A Sword Saint Christmas Special!

I woke up with an audible groan and sat up, rubbing my forehead and sitting up in my bed. As the blankets fell off my body, I shivered at the cold in my room. My entire body felt like lead. I was super groggy and didn't feel like getting up or even moving. But something compelled me to. Something felt off...

I blinked, my eyes snapping open in surprise. I looked around to see myself in my room, in Magnolia. I peered out the window and looked into the streets below. It was early in the morning and it was... snowing? Since when was it snowing? I'm pretty sure it was the Fall, right?

On that note, I feel like I shouldn't be here for some reason. Like I need to be elsewhere. It's nagging at the back of my head, but I can't seem to even remember what it is that's bugging me.

'... oh, well. I'll give myself a headache if I keep worrying about it.' I shrugged my shoulders and swung my legs off the edge of my bed, hopping to my feet. I glanced over my shoulder and smiled at Pip, snoring quietly against her pillow.

I quietly walked out my room, resisting the urge to shudder at the cold temperature. I called upon the ether in my body and let it circulate, allowing the familiar feeling of magical energy coursing through me to warm up my body.

I should really invest in getting a heater. Think I saw one for sale at one of the market shops...

Sluggishly, I stepped into the kitchen and went to make myself a cup of hot chocolate. I poured water into the teapot and set it on the stove to boil, then I opened my cabinet and pulled out a box of coco powder, pulling out a few packets. While the water continued to boil, I pulled out a bag of marshmallows, a bottle of chocolate syrup, and some milk.

When the kettle hissed, I went ahead poured it into a mug, tore open the packets, and put it in. I stirred the contents and added a splash of milk, then doused the steaming drink with some of the chocolate syrup and stirred again to enhance the flavor and make the chocolate taste just a tad bit sweeter. Once it was a perfect dark brown, I pulled two marshmallows out of the bag and gently placed them into the mug.

Blowing on the steaming hot drink, I took a small sip and let out a satisfied sigh. That helped warm me up even better. So cozy~

"It's times like these where I wish I had a TV..." I muttered, looking around my apartment.

It was rather sparse. Over the past year or so since I've arrived on Earthland, I've managed to save up cash and fill it up. But I only got what was necessary and functional for living here. I got a bookshelf with several pieces of literature to pass the time, but none of the books really interested me. Levy loaned me some fiction novels she really seemed to enjoy...

Fun fact; Levy is a fan of Twilight. Or at least, the Earthland version, Eclipse.

Considering she hooked up with Gajeel in the future, I'm not really surprised. Guess she's got a thing for bad boys...

But, if there was one thing I'd add to this place, it would be a television. Sadly, Earthland isn't so advanced as to develop those yet. Still, maybe I can speed that up? I'm not engineer or technician, but I'm confident I can spruce up some blueprints with some good 'ol trial and error. Hell, I think Warren made a phone in the far future with telepathy magic, right?

They called it communication lacrima though. Dumb. It's literally a phone.

Food for thought...

"Morniiiing..."

I perked up to see Pip's small frame waddle into the room. Setting my mug on the counter, I walked up to her and gently scooped her up into my arms, allowing her to snuggle up against my shoulder. "Good morning, Pip. You sleep good?"

"Mmhm..." she nodded, letting out a cute little yawn. "Tired..."

"Yeah, that's to be expected." I snorted, placing her atop the counter and sliding my mug over to her. "Here, have I sip. And be careful, it's hot."

"Mm..." Pip let out a series of incoherent mumbles as she grasped the mug and tilted it downwards a bit towards her lips so she could drink it. The moment she took a sip, her eyes snapped open and she let out a pained yelp, jumping at least ten feet into the air. "AGH!!! HOT HOT HOT!"

I sighed, grabbing my mug before it could tip over and spill the contents. "Yeah, I told you that would happen if you weren't careful."

Knock.*Knock.*Knock.*

I perked up and glanced at my front door. While Pip nursed her scorched tongue with pained wheezes and whimpers, I walked over and opened the door to see... "Gramps?"

"Good morning, my boy!" Makarov grinned, raising a hand in greeting.

"Good morning, please, come in." I stepped to the side to allow him entry. He nodded graciously and walked inside as I closed the door.

"Thank you, my boy."

"Hi, Master Makarov," Pop waved while fanning her tongue.

He chuckled. "Hello to you too, Pip. Burned your tongue I see?"

"Mhm..."

"Do you want some hot cocoa? I still have some hot water left over." I walked into the kitchen.

"That sounds splendid, thank you."

I nodded and silently prepared a cup for him. Once it was finished, I placed it in front of Makarov and sat across from him as Pip hopped into my lap. I watched as he sipped his drink quietly in silence for a moment before speaking up.

