C49 The Chaos in Black Tortoise Region

Outside, the night was a hazy blur, and the sweltering air turned Wexham into an immense sauna.

Inside the room, the air conditioning exhaled a refreshing chill, perfectly tempered. Under the blanket, neither Blaine nor Mrs. Zeller felt the heat rise, yet their bodies writhed as if seared by invisible flames.

Mrs. Zeller's grip on Blaine's hand was firm