#the firsts

“Yeah.” Changbin answered, startling Aiden out of his internal debate of if he was going to throw up or not at the site of a woman spread eagle in the thumbnail of a video while Changbin scrolled through. “Haven’t you watched porn before?” 

“I’m a good Christian boy.” Aiden huffed with a smirk, crossing his arms over his chest. “I don’t partake in them sins of the flesh.” The forced exhale of laughter from Changbin had Aiden pouting. 

“Right. This coming from the guy who is making it a habit of waking me up in the middle of the night to tell me about his sexual dreams with Felix. Yeah, good Christian boy my ass.” He retorted and sighed. 

“Shut up! Okay listen, I’ve never thought of doing that okay?” Aiden whined, cheeks flushing with embarrassment because really, he felt like he was a weird kid. He was sure there were plenty of young men who spent their time watching porn and getting off. It was natural, or at least he assumed. 

“Wait.” Changbin shifted beside Aiden on his spot on the bed, eyes staring intently at him and Aiden actually shivered under the gaze - eyes adverting away. “So how do you know you’re gay?” He asked. It was a stupid question, but Aiden would be lying if he said he hadn’t questioned himself about that before. He had researched “how do you know if you’re gay” with safe search on. Maybe that’s what has kept him from seeing porn until now. 

“I mean, I like Felix and I have dreams about him. Doesn’t that make me gay?” Aiden asked confused, though he still refused to look at Changbin. 

“Yeah, but have you ever touched a dick before?” Changbin grunted when Aiden smacked his arm, their eyes locking once more as Aiden frowned.  “I’ve never seen porn before, but I know how to  jack off, idiot.” 

“Yeah, but have you touched someone else’s dick before?” The question had Aiden falling silent as he contemplated if it really mattered if he had touched another guy’s dick or not. Weren’t they all the same? Wasn’t it all the same? Was jacking off not considered a sign of knowing if he was gay?

“No?” He hadn’t meant to sound so unsure because the answer was a definitive no, he had touched no other dicks but his own. And yet he couldn’t help but feel shy and embarrassed for having that answer, a similar feeling he got when he was called to answer a question in class and was wrong. “Have you?”

“No. But I’m not the gay one.” Changbin shot back and Aiden groaned, pulling his bottom lip between his teeth. He looked towards the screen again and sighed. “So you’ve never watched porn and never touched another dick? Wow, you’re just an unconfirmed gay virgin.” Changbin teaser, a light laugh leaving him, but when Aiden didn’t laugh with him and avoided eye contact, he stopped and his smile fell. 

“Aiden? Hey, you know it’s okay right? I’m just teasing.”

“I know!” Aiden said quickly, but his insides were swimming with such a mixture of emotions that he wasn’t entirely sure what he felt most, embarrassment, self-pity, arousal even? It was very confusing for him. He jerked when he felt a hand touching his shoulder and he shyly lifted his gaze to meet Changbin’s. 

“Do you wanna, touch mine?” 

The question had Aiden sputtering in shock, eyes wide and cheeks now a darker shade of red than it had been before. “Do what? No! That would be so weird!” He exclaimed. “We’re like best friends.”

“Yeah, and best friends help each other out.” Changbin shrugged. “You know, gotta make sure you’re actually gay before your embarrass yourself in front of Felix.”  Aiden whined at that, but Changbin had a point. It couldn’t hurt, right? After all, Changbin was offering. 

“You’re sure it’s okay?” 

“Yeah, let me just find something that’ll get you off and -“

“What about you? I thought you weren’t gay?” Aiden questioned. 

“Hmmm.” Changbin hummed in thought. “I’m an equal opportunistic person. It’s fine.” He waved his hand at Aiden, his other hand gliding across the trackpad of the laptop to find the ‘gay’ section of the website. He scrolled for a bit after finding it and ended up choosing a video that looked pretty amateurish but the two guys were pretty young and twinkish. Given Aiden’s current crush, he figured these guys would be his type. 

Aiden wasn’t entirely too sure about this half baked plan, yet there was something exciting about it. He wasn’t sure what it was, but the idea of actually touching another dick was appealing if the surge of arousal that ran down his spine was anything to go by. Sitting back against the headboard, his eyes stared at the video that was slowly buffering while Changbin fought to close the six pop-ups about meeting hot singles in their area. 

Grumbling to himself, Changbin finally got the pop-ups closed and the video began playing - volume set low though he swore it was extremely loud. Perhaps it was because they were trying to watch porn in the middle of the day, and Changbin’s mother was out in the backyard tending to her garden. It was risky but thrilling and that alone had him half hard. But he was still hesitant, not sure if he should just whip his dick out now and start touching it. While he wasn’t a stranger to touching himself, it was different when someone else was in the room with him - almost embarrassing. 

Changbin settled next to him, his hand rested on his abdomen and looking so very comfortable and not at all fazed by this situation.  Aiden almost envied how calm and collected he seemed to be and decided that maybe he would just imitate the other; settling himself in the same position as Changbin, eyes moving to focus back on the laptop where the lewd, slurping sounds were spilling from. 

Five minutes or maybe it was 3 hours - Aiden couldn’t be sure - passed, and the video only seemed like it was halfway done. The two men had only recently just started fucking and by now Aiden knew of two different positions you could have sex in. He was learning a lot, but at some point, he had stopped analyzing and started feeling. Feeling how hard he was, how heady the moans from the strangers on the screen sent weird yet pleasant sparks of white-hot something through him. It was a sensation he hadn’t experienced before but he liked it, he liked it a lot. His hand slowly slipped from its resting place on his stomach and casually slid down to the front of his sweats - tented from his straining erection, a small wet spot forming. 

His pinkie was the first to graze it, touch light and airy. He inhaled harshly because fuck if that didn’t feel good. His cock twitched, throbbed and Aiden wanted nothing more than to wrap his hand around it and start stroking. But he stopped himself, unsure if he should because Changbin was still there. And even though he offered to let Aiden touch his dick, he hadn’t uttered a single word since the start of the video. Biting his lower lip, Aiden decided to take a quick peek at Changbin, eyes shifting to the other male and widening at the sight. 

“Hey! You said I could touch it.” He all but whined out, Changbin’s hand stilling over his hard member, head-turning to face him. His cheeks were flushed a bright red, lips parted as soft pants left them. 

“Sorry?” He muttered out breathlessly, a smirk playing across his lips. “You didn’t seem to be interested in doing much. You haven’t even touched yourself.” Changbin noticed and Aiden didn’t know what was hotter, how deep Changbin’s voice sounded when he was horny or the fact the other had actually been watching and waiting for him to start touching himself. Maybe both were equally hot? His cock seemed to think so as it gave another twitch at the thought, a reminder that it was still hard and needed attention. 

“Oh.” It was a pathetic response and Aiden lowered his head in slight shame. The laughter that Changbin let out only added to the shame and embarrassment that he felt and briefly he thought that maybe this was a mistake. He wasn’t given the chance to even suggest that maybe they should stop when he felt fingers close around his wrist with gentle pressure. The movement was hesitant, Changbin giving him the chance to pull his hand away. Aiden let his hand be guided, though, watching with a curious gaze and excitement building up inside him as his hand was placed over the straining erection of his best friend. It was instinct that his fingers curled and closed around it and Aiden marveled at the feeling. 

