This is a scene that started chewing on me about 15+ years ago, but didn't want to cooperate. It finally decided to do so. What should have been 5 to 6 pages has grown a bit beyond that. So, this will be split into two parts. Here is the first part at 9 pages long, and tonight, I dive into the second part.

Comments, and the such are welcome. Enjoy.

December 21st, 1998:

Just after he landed, Falcon watched his patrol partner for the night come in for a near textbook landing. He smiled, “You certainly are getting the hang of gliding, and landing.”

“Thanks,” Chaos said with a grimace having stumbled slightly due having misjudged the wind. “At least you think I'm making progress.”

“Don't sell yourself short,” the ruddy red gargoyle replied with a grin as he sternly shook at a finger at his clan mate. He had to admit that while his partner wasn't great at making sharp turns yet, he was getting better, and had made quite a bit of progress. “Don't sweat it bro. Sure there might some things you still need to learn, but more than a few of us think you are doing just fine. Granted I know Gadget might be a bit contrary about that, but she'll come around sooner, or later.”

“One can hope,” the green gargoyle said quietly as he shook his head.

“Not to pry, but just what is going on between the two of you?” Falcon asked a shrug. “At times, it comes across that you've been bickering, and fighting with her in private. Other times, the two of you come across as rather defensive, and protective of one another. Almost like you guys get along.”

“I'm not sure how to describe what's going on. Some nights, we get on each other nerves to the point our mutual stubbornness gets the better of us, we get confrontational, and go out of the way to piss off each other. Flaring tempers, and maybe a few flying fists. The old me would have run the other way.” Chaos sat of the ledge of the roof, letting his legs dangle off.

He removed his glasses, and rubbed the sides of his face. “But over the last few weeks, I want to say things have started to cool off a little. Who can really say though? And yes, over the last few months we have been getting protective of each other for reasons I don't understand. Plus at times, I think we've been seeking out each other's company. Granted we aren't sitting next to each other, or anything like that. More akin to wanting to be in the same room. Complicated doesn't even begin to cover it.”

Startled, Falcon's jaw dropped, and hung open. Could things be turning around? He hoped so. If nothing else, he wished the two could at least be neutral towards to each other. But if they were seeking out the company of each other, that meant things might be a little more serious than anybody realized. “Yeah, I can see how that might be the case. Is it possible you might be overthinking things?”

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Chaos threw up his hands. “I don't know. I really don't. To make matters worse, I'm starting to sense another side to her that's trying to come out. I can't really describe it, other than it seems like a softer part of her personality that's lurking in there, and is hesitant about being seen. Part of me wants to coax it out to see what she's really like.”

Blinking hard, Falcon rubbed his chin as mulled this new bit of information over. While he had detected a the uncertainty in his partner's voice, it was hard not to notice a degree of seriousness as well. But, that didn't mean Chaos was truly interested in Gadget. Or did it? He shook his head amid wondering if he was now doing a bit of overthinking. “Wow. I mean, are you sure?”

“I can't say with absolute certainty that's what I'm sensing. Given that we don't like each other, it seems to be outrageous, I know. But I can't shake the feeling that part of me wants to make an attempt to see where things go.” Chaos took, and slowly let out a deep breath. “Given the absurdity of the whole situation, it seems crazy for me to even contemplate that idea. And yet, I want to.”

“You're serious, aren't you?”

“I can't say for sure,” the green gargoyle said quietly. “There's just something about her that I can't put my talon on. There are nights I feel drawn to her. Where I want to get close to her. As delusional as this might sound, there this growing desire of wanting to be liked her. Plus like her in return. To become friends. Though lately, sometimes I dream where the two of us become more than friends.”

Startled, the ruddy red gargoyle didn't know what to say. Wait, is he contemplating chasing after her? I mean, would she even reciprocate such a move? He quickly sat down, and looked down at the ground. Falcon let out a deep breath as he realized something. If she's seeking out his company at times, she might start the chase instead given her personality. He's right, complicated doesn't even begin to cover this. Damn. “Wow, I'm at a loss for words. And dreaming about being more than friends? Are you okay?”