"Was there a reason for you to stop by, Gramps?"

"Ah!" Makarov blinked and nodded, setting the mug down gently and folded his hands over his lap, giving me a serious look. "There is something very important that I must discuss with you."

I sat up straight, exchanging a concerned look with Pip before frowning softly. "What is it?"

Is this some secret mission I'm about to get sent on? What could it possibly be? Stopping a dangerous criminal? Fighting a dark guild? Delivering an important message to an old associate that Master Makarov hasn't met in years, leading to a giant conspiracy involving a tyrannical king and super ultra powerful magic mcguffin?!

"Christmas will happen in a few days time!"

. . .

"Eh?"

"Yes, yes. Seeing as how you've been so caught up in your training as of late, I had a feeling you would have forgotten." Makarov chuckled. "I merely stopped by to remind you. This will be the first Christmas for many of the newer members, and, as one of the older kids, it'd be good to make a good first impression!"

Oh, yeah, huh... Natsu probably never experienced a proper Christmas before, huh? Pip, too...

"Got it." I nodded, rubbing my chin. "I'll come up with some gifts then, thanks, Gramps!"

"Of course, my boy." Makarov smiled and drank up the last of his tea, setting it on the saucer and hopping it off the couch. "Thank you for the tea, but I have to go ahead and prepare for the festivities."

As Makarov left my apartment, I could only think of one thing while sitting on my couch.

What the hell am I gonna get everyone?

X-X-X-X-X-X

"Taruko... what is Christmas?"

I spared Pip a glance, who was dutifully perched on my shoulder. Then I took a gander at Magnolia while adjusting my scarf over my mouth. I was dressed in a thick jacket with inner fur coating, baggy sweatpants, a leather boots to stave off the cold. The entire town was covered in snow, although Magnolia seemed to be as lively as ever, with shops and houses setting up decorations, children playing outside and having snowball fights, I saw a few men carrying a giant Christmas tree on their shoulders too. Likely to bring to their homes.

"Christmas is something that humans celebrate every December. It's a time of day where we come together with family to spend the holidays, giving gifts, partying, and having a good time all around." I smiled fondly, experiencing memories of Christmas from both my past life and current one.

Good times.

"Ooh," Pip hummed, clapping her paws. "Sounds fun!"

"It is. Trust me, you'll have an awesome time! Fairy Tail hosts the best Christmas parties." I grinned.

"HEADS UP!"

What?

THWACK!*

I grunted as my face was pelted by snow and my vision was obscured. Grimacing, I flicked the snow away to see Cana grinning impishly at me, wearing similar heavy clothes to myself.

"Cana," I huffed, "Nice to see you too."

"CANAAAAA!" Pip cheered, leaping into her arms.

"Hi Pip, hi Taruko~!" Cana giggled, hugging the bunny tightly. She shot me a smirk. "I'm surprised you aren't holed up in the woods training or something."

Oh, God damn it.

"Ha ha, very funny. I don't just train, you know." I grumbled.

"Oh yeah? What do you do, then?" Cana asked challengingly as she fell into step beside me.

"... well, I read," I said, hesitating for a moment. "...and I dabble in writing..."

"Ooh, really? What do you write? Can I see?" Cana's eyes lit up like Christmas lights.

"Nothing special. Maybe if I have something I'm confident in, I'll let you have a look." I shrugged my shoulders, looking around.

"Mm, okay! I'll hold you to it, then." Cana hummed. "So what's the plan for today?"

"Well, the party is in a few days, right? I'm looking to get gifts for everyone." I rubbed my chin with an inquisitive frown. "Have you gotten your gifts yet?"

"Yep!" Cana said with a chirp, before jabbing a finger in my face. "But you don't get to know until the day of the party! It's a surprise!"

I raised my hands in defense. "Aiye aiye, Cap'n."

"Am I getting a gift?" Pip asked innocently.

"Of course you are~!" Cana cooed, gently pinching Pip's cheeks.

I smiled at the two and stuffed my hands into the pockets of my jacket. Thinking up some gifts for the others shouldn't be too hard. They're my best friends, so it should be easy for me to figure something out! First, let's start with Erza...

She isn't one for super extravagant gifts; last year I gave her a sword maintenance kit... so to differentiate from that...

!

"I've got it!" I blurted out with an excited grin, startling Cana and Pip.

"What? Did you figure out what you were going to get?" Cana asked with furrowed brows.

"Yep. Need to pay Gramps a visit."

X-X-X-X-X-X

Stepping into the guild, I immediately spotted Makarov at the bar drinking a mug of ale. I b-lined towards him... until a pink ball of flaming fury flew towards me.