It was different. He couldn’t explain why or how, but feeling Changbin hot and heavy in his hand was so different than feeling himself in his hand. He really it. Aiden moved his hand, angle awkward as he did his best to stroke the other - going slow at first as he watched Changbin’s expression for confirmation of how he was feeling. His lips were parted, soft moans leaving him as his hand fell from Aiden’s wrist, letting the other do what he wanted. 

“I-Is this okay?” Soft, meek, Aiden would have been embarrassed for just how damn shy and unsure he sounded at that moment, but he couldn’t bring himself to care. He was more worried about making Changbin feel good.

“Harder.” Aiden’s hands faltered for a moment, brows furrowing at the words. He found Changbin’s hand resting over his, fingers pressing into Aiden’s to tighten his grip and - oh. “Fuck.”

Who would have figured such a simple word could cause such a burning desire to bubble up in Aiden’s chest, a moan tumbling from his lips. Shit, how embarrassing. Was he supposed to be getting off on the sounds of Changbin? Wasn’t that weird? There were so many questions racing through his mind, but he had to push them to the back and focus. Focus on the hot cock twitching in his hand, precum beading up at the slit. He thought about tasting it but decided against it. That would surely be too weird for friends to do. 

His hand worked over Changbin at a steady and even pace. On each upstroke, he would give a little squeeze just under the head, an action he found that Changbin seemed to like as his head fell back against the headboard with a loud thunk - more sinful moans falling filling the air. 

“Binnie,” he brought his bottom lip between his teeth once more as he watched the way Changbin’s back arched, hips jerking up into his hand, driving his cock faster into his fist. “Changbinnie~” he tried again, successfully getting the other’s attention this time.  Dark eyes clouded with lust locked with his and Aiden gasped sharply, lips pressing together to suppress a moan because fuck if that look wasn’t hot. 

“What is it?” Aiden stuttered, stumbling over his words as he tried to tell Changbin that he wanted to be touched too, but the words simply wouldn’t come out. The corner of Changbin’s lip curled upwards and Aiden pouted, whining in frustration. 

“Me too.” He sounded like a child, wanting to be included and Changbin could only chuckle as he shifted on the bed - weight resting more on his left side as he reached over and ghosted his fingers over Aiden’s crotch, pulling a loud gasp from the other. 

“I barely touched you.”

“Felt good anyway.” Aiden whispered, eyes closing and head-turning away from embarrassment. Changbin laughed lightly, head shaking at the comment. Aiden was truly something else. His hand cupped Aiden, fingers closing around him lightly, stroking slowly. Aiden’s hips jerked up at the touch, loud whimpers and moans leaving him. 

“Be quiet, don’t want my mom to hear.” Changbin scolded lightly, receiving a whine in protest, yet Aiden bit his bottom lip to try and stifle the noises that wanted to spill from him. The pleasure he felt was different. It was stronger, heightened and he could only imagine it was like that because someone else was touching him. It was exhilarating. 

“Binnie.” Aiden breathed, breath hitching as he jerked his hips up again, his cock sliding against the loose fist around his still covered cock. “Please.” He practically begged. Changbin grunted and tightened his grip, but his hand was slow - almost lazy - as he mimicked the pace Aiden had slowed to on his own dick. 

“This better?” 

“No.” It sounded almost like a growl, Aiden’s brows furrowed together in frustration because it certainly wasn’t better. Sure Changbin was stroking him but it wasn’t nearly as fast as Aiden wanted. It was like a small sizzle of fire just under his skin and he needed some winds to fan the flames and make him burn. 

“Maybe you should start moving your hand then.” Changbin quipped, smirk dancing on his lips as Aiden finally turned his head back and stared at Changbin. 

“You’re the worst.” He whispered with a pout and Changbin snorted. 

“Hey, I wanna get off too. So start stroking.” Aiden rolled his eyes, but his grip tightened around Changbin and he started stroking him once more. His mind was focused once more on how Changbin felt in his hand, and the lewd moans he was pulling from the other, so loud against his ear. And he was the one that supposed to be quiet? “Fuck, just like that.” Hot and heavy - breathless - the words were whispered, Changbin’s lips grazing against his ear as he shifted closer to him. The hand left him, and Aiden was close to sobbing and begging for more that it was actually humiliating. But he wanted it so badly. He needed Changbin’s hand on him. 

Thankfully, before any words could leave his lips, Changbin’s hand slipped under the hem of his sweatpants and underwear. The second skin met skin, Aiden could swear he saw heaven because fuck if that didn’t feel amazing. “Binnie.” Aiden whimpered pathetically, his voice nearly inaudible over the loud hiss Changbin let out as Aiden squeezed him just a little too hard. Panting harshly, Changbin gripped Aiden and stroked him quickly, chuckling as Aiden jerked and trembled under his touch. His thumb grazed over the head, smearing each bead of precum that bubbles up.

Aiden groaned as he lowered his head to rest on Changbin’s shoulder, eyes screwed shut as he basked in the pleasure the other was causing. Briefly, he released Changbin’s cock long enough to shift himself into a more comfortable position facing the other. Reaching back down, he grabbed Changbin again and started stroking him - mimicking the way Changbin’s fingers moved over his cock. His movements were quick and not nearly as clean as Changbin’s but it seemed to be enough. Breaths mixed and mingled, moans lingering in the silent room as the two boys worked to get each other off. 

It was embarrassing how quickly Aiden reached his end, the heat in his gut coiling tighter and tighter. “Changbin.” He breathed out, wiggling against the other to grip the other’s wrist with his free hand and failing. “Stop, gonna cum.” Even with the warning, Changbin didn’t seem to have any intention of stopping. It only seemed to spur him on more as he stroked his cock faster. He was twitching and leaking heavily in Changbin’s grasp. “Chang-“

“Cum.” The demand whispered so hotly in his ear had Aiden tensing, his body reacting on its own. Needy whines and choked gasps fell past parted lips as Aiden’s head fell back onto the pillows behind him as he came into Changbin’s hand. It was intense, an orgasm that Aiden didn’t think it was possible he could have. He certainly couldn’t get himself off this well. 

“Fuck, shit.” He gasped out, muscles slowly relaxing as the last wave of ecstasy washed over him. The soft hum from Changbin captured Aiden’s attention and he reminded of what he should have been doing. He started moving his still hand once more, finding the movement slicker and as he looked down he realized Changbin already came - his cock softening in his hand, so he released him. He was at a loss for words now, both of them quiet save for their pants as they rode down their highs. 

Silently, Changbin reached over Aiden and grabbed a few tissues from his bedside table. Cleaning up their messes took a bit of time and in the end, Aiden was sure there was probably some cum that got on the comforter. “So, have fun?” Changbin asked as he tossed the wads of tissues into the trash can.

“Yeah.” Aiden swallowed thickly, tongue swiping against his dry lips in an effort to revitalize them. “That was mind-blowing.” He said and laughed lightly. 

“You think that was mind-blowing? Wait till you actually have sex.” Changbin snorted as he settled back down in his bed, laptop long-forgotten near the end.  “You’ve had sex?” Aiden asked in shock, eyes wide. How could his best friend not tell him something that important?

