alec_lightwood | Being kidnapped is not the best way to see the world (for his Magnus)

Alec woke to the sound of arguing and the feeling that his skull would split in two if he did anything more strenuous than breathing too deeply. Something that he doubted he could do judging by the way his chest ached with each inhalation, his body aching as if he'd been thoroughly beaten. Which, Alec realized was true. His memory was hazy but he remembered being attacked, outnumbered and separated from his siblings. He'd fought hard, but he'd been overwhelmed, taking a blow to the head that had caused the world to fade to a terrifying black.

But it seemed that someone had rescued him. Or more than one someone from the voices that argued nearby. Cracking open one eye, he immediately regretted the movement as the flat surface beneath him rocked, almost causing him to be ill. Then, he realized that the surface was moving in a way that meant that he had to be on a boat.

Getting control of his stomach, Alec opened both eyes this time to see that he was on a bed and near the foot three people argued. One had green skin. Another had blue. The other's complexion was a shade that mundanes would have considered normal, if darker than what was socially acceptable.

Their words washed over him but without true context, almost lulling him to sleep despite the harsh tones. Alec began to drift out of consciousness when someone mentioned throwing him off the boat. Since he assumed that they most likely weren't near land and even if they were, he was in no shape to swim to shore, that meant that one of them wanted to kill him. He began to sit up, biting his lip to silence sound that caught in his throat as his body protested the movement. "Killing me would be a bad idea."

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The reminder of how his kin could be almost caused him to flinch even if he tried not to be that way. Alec slipped occasionally, reverting to old habits but there was never a real bite to his words. It was more like he was reciting old lessons than believing the words. In his own way, he was just as 'dirty' as Downworlders, Maybe dirtier since he had feelings for both another man but his parabatai. "I try to thank the people who help me."

Though, he doubted he'd be able to find the words to express his gratitude to all of them. Maybe Magnus could help him find a way to show them that he was different than other Shadowhunters they had met.

Though he probably didn't look like one. Having heard the suggest of a bath seemed to make Alec realize how much he needed one. His clothes were probably beyond saving, covered in blood and ichor. The rest of him probably wasn't that bad. Catarina and Magnus would have needed to clean his wounds, but his skin was starting to itch at the thought of how bad it must have been. "I'd like a bath. And to get out of these clothes, if I can." Maybe someone would be close enough in size that he could borrow some things until his clothes could be washed.

Then, his discomfort was forgotten and he noticed Magnus wince. Reaching out to touch her side, he thought better of it, letting his hand hover a few inches away, guilt edging his thoughts. "Magnus, were you hurt when you rescued me?" All this time he'd been thinking of his own injuries. He'd never considered that she might have been hurt as well.

"I can tell." Her smile was gentle and sweet as she nodded her head. "It's strange... Will Herondale was the last Nephilim to thank me. And even then it was such an after thought. You... you're different." Her eyes glittered as she tipped her head. And she'd believed that Will had been the epitome of a hunter. Alec on the other hand, had an amazing heart. Sliding her fingers from his hair, she cupped his cheek for just a moment. "I have never seen a soul more beautiful than yours."

Her hand moved to lightly tuck longer dark strands behind his ears before she ducked down to kiss his forehead. "I'll get the bat ready for you. It will help you feel even better, I promise." She laughed a little as she slid her eyes to his clothes and slowly arched a brow. "Well.. I'm sure we can at least try to salvage them. While you're bathing, I'll send someone to find some in your size."

She nearly started to get out of the bed when Alec's expression changed. Her brow furrowed in confusion as his hand moved to her side. Tipping her head down to look at the hand hovering there, she almost asked what was wrong till that question was asked. "Well, nothing that hasn't healed..." Stopping there, it suddenly occurred to her why he was worried and she couldn't help the grin that pulled at her lips.

"No... this... is a burden women bear when they fall asleep in corsets. I'm lined with bruises from the boning." Sliding her hands down her own sides she made a face. "It's okay." Catching his hand, she squeezed it gently and rose from the bed. As she moved to the wardrobe, she started to unlace the corseted dress quickly with a small sound of relief. Pulling the screen between them, she stripped the clothes off and sighed at the bruises dotting her skin. Later... she'd worry about it later.

Keeping the soft leather pants on, she pulled on a new softer shirt that didn't cover the mid drift before coming out again. Grabbing the belt with her sword, she was in the process of buckling it on as she opened her door. Ignoring the eyes that never raised from her stomach, she instructed them to find some clothes for him before coming back in. Heading straight for the tub, she smiled at her own ingenious for 'plumbing' before filling it up. "It'll only take a minute for me to warm it... Will you need help getting over here?" She lifted her head from her spot kneeling at the tub's side to smile at him through messy bangs. "I could wash your back and hair if you like?"

It was strange to hear someone speak of his ancestor in such a familiar way. Especially when that someone looked Alec's age. He knew that warlocks stopped aging when they became adults, but it still was almost disorientating to think of Magnus knowing someone who had lived so long ago that Alec had a connection to. Or to have her compare him to one of the greatest Shadowhunters and think of him as special.

"Magnus, I..." He began to protest her words, and then realized he couldn't. So few people had ever praised him for something other than his skill with a bow that he couldn't ruin that kindness with denials. "Thank you." Her compliment and the kiss caused him to flush, warmth settling in his chest that was harder to dismiss than his blush. "It might be best to get rid of my clothes. There's some things on them that might be dangerous."

Blood wouldn't be a problem except for the stains, but ichor and possible poisons might harm whoever washed his clothes. Since he couldn't really remember what types of demons had attacked him, he couldn't be sure of what might happen. "I don't really want to put them on again unless I have to."

His worry eased slightly when she mentioned the bruises, relieved that she hadn't been seriously hurt during the fight. It was something Isabelle complained about regularly but her sense of fashion demanded the garments even if they did pain her. Hers were both gear and undergarment, designed for ease of movement and protection, but she said that they still pained her if she wore them too long. An apologetic look crossed his features, as he squeezed her hand in return. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have taken your bed."

Later he'd ask for different quarters so that she could sleep without worrying about sharing her bed with a hurt Shadowhunter.

