I know that I should have gotten this out yesterday, but I only had time to put the two stories I did before leaving for the family dinner. Besides I had to do a quick read through to make sure I worked out as many bugs as I could.

Oh and Wanderer? What better revenge on Thailog then for Demona to accept it and change her ways to fight for her way home? Plus Demona really wants to stop her own heartaches, she see that going down the road of ignoring Elisa's needs would take her life as it has always been – hurting and alone. So for once she was going to go with her heart rather than her head and annoyance. Should have put that into the story, huh. Well she and Elisa discussed it in this chapter a little more deeply.

I hope that everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Miracles I: Thanksgiving

All the characters appearing in Gargoyles and Gargoyles: The Goliath Chronicles are copyright Buena Vista Television/The Walt Disney Company.
No infringement of these copyrights is intended, and is not authorized by the copyright holder.
All original characters are the property of Bonnie_S. (a.k.a. Shona of Wyvern).

spirit link - a link between two beings who's souls are linked, normally it cannot be heard by any other.

~ telepathic conversation ~

Instead of staying awake throughout the day, as they had been doing, the entire Manhattan Clan had gone into stone sleep with Goliath and Elisa. Each of them knew that the long wait for the sun to set would be unbearable – so they all agreed to rest as their kind had for seemingly always rather than spend the day wondering and dreading the coming sunset.

Sunset brought the normal gargoyle awakening - yet, this was one time that meant everything to this Clan and all connected to them. One after another, the gargoyles shredded their stone skin and roared to life. All had a single thought on their minds as they rubbed the sleep from their eyes - did Elisa make it?

Hudson grabbed Bronx and took to the winds with the others rather than climb the stairs to their leader's turret high above them all. However, long before the group could see with their eagle sharp eyesight, they heard the sound of their other friends cheering and clapping announced the news. Elisa Wyvern (nee Maza) was very much alive, and as healthy as she had been the previous night – before she took the altered chemotherapy.

As the rest of the Clan landed, Goliath released his mate from the arms that had held her tight all that day. Angela clutched her second human mother tight, as tears streamed down both of their faces. In fact there wasn't a single dry eye in that family. The holidays were going to be all the brighter that year – for all of them.

After some laughter and some talking the group headed down to celebrate. Elisa remained close to her mate's side through the entire walk. Goliath smiled and cloaked her shoulders with his wing. He knew that the holidays that year were going to be extra special for his new mate. They would be the first they would be celebrating as mates … as husband and wife.

Though she no long held any blood ties to Peter and Diane Maza, Elisa would always see them as her parents and they would always hold her in their hearts as their daughter. That made them a part of the Clan and the gargoyles a part of their family. A first in the history of both sides, even to Hudson's knowledge.

Yet, Elisa was not yet at one hundred percent – though she hid it well from the others, Goliath knew it. The choices of their hearts coupled with their shared stone sleep had opened them one to the other. Both could sense all about the other … right down to thoughts.

The nagging need to rest that her body was urging from her quickly worried the lavender gargoyle. He knew that she was trying to show how much better she felt, but it was a toll on her body he felt she didn't need. Elisa, are you certain about joining this party? I can feel that you are still so weak from all of this.

Luckily the pair were again straggling far behind the rest of the group, because Elisa's eye grew wide as she whispered over to Goliath, "how did you do that?"

When we became mates we bonded ourselves to each other for our lifetimes, and bonded our souls to each other – however, I think that they were bonded so before our rite. I have picked up on your thoughts before, but have been careful to block that since I first did so, to respect your privacy. Elisa I believe that one lifetime that we shared before this one we were mated, because our souls were bonded before we ever became mates in this life.

Elisa and Goliath began to continue walking down the stairs. Goliath, can you show me whether or not you can hear my thoughts now? Like giving me some sort of signal.

"What kind of signal would you like my mate?" He whispered into her ear with his spoken voice, bringing a smile to her face.

That was good enough. So, when I 'felt' you outside on my balcony that night when I came so close to kissing Jason, it wasn't just my imagination? God, I felt so horrible … like I was cheating on you … but, I didn't know if you could ever feel that way towards me, after all I'm human. Elisa gazed at the stairs under their feet. By now the others had left the two far behind – the humans thinking that Elisa needed to take it slow, while all of the gargoyles knew that she and Goliath were having a private conversation.

It felt so good to speak to his lady knowing that no other could hear their exchange, so he continued to speak to Elisa with his spirit voice. You could sense our tie that far back? I had no idea.

They sat on the stairs, knowing that this was a talk that could not wait until later. I brushed it off as my imagination team up with my guilt to make me see just how much I wanted to be with you – even then I knew I loved you above any other male. Goliath, when did you first realized you loved me as a female and not a friend?

Do you remember when we first encountered MacBeth, how you went against my orders and found our Clan a safe place to rest during the day? You stood up against my anger and made me see that wherever my Clan was would always be my home. You have never been worried about whether your decisions or words would displease me – you have only been sincere. That was what made me fall in love with you, because that was what I once thought I saw in Demona … long ago. It was that night I knew with no doubt in my mind that you had become a female and was no longer only my dearest friend.

Elisa smiled at him as she rested her head on his shoulder. I always assumed that it was the night Puck turned me into a gargoyle for those few hours.

Goliath lightly brushed a tendril of her hair from her eyes and tucked it behind her ear. That night only sealed my feelings to stone. I love you Elisa Wyvern. And what of you? When did you see me as more than a friend?

Faster than you did it seems. Remember that second night … when you let those three punks have it? Then, but gliding beside you on my own wings did give me some ideas. That made them both chuckle. Did you ever think that we would be able to speak to one another like this – with our minds?

Goliath encouraged Elisa to sit on his lap. Honestly no. I love you with all that is within me, my Elisa. But I thought that our differences would have held us from that bonding. It would seem that I was very wrong.

To say the least. I love you more, Big Guy. Don't you see? We're not so different anymore. After all, I am a gargoyle by blood now. Maybe that's enough to revive the spirit bond we may have had once upon a time. I suspect that we would have linked together anyway, that you're right about our past. Thailog would be in a rage if he knew about all of this!

Goliath gently rested a claw on his mate's shoulder, his heart swelling with pride for this female he had claimed as his own. As do I, my mate. You are the part of me I always knew was missing, but never thought I would find. You, my Elisa, have made our Clan whole once again - and have even return Demona to our family.