“No, I’m just saying.” Changbin said quickly. “I hear it’s supposed to be really good.”

“Oh.” Aiden wasn’t at all convinced, but he would let it go for now. 

“So, can you say with 100% conviction that you’re gay?” Changbin asked, reminding Aiden of the whole point of them even jerking each other off. 

“Oh! Yeah.” He said, a goofy smile spreading over his lips. “Dicks are fucking amazing.”

“Are they now?” 

“Completely. I wonder if Felix has a nice dick?” Aiden contemplated, crying out when Changbin shoved him roughly off his bed. “Dude!”

“I just got you off and you’re talking about another man. Not in my bed!” 

Groaning, Aiden sat up and leaned against the side of the bed. He stuck his tongue out at Changbin, laughing. 

“Whatever. Wanna shower?” He asked and Changbin nodded. “Cool, but no butt stuff!” Aiden said as he climbed to his feet, grinning. 

“I swear to god, I’m going to drown you under the showerhead.” Changbin threatened halfheartedly, pulling another laugh from Aiden as the male walked naked from his room. 

“You know you love me!” 

Centuries before Nyah Fairwood Bane was born, a significant event unfolded—the creation of the first Ablation, a being forged from Angel blood to aid the Shadowhunters in their mission to eradicate Demons from Earth. Unfortunately, the first Ablation did not go as planned and they Spiraled into a Shadow. 

Determined to rectify the failure of the first Ablation, the Clave ordered the same Warlock to create another. This second Ablation eventually formed deep bonds with others. Through these connections, he chose and was chosen to have an Anchor and a Parabatai, who supported him as he navigated his existence and ultimately ascended to become a Gemini. 

These are excerpts from the history of The Firsts…

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Caspian Shieldwinds was deeply engrossed in his work, nestled in his secluded hut in the heart of the forest. His surroundings were a clutter of ancient scrolls, bubbling potions, and mysterious artifacts. The only sound was the scratch of his quill on parchment until a sudden hiss from his black cat with icy blue eyes broke the silence. 

"I am aware, my feline friend," Caspian said to the cat, his eyes never leaving the parchments before him. "We have a visitor." 

"Lower your Wards, Shieldwinds! I need to discuss something with you!" a gruff male voice bellowed from outside, shattering the tranquility. 

Caspian recognized the voice immediately. With a flamboyant flick of his hand, he lowered the magical barriers surrounding his hut. "You may enter," he called out. 

The creaky wooden door swung open, revealing Augustus Nightweaver with his ten year old, sickly-looking son Elijah in tow. Caspian set his parchments aside and gently stroked his feline companion, who stood protectively on the desk. "To what do I owe this meeting?" he inquired, curiosity piqued. 

Augustus, standing straighter, approached and handed a small bottle over to him. "An Angel visited me last night and gave me their blood. They need you to create an Angel that can live in this Realm." 

Caspian reached out to take the bottle, then quickly recoiled, laughter bubbling up incredulously. "What did you just say to me?" he asked, standing. "You claim that an Angel visited you to request a being be created from their blood, with the powers of an Angel?" 

Augustus nodded affirmatively. "Yes. They see our struggles against the Demons and want to level the battlefield." He set the bottle in front of Caspian. "You are the only Creator I trust with this. Will you do it?"

Caspian picked up the bottle, examining it briefly before setting it safely in a small coffer near the window. "What do I get in return?" he asked, turning to face Augustus. "We may be allied, but my magic comes with a price."

At that moment, Augustus pushed Elijah forward. "Elijah will be placed in your custody to raise as your own. He is too weak to be a Shadowhunter."

Caspian couldn't believe what he was hearing. He looked at the frail child, who avoided his gaze and stared at the floor. Caspian then looked back to Augustus. "You wish to give me your first-born son as payment for this request?" When Augustus nodded again, Caspian thought for a moment. "It is a deal. Come along, Elijah, you can help me gather some ingredients." He held out his hand, and when Elijah meekly took it, Caspian said to himself as they left the hut with the feline in tow, "I do hope stories are not told about this form of payment one day."

As they ventured into the forest, the evening sun cast long shadows, and the air was filled with the scent of pine and earth. Caspian glanced down at Elijah, who still looked apprehensive but curious. "Do not worry, young one," he said gently. "You are safe with me."

Elijah nodded slightly, his grip on Caspian's hand tightening as they walked deeper into the woods, the promise of a legendary future unfolding with each step they took.

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Creating such an elaborate spell as the one the Clave wanted took time. Not only was time needed to create the spell but to find the rare ingredients that would hold the attributes needed. Being a Creator Warlock, Caspian could envision what was needed in order to create his intentions. The incantations would filter into his mind like music, and his conjuration of magic like a dance when it all came together like a masterpiece. And masterpieces took time.

Elijah sat by the small window of the humble hut, his eyes fixed on the sprawling forest beyond. It was a quiet evening, with the golden light of the setting sun casting long shadows across the room. The scent of herbs and potions filled the air, a constant reminder of the world he had been brought into. He watched as Caspian, his guardian and mentor, moved gracefully around the makeshift workbench, gathering ingredients and muttering incantations under his breath.

It had taken nearly a year before Elijah found the courage to speak to Caspian. He remembered the day vividly—an overcast afternoon when he had finally asked why Caspian had accepted him as payment. The memory of Caspian's warm smile and the simple yet genuine explanation had stayed with him. If Elijah's father had been willing to trade him away, Caspian had reasoned, then he could surely offer the boy a better life. That was the first time Elijah had smiled in what felt like an eternity.

Elijah had been weak and sickly when Caspian took him in. The days that followed were filled with herbal treatments, exercises, and perhaps a touch of magic. Slowly, he grew stronger, his once frail body gaining muscle and stamina. He might not have been trained as a Shadowhunter, but he could hold his own in a scuffle with his peers. His mind, sharp and analytical, absorbed information like a sponge. He memorized every ingredient in Caspian's repertoire and their uses, becoming adept at creating tonics and remedies without the need for magic.

Six years had passed since that day, and now Elijah stood on the brink of a new chapter. Caspian had announced that the Creation spell—the Ablation spell, as he called it—was ready. Elijah watched with a mix of anticipation and worry as Caspian gathered parchments and rare ingredients into a worn leather satchel.

The air inside the hut was tense with unspoken fears and concerns. Elijah sat at the wooden table, his mind racing with thoughts of what could go wrong. He couldn't shake the worry that had been building up inside him.

“Father, what if it doesn’t work as you plan? The Clave will be angry that you used the Angel’s blood with no way of getting more.” Elijah's voice trembled as he finally voiced his concerns.

Caspian paused, placing the satchel down and resting a reassuring hand on Elijah’s shoulder. “I am a Creator, son. My spells never fail.” Despite his confident words, he could see the worry etched in Elijah’s eyes. “Tell me how I can ease your worries, Elijah.”

Elijah thought for a moment before dashing to the table where a knife lay. Before Caspian could stop him, he sliced his palm and let the blood flow into a bowl beneath his clenched hand. The sight of Elijah's blood sent fear coursing through him.

“What are you doing?!” Caspian's voice was tinged with panic as he quickly took the knife from Elijah's hand and used his magic to heal the wound. “What are you thinking?!” His tone was a mix of reprimand and worry.

