“Trust In And OUT”

by Jade Griffin

7-2-00 to 8-14-00

 

late June, 1962. Evening—

 

     “Charles, no running in the house. Brett, come help me with the dishes.”

     The oldest sighed. “Yes, mom.” He grudgingly assisted his mother in setting the table, stepping around his little sister, stuck to mom’s leg.

     Charles, younger by a year, skidded into the kitchen. “Are we having stew tonight?”

     The mother smiled. “Yes. And salad,” She handed him the bowl to take to the table. “And bread, and—“

     The front door opened. Gregory walked in, nearly dragging. Flopping coat and hat onto the couch, he stretched. Inhaling the pleasant aromas, he smiled and headed toward the kitchen.

     The mother set her young daughter in a high-chair, in which the girl immediately fussed until given a piece of bread. Now free, she greeted her husband with a kiss before putting away his things.

     Gregory took a seat at the dinner table and glanced at his sons. They shrugged, so he looked expectantly at his wife as she returned.

     “What’s the occasion, Mar?”

     She took a seat and passed the salad over to Charles. “No occasion.”

     He sighed, his expression of disbelief. “’No occasion’? I can smell the blueberry pie, Marilla. What’s going on?”

     He was always too suspicious. But she knew how to handle him. “Nothing is going on, Gregory. I want my family to be well-fed; because I have to go to the Women’s League Convention this week.”

     He put his butter knife down, sighing again. “A women’s league convention?” he scoffed.

     “Yes. I told you about it three weeks ago.” She was lying, but he could never tell.

     “How long?” He eyed her steadily.

     “Three days. I have to be there Thursday. Don’t worry, Gregory. I have faith in you and the boys. Brett has been wanting more responsibility, and he has watched Shandra before.”

     “I’M gonna watch HER, for three days??”

     "Mrs. Carsek next door is very helpful and experienced. And your father will be here in the evenings. It won’t seem that long, and showing such responsibility might just help you pay for that new bicycle you keep talking about.”

     Her smooth and delicate talk had her son’s eyes glittering at the prospect. Gregory sulked but said nothing further.

     “If I help out, too, can I get some new skates?” Charles asked, wanting to get in on the deal.

     Marilla smiled. “It’s a good possibility.”

     “Me?” the three-year-old Shandra voiced.

     “I’ll think of something for you, too. IF you’re good.”

     Clearing the table, Marilla Collins finalized the plans in her head. She never liked manipulating, or lying, but this was an emergency. Of course, she wasn’t a member of the ‘Women’s League’. That was her cover and excuse to go see the gargoyles. Reneyl had come through. She’d received word today by mail. She was to be given a talk with the Clan Elders.

     Shandra wandered over and tugged at her dress. “You go on a tou-ip?”

     The mother took a seat and set the child in her lap, smiling. “Yes, I am. I won’t be gone long. And I hope to bring back something very special just for you.” Marilla looked about for onlookers before adding quietly, “I’m going to learn more stories to tell you. But you have to remember extra hard while I’m gone not to tell anyone, especially your father or brothers. The gargoyles are not for boys.”

     “Weawy? Jus’ fou me?”

     “And me.” She smiled maternally at the intent little face. “I have to get packing now.” She patted her daughter up and then stood. The child wouldn’t know for several years to come that she was the true reason behind the trip.

 

     The towering extinct volcano before her was a welcome sight. Marilla had walked the remaining three and a half miles once the taxi-cab dropped her off from picking her up at the train station. She glanced to the west. A little while to go before sunset. Marilla put her bag down and took a seat, resting.

     An hour and some later, the distant roar of over a hundred gargoyles waking brought her eyes open quickly. She stood, picked up her things, and watched the sky for patrolling wings.

     Marilla didn’t even need to give her identifying call minutes later. A figure high in the sky above caught sight of her and dove quickly. She smiled as she recognized Reneyl. He landed in front of her.

     “You came quickly.” He sounded surprised.

     “This is very important.” When he caught sight of the large handbag she carried, she added in answer to his frown, “I wasn’t certain how long I’d be away.”

     The black and white gargoyle nodded. “I will make sure you are welcome.” He held his four-taloned hand out for the bag. “Ready?”

     Marilla took a deep breath, nodded.

     Reneyl turned and bent down for the human woman to climb on. Secure against his back, both hands free as the handbag hung from one arm, he started his climb up the wall of the volcano.

     “Have you told them?” Marilla asked as he scaled the rock side, her hands around his shoulders.

     “I thought Bradier should know, as Clan Leader. I’ve told him all that you said. His reaction was guarded.”

     She contemplated that as he reached the top. “You don’t think I’ll get much approval?”

     He turned his head so that she could see his rueful smile. “I tend to think the worst. You may very well get what you wish.”

     The gargoyle spread his silver wings wide and launched them both into the air. Marilla thrilled at the sensation of gliding, never tiring of such an experience. But too quickly, they settled to the bowl, and the courtyard of the gargoyles’ clan home.

     She was greeted by formal or polite gestures but a few talked to her personally. She knew she was lucky to be trusted in their company but she would’ve felt better if more had welcomed her as ‘friend’. Tall Flower, a brown-skinned and very tall female, was one exception. As the call went up to gather in the courtyard, Tall Flower made her way toward Marilla. She exuded a quiet grace that had always intrigued her, and she gave no impression of ever belittling anyone as she bowed with respect to the human.

     “Good evening, Marilla Collins.” Tall Flower greeted with a pleasant smile.

     She returned it. “Good evening.”

     The leader of the Clan, Bradier, opened his wings with a sudden snapping boom. His hands went up and the murmuring ceased.

     The leader of the Clan, Bradier, opened his wings with a sudden snapping boom. His hands went up and the murmuring ceased.

     “Marilla Collins has asked to speak with us on a matter concerning her youngest child. She wishes to teach her daughter about the clan, so that the girl may be another human contact and follow in her mother’s footsteps.” Bradier opened, as blunt and straight-forward as ever.

     Marilla couldn’t tell the Clan Leader’s opinion on her request, as he spoke with none. She could see, however, that the elders of the Clan were surprised at his announcement.

     “We will listen to what she has to say.” Bradier waved a taloned hand her direction.

     Most of the Clan could not see her, because she stood a mere 5’ 3” compared to these people. She hadn’t foreseen this problem but started as if nothing were wrong.

     “My daughter, Shandra, is two years old. I’ve started—“

     Reneyl placed a small tree-stump stool for a makeshift stand. Marilla nodded her thanks and took the boost. “I’ve started telling her stories, about gargoyles. She’s only a child but I felt compelled to begin teaching her. I want very much to be able to pass all that I know to my daughter. But, I won’t jeopardize the trust you have in me. When she’s old enough, I’d like to have your permission to bring her here, to show her.”

     Marilla did not receive much outward reaction. In fact, there was nothing but silence, broken by the distant scratching of one of the gargoyle beasts relieving an itch.

     “This will not be for many years, if you consent.” she began again.

     “Could you guarantee a positive reaction when she finally meets us?” the old, nay-saying female, Okaiu, asked.

     “There is no way I could, but teaching her when she’s—“

     “Then she could, possibly, become a very large threat to us.”

     “No. She wouldn’t—“

     “How could you know?”

     She may be small, and only a human housewife, but she would not be talked-over for this. “Because I’m her mother. Human parents have the same relationships with their children as older gargoyle generations to youngers. And there is one other thing you all may not have realized. I am not going to be around forever. Humans live only half as long as gargoyles, if we’re lucky. There will be no one after me, to my knowledge. Except Shandra.” She took a moment to calm herself. “I am not asking for an immediate answer. I want you to think it over and discuss the idea, and I hope you can understand why I want my daughter to know you all.” Marilla smiled. “Knowing this clan of gargoyles has given purpose to my life. I have been your contact with the human world for the past fourteen years. I will never take it for granted and I will always thank you for trusting me.”

     There wasn’t anything further she felt like adding. Marilla stepped off the stump and graced nobly out of the crowd. She did not see Tall Flower pass Reneyl a quiet smile.

