A Quiet Click

Darkness surrounded me, heavy and still. Then, a faint pulse stirred along my spine. I did not rush. I held my breath, testing the grip of my talons against the cool, firm plane beneath me. With measured care, I tilted my head downward. My beak descended slowly until its pointed tip met the surface. A crisp click echoed in the silence. I eased one wing slightly outward, feeling the delicate stretch of skin responding to my intent. A low, gentle hum vibrated in my chest. I can move, and I am awake.