“Truth be told, she isn't like any other girl I have ever known. There are times when she cocks her head, cracks a smile, and the world stops. During the calmer moments, she makes me feel amazing. I'm not sure what to do.”

Falcon turned, and studied him for a couple of minutes. The conversation had taken a turn he been ill prepared for. He wanted to offer advice, but didn't know what sort would even be appropriate. He stood up, and motioned for Chaos to do the same. “I know this isn't helpful, but I'm sure you'll figure something out. And we do need to head back.”

Confused, Chaos got up, and dusted off his pants. “We still have a few hours until sunrise, don't we?”

“We do, but I need to help set up for the tonight's celebration. I don't recall if they wanted your help or not.”

“Wait, what sort of celebration?” Chaos asked as his brain tried to switch gears.

“You know, for Winter Solstice,” Falcon replied with a shrug. “It is the longest night of the year.”

“No, I didn't know,” the green gargoyle protested. Was his partner yanking his chain? “I get that, but what about it? Nobody mentioned anything about it to me.”

Falcon grimaced, and let out a sigh. “We celebrate it with some dancing, games, and various other activities. As for the dance, it's more or less similar to what humans call a formal dance. Either Woodpecker, or myself might have an outfit that should fit you.”

“Hold on, a formal dance? Like a prom?”

“I've heard that term, but don't know what they are. So, maybe? For some, it is way to tend to our mates. Or to care for mates. Or even being to court a mate. Be it ones literal mate, or a fellow clan mate. We don't use, uh, rave music. More along the lines of ballroom music I think it's called.” Falcon smiled, and shook his head. “We can find out more when we get back. But for now, we really do need to get going.”

A moment later, Chaos leapt off the roof to follow his clan mate. As his wings snapped open, and the wind filled them, he was still amazed that such a sensation felt so good, and so natural. Not once had it felt alien to him since the change. A quick shake of his head shook those thoughts aside, and he briefly wondered if Gadget would be willing share but a single dance.

After they got back, Falcon quickly headed downstairs. As he went to follow, Chaos saw Missouri motion for him to join her. “Hey.”

The light purple colored gargoyle smiled. Unlike the younger gargoyle, she had two rows of four small knob like horns running along the top of her head, and no hair. “We have more than enough hands taking care of setup. But for now, time to see if we have some formal wear for you. Before you ask, we typically don't do full tuxes. Well, we skip the jackets that is. They tend to be a bit problematic when wings, and elbow spurs get involved.”

Chaos nodded, and was glad he wouldn't have to wear that jacket. He still had periodic troubles when it came to shirts, even though they were modified when it came to wings. As he followed the older gargoyle, he asked, “So, what do the guys wear then?”

“Short sleeve dress shirt, a tuxedo vest, and the pants. Us girls tend to wear a dress, or gown.” She cracked a smile. “And once you are dressed up, who knows, maybe you'll catch somebody's attention.”

“Yeah, I don't think that's super likely,” he muttered under his breath. Chaos quickly winced. You really need to learn when to bite your tongue, you idiot. Not a wise thing to say around an older member of the clan, more so since she means well.

Missouri's expression hardened for a moment. “You might not like hearing this, but that's the truth. You are going to catch the attention of one your brothers, or sisters that doesn't have a mate. Or one of them will catch your interest. Whether or not it happens at this dance, or at a later time, it will happen.”

Feeling chastised, Chaos let the comment hang in the air for several seconds. His wings, and head drooped down a bit. “Maybe. Part of me is intrigued at notion of finding one to share a relationship with, and yet, part of me recoils at that very idea. I'm not sure I'm ready for love.”

“Not everybody is ready when it happens,” she replied softly upon hearing the loneliness, and self doubt in his voice. Missouri placed her hands on the younger gargoyle's shoulders, and smiled. “I can't imagine the pain you've been through, but you have persevered. I've been watching you grow, and to an extent, mature. I for one, would be thrilled to see you find somebody to share love with. Yes, it might take some time. All I ask is that when the time comes that you consider taking that path. You deserve happiness.”

Chaos bit his lip, and shook his head with a pained expression on his face. “Do I? I wasn't born into your world, or culture. Who in their right mind would consider me? Or even accept my overtures?”

