Hey guys! Thanks a lot for all the reviews. Josh, you're the greatest! I'm glad you're all enjoying the story so much. And I love love love the feedback. Umm...a warning for this chapter. There is sexual content. So on that note...we cue the story! Enjoy!!
Disclaimer: I, unfortunately, do not own any of the Gargoyle characters or the cartoon. I bet if I did though Brooklyn would adore me for giving him the gal of his dreams!!! HAHA!!
Another Spell Broken
Chapter Ten
Audri turned and examined the ugly bruise on her back, finding it had to believe that a sledge hammer could have left such a huge mark on her flesh and yet damage no bones. She turned the other way, trying to view the damage better in the full length mirror. Finally she gave up and made a sound of disgust.
"By the gods, this is one of the ugliest mars I have ever laid eyes on." she murmured, running a hand carefully over the bandages wrapped around her stomach.
"Come on hun, it's not that bad." Brooklyn said from his spot on Audri's bed where he had been watching the woman he loved with growing amusement. "Besides, the only one who pays any attention to your back is me, like when you're walking away-."
Audri quickly picked up a pillow from one of the chairs and threw it at Brooklyn, cutting him off in mid-sentence. "Have you not gotten yourself into enough trouble tonight, my love?" she asked jokingly. She walked across the room and came to a stop in front of him, placing her hands on her well curved hips.
"I thought I'd been forgiven for that." Brooklyn said, tossing the pillow behind him. Audri smiled and carefully lowered herself onto the bed beside him, taking care not to move too quickly and cause her body more pain then it was already in. Her entire back felt numb, her wings weak and useless, and her stomach burned with a dull throb where the knife had sliced her. "Aye," she said in a weak voice. "You were forgiven."
Brooklyn turned his concerned gaze to Audri and reached over to push her hair back, burying his talons in the thick mass and tilting her face so that her blue eyes met his. "What are you thinking about?"
The weary female sighed and placed a hand against her forehead. "I am just...so tired." she whispered. Tired seamed like an understatement though. Her body ached, protesting with each move that she made and making her feel stiff and completely exhausted.
Brooklyn took one of Audri's hands in his and smiled slightly as she leaned against him, her warm pliant body a welcome weight. "I know. I'm sorry all of this had to happen." he offered. She shook her head. "It is not your fault Brooklyn. Besides, I am glad that it happened." She moved away and looked up at him with solemn eyes. "Had it not, I would have never met you and...fallen so in love with you."
The two gargoyles smiled at each other, love shinning in their eyes. "I love you, Audri." Brooklyn whispered. Her lips trembled and tears gathered in her beautiful azure eyes, threatening to spill over. She bit her bottom lip and managed a small nod.
Still cradling her face in one of his hands, Brooklyn placed a kiss on her forehead and pulled Audri into his arms. "We'll get through this."
Audri took a shaky breath and nodded. "I...I know. I just never expected...this." she said softly. "Demona-."
"We don't need to talk about this right now, Audri." Brooklyn said, interrupting her. Audri nodded. "Aye, I know."
Audri felt his talons slide along her neck and under her chin, lightly pulling her face up until she was staring into his deep brown eyes. As it did every time he looked at her that way, her world slid away and took all of her problems with it. All she could think about now way him and his love for her. She sniffled and a genuine smile curved her lips. "All of my problems seam to disappear when I am with you." she said, turning toward him on the bed.
Brooklyn smiled down at her. "I know the feeling."
His arms tightened slightly around her and Audri felt the familiar heat rush through her body, leaving in it's path the need to be closer to him. She knew Brooklyn could feel it too. Something in his eyes changed. They grew darker and filled with the beginning sparks of passion.
Audri was unable to stop the moan of pleasure that escaped as his lips came down on hers, moving gently against them, coaxing, teasing. She gave herself up to the kiss, letting her emotions flow freely through her, unknowingly demanding more from him. Just when he deepened the kiss and things started getting interesting a knock sounded at the door.
"Go away." Brooklyn said, the sound muffled against Audri's lips. Audri giggled and pushed him away. "He is just kidding...come in." she called out. She gave him another quick kiss and slowly stood up. Lex came into the room, followed by Angela and Broadway.
"We just wanted to see if you were doing okay Audri." Lex said, rolling his eyes at the murderous look Brooklyn threw at him. Audri smiled. "I am doing fine Lex. A bit soar but nothing a little sleep wont take care of."
Angela came forward and hugged Audri. "I was very worried about you." she said. "Brooklyn told us what happened to you. I'm so sorry about what my mother did."
Audri gave Angela a confused look. "Your mother?"
"Oh, damn it." Brooklyn groaned. "I knew I was forgetting something."
Audri looked around the room at the other three, wondering what they could possibly be talking about. "What do you mean, you're mother?" she asked Angela, sitting back down on the bed next to Brooklyn.
Angela started to nibble on her lower lip, feeling slightly uncomfortable about having to tell Audri something that had obviously not been brought to her attention earlier. "Um...Audri. Demona is my mother." she said softly.
The breath visibly left Audri and she stared at the floor as if she were in a daze. Demona, Angela's mother. What was she going to do now. Audri had known that she couldn't kill Demona. Hadn't Goliath told her as much earlier that night? That fact hadn't stopped Audri from thinking up ways to rid the earth Demona. But now...Angela's mother? How could she possibly bring herself to do the same thing to Angela that Demona had done to her so long ago?
"She's your mother?" Audri asked, looking up at the other female. Angela nodded. Audri released a weary sigh and turned to Brooklyn. "I cannot put this off any longer, Brooklyn. We have to talk about this." she said in a quiet voice.