"HEY, TARUKO! FIGHT ME!"

I clocked him in the jaw and sent him flying.

"Not now, fist of fury. Busy."

In the background, Gray snorted. "Laid the fuck out."

"Hey, Gramps!" I called out to the guild master, causing him to turn to me.

"Taruko? What do you need?"

"Got any pictures of Rob I can borrow?"

He blinked.

"... What do you need it for?"

I grinned.

"Reference."

X-X-X-X-X-X

Tucking a photo of Makarov and Rob into my pocket, I trudged through Magnolia with purpose. Pip was on my shoulder once again, giving me a curious look.

"What did you need that picture for?"

"It involves Erza's gift. That's for later, though. Right now, I've gotta get some other stuff."

"Okay," Pip accepted the answer easily but paused, her nose twitched harshly. "Mm?"

I slowed to a stop. "What's up, Pip?"

"I smell a really strong magic..." Pip murmured before pointing a paw off into the distance. "There."

I frowned and followed her paw. As we walked, we reached the edge of Magnolia, where the strong scent of magic originated from.

The building looked deceptively small, nestled between two ordinary buildings that don't seem large enough to fit it. Its exterior is a bizarre mix of architectural styles—half Tudor cottage, half gothic cathedral, with hints of Eastern pagoda detailing along its roof. The shop's sign swings gently despite there being no wind, its letters written in glowing golden script that shifts languages every few seconds.

The windows of the shop are foggy and glow faintly with hues that shift unpredictably, as if there's a kaleidoscope of magic at work inside. Occasionally, shoppers might glimpse floating trinkets or hear faint chimes from behind the frosted glass, as if enticing someone to enter.

I glanced up at the sign and squinted at the name of the shop.

'The Wyrd Bazaar.'

Cute.

"... now that I'm looking at it. I've never seen this place before." I frowned, scratching at my chin. "... and I've pretty much been all around Magnolia."

"Something is really off about this place..." Pip muttered nervously.

"Don't worry, Pip. It'll be fine." I pat her on the head reassuringly and stepped inside the shop. If anything were to happen, I'd protect her. And if anything went south, I'd make sure she'd get out first in order to contact the guild.

Upon stepping inside, the shop appears infinitely larger than it did outside. The air is warm, filled with the comforting scent of parchment, cedarwood, and a faint hum of magic. A subtle mist veils the edges of the room, which gave it an eerie feel, but it wasn't anything too unnerving. Tall, spiraling bookshelves line the walls, stocked with every imaginable type of gift: magical artifacts, strange relics, lacrima infused with untold power, enchanted clothing, and a bunch of other odd trinkets...

... was that a barbed spear?

At the heart of the shop is a glass display case on a rotating dais. Inside is a collection of the shop's most unique items, ranging from glowing shards of unknown materials to small creatures in stasis, strange crystals, and mysterious swords.

"Ah, I was wondering when you'd finally wander into my shop, little swordsman. Seems you brought your pet, too."

Danger.

Pip and I tensed, and I heard her subtly growl. Our sight-seeing came to an abrupt end when we turned around to come face to face with a tall elderly man. He has a messy mane of slicked back silver hair and striking crimson eyes with wrinkled pale skin. He wore a black suit with matching cape fastened over his shoulders, accented by gold; along with a pair of silk white gloves and brown dress shoes. He leaned against his cane casually, carrying an air of ambivalence and wearing a smirk that screamed "I know more than you".

Despite the casual air he presented himself with, I could sense the power radiating off of him; threatening to swallow me whole. A mix of different scents assaulted my magic senses, making it difficult to get a proper read on him. Every instinct in my body was telling me to get as far away from this man as possible, but I couldn't move. I couldn't bring myself to run away.

I closed my eyes briefly and took in a deep breath to calm my nerves, placing a hand on Pip's head to prevent her from lashing out. I opened my eyes again and eyed the man up and down. He didn't look like he was going to attack. But I knew better. He could easily take me out if he wanted to.

But... there was this air of familiarity. Like I saw him from somewhere.

"Pip's not a pet. She's my friend." I narrowed my eyes. "I don't think we've met before,"

"Not yet. But I know you." the man's smirked, flashing a pair of sharp fangs. "The weight of two souls... troublesome, isn't it?"

I stilled, my throat had gone dry and my hands clammy. I clenched my fists as Pip let out a noise of confusion.

"Huh?"

"... How-"

"Nevermind that. You came looking for gifts, correct?" he smiled casually, waving his hand walking deeper into the shop. "It is the holidays, after all."

