A bonnie moonlit lark

By Trynia Merin

A short story taking place after the Rachel/Hudson piece and during Last Rest Denied

Disclaimer: Gargoyles is owned by Buena Vista/Disney. The only characters that I have come up with are Rachel Vitreum, formerly known as Raina MacLaren. I changed her name so people wouldn't confuse her with the Raina of my KISS fanfiction, but she's a similar character. This is written as fanfic and means no harm to the show. My thanks to Noel Leas, Beth Strong, and Demona May Stevens for their support on this project started and left off three years ago…

 

Darkness was her day now, rather than the blinding sun. A smorgasbord of twinkling lights spread beneath, encrusting towers, spires and blocks in three dimensions. To move in three instead of two was staggering. Not that she wasn't accustomed to the experience, but to actually glide on currents of wind took more getting used to then she could possibly imagine. From the Eerie building they had glided up the length of Manhattan in short hops from one neighborhood to the next.

Despite the fact the city was still a Quarryman hot zone, Hudson had something, or someone important to introduce to her. Although the clan was requested to take all precautions against foolhardy ventures, Goliath deemed it highly important that the Clan train its new members in every skill possible to survive and perform their role as protectors. Delilah, Rachel, and Misty all required training in matters gargoyle, and all had taken to learning quickly. Lexington had picked up tutoring Delilah and her adopted daughter Misty in reading lessons, while Brooklyn trained the females in battle exercises as second in command. Hudson imparted his knowledge of Gargoyle lore and history, reprising his role as Mentor from centuries ago. Between Goliath and Hudson, the three new females added gliding, hand to hand, and stealth to their arsenal of skills required of them as gargoyles and Clan females.

The problem Hudson had pointed out was that there were precious few females other than Demona who had been adults. All of her knowledge was as Goliath's Second, and the Mother of the Clan. Now Hudson as Mentor played a dual role in passing on the knowledge handed down by word of mouth from one rookery to another. He was especially adamant that their customs would not be lost in this new time. Already the Trio knew most of what young gargoyles required, and had enthusiastically tutored Angela in this. Now there were three new students, and Goliath had seen to it that they drilled in all their spare time, teamed with one other clan member during patrols.

"These be dark times," Hudson said.

"And still you're having me fly tonight…" she murmured.

"Goliath had said I must teach ye what ye must know. That we not be prisoners in our own protectorate. To learn the dangers they must face, if they are to be Clan," Hudson said.

Memories flickered of the past weeks since she'd become a gargoyle. How things had forever changed for the Time Lady. How for a period of each day she trained all three females in the knowledge of modern armaments, and the cultures of this time. Delilah and Misty prospered under this other strong female presence. In many ways Elisa became their surrogate mother and older sister. Angela had to admit she was once jealous, but now valued a new bond she was forming with Delilah. In many ways they were Rookery sisters. She missed her siblings on Avalon, and these were welcome female peers.

Derek, AKA Talon, spent more time at the Castle assisting Goliath in patrolling whenever possible. Fang was still a prisoner, all attempts having failed to rehabilitate him. Claw and Maggie spent their evenings with the Manhattan Clan, while some of them ended up visiting in the Labyrinth on patrols.

Raina, now giving herself the name Rachel, felt lost in the shuffle. For the first time she had a family, and yet she was the odd one out. Since she had the accumulated knowledge of many years, she was often a valued advisor. Nevertheless she was a novice in gargoyle ways. While Delilah and Misty took their places alongside the youthful Trio, Ray sometimes felt like it was difficult to find someone to relate to, other than Elisa and Goliath. She and Elisa slowly developed a friendship through virtue of their shared earth heritage, and were soon best of friends. Brooklyn and the others looked to her as an older sister or mother figure, while Goliath saw her as a peer in some ways, but having to prove her place.

Earlier that evening at sunset…

The hard stony skin cracked upon her, together with instant awareness. Ray inhaled, then let out a loud scratching roar as she shook herself free. Her eyes saw crimson dawn, and then she was flexing her double membrane wings and shaking off all the debris that landed around her. Somewhere close Delilah shook off her stone skin followed by Angela. Lexington had already swooped down, while Broadway landed in the courtyard rubbing his stomach. Goliath already stood from his perch on the tallest tower, and waited for the news that this night would bring.

"Ray, you simply must tell me more, about when you were in France," came Angela's voice as she perched beside her.

"What, you're not studying history are you?" Brooklyn asked, shaking off stone as he moved close to Ray. "OR is it a gargirl thing?"

"I'll be happy to fill you in, but you'd be better off asking MacBeth about that," Ray chuckled.

