This episode is all about family, and about being afraid of change or being afraid to let those we care about in. Either way looks like both qualities will be our favorite’s downfalls. Here are my thoughts and highlights from episode 17, “A Dark Reflection.” 

Jonathan and Valentine

Valentine seems to be Jonathan’s anchor seeing that the demonic son can be brought back from his anger by his command. The two are on the hunt to find The Mortal Mirror, and leave warlock bodies in their wake. Jocelyn hid not only The Mortal Cup but The Mortal Mirror. She entrusted a warlock named Elliot who, in death, passed the location of The Mortal Mirror to Dot.

Jonathan takes back his form as Sebastian, and comes back to the scene of the crime in hopes to learn insight about The Mortal Mirror. He fools our favorite shadowhunters into learning just who possesses the map to The Mortal Mirror. However, Clary discovers her own intel about her brother (Jonathan) being an accomplice to Elliot’s death. Sebastian (Jonathan) witnesses the love that his sister has for him when Jace offers to kill Jonathan. Clary requests the understanding of her brother and his role with Valentine rather than sentencing him to death. Jonathan’s desire for family and love of his sister may prove to be his downfall as we have seen his strong need for Clary’s approval and attention throughout season.

The Lightwood Siblings 

Alec and Izzy have their differences when it comes their younger brother, Max.  During a training session, Izzy learns that Max has received his first assignment from The Clave to go into the field. This leads Izzy to go into protective older sister mode and objects to Alec’s choice to allow Max to be a part of the fight.

Izzy continues to test Max’s readiness to be on his own, and becomes more of the motherly counterpart that she never had. After taking some advice from Simon, she decided Max is ready for his assignment. Max however finds himself in trouble when he catches Sebastian searching through Alec’s belongings. He holds a strand of hair that leads him to the discovery of Jonathan.

Magnus Bane

Everyone’s favorite warlock is heading the downworld meetings. Being the voice of reason amongst the downworlders and The Clave, Magnus is a vital role to bringing the downworld together during the war against Valentine. However, Magnus learns that The Soul Sword is in Valentine’s possession and that The Clave lied thanks to Luke’s intel. The news has Magnus wondering if Alec lied to him during dinner and confronts his boyfriend about the lie. Alec’s dishonesty causes Magnus to question and ultimately walk away from their relationship. Magnus has a history of hurt from past relationships due to dishonesty. I hope these two find away to patch things over and never question their intents.