As she moved toward the tub, he levered himself out of bed, gripping the frame for a moment to be sure of his balance. The floor tipped ominously, then he realized it was the motion from the boat, not a side effect of one of his injuries. "I think I'm okay." Or he thought he was until she asked to help him with his bath. Almost stumbling to a stop, Alec stared at her, the blush returning to burn brightly across his skin. "You wish to wish to help me bathe?"

"You're welcome." It took effort not to touch the young teen's hair. Biting her lower lip, she stopped at the comment about the clothes and laughed. "You're right... that is likely true. I suppose that means we'll have to find you clothes of your own. I hope you like shopping, Alec Lightwood. Because when you put it that way, I really don't want you to put them back on."

Pausing, she glanced at him for that apology a little confused. Tipping her head a little, she pushed the mussed hair out of her face. "Alec... It wasn't because you were in my bed that my corset bruised me." Smiling softly, she squeezed his hand in return. "You need not apologize. Please don't... not over something like that."

Moving about her tasks, she filled the tub to a suitable depth before touching the surface of the water. Muttering a soft spell, blue-white light rippled all over the surface before steam rose from the once cool liquid. Drawing her fingertips over the warmed surface, she lifted golden eyes to Alec. Lowering to her knees, she pulled a tie from her belt she kept there and pulled her hair back. Tying it back, she pat the tub. "Would you like me to add sandalwood oil to it?"

A small smile covered her amusement as she wanted him nearly stumble at the question about the bath. "Alec, you've been injured. I know you feel better... but it doesn't mean you're completely healed. It simply means you feel better than you did. I won't if you don't want me to, but I promise it will help with the sore muscles." Testing the water temperature one more time, she pushed to her feet and backed away from the tub.

Carefully turning, she drug the screen over to the tub so he could have some privacy as he pulled his clothes off. "Just throw them over and I'll put them out to be burned. Sound good?"

"Uh..." For a moment, he remembered what Magnus had said about her hats and his own shopping trips with Isabelle and wondered what exactly it'd be like to have Magnus drag him along while trying to get him a new wardrobe. "I don't go shopping that often unless my sister insists." And that he could avoid most of the time until she got sick of his black shirts looking brown or their parents were forcing him to attend one of their parties in hopes of finding a 'nice girl' for him to marry.

Shaking off his worries about his clothing suddenly having feathers, he blinked at her a moment before realizing what she'd meant about the corset. "No, but if you hadn't allowed me to share your quarters, you might have slept more comfortably." Or she might have taken off the corset if he hadn't been nearby.

There had to be somewhere else he could sleep so that she could have her bed back.

Not that she seemed to be worried about propriety. Staring at her as he regained his balance, he answered, 'Okay' to her question before realizing what she'd asked. She wanted to help him bathe. Most women he knew would have been scandalized by the idea of being alone with a man, let alone see one naked. Even Shadowhunters who saw each other in various states of injury would have been hesitant to make such an offer.

A brilliant blush crept across his face as he stuttered for an answer. "It wouldn't be proper for you to help me." Even as he spoke, he felt slightly guilty, knowing that Magnus only meant to help but he couldn't help thinking of her reputation. "I wouldn't want you to... I wouldn't want anyone thinking the wrong thing about you." Even if they might already since they'd shared the same bed.

Still struggling to control his blush, Alec moved to the screen, beginning to slowly pull off his bloodstained clothes, hissing softly when the fabric stuck to his healing skin. "I'm sure I can manage on my own." Even if he seemed to be fighting a losing battle with his shirt.

A sly smile pulled at her lips as she peered up at him. An elegant brow arched as she asked her question lightly. "Oh? So... that means you've given me permission to buy your clothes in your stead with the utmost trust that I will pick things you like?" The voice may have sounded innocent, but the eyes danced with mischief and she knew she would have way too much fun with this if he really let her go it alone.

At first, she'd not reacted to his question. She planned to just wave him off as being paranoid when something caught in her mind and drew her attention. Stopping what she was doing, she furrowed her brow thoughtfully then smiled beautifully as she looked over at him again. "Alec... I've not slept that well in countless years. Comfort really wasn't an issue when I slept so deeply. But I assure you, it's not the first time I've fallen asleep in a corset, it won't be the last. You'll just simply have to remind me if I forget again."

When he moved to change, she got herself out of the way and perched on the edge of her desk listening to his scurrying behind the screen. Tipping her head as he sounded so concerned, she shook her head to herself. "Honestly... I'm more concerned about your health than something as silly as my reputation. I'm certain my crew has already cooked up some sordid past we had together. When it comes to myself, the stories are usually more colorful than the reality. Only Ragnor and Catarina can tell the real stories." Pausing, she winced at the sounds of him attempting to undress... it didn't sound very successful.

"You have to realize I likely started a lot of those wild stories when I slapped Ragnor for not being careful with you... And pretty much carrying you myself into this room. You are safest here. I will hear nothing of you going somewhere else. I can guarantee your safety and health here... Please don't fight me on that." She fidgeted a moment before she couldn't take it anymore. Moving off the desk, she went around the screen and nimbly climbed onto the edge of the tub.

"You're too tall. Here..." With ease and no hesitation, she helped him get the shirt off while balancing naturally on the lip of the tub. Frowning at some of the wounds, she hopped back down and turned. "I think the rest won't be that hard." And if she stayed there, she'd stare more than just at the wounds on his body. Which was why she stepped around the screen and took a steadying deep breath.

What was that all about?

For a few moments, all Alec could do was stare. He couldn't think of an answer to that question that wouldn't offend but when he remembered the stories of her hats, he almost dreaded what he might be forced to wear. Even Izzy's tastes weren't as flamboyant as Magnus'.

But he couldn't insult Magnus. Not over something so minor. "I usually wear black. Even when I'm not patrolling." Hopefully black would keep Magnus from going too crazy with her choices.

Then, he forgot about clothes as he realized what Magnus asking for him to remind her meant. She planned on having him share her quarters despite what it might mean to her reputation. Alec began to protest, and then paused when Magnus said how well she'd slept and how she worried over him. He wasn't sure why his presence would help her rest, but the rest of her comment made him wonder. He'd probably be functional soon if still needing to rest so his health wasn't an issue, but his safety... That made him wonder if some of the crew might resent having a nephilim near and want to follow through on Ragnor's suggestion.