“Use my blood first,” Elijah answered, holding the bowl up to Caspian. “That way, if it doesn’t work, then you didn’t waste the Angel’s blood. If it does work, then we will have another member of our family.”

Caspian’s mouth went agape. Rarely in his life had he been rendered speechless, but this was one of those times. When he finally regained his composure, he took the bowl from Elijah and set it gently on the table. “I cannot do that. If the Clave finds out I experimented before creating their Ablation, then…”

“Don’t tell them,” Elijah said with a simplicity that belied the gravity of the situation. “Don’t tell anyone.” He paused for a moment, his eyes earnest. “You asked how you could ease my worries, father. This is how.”

Caspian had a very, very, very bad feeling about this, but he didn’t want his son to be fearful. He would do as he was asked and find a way to deal with the consequences. Besides, the spell accounted for the Angel’s blood, so using Elijah’s could very likely mean it wouldn’t work. “Alright,” Caspian finally said, placing a gentle hand on Elijah’s shoulder. “We leave for Lake Lyn at dusk.”

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After exiting the Portal on the shores of Lake Lyn, Caspian instructed Elijah to stay further back, just in case. The moonlight cast an eerie glow over the still waters of the lake, illuminating the ancient trees surrounding them. The air was filled with a heavy silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves.

Caspian carefully poured Elijah’s blood into the water, along with the other rare ingredients. The mixture began to shimmer, casting a faint glow on the lake's surface. He then began to chant in an ancient language—one Elijah had never heard before but somehow understood every word. Caspian's hands moved gracefully, weaving his magic over the water before thrusting it out over the lake. The incantation echoed through the night, creating an aura of mystique around them.

The water glowed as the ball of swirling magic descended beneath the surface, then… nothing. Caspian had anticipated this outcome; without the Angel’s blood, the spell wouldn't work. He frowned, his eyes searching the water for any sign of change.

“So, it doesn’t work,” Elijah said, moving to stand beside Caspian and crossing his arms. His voice was tinged with disappointment. “Just like I was worried it wouldn’t.”

“It likely does not work because I used your blood instead of the Angel’s,” Caspian countered, his gaze fixed on the tranquil lake. He sighed and turned to Elijah, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Come, my son, let us go home.” Just as he was about to lead Elijah away, the lake began to bubble violently. A bright light shot out from the center of the lake towards the shore, and moments later, a girl, appearing about sixteen years old, burst forth from the water with a gasp.

Caspian quickly removed his cloak and wrapped it around the girl, who was coughing and struggling to catch her breath. To ensure she hadn’t ingested any harmful water, he cast a healing spell upon her. “Are you alright, young one?” he asked gently, his voice filled with concern.

The girl, who bore an uncanny resemblance to Elijah, looked up at Caspian with wide, inquisitive eyes. Her wet hair clung to her face, and her clothes were drenched. “Are you Caspian?” she asked meekly, aware of his name but not his face.

Caspian brushed the wet hair from her face and nodded. “Yes, young one, I am.”

Without warning, the girl threw her arms around him and cried out, “Father!” Her voice was filled with both relief and joy.

Caspian embraced the girl tightly, his heart swelling with emotion. He glanced over his shoulder at Elijah, who stood there, stunned. The boy's eyes were wide with shock and wonder. “It’s time to take you and your brother home, my daughter,” Caspian said softly, guiding them both back towards the Portal he had conjured to take them back to their hut.

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Over the few days that had passed since casting the spell at Lake Lyn, Caspian learned much about his little Ablation daughter. She shared the same knowledge as Elijah and was mentally and physically identical to him in age, but she had no memories of her own. The knowledge was there, but it was not attached to any personal experiences. She had also chosen her own name—Eliana. Caspian instantly loved her as much as he did Elijah, but he knew that if he did not handle things properly, it would not end well for any of them.

Finally, one evening as the fire crackled in the hearth, Caspian sat down at the wooden table and looked at his feline friend across from him. The black cat with icy blue eyes regarded him curiously. “I need your help, old friend,” Caspian said in a hushed voice, ensuring that Elijah and Eliana, who were asleep in the sleeping quarters, would not hear. “Eliana cannot be a Shadowhunter. Her true nature will be discovered. Please, Katarina, I need you to…make her something else.”

Smoke swirled around the black feline, and as it dissipated, it revealed a woman with raven black hair and icy blue cat eyes shrouded in a black cloak sitting on the table where the cat once sat. The transformation was seamless, and Katarina now gazed at him with an enigmatic smile. “And what will you give me in return, I wonder?” she asked, her voice smooth and teasing.

Caspian had anticipated this. Katarina had always emphasized the importance of never using their magic for free. “What do you desire?” He was afraid to ask the question, but Katarina was the only Warlock he knew with the power he needed. Not even his Creation abilities could craft a spell for this.

Katarina softly drummed her fingers on the table as she leaned back with an impish smile. “You know what I want, Caspian, dear.”

Caspian’s face hardened. “I will not give it to you.”

Katarina shrugged nonchalantly. “I suppose your daughter doesn’t mean as much as you claim.” She began to transform back into her feline form but stopped when Caspian stood up abruptly. She watched as he walked over to a blank wall, removed a glamour to reveal a set of hidden shelves, retrieved a small box, and then replaced the glamour. He returned to the table and slid the box over to her.

Katarina picked up the box, opened it, and admired the amulet within. The gem sparkled with an inner light, casting a faint glow on her face. “My, my, you are truly serious, old friend. I never thought you would part with this.”

Caspian didn’t respond to her comment. “Do we have a deal?” he asked, his voice steady, though his heart ached at parting with the precious amulet.

Katarina slipped the box into her cloak. “Yes.” With her other hand, she pulled out a small pouch and handed it to him. “This charm contains the magic of a troublesome little Warlock who crossed me the wrong way one too many times in the past. As long as your daughter wears this, she will have a Warlock Mark and will be able to use magic as a Warlock would. Be sure she never loses this and never takes it off. Do not worry about it accidentally falling off – once it is in place, she will be the only one who can remove it.”

Caspian accepted the pouch from her. “Why do you not put the magic directly into her? This method is risky for her, is it not?”

“I can see her aura, old friend. Your daughter has magic of her own; she just cannot access it yet. You know there is a balance in all Creation magic. Be careful with her and any others you may create.” With that, smoke swirled around her once more, and she returned to her feline form.

Caspian looked at the charm in his hand before glancing over at Eliana, who slept peacefully nearby. “This is for the best,” he whispered to himself. “It has to be done.”

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The next morning, as the first light of dawn filtered through the small windows of the hut, Caspian gently woke Eliana. She blinked sleepily up at him, her eyes filled with trust and curiosity. He handed her the charm, explaining its importance and the need for her to wear it always. Eliana nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of his words.

Elijah watched from the doorway, his expression a mix of concern and protectiveness. Caspian knew this was a necessary step to ensure Eliana's safety and their family's future. As Eliana placed the charm around her neck, a faint glow enveloped her. The Warlock Mark appeared—red scales spread out across the outline of her forehead, and her hair turned a purplish-blue hue.

“Remember, Eliana, you must never remove this charm,” Caspian said, his voice gentle but firm. “It will protect you and allow you to harness your magic.”