Brooklyn nodded, taking Audri's hands in his. "Let's go find Goliath and Hudson. We'll get something figured out." he said.
After having gone through her story for, what was hopefully the last time, and forcing herself not to give into tears Audri leaned back against the couch, exhaustion starting to take it's toll on her. The room was silent as the clan mulled over what Audri had just told them.
"I'm sorry about yer family, lass." Hudson said sympathetically. "Demona has always been bitter, but I never though she would go that low."
"I never thought she could either. Makes you wonder exactly what she was doing all that time that we were under the spell." Lex said. "How long ago did this happen?"
"No point in asking Audri anything, guys. She's asleep." Brooklyn said. Audri was curled up against him with her head resting on his chest and her eyes shut in deep slumber. A sad smiled curved Brooklyn's mouth as he looked down at the little female. "I feel so bad for her. Just when she thought nothing else could happen...bam..Demona."
The entire clan nodded their agreement. "There is not much we can do about this. All we can try to do is keep Demona's and Audri's paths from crossing." Goliath said.
"I could see if I could come up with some kind of tracking device. Maybe the next time one of us see's Demona we can find a way to attach it to her. That way we would be able to know where she is." Lex said.
Goliath shook his head. "Demona would never let any of us near her unless it involved fighting."
"I say we just do our best to take her mind off of things." Angela said. "Of course, if she wants to talk about things, we can always be there for her. But if not, then we can keep her occupied with other things while keeping a look out for Demona. There are so many new things she has yet to learn about."
The entire clan was in agreement. They would do what they could to make Audri's new life a happy one. The only time they would ever bring up Demona's name again was when they were face to face with her. And they all hoped that day would never come.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was weeks later and the clan had been successful with their plan. There had been no sign of Demona or mention of her name, and most importantly, Audri was happy.
It was on the third week, with the fall weather turning the night air crisp that Audri sat atop the parapet wall staring out at the city with a serene smile on her face and awaiting Goliath's instructions for patrol that evening.
"Hey you." a voice called out behind her. Audri turned and her smile widened as she watched Brooklyn approach. Her heart sped up as it always did upon seeing him. God, he was so good looking. And he was all hers. She pushed herself off the ledge and walked into his arms, wrapping her own around his waist. "Are we on patrol tonight?" she asked.
Brooklyn nodded. "Yup, just you and me tonight, hun." He pulled back and smiled down at her. "That okay with you?"
Audri laughed. "Of course it is." She leaned up and placed a chaste kiss on his lips, pulling away before he had the chance to turn the kiss in a direction that was anything but modest. "I love you Brooklyn." she said quietly.
"I love you too, Audri." he replied. "Come on, let's get this done and over with. I'm feeling deprived of some good quality cuddling."
Audri laughed. "Right. I shall make sure to attend to that as soon as we get back." She leapt up onto the ledge, an idea forming in her head. She hadn't raced since she was a child. It would be interesting to see if she was still as talented as she used to be. "Would you like to race to Central Park?"
Brooklyn gave a small laugh and leapt up beside her. "You actually think you can win?" he asked. Audri nodded. "Aye, I do." she said with a playful glint in her eye. Brooklyn nodded. "Alright. Winner gets...hmm..a back rub. I could sure go for one of those."
Audri shook her head. He was so sure of himself. "Alright then. Whenever you're ready."
"Okay. On the count of three. One...two...three!"
The two jumped from the castle at the same time, opening their wings to the thermals and soaring up into the sky. The race started out even, both of them going at the same speed in the direction of Central Park. Brooklyn had no doubt in his mind that he would be the winner of their little race, so he decided to make friendly conversation until Audri tired.
"So, Audri...did you have a mate back then?" he asked
Audri seamed startled by his question but smiled anyway. "No..never." she said.
"Why not?"
"Because no one could catch me." she said, giving him an impish grin.
Her answer was a confusing one and Brooklyn was about to ask her what exactly she had meant when he found out for himself. Audri slightly tucked her wings and sped up, easily passing him and putting quite a bit of distance between them. Brooklyn's mouth dropped open. She was fast. Incredibly fast. He attempted to catch up to her but it was impossible. She had the advantage over him with her smaller body and the fact that he had completely underestimated her.
Audri reached Central Park and circled around to face Brooklyn as he came up behind her. She gave him a smug smile. "So, when do I get that back rub?"
Brooklyn came to a stop in front of her. "Whenever you want it." he said, slightly out of breath. "How did you learn how to fly like that?"
Audri turned to glide a slow course around the park, starting their patrolling for the evening. "My father." she said, a fond smile curving her lips as she remembered back to the day when her father had first taught her how to fly. "He was a very protective man. He said it was the only way to keep any male away from me when my time came." She laughed and turned to face Brooklyn. "It worked."
"I'd say." Brooklyn muttered, smiling over at Audri.
They continued on their patrol, talking amicably and making their way slowly across the city skyline. The evening wore on and they had made a wide circle around the city and were back at Central Park where they had started.
Audri brushed her fingers through her hair and looked over at Brooklyn. "Back to the castle for my back rub, i think." she sang, doing a small barrel roll. Brooklyn sighed dramatically. "Yeah, sure. You want to make another race out of it?"
Audri gave him an incredulous look. "I beat you the first time. What makes you think this shall be any different." she asked laughingly. Brooklyn shrugged his shoulders. He didn't think it was going to be any different. He knew. Something had clicked in him during their first race. Something that sent the blood racing through his veins. The only way to figure out what exactly that had been all about was to challenge Audri to another race. This time he wouldn't loose.
"I don't know." he said. "A head start maybe?"
