The thunderous applause still echoed around the guild hall, ribbons of confetti raining down like a glittering storm. Krampus stood in the center of it all, still holding Laxus's hand. His face glowed with joy and gratitude, a broad, warm smile spreading across his muzzle as he looked at the guild he called family. Yet deep inside, beneath the happiness, a flicker of social nervousness stirred—his heart beating faster at the attention pressing in from all sides. His tufted ears twitched, and his fur rippled slightly despite his attempt to remain composed, something only Laxus, still holding his hand firmly, could feel and understand.
He was happy—deeply so—but the overwhelming energy of the crowd was starting to squeeze his chest. Still, Krampus was an old driver at this sort of thing; decades of courtroom debates and public hearings had trained him to appear calm under scrutiny. He kept his composure easily, smiling and waving with casual grace, the perfect image of calm joy. Inside, though, his nerves prickled faintly beneath his fur, his muscles just a touch too stiff to be truly relaxed. You'd never notice unless you were close enough to feel the tension—like Laxus, whose hand still clasped his and could sense the subtle tightness hidden beneath that confident exterior.
Laxus, ever observant, caught the faintest flicker of strain behind Krampus's radiant smile. He squeezed Krampus's hand gently, grounding him. "You're doing fine," he murmured low enough for only him to hear. "They're just proud of you. Of us."
Krampus exhaled slowly, his posture unchanging, expression still as calm and charming as before. "I know," he murmured back with a quiet chuckle that sounded effortless to anyone else. "It's just… quite the spotlight." His tail flicked once, betraying that faint tension only Laxus could sense through touch.
Before Laxus could say more, the guild door creaked open. The late morning sunlight spilled in as a group of familiar faces shuffled through the doorway—Gray and Lyon at the front, followed by Cana and Ultear looking half awake. Behind them came the new recruits: Erza, Kagura, Simon, Sho, Erik, Kinana, Macbeth, Sawyer, Jellal, Sorano, Yukino, and Millianna, all blinking groggily as the sounds of cheering and confetti cannons greeted them.
"Uh… is the party from last night still going?" Gray muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.
Erza blinked, confused. "Was there… another celebration?"
"Looks like we missed the second round," Lyon sighed, adjusting his scarf.
The guild immediately erupted into another cheer, which made the newcomers flinch. Krampus took the chance to lean toward Laxus and whisper, "Perfect timing. Let's slip away before they start another toast."
Laxus chuckled under his breath. "Got it."
Krampus stepped forward, his towering frame cutting through the festive crowd with practiced calm. "Good morning, young ones," he greeted warmly, his voice deep and steady despite the noise. "You've arrived just in time—though it seems Fairy Tail's spirit is still high from last night."
He gestured toward Cana and Ultear. "Cana, Ultear, I'll leave the girls—Erza, Kagura, Kinana, Sorano, and Yukino—in your care. Show them around, explain the guild rules, their dorms, and how to use their Fairy Phones to contact the elves and study magic. You're both quite capable."
Cana raised her tankard with a grin. "Leave it to us, Boss."
Ultear nodded with a calm smile. "We'll make sure they feel at home."
Krampus turned to the rest—the boys standing awkwardly in the entryway. "Gray, Lyon, Simon, Sho, Erik, Macbeth, Sawyer, and Jellal—come with me. We'll get you settled in at the Fairy Fraternity dorm."
Across the room, Makarov caught Krampus's eye and raised his tankard in salute. Krampus dipped his head respectfully before leading the group out with Laxus beside him.
"Congrats, Boss!" Erik called cheerfully as they walked down the hall. "You and Laxus, huh? Didn't see that coming!"
Gray snorted, amused. "Told ya Fairy Tail's not like any other guild. We don't care who you love—as long as you love loud."
Lyon smirked and added, "Yeah, that's what makes this place special. Everyone gets to be themselves."
The newer recruits, mostly from remote villages or smaller towns, exchanged uneasy looks. Sho blinked wide-eyed. "Wait, really? Nobody's… weirded out by that?"
Macbeth scratched his head, uncertain. "In our old town, that'd cause an uproar."
Gray grinned. "Welcome to Fairy Tail—where common sense gets tossed out the window the moment you walk through the door."