Eliana nodded again, her eyes wide with determination. “I understand, Father.”

Caspian smiled, a sense of relief washing over him. He looked at Elijah, who stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on Eliana's shoulder. “We’re in this together,” he said softly. “We’ll always protect each other.”

Caspian looked at his children proudly before announcing, “It’s time.”

Elijah instantly knew what that meant. “You are going to create the Angel’s Ablation?”

Caspian nodded in confirmation. “I cannot put it off any longer.” He moved to retrieve the Angel blood from its hiding place and the other ingredients he needed.

Elijah's worry was evident in his voice. “Will he be there?”

Caspian paused when Elijah asked that. This was the first time Elijah had mentioned Augustus in years. “I do not know if Augustus will be there.” He turned to face both his children. “You do not need to come.”

Elijah thought for a moment before speaking with quiet resolve. “No, it’s alright. I’ll come.”

“Me, too,” Eliana smiled. “I want to meet the new Ablation.”

“You can’t tell anyone the truth of what you are, Eliana. Not even to the new Ablation. As far as anyone is concerned, the Ablation I create today is the only one in existence. Understood?” Caspian’s tone was serious, the gravity of the situation clear.

“Understood,” the children answered together, and Caspian truly hoped that they did understand.

----------------------------------------

Caspian had previously sent word to the Clave, informing them of the precise time and date he would be traveling to Lake Lyn to perform the Angel Ablation ritual. In his message, he included information that he deemed safe to share, providing the Clave with an outline of what to expect. However, he carefully omitted any details that might raise suspicions about his knowledge beyond the confines of creating the spell.

When Caspian, accompanied by Elijah and Eliana, exited the Portal and stepped onto the shores of Lake Lyn, he was met by Augustus and a few other Shadowhunters who were already waiting. Caspian cast a glance at Elijah to gauge his reaction, but Elijah was busy whispering to Eliana, seemingly identifying the individuals present – particularly Augustus.

Caspian's attention shifted from his children as Augustus approached them with a stern expression. "You are late, Shieldwinds," Augustus accused, his gaze flickering to Caspian's young companions. "Didn't feel the need to bring my son with you?"

Caspian addressed Augustus calmly, "I arrived exactly as I said I would." He turned to Elijah briefly before looking back at Augustus, shaking his head. "Your son? If Elijah were still your son, you would recognize him, Augustus."

Augustus stared in disbelief. "Impossible?" He pointed at the boy, his voice holding an incredulous and shocked tone, "That is Elijah? By the Angel..."

Caspian looked back at Elijah and Eliana, his expression softening. "Be sure to stay away from the shore, my children. The Ablation will likely be disoriented, and I do not wish to overwhelm them."

Elijah and Eliana both glared daggers at Augustus before complying with their father's instructions, moving away from the shore. Caspian couldn't help but smirk when he heard Eliana mutter something about wanting to turn Augustus into a toad.

"You all take a few steps back as well," Caspian directed the other Shadowhunters. Once they complied, he began the ritual, performing the same spell he had used to create Eliana. He poured the blood and rare ingredients into the water, chanted the enchantment in an unknown language, and conjured the magic, shooting it over the lake. Just as with Eliana's creation, the magic lowered into the water, glowed for a moment, then nothing happened.

Augustus was not amused. "What is the meaning of this?" he demanded.

"Patience, Shadowhunter," Caspian replied. A few moments later, just as with Eliana's creation, the lake began to bubble. A ball of light ignited in the center of the lake and shot toward the shore. A young woman, appearing to be in her late twenties or early thirties, emerged from the light and landed on the shore with a deep gasp.

Elijah quickly retrieved the cloak he had brought for the Ablation and wrapped it around her as Caspian cast a healing spell to ensure she hadn't ingested any of the lake's water.

"Where am I?" the woman gasped, looking around in confusion. She turned her gaze to Elijah, who had given her the cloak. "Who are you?"

Before anyone could answer, Augustus and the other Shadowhunters approached. "Well done, Warlock," Augustus said to Caspian. "Your work here is done." He gestured for two Shadowhunters to seize the woman.

"What is happening? Where are the Angels? Where is my family?" the woman cried out in fear and confusion. When the Shadowhunters tried to grab her, she recoiled, "Don't touch me!"

"Leave her alone!" Elijah shouted, pushing one of the Shadowhunters away and standing protectively in front of the woman. "Don't treat her like this!"

"Move, boy," Augustus said firmly. "That creature is nothing more than a weapon to be used at our disposal."

"She’s not a creature!" Eliana shouted as she joined Elijah in front of the woman. "She is an Ablation made from Angel blood. That makes her an Angel. How dare you speak to her in such a way!"

Caspian stepped between his children and the Shadowhunters, trying to de-escalate the situation. "Augustus, I included in my message that you needed to tread lightly with the Ablation. You cannot be harsh or expect too much too quickly. There is still much we do not know..."

"Silence!" Augustus shouted, cutting Caspian off. "I already told you that your work here is done. Now get out of my way and take your so-called children with you unless you want me to report to the Clave that you and your kind tried to start a war over a creature that was already paid for."

Caspian glanced back at the woman, who was standing behind Eliana and Elijah, looking terrified and confused. His heart ached for her. "Just allow me to explain things to her. Please."

Augustus scoffed. "You have three minutes." He waved his hand dismissively.

Elijah quickly spoke to Caspian as he joined them. "Father, you cannot let them take her. They won’t understand her."

"I don’t have a choice, son," Caspian said regretfully. He turned his attention to the woman. "I am Caspian, and these are my children, Elijah and Eliana. You are an Ablation created from Angel blood to help the Shadowhunters fight the Demons on earth. They will treat you as a weapon, but you are an Angelic being, a person." He paused, letting the information sink in. "Do you have any knowledge of what I am talking about?"

The woman nodded, sharing the knowledge of the Angel the blood was taken from. "I do not like this. I want to be with the Angels."

"You can’t," Caspian said, his voice filled with sorrow. "I am truly sorry." He knew time was running short. "What is your name?"

The woman thought for a moment, then said, "I don’t know. What should it be?"

"You get to decide," Eliana said with a smile, wishing the Shadowhunters weren’t going to take her away.

The woman considered it and then said, "Beyla. My name is Beyla."

Caspian smiled. "It is good to meet you, Beyla." He took her hands and squeezed them gently. "Do not forget who you are. No matter what they try to make you become, do not forget who you are."

"Time's up!" Augustus shouted, approaching them.

Beyla pulled the cloak tighter around her. "I don’t want to go."

Elijah placed a reassuring hand on Beyla’s arm. "I will go with you."

"What?" Caspian gasped. "No, my son. I won’t allow it."

"I won’t allow them to destroy her," Elijah countered, looking firmly at Augustus. "I am going with Beyla."

Augustus scoffed, “I do not care. Let’s move out!”

Eliana didn’t want her brother to go. "Elijah..."

Elijah looked at his sister and said, "Stay with father. I will be fine and will see you as soon as I can." He hugged Eliana and Caspian. "I love you both."

"Goodbye," Beyla said softly before walking off with Elijah and the Shadowhunters.

Once they were out of earshot, Eliana said, "Father... I think I have to obey Elijah."