I closed my eyes and let out a small breath, nodding. "Yeah. Just some gifts for my friends." I frowned. "Got any recommendations?"

The mysterious man smirked at me. "Follow me."

I sighed deeply and followed him, feeling Pip nudge my head.

"This guy is scary..." she whispered into my ear.

"I know." I grumbled.

"Now... what exactly is it you're looking for?"

"Gifts for my friends. From Fairy Tail."

"Fairy Tail, hmm?" the man stroked his beard and grinned, nodding. "I've got just the thing."

He walked up to one of the spiraling shelves and grabbed an assortment of different items, then walked back over to us and set them on the counter. I stepped forward and looked at them in confusion.

"What are these?"

"First, for the boy who molds ice. Something to spark that creativity of his," the man gestured to a small crystal ball that radiated a cold air... this was... "An enchanted mold lacrima. Harvested from the most rigid parts of Mt. Hokabe. Perfect for individuals who specialise in molding magic."

"... woah." I blinked in surprise, though I furrowed my brows. I was questioning how he knew about Gray, but, Fairy Tail was the number one guild in Fiore... me and the other kids have been building up a reputation. Probably from word of mouth. "And that?"

I pointed at a small knife resting within a deep maroon sheath.

"A ceremonial blade, the sheath is made from dragon scales." the man informed, smoothly pulling out the knife to reveal a deep red blade with engravings etched onto it's surface. "Read it,"

I gently took the knife and squinted at it.

'Set Your Heart Ablaze.'

"For the dragon boy."

I paused, frowning. Okay. Natsu was a pyromaniac, but not everyone in the world knew about Dragon Slayer Magic. At least, not at first glance...

"How do you know Natsu?" I questioned.

"You can say I've been... observing him. Quite the interesting fellow." he answered ominously, shooting me that punchable smirk of his.

I sheathed the knife and huffed, setting it down. My eyes trailed over to a music box. I pressed a button on the side to activate it, causing it to play an eerie yet soothing melody.

"Ooooh~" Pip cooed, relaxing at the sound.

"For the demon girl, to soothe her inner demons."

Mirajane, then.

I eyed the metallic armguard painted black and the small pendant laced with obsidian and ruby, twinkling like stars.

"For the gentleman striving to be the 'manliest man!'. Stronger grip, tougher punches. It's all in the wrist."

Elfman.

I frowned. "This doesn't scream 'I think you're weak', does it?"

He chuckled. "Oh, hardly. It screams, 'you're so strong, here's a gift to compliment your rugged greatness!'."

"... if you say so. And the pendant?"

"For the girl that gazes at the stars and has undying love in her heart. A reminder of hope and light, even in the darkest of moments."

Lisanna.

I blinked. "That's... actually really thoughtful."

The man smirked. "I have my moments."

Shaking my head, I directed my attention to the final item... a mug?

"A mug that refills itself with whatever drink the owner desires. For the card girl."

I blankly stared at the mug, then narrowed my eyes at the man.

"Cana doesn't drink."

He chuckled. "Yet."

"Never."

"Doesn't have to be alcohol, now does it?"

I contained my outburst and exhaled through my nose, glaring at him. "Who are you?"

He leaned back, smirking. "I think you know."

I stared at him, took in his appearance again. The presence he radiated, this chaotic magic, those eyes, those fangs...

My face fell.

"Fuck."

Zelretch laughed. "There it is!"

Pip blinked in confusion. "Huh? What's going on? Do you know him?"

"Unfortunately."

Zelretch waved coyly at Pip. "Don't mind me, little rabbit. Just a cosmic prankster with a soft spot for swordmen trying to do the right thing."

She blinked. "Wha?"

Greaaaaaat...

I fished out my wallet. "How and why are you here? Shouldn't the Wizard Marshall be doing more important things?"

"And what exactly do you think I should be doing?"

"Fucking with Emiya or something...?" I grumbled under my breath.

He must've heard me, because he snickered. "Good idea. I'll add it to the list."

Sorry not sorry, Shirou.

"As for why I'm here? Just filling out the cameo quota."

Cameo quota? What-

Oh.

"... fucking filler."

Zelretch laughed again.

Pip was confused. "I don't get it. What's going on?"

"What's all this gonna cost?" I mumbled tiredly. I felt bad for ignoring Pip, but there was no use in explaining any of this. She'd probably forget about it the day after.

"The grand total?" Zelretch hummed, scratching his chin. "Just a bit of curiosity and an open mind. A fair trade, don't you say?"

I gave him an incredulous look. "You're serious?"

The Wizard Marshall shrugged. "What use does this world's currency have to me?"

... fair point.

"Alright then. These things won't explode the moment I step out the shop, right?"