"Well, isn't he, um busy… these days, teaching and all?" Angela asked. "And he um… has a girlfriend…"

"When did THIS happen?" Brooklyn groaned. "Why am I the last to know things like that? Hello, I'm the second in command…"

"That's something you ONLY remind us of every night lately for the past month?" Broadway quipped as he walked past, and Angela took his hand shyly.

"Hey, I need to know these things…" Brooklyn said.

"I'll tell you all about it, if you like," Ray offered.

"Good deal. Been meaning to tell you, you're flight's still a bit rusty. I could give you some personal tips if you'd like," Brooklyn said.

"I'd enjoy that… but first, I'm starving…"

"Ohh, you're welcome to join us at breakfast then," Broadway called up.

"Let's go," Ray said as she dropped down.

"Wait, I thought we could go now," Brooklyn said.

Ray glanced around, wondering where the other clan members were. Delilah moved up, and Brooklyn momentarily glanced to her. "Where is Angela?" she asked.

"Um she um went with Broadway," Brooklyn said. "Where's the kid?"

"Lex has him. He is taking care," said Delilah. "I want to know more about flying… and you say you give personal lessons…"

"Um, well, the more the merrier," he shrugged.

"Why don't you two avail yourselves, I can't do anything without some food," Ray said as she leapt down, and Brooklyn felt a warm flush. This was a nice change of pace, because lately he couldn't see Delilah without Lex.

"C'mon… a couple flights round the tower… let's see what you've learned," he said as he took her claw, and she leapt off, tugging him after her. While Ray welcomed his attentions, there was something about his enthusiastic and obvious approach that was annoying. Yes, it was flattering to be pursued by the second in command, but it was so juvenile, and she felt as if she were holding herself back. No, she wanted something a bit more sometimes. Although he meant well, she had far more experience in some realms than he, and was more than happy to show him what she knew. Yet he sometimes had issues with pride, and she knew that at some point, her advanced age would be a deterrent.

"You're not THAT old," Ray muttered to herself as she stiffly caped her wings and saw the silhouettes of Brooklyn and Delilah circling the high tower. From inside the castle, Elisa entered the courtyard in search of Goliath. Seeing Ray, she turned toward her instead of the tall flight that led to his perch.

"Hey, how's it going?" Elisa asked. "You adjusting okay?"

"Yes Elisa, things are going great… aside from some getting used to," Ray smiled as Elisa gave her a pat on the shoulder. Despite the fact they were both females, the half hug was the best greeting between two women who were in more masculine lines of work. Not QUITE sisters, but more buddies from association.

"I can't imagine what you're going through, but Goliath's been kind of worried… that you're feeling at home, and I just wanted to see if there was anything I could do, as your friend," Elisa said as they walked along.

"You've told my students everything I told you to, and helped me tie up loose ends. And I enjoy the clothes you've brought me to help me feel more… myself," Ray said.

"I know you're an alien, but you're still, or were human, so I know what it's like to feel like a stranger around them," Elisa said. "I've only been a gargoyle briefly, and it can be terrifying and exciting at the same time…"

"Yes, but I'll be one the rest of this regeneration," Ray said.

"Any regrets?" Elisa asked, thrusting her hands into her pockets.

"Few," said Ray slowly. "Although do you sometimes wish…"

"No," Elisa said honestly. "Yes… maybe so… it's pretty complicated…"

"I wish I had a choice between them, and yet…" Ray said slowly. "I for the first time belong somewhere. And that's worth giving up human culture…"

"You don't have to give it all up though," Elisa said as she thumped Ray on the back. "How's things with you and…"

"Good question, I could ask you about Goliath… you've known them longer than me… there's a level of distance they put… and things with well, you know who are sometimes awkward. He means well, but I don't want it to seem like he's playing favorites."

"You care about each other, right?" Elisa said. "I know what it's like to deny something more's there than a complicated and intense friendship, but I know for a fact he's interested in you far more than just… well I know you know it too… but you see how long it took for me… and Goliath to…"

"A wise choice," Ray said. "I wonder half the time if he liked me better as a human? He's polite, but he seems awkward, and I'm trying to keep my distance. That first night we sat together and watched TV, but I thought it was pushing it to ask for more… and well…"

"He misses you," Elisa said as she looked up at Ray. "He wonders if YOU don't like him… or if he's doing something wrong…"

"Say what?" Ray asked.