That was Angela's doing, my only love. Demona just needed a way to give herself the forgiveness that you and the others would've given freely - but she felt she did not deserve. By accepting our mating and saving me, she hopes to finally be free of the pain the past thousand years has burdened her with. Strange how I can feel her feelings so clear. Elisa wondered just what had happened to her and how far it was going to go.

Goliath smiled down on his mate as she curled into his wings. He understood it well. She has not only saved and accepted you as my new mate, my Elisa. Demona has counted you as a pouch sister of the deepest of heart. Her giving you what creates blood was as good as her sharing her blood - one half of a blood bind. You can read her, but she cannot read you in turn. Do you understand?

I think so. It explains why she scared of seeing me. She thinks that I'll reject her and send her away as your mate. But, I am not the Clan's leader.

Goliath's face turned serious for the first time that night.

Elisa, you may not be the Clan's leader but you are my mate. You have as much say and responsibility to our Clan as I do. You can tell one of us to go or stay as I can, but I can over-rule your decision - if I so see it is fitting to do so.

This is going to take a lot of getting used to, Big Guy. I just thought that I was going to be with you forever. Now I have seemingly become 'Clan Mother' as well. Elisa chuckled as she rested her tired head against his chest. She was still weak, but another stone sleep would cure her of that.

Goliath sighed with a wary smile on his face. Elisa, that is your place in the Clan now. It is called 'Clan Mother'. And that you have been to this Clan since we first woke years ago. Is it so bad that you now legally hold the title you have filled so very well since the night we met?

No, but you could've told me about that part. Still, we doubted that I would live to see the next sunset. All I care about is that our Clan is whole again and we are one. Elisa softly kissed Goliath on the lips, as he gently rubbed the tips of his claws up and down her back.

He looked down into her dark brown eyes and wiped the happy tears that his mate and true love could not hold back any longer. He knew with no doubt that she was meant to be his love and mate, and was thankful to the Goddess to have this wonderful female in his life. Now and forever, my Elisa - my mate.

So when do we finish what we started. Angela and Demona filled me in on all I almost missed. And let me just say, based solely on the smirks Demona would not elaborate on in front of Angela, I am most certainly looking forward to the rest of our mating ritual. Elisa busted out in happy laughter as her mate blushed a dark shade of purple. It was certain that she and Demona would have to exchange notes later on – if Goliath's former mate didn't give his current mate pointers before hand.

A few more moments alone, and they continued to the celebration. As they made it to the main courtyard, they realized that the others had been patiently waiting for them – turning both of their faces into lovely shades of embarrassment. Then they all noticed when Demona emerged from the heart of the castle with a shaken look on her face.

At first no one understood what was happening. But Elisa quickly summed up the facts, with the training she got as a cop. Demona's appearance wasn't as haggard as it normally got when she had little sleep. She wasn't with the rest of the group to greet her and Goliath after the sunset. And the former detective spied a few stray stone fragments that still clung to the azure gargoyle's fiery red hair. "Sis, did you go into stone sleep? I thought that you became human at daybreak."

Elisa sensed that Demona did not enjoy the feeling of being so prone and open – at least not when the feeling wasn't mutual. Elisa was determined to make this work out – so that the Clan would be whole, and Demona would not be alone again. The Clan Mother nodded at Demona with a warm, soft smile.

Goliath knew full well what Elisa was doing, and rubbed his mate's arms in response. He agreed with her decision to bring Demona back into their Clan. It was time that all of what had once been the Wyvern Clan were together. Goliath wasn't going to overturn Elisa's choice this time.

Demona's voice betrayed the tears that wanted to fall from her startled eyes. "I can't explain it. All that I know for certain is that Elisa is right. I went into stone sleep!"

As if that had been the cue he had been waiting for, Puck popped out of nowhere – wearing one of his proud smiles on his face. "So how did ya like my little gift, Demona? Was it refreshing?"

"Exactly what is this 'gift' that you have given my big sister, Puck?" Elisa eyed the Fae warily.

Demona noticed how her one time rival and enemy hadn't indicated her by name, but by the title of 'big sister'. That made the old gargress nervous – more than she had been at first. It couldn't be that easy to get her home and Clan back. This puny human wouldn't forgive her that quickly, would she? Goliath would see the idiocy of his mate's choice. He would cast Demona out of the Clan by their laws as the betrayer and murderer that she was … wouldn't he?

"Well, since Demona is still a free agent member of this Clan, and hasn't been banished or the like … I gave her stone choice as well." Puck crossed his legs as he rested his head on his hand whose arm was settled on one of his knees.

"So, what exactly does that mean?" Demona snapped.

She didn't feel like playing games, her new uncertain place in the world had frayed her nerves to mere fibers. And Elisa's words and seemingly eased stance around Goliath's former mate had not made this time any easier for Demona.

Inside, she still hated humans. If it weren't for their cruel ways back in her youth, Demona would not have betrayed all she had loved so dearly. She wouldn't have been alone and hunted, even among the other Clans she had made her own.

But, then she saw all that would've been lost. Gargoyles would have become a memory if it weren't for her rage. It would take a miracle beyond all she had become a part of for her to release all the anger and hate from her heart and start anew.

"Well ... no one in this Clan has to go into stone sleep. I saw how the others  - and even you, Goliath - enjoyed staying up all day. So, they can now choose to do so - with either form they prefer (human or gargoyle). And if they want to stone sleep or human sleep is also up to them, even in the middle of the night." Puck calmly explained - a big job for this particular Fae. Maybe being Owen for so long has taught the trickster a thing or two about respecting all.

"Oh ..." Demona started and Elisa finished, "... wow!"

The sent all of them into roaring laughter, including Goliath. Melody smiled brightly when Elisa caught sight of the woman. "Time to get the tests over with."

"Oh great, I get to become a medical pin cushion once again! Can't I have a little fun first?" Elisa groaned.

Melody shook her head, to which Elisa overly drooped her shoulders and lowered her head in defeat. Demona had to chuckled at the sight. When Elisa flashed her 'got ya that time, sis' smile, Demona could see that had been Elisa's goal. Could the Clan Mother's old enemy dare to hope that she once again had a place she could call her home?

Goliath's silent nod only added onto Demona's weary hope. Maybe things had come full circle at last. She had lost her home and Clan because of her hate - in due time, releasing it seemed to have returned what she lost. She just smiled with real hope for the first time in centuries.

"Before they're done and we party, want to take that flight over the city, Ann?" Brooklyn winked at Ann. The pair had quickly become friends since Elisa introduced the little girl to the Clan.