Shaking off those thoughts temporarily, he sighed over how Magnus didn't seem to care what people thought. It was something he'd dealt with for years, trying to seem like a 'normal' Shadowhunter so that no one would punish him or his family for his tastes. To be so open and uncaring of what others might believe was something Alec almost envied. Although, he might be able to be less cautious if the person that had been the focus of those inappropriate thoughts hadn't been his parabatai.

"Reputations aren't silly, Magnus. I don't want people to think of you as less because of me." The words were spoken in the same weary and resigned tone he'd used when talking to Isabelle about the subject when his sister had finally confronted him.

Pausing from his attempt to take off his shirt, he couldn't help wishing he could be as unaffected by those things as Magnus seemed to be. Then, he stared in the general direction of Magnus' voice, trying to imagine Magnus not only slapping Ragnor but carrying him to her quarters. "I - uh - won't fight you. But I..."

His voice trailed off as Magnus moved around the screen and was standing before him. "I'm not too tall." The protest was silly and he knew it but it kept him from thinking of how inappropriate this was despite needing her help. Watching her balance on the tub, he wanted to reach out to steady her but there was no need.

His gaze focused on her sides, still worried about her earlier discomfort, before he realized he was staring. He started to look away, then he couldn't help lingering slightly higher, flushing when he realized he was staring inappropriately at an area that had never caught his attention before.

His parents had paraded dozens of young women - and a few who weren't so young - in front of him, hoping he'd find a wife. Alec had been polite to each one, but he'd barely given any of them a glance. Jace had dragged him into every sordid place in New York just so he could shock him and he'd never been interested in the women there.

But now he was staring at the lady who had rescued him. Jerking his gaze up to her face, he almost apologized but the words deserted him. "I... should be able to manage the rest on my own."

"I figured you for a man in black..." She smiled softly at the though and swept her bangs back before hooking the silken hair behind her ear. "I will keep that in mind. But you know... if you go with me, you'll end up happier. And... your company would make me happy. You can help me find a hat to make that little vein on Ragnor's head pulse."

She'd laughed in her head a little as she imagined it. That is... until she realized that Alec was far too quiet. Tipping her head, she listened to him and rolled over what she might have said to make him so quiet. Until he spoke and her heart stuttered in her chest. Breathing in slowly, she considered her reputation over the years. "Alec... I'm so old... my reputation was destroyed long before I had a chance to save it."

Part of her wanted to reach out and touch him, but she remained still. "I want you to know... thank you. No one's given me so much consideration before." Which made up a majority of why she wanted to help him so badly. She knew this resignation wasn't for her... something hurt him. Something hurt him deeply and the wound still bled under the surface. "I promise to sleep on the couch, angel... I will not hurt your reputation either."

When she'd moved to help him, she'd been careful not to stare too long. But it occurred to her that he stared first. When she hopped to the floor, she looked up at him meeting his gaze when he jerked up to look at her. He looked like he'd been caught with his hand in the cookie jar against his parents wishes. Thinking it over, she marveled at the fact that he seemed almost like a man that had never looked at a girl before.

"Do you want me to wash your back and hair, Alec? I promise to do no more." Maybe her golden eyes slid down over his chest along the lines of muscles on porcelain skin. She had to close her eyes to stop the look of pure awe she turned upon him. "I'll be right over there..."

She smiled at him gently and indicated to the rest of the room behind the screen. Why had it been so hard to move away and look somewhere else? Magna felt relieved just knowing that he couldn't see her sink down to her knees as she caught her breath. Carefully controlling each breath, she focused on the bruises and lightly touched the worst ones on her sides to heal them.

But even that concentration wasn't enough to stop the train of thought hellbent on imagining him without clothes. Mentally berating herself, she furrowed her brow and shook her head. Alec wouldn't be interesting in a warlock. But she could take care of him... and she would do so happily.

"You would want me to go with you?" His siblings always tried to get him involved in their misadventures, but Alec couldn't remember the last time when someone he wasn't related to had wanted to spend time with him. Even the girls who had thrown themselves at him in an attempt at getting to the Lightwood fortune had never seemed interested in him. The idea that Magnus might want to spend time with him was something he could barely comprehend.

"You would want my company?" Pausing, he realized how that might sound. "And for me to help you pick out a hat? That might get Ragnor to throw me overboard."

The warlock still might if Alec spent too much time with Magnus. Ragnor seemed protective, or maybe something more than that was going on. The thought caused nervousness to prickle along his skin... a feeling that he dismissed as self preservation since he doubted Ragnor would feel little guilt for 'helping' Alec off the ship.

Her comments about her reputation didn't help reassure him when he was certain that Ragnor would prefer if he was feeding whatever sea life was nearby. Instead, they made his chest ache for her as he wondered how others might have treated her over the centuries. "That doesn't stop me from wanting to protect your reputation, Magnus. I don't want to mistreat a lady."

Flushing slightly at her thanks, he couldn't help protesting her plans for how they would share her quarters. "You're welcome but I couldn't force you out of your bed. I can sleep on the couch. I'm healed enough that it won't hurt me." At least not enough that it would cause Alec more than slight discomfort that he could ignore.

And, if he was going to stare at her in such a way, he probably shouldn't be using her bed. The fact that he had stared at her and was having difficult time focusing on her face was something that had never happened to him before. It wasn't because Magnus was beautiful... she was but if she also hadn't shown him so much kindness, he never would have done such a thing. Beautiful inside and out and that drew his attention in ways he hadn't expected.

The blush brightened as he met her catlike eyes. "I - uh - " Part of him wanted to say yes, but he knew it was improper for her to watch him bathe. "How about we see if I need help." He'd try to make sure that he didn't need help, afraid of how he'd embarrass himself if she did.

"Thank you." The last two words tumbled out, making him blush brighter as she disappeared behind the screen. Hastily, he finished removing his clothes, trying to hide any sign that he hurt more than he wanted her to know. Bracing himself on the lip of the tub, he carefully slipped into water, letting out a quiet whimper when the warm water found aching muscles and mostly healed cuts. "How long was I unconcious?"

"I would love your company. Truly. It's no fun to make your surrogate big brother miserable by yourself all the time. Sometimes I need knew ideas to make him miserable. I mean seriously... he's like an angry cabbage that begs to be prodded." Pausing, she smiled to herself at his concern of being thrown over. "Regardless of what he may wish to do... He'd have to throw me over first... And We could figure out how to tame a shark and ride it to shore. I always wondered if I could charm one." It was a sign of someone too old with too much time on her hands that she'd even come up with such a thing. Granted, Magna had a knack for the strange and grandiose.