     There was quite a bit of conversation Marilla could hear from her seat at a nearby garden bench, but she couldn’t hear exactly what was being said. Reneyl broke from the crowd to sit with her.

     “I didn’t know you could speak so eloquently and… strongly.”

     She gave him a smile. “My daughter’s future is being decided.”

     “You do not forget the trust we put in you, but I’m afraid I do. And… I do forget that the Clan is fortunate to be well-acquainted with such a human. Forgive me.” He looked away, truly ashamed.

     Her speech had affected him that much? “It’s all right.” she tried. It was an awkward moment. She decided to break it up. “How are the hatchlings? And that little one I had the pleasure of meeting?”

     “All very fine, including Jade Griffin. She speaks now, at least as much as the others. We haven’t been able to guess what caused her silence. Perhaps the trauma from seeing her Clan destroyed and being left without an adult.” He shrugged at the mystery.

     Her eyes drifted to the dirt at the mention of death. “Reneyl?”

     “Yes?”

     “How do you think it went tonight? Please, even if what you heard is all bad.”

     “No. Not all. Okaiu is playing Head Obstacle yet again. I will not say what she things of you, Marilla. The female antagonizes for no reason.” he warned, angry that one of his own reacted so strongly against someone he considered a friend.

     “And Bradier?”
     Reneyl frowned. “He remains silent, listening. I doubt there will be any decision tonight, but don’t let that be disheartening. You have at least four strong proponents. Myself, Tali, Tall Flower, and White-beak.” He grinned. “Don’t worry. There are more.”

     She sighed. “I suppose I should go ask refuge for the night, and day.”

    Bradier granted her this, only after a second discussion on trust and vulnerability. He did not like the idea but found no fuel for argument against Marilla’s ‘proponents’.

     “She will stay in your roost.” Bradier finalized before heading away from them.

     Marilla pointed her smile up to Reneyl.

     He blinked and looked down at her, having not expected such a decree. “…This way.” He trusted this woman very much but to have her in the same room as he when in stone sleep… What did a human do in all that time?

     “Are you uncomfortable with her sleeping with us?” Tali teased at his faulter. She’d joined their talk with Bradier after her turn watching the Rookery and now grinned at Marilla.

     “No. I … was wondering if Marilla was hungry.” he recovered.

     “Yes. I didn’t want to mention it…” She trailed off, a little anxious as they entered the Clan’s home—a large cave system inside a fissure in an extinct volcano. She’d barely once been inside these rock walls and wasn’t certain of her status here.

     “You are our guest.” Tali reproached, surprising Reneyl yet again at her ease with the human Contact. “We will show you the kitchen first. If you’re hungry while we sleep, you can have whatever you like.”

     Tali re-directed them to the kitchen, dished out soup for Marilla, and they were soon on their way back up.

     Marilla refrained from making comments on the bare cave-pock niche Reneyl and Tali shared to ‘take roost’ during the day. Because gargoyles slept as if stone statues at sunrise, they had no use for beds or other such things. Blankets were brought to her by young Sarash and, after regretting that she could hardly hold her eyes open, the gargoyles left Marilla in their space to sleep. She fell into it almost as soon as her head lay relaxed against her handbag.

     Near sunrise, Tali and Reneyl returned. He quietly walked over and kneeled down beside the sleeping human.

     “They have a vulnerability of their own that most of us do not realize.” he spoke quietly.

     Tali tugged at his shoulder. “Reneyl…”

     He gave her a smile, rose, and stepped away to strike a pose before the sun could catch them.

     Marilla awoke several hours before sunset, both gargoyles next to her encased in stone. Having little else to do and feeling that a little tour would harm no one, she left the little cave.

     Other such niches were filled with sleeping gargoyles. It was so very quiet now! And near the front, the two gargoyle beasts and their pup slept in their own stone poses.

     She retrieved more soup from the kitchen below before starting back to the upper levels where the roosts were. But what was on the third and fourth levels that she could see from the second? The balcony-like walkways above bore no holes for roostings… The Rookery?…

     It did no harm to look, did it? she justified, winding her way upwards along the path. And there wasn’t much on the third level. Oh, but there were two gargoyles up ahead… When she saw them closer, Marilla was struck with mixed emotions. It was Bradier, and Vanguard, standing before large double-doors and looking very menacing as they blocked the entrance. And there was only one place with doors in the Clan’s home: the Rookery.

     Feeling a little ashamed by her wandering, and saddened that they’d expected her to and so guarded their most precious possession, Marilla returned guiltily to Reneyl and Tali, to await the gargoyle’s judgment.

    

     That evening, Marilla was beginning to nod off in the stool Reneyl brought as she waited in his roost for the gargoyles’ decision. In fact, it was a hand on her shoulder that gently woke her started sleep.

     She gave Reneyl an apologetic smile with her yawn as she stretched. “How is it going?”

     “Well. How much you benefit the Clan was being retold as I left. White-beak is a very good speaker, as well. Are you hungry?”

     Marilla nodded and followed him out.

     She was served meat and bread and a vegetable, in requested small portions, before they took a bench seat in the kitchen hall.

     Reneyl glanced from his plate to Marilla’s. “Humans really do not eat a lot. Maybe that’s why you are all so small.” he kidded.

     “Small can be a good thing.” She turned a grin to the gargoyle. “I was very fast when I was younger. I ran nearly anywhere I wanted to go.”

     “But not any more?”

     “…No.” Marilla started on her food before more could be said on that. “Mmm.. This is so good! Who is your cook?”

     “We all cook.” the black and white gargoyle said around a mouthful. “Tonight there were seven, including Tall Flower, Sarash, Marobe, and Liatris.”

     “My compliments to them.”

     Marilla glanced about the hall, at those gargoyles eating and the rising trickle of those coming in. She was a small person but felt almost like a child among these giants. Very conscience of how she ate. There were several glances cast her way but she only saw curiosity. Especially from the ‘teenage’ gargoyles in the hall.

     Reneyl ate his generous portions quickly and, while she was a mere half-finished, he rose.

     “It will be feeding time in the Rookery in a moment. I’m one on watch but one of us will tell you as soon as a decision is heard.”

     Without a word further, Reneyl joined a growing group carrying bowls and platters out of the kitchen.

     She wished she could see such an occasion… Marilla looked about again, all at once feeling alone. ‘One of us’? Perhaps White-beak, or Tall Flower. So there were mixed feelings still?… She ate quicker, leaving no waste, and made her way swiftly back to Tali and Reneyl’s roost.

     She fell asleep again but no one woke her. Waking on her own, she rose and saw Tali only in stone sleep. Reneyl must still be in the Rookery. It was only mid-day by her wrist-watch. Marilla decided to get up, eat, and absorb some sunshine.

     Finding some bread, the woman headed out. No gargoyles about but that was expected. They resided in the extinct volcano to be away from human eyes.

     The roses were beautiful. The Clan garden boasted a huge variety. She sat among them for a time, enjoying their fragrance and contemplating things.

     Marilla nearly forgot herself and hurried back inside before sunset awoke the gargoyles.

     Tali greeted her with a “good evening” at her awakening. “Did you sleep well? You were already asleep when I returned and I didn’t want to wake you.”

     “I slept well. Was a decision made?”

     Tali smiled at the human’s anxious question. “Yes. There will be a formal announcement soon but you have been given consent.”

     “Wonderful! Thank you so much!” Marilla beamed, and would have hugged the female gargoyle if she had not thought it would be inappropriate.

     Reneyl entered then. “We are expected outside. I hear that a decision was reached; a good one.” He smiled as the hearsay was confirmed on Marilla’s face.

 

     “Marilla Collins, it has been decided that you may pass your station on to your child, Shandra, if and when you feel she is ready to accept such a responsibility.” Bradier announced to all, focusing on her. “This may be no earlier than the child’s age of fifteen human years. Before that time, we must be kept informed of the child’s progress. If you or I at any time can prove doubt in the child’s ability to accept the role and all it entails, this matter is ended without further discussion. Do you agree to this?”

     Bradier was a hard dealer, and shrewd, but he was only trying to protect his Clan. That’s also what she wanted. “I agree.”