Audri gasped as Brooklyn turned and glided away from her. Giving into her competitive nature, Audri quickly took off after him. "That's not fair at all, Brooklyn!" she yelled, coming up behind him. Audri looked down for a brief moment, not realizing her mistake, then looked up only to find that Brooklyn had disappeared. "What on earth..." she whispered. Maybe she had passed him. Audri turned her head and looked behind her. There was nothing there but the tops of buildings.
Suddenly, strong arms came around her from behind and Audri shrieked in surprise. She pushed herself around to face her captor and glared up into Brooklyn's eyes. "Looks like you've finally been caught." he said softly.
Audri opened her mouth to respond when she realized the truth of his words. She had been caught. A feeling unlike any she had ever felt sized her. Excitement, lust, love and passion warred within her, making her captive to their exquisite torcher. Her wide eyes regarded Brooklyn, seeing her feelings mirrored in their chocolate brown depths. These feelings confused her. She felt all to aware of her body and Brooklyn's.
He held her in his arms, both of them not knowing quite what to make of the situation. When they approached Castle Wyvern, Brooklyn caught a thermal, carried them up and landed softly in the large courtyard where Audri had first met him. "Audri..." he started.
She looked up at him and tried to smile, but she was still trying to make sense of what was going on inside her. "I guess we have both won. Umm...I have to...have to talk to Angela. I will see you later." she said quickly, turning and walking quickly into the castle entrance.
Brooklyn watched her go, completely confused by her actions. What had he done now?
Audri ran through the hallway and found Angela's room, knocking on the door. "Come in." Angela called from inside. Audri wasted no time. She quickly entered Angela's room and closed the door firmly behind her.
"Audri. What's wrong?" Angela asked, putting down the book she had been reading. Audri crossed the room and sat down in the chair across from Angela.
"I was out patrolling with Brooklyn, and we were racing back to the castle. I looked away from one minute and he was gone. But then he came down from above me and caught me in his arms. Then something strange happened. All of these...these feelings rushed through me. Things I've never felt, or at least never felt so strongly before. I felt a need for something. I don't know what though! What am I supposed to do?" Audri buried her hands in her face with a frustrated cry.
Angela smiled sympathetically at the other female. "Audri, don't worry. What's happening to you is a very natural thing." she said, placing a hand on Audri's shoulder.
"What is happening to me?!" Audri asked, sounding completely miserable.
Angela chuckled softly. "You're mating." she said simply.
Audri raised her head from her hands and looked at Angela. "That's all that's happening, Audri. Your body is telling you that it's ready to take a mate." Angela explained.
Audri blushed. So that's all it was. She felt so silly for coming to Angela thinking something terrible was happening to her and the whole time her body had been telling her that it was ready to take a mate. Her mother had explained to her what mating was about but she had never described the feelings that went along with it. Thank the gods Angela was here to help her. "I feel so silly."
"Don't feel silly. I had no idea what was going on with me either. I had to ask Elisa about it." Angela said.
Audri leaned over and hugged Angela. "Thank you so much. I don't know what I would have done without you to help me." she said.
Angela leaned back, giving Audri an understanding smile. "Anytime you need my help, I will always be here to give it. So, what are you going to do now?"
Audri stood. "I'm going to find Brooklyn."
She found him on the high tower of the castle, staring off into the night, his white locks blowing gently in the breeze. Feeling the anticipation growing in her, begging for a form of release, Audri walked quietly forward.
Brooklyn heard her coming and turned to face her. "Hey." he said.
"Hello." Audri replied, coming up beside him. Their was an awkward moment of silence broken when Brooklyn asked. "Are you okay?"
A slow smile formed on her lips and Audri looked up into his eyes. "Aye. I am sorry about earlier. Something happened and I wasn't sure what to do. So I went to talk to Angela." she said.
"What did Angela say?" he asked, a note of caution in his voice.
"Oh, she just said that what I was feeling was completely natural. It's how a body feels when it is ready to take a mate." She stated simply, smiling at Brooklyn's shocked expression. The feelings came again, one right on top of the other. She was intoxicated with the passion raging inside her and went with the feelings this time, leaning up and kissing Brooklyn softly. She broke the kiss and backed away. Smiling suggestively she walked backwards to the ledge. A thrill when through her when she saw Brooklyn's eyes blaze white hot and heard the primitive growl raise from his throat.
Audri jumped up onto the ledge and leapt off, this time only going as far as the glass door that lead into her bedroom. She threw it open and walked in, moving to stand next to the bed. She jumped slightly, excitement rushing through her, when she heard a small thump outside. He was there.
When he entered the room his eyes immediately went to Audri, running over her body and landing on her face. She felt as if the whole room were devoid of air, making it hard to breath.
"Audri...do you know what you're asking for?" Brooklyn questioned, his voice rough with emotion. Audri nodded, her heart racing, and opened her arms to him. "I love you. This is what I want." she whispered.
"I love you, Audri." he said, walking to her and crushing her body against his. His mouth came down on hers. He kissed her hungrily, as if he were starving. Audri went limp against him and opened her mouth, her tongue darting out to meet his. Her hands buried themselves in his thick hair. Brooklyn moved from her mouth to her neck, trailing hot kisses over the sensitive skin and Audri moaned, her head dropping back to allow him better access to the flesh he sought.
Brooklyn lifted her and placed her on the bed, coming down on top of her. He returned to her mouth, kissing her deeply, her taste driving him to insanity. He had wanted this for so long. Her body arched against his, demanding his attention. He would not deny it.
