There was a wrenching sensation, followed by gray cold nothingness, and then by awareness. Of immense energy and power gathering and rolling through a body that was huge, feathered. The wings outstretched, riding the thermals.
She faltered and immediately felt talons on her back, a gentle grasp meant to reassure and guide her. Ukiah. She flapped the magnificent wings to communicate that she was okay and felt him lift away from her.
She flapped again, more forcefully this time. Reveling in the increased speed, the feel of the air against her as she mentally explored every inch of the thunderbird. Found the spark of life in her womb and nearly dropped from the sky. But once again Ukiah's talons on her back steadied her focus.
With a fleeting thought she was aware of her human form in the building below. Her wrists freed, her back curled against Ukiah's chest, their breathing synchronized and deep as their spirits flew free.
Emotion surged through her. Raw and fierce. Rumbling out in front of her as thunder. A shout of triumph. Of joy. Of love. Of two souls united again.