Laxus chuckled. "We're forward thinkers here. You'll see soon enough that we don't waste time judging what doesn't matter."
Jellal leaned closer to Sawyer and whispered, "The big lightning guy's really dating Santa?"
Sawyer whispered back, "Yeah, and Santa's a beast-man. This guild's something else."
"Not just any beast-man," Erik added under his breath with a teasing grin. "That's Santa Krampus. Big difference."
Sho blinked again, awe dawning on his face. "This is… kind of awesome, actually."
Krampus chuckled, overhearing their chatter easily. "And proud of it," he said with warm humor, his fanged smile gleaming as he glanced at Laxus, who looked smug and happy to have him by his side.
They soon arrived at the Fairy Fraternity dorm, a sprawling, enchanted structure shimmering with warm golden runes. The boys froze in awe.
"This is insane…" Simon breathed. "It's huge!"
Sho ran ahead, nearly tripping over his own feet. "Look at that fountain! It's sparkling!"
"There's even a sparring yard!" Macbeth added, eyes wide.
"And a whole library wing!" Jellal noted in awe, his scholarly instincts kicking in.
Krampus smiled softly at their wonder, his tail swishing with amusement. "Fairy Tail takes care of its family," he said warmly. "These dorms adapt to your intent—think of how you wish your room to be, and the magic will take care of the rest. Nothing is off-limits here. Express yourselves however you wish; that's the Fairy Tail way."
The boys shouted in amazement as they rushed in, the walls glowing and shifting to match their imaginations—Sho's room sprouting shelves of gadgets, Macbeth's forming shadowy curtains, Simon's filled with photos of Kagura, and Jellal's instantly manifesting a telescope and stacks of books.
Lyon gave a soft whistle. "Man, even I didn't get this kind of treatment when I joined."
Gray smirked. "Guess you weren't as cute back then."
Sho looked around in disbelief. "This is wild! Back home, our houses didn't even have plumbing, and now my room just built itself when I thought about it!"
Erik leaned against the doorframe, grinning. "Welcome to the big leagues, kid. Fairy Tail's way ahead of the times."
Krampus chuckled, his voice filled with fond pride. "Fairy Tail's strength lies not just in magic, but in how freely we live and support one another. You'll come to understand that soon enough."
Laxus folded his arms, grinning. "Told ya my boyfriend's a legend."
Krampus's mane fluffed slightly as he chuckled. "You overpraise me," he murmured, though affection colored his tone.
Laxus smirked. "Not enough."
Later, Krampus gathered them in the lounge, noticing Simon sitting quietly. He crouched beside him, his voice gentle. "You miss your sister."
Simon nodded. "Yeah… I wish we could stay together, but I know this'll be better for her."
Krampus gave his shoulder a reassuring pat. "She's in good hands. You'll still see her daily. This is how both of you grow."
Simon smiled faintly. "Thanks, Big Boss."
Krampus straightened and waved a hand. Golden motes appeared, swirling like snowflakes before coalescing into tiny chibi Krampus elves with jingling hats and bells. Each one was an exact miniature copy of him—black-furred, bright-eyed, and brimming with mischief. Some rode on tiny candy canes, others carried scrolls and glowing orbs.
The boys gasped in awe. Sho nearly fell backward, pointing. "They're you! Mini yous!"
Gray burst into laughter, while Lyon covered his mouth, amused. "Guess even Santa believes in delegation."
"These are Santa's elves—or rather, smaller versions of me," Krampus said proudly, his voice rich with mirth. "Each one carries a portion of my knowledge and spirit. They'll help guide you—training, rules, meals, chores, and even a bit of mischief if you need cheering up."
One of the chibis saluted smartly, puffing out its tiny chest. "Reporting for duty, Boss!" Another one tripped on its bell, earning laughter from the room.
Laughter filled the air as the elves began distributing sparkling Fairy Phones shaped like crystalline snow globes. The devices pulsed with a soft, comforting light that responded to each boy's touch.
Krampus raised his hand to quiet them gently. "Each phone links directly to your assigned elf mentor," he explained. "You can call for advice, report progress, or even ask for recipes. The elves will also monitor your magical growth and adjust your training schedules."
Sho grinned wide. "So it's like having a magical best friend-slash-teacher?"
"Exactly," Krampus said with a wink. "Just remember, they report back to me—so if you skip chores or overuse your magic, I'll know."