     The Clan leader nodded. “It is agreed. To let us know a little about your child, tell us a tale or two.”

     So passed the night for the relieved woman.

     A little before dawn, she gathered her things, thanked all in the Clan whom she passed, and Reneyl transported her not only over the rim of the extinct volcano but a mile in toward the nearest town, to save her some walking. Thanking him profusely, she urged him to go before the sun caught him out. She turned and started home, not needing to watch him go this time.

 

Summer, August 4^th, 1975

 

     Shandra couldn’t sit still. It was evening, her fifteenth-birthday gifts lay spread all over her bed, but there was one more gift left before the day was gone. Mom said it was a very special gift. So she waited until after the party, and after the cake and ice cream, and after dinner! All the while, mom just smiled and smiled like a billionaire. She knew mom hadn’t forgotten so—

     Her mother peeked in quietly and entered, closing the door. She smiled down at her only daughter playing with her new dress, school clothes, roller skates, and Star Wars Princess Leia. Shandra immediately jumped up from the bed, her skates pounding the floor. She rolled over to hug her mother.

     “Thanks, mom.” Shandra said in the squeeze.

     Mom just kept smiling as she held her at arm’s length. “You’re getting so tall! And so grown-up. The gift I have left is a lot more grown-up than what you have here.”

     Shandra couldn’t guess what it could be. She did like what Charlie and Brett gave he as presents, but it was mom who knew what she always wanted. Mom understood her “mixed-up tom-boy ways”. Mom always understood.

     But for once, Dad had gotten her just what she’d wanted. New clothes and skates; from mom and dad. What else did mom have up her sleeve?

     Marilla’s smile beamed. “We’re going on a trip-- just the two of us-- for a whole week. Easter’s coming up. That’s when we’re going.”

     “Where! Where!” Shandra jumped up and down excitedly. Go on a trip? With just mom??

     “That will be a surprise.” Mom winked. “So decide over the week what you’ll be wearing for fun and sun for a whole week.”

     Marilla smiled maternally at her clever daughter. “Yes. That’s one stop. You’ll have to wait to hear about the others.”

     “Aw, mom. Please? I won’t let on that I already know. You know I can keep a secret.” she tried.

     Grinning, Marilla answered, “Yes, I know. But I really can’t tell you yet.”

 

     Marilla observed her daughter in everything she did, watching anxiously for any indication that Shandra wouldn’t be able to handle it. She waited and watched as they started out by car.

     It was at the beach that Marilla found no better time or place to open the subject. The day was quiet and warm and no one was near. She turned over on their shared blanket, looking once more on her daughter as the girl worked on getting a tan.

     “Shandra?”

     “Hm?”

     “Do you remember the stories I used to tell you?”

     “Yeah.”

     “What did you used to think about, when I told you those stories?”

     She shrugged behind her sunglasses. “I don’t know. I guess I always imagined how neat it would be to go on adventures with gargoyles and see ‘em and stuff.” She propped herself up on her elbows and looked at her mother, pulling the sunglasses away from her eyes. “Those stories were really good, mom. I haven’t thought about ‘em in a little while but maybe you should write ‘em down and try and get ‘em published. I bet you could.”

     Marilla chuckled at the idea, for she didn’t consider them her stories. “I don’t need to write them down, Shandra. But I am curious… Would you still like to meet a gargoyle?” She eyed the girl with all-seriousness.

     Shandra regarded her mother with the doubt and judgment of her age. “Mom, those were just stories.”

     “They were stories, Shandra, but I didn’t make them up. I lived them. What if I told you that gargoyles don’t exist just in stories; that they are alive, and real, and not too far.”
     The girl blinked at her, too stunned to speak. Was mom nuts?? Or… She was so serious.

     “Think about it.” Was all her mother said before rising and starting for the blue water that never ended.

     Marilla told herself that she was worrying over nothing. She knew Shandra. She’d see the girl not shed a tear at breaking her arm, hold her own against two older brothers, and maintain good grades in school. This shouldn’t be any trouble for her… But there was always the possibility. No. Doubt won’t help now; only hinder. And—

     “Mom?”

     She turned. Her daughter stepped into the ocean, a little unsure. But it was not because of the water.

     “Mom, you’re saying that gargoyles are real? You didn’t make them up?”

     Marilla smiled, nodding to dispel the child’s remaining doubt. “Would you like to hear another story?”

 

     “So that’s how you found out?” Shandra asked as they sat on the warm sand together. “Mom, this is really amazing!”

     Marilla glanced about, hushing her daughter.

     “Oh. Sorry…” She lowered her voice. “Then this is my real birthday present, isn’t it. I’m really going to get to see one!”

     Marilla was much relieved to hear her daughter’s excited tone. “Don’t forget; they’re a people, Shandra. Very much like you and me. And, yes, you’ll get to meet several. I’ve told you about them. Reneyl and Tali and the others.”

     “The Reneyl??”

     The mother chuckled. “He’s not a movie star! Yes. ‘The’ Reneyl.”

     Shandra paused. She asked quietly, “What about dad?”

     Marilla sighed. “Your father and brothers would never understand. I could never tell them. That’s why I swore never to tell a soul. You have to swear never to say a word to anyone about this.”

     The girl nodded, understanding perfectly.

     “Alright. There is something else you must know. Twelve years ago, I went on a trip. I know you don’t remember, but I went to see the gargoyles at their home. I asked if you could meet them and become a contact—a person who gives them help if they need it. It’s nothing huge. I’m their contact. Oh, don’t look so surprised. There are many things you don’t know about me yet. And most of what I do for them is small—bring them little things, information and news, things like that. You may not have the job unless you convince me and them that you can handle it. I know you can, but if you do want it, you must prove it to them.”

     Marilla could see it all sink into her daughter’s head. She wasn’t overwhelmed. No. Perhaps a little disheartened that these now-real childhood people may reject her if they didn’t like her. She was quiet a moment; then,

     “Mom? How do I do that? How did you do it?”

     “The gargoyles can’t survive if they put trust in the easily frightened, greedy, or evil. They can’t trust anyone who also can’t be tactful or keep a secret. The gargoyles must be very good judges of character. Reneyl believed me to be a good person and proposed the idea to the Clan.” She chuckled at the memory. “He told me it was a bold move, and it took a little while, but as some got to know me, they outweighed the others who did not trust me. In time, the role was so natural that the untrusting had to concede that I’d do no harm. I am their first and only contact. But, you see, Shandra; there isn’t any one way to gain someone’s trust. I know you’re right for the job. You be yourself and they’ll see it, too.”

     The girl nodded her understanding. “When will we go?”

     “We can leave tomorrow if you’re ready. It’ll take two hours to drive and a long walk. I can answer any questions you have, or we could talk some more if you don’t think you’re ready. I just want you to be sure.”

     The girl looked somehow much older. It was her smile. As if she knew exactly what would come next. No doubt or second thoughts.

     “I am, mom. I am.”

 

     Reneyl forced himself to sit down. Their two guests were late. It was the appointed night but over half gone. He knew he shouldn’t even be worrying. Perhaps the traffic. But their vehicle could have broken. Marilla said that happened once. But it could also be that her daughter hadn’t taken well the gift given her. He sighed, the sweet-smelling roses doing little to calm him. Perhaps he should join patrol, or go looking for her. Where could they be?

     The rest of the Clan were milling about the courtyard, waiting and nervous.

     An hour more and he could fight it no longer. Reneyl told Tali before heading up in search.

     There were seven out tonight. He veered to the closest, clearly White-beak with his twin tails and pale skin. His quick brother spotted him and slowed his sweeping glide to answer Reneyl’s querying look.

     “No sign.” White-beak called over the whistling air.

     Reneyl nodded and moved on, trying a lower glide as all the others were high above for viewing the most terrain. Perhaps they were keeping to the trees for some reason. There certainly were many about. He should have asked where the others were looking but no one was in sight now. And still no sign of Marilla or her daughter.

     “Reneyl!”

     He looked up at the call. Diagoni, of the younger generation, was angling quickly toward him. He kept his level as the yellow female matched him side-by-side.

