Episode 15 A Problem Of Memory

Memories are definitely a curse, not a blessing, in this episode.

Simon tortures himself over what he thinks is the memory of draining a mundane.

Clary struggles with the memory of what happened in the Seelie Court and tries to ‘fix’ it.

Most heartbreakingly - Magnus strggles with the memories the Agony Rune stirred up. And is losing.

Alec struggles with watching Magnus slip further into his memories. And finally succeeds in getting Magnus to talk to him about it.

Well, I want to say that Simon has fallen in with a bad crowd.. but they are all vampires so…

I love that, immediately upon waking, Alec is automatically looking for Magnus and worried when he does not find him where he thought he would be.

Oh Magnus, my love! I wish I could banish those awful memories for you!

Magnus - Good morning.

Alec - I’d say the same. But it looks like you haven’t slept.

Magnus - Should I be insulted by that?

Alec - No. I love that face.

This exchange is so adorable. And as someone that has been using the phrase ‘I love that face.’ since the early 2000’s, I LOVE that Alec uses it here.

I love how much Alec is in tune with Magnus - when he is allowing himself to pay attention. I love even more, how much he cares about Magnus.

This morning conversation is so absolutely adorable. They really are so fucking cute together!

I am such a sucker for Soft, Romantic Malec!!

But Alec KNOWS that Magnus is hiding his pain. And it is killing Alec that Magnus won’t talk to him about it.

Magnus, my love! You need to tell Alec about the Agony Rune! He knows something is wrong and he knows you’re not being honest.

Alec - Tell me I’m making the right call. Because,between you and me, I’m just not sure I’m good at this.

Jace - What are you talking about? Look, you were born for this job. Hey, think of it like archery, okay. Just trust yourself. And don’t hesitate. And beyond that, just cross your fingers.

I just love love love the Alec and Jace relationship. I am so so so obsessed with their Pabatai bond.

“You can have feelings for two people at the same time.”

Izzy, this is some wild advice to an AroAce like me. I can’t even comprehend having those kind of feelings for one person. Having them for two people is some fairytale level shit.

Clary, Simon is right. You are hurting everyone by continuing to deny your feeings.

Oh my gods! Poor Sweet Simon! Look at that face!! Alberto is so damn good.

Jace sure is special. And I absolutely adore him and Dom!

Alec - Look, Magnus isn’t exactly in a great place, right now. He hasn’t been sleeping.

Izzy - What’s wrong?

Alec - I don’t know. He says nothing’s wrong, but I can tell he’s not alright.

Izzy - You know, some people find it hard to ask for help. If Magnus is hurting, don’t let him push you away.

I love Izzy telling Alec not to let Magnus push him away and to make him talk. Echoing what Magnus told Alec way back in the first episode of this season out on their balcony.

I also love that Alec just proved what I have been saying about how he is in tune with Magnus.

Clary! For the love of Hecate! This is NOT about you! Girl, come on. Try doing what is right for the other person. Like right now, it’s best for Simon if you stay away from him. In so many ways, she has come a long way. But in others, not so much.

Oh, Sweet Simon! It’s going to be okay! I swear!

Simon has some very sweet fighting moves. And I love this shot of Alberto! Seriously, I could go into photography. But I prefer writing.

Magnus - I appreciate it. But I’m fine.

Alec - No, you’re not. Sorry, but I’m not going to leave until you talk to me. Do you remember when you said ‘When things get crazy, don’t push me away’?

Well played, Alec! Well played!

You can see in Magnus’ face just how much those words affect him. You can see the moment he breaks and realizes he needs to tell Alec what is going on.

I am so happy that Alec does get Magnus to talk to him. And I love that he is showing Magnus that he can lean on him and that Alec is not going to judge him or turn away. With every episode, Malec’s communication skills gets better.

I love that Alec kneels in front of Magnus, how he is completely focused on him and giving him his undivided attention. Another way to show Magnus that he is there for him.

When Magnus is telling Alec about his step-dad, how epic is Harry?!?! The pain in his voice and on his face! The self-loathing! The tears! FUCKING PHENOMENAL!!!!

And Matt’s reactions are perfection! The anger in his voice when Magnus tells Alec that his step-father called him an abomination. The care and understanding in his eyes. The way these two playoff each other, the chemistry, it’s all so insane!

Then there is the moment Alec cradles Magnus’ face in his large hand and tells him - adamantly - ‘There is nothing ugly about you.’ is absolutely EPIC!

And this hug, loaded with support and care and understanding and love, breaks me every single time.

I absolutely hate that Magnus has to come face to face with Valentine so soon, But my love handles it with class.

I love when Magnus does magic. Yes, I have said this before. This shot of him next to his portal is one of the coolest shots I have taken and it is one of my favs.

And I love Alec standing by Magnus’ side as he faces Valentine. Offering his love, support, and solidarity.

This brings us to the home stretch of Season 2. Only 5 more episodes to go. See you next time for Day Of Atonement.