"They shouldn't."

...

"So there's the possibility they will?"

He grinned at me.

"Ugh..." I put the gifts in a plastic bag and turned around, walking out of the shop. "Thanks, I guess."

"Oh, don't mention it. This was all very entertaining for me~"

Fucking troll...

The moment I stelled outside and turned around, the shop was gone; along with the strong magic that it radiated. I blankly stared at the vacant spot as Pip shuffled on my shoulder.

"What just happened?"

"... Pip, I'm going to be honest with you... I have no damn clue."

X-X-X-X-X-X

Trudging through the snow covered woods of East Forest with Stormbreaker in hand, I whistled a jolly Christmas tune while searching for the perfect tree. This would tie in to the gift I had in mind for Erza. I just needed to find the right tree. Couldn't just grab ANY tree... it had to be just right.

"Pip! You find anything yet?"

"Got one!"

Perfect.

I followed her voice and came across her thumping her foot against the base of the tree. It sounded hollow enough, but sturdy enough to remain standing firm and tall. Should be easy to cut, considering my absurd strength.

"Alright, stand back." Pip hopped away from the tree as I gripped Stormbreaker with both hands, swinging it in an arc. "HRAH!"

Lightning danced through the air as the massive axe cut through the tree cleanly like a one thousand degree knife through butter. As the tree creaked and tipped forward, I lashed out with a series of precise slashes, cutting the wood up into smaller chunks. I dismissed my weapon back into my Requip space and caught the falling pieces of wood with a grin.

"Alright! This'll be perfect for Erza!"

Pip clapped her paws excitedly. "Yup yup!"

"What will be perfect for me?"

"GAGH!" Pip and I screamed in alarm, whirling around to see Erza standing there in winter gear.

She tilted her head and blinked in confusion. We stared at her in stunned silence.

"... hi." I squeaked.

"Hello," she replied back, placing her hands on her hips. "What were you saying about me?"

. . .

"DISTRACTION!"

I blew a strong gust of wind into the snow, kicking it up into Erza's face and causing her to sputter.

"BWUH--TARUKO!!"

"RUN, PIP! RUN LIKE THE WIND!"

"YUP YUP!"

"GET BACK HERE!!!"

X-X-X-X-X-X

Today was the day. Christmas! Time really flies by, but eh, who cares? I finally got the finishing touches on Erza's gift and wrapped the other gifts I got for some of the other people in the guild. With that in mind, I stacked the presents on top of each other and let out a small sigh of relief and satisfaction.

"Finally done." I dusted my hands off and turned around. "Pip! You ready?!"

"Yup yup!" she hopped around the corner, dressed in a Christmas themed sweater purposefully seen for her, along with a cute little Santa hat. "I'm ready!"

"Great, let's move. Don't wanna be late!"

Pip took her place on my shoulder and I picked up the stack of presents; rushing out the door and kicking it closed. Now it was a matter of getting to the guild. Normally I'd run there juiced up on Reinforcement, but I didn't want to run too fast and drop all the gifts. So I was forced to move at the pace of a leisurely jog.

Took about 10 minutes to reach the guild; so it wasn't that bad in retrospect. Inside, I could already hear the sounds of partying going down, the cheers and hollers of our guild mates rang loudly in my ears, making me smile.

I pushed the doors open with my back and waddled inside awkwardly.

"The life of the party is here!" I called out with a grin.

"Look who's finally arrived to the party!" I felt a strong hand clap me on the back, looking to see that it was Macao. "Good to see ya', kid. Lemme help you with those."

"Thanks, I was just doing some last minute preparations." I smiled and handed him some of the presents. We walked up to the Christmas tree and set them under it.

"Taruko! Pip!" Lisanna ran up to us with a beaming smile, her eyes sparkling. "OMIGOSH! Pip looks so adorable!"

"Hi-" Pip was cut off when she was scooped up off my shoulder by Lisanna and pulled into a tight hug.

I chuckled. "I know, right?"

"Sword-for-Brains!" I grunted as Mirajane wrapped an arm around my shoulder and pulled me into a sharp hug. "Sho glad yew could make it...~!"

Is that the smell of alcohol?

"M-Mira-nee, c'mon, let's sit you down..." Elfman slowly stepped towards his sister cautiously with a nervous smile.

"Is Mirajane drunk?" I frowned as the demoness let out a slurred giggled.

Lisanna and Elfman sighed. "Yes."

"How the hell did that happen?! She's underage!"

"I found a flask dumped in the punch bowl," Cana leaned against one of the tables nearby, drinking a cup of eggnog. "Guess the contents got mixed in."

