolences.” He smiled at his friend and waved as he finally left his office. He was about to return to his paperwork when his phone started ringing. “I just sent one whiny warlock to annoy his oldest friends after he pestered me for four days straight. I win at life.” He shared with Alec and was glad to hear him laugh. He had complained long enough about the warlock’s pestering and the traitor refused to tell Magnus what was going on, preferring to leave him to suffer.
He was surprised it took Raphael that long to send Magnus away. He gave it one day and a half maximum. “I’m sure the friends will get back at you one way or another.” He warned the vampire, remembering how Catarina and Ragnor were. “Guess you got my present and that’s why you’re in such a good mood?” He changed the subject to more amusing topics than the possible revenge that would await Raphael.
“Is stationary the only thing that you think makes me happy?” Sighed Raphael into the phone before he realised he actually did not want to know what Alec thought about his preferences and happiness. “On second thought, don't answer the question. Tell me how much sleep you got today. I want to hear a number higher than two, and I mean two hours.”
He only called him for a few minutes and he already judged all his life choices. It was a personal record. “Did you really have to specify that?”
“It’s you I’m talking to.” Raphael said on the other line like it explained everything and he was sad to admit that it did.
“Fair enough. Nine hours and with a nature's blessing, so I can be prepared for the solstice celebrations. I need to visit my mums more often.” He shared as he did some warming up exercises. His body felt suddenly rested, but really stiff.
He checked his calendar quickly and realised why his friend was in such a good mood. “Yes, tomorrow is the solstice. Excited?” He teased, but he honestly would’ve loved to attend the celebrations as well if he would’ve been allowed.
“It’s the same as I describe it every year, breathtakingly beautiful and filled with the raw feeling of change. Can’t wait to go through it all again.”
He chuckled, trying to imagine all the events of the next day with all the information Alec gave him over the years about Seelie traditions for the Solstice. “We’re doing poetry now, Alec? Finally got over your own fears and slept with someone that you have the chance of seeing again? Maybe you’re even considering a relationship?” He pressed, hoping to figure out what his friend’s intentions were with his father figure since the warlock already seemed besotted.
He wasn’t sure if he knew his friend too well, Raphael was losing his touch or he was getting better, because he recognised what he was trying to do without even having to think about it. “I’ll pretend you did not just ask me that.”
“So the answer is yes.” Exclaimed Raphael in shock. He did not expect it. He knew Alec would be intrigued and attracted to Magnus, but he didn’t expect him to actually be interested to date the man. As much as his friend was a rebel, it was one thing to fight for equality and another to want to date and possibly marry a male High Warlock. It was the biggest no-no in the Shadowhunters’ rule book along with respect for superior officers.
He was not going to discuss his potential relationship with his friend’s father with him no matter what he offered until he was one hundred percent sure it was a forever thing. “My sister will join the solstice celebrations.” He chose to change the subject and knew this would shock him far more than his love life situation.
He must’ve misheard. There was no way that was happening. Two Shadowhunters for the solstice. It was unprecedented. “How come? I thought it was only for family and she apparently wasn’t considered a part of your Seelie family?” He asked and was dying, figuratively, to find out what was going on. He apparently lost some information along the way.
He was enjoying it too much to hear his friend’s curiosity and light desperation for gossip. People might not believe it, but Raphael was the worst gossip possible. He knew the business of everyone and everything. “Maybe I couldn’t really make her a part of it without some lots of wiggling, but Meliorn could and he did.” It was a very vague answer, yet he knew he only needed one question from the vampire and he’d figure it out.
“She finally got around to telling you?” He was surprised by it. Isabelle had been dating Meliorn for some time and never even slipped a word of it to her brother. It was quite the sudden change. Could it be…
“Not only that. I found out I underestimated how important it was to address their relationship.” Alec sighed, the earlier conversation still being replayed in his mind.
It seemed to be more and more plausible. “Fascinating. Can I get a summary or will I have to wait?” He prodded and how Alec would answer the question would give him the answer.
He finally realised how it sounded and he was quick to specify and point Raphael in the right direction or Izzy would have his head. “All I can say is that it’s serious enough that she is allowed to join, think of our traditions and come up with your own theories.” If even with that he couldn’t guess then he’d go to him with five books about Seelie traditions for him to memorise.
“Soul flowers? No way!” Raphael gasped. It was an even bigger scandal waiting to implode when those two donors found out about their kids’ alliances and relationships. He would be there to protect them and see all of it. “Your silence is very loud right now!”
He was preparing to continue toying with Raphael when he heard one of the two people working in the Infirmary call for him. “On second thought, my new problem is apparently awake after way too much recovery time.”
“Garraway’s girl? Good luck with that one. I hear she’s a headache and a half.” Offered his apologies Raphael. He heard enough about her from sources close to her to know he’d slap the girl or make her cry the first time they met unless she suffered through some drastic character change.
“Just my luck then.” Grumbled Alec as he closed the call and took a deep breath before taking his coffee cup and walking towards the Infirmary to see what Clary had to say so he could finally send in his completed report and hear back about what to do.
_________
Age 8
Alec had been trying to fall asleep for the past three hours with no relief in sight. His sister was snuggled next to him, she wouldn’t let the two of them be apart since the night she found him and he couldn’t blame her.
He had been teaching her more about the factions whenever they were alone or they had lessons. He had tried to get her to learn the Seelie language, but she wasn’t really interested and it was much harder for her since apparently Seelies could make it easier for others to learn if they offered their blessing and his sister had no one’s.
As he was finally letting his eyes close, he heard a light chirp from the window and quickly rushed out of bed to prevent any noise from reaching the others. As he pulled the curtains away from the window he saw a mockingjay waiting for him with a leaf tied to its right leg and a feather to its left. He opened the window rapidly and took off the leaf so he could read it. They used a maple one and carved into it the contents of what would’ve been a letter.
Dear Prince,
We are fine, but truly worried about you. The two of us have not been able to rest until we figured out a way to approach you without risking to trigger the wards or putting you in danger. This would be how we’ll send you words from now on. You simply say your reply to Vicky (the mockingjay) and she’ll repeat them to us.
Are you alright? Your mother seems just as vile as we imagined and I apologise that you had to endure her wrath because of us. We should’ve been more careful. We have also sent some healing balm, we put an illusion on it and it looks like a feather. We hope it is or will be of use to you.
We miss you and we’re sorry to not be with you and hug you. Our hugs and love to you and well wishes to your sister for her birthday tomorrow or today, depending on when you get the letter.
With love,
Raine and Aura
He felt a few tears drop on the paper and he quickly wiped them off. They said they loved him five times now, counting the two words on the paper. It was five times more than his parents.
He saw the leaf start to rot in his hand and completely disappear, like it never even existed. He wanted to cry again. He wanted to have proof that he could be loved by someone other than his siblings. He wouldn’t get it physically for a while. He took the feather with a smile and turned to the mockingjay which was simply waiting for him to say something or give her the signal to leave.
“Dear Rain and Aura, you have nothing to apologise for. I took a risk because you were worth it to me. Don’t forget that. You’re letter made me feel much better and the balm will be used, don’t worry. Izzy is starting to get restless without me. Write to me again, please. I love you too. A.” He whispered to the mockingjay with a raspy voice and with his name signaled that it was okay for her to leave.
He watched from the window with red eyes, filled with tiredness and sadness as he was left alone with Izzy again. He also started to feel a small shard of hope against his better judgment. He could only ask the Angels not to get burned again.