Caspian looked at his daughter with concern. "What do you mean?"

"I want to chase after him, but I can’t. He told me to stay with you, and I feel like I have to." Eliana looked up at Caspian with worry. "I have a bad feeling about this."

Caspian hugged his daughter tightly as he watched the group disappear. "As do I, my young one. As do I."

--------------------------------

One Year Later

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the courtyard where Beyla circled Elijah, their eyes locked in concentration. They had drawn quite a crowd of Shadowhunters, all eager to witness their sparring match. In the year since Elijah and Beyla had been taken away by Augustus, both had grown and evolved remarkably. Elijah had become stronger and more skilled, his body now bearing several Runes that enhanced his abilities. Beyla, on the other hand, had come to terms with the fact that she might never enter the Heavenly Realm to be with the Angels. Yet, she found solace in her new family – Elijah, who had become her everything.

“You must pay close attention to your opponent,” Elijah called out to the spectators, his Seraph Daggers gleaming in the sunlight. “Even if they are more powerful than you, or stronger or faster, you can still find an opportunity to strike and gain the upper hand.”

Beyla smirked at Elijah’s determination. “If you say so,” she teased, then charged at him with her Blade. The air crackled with energy as their Blades clashed, the sound echoing around them. True to his words, Elijah found an opening. With a swift move, he tripped Beyla and brought his Daggers to her throat. “I say so,” he smirked before stepping back and helping her to her feet.

Their moment of camaraderie was abruptly interrupted. “What is the meaning of this foolishness?” Augustus’s voice boomed as the group quickly dispersed. “You are supposed to be hunting, not playing games!”

“We were doing a demonstration,” Beyla countered with defiance in her eyes. “It was going quite well until you barged in without an invitation.”

“Watch your tone, Ablation,” Augustus said firmly. “There has been Demon activity in the north. Take your pick of Shadowhunters and deal with it.”

“Yes, sir,” Beyla replied with sarcasm, a hint of a smirk playing on her lips. She turned to Elijah and spotted Marcel Baywing, the only other Shadowhunter who hadn’t fled at Augustus’s arrival. “Want to hunt a Demon with us, Baywing?”

“It would be an honor,” Marcel replied, casting a disdainful look at Augustus before joining them.

----------------------------------

As they approached the location of the Demon attack, the sounds of battle grew louder. They saw spells and streams of red magic being hurled at a towering, scaled Demon with large horns and talons. The magic was unmistakably Caspian’s and Eliana’s.

“Well I’ll be,” Beyla smiled at Elijah. “Let’s give your family a bit of assistance, shall we?”

Elijah twirled his Daggers with a grin and charged alongside Beyla and Marcel. With the combined strength of the five warriors, the Demon stood no chance and was swiftly defeated. With the battle won, Elijah turned to Caspian and Eliana, his grin broadening. “Did you miss me?” he asked playfully.

“Elijah!” Eliana gasped, throwing her arms around her brother in a tight hug. “Oh, I have missed you so. Fire messages are not enough.”

After Eliana stepped back, Caspian pulled Elijah into a warm embrace. “I have missed you, my son.” He looked at Elijah with pride shining in his eyes. “You have embraced the Shadowhunter ways, I see.”

“I doubt I would have been able to make it without him,” Beyla smiled at Elijah before gesturing to Marcel. “This is Marcel Baywing. Marcel, this is Caspian Shieldwinds and his daughter Eliana.”

“It is an honor to meet you both. Elijah has spoken of you often.” Marcel bowed his head in respect.

Caspian and Eliana returned the gesture before Caspian spoke. “As much as I would love to continue this reunion, I must inform you that there are more Demons further in the woods. I am uncertain as to what is attracting them, but they are there.”

“Well then,” Beyla smirked, her eyes glinting with determination. “Let’s go hunting.”

-----------------------------------------

After the group had successfully dealt with the other, thankfully smaller, Demons, Eliana's keen eyes caught sight of something unusual burned into the ground of the forest. She moved aside some fallen leaves and revealed a strange symbol etched into the earth. "Father!" she called out urgently to Caspian. "These Demons were summoned here."

"What?" Caspian and the others quickly gathered around her to take a closer look. When Caspian confirmed that Eliana was right, he swiftly cast a spell over the symbol, dispersing its magic so no other Demons could come through. "I do not understand. Who would summon them?" Caspian pondered aloud as he circled the now dispelled symbol, his mind racing with possibilities.

"Has there been other activity like this recently?" Eliana asked, looking at Elijah and the others for any clues.

"No," Elijah replied, shaking his head. Beyla added, "Demonic activity has been quieter over the past few months, and this was the first hunt in weeks."

“Do you recognize the magic?” Marcel asked Beyla, gesturing to the symbol. He figured with her Angelic knowledge, she might have some insight.

“No, I don’t,” Beyla answered honestly, her brows furrowing in concentration. “I have no knowledge of this spell nor any memory of it.” After a moment of contemplation, she suggested with a hint of sarcasm and disdain, “We should get back and ask our dear Augustus if anything has been kept from us.”

“Agreed,” Elijah concurred, then turned to embrace his father and sister. “I will see you both soon. I love you both.”

Caspian and Eliana returned the hug, expressing their love in turn. Caspian then conjured a Portal for them. “This will shorten the length of your journey back. Be safe – all of you.”

Caspian and Eliana watched as Elijah, Beyla, and Marcel disappeared through the Portal. Once it snapped shut, Caspian turned to Eliana and conjured another Portal to take them home. “We must prepare, Eliana,” he said with a grave expression.

Eliana, sensing the tension in her father’s voice, asked, “For what, father?”

Caspian’s gaze was distant, a bad feeling settling in the pit of his stomach. He replied solemnly, “The worst.”

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As Beyla, Elijah, and Marcel emerged from the portal into the open field, an oppressive stillness greeted them. The air felt thick with anticipation, a subtle crackling of magic interwoven with a tangible sense of danger. Beyla's eyes darted around the misty expanse, her heart pounding in her chest. Her hands instinctively tightened on her weapon. “Stay alert,” she hissed, her voice barely more than a breath. “Something is coming.”

Elijah and Marcel stood poised, weapons ready, their expressions mirroring Beyla's unease. Suddenly, a swirling vortex of energy materialized before them, and from it stepped the Warlock Katarina. The portal shimmered ominously behind her, casting an eerie light on her figure. She looked at Elijah with a sweet yet sinister smile. “My my,” she purred, her voice dripping with malevolent charm. “You certainly have grown up.”

Elijah’s eyes widened in shock. “Katarina?” He had only seen her true form a few times, her feline guise more familiar. “What are you doing here?”

Katarina spread her arms wide, her smile deepening. “A little birdie told me a story long ago. I'm simply here to ensure it unfolds as it should. Since you’ve vanquished my other companions, let’s see how you fare against this one…” She stepped aside, and a monstrous demon lumbered out of the portal. Its skin resembled hardened lava, and its talons were like obsidian blades. “Ta ta,” she sang, stepping back into the portal, which sealed with a malevolent snap.

The demon's roar was deafening, its molten mouth glowing fiercely. It lunged toward them, its talons dragging across the ground, tearing apart the earth beneath them. Beyla and Marcel leaped to one side while Elijah darted to the other, his agility rune glowing. He activated his blade, its edge shimmering with Angelic power, and charged at the beast.