"Can I Elisa? Please could Brooklyn take me gliding, Goliath?" Ann's wide open eyes and proper use of the term 'gliding' instead of the common misconception 'flying' made the choice for the Clan leader.

"I think that the city can due with no patrols this night - and we all have much to celebrate. Brooklyn, take good care of this girl. We owe you and your mother much, Ann. Have a nice glide."

Elisa smiled easily as the excited little girl cheered and jumped into the red gargoyle's arms, and took off to see the city in a whole new perspective. Ann had gotten over her fear of the Clan and heights fast. Of course the Clan members mentioned how very much like Elisa and Melody the girl acted. The child had the kindest disposition, and the heart of a true gargoyle.

Goliath escorted his mate and Melody to the medical center several floors below the Castle. He had been there for Elisa from the first day, and he was determined to remain at her side until his final breath.

An hour later, all of the tests came back negative - Elisa was officially in remission! To everyone's surprise, Fox and David had fully expected the joyful news - and were ready for it. A feast that made any other celebration in the Castle's long history pale in comparison was set and friends were arriving one after another.

"If there was ever a reason to celebrate and party, this is the best of any and all." Fox answered Elisa and Demona's equally questioning looks.

Demona beat Elisa to the punch in retort. "How is it I half expected this from you?"

When Fox looked hurt, everyone couldn't hide their laughter. But, her reaction phrase only made it all the worse. "You only half expected this? Demona, I'm hurt. I thought you knew me better than anyone."

"I was being sarcastic, Foxy!"

Fox stuck out her tongue at her newest friend and ally. "So was I. Even David doesn't know enough about me to expect my every move. Though he does comes the closest."

*********************************************

After the party broke up to where only the inner family of the Manhattan Clan remained, the truth that the mutates had the same choice spell on them spilled out. Diane gave all a hard look. "That means there is no excuse as to any of you missing Thanksgiving. Seven am sharp!"

Demona was seated next to MacBeth. All through the evening she had been wearing a serene smile on her face as she watched her Clan growing stronger. She had no real feelings of romantic love towards him, but she felt that Goliath deserved to be happy – especially after all that she herself had put him through.

That smile fell when she thought that she would have no one with her for the holiday, not that she ever celebrated the human custom – though this year she had plenty of reason too. Still she refused to cry that night, it was a time to be happy – and she could cry later for all that she had rejected before.

Brooklyn patted Demona kindly on the back, "so, how ya like your new family, D..."

"And if you dare call my baby Demona I will spank you! Demona died about twenty-four hours ago, and all that's here with us now is my baby Dominique. Now you may finish your question." Diane smartly snapped at the red gargoyle - who quickly jumped behind Goliath for protection.

The Big Guy stepped to one side without a moment's hesitation and winked at his second-in-command, "I may be brave, but I am certainly not suicidal!"

This sent many of those who had gathered to the floor in tearful laughter. Dominique walked over and hugged this wonderful and ornery human. The ancient gargress could hardly hold back the tears in her eyes and the chuckle in her tight throat. "Mom, will you please stop terrorizing the males. It will be breeding season before you know it, and we do want them to perform at their personal bests."

This earned Dominique a firm swat on her behind from both Diane and Peter Maza. While Elisa was too busy wallowing in her mate's arms, shaking from the laughter that was ripping through her body. "Sis, watch what you say in front of mom and dad. No matter how old you get, they will put you in your place when you need it!"

Diane smiled at the blue-skinned gargress, "just because you are my eldest baby, Dominique Nicole Maza, does not mean you get out of that morning appointment – business or no business. Other companies shut down that day, so can Nightstone Unlimited as well! I mean seven am … understood young lady? Not seven-thirty or ten or noon – seven on the dot. In this family, holidays are for celebrating together. We have a lot to be thankful for, and I expect everyone to be there! That is including you and yours Xanatos! Mostly for your kindness, and certainly for my baby's cure. And if the four of you are not there … on time … and ready to celebrate, well then I will be coming to pick you all up!"

"And trust me you do not want that!" Elisa chuckled all the harder.

"So, everyone had better be there no later than 7 - all stragglers will be turned over to mom for massive nagging as punishment." Peter chuckled as Diane slugged him in the arm.

Talon wiped the happy tears from his eyes, after giving his new sister a big hug. "Too bad we don't have a tape of this! In a few decades, no one is going to believe us!"

"You will have a copy of the security footage first thing in the morning, if that is suitable Talon." Straight-backed Owen dolefully spoke as he entered the room.

Elisa had seen this man everyday for months, and she had learned how to pick up on his microscopic hints of sadness. "What's wrong Owen?"

"We have received another email - it explains how to cure you, the very one that Ann discovered herself. It was meant to be delivered the night following your death, Elisa. Thailog also left a side note that if we did discover the way to cure you it would only be temporary - this time next year we will be suffering through all of this again."

Wonderful Ann stood beside her mother in the doorway, as quick-witted as she was kind hearted. "To bad Elisa's gargoyle genes aren't active. I'd bet anything that Thailog would've never expected Elisa to be cured - much less how it would change her DNA."

"OR he would never see that I would want to become a full-blooded gargress. He used to mock me - saying that I'm too weak to change; that I'm a frightened human and how that would never change! Oh Ann you're terrific! Owen is there any way..." Elisa turned hopeful eyes on the human holding onto Alexander.

Temporarily, Alexander levitated in mid-air as Owen spun - turning himself into Puck. "Well Alex, looks like it's class time! Now most of the time changing a human into a gargoyle is only done successfully by use of a glamour spell. In other words, the change is not real because only the face value of the person changes - inside they remain human."

Alexander cooed and clapped his tiny hands. Puck nodded in response with a satisfied grin on his face. "Correct, this is a very different case indeed. Inside Elisa does have gargoyle blood in her, and she will not mind changing species. So, this will make it all the easier. Follow along with me little one.

Elisa of the Wyvern Clan

We will thwart Thailog's little plan

In human form he's cursed thee ever ill,

Sickness we cannot cure through drink or pill.

So thy form we now change to better suit thy new blood gift,

All the gargoyle pure particles we do sift.

So that a gargoyle become our once human friend,

Alex and Puck thy body doth mend.

Elisa was quickly surrounded by a green light and lifted from the floor two or three feet. Arches lengthened and toes reduced to three. Ears lengthened and fingers quickly numbered four instead of five on each hand. Canines grew into fangs; wings and a tail grew out of her back.