Audri whimpered when he backed away. "Where are you going?" she asked. Brooklyn chuckled and smiled down at his beautiful about-to-be mate. "I just wanted to look at you." he murmured, running his hand between the valley of her breasts and over her flat stomach. He was rewarded with Audri's little purr of pleasure as her eyes closed. "Oh..." she whispered.
She felt so alive, so aware of everything. Of the way Brooklyn's talons caressed her, his leg moving against hers, his lips kissing their way across her neck and to her ear. She gasped when one of his hands closed gently around her breast, never dreaming something could feel so good. His lips returned to hers, coaxing them open and Audri shivered.
Kissing and touching wasn't enough though. They both craved more. Brooklyn pulled at Audri's shirt and it was thrown aside. Then he went for her belt buckle and skirt, carefully removing them and exposing her body to the pale moonlight.
"Audri...you're so beautiful" he murmured.
Audri smiled and reached down between them, her hands coming to rest on his belt.
"Are you sure?" he asked, even though he wasn't sure he'd be able to stop himself if she said no.
"I've never been more sure." she said softly, raising up to kiss him. She worked quickly, removing his belt and loincloth, then her hand closed around him and Brooklyn released a torchered groan as his body surged with pleasure. She moved her hand slowly, experimentally.
"Enough." Brooklyn growled. Audri gave him a confused look. "I want you Audri." he said. She smiled up at him, her eyes glowing with love and passion. "Then love me Brooklyn." she whispered, her legs wrapping around his waist and drawing him close.
He reached down between them and caressed her carefully, drawing forth a sweet moan of pleasure from Audri. She moved restlessly against his hand, sighing his name over and over again, begging him to take her. When she was ready, he leaned down and crushed his lips against hers, kissing her ruthlessly and entered her body slowly. But she would have none of that. She thrust her hips up to meet him, closing her legs tightly around his waist and drawing him all the way in. Brooklyn groaned as her tight wetness surrounded him, promising him sweet oblivion.
"Are you okay?" he managed, in a tight voice. Audri's breathing was labored, her arms clutching at him. "Aye...wonderful." she said in awe. She wiggled against him. "Is there more?" she asked. Brooklyn laughed breathlessly. "Yeah...there's more." He kissed her again, loving the feel of her tongue against his, then moved within her, causing her to gasp in surprise.
Their bodies moved together as one, demanding fulfillment. Every gasp, every moan drove them on, made them want more. Audri could feel a tightness forming inside her stomach with every thrust. She wrapped her arms tightly around Brooklyn's neck as the tightness became unbearable. He plunged deep inside her and Audri screamed out his name as the world shattered around her and left her floating in a haze of passion, completely sated.
Brooklyn joined her a moment later, growling out her name and collapsing against her, their sweat slickened bodies molding to each other. They laid in silence, listening to the sound of each others uneven breathing, neither one trusting themselves to speak.
When their breathing finally returned to normal, Brooklyn raised himself up on his elbow and looked down at Audri, taking in her long disheveled hair and glowing face. She was all he ever needed. "I love you Audri." he whispered, leaning down and kissing her softly. Audri smiled against his lips. "And I love you Brooklyn."
They laid there, basking in the afterglow of their love making until dawn approached. Then reluctantly rose from the bed and dressed, taking their time in the task and walking out to the parapets where the rest of the clan had gathered for sunrise.
Audri took Brooklyn's hand and allowed him to help her up on the ledge beside him. "Brooklyn, do you feel like...like I am part of you now? Because I feel like you are a part of me now." she said softly.
Brooklyn nodded and pulled her into his embrace. "I do. You're my mate now. I feel like a part of you will always be with me from now on." he said, running his talons through her long hair. Audri smiled against his chest. She had finally found true love.
Up on the highest tower Goliath surveyed the scene below feeling pride for the little female that had become a part of their clan. He smiled, thinking about how she had changed their lives. Angela finally had another female to keep her company. She had always had Elisa there, but Goliath supposed it was difficult to share with someone who was not only human, but romantically involved with her father. Hudson had happily taken her on and treated her as if she were his own daughter. Goliath himself enjoyed the conversations they shared, finding that Audri had a very intelligent young mind. And he was amazed at how quickly the depression that had once seamed to surround Brooklyn had completely disappeared over the past weeks. Watching the exchange that was taking place between Brooklyn and Audri, Goliath didn't hear the sound of footsteps approaching behind him.
"What are you frowning at Big Guy?" cam Elisa's warm loving voice. She wrapped her arm around his waist and looked down at the other gargoyles.
"Do you notice...anything going on between Audri and Brooklyn?" he asked.
"Yup, for quite some time now."
Goliath gaped at her and Elisa chuckled at his expression. "You mean you haven't noticed? The two are obviously in love." She looked over the side and smiled as she watched the new couple share a sweet kiss. "And, judging from their not-so-neat appearance...I'd say Brooklyn's got himself a mate."
"WHAT?!" Goliath's startled cry was abruptly cut off as the first rays of sunlight shot out across the sky.
"Priceless." Elisa said, her voice bubbling with mirth. She decided to come back later in the day with her camera and get a picture of Goliath's animated expression to show Brooklyn sometime. He'd get a kick out of it...if he wasn't too busy with Audri.
Smiling, Elisa made her way through the castle and out of the building to her car. She was incredibly happy that Brooklyn finally had someone. He deserved all of the happiness that Audri could give him.
But then there was Lex. Elisa had noticed how the little gargoyle was slipping further and further into the depression that Brooklyn was once so consumed with. She wouldn't see that happen to Lex. One gargoyle was quite enough. Being one Manhattan's finest detectives there was one thing that Elisa Maza was a pro at and that was finding information..fast. With a plan set to work in her mind, Elisa headed towards home for a long shower and an even longer nap.