The boys laughed nervously, exchanging glances as the elves giggled mischievously.
Macbeth whistled. "So… we can just call Santa now?"
Krampus's grin widened. "Only if you've been good."
That earned another round of laughter, louder and freer this time. Even the new kids, still getting used to the strangeness of the guild, were glowing with excitement. For the first time, the sense of belonging hit them like warmth spreading through their chests.
Laxus leaned against the wall, watching quietly. His lips curved into a soft smile as Krampus's laughter filled the room, the air shimmering faintly from his divine magic.
'He's really something,' Laxus thought fondly. 'He doesn't just teach them magic—he makes them believe in themselves.'
In the Fairy Fraternity dorm's training hall, where Krampus stood before the gathered boys, his red cloak draped regally behind him. Around him, his chibi clones floated in neat formation, their small bodies glowing faintly with blue runic energy, ready to assist.
"Alright, everyone," Krampus began, his deep voice resonating through the hall like rolling thunder. "Today marks the beginning of your journey as proper wizards. What you learn here will be the foundation of all your future strength, so listen well and don't let your minds wander."
His piercing golden eyes swept across the crowd, making every boy straighten instinctively. The chibi clones saluted in unison, some hovering above the crowd with notepads, others spinning tiny runic projectors that bathed the room in warm blue light.
The boys sat cross-legged before him, wide-eyed with anticipation. Their expressions ranged from nervous excitement to utter fascination. Sho fidgeted, clearly eager to begin; Simon sat upright, trying to memorize every word; Jellal had already pulled out a notebook.
Meanwhile, Laxus, Gray, and Lyon lounged off to the side—relaxed, but still watching closely. They'd already learned these lessons, yet Krampus had a way of speaking that made old knowledge sound new again. His lectures were never stale; he spoke with charisma, humor, and the kind of conviction that made even veterans want to take notes.
Gray leaned toward Lyon and whispered, "Remember when we were the new kids sitting there?"
Lyon smirked. "Yeah, and he still makes it feel like the first time."
Krampus snapped his fingers, and the chibi clones projected shimmering illusions across the air—glowing diagrams of bodies, souls, and swirling streams of magic. One of them even puffed out its tiny chest and said, in a squeaky voice, "Welcome to Wizardry 101, taught by the Big Boss himself!"
The boys laughed, and even Laxus chuckled, shaking his head fondly as Krampus shot the clone a mock glare before continuing his grand lecture.
"Let's start with something fundamental," Krampus said, pacing slowly with his hands clasped behind his back. "Inside every living being exists a magic container. It's not something you can touch or see—it's a metaphysical existence born from your very soul. It is the heart of your potential, the vessel that holds every drop of your magic and connects that power to your body."
He gestured with a hand, and a chibi clone projected an illusion of a glowing sphere resting within a silhouette's chest, golden energy pulsing through imaginary veins. "This container is the core of what makes you a wizard. It stores, refines, and regulates your magic. It's both delicate and mighty—a reflection of your inner self."
Jellal's eyes gleamed as he leaned forward, curiosity shining. "So everyone has one, right?"
"Indeed," Krampus nodded, his halo flickering faintly as he spoke with calm authority. "Technically, every being in this world possesses magic and a container. It's just that most never realize it, because it sleeps quietly within the soul until something awakens it. In theory, anyone could become a wizard, but only around ten percent can truly master the process. Talent, discipline, and opportunity play a big part."
He paused, his tone softening. "Many people live their whole lives never knowing they carried such power inside them. Sometimes it takes tragedy, determination—or even a little push from fate—to wake it up."
Sho whispered in awe, "So even normal folks could've been mages if they just… awakened it?"
Krampus smiled kindly. "Exactly, Sho. The spark is there in everyone. The question is—will you learn to see it, or let it fade unnoticed?"
One of the clones projected an image of the world map, highlighting Ishgar in shimmering gold light. "On this continent, the Magic Council Academy is the largest and most prestigious institute for training mages," Krampus explained as his tail flicked lightly behind him. "It's the pride of the Council—an academy designed to raise wizards who will serve as Rune Knights, magitech researchers, and magic engineers for the administration. Its graduates form the backbone of official magic in all of Ishgar."
