To say that MacBeatha was pleasantly surprised by Lisa's seeming acquiescence, would be a gross under statement. The girl seemed almost in a trance as she climbed into the place between his wings, where Elspeth had usually ridden.
He decided to use her momentary calm to become airborne. Mighty leg muscles tightened as he launched himself into the air, and giant wings kept them easily aloft. He could feel Lisa tense, but she did not panic, as strongly beating wings carried them high above the land of Avalon.
MacBeatha rejoiced at the heady feeling of the wind carrying his body, it was so rare these days that he could indulge himself in this manner, and the extra weight of his rider was a joyful burden, that took his memories back to the days of old when he had first tried to carry a rider on his still immature body. He and Elspeth owed thanks to Niall, the Elven prince, who had kept them from certain harm. A chuckle rumbled from the great beast's throat, while his tail quivered in amusement.
Down below the ruins of a once mighty castle came into view. The desolation of the scene quickly stifled his joy. He remembered well that this once was a place of Elven splendor and it saddened him to see it abandoned and given to the ravages of nature.
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