Disclaimer: I, unfortunately, do not own any of the Gargoyle characters or the cartoon. I bet if I did though Brooklyn would adore me for giving him the gal of his dreams!!! HAHA!!
Another Spell Broken
Chapter Ten
Audri turned and examined the ugly bruise on her back, finding it had to believe that a sledge hammer could have left such a huge mark on her flesh and yet damage no bones. She turned the other way, trying to view the damage better in the full length mirror. Finally she gave up and made a sound of disgust.
"By the gods, this is one of the ugliest mars I have ever laid eyes on." she murmured, running a hand carefully over the bandages wrapped around her stomach.
"Come on hun, it's not that bad." Brooklyn said from his spot on Audri's bed where he had been watching the woman he loved with growing amusement. "Besides, the only one who pays any attention to your back is me, like when you're walking away-."
Audri quickly picked up a pillow from one of the chairs and threw it at Brooklyn, cutting him off in mid-sentence. "Have you not gotten yourself into enough trouble tonight, my love?" she asked jokingly. She walked across the room and came to a stop in front of him, placing her hands on her well curved hips.
"I thought I'd been forgiven for that." Brooklyn said, tossing the pillow behind him. Audri smiled and carefully lowered herself onto the bed beside him, taking care not to move too quickly and cause her body more pain then it was already in. Her entire back felt numb, her wings weak and useless, and her stomach burned with a dull throb where the knife had sliced her. "Aye," she said in a weak voice. "You were forgiven."
Brooklyn turned his concerned gaze to Audri and reached over to push her hair back, burying his talons in the thick mass and tilting her face so that her blue eyes met his. "What are you thinking about?"
The weary female sighed and placed a hand against her forehead. "I am just...so tired." she whispered. Tired seamed like an understatement though. Her body ached, protesting with each move that she made and making her feel stiff and completely exhausted.
Brooklyn took one of Audri's hands in his and smiled slightly as she leaned against him, her warm pliant body a welcome weight. "I know. I'm sorry all of this had to happen." he offered. She shook her head. "It is not your fault Brooklyn. Besides, I am glad that it happened." She moved away and looked up at him with solemn eyes. "Had it not, I would have never met you and...fallen so in love with you."
The two gargoyles smiled at each other, love shinning in their eyes. "I love you, Audri." Brooklyn whispered. Her lips trembled and tears gathered in her beautiful azure eyes, threatening to spill over. She bit her bottom lip and managed a small nod.
Still cradling her face in one of his hands, Brooklyn placed a kiss on her forehead and pulled Audri into his arms. "We'll get through this."
Audri took a shaky breath and nodded. "I...I know. I just never expected...this." she said softly. "Demona-."
"We don't need to talk about this right now, Audri." Brooklyn said, interrupting her. Audri nodded. "Aye, I know."
Audri felt his talons slide along her neck and under her chin, lightly pulling her face up until she was staring into his deep brown eyes. As it did every time he looked at her that way, her world slid away and took all of her problems with it. All she could think about now way him and his love for her. She sniffled and a genuine smile curved her lips. "All of my problems seam to disappear when I am with you." she said, turning toward him on the bed.
Brooklyn smiled down at her. "I know the feeling."
His arms tightened slightly around her and Audri felt the familiar heat rush through her body, leaving in it's path the need to be closer to him. She knew Brooklyn could feel it too. Something in his eyes changed. They grew darker and filled with the beginning sparks of passion.
Audri was unable to stop the moan of pleasure that escaped as his lips came down on hers, moving gently against them, coaxing, teasing. She gave herself up to the kiss, letting her emotions flow freely through her, unknowingly demanding more from him. Just when he deepened the kiss and things started getting interesting a knock sounded at the door.
"Go away." Brooklyn said, the sound muffled against Audri's lips. Audri giggled and pushed him away. "He is just kidding...come in." she called out. She gave him another quick kiss and slowly stood up. Lex came into the room, followed by Angela and Broadway.
"We just wanted to see if you were doing okay Audri." Lex said, rolling his eyes at the murderous look Brooklyn threw at him. Audri smiled. "I am doing fine Lex. A bit soar but nothing a little sleep wont take care of."
Angela came forward and hugged Audri. "I was very worried about you." she said. "Brooklyn told us what happened to you. I'm so sorry about what my mother did."
Audri gave Angela a confused look. "Your mother?"
"Oh, damn it." Brooklyn groaned. "I knew I was forgetting something."
Audri looked around the room at the other three, wondering what they could possibly be talking about. "What do you mean, you're mother?" she asked Angela, sitting back down on the bed next to Brooklyn.
Angela started to nibble on her lower lip, feeling slightly uncomfortable about having to tell Audri something that had obviously not been brought to her attention earlier. "Um...Audri. Demona is my mother." she said softly.
The breath visibly left Audri and she stared at the floor as if she were in a daze. Demona, Angela's mother. What was she going to do now. Audri had known that she couldn't kill Demona. Hadn't Goliath told her as much earlier that night? That fact hadn't stopped Audri from thinking up ways to rid the earth Demona. But now...Angela's mother? How could she possibly bring herself to do the same thing to Angela that Demona had done to her so long ago?
"She's your mother?" Audri asked, looking up at the other female. Angela nodded. Audri released a weary sigh and turned to Brooklyn. "I cannot put this off any longer, Brooklyn. We have to talk about this." she said in a quiet voice.
Brooklyn nodded, taking Audri's hands in his. "Let's go find Goliath and Hudson. We'll get something figured out." he said.