“You might not have hatched alongside the rest of your brothers, and sisters, but you are very much part of this clan.” She wished he wouldn't think this way, and been hoping he had moved on. But she had been wrong, and she felt a wave of rage at the inability to rip out his inner demon, and destroy it. Missouri shook her head to chase those thoughts away.

She quickly glanced up, and down the hallway. Her voice changed as a small part of her rage bubbled to the surface. “Perhaps you were born into human world. I know what I'm about to say sounds harsh, but you are no longer one them. Every night I see more, and more your two sides try to merge. Some nights they work it out, and other nights they fight. But it is time for you to let go of your human past, and embrace the future. It is time for you to become the gargoyle that you truly are.”

“But...”

“You are one. As much as I, or any other member of this clan.” She closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. She smiled, and looked him in the eyes. “It is time to let go of that life. Hold on to, and cherish those memories, but you can no longer let them dictate who, and what you are. I see so much potential being held back because you let it stop you from becoming who you really are. A cunning warrior, a protector, and maybe even a leader of sorts. It is also holding you back from true happiness, and love.”

“I know I sound like a broken record at this point, but I want you to experience all of the joys, and wonders of being one with whomever it might be. The thrill of dancing with them in the sky, or snuggling with them on the ground. To share the excitement, and happiness of being a mate to somebody who takes you to all new heights while you do the same for them. I don't want you to be alone for the rest of your life. When the time comes, spread your wings, and take flight with them.”

Chaos closed his eyes, and felt weary beyond his years. He opened them again, and spread his hands. “Perhaps. But how would I know if she's the right one?”

“When the interest is reciprocated. Sometimes it is subtle, and others, a bit more blatant. Truth be told, when the time comes, you'll now. One will feel a bond starting to form, along with mutual attraction. If she's not interested, she'll let you know. Though I suspect one has already caught your attention. And that you have caught theirs in return. Act on this when you feel the time is right. Not only for yourself, but for her as well.”

“Maybe,” he allowed. She was right though, he thought. Gadget had attracted his attention, and he still didn't know why. Plus it seemed like he had wondered into her sights despite their mutual dislike of one another. Or was it in spite of that? Chaos didn't know, but the notion of being happy, or finding love with somebody, even it if was her, tugged at his heartstrings. “The thing is, I'm not sure if I'm worthy enough. Or if I have what it takes to be a good enough mate for her. Much less if I'm strong enough.”

“You are a lot stronger than you realize,” Missouri replied softly upon his voice nearly crack. He had to be talking about Gadget, she thought. Sure they weren't seeing eye to eye, but it wasn't hard to see that things were starting to deescalate between them. She smiled, “To be honest, because you stand up to her, she sees you as a worthy challenge. One that she intends to win by making sure you are at her side.”

“What?!”

“Now this should be interesting to watch,” the older gargoyle replied with a chuckle. “Yes, I am confident that sooner, or later the two of you will fall in love despite all of the bickering, fussing, and fighting. I've seen enough members of our clan become mates over the last sixty some odd years to know that it will happen to you. It might take some time, but the result will be well worth the wait.”

“Now hold on a minute. What makes you so sure that we can work out our differences?” Chaos protested a little too loudly. “We don't even like each other.”

“And yet, there are signs of a truce being sought. Now that is quite telling in of itself.” Missouri smiled, and gestured for him to follow. “In a ways, the two of you almost remind of Benedick, and Beatrice in an odd way. Well, maybe more like Sam, and Diane.”

“What are you talking about?” Chaos asked feeling vary confused. While he recognized the names, the significance of them eluded him. He quickly followed behind the older gargoyle as she led him into a nearby room. “Seriously, why did you bring them up?”

“I'm sure you'll figure it out in due time,” she answered cryptically. “For now though, we need get your measurements. You need to be presentable for the dance.”

“Aren't you cutting it a little close for that?” He asked reasonably.

“Not at all,” replied Wisconsin. The black haired, teal colored gargoyle smirked at her younger clan mate. “I still have the measurements for your waist, the circumference of the tail, and leg length. So the pants were easy. Now, I know you've built up some of the muscles in your chest, and arms. So, I just need to measure those, and update the records. Odds are I have a vest, and shirt that will fit. Or might only need a few minor alterations.”