Moments after Puck had begun the spell, Elisa Wyvern the human was replaced with the gargoyle Elisa of the Wyvern Clan. Upon touching the floor again, Elisa jumped into her mate's arms and wrapped him with her wings - just as he did for her in kind.

Both, with the bond their mating and united stone sleep had created, could sense that the change was real and permanent. Each had dreamed of such a day, but neither had dared to hope that it would come true.

Are you happy about how things have come about, my mate? Goliath worried for his only love. If she still wished to be human, he would not force her to change for him.

Elisa could feel his fears and smiled up at the giant lavender gargoyle with all the love she felt for him in her heart. Goliath, this is one of my sweetest dream come true since that night when Puck first showed me what being a real gargoyle is like. I just hope that you're happy with all of this. After all looks like you won't be carrying me around on our glides anymore.

Goliath grinned, she was very much still the beautiful human he had fallen in love with since the moment she had entered his life. Thinking of others rather than herself first. Elisa, you being safe, well, and happy is all that I worry about. You will forever be my beautiful mate - human or gargoyle.

But, you have to admit that seeing me in a gargoyle form again does please you in many, many ways. And before you say a thing, remember how close our bond is now my mate.

Goliath pulled Elisa tightly to him. There would be no secrets between them, and there would be nothing that could build a wall that could tear apart their bond. Yes, you changed into my kind does please me, my dearest love. Only as long as you are pleased as well.

Now that we can finish our mating ceremony the right way. Of course I'm pleased!

Only then did the couple realize that they had been speaking mind to mind for several minutes. To those who didn't yet understand, they were just staring into one another's eyes in happiness. For those who knew better, they knew that the conversation was a private one.

Elisa smiled over at Alexander and Puck, who had returned to his form of Owen. "Thank you both. You don't know..."

"I think that we all have an inkling as to what this means. Of course this means that you are also under the same stone choice spell I cast earlier. So long as they are of this Clan, any gargoyle has that freedom of choice." Owen seemingly spoke blandly as ever. But, Elisa picked up the happiness and pride in his voice.

"Good, all the more hands to make lighter work of setting up the holiday decorations and fixing the dinner." Diane emphatically nodded once, pleased with the thought of it.

"MOM!" both Elisa and Demona cried out in unison. The sound of it ripping roars of laughter from all of them at once.

*********************************************

A week later, all agreed that Elisa and Goliath should go through the mating ceremony once again - now that she was completely well and they had their lives ahead of them. She and Dominique were in her bedroom getting ready. Dominique was plating baby's breath and red sweetheart velvet roses into her sister's dark hair.

Elisa could feel how sad and unnerved Dominique was. When the red haired gargress wondered if she should just leave after the ceremony, Elisa saw that all that her new sister had become could possibly change because of unjustified fear.

"Sissy, please don't leave once Goliath and I go on our mating glide. Someone has to be Clan Mother until we get back, and who would be better than you?"

Instead of making Dominique happy, she became annoyed. "I know many who would be – if I hadn't killed them all!"

"That is quite enough! Badgering and damning yourself is expected in the beginning, but it has been over a thousand years! It's time to make them all proud, not live in fear of what may come. I might be the Clan Mother, but you are our Clan's female elder!" Though Elisa could sense a feeling of hope in Dominique's worn heart, it was small.

After living so long with the pain and guilt for the massacre, and never believing what she was told completely, Dominique just wouldn't allow herself to accept the truth for what it was. She was expecting a catch, because all of her long life everything came with a catch.

Elisa hated that someone could feel such pain for so long without some joy to balance it out. Small wonder they started out as enemies. "I didn't get to thank you for saving my life properly. Sissy, why did you? I meant I always thought that you hated me."

"At first that was very true - I hated you for taking my place in the Clan. For taking my place in my daughter's life. For being the one Goliath chose to replace me with. At first, when Angela told me of your illness, I couldn't wait for you to die. Finally you would be out of the picture for good, and I would have all that belonged to me by right returned in time." Dominique was afraid to go on, fearing what Elisa might be thinking. Elisa simply nodded for the red head to go on, keeping her understandable fears secret.

It felt so good to be able to open her heart again that Dominique went on. For once, she would not have a secret with this sister. "Then Angela slammed onto my balcony in her grief the night you were diagnosed, and I knew just how much you meant to her. I wanted to be the one to kill you - warrior to warrior, the way it should be. You don't deserve to die on you back in a sick bed - neither of us does. The next day I set my people to work on the problem the moment they got there, the purple liquid was developed by the end of the second month. When I came with it to the castle, I realized that you were too weak to survive the massive chemotherapy cocktail needed for the liquid to work. I set to make my peace with you after that. What Angela said last night shocked me the worse, and has given me a needed reality check."

Dominique had to gasp a few times to keep from breaking down to muttering sobs. "She told me that I would always be her mother. That she has three moms - Katherine, you, and Me. Elisa, she told me of how you convinced Goliath to let Angela keep in contact with me! Everything hit me at once in that moment, and I knew that you couldn't die like this! It would hurt our baby girl, and I can't let anything hurt our Angela!"

"That's one reason why I talked Goliath into allowing the visits. Our daughter needs us all." Elisa choked out. The pain, shame, and grief in Dominique hitting her hard - shocking the former human that one could survive for so long with so much pain in their heart.

"I know now that I rejected my place at Goliath's side and him as my mate because I felt that I did not deserve it. Our Clan is gone because of my betrayal - hell the rest were put into eternal stone sleep because of me! I wish that I had never made that pack with the Weird Sisters so long ago! I wish that I was dead now!" Dominique fell to her knees and finally released all of the anguish and heartache she had kept bottled up for so very long.

Elisa wrapped her arms around the sobbing gargress. "I'm glad that you did make that pact."

Dominique bolted upright and out of Elisa's embrace, still tearing eyes blazing with anger. "Why?"

"If you hadn't, who would've been here to convince a young and naive David Xanatos to buy Castle Wyvern and transport it here to New York? Who would've done so much to reawaken what remained of this Clan - our Clan? All things happen for a reason, but none of us can explain why until the circle becomes whole and the picture is revealed." Elisa rested her forehead to Dominique's, both of who were tired from the pain and anguish the one just had to release.

Dominique pulled Elisa tight into her arms, at last feeling as if she had a chance again. "Where did you hear that ... about the circle and things happening for a reason?"