He gestured, and the projection zoomed out, revealing smaller glowing dots scattered across the map. "Aside from the Council's Academy, there are private schools, monasteries, family traditions, and of course—the countless magic guilds that define Ishgar's vibrant culture. Guilds are where true diversity of magic thrives. They are families, not factories."
Lyon raised a hand, curiosity in his tone. "And our kingdom?"
Krampus smiled, his fangs glinting faintly. "Ah, Fiore, our blessed homeland. The royal family here has long favored magic. A century ago, when other nations waged endless wars, our kings and queens made a radical decision—to stay neutral. That one act turned Fiore into a haven for wizards, craftsmen, and scholars alike."
He raised a clawed hand, conjuring an illusion of Fiore bursting with magical lights, cities and villages shining with energy. "Today, around seventy percent of our people can use minor magic in daily life—farmers enhance their soil, blacksmiths temper steel with flame runes, and even children use small charms for play. Of those, twenty percent are what we call true wizards—individuals trained in guilds or academies, wielding enough strength to shape the world around them."
Sho's jaw dropped. "Seventy percent!? That's like… everyone!"
Gray grinned proudly. "And out of all those guilds, we're still number one."
Krampus chuckled, his grin turning smug. "Damn right we are. Fairy Tail stands unmatched—in strength, camaraderie, and knowledge. Once, the Tower of Knowledge in Desierto was said to hold the largest magical archive in all of Ishgar…" He paused dramatically, spreading his arms wide, his halo flaring. "But who am I? I'm Krampus! With my additions and donations, our guild library could make that tower look like a children's bookshelf! We've got grimoires, enchanted scrolls, even fragments of lost magics thought extinct for centuries!"
The boys erupted in laughter and awe. Sho whispered to Simon, "Our guild's basically the greatest school for magic in all Fiore!"
Simon snorted. "More like the library of gods."
Krampus gave a proud, rumbling laugh. "Damn right, boys. Knowledge is our greatest treasure—because strength without understanding is just destruction waiting to happen."
The class went silent for a moment, each boy absorbing the gravity behind his words before Krampus's grin returned, bright and confident. His presence seemed to fill the room, both awe-inspiring and oddly comforting. "Now then! Back to the magic container!"
Krampus's tone softened as he lifted one clawed hand. A glowing illusion appeared in the air—an ethereal human silhouette filled with swirling golden currents of energy. The boys leaned forward instinctively as Krampus explained, his voice carrying both teacherly patience and quiet reverence.
"The size of one's container varies," he said. "It naturally grows as long as you live, eat, and breathe. Every breath, every heartbeat feeds your container, and it, in turn, feeds you. It releases small amounts of magic into your body to strengthen it—and a fraction of that power back into the world itself, maintaining the balance of life."
A chibi clone floated up beside the projection and tapped at the glowing heart. "Think of it like a magical muscle!" it squeaked, puffing out its tiny chest. "The more you live, the more it grows!"
Sho tilted his head, frowning in concentration. "So muscles help magic?"
Krampus laughed warmly, his tail flicking with amusement. "Exactly. The container fuels the body, and the body supports the container. A healthy body houses stronger magic. The two are one." He folded his arms, his grin widening. "But to become a real wizard, you must learn to activate that connection. Without it, your magic sleeps like a lazy dragon, powerful but unawakened."
He snapped his fingers, and the illusions shifted—etherano swirling from the air into a luminous figure, merging with a glowing heart and spreading through its limbs. The boys' eyes shone as the room filled with golden light.
"The moment that connection awakens," Krampus continued, "your soul breathes with the world itself. You draw in etherano—the planet's natural energy—and shape it into your own magic. It's creation through will, discipline, and spirit."
The clones clapped tiny hands and projected sparks like fireworks. One proudly raised a sign that read, This is called becoming awesome!
The entire hall erupted in laughter and applause, the tension from before melting into pure excitement and wonder.
"For those who haven't awakened your magic," Krampus continued, amused, his tail swaying lazily behind him, "you can do so through meditation. Close your eyes, breathe slowly, and feel the etherano in the air. It's in every breath, every flicker of light, every heartbeat around you. Draw that energy inward, let it flow into your chest, into the depths of your soul. Picture your magic container as a vessel waiting to be filled, and pull the etherano toward it with your will alone. Once that connection is made, it will never fade—your container will absorb magic naturally for the rest of your life."