"I'm fwine~! Just a bi - ergh, bit wobbly..." Mirajane waved her hand dismissively, slumping against my shoulder. "S' not a big deaaaal~"

"... I blame Macao for this."

"THE FUCK I DO?!"

"Please get your hands off of Taruko, Mira, it's very unbecoming of you." Erza walked over with a frown.

"Huuuuuuh? Wazzat s'pposed ta' mean -hic-, ya' dumb tin can..." Mirajane shoved herself off of me and stumbled over herself, glowering at Erza. "You wanna go?!"

Erza scoffed. "You'd hardly be a challenge in your drunken state."

"Say that to mah FACE!"

"Girls, let's calm down." I clapped my hands on their shoulders while slowly guiding Mirajane into a nearby seat. "Mira, sit down before you hurt yourself."

"I ain't some... fragile lil' princess..."

"I know. I still wouldn't want you getting hurt regardless."

Her face turned a shade redder and she grumbled. Probably because she was drunk or something.

"Yo, Elfman, get your sister a cup of water, would you?"

"You got it!"

"Where are Natsu and Gray?" I turned to Erza.

Just as she was about to reply, an explosion of ice and fire erupted on the balcony leading up to the second floor. Gray and Natsu came tumbling out the smoke, punching and kicking at each other as other guild mates got sent flying amidst the chaos spurred on by their conflict.

"... there." Erza sighed harshly and closed her eyes.

"DUMB PYRO!"

"STUPID POPSICLE!"

It's always something with these two.

I stepped forward to stop their brawl.

"Alright, you two. Let's calm down, we're supposed to be having-"

THWACK!*

My vision was obscured with something. Silence reigned over the guildhall and I slowly reached up and peeled whatever collided with my face. I stared at it blankly and held it up in my hand.

Gray's underwear.

I slowly lowered the article of clothing and stared at a paling Natsu and Gray.

Gray was naked.

His underwear hit me in the face.

. . .

I took in a deep, calming breath and tossed his boxers back towards him, shooting Gray a tired look. "Keep your pants on during the party, Gray."

He caught them with a sheepish expression. "Y-Yeah..."

"Natsu, stop fighting with Gray. You'll trash the guildhall. If you wanna brawl, take it outside."

"R-Right."

"Great." I clapped my hands and smiled. "Now c'mon, everyone! What's with all the silence! Keep the party going!"

There was a beat, and everyone cheered in agreement. In an instant, the festivities resumed. I let out a huff and shook my head in amusement, taking a heavy seat on a chair at a table close to me. I blinked when a mug of eggnog and a plate of peppermint chocolate cookies were slid in front of me.

I looked up to see that it was Eliana that gave me the offered drink and snacks. She shot me a small smirk. "Excellent display of self-control."

"I'm used to their behavior by now, so I can't get too angry at them." I said, taking a sip of my eggnog while I watched Erza scolded Natsu and Gray. I paused when I inspected her hands. Her fingers were covered in bandages... "What happened to Erza's hands?"

"Oh, that?" Eliana hummed, giving me a wink and walking off. "Eh, don't worry about it too much."

I frowned and shook my head. Why shouldn't I worry? She's my friend. Bah, whatever. Erza doesn't seem to bothered by it. She probably hurt herself training or something.

"Taruko! Taruko, look what Cana got me!"

I perked up to see Pip hopped onto the table, holding up a massive carrot that was twice her size with a neat little bow tied around it. She squealed and dropped it on the table with a thud, bouncing on her hindlegs.

"Isn't it amazing!?"

I sweat-dropped and chuckled. "Yeah, Pip. It sure is."

'A bit predictable, don't you think?'

"I'm going to savor every bite~! Christmas is the best!" Pip cheered and began feasting upon the vegetable with vigor.

"Knew she'd like it," Cana smirked, sitting down next to me.

"Well, Pip has a one tracked mind, so I'm not surprised." I dryly muttered, earning a snort from Cana as she smacked my arm.

"Jerk."

"The truth hurts. Oh - yeah. I should give you guys your presents." I stood up and ran over to the Christmas tree to grab them before rushing over to Cana and handing it to her. "Here's yours."

"Huh, thanks. Wonder what you got me..." Cana hummed, peeling off the wrapping and opening the box. She blinked, pulling the mug out with the quizzical look. "... a mug?"

"It's a mug that replenishes itself. Infinite drinks!" I smirked.

"You're lying."

"Why don't you try it?"

"Fine," Cana huffed and called out to the bar. "Eliana! Can I have some apple juice please?!"

"Give me a sec!"

"Hey guys, what's going on?" Levy walked over with a curious expression.

"Taruko apparently got me a magic mug that refills itself."

"What? No way!"