After having gone through her story for, what was hopefully the last time, and forcing herself not to give into tears Audri leaned back against the couch, exhaustion starting to take it's toll on her. The room was silent as the clan mulled over what Audri had just told them.
"I'm sorry about yer family, lass." Hudson said sympathetically. "Demona has always been bitter, but I never though she would go that low."
"I never thought she could either. Makes you wonder exactly what she was doing all that time that we were under the spell." Lex said. "How long ago did this happen?"
"No point in asking Audri anything, guys. She's asleep." Brooklyn said. Audri was curled up against him with her head resting on his chest and her eyes shut in deep slumber. A sad smiled curved Brooklyn's mouth as he looked down at the little female. "I feel so bad for her. Just when she thought nothing else could happen...bam..Demona."
The entire clan nodded their agreement. "There is not much we can do about this. All we can try to do is keep Demona's and Audri's paths from crossing." Goliath said.
"I could see if I could come up with some kind of tracking device. Maybe the next time one of us see's Demona we can find a way to attach it to her. That way we would be able to know where she is." Lex said.
Goliath shook his head. "Demona would never let any of us near her unless it involved fighting."
"I say we just do our best to take her mind off of things." Angela said. "Of course, if she wants to talk about things, we can always be there for her. But if not, then we can keep her occupied with other things while keeping a look out for Demona. There are so many new things she has yet to learn about."
The entire clan was in agreement. They would do what they could to make Audri's new life a happy one. The only time they would ever bring up Demona's name again was when they were face to face with her. And they all hoped that day would never come.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was weeks later and the clan had been successful with their plan. There had been no sign of Demona or mention of her name, and most importantly, Audri was happy.
It was on the third week, with the fall weather turning the night air crisp that Audri sat atop the parapet wall staring out at the city with a serene smile on her face and awaiting Goliath's instructions for patrol that evening.
"Hey you." a voice called out behind her. Audri turned and her smile widened as she watched Brooklyn approach. Her heart sped up as it always did upon seeing him. God, he was so good looking. And he was all hers. She pushed herself off the ledge and walked into his arms, wrapping her own around his waist. "Are we on patrol tonight?" she asked.
Brooklyn nodded. "Yup, just you and me tonight, hun." He pulled back and smiled down at her. "That okay with you?"
Audri laughed. "Of course it is." She leaned up and placed a chaste kiss on his lips, pulling away before he had the chance to turn the kiss in a direction that was anything but modest. "I love you Brooklyn." she said quietly.
"I love you too, Audri." he replied. "Come on, let's get this done and over with. I'm feeling deprived of some good quality cuddling."
Audri laughed. "Right. I shall make sure to attend to that as soon as we get back." She leapt up onto the ledge, an idea forming in her head. She hadn't raced since she was a child. It would be interesting to see if she was still as talented as she used to be. "Would you like to race to Central Park?"
Brooklyn gave a small laugh and leapt up beside her. "You actually think you can win?" he asked. Audri nodded. "Aye, I do." she said with a playful glint in her eye. Brooklyn nodded. "Alright. Winner gets...hmm..a back rub. I could sure go for one of those."
Audri shook her head. He was so sure of himself. "Alright then. Whenever you're ready."
"Okay. On the count of three. One...two...three!"
The two jumped from the castle at the same time, opening their wings to the thermals and soaring up into the sky. The race started out even, both of them going at the same speed in the direction of Central Park. Brooklyn had no doubt in his mind that he would be the winner of their little race, so he decided to make friendly conversation until Audri tired.
"So, Audri...did you have a mate back then?" he asked
Audri seamed startled by his question but smiled anyway. "No..never." she said.
"Why not?"
"Because no one could catch me." she said, giving him an impish grin.
Her answer was a confusing one and Brooklyn was about to ask her what exactly she had meant when he found out for himself. Audri slightly tucked her wings and sped up, easily passing him and putting quite a bit of distance between them. Brooklyn's mouth dropped open. She was fast. Incredibly fast. He attempted to catch up to her but it was impossible. She had the advantage over him with her smaller body and the fact that he had completely underestimated her.
Audri reached Central Park and circled around to face Brooklyn as he came up behind her. She gave him a smug smile. "So, when do I get that back rub?"
Brooklyn came to a stop in front of her. "Whenever you want it." he said, slightly out of breath. "How did you learn how to fly like that?"
Audri turned to glide a slow course around the park, starting their patrolling for the evening. "My father." she said, a fond smile curving her lips as she remembered back to the day when her father had first taught her how to fly. "He was a very protective man. He said it was the only way to keep any male away from me when my time came." She laughed and turned to face Brooklyn. "It worked."
"I'd say." Brooklyn muttered, smiling over at Audri.
They continued on their patrol, talking amicably and making their way slowly across the city skyline. The evening wore on and they had made a wide circle around the city and were back at Central Park where they had started.
Audri brushed her fingers through her hair and looked over at Brooklyn. "Back to the castle for my back rub, i think." she sang, doing a small barrel roll. Brooklyn sighed dramatically. "Yeah, sure. You want to make another race out of it?"
Audri gave him an incredulous look. "I beat you the first time. What makes you think this shall be any different." she asked laughingly. Brooklyn shrugged his shoulders. He didn't think it was going to be any different. He knew. Something had clicked in him during their first race. Something that sent the blood racing through his veins. The only way to figure out what exactly that had been all about was to challenge Audri to another race. This time he wouldn't loose.
"I don't know." he said. "A head start maybe?"