     “I’ve spotted two humans and you’re the closest.” She sounded excited and pleased at her find. “I can’t identify them.”

     “Show me.” At last! This must be them. he thought, following Diagoni as she arced over a group of trees.

     Reneyl spotted the two easily but understood Diagoni’s uncertainty. It was Marilla, in her favorite yellow dress, and the other must be Shandra, but Marilla was not walking on her own.

     “Go. Tell the others. It’s them.”

     Diagoni spun nearly on her tail-tip as Reneyl folded for the short dive.

     He landed in view a short distance ahead of them, aware that he might startle the girl but he could have also done so by stepping out from the trees. That wasn’t his larger concern right now.

     She was startled by his abrupt appearance but nothing more.

     “What is wrong?” he asked of the pair, for daughter supported much of her mother’s weight, Marilla leaning heavily on her shoulder.

     The woman’s head came up at his voice and she smiled in great relief. “Reneyl. I knew you’d come. Just a little too much sun. I won’t be doing any running today.”

     He glanced at Shandra. The girl looked worried and frightened. “I will take you to a hospital.” He stepped forward to take her but Marilla summoned the strength to stand shakily and avoid his assistance.

     “No.” was her adamant reply. “That won’t be necessary. I apologize for being late, and I’ll apologize to the Clan, but we are going to your home. I… just need to sleep.”

     The girl spoke up. “Reneyl? I’ve already tried. She wouldn’t let me do anything but help her get to your Clan. She collapsed two miles back and she kept saying she’d be all right in a minute but she’s almost too weak to stand. I… I don’t know what to do!”

     The girl was on the verge of tears but held them sternly back. He nodded, placing a comforting hand on her other shoulder, noting that she did not react at all. “I will take her to the Clan home.” Unfortunately, he could only safely carry one—

     White-beak, Diagoni, Ezah, and Tall Flower landed amid their little group.

     Reneyl picked Marilla up in one swift move. “We will take them to the Clan.” If they saw her unwell, they may not agree to allowing her stay. Humans who were sick needed medical attention or they would not heal. Any gargoyle knew this.

     He nodded to White-beak, the others climbing nearby trees to gain air for gliding, before looking for his own boost.

     Marilla in his arms released a weary sigh. “Thank you.”

     White-beak, on the ground, waited for the girl to approach him. She did not at first move, still watching where Reneyl had gone with Marilla, but then she turned to him. Her worry was a surprise.

     “There’s something wrong with my mom. She’s very weak and she blacked out as we were walking. I had to half-carry her all this way and she wouldn’t turn back and… “ The words escaped her. Shandra sank to the ground with a harrowed sigh. She didn’t know what was gonna happen now, so she looked up at the gargoyle whom she knew from mom’s stories. “You’ll take care of her, won’t you?”

     “We will. Whatever she would like, she will have.” He paused, then added, “This night holds great importance to her.”

     Shandra nodded and stood. She didn’t wanna screw it all up by yappin’ at him and really being late.

     Shandra looked over at him curiously before approaching. “You’re White-beak.”

     He gave her a beaky smile and bowed. “That I am. Marilla has told you much about us; as she has told us many stories about you, Shandra.”

     She stood before him. “Uh… Are you gonna pick me up like Reneyl did with my mom?”

     “No.” He turned his back to her, another grin on his face. “Climb on. I may not be as tall as Reneyl but I am just as strong.”

     Shandra complied as he bent down a little. She put her arms over his shoulders and gave a little jump, and she found herself on the back of a warm-skinned gargoyle. The idea struck her kind of fast. Even faster than how White-beak started running for the nearest high spot to jump from. She was bounced a bit, and held her own against the tree branches as the gargoyle climbed.

     “Don’t be afraid in the air. I will never let you fall.” was his assurance in the pause as he spread his pale wings.

     “Okay.” She tightened her grip and felt a securing hand on her back before he leaped out.

     For a girl who had never been on a plane before, the sensation of gliding she’d imagined was a little off. Oh, boy, was it thrilling! But not quite like being on a roller coaster, either. They were dipping and diving and rising, and he was going so fast! She’d self-studied about aviation and flight a few years ago; probably because of mom’s gargoyle stories. White-beak really knew how to use the air currents well because they were soon approaching the extinct volcano mom had described. And the others weren’t far ahead. She couldn’t see Reneyl’s dark body but the yellow girl gargoyle and the tall brown one that Shandra couldn’t remember her name plus three others were visible in the air. They crested the volcano’s rim almost together. Shandra could feel muscle and tendon working as White-beak slowed first their approach, and second their descent into the courtyard below… It was all very real and much more beautiful in its simplicity than in her imaginings of such a place.

     White-beak’s landing was gentle. He bent down again so she could hop off and Shandra found herself faced in all directions by gargoyles of every type and color. There… there had to be almost a hundred! And mom was beside her, an arm around her shoulders and smiling happy as a billionaire. Reneyl followed as if to catch her but she seemed sturdy against the sea of faces. One of which stood out and stepped forward. She had to remind herself not to stare, especially not at this gargoyle. Mom had her memorize that first day what the Clan leader looked like. Bradier was dark blue, had very long, black-purple hair, a great assortment of horns, and he never smiled. Mom’s description was dead-on.

     “Clan Leader,” mom started in the silence. “this is my daughter, Shandra Collins. Shandra, this is Clan Leader.”

     The gargoyle stood very close to them and he was at least as tall as the brown lady from earlier so Shandra had her head tilted back to maintain eye contact.

     He nodded curtly. “Bradier. You are allowed to use my name.”

     “Good evening, Bradier.” Shandra managed before the intimidating leader. She even bowed a little, like White-beak had. He did not respond.

     “Forgive our lateness. It was my fault. We had a lot of trouble getting here.” Marilla explained.

     “I see.” Bradier looked Shandra over, obviously sizing her up. “Let us talk a while, Shandra.” He started away, expecting her to follow.

     The girl glanced at her mother and got a smile and a nod. Reneyl’s hand on her mom’s shoulder told her he’d take care of her. Shandra turned and trotted after Bradier.

     She stayed several feet back of his ball-and-spikes tail as it swayed behind him. The girl didn’t know if she was allowed to walk beside him and so did not.

     He led her to a sort of alley or corner and motioned for her to sit at the bench there. She did so, trying not to look like she was looking around but she was. Everyone seemed to have disappeared.

     “What is your full name, girl?” He remained standing in front of her.

     “Shandra Renee Collins.”

     “And what do you believe a gargoyle is?”

     She blinked. “Well… You’re a gargoyle. You have wings, and a tail, and most seem to have horns. You’ve got hands and feet for climbing and running and you’re really strong.” But then she realized that her answer was wrong. Bradier’s lack of expression and expectant stare confirmed that. He was testing her! What was her answer? A physical description. He probably wanted something else… “A gargoyle thinks different than humans, too. They are more loyal and trustworthy than humans, as a whole—so I hear. I’ve only seen you for a few minutes but I believe that’s true. You all work together real well. So I’d have to say that a gargoyle is somebody I’d want to have as my friend.”

     She surprised him! She saw his eyes widen a little at that last part. Containing her triumph, she waited for his next question.

     “What was the last story Marilla told you of us?”

     “Um… I think it was Reneyl and White-beak’s story. How they got to be friends. Or… or maybe the one where Kinloch played fetch all night and didn’t want mom to go? Sorry. She hasn’t told me any stories in a long time.”

     “Why is that?”

     “Because when you’re a kid and you get older, you don’t wanna hear about the stuff that isn’t real. You wanna see, hear, and feel the world. Made-up stuff doesn’t compare to real friends or going skating or even going to school. You may want it to be real but it wasn’t, so I moved on. But now you are real and it’s too amazing! I’m tryin’ hard to remember all the stories.”

     “Why didn’t you believe that gargoyles were real all this time?”