In the end, she really did like to find the good things in the moment to focus on. Make something exciting that really hadn't been a good scenario to begin with. Like Ragnor's unending pessimism over Alec. And well... life. "And either way, I'd save you, so you'll be fine. I'm actually a good swimmer, I just don't care for water. But if you're afraid of something, you should learn to conquer it, right?"

The admission was strange likely, but for a girl nearly drowned by the hands of her stepfather it made sense. She learned even if it terrified her at first. That and being far more catlike than planned didn't help. Yet, a small smile pulled at her lips as Alec said he didn't want to mistreat a lady. "I don't think you would ever mistreat me, Alec. If you did, I would never believe it intentional. Even that, I doubt will ever happen..."

Sighing dramatically she laughed. "Nonsense. A good host lets the guest have the bed. I'll not hear any argument. I have a wonderful couch. I'm perfectly fine sleeping on it. Final." Giving him her best 'no argument' look, she fought off the desire to smile at his almost fidgeting when their eyes met. Lovely as he was, his eyes and the emotion he tried so hard to guard behind it really did far more to her.

Which was why she spaced out when she finally pried out of his sight. After healing a bruise, she'd not even realized that one hand pressed to her chest as though to keep her heart in its place. In fact, it took a moment to realize he'd asked a question. "A little over a day." Of no sleeping or bathing as she sat by his bedside waiting. She'd noted how lovely he was then and what a shame it would be to lose someone that stood out so much...

Now she was even happier he survived. "It felt longer than that."

Laughing softly, he couldn't help thinking of Izzy and some of the stunts she'd pulled over the years. Sometimes they'd been aimed at him or Jace, sometimes both of them since it 'wasn't fair' that boys got to do fun things. And the next time he saw Ragnor he probably was going to think of him as a cabbage and cause the warlock to dislike him even more. "I'd like your company too."

But not while trying to swim to shore. "Magnus... There won't be any shark taming. Or riding." Could someone ride one even if it was charmed? It was something he didn't want to consider even if Magnus was most likely joking.

At first, he thought the dislike of water might be because of Magnus being so catlike, but the admission that she was afraid of it made him reconsider. Alec had the feeling that there was something more there than just a common fear, but knew that he shouldn't ask. "Since you dislike water, I'll do everything possible to make sure that you don't have to go swimming with me. I'll try to stay in Ragnor's good graces."

If Ragnor had any good graces. His dislike for Alec wouldn't be easy to deal with but he could stay out of the way until he could return to his siblings.

Returning that smile, he couldn't help being pleased that he'd made such an impression on her. Most people thought so little of him, that it was a gift to have someone who wasn't one of his siblings think of him in such ways. "I'll do everything I can to make sure I never hurt you." For a moment, he wondered about the phrase, why he'd said it that way. It felt right but also like there was more meaning behind it, but he wasn't sure what.

Shaking his head, he knew he'd have to give up on the subject of the bed... for now at least. There was always the floor even if that was probably childish. But it wouldn't seem right to sleep in her bed while she was on the couch. She'd already done so much for him. He couldn't take her bed too.

Even knowing that he should hurry, Alec couldn't stop himself from simply relaxing against the back of the tub, enjoying the warm water eased the lingering traces of his injuries. Not realizing he'd closed his eyes, he blinked out of the daze he'd started to fall into, surprised by Magnus' answer. "I thought it was longer. With how badly I had to be hurt..."

He hadn't thought he'd ever wake up. Looking down at himself, he noted the red lines that would eventually become more scars, thinking of what Catarina had said about the demon poison. When he finally spoke again, his voice was quiet. "I didn't think I was going to make it."

Stopping at that, a brilliant smile curled her lips. "I'm so happy that you will join me. It's rather dull to shop alone." She felt the dance of butterflies in her chest taking to flight just thinking about it. He would spend time with her. Why would something so simple make her so happy? What was it about Alec Lightwood?

"No fun." Pouting prettily, she huffed softly. "I thought it would be the feat to exceed all feats." Even still she laughed just a little. "Very well, for you, my angel, I will refrain from my desire to tame a shark and ride it."

But when he so earnestly declared he'd keep her out of the water, her heart raced a little. Breathing in sharply, she spoke before she thought about it. "I want to swim with you. Just promise to keep me from drowning." Pressing her hands to her chest, she tried not to think of hands on her throat holding her down. Closing her eyes, each breath shook a little with the effort.

When she finally spoke, her words came soft and gently. "I take you at your word. I know you will do as you say to the best of your abilities." She knew better than to believe entirely, but he made the promise the right way. He said he'd do his best.

But for now, she needed to think about finishing the healing she could do and strip the sheets. Only bothering with the ones that hurt the most, she finally rose to her feet and crossed the room to the bed. Pulling the linens off, she tossed them in the pile with his clothes and toed it all toward the door. Opening it, she toed them out. "Burn it all."

The guard nodded and started to pick it up when his eyes lingered on her stomach longer than necessary. "Eyes up here or I'll let you be the target next time I'm drunk and want to practice my aim." His eyes came up instantly at that and she smirked. "Get on then." He quickly scooped the soiled linens up and ran before she came back in. Likely, Alec could here, but she didn't mind. Instead she dug new linens out (the deep blue silk ones of course) and went to work making the bed.

Her hands only stilled when he mentioned not making it. Her mind reeled as she remembered all that happened since he passed out. "Maybe it was two. I... I really didn't pay attention to the specifics." After pulling that much poison, she'd been exhausted. "I wasn't about to give up on you... I suppose you liked someone persistently telling you not to give up." She'd done so each time she'd been alone with him. Pleading for him to fight... to wake up. "And you made it. You're here and well..."

Alec hated shopping. Clothes were something that were useful, not something he thought of for any other purpose than the most basic. Isabelle, and to some extent, Jace, were the ones that cared about fashion. But with Magnus, he didn't think he'd mind being dragged to whichever shops caught her attention. "Any time you want me to come with you."

He was still trying to recover from the idea of Magnus wanting to play with sharks when she began to pout. Blinking at her a moment, he shook his head over her protests. "You can find something less dangerous to attempt for your 'feat to exceed all feats.'"

