One idea could be focusing on a new member of Fairy Tail who has a unique magic ability and their training to control it. For example, a character with the power to manipulate time in small increments but struggles to not accidentally freeze or speed up everything around them during training. Another idea is a group training session where the more experienced members like Natsu and Erza design a tough regime for the newer members to improve their combat skills and teamwork.
One common theme is Natsu's growth in power. In these fanfictions, he often overcomes challenges during training that make him stronger for future battles. Another theme could be his relationships. Training might strengthen his bonds with his guildmates as they support or train with him. For example, his friendship with Gray could develop as they spar during training sessions.
Add some high - stakes challenges. For example, if the characters are training for a big upcoming battle, make the training so difficult that failure seems imminent. This will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Also, include some friendly rivalries among the characters during training. Like Natsu and Gray constantly trying to outdo each other in a new training exercise.
Well, he could meet some old friends or foes. Maybe he runs into an old enemy who has also been training and they have a rematch which pushes Natsu to new limits. Or he meets an old friend who gives him some valuable advice on how to control his magic better during this trip.
Happy is almost always there. He's Natsu's loyal sidekick and provides comic relief as well as support during training. Lucy also frequently appears. She might offer some strategic advice or just be there to cheer Natsu on. Erza is another common character. Given her strong and strict nature, she could be the one pushing Natsu to his limits during training.
It adds more content. The official Fairy Tail series has a limited number of episodes and chapters. Fanfiction fills in the gaps. For example, it can create stories about what the characters were doing during the time - jumps in the original story.
If Lucy never joined Fairy Tail, the friendships and relationships among the characters would form in a very different way. Also, many of the story arcs might not unfold as they do in the original plot.
One popular theme is alternate universes (AUs). Writers like to explore what would happen if the Fairy Tail characters were in different settings, like a modern - day high school or a steampunk world. Another common theme is romance. Fans often pair up their favorite characters in different relationships, such as Natsu and Lucy or Gray and Juvia.
Erza and Jellal are also a favored couple in Fairy Tail fanfiction. Their complex past, with Jellal's redemption arc, adds a layer of depth to their potential relationship. It allows for stories that deal with forgiveness, love that overcomes past wrongs, and the growth of their connection over time. There's also Gajeel and Levy, as their interactions in the series suggest a budding relationship that can be elaborated on in fanfics.