     “Well, I sorta did, for a little while. I asked mom once or twice and she used to smile and say ‘Maybe.’ but that’s when I was five or six. I sorta believed gargoyles were real until I got to school. They read stories there, too, but when I asked if the monsters in the

book were real, the teacher told me ‘no’ and called me silly. I guess that’s when I realized. Every human ‘knows’ that ‘monsters’ don’t exist.” She felt comfortable enough to grin at the humor in mocking her own race. Maybe proving herself wouldn’t be as bad as she thought, compared to fifteen years of two older brothers.

     Two hours later, she was dismissed, after a reminder of what happens to gargoyles at sunrise. She hadn’t gotten Clan Leader to smile but she thought she impressed him.

     Mom wasn’t where they’d been at first coming. Shandra looked about for any assistance but nobody would make themselves available. Maybe they were inside? She peeked around the rock edge of the only entrance and found herself face to face with the white-glowing eyes of a creature bigger than she was! The girl almost fell on her rear in her haste to put distance between the gargoyle beast and herself. They weren’t dangerous if they knew and liked you, mom said. Shandra wasn’t sure of either one in this situation.

     She recognized it as Kinloch, the red and sea-green male. He was so tall, he came up to her chest! And between his legs, a much smaller, peachy-colored one stared out at her, waggling a shaggy but spiked tail. The… pup? It was as big as a border collie! It stepped out reservedly to look her over. When she didn’t move at its scrutiny, it came closer to sniff her up and down. Graceful as a cat, Kinloch leaped forward, but she didn’t move this time. He was a very forward animal and pushed at her arm, gently, with his bird-like beak.

     “Do you want me… to pet you?” she asked. Mom said they were smarter than most human-known animals. She reached out slowly and Kinloch came up under her hand. The girl grinned, recognizing this behavior. She gave the gargoyle beast a few scratches, feeling his feathery fur rise, like it had goose bumps.

     The pup got uninterested in her and started playing with dad’s similar-looking tail. When the pup bit down a little too hard, he turned to reprimand it with a short screech. Lifting his head to the air, Kinloch let out a series of hoots. Shandra had never heard anything like it—maybe in her imagination of what a dinosaur sounded like. In response, the mom gargoyle beast (she couldn’t remember her name) padded over from somewhere, grabbed the pup by the scruff, and trotted inside the inner volcano. Kinloch turned and left, too.

     Shandra started in to look, as well, when a rough hand grabbed her shoulder and turned her around. She faced an old female gargoyle that mom also made sure she memorized. Okaiu!

     “Where are you going?” the old gargoyle demanded.

     “I’m looking for my mother, elder Okaiu.” She cast her eyes aside. This was definitely not a person you wanted to get caught staring at.

     Use of name and title surprised the old one. “You know who I am?”

     “Yes, elder.” She nodded. Something came up under her hand and when she looked, Kinloch’s glowing eyes were pointed at the old gargoyle. A strange sound came from the beast—a cross between a growl and a chirp.

     Okaiu didn’t get the chance to do or say anything further. White-beak emerged from the entrance and, upon seeing the situation, put himself between them. In a calm but angered voice, he stated, “Leave the girl alone.” before taking Shandra by the hand.

     She was led into the Clan’s home, down a level. He turned a more pleasant face and voice on her.

     “I have not eaten and thought perhaps that you would be hungry.”

     “Very!”

     He grinned at her enthusiastic reply.

     “I’ve just been too worried to notice, you know? Thanks… For back there.”

     He nodded as they entered the near-empty kitchen. “Your mother warned you about her?”

     She nodded, taking the plate handed to her. “How is my mom? Has she eaten? We didn’t get any lunch…”

     “Yes. And Reneyl said it’s the most he’s ever seen her eat.”

     Seated at a bench and table, her plate full of steamed roots and meat that White-beak called ‘ground-fowl’, she ate like a starving animal while he talked.

     “Your mother is much improved now that she’s eaten. Reneyl and Tali are with her. She’s resting in a bed.”

     “You have beds?” she asked around a stuffed mouth.

     He chuckled. “No, but twelve years ago, it was decided that, since your mother visited us every two months, someone should figure out how to make one. It was very funny. The first attempt was destroyed because everyone, including our pets, wanted to try it out. Beds are most uncomfortable if you have tails and wings but they were all curious. A hundred gargoyles trying out one bed was too much. But there are two beds now. One for each of you.”

     Shandra finished off her meal quickly, anxious to see her mother. Dishes cleaned and replaced, White-beak led her back down another level where the air was warmer, not colder. He assured her that it was heated by the planet’s gases and not volcanic heat, released in vents that did not go into these rooms. Just around them.

     In a room with small torches and no doors (she hadn’t seen any doors here yet), Reneyl and the lime-green gargoyle Shandra knew as Tali sat on one bed talking to her mom, laying comfortably in the other. They were talking about Bradier when White-beak led her in.

     Mom waved at her and smiled, giving the girl much relief.

     “How’d it go?” Marilla asked as her daughter came around to hug her.

     “No. First tell me how you are.”

     “I’m fine. Just tired. So what happened?”

     “Well, talking with the Clan Leader was easier than I thought.”

     “Easy?” was Tali’s amused comment.

     “Yeah. He just asked me questions. I did most of the talking. You were right, mom. I don’t think there’s any way to make ‘im smile.”

     The girl’s rueful tone sparked laughter in the room. This is how she’d imagined it. Her wish had come true. Shandra would pass the gargoyles’ judgment, if she hadn’t already, and become their new contact. She only wished it would have happened sooner, or her troubles later, so that she could share in this joy a little longer. But there was something missing…

     “I’m sorry, Shandra. The first gargoyle you see and he runs off without proper introductions because of me.” She sat up in the bed. “You’ve already acquainted yourself with White-beak, I see. He’s the best listener and a great advocate.” She turned from complimenting the pale gargoyle to the black and white male she knew so well. “And this, Shandra, is the Reneyl.” The mother grinned. “He’s my closest friend, of any race or species. He always does for others before himself. And beside him is his one and only, Tali, who tends to keep his worrying side at bay.”

     The female gargoyle nearly giggled at the accurate summation of her personality.

     “She’s the first to laugh and the last to drop a point. They and the others are all very special to me. I hope they’ll be special to you, too.”

     “They already are, mom.” Shandra stood. “Thank you all for helping my mom. I hope I’ll be able to help you and spend more time with you. I don’t think I’ve been happier to meet anyone.” She attempted to express her gratitude on face and in voice.

     “You have your mother’s gift for words, Shandra.” Reneyl said.

     “Thanks.” she smiled shyly at his compliment.

     Marilla hated to break up this moment but… It would be better now than later. “If I may, I’d like to speak to Shandra alone for a moment.”

     Tali spoke first. “Of course.” She rose and started out but paused as a frowning Reneyl didn’t follow. White-beak left without a word and Tali soon followed, tugging Reneyl along.

     Marilla gazed at her daughter, smoothed a few errant hairs from her child’s face. “You really like them, don’t you?”

     Shandra nodded with a smile. “It’s almost like I already knew them… What did you want to talk to me about, mom?”

     The mother sighed. “This may not be easy for you, but you must hear hit. I’ll tell you now why I’m so weak. Why I …couldn’t even keep going enough to give you a proper introduction to these people. My body is sick, Shandra. I’ve known for a while now. It’s just easier some days to hide what ails me.”

     “M-mom? Are you…?” She was trembling all over. No. It couldn’t be!

     Marilla nodded sadly. “I’ve been diagnosed with a debilitating disease. None of you kids have it, thankfully… Shandra?”

     The girl buried her face into her mother’s chest and held her tightly. Tears fell amid her sobs.

     “Shandra,” she stroked her child’s head. “I know you’ll get through this. You won’t need me. You’ll have them and they’ll have you. It’s your father I’m worried about. Right now, you and the doctors are the only ones that know but it’s getting harder to keep it hidden. I’ll have to tell him soon. Shandra? Do you understand all that I’m saying?”

     How- how could she be so calm?? This couldn’t be true. There had to be another reason for mom being so weak. But… what else could make a person collapse and look so frail, for no reason?

     The girl looked up into her mother’s quiet face, trying to be strong for the person that mattered most in her life. “I-I don’t want to, mom. But I do. I don’t wanna let you go!”