Beyla and Marcel followed suit, their weapons flashing. They danced around the demon, dodging its massive swipes and landing strikes wherever they could. The demon roared with each hit, its fury growing.

“We need to find the weak spot!” Beyla shouted, sliding under the demon and slashing its legs.

The demon howled, pivoting to strike her down, but Elijah distracted it with a powerful attack. Its claws lashed out, raking across his chest. Marcel tried to intervene but was thrown aside, unconscious.

“No!” Beyla screamed, rushing to Elijah’s side as the demon turned its attention to the prone Marcel. “Elijah!” She activated his healing rune, but the injuries were too severe. “Hold on, Elijah. You’ll be alright.”

Elijah's breath hitched, blood bubbling from his lips. He grasped Beyla’s hands, his eyes locking onto hers. “De…decide who you are. Don’t…don’t forget…” His voice faded as the light in his eyes dimmed.

“NO!” Beyla's cry was one of pure agony. “Elijah!” The turmoil inside her resolved into a single, unyielding purpose. She stood, her eyes turning pitch black, her light brown hair bleaching white. Shadows coiled around her, responding to her fury. With a primal scream, she charged the demon, her speed unmatched.

Beyla vaulted over the demon, her hands conjuring spears of shadow. She hurled them into its head, the impact staggering the creature. She landed gracefully before Marcel's unconscious form, shadows swirling protectively around them.

The demon swiped at her, but she dissolved into shadows, reappearing atop its shoulders. With a blade of pure shadow, she stabbed its neck repeatedly, dark energy consuming the beast until it exploded in a burst of dark energy.

Marcel groaned, regaining consciousness just in time to witness the explosion. He looked at Beyla—her transformed appearance bewildering him. “Who are you?” he croaked, needing to be sure.

Beyla turned to him, tears in her obsidian eyes. “I am Beyla Nightweaver – the Angel of Shadows.”

--------------------------------------------------

Beyla refused to return to the Shadowhunter stronghold. Cradling Elijah’s lifeless body, she felt the weight of his loss with every step she took. She turned to Marcel, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. “Go back to the stronghold without me,” she instructed, her tone leaving no room for argument. She then sent a fire message to Caspian, summoning him to a familiar clearing in the forest.

When Caspian and Eliana arrived, their grief was palpable. Caspian’s face crumpled as he saw Elijah's lifeless form, a heart-wrenching cry escaping his lips. Eliana stood frozen, her Warlock charm unable to protect her from the raw, agonizing reality. Tears streamed down her cheeks, her body trembling. Despite her magical defenses, the intensity of her sorrow was overwhelming, and like Beyla, she felt the pull of the Shadow Ablation consuming her.

Beyla fell to her knees before them, her hands shaking as she gently laid Elijah’s body at their feet. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, her voice choked with guilt and anguish. She looked up at them, her eyes pleading for forgiveness. “I couldn’t save him. I promise you, I will eradicate every last demon. I swear it.”

Caspian’s fists clenched at his sides, his eyes burning with tears and fury. He wanted to speak, to comfort her, but the words stuck in his throat. Eliana, despite her own heartbreak, reached out a trembling hand towards Beyla but couldn't bring herself to touch her.

Beyla’s resolve hardened as she saw the depth of their sorrow. She knew she couldn’t stay. She couldn’t bear to see the pain in their eyes and feel the weight of her failure every day. With one last, heart-wrenching glance at her friends, she turned and walked away, the shadows trailing behind her as she disappeared into the forest.

Caspian and Eliana were left alone, clutching Elijah’s body and each other, their sobs echoing in the silent clearing. Neither of them noticed the subtle changes in Eliana’s aura, the shadows that seemed to cling to her more tightly as grief transformed her.

Unbeknownst to Beyla, after Marcel reported what had happened, the Shadowhunters devised a plan. They would combine her with the very demons she vowed to destroy, a cruel twist of fate that would shape her destiny and many others in ways she could never have imagined.

--------------------------------------------------

After the Clave deemed Beyla a failed experiment, they demanded Caspian create another, this time with a crucial difference – the new subject had to be young, impressionable, and malleable. Their plan was to mold this new creation into the ultimate weapon they needed. Caspian vehemently refused, his defiance evident in his every word. But when the Clave threatened Eliana, his heart sank, and he knew he had no choice but to comply. The first time, they had offered payment for his spell, but now they wielded the threat to the only family he had left – the last connection to Elijah he would ever have in the world.

Caspian had already lost his son; he couldn't bear the thought of losing his daughter as well.

With a heavy heart, Caspian set to work. He poured over ancient texts and incantations, his hands shaking as he altered the spell. He manipulated the magic so that the new Ablation would be created as an infant. The ritual was grueling, taking every ounce of his will and skill. When it was done, the new Ablation, a tiny, vulnerable baby, emerged from Lake Lyn.

The Clave wasted no time. The infant Ablation was handed over to a Shadowhunter family, tasked with raising the child to eventually defeat Beyla, who had now been branded as evil. Caspian watched, broken and despondent, as they took the child away. The weight of his actions crushed him. He gathered Eliana in his arms, her small frame shaking with fear, and they fled. They found refuge in a remote, hidden place, far from the reach of the Clave and the dark future they had set in motion.

In the days that followed, Caspian dedicated himself to one purpose – keeping Eliana safe. He was determined to protect her from the horrors of their past. Every night, he sat by the fire, haunted by memories of Elijah and the uncertain fate of the infant Ablation. The guilt gnawed at him, but he knew he couldn't face what the future held. He wanted no part in the Clave's twisted plans or the inevitable clash between Beyla and the child he had helped create.

Little did he know, fate had other plans. As the years passed, the Shadowhunters raised the new Ablation, shaping and training the child to fulfill the Clave's designs. Meanwhile, Beyla grew stronger in her power, ready to take on whatever threats would come her way.

--------------------------------------------------

Caspian had spent years living a secluded life, his days filled with routine tasks and the constant vigilance required to keep Eliana safe. His hands were steady as he gathered herbs and ingredients from the forest, his mind focused on the familiar rhythms of nature. The morning sun filtered through the leaves, casting intricate patterns on the forest floor as he moved silently between the trees.

It was on one such day, while reaching for a rare blossom nestled among the ferns, that Caspian's world was irrevocably altered. He sensed a presence before he saw it, a soft rustling of leaves and the unmistakable feeling of being watched. He straightened, turning slowly to face the intruder.

There, standing just a few feet away, was a young man with an air of quiet strength and determination. In that instant, Caspian felt a profound connection. It was as if the young man's gaze had pierced through the walls Caspian had built around his heart, capturing his soul with a single look.

The young man took a tentative step forward, his expression a mix of hope and desperation. “Are you Caspian?” he asked, his voice steady but laced with urgency.

Caspian nodded, unable to find his voice. He felt a strange sense of recognition, even though he had never seen this young man before. It was only when the stranger spoke his name that realization began to dawn.

“My name is Nathaniel,” the young man continued, his voice growing more confident. “I am the Ablation you created.”

