The drizzle that had been pounding in the pool area slowly subsided, replaced by the sudden appearance of the sun. Gray clouds shifted quickly, allowing the harsh rays of light to hit the wet marble tiles. The temperature of the air shot up dramatically in an instant. A thin layer of steam began to rise from the floor, creating a stifling heat.
Seren lay there, her body motionless since she lost consciousness an hour ago. The scorching sun was beginning to exert its force. The shirt she clung to was beginning to dry, but it didn't bring any comforting warmth. The fabric had hardened, stiffened by the residual chlorine in the pool water, and now felt like rough bark against her sensitive skin.
Seren's heart beat slowly, but her head began to feel like it had been hit by a hammer. The sudden heat of the sun forced her blood circulation to a halt, creating a painful, rhythmic throbbing behind her temples.