She broke down, unable to cut her sobs.

     She took the girl’s head in her hands. “I’m not dead yet! And it isn’t too painful, just frustrating. And I always seem to need more sleep.” The woman sighed.

     The girl immediately sniffed back her tears. “You need some sleep? Yeah, you do. You go ahead, mom. I’ll stay right here if you need anything.” She moved to the second bed and sat as if settling for a diligent wait.

     “Oh, no, Shandra.” Marilla smiled. “I’ll be fine! What’s more important is you strengthening ties with those gargoyles. Go on. I just need sleep.”

     “But—“

     “Go. I’m still your mother, aren’t I?” But that adamant voice wasn’t the most appropriate, either, for her daughter nearly started crying again. “Trust me, Shandra; nothing bad will happen. I promise.”

     The girl stood slowly. It was mom’s wish for her to make friends. She might not sleep at all if she didn’t go and do it. Mom was like that sometimes. “I’ll… be back soon. They go to sleep in a couple hours.”

     Marilla smiled maternally, nodded. She settled back into the bed as her daughter left and sleep claimed her mind nearly instantaneously.

 

     Concern for her mother and the thought of losing her haunted Shandra as she made her way out again. Distant high laughter invaded her thoughts and she dismally condemned such high spirits. There was nothing to laugh about right now.

     Even though mom wanted her to get to know the gargoyles right now, she couldn’t. Not after what mom told her… A look out at the carefree people outside and Shandra turned quickly to go find some dark hole. She couldn’t! Not right now. She didn’t want them to see her crying.

     Shandra found a dark corner to let the tears fall but it was not a quiet spot. She held her breath any time someone walked by, and she could hear someone talking outside—about her and mom, but only good stuff. The girl sighed, sniffing back tears. She wouldn’t have been much company anyw—

     Kinloch paused in his trot-by to stick his head in and have a look at her. Were gargoyle beasts smart enough to know when someone’s sad? she wondered. He slipped into her dark little niche, turned his glowing eyes to her, and sat beside her. Mom said once that Reneyl told her gargoyle beasts were very few in number, and the pup would be given to a different clan who had a girl to stop the breed from dying out—…

     It swelled up inside her again. How could this be happening to mom?! How could it be? And why??…

     Someone stopped just outside her darkness. She turned, startled. It was White-beak!

     “Shandra?” He frowned into the dark. “Why are you there?” His question was cautious, for he knew not what would provoke this hiding.

     She didn’t say anything. He couldn’t see her crying, could he? The girl wiped at her tears quickly. She shouldn’t be off in a corner her first night with the gargoyles. What would mom say if White-beak found her like this?…

     “He’s the best listener and a great advocate.”

     She looked up at the pale horned face as fresh tears came. “I… I needed someplace to be alone.” she sniffed. “But I think what I need is someone to talk to. I-I’m so scared!”

     The quiet gargoyle squeezed into the darkness, very much wanting to ease the child’s pain, but he must know why she is hurting. “Tell me what is wrong and I will do my best to help you.”

     Her tears long dry, Shandra was able to relate her mother’s condition and her own fears. She was trying very hard to keep her tears to herself when she realized that the gargoyles that walked passed were all headed inside.

     Shandra took a deep breath, rising in the dark. Talking with White-beak did help. Someone to talk to… “I should go back. Mom’ll wonder where I am, and you’re going to sleep.”

     “Shandra…”

     “Thank you. I hope we can talk again, about something better.” And she slipped out of the niche quickly, walking fast into the cavernous home.

     All of the gargoyles were going in, and she could see dusk creeping in over the black sky. Reneyl saw her and led her back down where mom was fast asleep. Shandra’s previous feelings returned and she stared long on her mother to make sure she was breathing.

     “Shandra?”

     She turned. Reneyl remained in the room.

     “The sun is coming. If you’d like to see me sleep?”

     Sleep? Oh! She nodded and gave him her full attention. Reneyl took a stance and put on a scary face, arms wide and wings spread. But he winked at her. And then, his body turned to stone. Just like that! Mom said that the scary face and threatening pose were to scare people away and maintain balance, ‘cause if they fell over, they’d break and maybe die.

     Everybody here was asleep but her.

     Shandra looked at her mother again. Sound asleep. She got up and sat beside mom’s bed. She was tired, too, but how could she sleep? First the gargoyles, then mom… The girl lay her head near her mother’s. It was so quiet, she thought she could actually hear the gas in the warming vents.

 

     When she woke up, one arm and both legs were asleep. She shook ‘em out and looked over at mom to dispel her fears. Still just asleep. She looked and saw Reneyl was, too. The girl looked at her watch. About three more hours of sunlight left. And she was starving! Could she go up to the kitchen and just get something?… One last glance at mom and Reneyl and she headed up.

     With the gargoyles asleep, she could go anywhere she wanted and they’d never know. Shandra looked up from the ground level and saw at least three more levels. It might be interesting to see what was up there… but it wouldn’t be right. They trusted her, and disappointing them would hurt mom. She’d never ever do that. Shandra headed to the kitchen.

 

     Marilla Collins awoke well-rested. She stretched lightly, testing her strength. She would be all right tonight. They’d had a very long day yesterday… But upon looking at Shandra’s bed, she saw it was empty.

     A mother’s immediate worry paused her breath. She quickly looked at her watch, rising from her bed. It was too close. She had to find her!

     “Shandra?” she called, exiting the chamber. “Shandra??” Her voice echoed in the silence. She picked up her pace. Shandra wouldn’t have gone wandering about… Would she? Marilla recalled well her little betrayal to this clan twelve years ago. That still nagged at her conscience. Was Shandra curious enough to repeat her mistake? “Shandra!”

     The girl came running out from the direction of the kitchen, nearly spilling what she carried in her haste. “Mom? What’s wrong?”

     She put a relieved arm on her daughter’s shoulder. “Did you just go to the kitchen?”

     The girl still bore a concerned face. “Yeah… I was getting you something when I heard you calling. Are you okay?”

     Marilla smiled. Had she really not trusted the girl? She was grown-up enough to handle almost anything. She’d get by her mother’s passing. “Yes. I wanted to find you before they wake up. It’s quite a sight to see, and I think it’s polite to be where you were when they went to sleep.”

     Shandra was also very intelligent. She quirked mom a smile. “You thought I was checking the place out by myself while everybody was asleep. Well… I thought about it, but what I thought was that it’d be bad manners. See? You raised me right.” The girl grinned and handed her mother the soup in the bowl she’d brought.

     “Oh, you!” She hugged Shandra to her and accepted the food as they walked back to the chamber. “To tell the truth, I was hoping you wouldn’t do what I did.”

     The girl’s mouth came open in awe. “What did you do?”

     And so she told her daughter of going up to see the doors on the third level, and of Vanguard and Bradier waiting there in stone.

     “I don’t know if they’re up there right now. I don’t want to know.” she ended solemnly.

     “But, mom, I heard laughing earlier. That means they still have kids here!” The idea amazed Shandra.

     Marilla sighed. “Yes, it does. The hatchlings are about ten now, I think. Remember that gargoyles age about half that of humans.”

     “Yeah. So do you think we’ll get to see them? You got to see one, didn’t you?”

     Marilla’s eyes stayed on the bed blankets were they were both sitting. Despite all the trust, there was still that. Shandra was merely echoing her own wishes. When Reneyl had told her of his and Tali’s first egg, she’d been so happy for them, and for the whole Clan, but the stone face that met her request to see the eggs reappeared firm in her mind. “No. We won’t get to see them.”

     The girl looked highly disappointed. “Why not?”

     “Humans are forbidden in the Rookery. No gargoyle will challenge that. I even doubt the children know we’re here. Young gargoyles are too curious for their own good, I’ve been told. If they grew up with the idea that humans aren’t dangerous, it would jeopardize the entire Clan. Maybe the entire race. I don’t think they’re taught that humans are bad but most likely how dangerous it is to know one.”

     Shandra put aside her down-cast feelings. “I understand. It’s easy to forget, though. I’ll try even harder not to forget.”

