Erza Scarlet, a solemn eleven-year-old, lingered near a corner of Fairy Tail’s boisterous guild hall, gripping a small sword, its edge traced absently. From a distance, she watched Cana Alberona flick cards in a smirking challenge, while Gray Fullbuster taunted her tricks, an ice shard glinting in his hand. Erza’s stern gaze softened with faint curiosity, her guarded heart stirring as their laughter echoed, a quiet step toward feeling at home in her new home.