"You guys were all over each other, I mean you said something about watching TV with him shortly after you guys made up, and then all of a sudden I'm hearing you complain about him never being around…"

"We’re all so busy with this training… and he always vanishes…"

"I've seen you and Brooklyn together. Maybe he thinks that you're avoiding HIM…"

"I don't want to stand in the way of his educating the others," said Ray. "I've kept away out of respect, because I know that it takes time…"

"Bad idea. Don't stay away. I made that mistake. You might not have the time you think you have," Elisa said meaningfully as they strode into the castle, and the kitchen area. Broadway was whipping up French toast, while Angela stirred a pitcher of iced tea. Ray waved as she walked past, but Broadway motioned her over.

"You gotta eat," he said. "Didn'tcha say you were hungry?"

"He's got a point, gal pal," Elisa nudged her. "Eat something. And then think about our chat. I've gotta go talk to the big guy. But don't give up…"

"Thanks," she nodded, and walked over to the kitchen. As she settled into a chair, she almost got run over by Lexington and Misty, who was laughing as he carried her and grabbed a stack of pancakes with strawberry syrup as they rushed by. Goliath and Elisa wandered in together, and took two plates he had fixed. Ray saw him put one before her, when Brooklyn walked in with Delilah. Both of them sat down on the opposite end of the table as Ray, before saying, "Hey where were you going?"

"Brooklyn showed me much flying."

"And he didn't stop for breakfast, he's nuts!" Broadway said. "You'd better take a plate now, or I’m reporting you to Goliath for…"

"I'm the second in command, and she didn't say no," Brooklyn said. "Now can we get something to eat now?"

"Here you go, of course!" Angela said, putting together two plates of breakfast and handing them to him. He yanked out a chair for Delilah, and motioned for her to sit down as he set a plate before her, and sat next to her. She pushed the food around a bit before he glanced meaningfully at her.

"One for you, Ray," Broadway said as he set a plate before her, and then Angela and he sat opposite and to her left, with their own plates. Even though Delilah was starting to eat, Ray prodded at her eggs with a fork, and wondered what had come over her. Then the paring of conversations happened where Brooklyn and Broadway started talking about clan things, and Delilah and Angela began to converse about the latest television programs, and fashion stores they'd seen in their patrols. Ray didn't realize that Brooklyn was talking to her till he nudged her.

"Um, sorry, been out to lunch a bit," she straightened up.

"This seat taken lass?" asked a voice that made her jump a bit, because it was unexpected, and she glanced up as Hudson rested his hand on her shoulder.

"Oh, no of course not…" she said quickly.

"A good evenin' to ye lasses and lads. Ye could've told me that breakfast was on… Bronx as it is figured it out…"

"Well you weren't around… and we didn't wanna disturb your TV program…" said Angela. "I know you love the nightly news… and then there's CSI…"

"Twas cancelled tonight. And I'll be going back after a bite, providing Goliath has not yet called a clan meeting…" Hudson said as he automatically sat next to Ray, and Bronx nudged his nose under his hand. He seized a piece of bacon off the plate Angela set beside him and began to feed the dog gargoyle.

"I'm sure he'd have said something by now, I saw him earlier with Elisa," Ray said, quickly realizing that she might be drawing undue attention sitting there with a nervous feeling in her stomach at his proximity.

"Thank ye," he said as he turned to her. "I was wondering if ye'd pass me the maple syrup… seems the thing with this… and I'd be wondering why ye haven't touched yer food…"

"Um well…"

"Unless ye'd be realizing the same thing," he said as he took the syrup container that was passed to him by Angela, and then set it next to her.

"Orange juice or coffee?" she asked as it was passed around.

"That bitter brew, yes indeed," he nodded as she offered to pour him some, and realized he'd grabbed the bacon plate and dropped more beside what she was starting to work on. He pushed a cup by her, and made sure the sugar was passed while he fixed his brew. While they didn't have coffee in the Middle Ages, Hudson had taken to this 20th century amenity. He'd drunk tea, but preferred ale or wine far more.

"Thanks," she said, glad for the rattling tongues of conversation drowning out her awkward silence.

"Ye need t' keep up yer strength, lass," he said, and realized the comment was directed at her as he began to eat in the same manner as the others, with utensils and all. Ray cut off a small piece and bit into it, only then realizing how hungry she'd been.

"I'd forgotten," she said, and still didn't look right at him, her cheeks were flushed so warm.

"What's wrong Broadway lad? Ye not feeding her enau? She's fair wasting away and tells me she's not hungry," Hudson muttered as Broadway got up and went to check on seconds.

"It's no big deal," Ray blushed.

"Sun may give us its strength in rest, but a warrior moves on his stomach," Hudson said genially as he watched her eat.

"We know, we know," the Trio chorused. Hudson cast them an indignant scowl, taking the remainder of the bread and tossing it down to Bronx with some sausages.

"So, laddie, what's the plan fer today?" Hudson asked.