It was strange that she was interested in sharks when water seemed to scare he for some reason. Maybe it was like his fear of spiders and umbrellas. There was no real reason for the fear, but he could never completely ignore it.

But it seemed deeper than that. Like something truly had scared her. Which made it strange that she'd want him to take her swimming, but if that was what Magnus wanted, he'd do everything possible to give her that. Meeting her eyes, he gently brushed his fingers along her cheek, wanting to reassure her in some small way. Promises had power, especially when given by a Shadowhunter, but Alec knew that he would do whatever was necessary to protect her. "You won't drown, Magnus. Not if I can stop it."

Realizing that he was probably being too familiar, he lowered his hand, wishing that he didn't have to keep distance between them. Magnus was one of the few people he felt content being near. At least until he was naked in the bathtub, jarred out of his thoughts by the sound of her voice, flushing as he thought of how close she was.

He would have turned around to try to see where she was, but he doubted his back would have agreed with the motion. Instead he slipped deeper into the water so that the heat could reach more of his abused muscles. "Thank you, Magnus. I know healing me had to be tiring."

As he spoke, Alec remembered pain and fear and the poison had burned through him... and golden eyes that had driven away his nightmares. "You spoke to me. While I was delirious. I don't remember words but I remember your voice." Tipping his head back, he tried to catch a glimpse of her. "I'm here because you saved me."

"Really?" It likely sounded like a little child suddenly excited. The prospect of Alec being willing to go with her sent a wave of glee through her. "I'd really like that. Truly." Maybe she shouldn't show so much childish happiness, but the idea of him agreeing was just too hard to ignore.

Laughing a little at his declaration of finding a safer goal, she nodded just a little and sent him a smile. "Very well." It was hard to argue with someone that looked so sincere due to concern for her life. It made her happy, strangely enough.

Just like that barest touch to her cheek shook her all the way to the core. Opening her eyes, she looked up at him with a sort of adoration as the memory seemed to fade instantly to focus on him. Memories always proved tricky for her. Especially the bad ones. But they'd never calmed and faded so easily before. Just a simple touch and a promise and if felt like someone pulled her out of the water of her past instead of pushed her under. "Thank you..."

The words were barely a whisper and more then enough reason to flee after he seemed to pull away and think better of his action. She wouldn't linger on that. No. It felt better to just focus on her tasks of tidying up the room. A little. She didn't really like cleaning. Her desk proved that.

Finishing up the bed, she paused at his own thank you and looked back at him. By chance, she caught his eyes only a moment. If she followed propriety she would have looked away, but instead, she smiled at him softly. "And I'd do it again. Feeling tired is a small price to pay." Even if he only barely caught his eyes around the screen, she still held them with her own.

"I'm glad you heard me and came back." Winking at him, she turned back to the room and moved over to the decanter and tumblers to pour them some water. Poking her head out again, she requested breakfast to be brought in before scooting to the screen and offering the tumbler to him without looking. "You need to drink more water... here..."

"Yes." It was impossible not to be caught up in her excitement... or be caught up in his own. She wanted him to stay, for a time at least, and even with his worries for Izzy and Jace, he wanted to spend time with Magnus. He wanted to make her smile at him like that again and again because she was happy over something he'd done. "I'd like it too."

And maybe she'd look at him like that again even if it twisted him up inside, confusion and something else catching in his chest. He wanted to see her eyes turn bright gold instead of going dark with whatever caused her fears. For a moment, Alec wished he was as forward as his siblings instead of falling back on propriety, though he wasn't sure what he would have done if he was that brave. "You're welcome."

The thought confused him just as much as whatever he'd felt when he'd seen the adoration in Magnus' eyes. He never thought things like that before. His siblings were different than him. Alec had accepted that years ago. He was the quiet one that kept to the shadows while Jace and Isabelle burned brightly. He'd never envied them or wanted to be like them, but now...

Meeting Magnus' gaze, he couldn't help thinking of what Magnus had said about him being bright in his own way, wishing that it was true. "I'm glad that was the only price. I know that overusing magic can be dangerous." It wouldn't have surprised him if Magnus had worn herself down to such a state if he'd been poisoned. Most people didn't survive those kinds of wounds.

"You did bring me back." The thought was comforting in a way. So many times he'd been injured and there had been no one at his bedside. Even if Jace and Isabelle wanted to stay with him, there were times when duty was more important than the comfort of one Shadowhunter. And Max... his little brother shouldn't see Alec while he was seriously hurt. "Most of the time, there's no one there when I wake up in the infirmary."

As Magnus moved toward the screen, Alec quickly looked around, trying to find something to cover himself with, and then realized that if even if something was close, he'd probably hurt himself trying to reach it. He went still, mentally wincing as he waited for Magnus to move around the screen, surprised when all she did was offer him the glass.

Taking the tumbler carefully, he didn't realize how thirsty he took a drink and gulped most of it down without pausing for breath. "How long do you think it'll be before I'm better?"

Magna never really felt so tangled up in feelings as she did now. Confusing and winding her up in knots inside, but the feeling felt warm and expecting. But what was she expecting? Holding his gaze a moment, she smiled as she idly pulled a pillow up into her arms and hugged it. The only word that came to mind when she looked him in the eye was 'beautiful'.

"I have a talent so to speak. I learn as much as I can whenever I can. The more useful you are, the less likely people would find you expendable so to speak. You kind of have to when you're as old as me." That and her 'blood' gave her a certain disposition to learn a lot of things. "I'm actually not talented at healing. I have tried... but for some reason... I can deal in demon poisons better than even the best healers." It was a lot more information than she gave most people, but Alec gave off this feeling like she could talk and he would listen without judging.

"I was tired. I lost consciousness at one point... Which is why they got the jump on me by storming in the room while you were sleeping and I nodded off. Ragnor has a subtle flair for the dramatic when he wants to throw a fit. Rare as those moments are. He did burn down an entire ship because he was angry at me once. He's gotten better though." Grinning at him, she knew that Ragnor would tone it down when he realized Alec wouldn't hurt them. He'd worry of course, but not over Alec's threat. She'd talk him down later.