"Great-grandpa Maza. Boy is he going to enjoy _this_ Thanksgiving! Just wait until you meet him; he's one of the best. I know that you'll like him." Then a sudden burst of inspiration hit Elisa. "Come over here a minute."

The pair sat on the bed, and Elisa quickly produced a lethal looking dagger. Seeing the shock and fear in Dominique's eyes, Elisa smiled, "It was a gift from Goliath, to protect myself when he wasn't around. Thankfully I've never had to use it for that reason. Let me see your wrist."

Shakily Dominique reached out her hand to the Clan Mother - wrist exposed. Elisa rested the dagger's blade on the center, before covering both with her own wrist. "Dominique be of Wyvern's Clan by rookery and by right. By blood I bind thee as my true sister and Clansman, now and forever."

Both females winced when the blade sliced open their skin and slightly tore open their veins as Elisa removed the dagger from between them. A moment more saw the bloody dagger resting on Elisa's lap and the females pressing their wrists tightly together. Their bloods mingled and joined them for all time as sisters. A ceremony Elisa and Dominique both knew erased Demona's evils and re-welcomed Dominique as a full member of the Wyvern Clan.

"How'd I know the two of ya would be a needing this?" Hudson chuckled as he walked in with a first aid kit and Angela walking in right after him.

Hudson cared for Dominique's wrist, while Angela wrapped up Elisa's. Once Dominique's wrist was secure till her next stone sleep, Hudson hugged the female close to him. "Welcome home lass." Was all that he said.

Still it was enough to show Dominique that she was to never be alone again. Without asking, she knew what Elisa was feeling. There were hints of joy and pride, of hope and love too. No fear, no hate, not a single negative thought was there for Dominique to feel. All Dominique herself knew was that she was at last home, and had her family back.

*********************************************

Elisa and Goliath again pledged themselves to the other and, once no one stood against them, left for their first mating glide. This time, Elisa was gliding on her own and she was completely well.

When the others began to ask Dominique to join them in a game or some other activity, the once lonely gargress knew that her shameful and lonely past was where it belonged at last - in the past.

"I think that we have a city to protect." To Dominique, the words felt strange coming from her mouth after so very long.

Brooklyn spoke up as the Leader's Second. "But, we don't want to interrupt their glide either."

Dominique smiled at how the red skinned gargoyle was treating her - with trust and without hate or spite. "A compromise then? Lexington, could you check the police reports once? If there is nothing of a major importance, then we all stay home and party till sunrise."

"Alright! I always knew our D was still in ya somewhere!" The green-skinned gargoyle winked and smiled before he rushed off to his computer.

Before heading for home, Diane hugged her new daughter tight, "feeling better, baby?"

"Yes, better than I have in far too long - mom." Dominique at last understood why knowing and being accepted by her parents had been so important to Angela. A single hug or word of encouragement was worth more than all the money in the world.

Nothing came up on the police reports, so the party was on. As Dominique happily played Hudson a game of chess, she noticed the happy couple sneak in and rush for their bedroom - which was soundproofed long before (thankfully). Dominique remembered just how loud that she and their leader once got - it scared all of the humans out of the Castle.

Hudson raised an eye ridge at the sound, but the twinkle in Dominique's eyes told it all to him. "Are ya glad to be home again lassie?"

"Yes, and I have you in checkmate!"

Seeing that Dominique was right, Hudson threw his head back and groaned. However, the others laughed out loud. Broadway was finally able to gasp out, "finally someone in this clan can beat Hudson at chess!"

Dominique proudly whispered to her friend and mentor from ages past. "Another game mentor?"

"Aye lass. And this time I won't make it so easy for ya to win." Hudson's wink told Dominique that he too was glad that she was safe at home.

*********************************************

Two days later a package arrived at the Maza home from Nightstone Unlimited. Peter wondered as his wife opened the envelope. "Why didn't Dominique just call us or come over?"

"Peter, she is still getting accustomed to having us as her mom and dad. Oh my …"

"What is it Diane?" Then Peter Maza got a good look at the papers in his wife's hands.

Adoption papers, and a birth certificate! Both with the child's name as Dominique Nicole Maza! All that was needed were their signatures. Diane didn't wait a moment to sign the papers. Peter only waited for his wife to be finished before leaving his name signed on the area marked by an arrow sticker.

That night, Dominique brought her parent's copies of the papers herself. That was a night she would never forget! Elisa and Goliath showed up to visit – seeing as they had gotten Peter and Diane's message.

A camera was out and the three gargoyles took their human forms for suffering from Diane's shutterbug! Elisa giggled as she gave Dominique bunny ears every other shot. That is until big sister decided to put little sister in her place when their mom and dad left the room by wrestling her to the floor and tickling her pink!

"Mommy! Daddy! Goliath! Get her off of me! Domi you're being a brat! Let me up!" Elisa screeched through her tears of laughter.

Dominique growled a chuckle into her sister's ear, "when you stop acting like a complete brat! Bunny ears twice is normal, but ten times is beyond over board 'little' sister!"

"You are so enjoying the fact that you're the eldest! Don't get any ideas of being boss - because I'm top lass!" Elisa stuck her tongue out at Demona, who winked back with a mock growl.

"If you don't be good, I'll tell mom and dad on you!"

Diane laughed as she called out from the living room, "Domi and Elisa! The two of you behave or it will be no parade for the two of you – and I mean it! Next time I use full names and that means the two of you are in the washroom redoing all of the napkins and the like!"

The roar of laughter coming from Goliath and Peter was building with each lady's counter point. Elisa pushed her sister off of her and jumped to her feet. She firmly planted her hands on her hips as she stood over Dominique. "You think because you're a few years older that you can tell me what to do! I don't think so! Just because you're the oldest doesn't mean you're the boss."

Dominique stood up and made her eyes half glow red. "I out age you by centuries, not years, little girl. And you can't use that good girl act forever!"

"I can try! So, when are you going to spill those little secrets you were hinting at before?" Elisa chuckled as Dominique winked and tilted her head towards Goliath.

You mean about your 'Big Guy'? Oh, I thought that you had learned all of those! After all we rarely see the two of you out of the bedroom!" Peter heckled all the harder as Goliath blushed a full deep purple.

"Oh, oh. Girls run!" Peter yelled as he held his chuckling wife back, while their eldest children ran out the house in mock fear. But, they came in giggling as they both hugged on their mother.