"Why's everyone looking at me? Goliath's still here," Brooklyn glanced up from where he was talking to Lex, who'd just sat down with Misty to his left.

"I am indeed, but I shall be occupied with assisting Elisa with a case," Goliath said. "And I apologize for not informing you sooner, Brooklyn… but I'll need your help managing things here, as I will be closely involved."

"About time," Angela whispered to Ray, who nodded with a shy blush. "Father's been dragging his tail enough…"

"Here's your chance at leadership hot shot," Broadway teased. "Don't blow it…"

"How involved?" asked Brooklyn. "I mean are you going away a few days? The Quarrymen are pretty rampant…"

"Elisa has a breakthrough in the whereabouts of Dracon's newest plot, and I must tag along…"

"Will you need us to…" Broadway asked, and Angela glanced at him in irritation. Couldn't he take a hint? After all, Goliath and Elisa might WANT to handle things together in light of the deepening of their relationship.

"I'll need all of you patrolling here, whilst I am gone… and Hudson, make certain that the training continues in my absence. Brooklyn, you're in charge… because communication must be kept to minimum," Goliath said. "Ray, Delilah, Misty, you must entrust your studies to the others in the clan, and make certain not to wander off… you still must protect, but no one is to go out alone…"

"Good point. Buddy system," said Brooklyn with a grin at Ray, and she rolled her eyes. "So, experienced clan members with rookies…"

"Aye," Hudson nodded.

"Patrols as usual, and someone left behind to guard the castle, right?" said Brooklyn, glancing at Goliath.

"Exactly. I shall be gone five nights, but I'll contact you on the third… should anything happen, you'll hear from me sooner," Goliath said. "I'm counting on you… you lead in my absence on Avalon, but I am hopeful we won't be gone as long this time…"

"Go on and get outta here, Goliath," he saluted. "I've got it covered."

"My thanks. Stay safe, and stay well," he waved to the clan, and Ray felt a moment of panic.

"All right, you heard it. Patrols as usual… and I'll be pairing you off this time. Those of us who know the drill with those of you who are new…" he said as the others stood around in anticipation.

"You're deciding who's with whom? Anything new here with who's going with who?" Angela broke in. "And is it wise to send all of the new clan sisters out when they are still…"

"Fine, whatever. Two of us will stay behind, or one of us to look after the kid, and Bronx… but we always have three on patrol at least… and what's the movement from the news feed Lex?"

"Quarrymen seen in Queens and Bronx… not you boy, so we'd better have it checked out, according to Elisa," said Lex.

"When will we be free of them?" Angela winced. "It's only getting worse and Father said…"

"Goliath knows. But he's also said that the Clan's gonna have to learn better ways of fighting Q men sooner or later. That means ALL of the clan's gotta know the best tricks to survive on patrol. And with the right teams, nobody going anywhere alone, it should be all right… providing we don’t let those jerks see us…"

"I could've told you that," Broadway whispered to Angela. "You ask me he's throwing his weight around a little too much…"

"Father made him second in command… we have to learn to follow his orders," Angela shrugged. "But that doesn't mean we have to like them all the time…"

"What about the castle, lad?" asked Hudson. "Will ye be wanting me t' stay behind as usual? With the bairn?"

"Not this time Hudson. I'll need your experience out there with the newbies. One team's gonna stay behind and keep an eye on things here… while Bronx guards here with the kid."

"I'm volunteering," Lex said as he held up his hand. " I was wondering if I could stay here with Misty, she's pretty anxious to learn about the computer systems, and well…"

"Sounds good. IF she's learning it okay, then that solves that problem…" Brooklyn nodded, almost too eagerly, Angela thought.

"Take care of her, Lexington," Delilah said as she stroked his cheek, and Brooklyn looked a bit wary.

"Okay that takes care of the coverage here. Angela, Broadway, It's a no brainier you're a team. You cover Queens. Dee and I'll take the part with my moniker. And for Manhattan, Ray… that leaves you with Hudson. Since it's Thursday night, I know you're heading to Jamaica bay…"

"Aye," Hudson nodded, not even protesting, and Ray felt a flush of adrenaline. "If that be amenable to the lass."

"Sure thing… I wouldn't miss this…" she got out, and felt both mingled worry about the way he'd dismissed her, and yet wondered if he was accepting that she had other interests other than sticking with him."

"Okay, and Bronx can stay with Lex and Misty here… since we got it all covered. Report back anything but don't get involved. We don't wanna lose anyone here…" Brooklyn said.

"Lucky you, you get to find out where Hudson goes every Thursday night," Angela teased.