But she suddenly tightened her hold on the pillow and her eyes saddened at the idea of him being alone when he woke up times before. Brow furrowing, she took a step closer before remembering herself and stopping. "I rarely left your side. I may be a stranger to you... but you needed someone there. I would not have left you." Nodding firmly, her nails dug into the pillow before she turned to drop it on the bed with the other dark blue silk covered pillows.

That strange pain in her chest at the thought didn't leave even as he took the glass from her. Pressing her forehead to the opposite side of the screen, she closed her eyes. Things like that weren't fair. It made her think of all the loneliness of her past and having to patch herself up when she got hurt. Ragnor and Catarina were the first to help her.

"I'm not sure... Catarina is the real healer. She'd have a better idea. But considering... considering your recovery I'd say no more than a week to be good as new." With drastic improvements in between. But she really didn't want to think about him up and leaving when he was better. Not really.

Alec knew he should look away even if she really couldn't see anything. The whole situation was improper and even if Magnus didn't care about his reputation, he didn't want others to think poorly of her. But he couldn't break their gaze, staring into beautiful golden eyes instead of trying to scrape together some sense of normalcy.

Then sadness dimmed his thoughts as Magnus described being 'expendable.' It was something he'd lived with for year. He knew how much that hurt. "You wouldn't be expendable, Magnus, even if you didn't know how to heal demon poisons. Laughing softly at himself, he finally looked away, reaching for the soap so he could start to scrub away the remnants of the fight. "But I"m glad that you do have that skill."

The worst of it had been cleaned away, probably so that Catarina could see how badly he was injured and to dress the wounds but he still felt itchy like none of it had been washed away. Pausing when she mentioned Ragnor's fit, he turned to stare in Magnus' direction. "He burned down a ship?" If he could get that angry over things, maybe Alec shouldn't linger longer than it took to heal enough to stay upright on his own. "If my being here is going to be a problem, you can leave me at the next port. The Clave will find a way to get me home."

The Clave might want to ignore him, but his family was too important for the Clave to abandon him completely when he technically hadn't done anything wrong. At least nothing that could be proven. "I don't want to cause trouble."

Even if the idea of leaving caused the energy to drain out of him so that he felt hollow inside. He liked Magnus. He had the feeling he'd like Catarina as well once he got to know her. But he couldn't cause problems among her crew.

Especially when Magnus had helped him and shown him a kindness that few others had. "I think you are the reason I came back." That he remembered, someone calling him back when he was delirious and certain he'd die. "I wanted to but..." He'd fought, but it'd been Magnus' voice and those catlike eyes that had kept him from becoming lost in the haze of pain and fear. "I was lost until you brought me back."

He still felt lost... at least when he considered going back home. Once he stepped off the ship, he'd never see Magnus again. The thought hurt worse than any of his injuries that still twinged when he moved wrong, a constant ache that confused him just as much as it pained him. Why would he want to stay when two of the three people he'd met on the ship wanted him gone and Magnus...

She was special even if she didn't realize it. Even if he wanted to see his siblings, he couldn't help wishing that he'd see her again after he returned to the Institute but he doubted that would ever happen. Why would Magnus want to see him again... and how would his parents react to a warlock showing up at their doorstep?

Sighing quietly, he tried not to think of the Institute or his family, focusing on the now instead of the way his heart sank at the idea of returning so quickly. "I'll try not to be in the way until I have to leave."

"I'm also glad. Because it saved you." Before it had been money in the pocket. Now it kept a beautiful life still burning and the chance to meet the handsome hunter that fought so valiantly. He fought with his heart. That was a nobility few had. And with those lovely eyes caught with hers, she smiled at him in a way that meant warmth and gentleness. If she couldn't say it aloud, her gaze said it plainly, 'you are wanted'.

"Now... you see... we took this job... it was to protect a cargo. And well.. that cargo I didn't tell him what it was. Till we were literally neck deep in it. Guano really doesn't smell good, by the way. It was in my hair for at least a month after." She winced at the memory of it all and then she laughed. "That was in Peru. Anyway, while we sat in it... he asked what it was in that terrifyingly calm voice. You have to understand... he wasn't aiming for the boat. He was aiming for me. I could survive a few burns. Sadly a wooden boat can't. He wouldn't speak to me for a few years after that. Really... he has no sense of adventure. A little guano never killed anyone."

Taking a deep breath, her heart picked up pace as she tried not to let his fear of not being wanted to linger. "He'll be fine with you when he realizes you won't hurt me. And honestly, the Clave thinks you're dead. It gives you time to rest. They won't come for us that quickly." She furrowed her brow and fidgeted with the leather belt about her waist. "I got angry... when I saw how bad you were... I burned it all down. Every demon that couldn't get away was incinerated. There is nothing left there." Her skin flushed at the thought. "It's rare that I lose it like that. I haven't had that happen since I was little... the Silent Brothers..."

Stopping, she shook her head and pushed her hair back again out of her eyes. "Alec, I'm far more trouble to Ragnor Fell than you will ever be. He's just paranoid. And he can't say ill of the Clave when he's served the Fairchild family for centuries."

Breathing in slowly at the idea of being the one to save him, she smiled a little more. "I'd do it again. Now I have a name to call for, you know. You're doomed because I never give up. Just ask Catarina. Not on someone that matters... some people you just know." Know that they are special and deserve to be in your life. And she wanted him in her life more than she could even dare explain.

"My dear angel... you won't be in my way. But I know for a fact that I will be in yours. I am a very exuberant and energetic person and will likely drag you around to show you everything. Every Wednesday night we get together on the deck at night to eat together and some bring out instruments... and really, Alec, you'll enjoy it. I hope you will, at least." It was likely silly to feel excited to tell him all that. She felt like the talking just came out as she poured everything out to him.

A long pause followed as she added softer while bowing her head against the screen. "I don't want you to hurry away. Stay. Stay here till you want to leave? Not just because we can stamp you healthy and ship you out... Stay here with...." The unspoken 'me' lingered in the air before she swallowed and tried again. "Stay here and let me show you things you never would have seen before."

For a moment, he could barely breathe, surprised by the emotions he saw reflected in her eyes. Alec knew that his family cared for him, but that was different than being wanted. He wasn't the best Shadowhunter... he wasn't the bravest or the smartest and Alec knew that would always be true. He was the protector, a role that he never begrudged, but it was a role lonely compared to his brilliant siblings.

