For a second the teenager was convinced that he was just seeing things. Seeing a big pink blob, to be specific. He was still sweltering. Robbie fanned himself weakly, tugging his black T-shirt away from his chest in an attempt to filter some air through it.

It took a moment before his eyes focused enough for him to tell that it was indeed a pink blob, but it was a pink blob of feathers that was talking to him. He started, jumping back and cutting runs into the sand with his heels.

"Get away!"

He panted, looking around for anyone else. Oh god, this had to be hell. The first thing he met here was big, fuzzy, and pink. He couldn't even wear his favorite article of clothing. He put a hand to his forehead, pushing lank hair out of his eyes.

"I don't need anybody's help."