     A series of cracks broke the silence and both heads turned to Reneyl. He burst forth from stone sleep with a great roar that had Shandra covering her ears. It seemed to echo everywhere and change but it was actually the many other gargoyle voices all at once awakening.

     The pieces of stone skin flew in all directions and some even landed on the bed.

     Shandra blinked at the stretching black and white gargoyle. “Wow.”

     Marilla chuckled.

     Reneyl stepped forward, grinning. “A little impressed?”

     “Yeah! But what do you do with all this?” She picked up a fragment of skin.

     “Ah. We collect it and take the accumulation towards the back of our home. It breaks down easily with time and the wind blows it away.”

     Marilla’s brows rose. She’d never heard that. “It does?”

     “Yes. But—“

     “Reneyl?” a hesitant voice broke in.

     The three caught sight of Obess waving her rookery brother over. He joined her in the archway for a short conversation that was obviously not meant for human ears. Mother and daughter exchanged surprised looks.

     Only a minute passed and Reneyl came back in. He no longer looked happy.

     “I’m sorry but you must remain in here tonight. We can get you anything you like.”

     A fear grabbed Shandra. She’d thought about exploring but she hadn’t! Had she done something else wrong and not know it? In her worried thoughts, mom beat her to the question.

     “Why, Reneyl?” She was just as shocked as her daughter.

     “I’m sorry. I’d nearly forgotten. The children are let out every fourth-night at this age. Tonight’s the fourth night.”

 

     “White-beak, where’s Reneyl?” the little gargoyle’s hair-tipped tail swished in anticipation as her brothers and sisters hurried past to go out into the courtyard.

     “He can’t play tonight.” The two-tailed adult answered, counting the children as they left.

     “Why not?”

     Malvern answered with a distraction. “You’d better hurry and play, Jade Griffin. Tonight’s the only fourth-night this week.”

     With one last glance at White-beak, the dark green child hurried off to join the fun.

     But it wasn’t much fun when she didn’t know where Reneyl was. Maybe he’d come out and play later. He usually showed up some time every night to say good evening.

     “Jade Griffin!”

     She looked for the caller, recognizing the urgent voice. Junan waved at her to follow him. She stopped her dirt-drawing and followed her rookery brother curiously.

     “Come over here so nobody hears us.” he said, leading her into one of the niches of the not-so-smooth rim wall and trying not to look like they wanted to be alone. That would just bring other curious siblings, or worse, adults, over to investigate.

     “What is it?” the dark green female asked, her tail snaking excitedly. Junan always had neat stuff to say.

     The green-blue male looked about, extra-cautious. “Nobody’s gotta hear, okay? Promise. I’m only tellin’ you ‘cause I gotta tell somebody and I know you never tell anybody but Reneyl anything. But you can’t even tell him. Understand?”

     What could be so big? She couldn’t even tell Reneyl! “Um… Okay. I promise.”

     “Okay…” He made a huddle of them before continuing. “I heard Kep talking to Diagoni. You won’t believe what they’re talking about!”

     His excitement was contagious. “What??”

     “Humans! One of ‘em was here!” His whisper nearly squeaked out.

     “Here?!” None of her siblings had ever seen a human, but Reneyl told her once about he one that had seen her.

     “But that’s not all of it. Before they left, I heard ‘em talk about when ‘they’ll be leaving’. The human’s still here, and there’s more than one!”

     Jade Griffin inhaled her surprise. There were humans on the Clan grounds, somewhere, right now!

     “And they have to be good because Kep and Diagoni were chattering about the one they saw. It was a girl! Jade Griffin, there’s a human kid here, right now! Isn’t that amazing??”

     She nodded, unable to find the words to express her awe.

     “D’you wanna come with me an’ try an’ find ‘em?” he proposed.

     Her mouth dropped open. “Junan…”

     “What? It’s not like they’re any old human. The adult one’s gotta be our human contact—the one we’re never allowed to see even though the Clan trusts here to come here.”

     “Junan, I don’t think you should…”

     “Aw, I know the adults say we aren’t ready to see any humans but the Clan contact knows all about us. And since when does ‘I don’t think I should’ stop me?” He put a thumb-talon to his chest, half-challenging. “Aw, c’mon. If we’re real careful, we won’t get caught. Don’t you wanna see a young human, if not any human?” he tried.

 

     Shandra’s mind wandered off again, uninterested even in more of Reneyl’s real-live gargoyle stories. Mom seemed okay, but her face was pale and she looked thin. Was it only because mom told her… told her that she was sick?… Shandra let out a low sigh. It was too hard to think about, let alone believe.

     Reneyl had stopped talking and both adults were staring at her.

     “Eh… Perhaps I have been talking too long. Dawn comes soon and you’re probably both tired. Would you like anything to eat before then?”

     “Yes. Thank you.” Marilla answered and the gargoyle left.

     “I bet he brings back soup.” Shandra said, trying to provide humor and a smile when she didn’t at all feel like laughing. “Eating here makes me appreciate everything we have.”

     Marilla nodded, knowing what was really most likely on her daughter’s mind. But the girl didn’t seem inclined to talk about it yet. That’s alright. The time would come on its own.

     Raised voices and queries went up outside the chamber.

     “I wonder what’s going on.” Shandra said, rising.

     She crept up to the archway for a peek out when the abrupt interceding of Bradier’s torso startled her back.

     “What is it?” Marilla queried, alarm mounting.

     He turned his back on them and spread black wings wide, subsequently blocking the archway, their exit. “Two hatchlings have gone missing.” His voice remained neutral.

     Shandra looked to her mother, unsure of what to do.

     Marilla stood and spoke in a slightly aggravated voice. “Bradier, are we being confined to this chamber?”

     “The hatchlings cannot be allowed to see you.” And he spoke as solidly unmoving as he stood.

     Marilla took her seat once more, angry but thinking quickly.

     “Bradier, let me pass!” called an irritated if welcome voice.

     The Clan leader grudgingly turned aside to allow White-beak through but immediately returned to his previous position.

     Glaring at his leader’s back, White-beak turned in regret to the two guests. “I apologize. This is not a proper way to handle this. Reneyl has joined the search but dawn is fast approaching.” he told Marilla specifically. “It is believed that the two hatchlings overheard Kep and Diagoni speaking of you and went to find you on their own. They don’t know the innermost passages well and probably got lost.”

     “And you can’t even let us help you find two lost children?” Marilla broke in, her anger poking up. “Yes, I know. They can’t be allowed to see us. I understand, but locking us up in here during the day isn’t doing anyone good. Is your trust in me that poor? What do you think I’ll do while you sleep?”

     Bradier shuffled at the entrance, obviously blocking another from entering and not about to move again.

     “This is doing harm, not good, Bradier.” Marilla tried. Both Shandra and White-beak anxiously watched on, his two tails swishing opposite each other. “It only shows how much I’m not—“

     The gargoyles responding to the risen sun consequently turned to stone.

     “….trusted.” With a heavy sigh, she let her arms fall to her sides. She turned to her daughter. “I’m sorry about all this.”

     “It’s okay, mom.” Shandra walked over to White-beak, saw the expression on his face. “I don’t think even Reneyl and Tali would have been able to change much. This rule is very important and I don’t want to put an entire race of people in danger!”

     “I wasn’t suggesting that… This is so untrusting, and stupid! I was going to suggest we find the two missing children ourselves. We can continue looking while they are all asleep.”

     “But… Mom, won’t they get mad? And then they wouldn’t trust you anymore.” That threat worried her greatly.

     Marilla took her daughter by the shoulders. “Sometimes, Shandra, you have to stand up and do something, and accept the changes that result. I’m not going to sit in here all day with no food or water, and no sleep because I can’t stop thinking of those lost kids. Come on. There’s enough space between his legs for us to squeeze through, I think.” She indicated Bradier.

     Shandra didn’t say anything. Sure, she wanted to help. But the gargoyles didn’t want their help… She followed mom through the tight squeeze, only to find an irate-faced Tali locked in stone as her attempts to bypass her leader failed. Other gargoyles further down were frozen in positions of calling name, looking about, and such. At least they’d stopped walking before the sun hit them. Otherwise, they’d be off-balance and fallen over!

