It took Magnus some time to register what Alec meant but needing more time, and when the realization hit, it made his chest ache. "You need to save all of your strength for yourself," he murmured, brushing the hair from Alec's forehead and giving him a careful inspection for any obvious damage. He was dirty thanks to the siege-like conditions inside of the hospital, and the exhaustion was clear in the circle under his eyes. But he was safe, and he didn't seem to be suffering from any major injuries.

Settling back down, he peppered soft kisses over the parts of Alec's face and neck that he could reach without moving. "It seems to be over," he told him, eyes fixed on their joined fingers and the fading black on the back of his own hand. In the heat of battle, he hadn't had time to give much thought to the alliance rune that Alec had been so comfortable with. It was something to discuss later, when they were at home in bed and sleeping for the next few days.