Audri gasped as Brooklyn turned and glided away from her. Giving into her competitive nature, Audri quickly took off after him. "That's not fair at all, Brooklyn!" she yelled, coming up behind him. Audri looked down for a brief moment, not realizing her mistake, then looked up only to find that Brooklyn had disappeared. "What on earth..." she whispered. Maybe she had passed him. Audri turned her head and looked behind her. There was nothing there but the tops of buildings.
Suddenly, strong arms came around her from behind and Audri shrieked in surprise. She pushed herself around to face her captor and glared up into Brooklyn's eyes. "Looks like you've finally been caught." he said softly.
Audri opened her mouth to respond when she realized the truth of his words. She had been caught. A feeling unlike any she had ever felt sized her. Excitement, lust, love and passion warred within her, making her captive to their exquisite torcher. Her wide eyes regarded Brooklyn, seeing her feelings mirrored in their chocolate brown depths. These feelings confused her. She felt all to aware of her body and Brooklyn's.
He held her in his arms, both of them not knowing quite what to make of the situation. When they approached Castle Wyvern, Brooklyn caught a thermal, carried them up and landed softly in the large courtyard where Audri had first met him. "Audri..." he started.
She looked up at him and tried to smile, but she was still trying to make sense of what was going on inside her. "I guess we have both won. Umm...I have to...have to talk to Angela. I will see you later." she said quickly, turning and walking quickly into the castle entrance.
Brooklyn watched her go, completely confused by her actions. What had he done now?
Audri ran through the hallway and found Angela's room, knocking on the door. "Come in." Angela called from inside. Audri wasted no time. She quickly entered Angela's room and closed the door firmly behind her.
"Audri. What's wrong?" Angela asked, putting down the book she had been reading. Audri crossed the room and sat down in the chair across from Angela.
"I was out patrolling with Brooklyn, and we were racing back to the castle. I looked away from one minute and he was gone. But then he came down from above me and caught me in his arms. Then something strange happened. All of these...these feelings rushed through me. Things I've never felt, or at least never felt so strongly before. I felt a need for something. I don't know what though! What am I supposed to do?" Audri buried her hands in her face with a frustrated cry.
Angela smiled sympathetically at the other female. "Audri, don't worry. What's happening to you is a very natural thing." she said, placing a hand on Audri's shoulder.
"What is happening to me?!" Audri asked, sounding completely miserable.
Angela chuckled softly. "You're mating." she said simply.
Audri raised her head from her hands and looked at Angela. "That's all that's happening, Audri. Your body is telling you that it's ready to take a mate." Angela explained.
Audri blushed. So that's all it was. She felt so silly for coming to Angela thinking something terrible was happening to her and the whole time her body had been telling her that it was ready to take a mate. Her mother had explained to her what mating was about but she had never described the feelings that went along with it. Thank the gods Angela was here to help her. "I feel so silly."
"Don't feel silly. I had no idea what was going on with me either. I had to ask Elisa about it." Angela said.
Audri leaned over and hugged Angela. "Thank you so much. I don't know what I would have done without you to help me." she said.
Angela leaned back, giving Audri an understanding smile. "Anytime you need my help, I will always be here to give it. So, what are you going to do now?"
Audri stood. "I'm going to find Brooklyn."
She found him on the high tower of the castle, staring off into the night, his white locks blowing gently in the breeze. Feeling the anticipation growing in her, begging for a form of release, Audri walked quietly forward.
Brooklyn heard her coming and turned to face her. "Hey." he said.
"Hello." Audri replied, coming up beside him. Their was an awkward moment of silence broken when Brooklyn asked. "Are you okay?"
A slow smile formed on her lips and Audri looked up into his eyes. "Aye. I am sorry about earlier. Something happened and I wasn't sure what to do. So I went to talk to Angela." she said.
"What did Angela say?" he asked, a note of caution in his voice.
"Oh, she just said that what I was feeling was completely natural. It's how a body feels when it is ready to take a mate." She stated simply, smiling at Brooklyn's shocked expression. The feelings came again, one right on top of the other. She was intoxicated with the passion raging inside her and went with the feelings this time, leaning up and kissing Brooklyn softly. She broke the kiss and backed away. Smiling suggestively she walked backwards to the ledge. A thrill when through her when she saw Brooklyn's eyes blaze white hot and heard the primitive growl raise from his throat.
Audri jumped up onto the ledge and leapt off, this time only going as far as the glass door that lead into her bedroom. She threw it open and walked in, moving to stand next to the bed. She jumped slightly, excitement rushing through her, when she heard a small thump outside. He was there.
When he entered the room his eyes immediately went to Audri, running over her body and landing on her face. She felt as if the whole room were devoid of air, making it hard to breath.
"Audri...do you know what you're asking for?" Brooklyn questioned, his voice rough with emotion. Audri nodded, her heart racing, and opened her arms to him. "I love you. This is what I want." she whispered.
"I love you, Audri." he said, walking to her and crushing her body against his. His mouth came down on hers. He kissed her hungrily, as if he were starving. Audri went limp against him and opened her mouth, her tongue darting out to meet his. Her hands buried themselves in his thick hair. Brooklyn moved from her mouth to her neck, trailing hot kisses over the sensitive skin and Audri moaned, her head dropping back to allow him better access to the flesh he sought.
Brooklyn lifted her and placed her on the bed, coming down on top of her. He returned to her mouth, kissing her deeply, her taste driving him to insanity. He had wanted this for so long. Her body arched against his, demanding his attention. He would not deny it.
Audri whimpered when he backed away. "Where are you going?" she asked. Brooklyn chuckled and smiled down at his beautiful about-to-be mate. "I just wanted to look at you." he murmured, running his hand between the valley of her breasts and over her flat stomach. He was rewarded with Audri's little purr of pleasure as her eyes closed. "Oh..." she whispered.