Chaos looked back, and forth between the two of them. He grimaced, and shook his head. Could this night get any weirder? He pinched his nose, and let out a sigh. “Just hold on a moment. Are the two of you trying to set me up?”

“No,” Wisconsin answered with a shrug as she held up the measuring tape. “I am trying to make sure you look good. Maybe it will help catch the attention of a certain individual. Or perhaps not. For now though, let's get this out of the way, shall we?”

As he stood there, Chaos briefly wondered if they were referring to Gadget. Did they know something he didn't? Or was he going crazy imaging things? Perhaps he was delusional like she claimed, and this was his brain playing tricks on him?

He knew he shouldn't be thinking this way, but it was hard not to at times. There were nights when it felt like this entire thing was a never ending nightmare he couldn't wake up from. The pain, regrets, and mourning of his old life only made it worse. All of this was turning him into this unhappy creature that was neither human, nor gargoyle.

And yet, here was this girl, even she wasn't really his type of girl, that he felt drawn to. One that made him feel amazing despite all of the fussing, and fighting they had been through. There had to be a way to call a truce, he thought. But would she be willing to do so? And could they even be friendly? Or more than that in the future? He didn't know, and wasn't sure what to do next. Chaos closed his eyes, and let out a quiet sigh.

Wisconsin saw the conflicting emotions play across his face, and shot a look towards her rookery sister. She saw Missouri shake her head. Had her comment struck a nerve? There had been little interaction between herself, and this particular clan member. He did spend a good amount time around others of the rookery of that aligned with his age. Getting back to the task at hand, she finished the measurements, and wrote them down. “Come back in about an hour. I believe with a few minor alterations, I should what we need ready by then.”

“Yeah, uh, thanks,” Chaos said softly as he left to go be alone with his thoughts.

“Ok, sister, what is going on with Chaos? It almost seemed like he was either going to break down, or bolt from the room.” Wisconsin asked sternly as she crossed her arms. She wasn't in the mood for games, especially when it came to younger clan members. “And don't beat around the bush either. Granted I haven't spent much time interacting with him, but I saw a large amount of human mannerisms early on. Now, not so much.”

Missouri grimaced, hoping this question wouldn't come up. But she knew that sooner, or later, it was going to get asked. She peeked her head into the hallway, and seeing nobody else was nearby, closed the door. “Before I say anything on the subject, not a word of this to anybody else. Understand?”

“Yes.”

“Good, and yes, Iowa already knows this. He was raised by humans.” Missouri sat on a nearby stool, took in a deep breath, and slowly released it. She held up a hand to forestall any comments, or questions. “Chaos claims back in March, around the Spring Equinox, that he went from being human to gargoyle. In this case, because somebody did this to him using science. Unfortunately, he doesn't doesn't recall his name because of it. Nor has any evidence, which makes it difficult to take at face value.”

She briefly closed her eyes, and shook her head. Missouri then continued, “Gadget being who she is, doesn't believe him one bit, and the two have been going back and forth on the subject for months. Who knows how many arguments they've had, and I wouldn't be surprised if they came to blows a few times. Over the last few weeks though, one can sense the winds are changing in regards to them. It seems to be bringing them together, instead of keeping them quite distant. As the turbulence begins to settle, the two are starting to seek a truce.”

“Plus allows for the negative feelings to fall away,” Wisconsin replied with a shake of her head. No wonder things had been so strange between the two of them. “And now, the two start to see something in each other, and feelings begin to take hold as they drift closer, and closer.”

“Exactly,” Missouri replied quietly. “At this point, the two are confused about their feelings, and I dare say, budding mutual attraction. One hand, they sense the possibilities, and on the other, they are in complete denial about the whole thing.”

“And we've seen that happen a couple of times,” the teal gargoyle noted as she gathered the needed materials. “While we might not be directly meddle when it comes to potential relationships, I think a small amount might be required in this case.”

“Now hold on sis...”