As he spoke, the clones projected a serene illusion: a figure seated in meditation as glowing motes of light streamed into its body like stars drawn to a gravity well. The sight mesmerized everyone. The hall grew still save for Krampus's calm, commanding tone.
"Do not rush this process," he added gently. "Magic listens to patience, not panic. The moment you feel warmth spreading from your chest or a pulse in your core—that is the moment your container awakens."
Sho whispered, "It sounds... peaceful."
Krampus smiled. "It is. Awakening magic is like hearing your own soul sing for the first time."
The boys nodded eagerly. Even Erik, usually aloof, looked intrigued, his sharp eyes glinting with curiosity as he muttered, "Guess I'll have to give that a try."
"Now then," Krampus said, his grin widening. "Let's begin with something practical—my Bodybuilding Magic. It's a cultivation art combining body, mind, and magic into one seamless flow. The foundation of my training, and the reason why I can outlift a mountain troll before breakfast."
Gray smirked. "And you never let us forget that."
Krampus ignored him and raised his hands. "Bodybuilding Magic can also help awaken dormant magic. It draws etherano into your body through synchronized breathing, movement, and incantation. It's been revised several times since I came to Earthland—it's my masterpiece."
The clones began projecting illusions of muscular silhouettes performing synchronized exercises while chanting glowing runes. The boys watched, mouths agape.
"Listen well," Krampus said. "Your breathing rhythm and mental chant will attract etherano from the air. Your movements draw magic from your container, while your willpower calls upon your spiritual strength. The three fuse within your blood—circulating as it nourishes your body. The result? Your flesh strengthens, your spirit sharpens, and your control over yourself reaches perfection."
Jellal's eyes widened with comprehension. "So the magic merges with our blood? That's incredible!"
Krampus grinned proudly. "Exactly. When your blood completes a full cycle, the excess magic returns to your container, expanding its capacity and refining your control. Think of it as the ultimate self-upgrade."
The boys looked awestruck. "That's so cool!" Sho shouted, punching the air.
Laxus stood and stretched his shoulders. "Alright, kids. Let's help you get the hang of it."
Gray and Lyon joined him, demonstrating the stance and rhythm while Krampus observed with approving eyes.
"Remember," Krampus said, his tone taking on that weighty authority that silenced even the chibi clones. "Balance is key. The body, spirit, and magic must grow together. Favor the body, and you'll always have a strong foundation. But let magic outpace the body or spirit, and sickness follows. When the three fall out of harmony, even the strongest mage can crumble from within."
He paced slowly, the golden light from the illusions reflecting off his fur. "Magic is power—but also pressure. Too much, and it burns from the inside out. Too little, and the flame goes out entirely. The secret of a true wizard lies in moderation and awareness of oneself."
Laxus rubbed the back of his neck, chuckling, a faint smirk tugging his lips. "Yeah… I know that one firsthand. My body couldn't handle my own lightning at first. Every surge felt like my veins were on fire."
Krampus nodded knowingly. "You and Ultear both were born with too much magic for your bodies to contain. You had to wrestle it under control through relentless training—and the scars it left became your strength."
Gray blinked, his jaw dropping slightly. "Wait—you were sickly, Laxus?" His eyes darted over the young man's broad chest and towering frame in disbelief.
Laxus grinned proudly, flexing an arm for good measure. "Used to be. Now look at me—living proof that discipline beats weakness."
Sho whistled, eyes wide. "No way… you really used to be frail?"
Laxus ruffled his blond hair and laughed. "Yeah, kid. Hard to believe, huh? But that's what training—and the Boss's methods—can do."
Krampus's smile softened. "Exactly. Never think of your weaknesses as curses. They're simply challenges meant to shape you. Strength isn't just muscle or magic—it's the harmony of both, forged by your will."
The boys laughed and nodded eagerly, their energy renewed, admiration shining in their eyes as the lesson sank in deeper than before.
Krampus continued, "Among our members, there are two factions of Bodybuilding Magic users—the casuals, who train fifteen minutes a day for a heroic physique… and the hardcore, who push themselves for an hour or more to become muscular war gods."