I'm going to enjoy the looks on their faces... unless this is a dud. Considering who exactly gave these things to me, I wouldn't be surprised. Zelretch was infamously known for being a troll. Or was that just fanon? I had no idea. My grasp on Nasuverse lore was both foggy and very loose. I was a casual fan.

Of course it had to be real. And of course the Wizard Marshall would appear with his access to the Kaleidoscope... still dunno why he was so interested in this world to show up and make his presence known to me. Then again, this was apparently a filler episode, so who cares?

"Hey, Levy. Got you a gift too, Merry Christmas." I handed her packet wrapped in a bow, smiling. "It's the first draft to a story I'm working on. Thought you'd wanna be the first to read it."

"You're writing a book?!" Levy gasped with sparkling eyes, hugging the packet against her chest. "Thanks! I can't wait to read it!"

"Heeeey, you said when you had something I'd get to read it." Cana pouted as Eliana walked over.

I shrugged. "You can read it after Levy is done. It's just a draft, anyway. It's subject to change."

"What's this I hear about Taruko writing a story?" Eliana inquired as she poured apple juice into Cana's mug.

"It's a story about some kid looking for a dragon's balls!" Pip chirped up in-between chewing.

"WHAT?!" Natsu shrieked in the background.

Eliana, Cana, and Levy shot me unreadable looks.

I palmed my face and groaned. "Not an actual dragon's balls. They're a magic artifact called 'dragon balls'. Wish granting orbs."

"Ohhhhhhhhhhh." they mumbled.

Cana gulped down her apple juice in one sitting and smacked her lips, setting the mug down. "That was good! Doesn't to - whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat..."

Just like Zelretch told me, the mug would gradually refill itself. We all watched as apple juice rose up to the edge of the rim.

"Holy shit, it worked..." I mumbled.

"Language." Levy whispered.

"English."

"Huh." Eliana blinked. "... where'd you say you got that mug again?"

"I didn't." Eliana shot me the look, and I raised my hands in surrender. "Okay, okay. I got it from some mysterious old coot at the edge of town. He's gone though, along with his shop, so you're not gonna be able to get another mug like it,"

Eliana clicked her tongue and crossed her arms. "Damn... could have saved us a ton of money if we got an entire stock of those things..."

Cana was still staring at the mug. I think she went catatonic.

"What's this I hear about a dragon's balls?!" Natsu crashed into the table, looking between us.

"Not an actual dragon's... erm... privates, Natsu." Levy muttered bashfully.

"Merry Christmas, knucklehead." I tossed Natsu's gift towards him.

"Huh? What's this?" he tore it open and blinked in surprise, grinning brightly. "Woah, cool! A knife!"

"Read the engravings,"

Natsu squinted, mumbling. "Uhm, uh... set... youuuur... h-heart... ablaze? Set Your Heart Ablaze!" he blinked again, smiling. "I like it! Has a nice ring to it!"

"Whenever you're in a pinch in a fight, remember those words and shatter past your limits, alright." I smiled.

His grin turned fierce. "HELL YEAH!"

"Are we sure giving the resident pyromaniac a knife was a good idea?" Gray mumbled as he walked over, finally wearing some damn pants.

I shrugged. "It's a ceremonial knife, not meant for fighting."

"If you say so." Gray looked down at the present with his name marked on it, picking it up. "This one mine?"

"It's got your name on it, don't it?"

"Fair point." he opened it and pulled out the lacrima. "... a lacrima?"

"Yeah. It's a molding lacrima apparently, helps spark that creativity in your noggin."

"Huh." Gray blinked, holding the lacrima in his hands and focusing his magic. The ice shifted itself into the shape of a lion standing upon a mountain peak, letting out a fierce roar that captivated the eyes and awe of several guild members. Gray grinned. "Heh, alright, this is pretty cool."

I smiled, pushing there presents towards the Strauss siblings. "Here are your presents."

Lisanna opened her's first, pulling out the pendant with sparkling eyes. "It's so pretty... I love it!" she tackled me, giving me a warm hug. "Thank you, Taruko!"

"Merry Christmas, Lisanna." I smiled, resting a hand against her head.

"An... armguard?" Elfman murmured, pulling out the accessory.

"I thought it'd compliment your Beast Arm." I shrugged my shoulders. Then I smirked."Pretty manly, right?"

Elfman grinned. "... Yeah. Manly."

"Whuz this...?" Mirajane mumbled, pulling out the music box. She blinked languidly. "Huuuh...?"

"A music box. I thought it'd help you relax. Since you always seem to be carrying a lot on your shoulders, y'know? You shouldn't be so tense and wound up all the time."