Why would Magnus care so much about a stranger, a Shadowhunter, who she had just met? Healers showed concern for their patients but that sort of feeling was unusual. Most Downworlders hated his kind and mundanes thought nephilim were odd. Magnus showing that much concern was something unexpected that warmed his soul in ways he hadn't thought possible.

And so did her story about Peru. He knew that he shouldn't laugh over situation that had put them both at risk but he couldn't help imagining how ridiculous they both must have looked caught in a cargo of guano. Especially Ragnor who seemed to be constantly annoyed at the world. And Magnus... "Were you wearing one of those hats that annoy him?" Maybe it had been the peacock one that she'd told him about...

His humor faded as Magnus explained why Ragnor seemed to dislike him. It was something Alec understood completely. He would be just as protective of the people he cared about, especially when "Magnus, I promise that I will do everything I can to make sure no harm comes to you. If it'd make him feel better, I'll give him my oath that that's true." It would have to be carefully worded, but his intentions would be clear.

As he made that promise, the full impact of her words hit him, realizing what had happened during the battle. The fact that she'd killed demons didn't bother him. He might not have killed one until that fight, but he had no qualms about sending them back to whatever realm they came from. She'd burned them because she was worried about him. The thought was both frightening and touching.... having that much power to unleash on the world...

But she'd done it to protect him, not for malicious reasons. Most probably would think of it as something terrible, but he could only be grateful for being saved. "Thank you, Magnus. I would be dead if you hadn't destroyed them. And your crew might have been hurt too if you hadn't done it."

His voice softened as she warned him that she was dangerous, not believing that could possibly be true. "You're not trouble. You're a hero. If I'm a hero, then you must be one too." For a moment, he considered her words about people being special... That he mattered. "I don't want you to give up. You're someone who matters to me as well."

Someone that he didn't have to leave in a week if that wasn't what he wished. It pained him that his family thought he was dead, but he couldn't send them a fire message and risk the Clave finding out and assuming the worst about Magnus and her crew. Eventually, he'd find a way to get word to them. For now, he'd rest and enjoy the time he had with Magnus.

"I'm used to being dragged around by energetic people. I think I'll like it more with you than with my siblings." Crowds were something he usually avoided, but the idea of being with the Magnus and the crew, sharing a meal and music appealed to him. "I'd like to be part of that... if they don't mind having a Shadowhunter around."

Hopefully they wouldn't mind since he wanted to stay. For awhile at least. With Magnus. He wanted to get to know her and learn all the ways that she mattered to him. "I want to stay. Even if you don't show me things I haven't seen before, I want to stay."

"Oh god... it was beautiful! It had parrot feathers and feathers from the bird of paradise... The greens and yellows, blues and reds! It was absolutely fabulous and gaudy!" Magnus broke out into giggling as she remembered that hat and her first almost pirate inspired outfit. She sent him a quick grin before scurrying over to her closet. "He hated it. In fact... he let it up in flames as soon as he scored a hit on me. I was so upset. But the, the guano ruined it."

Digging out the hat box she wanted, she found the one she wanted and took it out. True to her word it looked like a peacock had been miniaturized enough to sit on her head. The tail feathers fanned out behind her while lace and little gems adorned the rest. Oh. It stood out in all the worst ways. Poking her head around the screen she grinned. "See? Isn't it just perfect? I think I make his eye twitch every time I wear it!"

However, her grin softened as he told her he'd promise Ragnor such a grand thing. "No... you need not swear such a thing. I know you are good and will not harm me or my crew. We've given you no reason to. And should any of my crew try to give a reason, I will deal with them myself. You'll be fine... I promise you." She'd protect him with all that she was. Pulling away, she moved to put the hat up and stuff it back in the packed closet.

But her silence drug on as she closed the door and considered his words after explaining the little explosion in her rescue efforts. It was one of the reasons Ragnor was worried. Little set Magnus off. She'd prided herself in being impossibly laid back and fun loving. Now she couldn't say that. "Don't downplay it, Alec... that reaction if unacceptable. I was trained by the Silent Brothers at the beginning so it wouldn't happen again." Her voice trailed off at the again and sighed. "The last time was when I killed my step father. I was so small... I didn't know. I didn't know anything..."

Yet she had no regret. He deserved to burn for what he'd done to her. "But I'm happy to have saved you and kept my crew safe. It wasn't so bad or ominous this time." Moving to the bed, she pulled the sword off and tossed it aside on the bed. Sprawling on the sheets after that, she closed her eyes. "I won't give up. I'm rather attached to you now, like it or not."

Turning her head, she peered at him in amusement only catching his head over the lip of the tub from an odd angle because of the screen and her position. "I'll do my best to keep it enjoyable. Though, I can tell already I'll love your company in any event."

Then he agreed to stay. Her eyes brightened as they opened and she smiled. Sitting up, she slipped slowly off the bed and moved toward him. Without a word she rounded the screen, closing her eyes at the same time. Stepping closer she used memory and the feeling of the lip of the tub to guide her before she cupped his head in her hands. Never opening her eyes, she kissed the top of his head sweetly. "I want you to stay. Thank you..."

It was impossible not to get caught up in the story, smiling as he resumed washing away the the last of the blood and dirt. Alec had no sense of fashion, even less an idea of what sorts of hats a woman like Magnus would wear, but the descriptions of the feathers were enough for him to understand why Ragnor would twitch over it. Although setting it - and a boat - on fire wasn't appropriate behavior.

He heard her rummaging for something but assumed it was for more linens until she poked her head around the screen... with a brightly colored peacock nesting in her hair. At least that's what it looked like, if peacocks wore lace and jewelry.

Stifling a yelp, he stared first at the stuffed bird, then at Magnus, not even thinking of the fact that she would see him while he bathed. "I - It is perfect." For giving Ragnor fits. He wasn't sure what else it would be perfect for... or why someone had made it in the first place.

"I'll still make the vow, Magnus. I don't want your crew worrying because of me." The thought saddened him, but he understood. He'd read enough history to know how nephilim had treated Downworlders in the past. "I know my ancestors used to look for the slightest excuse to kill a Downworlder." He'd never been the type, but the crew didn't know that. They had no reason to trust him.

