The Making of a Gargoyle

Sure of myself, I take the final steps towards the cliff.
Stop for a moment, stretching my still unused, stiff wings on my back.
They feel strong.
After making a few flaps with my wings, I simply make the leap.
I felt my wings on my back, the reflex was instantaneous.
My wings did what they had to do, and I was up and flying.
I could feel my tail behind me, stretching out joyously behind me in the air.
At the moment, it felt as if I could stay up in the air indefinitely.
Then I thought better of it, even if it was exciting and exhilarating to fly.
Still I could not help myself, circling around under the great dome.
Then I descended upon the cliff from which my flight had begun.