     “Where do you think we should look?”

     Shandra shrugged at her mother’s query. “We won’t get lost, too, will we?” she posed.

     Marilla smiled. “No. Trust your mother. Let’s go…” She pointed down a hall. “This way.”

     Trust. Trust mom to do what’s right. Yeah. She’d never let Shandra down before. The girl followed her mother into the unknown.

     It only took three hours after they’d decided to split up. That was scary, because Shandra had to make sure she didn’t get lost and she worried about mom. It was a hard three hours. But then as she was wandering toward a dead end, she walked past a couple of boulders. When she turned around, Shandra saw that the two weren’t rocks at all!

     “Mom! MOM! I found ‘em!!” she called excitedly.

     Marilla rushed to her daughter’s calls and she, too, bent down to study the small statues.

     “Oh, Shandra…” A familiar emotion rose as she caught sight of the face on the right. Just as if remembering her daughter’s first steps. “It’s her… It’s little Jade Griffin!”

     The girl’s mouth formed an ‘o’ as she bent down for a closer look at the famous child she knew from the thrilling story mother loved most of all.

     Shandra grinned and looked over at her squatting mother. “They both look like they know they’re in trouble.”

     Marilla nodded, rising. “Perhaps we’d better go back now, too. We can eat and be in before they wake up.”

     “Good idea.”

     When the gargoyles awoke, Marilla stepped forward and spoke to White-beak.

     “If you follow this map, you’ll find them.” She slipped him a torn piece of paper.

     He stared at it, then accepted the map with a nod before rushing out. Bradier no longer stood blocking the archway. He was staring hard at Marilla and Shandra. Tali entered then and could tell something had occurred but not what to create the tense atmosphere.

     “I’ve just told White-beak where they are. We found the children while you slept.” Marilla said to explain the female’s frown away. The call went up outside the chamber, confirming the accuracy of her directions, and that they’d found the two rogues.

     Tali blinked, looked between human woman and Clan Leader.

     “There was no time to suggest it…” Marilla tried for an explanation but the Clan Leader turned swiftly and left with no words.

     Marilla moved to a bed and sank down.

     “Mom?” The concerned Shandra was at her side instantly. Mom looked … defeated.

     “I’m fine. But he… he didn’t say anything.”

     “You did do a good thing.” Tali bolstered but looked more worried than convinced.

    

     Mom was pretty tired. She nearly fell over trynna keep awake til’ Reneyl showed up. She was finally convinced by Tali, who stayed with them, that she’d better sleep while she could. When mom fell asleep, Shandra asked Tali a question.

     “Can I go out tonight? We aren’t still being kept here?”

     Tali blinked. “I… I suppose. Yes. I say you can.” As the girl walked passed, the lime-green gargoyle paused her. “Just… be careful. White-beak won’t tell anyone but… I don’t know what the others would say if they knew.”

     “Don’t you trust my mom?”

     “We do. It’s just that… Our children are everything. We can be a little overprotective.”

     Shandra mostly understood. It’s just that … Why couldn’t they at least give mom a break? Because she’s— The girl halted her thoughts… No. Tali was right. Mom didn’t do anything to disturb the gargoyles’ beliefs because she respected them. She shouldn’t question them when she had more to learn about how they lived. She looked into Tali’s eyes and saw the look of a concerned mother. Part of that was for her, too. It was a surprise, because she hadn’t thought a gargoyle would care that much about her. Not yet, anyway. Shandra had to look away, tears threatening suddenly for a reason she did not at first know.

     “Okay. I won’t be out long.”

     At the archway, she looked about, waiting to see if anyone would stop her before she started out.

     They must not know. she thought. Some greeted her with a nod, others waved or did nothing. And that was it. But what she really wanted was to find Bradier. She asked the first somewhat-friendly face she saw outside the clan volcano. He pointed and she redirected her search.

     Bradier had just stepped beneath a ledged area when she spotted him. Shandra walked over quickly but he did not acknowledge her presence behind him, which he must have seen at her diagonal approach. He kept walking.

     “Clan Leader,” she spoke at his back. “please don’t be angry. My mom only wanted to help. Can’t you see how much she cares about you all? She—“

     He stopped, turned his as-usual stone-face upon the girl. “Take ease, child. I understand her intentions very well.” He let a pause fall, regarding the girl before him. And he continued quietly, “Someone informed me that Marilla needed assistance walking when you first arrived… I’m aware that your mother is not well.”

     Shandra swallowed hard. What did it mean, his knowing?

     But he said nothing further and turned away, leaving her very confused. He wasn’t angry. He sounded kinda… sad? How had he known? And… what should she do now? The girl just sat on the ground where she was, feeling as defeated as mom must have before. It was the first of many hard lessons, that Bradier was not easy to deal with for many reasons.

     Little time had passed when she saw White-beak looking around. Probably for her. She stood and jogged over to him.

     “All children are safely in the Rookery.” he informed her quietly. “Reneyl is dealing out punishments as we speak. To Diagoni and Kep, as well.”

     “What’ll happen to them?” How did gargoyles punish their kids? She didn’t know if she could ask that but that’s what she really wanted to know.

     “I believe your mother once called it ‘being grounded’.” He grinned. “Are you hungry?”

     “Nah. Drop-tired.” She started back inside and he followed.

     “I can imagine. We are from opposite lifestyles.”

     “No, not all that different.” she reflected.

 

     “They look entirely different when sleeping.” Remarked a thoughtful Barogue. He’d volunteered to deliver the message to White-beak and Reneyl, who stood in the chamber watching over the two humans. But he was well aware of politeness and rudeness and so made his leave.

     Both remaining gargoyles took a position beside each guest and woke them gently.

     Shandra woke easiest. Marilla stretched and smiled up at Reneyl before moving to sit up. “A decision’s been made.” she guessed.

     Reneyl nodded, breaking into the greatest of smiles. “I hope both of you will attend Winter Celebration this year.”

     Marilla turned a triumphant smile on her daughter before wrapping the child in a great hug. “I knew it!!”

     That was all Shandra needed to hear. But it was still too unbelievable! The gargoyles accepted her… They accepted her!!

     It was time to go a little later that evening. Shandra held her mother’s hand as they both thanked the gargoyles for their hospitality, and for accepting Shandra. It was brief parting, for then Reneyl bent down for Marilla and White-beak again stepped before her as the other two already began their ascent up the rim of the volcano wall. But the pale, shaggy-maned gargoyle didn’t at first take a position for her to climb onto his back.

     “How are you?” he queried in the pause.

     She gave him a smile. “Good. A lot’s happened but…” She stopped there, looked away before any tears could sneak out beyond the control she’d put up.

     He stepped forward and lay a taloned hand upon her shoulder. Even put a hand under her chin so their eyes met. “Don’t think about what can’t be. All of the time remaining, cherish with all your heart. Think instead of the times to come, when you’ll visit us together. Winter Celebration is at Fall’s end. You will both be welcome and you will have no greater fun.” he promised.

     Shandra nodded, needing to believe him.

     He knelt down and she hopped on so they could join the waiting pair above.

 

     White-beak’s promise did come true. Mom had been resting up quite a bit and had an excuse for dad about a ‘girl’s night out’. Reneyl and White-beak were again waiting just outside the city to convey them to the clan, fresh snow coating the ground. Wearing slightly heavy clothing and white ash on their faces customary to this clan’s holiday, they arrived amid smiles of welcome reflecting their own excitement. Spirits were high in all. Even Okaiu could find no complaint with the evening. Food, dance, and song filled the first-snow celebration, and contests of weaponry skill and gymnastic skill were carried, as well as a round of jokes. Reneyl, White-beak, and a few other jokesters led this rabble, winning hands-down with several human jokes that had both of their guests slipping out of their seats. Shandra saw something amazing in that instance and adamantly pointed out to her mother that Bradier had smirked! Really!

     It was truly the best night for both Marilla and Shandra. She’d never laughed so hard in all her life.