Thanksgiving Day

7 am on the dot found the Labyrinth Clan, the Wyvern Clan – both in human form, the Xanatoses, Owen, Maria Chavez, Dominique Nicole Maza (formerly known as Demona), and Lennox MacDuff (a.k.a. MacBeth) stood on the Maza's front step. Peter opened the door with a big grin on his face. "Good, all of you are right on time. Diane, no one is getting punished today!"

"Good, I don't want to waste time on punishments that could be used for celebrating. Come in all of you! Breakfast is almost set, and the parade is going to start shortly. So, grab a plate and chow down. I want everyone full by the end of the parade! We have loads of Christmas decorating and cooking to do, so you'll all need the energy that you can get today." Diane happily shouted from the kitchen.

Beth cried out as she rushed away from front of the TV, "dibs on the cinnamon rolls!"

"I don't think so, Beth! Come on everyone – we can leave our coats in here." Elisa led them to a small spare bedroom just past the stairs.

Before long, the whole family was seated in front of the television watching the Macy parade – each with a fully loaded plate, and all enjoying the job they had done most of the night before.

Diane was satisfied once she saw that Elisa's appetite had obviously returned and then some. The family matriarch could help but wonder if her little girl was breeding, given the rate she was eating it was a strong possibility. Diane decided that Elisa was going to take it easy by helping in the kitchen – besides, it would save them all the whining Beth was giving earlier.

Diane stood there looking at her new larger family. On the couch closest to her sat Goliath (called Keith in his human form) cuddling close to his mate Elisa. Those two were simply meant for one another. Strong, caring, and loving described both of them – what a brood Diane could see the pair raising. Elisa giggled and smiled when Goliath wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Diane saw the looks each was giving the other; if Elisa wasn't expecting yet, she soon would be.

Next to them on that couch was Hudson, who continued to use the name he chose so long ago. Now and again he would glance up from the TV at the pair and grin. He too knew what was happening between the Clan's leader and his mate. Beside him was Elisa's former boss, Captain Maria Chavez. Diane could help but wonder if there was something also happening between that pair. But, neither Maria nor Hudson was saying anything – one way or the other.

Below them were Lexington (Lex) and Brooklyn (Brook), both had agreed with the rest of the Clan's younger members that short forms of their true names would be easier for everyone to remember. Both were paying full attention to the parade on the screen and didn't notice the action happening behind them. This was the first Macy's parade that they were awake to see live – and neither wanted to miss a single moment.

The same was true for the couple in the floor beside them. Angela (Serena) was leaning back on her mate Broadway (Brody) both of who adored Diane's cooking. Giving that Angela actually tied with Elisa at two and a half plates each, while Broadway had four.

In chairs before Diane was a family that had caused these Clans heartache and joy in the years she had known them. David was relaxed and obviously enjoying the interaction. Diane supposed that he didn't have big family gatherings growing up, but his face certainly didn't prove her right or wrong. Beside him was his wife Fox holding their young son, Alexander. The child was having the time of his life watching the action on the television and in the house as well.

Their assistant, Owen Burnett, however was as stiff shirt as ever. She had yet to see the man smile, though he did mumble something about it being a refreshing change of pace for himself and Alexander. Whatever the man meant, Diane was sure she didn't know.

Sitting beside Owen was Diane's grandfather-in-law, Joseph. He had come in specially to meet his new family members (especially Dominique). Elisa had already told him over the phone the whole truth about the Clan and her husband and sister. He enjoyed that Keith brought him a great-great granddaughter by marrying Elisa, but was wary about Dominique's relationship with Lennox. He wanted a little time having Dominique as his great-granddaughter before having to adjust to having this Scotsman as her love.

On the couch in front of the window sat Beth and her friend from Arizona, Tyler Masters. The boy seemed nice, but was obviously not used to so many people in one family gathering. Diane couldn't wait to see how he'd handle things once the sun went down. And beside them were Diane's newest daughter and her guest – Dominique and Lennox MacDuff. When Domi (as everyone had begun calling her) began leaning on Lennox towards the end of the parade, Diane could sense that there was something going on between the pair. His wrapping an arm around the woman's shoulders confirmed it, and caught the attention of Keith and Elisa.

On the floor in front of them were Derek and his wife Maggie. It was so wonderful that they could now will themselves into human form and back to mutate form. They decided that their now smaller Clan would continue to protect and care for the less fortunate on the streets of New York City. Their mutate forms would only come out when it was necessary to fight.

Beside them were a now out-spoken Claw, and a friend of his from the underground by the name of Tracy. It seemed that the process that had stolen his humanity was what had robbed him of his voice – so becoming human returned it to him, but in his mutate form he would never be able to speak. Now that he could talk no one really wanted to tell him to shut up – though at times he liked to push it.

Only then did Diane notice that not everyone was there. "We are missing three. Where are Matt and his two friends?"

Maria looked over at Diane, who was standing in the doorway between the living room and the dining room. "Jodi's little sister's plane is late, so they'll be here by lunchtime."

"Too bad they have to miss the parade. This is better than watching a tape of it." Lexington happily chirped.

Angela looked over at him with a puzzled look on her face. "Why?"

"We have a lot more to be thankful for! Right Domi?"

This brought out more smiles when Dominique answered, "yeah we do Lex. We certainly do."

********************************************

By the last half hour of the parade, the three stragglers finally made it to the house. Luckily Diane had breakfast plates warm for them in the oven. Matt had brought his new girlfriend, Jodi Harrison, and her little sister, Heather. At first Heather was quiet and shy, until she got to talking with Brook. The two of them hit it off from the start.

Heather and Brook found that they both had lots of things in common. Both loved Harley Davidson's, heavy metal music, and both were a strange sight wearing each other's sunglasses. It looked as if one of the lonely bachelors of the once proudly single trio had found his match. Now only poor Lexington remained.

As soon as the new comers had finished their breakfasts, everyone was set to work.

Elisa, Dominique, and Diane went off into the kitchen to cleanup and start lunch. Hudson and Maria began untangling the mass of Christmas tree lights.

Owen watched the goings-on seated next to the Maza children's old crib that now two-year-old Alexander Xanatos was using as a temporary playpen.

Fox, Jodi, Heather, and Maggie helped Beth pullout and organize all of the family's collections of various ornaments.

While the rest of the men went outside to hang the various Christmas lights, decorations, and rant about the women; only Owen and Alexander knew exactly what the women themselves chatted about while the men were out of ear shot.