"And Hudson, work on Ray's flying… she's gonna have to stop using a towrope to land…" he said as Ray started to get up. Angrily she shot him a glance that he'd mentioned this before everyone, and opened her mouth.

"Now wait, you know that you've never complained about it before…" Ray protested.

"She's right," Broadway said.

"Excuse me, did I mention you?" Brooklyn snapped at him.

"No… but…"

"Ray, I'm sorry, but you're gonna have to learn how gargoyles really think, and act, and take it seriously," he said firmly. "And it's not meant as an insult, but as advice. You can't keep using your gizmos like a crutch. Not all of us are gonna be there to pull you around… gliding's the most important thing…"

"Brooklyn!" Angela got out. "You know that she's not ready yet!"

"You know I need to do it my way I just can't…" she got out. "What does it MATTER how the heck I do it? My way could be a new source of strategy."

"Ray, please, you need the practice. You're not a human anymore and there's no use in pretending it," Brooklyn said firmly, standing up straight and looking Ray square in the eyes. "I'm just asking you to be able to do the same things we all do. And that means you're getting no more special treatments…"

"When the hell did I ever…" she growled, and then threw up her hand.

"If there's a problem… you need to tell me now," Brooklyn said. "Because…"

""Fine. You're the leader…" Ray muttered, giving him a sour look and folding her arms across her chest. "Guess I got no choice."

"I'd be pleased to help her in whatever she needs," Hudson cut off everyone's various reactions as Ray wanted to sink into the floor. "And I'll remind ye that all of us learn at different times… and it doesnae become a leader t' make note of someone's areas of improvement before the clan… when such things shuild be said in private…"

"He sure told Brooklyn off," Lex whispered to Broadway who was fuming.

"Fine, it's your decision, let's just go already," Ray muttered as she started to walk away.

"Look wait Ray I didn't mean too…" Brooklyn got out as Angela shot him an acid glare, and Lex rolled his eyes.

"That was harsh," Lex said as he glared at Brooklyn.

"I know that you mean well Brooklyn, but you shouldn't have told her like that!" said Angela, angry. "You were almost cruel…"

"I can't play favorites, you know that," Brooklyn said quietly.

"Angela, let's go… some of us have a big area to cover," Broadway said pointedly, and Lex wandered off with Delilah who looked confused.

"What? What did I do?" Brooklyn rolled his eyes. "Since when did everyone get so thin skinned? I'm just doing my job! I'm supposed to give orders… and I'm supposed to help all of us fight better so we can survive!"

"I'll thank ye to be a wee bit more tactful in these realms," Hudson said as he stopped Brooklyn from chasing after Ray.

"She needs to stop being so moody. I mean god… she…" Brooklyn protested.

"Was it necessary t' remind her of the past which she canna change?" Hudson asked. "Perhaps Goliath should be telling ye to not be deviled by the likes of strange winged lasses who have long golden hair… and appear out of nowhere…"

"Give me a break! Look, I know I screwed up but… Goliath agrees with me. She's not the ONLY one who's new at being a gargoyle, I mean Dee and Misty…"

"You are right about this of course, but the method of telling could be far better, lad. That be my point in this. I'll talk to her," Hudson offered and turned, walking quickly after Ray. Huffing, Brooklyn headed off after Delilah who was waiting patiently.

Angry tears crept over Ray's vision, and she yanked off the glasses, throwing them at the wall. Anger filled her and she beat the unyielding stone wall, wanting to rip and strangle him as her eyes flared red. That Brooklyn, although he was being a massive major jerk was right curse him.

"Some gargoyle I make," she mumbled. Had he done it to be deliberately malicious for her rejecting his advances, or was it a simple error in protocol since he was a new second in command? No doubt others were coming after her because she heard footsteps. Angrily she climbed into the window, and considered climbing out on the wall. Couldn't she cry in peace? The last thing she needed was someone to see her tears and think she was being a prima donna.

"Lass, are ye here?" came Hudson's voice.

"Go away, I don't want you to see me like this," she pleaded, cursing that he seemed to be able to tell where she would be."

"Ray, tis time fer patrol… I saw ye this way…" came his insistent call. "Show yerself if ye please… I mean t' have words wi' ye."

"Leave me alone," she mumbled. "Please…"

He rounded the corner as she started to climb out the window to the ledge, and she heard him say, "Lass, isn't the best way out of here…"

"Any way out as long as it's on patrol," she mumbled. "Does it matter?"

"It could, depending on the circumstances," he said. "Are ye goin' t sit there all night and stare at the city from Wyvern?"