Caspian’s heart skipped a beat. Nathaniel. The name echoed in his mind, a reminder of the choice he had made years ago. This was the Ablation he had created, now standing before him as a young man. The weight of his past actions crashed over him like a tidal wave, but he couldn’t turn away.

“What do you need?” Caspian asked, his voice barely more than a whisper.

Nathaniel stepped closer, his eyes never leaving Caspian's. “I’ve been told stories of you, of your power and knowledge. There are things I need to understand, truths I need to uncover. Please, help me.”

Caspian felt a surge of conflicting emotions. He had promised himself he would stay out of the Clave’s affairs, but seeing Nathaniel, seeing the determination and hope in his eyes, he couldn’t refuse. This young man was the embodiment of both his greatest failure and his deepest hope.

With a heavy sigh, Caspian nodded. “Very well, Nathaniel. I will help you.”

--------------------------------------------

As time went on, Caspian and Nathaniel grew close, their bond deepening with every passing day. Nathaniel also formed a strong connection with Eliana, sharing moments of laughter and camaraderie that brought warmth to their secluded life. The feelings between Caspian and Nathaniel grew so profound that they eventually began a relationship together. It wasn’t just the two of them, either. When they were introduced to Elena Baywing, both men found themselves captivated by her. She quickly and willingly became the third member of their relationship, completing their triad with her grace and strength.

Caspian and Nathaniel’s partnership extended beyond their personal lives. They collaborated on creating new Runes and spells, pushing the boundaries of their magical knowledge. One of their most significant achievements was the creation of an Anchor spell for Nathaniel, designed to ground him and prevent the same fate that had befallen Beyla. With the support of his Parabatai, Victoria Baywing, and his Anchor, Barnabas Morgenstern, Nathaniel felt a powerful pull towards Ascension and ultimately became a Gemini.

Together with Eliana, Victoria, Barnabas, and Elena, they formed a tight-knit family of Warlocks and Shadowhunters. Their unity and strength allowed them to face any foe that crossed their path. However, all good things must come to an end. When the Clave discovered that Caspian possessed the ability to negate the immortality of the Ablations he had created, rendering them vulnerable to permanent death, they saw him as a weapon. Caspian, unwilling to be used in such a way, made a heart-wrenching decision.

With tears in his eyes, he bid a tearful farewell to Eliana, Nathaniel, and Elena. Caspian cast a powerful spell upon himself, one that would put him into a deep sleep, only to awaken if Nathaniel were to die a true death. The magical incantation enveloped him, and as he lay down, his breathing slowed, and he drifted into an enchanted slumber.

With Caspian out of reach, the Clave turned their focus to their only remaining weapon against Beyla Nightweaver – Nathaniel himself. To ensure Nathaniel’s compliance, they captured Barnabas and Victoria, holding them hostage. The Shadowhunters launched a ruthless attack to capture them, during which Elena fought valiantly but was ultimately killed.

In a desperate attempt to protect those he loved, Nathaniel sent Eliana into hiding, ensuring the Clave couldn’t get their hands on her. He then set off to fulfill his destiny, despite the burden weighing heavily on his heart. Nathaniel harbored a glimmer of hope – he believed that Beyla could be saved and was determined to try.

---------------------------------------------------

As the years passed, Beyla's reputation among the Downworlders grew to legendary proportions. She became their staunch protector, defending them against both Shadowhunters and Demons. Her acts of bravery and kindness earned her the admiration and gratitude of many, and she was welcomed wherever she went. Beyla’s presence brought a sense of security to those she vowed to protect, her name whispered with reverence and respect.

Despite her efforts to show the Shadowhunters that the blood within her veins was still that of an Angel, they remained unmoved. To them, her union with the Shadows marked her as inherently evil. Time and again, Beyla pleaded her case, trying to prove her intentions and the purity of her heart, but her words fell on deaf ears. The Shadowhunters' judgment was unwavering.

Eventually, Beyla's patience wore thin. If the Shadowhunters were determined to cast her as the villain, she would embrace the role they assigned her. She began to operate by her own set of rules, no longer seeking their approval or understanding. Her resolve to stand alone solidified, and she never allowed anyone to get too close to her again.

Elijah's death had left an indelible mark on her soul. Their bond was one of deep familial love, a connection that transcended friendship. The pain of his loss was a wound that had never fully healed, and she vowed never to let anyone into her heart again. The memories of their sibling-like relationship were both a comfort and a torment, a constant reminder of what she had lost. Beyla was convinced that if she ever allowed herself to care for someone in that way again, the inevitable heartbreak would be too much to bear.

Little did Beyla know that her resolve would be put to the test when a fellow Ablation would eventually enter her life...

--------------------------------

Eliana, left to fend for herself after her father Caspian was placed in a magical slumber, her other father sent her away, and her mother was killed, found herself grappling with solitude. Determined not to be alone, she devised a unique price for her spells and magic: an orphaned child. It wasn't that those seeking her assistance had to orphan a child themselves—the child must have already been without parents. This arrangement led to Eliana amassing a small group of human charges under her care.’

Eliana became a mentor to these children, teaching them the skills that had been passed down to her. She instructed them in the arts of healing, the crafting of explosives, and the creation of poisons. Every piece of non-magical knowledge she possessed, she shared with them, ensuring they could create wonders and horrors alike. The villagers and other Downworlders who heard of Eliana feared her and her cadre of children. Whispers spread about the young ones who could either heal your deepest wounds or end your life with a simple concoction, depending on their whims.

For a time, Eliana believed this would be her life forever—a careful balance of power and protection within her hidden sanctuary. She grew accustomed to the respect and fear she commanded, finding a twisted sense of comfort in the control she maintained over her surroundings and those who sought her aid.

However, her seemingly unshakeable existence was disrupted following the events involving Nathaniel and Beyla…

-----------------------------------------

Nathaniel had tried to get through to Beyla – tried to make her see that he was on her side but she had been burned too many times by Shadowhunters to trust him. He tried to get her to Ascend to a Gemini but she would have nothing over it. Being an Angel of Shadows was who she was and she wasn’t going to change herself for anyone. If it was her choice that would be different but if she was forced to then there would be no way.

Since Nathaniel failed to get her to Ascend, the Clave threatened the lives of Victoria and Barnabas if he didn’t comply and kill Beyla. It tore him apart and broke his heart to do so but he challenged Beyla to a duel and she complied. The battle raged on for a very long time until finally Nathaniel was victorious. If one could call it a victory – it was pointless, Beyla did nothing wrong but he was forced to take her life in order to keep his loved ones safe. He apologized to Beyla as he drove his Blade through her and her last words were a vow that both she and he would get what they deserved, she would make sure of it.

When Nathaniel went to the Clave to retrieve Victoria and Barnabas they refused to release them. Having his precious Parabatai and Anchor in their possession meant that they could always be sure that Nathaniel would comply to their orders. They did allow Nathaniel to reunite with Eliana as a reward, but Victoria would be forced to become an Iron Sister and Barnabas a Silent Brother for as long as Nathaniel was alive.

Now it was only Eliana and Nathaniel left of their family. Never to think it would ever be any different but all of that would change when the Angel of Shadows emerges from their resting place of the Shadow Realm to set a plan in motion to ensure that both she and Nathaniel get exactly what they deserve….

---------------------------------