Closing his eyes as he tipped his head back against the lip of the tub, Alec considered her description of the battle and her past, not believing that the situation could be explained so simply. "If you hadn't acted in an unacceptable manner, I'd be dead." It was simple and blunt, but it was also the truth. The mention of the Silent Brothers along with the death of her stepfather caused him to pause. "Why did you kill him?"

It didn't sound like it was murder, even if she'd omitted enough details for it to sound suspicious. He couldn't believe that she had done it on purpose... at least not without reason.

Turning his head, he tried to catch her gaze, giving her a small smile that he doubted she could see. "I'm rather attached too." Which might have been why he didn't protest when she moved closer, eyes closed so not even a hint of bright gold showed beneath her lashes. Alec remained still, waiting to see what she was trying to do, not wanting to disturb her when she was focusing on keeping her direction. A flush warmed his skin as she caught his head between her hands and her lips brushed against his hair.

A strange impulse that he'd never had before accompanied his blush and he gently caught her wrists, holding her still so she wouldn't overbalance into the tub. Shifting slightly, he tipped his head up, placing a soft kiss to her lips. "Thank you for letting me stay."

"Isn't it? Some times I think it breaks something in his brain just looking at it. After all, I bought it for that sole purpose. You should see the bright teal riding jacket I owned to go with it. I think he threw that in the ocean..." Sighing dramatically, she swept away with the hat. "I have others. One side of the closet is for hats to annoy Ragnor, the others are the ones I actually like." Yes... a good deal of them had feathers. Just not those kinds of feathers.

"You aren't your ancestor's Alec. You are you. But if it makes you happy, then do it. The crew will feel better and Ragnor will pout that he has nothing left to complain about." Even if her first mate really didn't like complaining... she certainly thought he did. "I'll still keep you safe. I promise."

His question about her father made her pause. She stayed silent and didn't answer it. Answering it could be bad or not, but she wasn't sure. Alec seemed to understand better than most people. That explained why she chose to kiss his hair first. The soft touch of lips on silken strands. Only to gently gasp as he touched her wrist. She fought to keep her eyes closed then felt everything inside melt.

That simple soft press of lips to her own sent a jolt of electricity through her and she made a soft little mewl as he pulled away. Parted lips let little pants escape before she lowered to her knees and gently wrapped her arms about his neck. Taking absolute care not to open her eyes, she rested her head against his.

"You really want to know what happened? With my parents?" She pressed her lips together before taking a deep breath. "My mother killed herself when she saw my eyes... I was just a toddler." Pausing, she bit her lip and shared one detail she'd never shared before. "My eyes were mostly normal up till that day. They just suddenly changed... She hung herself because of me... then my father in anger did everything to kill me. And finally tried to drown me. And... it just all exploded."

Her voice trailed off and she slowly started to let him go. He didn't need a patricidal maniac hugging him. Information like that came with a price. One that made you stay alone. Which was why she rarely if ever told anyone.

Whatever thoughts he might have had about hats and questionable wardrobes and even his ancestors stilled as he gently kissed Magnus. It was something he'd never done before. There had been ladies who had tried to corner him, hoping that a kiss might earn his affections or lead to a situation where his parents might believe he compromised the girl's honor. Alec had managed to avoid them all, his feelings for Jace making it impossible for him to notice a woman in such a way.

At least until Magnus had rescued him, leaving him off balance in ways that he doubted he'd ever mind, looking at him as if he truly did matter.

It still shocked him that he'd been so forward, giving her a sign of affection that he'd never thought to give anyone else. Even when he was close to Jace, he'd never thought to kiss him, afraid of how things might change if he gave into his feelings.

With Magnus, it was simple, at least while he'd been acting it had been. He still wondered over it as he let go of her wrists, his heart fluttering as he caught his breath and a blush darkened his cheeks. He was about to apologize when she knelt beside the tub, arms going around his neck.

As she explained what happened, his heart clenched, the tentative happiness he'd felt scattering as he imagined how scared Magnus must have been when her father had attacked her. Taking her hand, he threaded his fingers between hers. "None of that is your fault, Magnus." There was no hint of doubt in his voice or revulsion. Only concern for her and an attempt to give comfort. "You can't help who your father was anymore than I can stop what my ancestors did to Downworlders. Your stepfather was trying to kill you. You protected yourself. There is nothing to be ashamed of or feel guilty for."

Turning her head, she couldn't help the tiny whisper in his ear. "I've never had a sweeter kiss." Pressing her face into his neck, she hid her face there. He felt warm and solid in her arms, and part of her felt guilty for using him for support when he didn't even know her. Not for lack of trying to tell him...

Breathing in deeply to get calmer, she felt a light headedness sweep through her that dazed her mind as Alec's scent filled her senses. That hadn't been planned on, and she didn't get away fast enough to give him his personal space back. Not that she needed it when his hand found hers.

The moment their fingers intertwined, she pressed closer and clung to him that much more. "I didn't mean to... I didn't know what I was doing." Her voice came softer that time. "I used to wish he'd succeeded. But I'm glad he didn't." Because if she'd been dead, Alec would have died. It sounded so small in a span of centuries, but it felt so true. "If I'd not been there for the Herondales back then... you never would have been born... if I'd not been here, you never would have survived... I am thankful I was there."

Shivering a little at his comforting words, she squeezed his hand gently. "You are... truly something, Alec. Something amazing and special. Never believe anything different."

His blush deepened at those words, embarrassment and pride mixing together as she held him. "It was my first." It probably wasn't something he should admit, but Magnus was telling him about his past and he wanted her to know that the kiss was important... that she was important even if she didn't seem to believe that.

Running the fingers of his free hand along her arm, he turned so he could softly kiss her cheek, still dazed by his own forwardness, but needing to give her comfort. "I know you didn't. But he was hurting you. You protected yourself. It was no different than killing the demons who were trying to kill me." Except she'd been a child and shouldn't have had to experience something that horrified most adults.

Brushing his thumb along her knuckles, he wondered about the Herondales she'd known and what she might have done to help them. "I'm glad too and not just because I'd be dead if you weren't. I want you to be here." With him. "I'll believe that if you try to believe the same about yourself."

It wouldn't be that easy of course, but maybe she'd start to reconsider her own worth. Letting out a quiet sigh, wished he didn't have to force her to move but knew he needed to get out of the tub before she became stuck like a statue beside it or he fell asleep in it. "I should probably get out now."