"Please Hudson, don't hang around here on my account. You'd be better off taking Bronx to help you patrol instead of me. I'll just slow you down…"

"What sort of talk is that? Brooklyn's orders were to…"

"Fine, whatever… he knows best. He's a real gargoyle…" she said sullenly.

"And what mean ye by that guff?" he asked, folding his arms across his chest as he stood there. "I've never heard such rubbish in me life. If it's yer race ye'd be doubting yer as much gargoyle as any of the rest of us…"

"Hudson just go away… leave me alone… I don't want to talk about this," she choked.

"And how do ye presume t' stop me from not doing so? Yer a member of this clan, and as such yer one of us. And that means that when one of us has a problem, we turn t' the others for aid."

Ray leapt down from the windowsill, and walked past Hudson, sighing deeply. "I guess you're not going to leave it alone huh?"

"I'll stand here as long as it takes for ye to stop this black mood and speak to me about what's REALLY troubling you," Hudson said simply. "Unless you'd prefer your own company. If that be the case, then I'll trouble ye no more. But it will still vex you nonetheless."

"I'm supposed to be a warrior of the Clan, Hudson. I can't afford to look like a big crybaby in front of him…"

"And who says ye are?" Hudson asked, folding his arms across his chest and leaning against the wall to listen to her. She kept her eyes towards the floor, not meeting his gaze as she took another deep breath.

"When it comes to giving orders to me, I'm 500 years old. I'm feeling like a hatchling who doesn't know what they're doing, and he knows it. I do my damnedest to contribute, but if I have my own ideas… I know I have to work hard, and I don't WANT to be treated specially. I hate him for pushing my buttons Rassilon curse him! He's doing it on purpose just to get me to work harder. So how can he have the GALL to say in front of everyone that I get no special treatment when he's been trying to get me to date him? How can he use my personal business and past over my head just to push me like that! I'm beyond such juvenile games!"

"The mantle of leadership's still new round about his shoulders. 'Tis nothing personal, though it may sound like it…" Hudson said as he caught hold of her shoulder as she turned away.

"I'm supposed to be strong, and mature about this… and I just want to choke him… I know it's hard, but…"

"Give yerself a break, as they say," Hudson said kindly as he urged her to step down, reaching his hand out. "Now won't ye come back in and we'll start our patrol for the night…"

"Fine, better than sitting out here crying my eyes out," she muttered and took his hand. He helped her down and she turned away, wings caped around as she walked before him. Still she didn’t' want him to see her tears, because she didn't want some pity of any sort. But her feet felt like leaden weights and Hudson's claws setting on her shoulders made her steely reserve melt.

"Why don't ye turn around and look at me when I’m speaking to ye lass? Is something the matter? Are ye ill? Ye've been so silent the last few nights... I was beginning to wonder…" Hudson got out, and ray turned around, brushing tears out of her eyes as he held out his arms to her. Against her sense of pride and fear she went to him, and let herself cry on his shoulder.

"I should be able to do this… I didn't realize…"

"There nau, dinna take on so… ye shuildnae shut us out… especially not me, we could always speak of matters before," Hudson's soft voice came, and she didn't care if it was out of romantic attraction, friendship or clan loyalty that he was doing this. It felt so good to be held, and he pulled her close in his arms to stroke her back and her hair gently.

"I thought you were mad with me, avoiding me… I was just giving you space…"

"Eh, what's that?" he asked. "I thought ye were angry wi' me, lass… avoiding me at all costs… have I done something t' make ye cross? If I did so, 'twas only my warrior's nature…"

"No I mean yes, I mean… heck…"

"Ye've not have sought my advice nor company as of late?" he asked, genuinely concerned. "Or do ye favor another… for if that be so, please tell me now…"

"Hudson am I supposed to favor another? I thought you maybe didn't want… I mean maybe I've been avoiding you because I'm confused. I mean, what IS the gargoyle custom about this?"

"Perhaps yer anger towards Brooklyn may be signs of something deeper? How is it ye feel around him?"

"He drives me crazy. I never know what he wants from me. One moment we're just having a good time like I'm one of the guys, and it's fine. The next, he's hitting on me, when he wants to give me help, and I don't know what to think. And then if I turn him down because he's driving me nuts, he sulks and ends up ignoring me completely as if I'm beneath his contempt. I'm not stupid and I don't need him trying to 'trick' me into being with him in a romantic way. He should just come right out and say what he wants… if he wants to spend time with Delilah I don't care."

"And are ye at fault for his bad behavior? I think not," Hudson shook his head.

"I know you're going to probably tell me it's cause he's not seen a whole lot of female gargoyles, and he's probably 'sampling the merchandise'. I don't mind flirting, and I don't mind him flirting or being with Delilah over me. But he's getting downright insulting at times."

