Summary

Chapter 31 is titled “The Quality of Mercy.” The Shadowhunters move around the villa, putting out fires and helping the injured while taking others into custody. Alec is alone with Shinyun. Alec knows that Magnus trusted Shinyun who then betrayed him, but that Magnus will continue to trust. He knows that Magnus, given a choice, “always chose to be kind” (323). Alec cuts Shinyun free and tells her to go, though he does nothing to help her escape the many Shadowhunters milling around the estate. Aline is clearly unhappy when she learns Alec released Shinyun. Helen worries how they can explain it. Magnus says he is “almost glad” she got away. Magnus wants to be sure none of the other three get into trouble because of Magnus's involvement with the cult. They quickly agree that they saved Magnus, who was the victim about to be...