(Heartfelt thanks to 'Feather Rain Flame', 'Youth in the Wind and Snow', 'Cuteness Is Truth', and 'A Person Who Likes Lolis' for their tips!)
The blazing sun mercilessly poured down its scorching rays upon the bustling streets.
On the pedestrian-filled street, Noah and Tina were walking together.
"Hehe~~"
Tina seemed to be in an exceptionally good mood. Humming a tune, she linked arms with Noah like a little girlfriend. The dazed look she wore during the day was gone, as was the coldness she displayed at night. All that remained was the cheerfulness and happiness of an ordinary little girl.
Ever since leaving the Sacred Residence, Tina had remained in this state.
Noah let the high-spirited Tina hold his arm. Seeing how delighted she was, he could not help but smile as he said something.
"What's got you so happy?"
"Of course, it's because I'm out on the streets with you, big brother." Tina answered without hesitation.
"Just knowing that you're by my side makes me very happy."
"Is that so?" The smile on Noah's face faded slightly, and he sighed.
"But we didn't come out to have fun. We have serious business to take care of, you know?"
"It's fine." Tina's mood did not falter in the slightest. She gave Noah a small smile.
"As long as I can be with you, big brother, it doesn't matter where we go."
As she said this, Tina tightened her grip around Noah's arm, as though trying to make her words more convincing. Her still-childish, pretty face overflowed with a happy smile.
Looking at Tina like this, Noah felt a surge of guilt.
He had been the one to bring this child into Fairy Tail and arbitrarily change her life, yet he had selfishly left her behind, making her struggle for the