“I'm not going to say anything,” Wisconsin countered as she waggled a finger. “What I'm going to do is make sure Chaos looks his best for this dance. As to my intentions, I want to make sure that he catches Gadget's eye. I want to see her face drop open in surprise when she gets a look at him! Both deserve a shot at happiness, even if they don't like each other right now. I hope this helps, I truly do. And speaking of help, see if you can find a decent comb for him. We need to make sure his hair isn't too wild. Now, off you go. ”

Missouri could only shake her head as she was shooed out of the room. It had been years since she had seen her rookery sister show this much determination in making sure a fellow clan member was eye catching. It struck her as slightly odd, but quickly put it out of her mind. There was a chance it could help Chaos, and Gadget see each other in a new light.

As she began her work, Wisconsin spied one of the rare tuxedo jackets the clan had gotten its talons on. She picked it up, and noted that while it had already been modified for wings, and elbow spurs. A quick check confirmed the sleeves were long enough, and the shoulders were the right width. But did she have a long sleeve, button down shirt of the right type?

After a few minutes of searching, she found one. It was ready for his wings, but not the elbows. Sure, she might cut it close making the necessary alterations, but that was part of the challenge. If these two were intrigued by each other, then what better way to stir the pot a little? She grinned, and got started on the task at hand.

- -

As he placed the book back on the shelf, Chaos headed upstairs from the clan's library. He had spent the time trying to read, but had found himself reading the same paragraphs several times over without actually reading them. He had hoped it would have provided with a much needed distraction, but it hadn't worked.

He stopped in one of the bathrooms, and looked in the mirror. The green face with a short beak looked back with a dejected look on its face. It was hard not to feel that way at the moment given that his two different natures were fighting. After removing his glasses, he splashed some water on his face, and wished both of them would just shut up.

Looking back at the mirror, he could recall spending weeks trying not flinch at his own reflection. But now, it no longer bothered him in the slightest. When he thought it about, nothing about this body bothered him anymore. The heightened senses, stone sleep, learning how to glide, or even learning how to fight, no longer troubled him. Like it, or not, he had come to grips with his gargoyle state.

Now if he could only organize his thoughts, and feelings in regards to Gadget. It really shouldn't be this difficult he thought. And sure didn't help that one part of his human nature recoiled at the idea of a relationship with a species that hadn't been his own, but another part of said nature was siding with his gargoyle side.

He suspected it would some time to get it all sorted out. As to how long, Chaos didn't have a clue. Sooner would be better than later he thought, but that could bite him in the tail. Why did it have to be so complicated? He shook his head, and dried off his face. Time to get this fitting dealt with.

Wisconsin heard a knock on the door. He had nailed the timing nearly dead on, she thought. “Come in.”

Chaos opened the door, and took a cautious step into the room. He let out a small sigh. “Sorry about earlier, I'm just feeling a bit overwhelmed I guess.”

“I would say more than that. If anything, I should be apologizing to you. I was not fully aware of the difficulties between you, and Gadget. Among other issues,” she replied quietly. She gestured for him to close the door. “All things considered, I hope the two of you can make peace with each other. Granted, that might take some time. As for the dance, maybe this will help open her eyes, and yours to finding a middle ground.”

She placed her hands on shoulders. “I suspect Missouri has most likely already said this, I hope you do find love, and a mate in time. I know the currents might seem rough at the moment, but they will smooth out. When it does, you'll be able to focus on whomever catches your attention. I know you have your doubts, but it is time to let them fall away.” Wisconsin gave a warm smile. “Give her a chance, and give yourself one too.”

“I thought you said you weren't trying to set us up,” Chaos countered with a tight frown.

“Ah, but did I tell you to chase after her?” Wisconsin asked with a raised eye ridge. She saw him pause upon hearing her comment. “All I mentioned was offering a chance to each other. While it might seem minor, but there is a difference. Now whether or not that is accepted, or acted upon is up to the two of you. Same applies to if you two start to court, and pursue one another. I would be lying to say otherwise, but I do hope that's where the currents take you.”

He let out a sigh. Chaos could see some of the wisdom in what she was saying. And she seemed confident in her assessment too. “You seem fairly sure that things will go that way.”