"And do ye wish to be with him in that way?" Hudson asked.

"Not really. Not when it should be clear that I’m not seriously interested in taking things any further. . I like him, but I don't even know if I do in THAT way… not when… not when I'm interested in someone else and it's PAINFULLY obvious."

"Have ye told him this lass?" Hudson asked, with an undecipherable expression troubling him. Was he angry with her, for allowing this to happen? Was she supposed to know another bit of gargoyle social lore? Was she missing some custom that hadn't crossed her mind?"

"I don't wish to hurt or insult him," she mumbled.

"Not if ye dinna wish his favors," Hudson said honestly.

Ray blinked and shook her head in confusion, "I thought it was a custom for a gargoyle male to have the chance to announce his intentions to all eligible females…"

Relief came over Hudson's face, and he gave a wry smile. "Shame on me for forgetting to tell ye that ye can say no to any male who's seeking ye. Unless ye'd rather another pursue ye. I am a bit advanced in years, but all males that aren't pairbonded are eligible… fer the pursuing… I'm past the time of mourning and it's nae uncommon for a gargoyle to take another mate if his has perished…"

"So… you're not mad at me… and I thought you were, and you were thinking I was interested in another male?" she asked with a dazed look. "And you really weren't angry with me, you thought I was deliberately avoiding you… I was thinking maybe since it's only so soon after I changed… and um… we had um…"

"Best to put the past behind us, lass," he said as he fingered her soft hair and pushed it out of her face. "And start anew. Yer a gargoyle now, and that's what I'd be thinking."

"Is that why Brooklyn assigned us to work together?" she asked. "Some sort of gargoyle fix me up?"

"Call it what ye will, I'm not objecting t' the assignment … and another custom is for a leader to see how potential mates will patrol together."

"It's not considered a distraction for a mate to go on a patrol with another, is it?" she asked.

"Goliath and his angel love did many a time," Hudson said. "Whilst I was Leader. Brooklyn was doing what came naturally."

"There's a lot of things I have to get used to," she whispered. "You'd think after 500 years of observing alien civilizations I'd know how to adapt to yours…"

"It would please me greatly t' make ye feel as welcome as ye wish. Because of my intentions," he answered.

As she felt his arms holding her even tighter, she felt his tail slipping around her leg to intertwine with hers. He brushed her browridge gently against his, and she felt herself wondering why she'd been so silly to doubt that there was indeed something between them, and it was partly her fault for not showing interest.

"Now that's a lot clearer than this running around," Ray said with a smile. "No hassles, no misunderstandings."

"Aye, fer all of us," he answered. Ray felt shy for a moment, and then lay her head on his shoulder. She was surprised and yet not to feel his wings open and fold around both of them, and that assured her of the intimacy of his hug. Only gargoyles of interest beyond friendship did this, or to comfort the young when they were sad.

"There you are… Brooklyn's been wondering if you're ever gonna…" panted Lex as he rounded the corner. "Whoops, sorry…"

"Don't ye have some lessons t' show the wee bairn, lad?" Hudson asked gruffly, not releasing his grasp on Ray. Lexington backed away with an apologetic grimace.

"Sorry… uh Ray… uh… Brooklyn wanted… never mind…"

"He'll tell us to our faces then, if it be so urgent. T'were about t' be leaving anyways," Hudson said as he released Ray and took her hand to lead her after him past Lexington. The smaller gargoyle shook his head and let slip a grin. Brooklyn was going to have more than he ever bargained for in this Cavorting.

"There you are Ray," said Brooklyn as she strode out, walking close to Hudson. "Get moving. Night's not getting any shorter… Angela and Broadway've already started… I wanted to make sure that…"

"We were about to leave anyway," Hudson said pointedly as he leapt up on the nearest crennelation, and Ray hopped up next to him. "Anything else ye neglected t' mention, lad?"

"Nothing, just to remind you that even though we know you're going on your Thursday haunt, don't forget to keep your eyes pealed for Q men…" Brooklyn answered, not bothering to question Hudson's curtness.

"I thank ye lad. Anything else?"

"Make sure you stay with Hudson, Ray," said Brooklyn. "No fancy stuff, no fighting, just report back on whatever you see. And if you get caught before dawn, make sure you have a safe place to sleep…"

"Yes Brooklyn," Ray said with a nod. "I'll stick close to him, you don't have to worry about that… you be careful with Delilah…"

"Sure thing. You too," Brooklyn said with a nod as he turned to Delilah, and all four gargoyles leapt off, one after the other. He had said those reminders for her benefit, and she for one was glad she was the second to leap, followed by Brooklyn, and then Delilah.

