A Clumsy First Step

*Sigh.* Of all the postures to freeze in, I had to end up crouched awkwardly on the ground with my tail feathers sticking straight up. When I let out a low grumble, my beak actually parted, and cool air rushed in. I blinked my heavy eyelids and tested my balance, planting both white palms flat against the smooth surface beneath me. Pushing down, I managed to unstick my webbed feet and slowly shift my weight. The surface was cool, firm, and entirely quiet. Great. Now I suppose I have to figure out how to stand upright without toppling over.