She felt so alive, so aware of everything. Of the way Brooklyn's talons caressed her, his leg moving against hers, his lips kissing their way across her neck and to her ear. She gasped when one of his hands closed gently around her breast, never dreaming something could feel so good. His lips returned to hers, coaxing them open and Audri shivered.
Kissing and touching wasn't enough though. They both craved more. Brooklyn pulled at Audri's shirt and it was thrown aside. Then he went for her belt buckle and skirt, carefully removing them and exposing her body to the pale moonlight.
"Audri...you're so beautiful" he murmured.
Audri smiled and reached down between them, her hands coming to rest on his belt.
"Are you sure?" he asked, even though he wasn't sure he'd be able to stop himself if she said no.
"I've never been more sure." she said softly, raising up to kiss him. She worked quickly, removing his belt and loincloth, then her hand closed around him and Brooklyn released a torchered groan as his body surged with pleasure. She moved her hand slowly, experimentally.
"Enough." Brooklyn growled. Audri gave him a confused look. "I want you Audri." he said. She smiled up at him, her eyes glowing with love and passion. "Then love me Brooklyn." she whispered, her legs wrapping around his waist and drawing him close.
He reached down between them and caressed her carefully, drawing forth a sweet moan of pleasure from Audri. She moved restlessly against his hand, sighing his name over and over again, begging him to take her. When she was ready, he leaned down and crushed his lips against hers, kissing her ruthlessly and entered her body slowly. But she would have none of that. She thrust her hips up to meet him, closing her legs tightly around his waist and drawing him all the way in. Brooklyn groaned as her tight wetness surrounded him, promising him sweet oblivion.
"Are you okay?" he managed, in a tight voice. Audri's breathing was labored, her arms clutching at him. "Aye...wonderful." she said in awe. She wiggled against him. "Is there more?" she asked. Brooklyn laughed breathlessly. "Yeah...there's more." He kissed her again, loving the feel of her tongue against his, then moved within her, causing her to gasp in surprise.
Their bodies moved together as one, demanding fulfillment. Every gasp, every moan drove them on, made them want more. Audri could feel a tightness forming inside her stomach with every thrust. She wrapped her arms tightly around Brooklyn's neck as the tightness became unbearable. He plunged deep inside her and Audri screamed out his name as the world shattered around her and left her floating in a haze of passion, completely sated.
Brooklyn joined her a moment later, growling out her name and collapsing against her, their sweat slickened bodies molding to each other. They laid in silence, listening to the sound of each others uneven breathing, neither one trusting themselves to speak.
When their breathing finally returned to normal, Brooklyn raised himself up on his elbow and looked down at Audri, taking in her long disheveled hair and glowing face. She was all he ever needed. "I love you Audri." he whispered, leaning down and kissing her softly. Audri smiled against his lips. "And I love you Brooklyn."
They laid there, basking in the afterglow of their love making until dawn approached. Then reluctantly rose from the bed and dressed, taking their time in the task and walking out to the parapets where the rest of the clan had gathered for sunrise.
Audri took Brooklyn's hand and allowed him to help her up on the ledge beside him. "Brooklyn, do you feel like...like I am part of you now? Because I feel like you are a part of me now." she said softly.
Brooklyn nodded and pulled her into his embrace. "I do. You're my mate now. I feel like a part of you will always be with me from now on." he said, running his talons through her long hair. Audri smiled against his chest. She had finally found true love.
Up on the highest tower Goliath surveyed the scene below feeling pride for the little female that had become a part of their clan. He smiled, thinking about how she had changed their lives. Angela finally had another female to keep her company. She had always had Elisa there, but Goliath supposed it was difficult to share with someone who was not only human, but romantically involved with her father. Hudson had happily taken her on and treated her as if she were his own daughter. Goliath himself enjoyed the conversations they shared, finding that Audri had a very intelligent young mind. And he was amazed at how quickly the depression that had once seamed to surround Brooklyn had completely disappeared over the past weeks. Watching the exchange that was taking place between Brooklyn and Audri, Goliath didn't hear the sound of footsteps approaching behind him.
"What are you frowning at Big Guy?" cam Elisa's warm loving voice. She wrapped her arm around his waist and looked down at the other gargoyles.
"Do you notice...anything going on between Audri and Brooklyn?" he asked.
"Yup, for quite some time now."
Goliath gaped at her and Elisa chuckled at his expression. "You mean you haven't noticed? The two are obviously in love." She looked over the side and smiled as she watched the new couple share a sweet kiss. "And, judging from their not-so-neat appearance...I'd say Brooklyn's got himself a mate."
"WHAT?!" Goliath's startled cry was abruptly cut off as the first rays of sunlight shot out across the sky.
"Priceless." Elisa said, her voice bubbling with mirth. She decided to come back later in the day with her camera and get a picture of Goliath's animated expression to show Brooklyn sometime. He'd get a kick out of it...if he wasn't too busy with Audri.
Smiling, Elisa made her way through the castle and out of the building to her car. She was incredibly happy that Brooklyn finally had someone. He deserved all of the happiness that Audri could give him.
But then there was Lex. Elisa had noticed how the little gargoyle was slipping further and further into the depression that Brooklyn was once so consumed with. She wouldn't see that happen to Lex. One gargoyle was quite enough. Being one Manhattan's finest detectives there was one thing that Elisa Maza was a pro at and that was finding information..fast. With a plan set to work in her mind, Elisa headed towards home for a long shower and an even longer nap.