He smirked knowingly, crossing his massive arms. "Both paths are valid. It's not about how long you train—it's about why you train. One builds for beauty, the other for glory. Either way, every drop of sweat feeds your container and strengthens your soul."
Sho raised a hand, grinning. "Which one are you, Boss?"
Krampus laughed heartily, the sound booming across the hall like rolling thunder. "What do you think, kid? Do I look like a fifteen‑minute man to you?"
The entire hall erupted with laughter. Even the chibi clones joined in, flexing their stubby arms and pretending to pose. One clone even fainted dramatically after trying to lift a dumbbell twice its size.
Krampus chuckled and wiped a tear from his eye. "Alright, enough clowning. Time to put theory into practice. Remember—magic is born through repetition and focus. Feel the rhythm, feel the energy, and let your body sing with your soul."
Soon, the hall filled with rhythmic breathing and a shimmering glow of etherano as the boys began their first practice. The air vibrated faintly with energy, like a gentle storm building beneath their skin. Krampus's clones hovered around them, correcting postures, adjusting breathing, and whispering encouragements like tiny personal trainers.
"Straighten that back, Erik! Good, Simon—keep your breathing steady! Sho, stop trying to race the others, this isn't a contest!" one clone barked playfully, earning laughs from the group.
Fifteen minutes later, they all collapsed onto the mats, sweating, panting, and utterly spent—but visibly stronger. Even the air around them felt heavier, pulsing with residual energy. Simon, in particular, looked stunned at his reflection in a nearby mirror—his arms and shoulders already more defined.
Krampus's grin widened with deep pride. "As expected of the potential stock I picked," he said with a teasing growl. "No wonder you'd grow into a tower of muscle in another timeline."
The boys exchanged amazed looks, each feeling warmth and power pulsing through their veins. The sensation was addicting—like life itself had become brighter, sharper. Jellal placed a hand on his chest, whispering, "It's like… I can feel my heartbeat in every inch of me."
"That," Krampus said, smiling, "is the feeling of awakening. Treasure it—it's the first proof that your body and magic are beginning to move as one."
Then, as if on cue, a collective gurgle echoed through the room, breaking the moment of reverence and drawing a round of laughter from everyone.
Krampus blinked, then laughed, his deep voice echoing warmly. "Perfect timing. Let's feed those growing bodies before one of you faints from hunger."
He led them to the dorm cafeteria, where a flurry of chibi clones were already busy preparing a veritable feast. Massive platters of roast meats, glazed pies, thick soups, and golden sweet rolls covered every table. The air was heavy with the rich scent of spices, honeyed gravy, and freshly baked bread. Steam curled upward, painting the room in a cozy haze of warmth and satisfaction.
One chibi clone in a chef's hat rang a tiny bell. "Dinner's served! First course—enough food to feed a dragon!"
The boys burst into laughter and scrambled toward the tables. Plates clattered, chairs screeched, and laughter filled the air as they devoured their meal like wolves.
"Eat your fill," Krampus said, clapping his massive hands once, the sound booming like a drum. "A strong body needs a strong meal. And remember—every bite you take today is fuel for tomorrow's training!"
Simon bit into a roast drumstick twice the size of his hand. "This is amazing!" he mumbled with his mouth full.
Sho nodded enthusiastically. "I swear, even the food tastes stronger here!"
Krampus chuckled as he sat down beside Laxus, the table creaking under their combined weight. The two exchanged amused glances while the boys continued eating like there was no tomorrow.
Gray and Lyon joined a nearby table, teasing the recruits between bites. "Careful, or you'll explode before your next session," Gray said with a grin.
"Let them eat," Lyon replied with a faint smile. "They've earned it."
Laxus leaned back, smirking as he bit into a steak. "You sure spoil them, old man."
Krampus grinned around a mouthful of food. "Of course I do. They're my little warriors-in-the-making."
As the meal went on, laughter grew louder, stories were traded, and the clones danced between tables carrying refills of ale and hot chocolate. For a moment, the room felt less like a dormitory and more like a family dining together after a great victory.
By the end, Krampus leaned back with a satisfied sigh, his cloak slightly undone and his plate completely clean. "Now that your bodies are awakened," he said with a contented grin, "we just need to test your magical affinities." His golden eyes gleamed with pride and mischief. "Then, boys… your true journey begins."