“Much like my rookery sister, I've seen plenty of our clan mates find mates. For some it is love at first sight. For others, it takes some amount of time. But for a few, their first choice might not be interested in them, but then somebody else comes along later.” She shrugged. “I know Gadget can be stubborn, and headstrong. But she is a good warrior. And I can tell she's got a softer side that is hiding. Who knows? Maybe you can coax it out.”

“Does everybody know about that but me?” Chaos blurted out halfway wondering if he was the last one to pick up on that.

This earned a loud laugh from Wisconsin. “So, you see it too. There is hope for the boy!”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“It means you are more observant than most others realize, and that is a useful talent to have as a warrior. I believe you are the first one in your rookery to notice it. You see another part of her that intrigues you beyond what's in front of you. I suspect the inverse is true as well, though I can't say for sure. ” She pointed towards the room divider. “We have delayed long enough. Your clothing for the dance awaits. Now go change so I can make sure everything fits properly.”

Chaos shook his head, and headed behind the divider. He was surprised to see an entire tuxedo, including the jacket. “Wait a moment, earlier you said just a vest, and a short sleeve shirt. Why is there a jacket?”

“As I said earlier, I wanted you to look your best. Now try them on please since the sun will coming up soon. I doubt any alterations are needed, but if I do need to make some minor ones, now is the time.”

He grimaced, and carefully changed. The green gargoyle was happy for the snap straps, zippers, and other modifications that allowed one to deal with their large feet, wings, and tail. Plus elbow spurs in his case. A glance in the full length mirror made him realize he did look good in a tuxedo, despite feeling like a complete phony. And she was right, he was bound to attract some looks, and not just Gadget's he thought. He stepped out, and shrugged. “Here you go.”

“If this doesn't garner some looks, I don't know what will,” she said with a large grin. “The fit looks just right. Might not have to adjust anything, which will be a first. And before you ask, it was sheer dumb luck I had a shirt, and jacket in your size. Can't recall who it was originally for.”

As she went over it with a fine tooth comb, Chaos had to admit it did fit just right. A moment later, he turned to see Missouri return with a smile on her face. He saw her holding something in her left hand, and then it clicked what it was. “Wait, what's with the comb?”

“For you to straighten out your hair. Or at least as much as you reasonably can,” she added with a slight shrug. Missouri handed it over, and crossed her arms. “Normally we don't worry about such things given what the air currents, and gliding around can do to ones hair. But for this dance, don't you want to look your best?”

Various emotions danced around in his head, and he couldn't keep track of them. He studied the comb for a moment, and had to admit that she had a point as well. He had to admit there was a chance, however slim it might be, that he and Gadget could start a journey together. There was also the chance that is might not work either. But he had to try sooner or later, didn't he? “I can see your point. I'll give it a whirl.”

Wisconsin arced an eye ridge in Missouri's direction, and got a shrug in return. She stood in front of Chaos, and smiled. “We believe in you, and think you'll do just fine. Take your time, and don't rush things. Also, don't overthink it either. Trust your instincts, and hers.”

“I'm also going to give you a little advice too,” Missouri said softly as she placed her hands on his shoulders once again. “Let her see you; the real you that is. Not this unhappy one that we see, but the one that is full of life. Along those lines, don't lose your sense of humor.”

“And don't toss aside your sense of sarcasm, or your snarky nature either,” Wisconsin chimed in despite the shocked look she got from her rookery sister. “Don't let them define you either, but they are part of who you really are. I'm sure you'll figure it out, we have faith in you. Though for now, sunrise is nearly upon us.”

“But what about my hair?” Chaos protested as they headed towards the roof.

“You can fix it after you wake up,” Missouri pointed out with a chuckle. He might need some guidance she thought, bu things were starting to look up. And with luck, he would find those smooth air currents. As he stepped on his perch, she smiled. “I do have one small thing to ask of you.”

“What might that be?” he asked hesitantly. Weren't things already complicated enough? More so since after the advice they had given, and now had to consider.

“Seek Gadget out at the dance, and see if she's willing to share a dance with you.” She saw his startled look, and before he could say anything, the sun rose over the horizon.