Chapter 165: Memories of Bygone Days

*Saffron*

[Meanwhile, in Taahid]

I rested my head against the backseat car window and closed my eyes as Uneri drove through the desert.

***

[Approximately Eight Years Ago]

I smiled as I finished my paper mâché sculpture. It was in the shape of a raven.

"Nice piñata," a kid said, walking in.

I frowned. It was Rodrigo, a bully I'd butt heads with repeatedly. This time, he had brought friends with him.

I bit my lip as they walked over.

"Thanks for making it for us, loner," he said, grabbing the raven.

I looked at him, my eyes wide. "H-hey, give it back."

He grinned. "Ya want it back? Fight me."

I sighed and shook my head.

"Tch, weak."

I winced as they began to kick around my raven as if it were a ball.

"S-stop that!" I yelled.

"Make me, loner."