In broad circles they passed around the castle, and then spiraled down towards the city. Hudson kept an easy pace while Brooklyn streaked past, with Delilah easily keeping up with him. Ray struggled to keep her wings extended, and not stiffen up. Hudson saw both distant figures circlign back, and the sound of laughter as they crossed within inches.

Another swoosh slashed past the duo as they saw Brooklyn catch hold of Delilah. They twisted and turned, his hands on her hips before he released her. Then they spiraled out of view to break apart as they winged out over the city that was his namesake. "Show off," Ray mumbled. "Figures a cloned gargoyle who's only two years old flies better than me."

"Relax yer wings and let the wind take ye," Hudson interrupted. "Dinnae try t' be fancy. Just watch and do what ye see me do… try t' follow in my path… fer now…"

"How do you know which current to take?" Ray asked, as an updraft thrust up between them.

"Tis instinct, but for ye, feel the winds on yer face, and the temperature," Hudson said as if were the simplest thing. "And just glide!"

"Yikes!" she shrieked as she hit a cold pocket of air, and failed to compensate as she pitched forwards. Hudson drifted after her and caught hold of her arm gently to guide her.

"I'm right here lass, no need t' fear," he said reassuringly. "Just let yerself be carried along wi' the winds, and move your cheek t' the direction y' wish t' go… if ye wish to go straight keep yer head up and yer body like this. If ye wish t' swoop, keep your head doon, and angle y' wings like this…"

"That's too easy," Ray laughed.

"If ye be thinking about it too much, tis far harder," Hudson laughed. "Tis a gargoyle's love t' glide as free and fast as the wind… and use it as an ally…"

"Hey, wait for me!" Ray shouted as he outstripped her and she followed after him in a fear that she'd be left behind. Then she realized he banked towards a nearby skyscraper with a narrow ledge around it. The Trump Tower, with a flat roof in amber and gold siding. Ray gasped at the currents, circling around after Hudson who shouted to her.

"Let's bide here a time t' get our bearings… I'll land first, ye follow…"

"Now wait I…" she gasped as she saw the angle of his wings and his body posture, pulling the webs in slightly to drop. His tail conterbalanced as he landed on both powerful legs, his wings tilting up for a mere minute before folding behind him. Ray memorized the series of movements, copying them all till she sailed over him, and instead of dropping, a gust of wind almost blew her away.

Hudson's hand reached out and grabbed her vest, pulling her down towards him before she was swept off the top. "Fold yer wings… and let go…" he said with a laugh, and she did so, collapsing close agianst him.

"This is going to be a long night," she muttered.

"All the better fr' the pair o' us, I'd be thinking," Hudson said, with a mischevious look. He pulled her towards him in a firm hug brushing his browridge against hers. Fealizing that they were indeed alone, Ray folded her wings around him stiffly. He nodded to encourage her, folding his own wings overtop in that double embrace they shared before, locking them together.

"This must be where we were before… we were interrupted," she chuckled awkwardly, loving the sensation of his body pressed to hers.

"That was the idea, lass," Hudson murmured. She kissed his shoulder and let him rock her, and then felt his claw lift her chin as he held her out so he could look in her face. Their tails intertwined more intimately, and she felt his hand grip hers and lifted her other hand to rest on his cheek An awkward and clumsy kiss touched her lips for a second and his whiskers tickled her cheeks. In all ways but this he knew what he was doing. Ray sensed he wouldn't try this with anyone but someone with whom he wanted to share a relationship resembling Goliath and Elisa's.

Ray dropped her astonishment and leaned up to accept his kiss. She felt him pull back and caress her cheek, a question in his eyes, as there were no spoken words between them. Even after they parted, his face held an obvious question. "Did I fail t' do it right lass? After all tis a human custom… but one that seems best for such circumstances."

"Absolutely," she nodded, hugging him tightly. Ray leaned close and kissed him back, wanting to deepen it, but realizing that he seemed awkward and unsure. So she simply kept it a lip touch for just a few seconds He wanted her that was clear, and yet why had she doubted it? Yet why was she holding back her impulse to leap on him and kiss him hard and deeply as if he were a human? Somehow it seemed more appropriate to savor getting used to him. After all gargoyles didn't kiss as humans did, and maybe he'd think she missed her former life if she made the kiss too human. Absurd though it was, he was more of a traditional sort. Besides there might be something as equally intimate and just as rewarding that he be able to show her.

"Now, shall we patrol, before we're underfoot of the others?" Hudson suggested as he closed his hand around hers, and stepped back. His wings released her from their embrace, and she blushed at the implication of what he'd just said.