Lunch was light that afternoon, considering the feast that awaited them all once dinnertime came around. Afterwards the men returned outside to finish the exterior decorating, the ladies finished decking the downstairs area, and Dominique joined Elisa and Diane in the kitchen to finish the last few preparations for dinner – luckily she did.

Elisa grabbed a hold of the sink as the room began to spin in front of her eyes. When Alex screeched out, "Esa! Esa! Esa!" Dominique glanced over at her sister. Noticing that Elisa's knuckles were turning white, Dominique became worried of a possible relapse. "Are you alright Elisa?"

All Elisa did at first was shake her head. Her eyes were shut tight and it was obvious that she wasn't going to be vertical much longer. Once she fainted, Dominique grabbed Elisa by the shoulders and dragged the former detective's limp body to a near-by chair. "Mom, get Goliath in here – fast! Elisa hold on! Owen call the doctor!"

Goliath rushed in to find that his beloved mate was unconscious, and no one knew why or what had happened. He gathered her limp body into his arms and carried her to her old room, laying her to rest on the bed that had been her own once long before. That is where he remained for well over and hour and a half, until she finally woke.

"Hey, what happened? Why am I in my old room?" Elisa slurred out of her sleep.

Goliath gently pressed a kiss to her forehead and pulled her into his embrace. "You have been unconscious for an hour and a half, my mate. Elisa why didn't you tell someone that you weren't feeling well? You had us all worried."

"All I had was a little nausea this morning before we left the castle, but I was fine once I smelled mom's cinnamon rolls. I'll admit I over ate a little bit, but I was fine. I just got light headed and dizzy a little. Then everything went black."

"Elisa, you have never collapsed before getting sick. We even called Melody and Ann in," Goliath worriedly rubbed her back.

Elisa groaned, "I'm fine. I've just been through a lot in a short period of time." Staring with shock at the machine in the corner of her room, the young woman swallowed before looking up at her mate. "Goliath, what exactly is an ultrasound machine doing in my old room?"

Melody's half chuckled cough gave her the couple's attentions. "I think that I could explain that. You see, while you were unconscious I did a full exam and found a lump in your abdomen. I was scared that you had developed a tumor, and so I asked Owen to have the machine sent here straightaway. Luckily I did not find any tumors, however I do believe you are going to be pleasantly surprised by what I did find."

Off the top of what were once Elisa's dresser drawers, Melody took up what seemed to be a small card. Elisa curiously looked at what was obviously an ultrasound picture. Goliath looked up at Melody with a nervous gaze, "what exactly is in that picture?"

The Big Guy's attentions went fully on his mate when Elisa grabbed hold of his arm and took a sharp breath in. "Melody, do I really see what I think I see? I mean, we all thought that it was just too soon – didn't we? With all of the chemicals and magic that was used to cure me, is it safe for this to happen now?"

"I'm not really sure of anything, but I have a feeling that no matter what the two of you can see this through. After all, you did cheat death didn't you?" Melody and Elisa smiled and chuckled when Goliath groaned in utter confusion.

"Is Elisa going to be all right or not?"

Elisa rested Goliath's hand on her stomach. With the warmest smile he could ever remember her wearing, Elisa softly kissed his cheek. "Goliath, I have a little surprise for you. What Melody is trying to say is that she found a baby in me. I'm pregnant, my love and my mate."

All Goliath said before he hit the floor was "uuhhh?"

********************************************

It seemed that Melody had kept the baby a secret from everyone. She wanted the child's parents to be the first to know. After another ten minutes of waiting for Goliath to wake up, all three trudged back downstairs – calming everyone's fears for the former detective.

Elisa couldn't understand the dirty looks she got from Fox and David. "What's wrong with the two of you?"

"Do you know what was Alexander's first word?" David sarcastically asked while wearing his trademark smirk. A happy Alexander answered before anyone could say a word, "Esa, Esa, Esa!"

The entire group broke down into gasps of laughter, while Elisa's face showed the humbled shock that was held in her heart. Diane knew exactly what had happened to bring this out of the sweet little boy who was clawing air in a vain attempt to grab a hold of the lady he so adored.

"Who have we all been talking about for the past few weeks? And everyone knows just how much he has taken to Elisa. It's not surprising that her name would be his first word."

Decidedly unhappy sitting in his mother's lap, but mindful that there were new people who did not know of his powers, Alexander cried out again. "Esa, Esa, Esa!"

Fox got up and carried her precious little boy over to one of the few people she would ever trust with her son.  As soon as he was in Elisa's arms, Alexander smiled and giggled as he rested his head on the amazed woman's shoulder. It very well seemed to everyone that the little boy completely trusted the woman who cuddled and cooed over him, very much like a favorite aunt.

It seemed that while Elisa had slept, Ann had eagerly agreed to help in the kitchen. This left Elisa with nothing to do but sitting on the living room couch entertaining young Alexander until dinner. She had no idea that this had been planned and agreed-upon by all while she was asleep. The funny thing was she almost enjoyed it, and it looked as if Ann herself was having a blast.

Dominique seemed to genuinely be taken by the little girl. In her mind, Elisa knew exactly what her big sister was feeling.  Dominique wondered if raising her own daughter, Angela, would have been like this. 

Inside the eldest daughter in the Maza family still regretted all of the years she wasted with her hatred of humans.  And she had only begun to deal with the grief that her long ago betrayal of the Wyvern Clan had brought.

Yet there was something else that Elisa couldn't decipher that was burdening Dominique's heart – one last hole that remained of the evil Demona.  But Dominique seemingly couldn't bear to face it yet.

~ Sissy, are you okay? ~ Elisa softly spoke in Dominique's mind.

The younger sister could feel and hear the sigh that Dominique inadvertently sent. ~ I'm just trying to recover from the shock.  We all thought we almost lost you again.  Honestly, are you all right? ~

~ I'm better than all right. Keep a secret until later on? ~

Dominique glanced over her shoulder to her younger sister. ~ I'll bite, what is it? ~

~ Goliath and I are pregnant! ~

Dominique's eyes grew wide with shock, ~ I wish I had been smart enough to get Goliath pregnant instead of me a thousand years ago! All of the pain I endured, and it was for nothing? ~

~ You know what I mean, sissy! I am the one who's going to be having all of the pain! Damn, men have it sooo easy! ~ Elisa shot Dominique a dirty look.

~ I know sis. I'm really happy for the two of you. Is that why you blacked-out? ~

Elisa smiled. ~ Yeah. Sorry I freaked you and the others out. Do you want to talk later? ~

~ You know me too well, little sister. Yeah, I guess I need too. But, I doubt that I should. ~ Dominique sighed out loud as she sat a pile of plates and silverware on the table.