Mirajane blearily looked up at me, then pressed the button the music box. As the soothing melody played, her expression softened considerably, and for a moment, her drunken stupor was forgotten. "... thanks, Taruko."

She smiled. "I love it."

For a moment, I was reminded of the more docile woman she'd become in the future.

I smiled back. "No problem, Mira."

And finally...

I pushed Erza's present in front of her. "You're last, Erza."

As I watched Erza unwrap her gift, I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. Would she like it? Would she hate it? Would I make her angry or would I just be opening up old wounds? I didn't know. So I looked on with bated breath as she pulled out her gift.

A wooden statue of Rob rested in her hands, personally carved by yours truly. Admittedly I pulled two all nighters trying to get every detail just right, which was why I asked for a photo of him in the first place. I needed reference to remember what he looked like... I screwed up. A lot. Several times. I'd never done something like this before, and it wasn't like I could look up a YouTube tutorial on how to do these things, so I had to learn through trial and error.

But I think I got it right. Just in time.

"... from what I garnered, Rob meant a lot to you. So... I thought, 'why not', y'know? So you could have something to remember him back." I mumbled awkwardly, rubbing the back of my neck. "Sooooo... do you like it?"

Her bangs shadowed her eyes, making it hard to get a read on what she felt, or her expression. She didn't say anything, which was starting to worry me.

"... Erza?"

She set the statue down, got up and started walking towards me, which caused the others to stir.

"Woah, now, Erza, let's not do anything crazy..."

"H-Hey, now..."

"Erza-"

She hugged me.

We all fell silent as she dug her fingers into the fabric of my shirt and buried her face into my shoulder. Muffled sniffles escaped her and my expression softened. With her so close to me, I could catch the slightest tremors running through her body.

"...thank you..." she whispered.

I smiled and rested a hand on her shoulder. "Of course."

I heard Cana start snickering and shot her a confused look as Erza took in a deep breath to regain her composure before pulling away and smiling. She reached out and pulled out her own present, handing it to me.

"I think it's about time you're given your parents, don't you think?"

I blinked in surprise, taking the present gingerly. "I-"

"Why do yew look sho surprised?" Mirajane mumbled, resting her cheek against her palm. Poor girl looked like she was on the verge of passing out. "Think we wouldn't get ya' nothin'...?"

I chuckled, slowly opening up Erza's gift. "I guess you have a point. You didn't have to..."

"Of course we had to," Erza huffed, glancing over at the statue of Rob and picking it gently. "You're our friend. Why wouldn't we get you something? Especially after you went out of your way to get all of us a present."

I didn't have a response to that, and instead pulled the box open, taking out a dark blue scarf with small sword symbols sewn into it. I blinked in surprise and ran my thumbs across the fabric. "A scarf..."

I glanced up at Erza and then at her bandaged fingers. "Did you...?"

Erza coughed into her fist, her cheeks turning pink out of embarrassment. "I-I had some trouble at first, but I managed to get Eliana to help me properly sew it. I think it came out decently."

"Decent! Erza, this is amazing...! Thank you," I grinned, eyeing the scarf closely and folding it carefully. "I'll take good care of it."

She let out another huff. "You better..."

Erza yelped as she was shoved out the way by the others as they shoved their presents in my face.

"Now open my present!"

"No, open my first!"

"Open mine, trust me, it'll be way better than Gray's!"

"THE HELL DID YOU JUST SAY! YOU WANNA GO YOU DUMB PYRO?!"

"BRING IT! MY GIFT IS THE BEST OUT OF EVERYONE HERE!"

"OH YEAH?!"

"NOW YOU'VE DONE IT!"

Chaos erupted across the guild in a matter of seconds. I felt my brow twitch as I stepped away from the brawl. Of course. Of course everyone would end up fighting. It wouldn't be Fairy Tail if they didn't... and over who had the better present, no less. I didn't even open any of them, yet!

Glancing down at the scarf in my hands, I smiled and held it close. 'Still... I wouldn't have it any other way.'

Who cares if we end up fighting at every turn? That's what made us special. What set us apart. At the end of the day, we're family.

And I couldn't think of anybody else I'd rather spend Christmas with.

A/N.

Heeeeeeyo~! It's ya' boy!

Sword Saint is officially a year old! The first chapter was posted on the 26th of December last year. I wanted to get this specia out by then, but life got in the way. As of writing this, it's currently the 27th.

Chapter 19 is taking a bit longer to write than I expected but I'm making good progress. Just thought I'd end 2024 off with something nice and wholesome. I have a bunch of stuff planned for 2025, both for this story and the others I eventually write! Be ready for it!

Hope you guys had a great December, and here's to another year of living!