Elisa mouthed out the word "later" as Dominique headed back into the kitchen. She nodded, and somehow managed a small grin. Whatever it was, Elisa knew it was bad and had to do with her. The later would have to be somewhere isolated from the rest. This way everything would be out in the open, and all the secrets would be known.

Joseph sat beside Alex and Elisa after a few minutes. "I am very happy for you, nosis Elisa."

"Thank you misho. You were right when I was little."

Joseph smiled wonderingly at that. "And what was it I was right about?"

"I said my life would be boring and I would not find anyone to complete me. You said that my life had only begun and the strangest days still lay ahead of me. That I shouldn't worry about looking for the rest of my heart, for he would find me. You never said that he was going to catch me in mid-air though." Elisa grinned.

"I had to leave some mystery for you to discover on your own, nosis. Or else you wouldn't have had as much fun as you have had." Joseph winked and chuckled as Elisa giggled.

His only wish was to see his great-grandchildren happy. Now he had one more nosis to make so. Joseph went to the kitchen to 'annoy the women'. In reality, Elisa knew he was going to cajole a happy smile out of Dominique.

At that point Elisa bent down close to Alexander's almost knowing smile (darn if the kid hadn't inherited his father's sly smirk). "You knew that I was in trouble, am I right?"

The little boy's smile became all the sneakier. Yes, he knew and had done the only thing that he could do to help. Elisa smiled and gave him a soft peck on the cheek. "Thank you little bit. And I'm willing to bet that you know about my baby too, right?"

Alexander giggled and bounced at this. Elisa brushed a lock of hair away from his eyes. "Too bad you can't tell me if it'll be a girl or boy. Wait a minute; I think I know how you could without showing off your powers. You understand everything anyone says in front of you, right?"

Alexander nodded in giggled with a grin that put his father's to shame. Elisa's eyes glowed with hope, "here's what we're going to do. If I'm having a little girl, you point to me. And if I'm having a little boy, you point to yourself. Understand?"

Alexander just sat there, as if waiting for her to tell him that she was ready to find out. With a nod from Elisa's head, Alexander knew just what to do. A heartbeat later, the little boy tapped Elisa's arm. Her eyes grew wide for a second, as she understood what Alexander meant. "It's a girl isn't it? Is that what you mean Alexander - that I'm having a little girl?"

Alexander smiled and kissed Elisa's cheek, almost as if he was congratulating this soon to be mother.  Elisa sat up a little stunned by what she learned, but glancing over at Owen she knew that it had to be true.

The "man" slightly smiled and nodded congratulatory towards the young woman. Obviously he either a new himself or Alexander had somehow told him. But as to which was true, Elisa never did find out.

********************************************

An hour later the group was gathered in the too small dining room for the Maza family's first buffet styled Thanksgiving dinner. Hudson was asked to give the grace – as he was by far the eldest male elder of the Clans – though no one pointed that out to him.

"I know not of this Thanksgiving; ta be honest, I've never paid it much heed to it in the years we've been in this time. But, I think after all our Clans have come through, we have much to be thankful fer – no matter where the thanks be given. We be glad our Dominique is back with us, where she belongs. That Elisa be alive, well, and counted not only as one of our close friends, but is now one of our own too. That we be given choice in so much from Puck, and that he be inside Owen and not off to Avalon. We all be safe, together, and know peace at last. And if that be not good enough thanks, I know not what else to say."

Everyone chuckled when Matt stifled an alarmed cough. Hudson had forgotten about the two new girls. Jodie's eyes looked as if they were on the verge of popping out of her skull! And Heather's mouth was slightly open when she grabbed a hold of Brook who stood next to her.

"Brook, does Hudson mean the Puck from that Shakespeare play?"

"Yep, and wait until you find out the rest of our family's secrets." His sly grin and wink instantly put the young lady at ease.

Wearing her own grin within a moment, she seemingly challenged Goliath's second with her whispered voice chatting in his ear. "Do I really have to wait?"

For the first time in his human form, the group saw Brooklyn blush almost to his gargoyle color! He instantly calmed down when Heather joined in the round of laughter the filled the room. Soon, even he caught himself chuckling. "I think that it would be better on at least your sister that you wait."

"Tease." Heather whispered into his ear again.

Near the end of the night, Heather and Brook went out back to talk. In truth he was giving the Clan away by showing the lady his true form. Heather only smiled at the Clan's second, "did I ever tell you that red happens to be one of my favorite colors?"

"I think that you just did." Brooklyn softly growled.

Heather grinned up at him, "and I think that I'm going to really get to like this city."

"Two down … now just one to go." Serena chuckled as she and Brody winked at each other. Time had come to reveal the Clans as they really were.

Jodie sat there staring into space as she listened to the long story. Finally, she glared at a wincing Matt, "you mister are going to pay for not explaining sooner. At least it won't be too hard to keep the names straight. I mean completely different names would have me passing out from confusion. The guy's idea – right?"

Angela chuckled as she nodded. "I finally made them see the problem and made them think they came up with the solution all on their own."

"As all good females must." Dominique giggled. "And Angela, you were wrong before – it's two down with two to go. We still have to work on Hudson yet."

"Trust me, Hudson is taken care of." Maria winked from her chair next to the male she had her sights set on.

Lexington pouted from near the window. "What makes the females think that I need to be worked on? Males can do fine on their own."

"And the battle lines seem to be drawn," Jodie mentioned – making the females laugh all the harder.

"What battle?" Hudson gazed around in confusion.

Maria rested her head on his shoulder, "the battle of the sexes. Females versus males."

"Ah, it's males versus females Captain." Lexington crossed his arms over his chest for an added emphasis.

Elisa giggled with a wink up to Goliath, "yeah one battle form that is the common favorite tends to get the females pregnant."

"Elisa why would you happen to mention that one," Diane glared over at her daughter and son-in-law suspiciously.

Goliath grinned as he winked at his mate and love, "because that happens to be Elisa's favorite battle."

"Hold up mister, I am not the only one who enjoys it in this coupling. Unless you found a way to knock me up by osmosis or something!" Elisa couldn't help but grin as the rest of the room fell silent.

It was evident that Brooklyn and Heather too had heard the discussion, as the red gargoyle yelled up into the window, "Elisa's pregnant?"

Well how was that? Hope that you all liked it!