Natsu Dragneel and Lisanna Strauss, despite their close relationship and history, do not get married in any episode of the Fairy Tail anime or manga. Their deep bond is undeniable, leading many fans to speculate and hope for a romantic development, but their relationship remains within the realm of close friendship and camaraderie.
The Persistent Rumor: Understanding the Misconception
The idea that Natsu and Lisanna marry stems from a confluence of factors. Firstly, their shared childhood connection is undeniably powerful. They spent considerable time together, raising and caring for Happy’s egg, creating a familial-like bond that resonated deeply with viewers. Secondly, Lisanna’s supposed “death” and subsequent reappearance from Edolas created a significant emotional impact, further solidifying the perceived romantic potential between them. Finally, the power of fan fiction and fan art cannot be underestimated. The desire to see them together is so strong that it has manifested in countless online stories and artworks, further fueling the misconception.
However, the canonical truth remains that their relationship, while deeply affectionate and supportive, never evolves into romantic love or marriage within the officially published content of Fairy Tail.
Examining the Canon: Why No Wedding Bells?
To understand why Natsu and Lisanna don’t marry, we must carefully analyze the series’ overarching narrative and character development. Natsu’s primary focus throughout Fairy Tail is on strength, friendship, and protecting his guildmates. His emotional capacity, while significant, is largely directed towards these goals, rather than romantic pursuits.
Furthermore, the narrative subtly, but consistently, pushes Natsu towards Lucy Heartfilia. Their dynamic is central to the plot, with Lucy acting as Natsu’s anchor and confidante. Hiro Mashima, the creator of Fairy Tail, has repeatedly hinted at a deeper connection between them, ultimately making it clear that NaLu (Natsu x Lucy) is the intended romantic pairing.
Lisanna, on the other hand, finds her place within the guild, rebuilding her relationships and supporting her siblings, Mirajane and Elfman. Her storyline focuses on her resilience and her contribution to the Fairy Tail family, rather than a romantic arc with Natsu.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Natsu/Lisanna Relationship
These frequently asked questions address common fan inquiries and further clarify the dynamic between Natsu and Lisanna.
H3 Q1: What was Natsu and Lisanna’s relationship like as children?
Natsu and Lisanna were very close friends during their childhood at Fairy Tail. They shared a strong bond, demonstrated by their joint effort in raising Happy’s egg. This fostered a sense of responsibility and camaraderie between them. They acted like siblings, deeply caring for one another.
H3 Q2: Did Lisanna actually die in the Fairy Tail storyline?
Lisanna was believed to be dead after a mission gone wrong. However, it was later revealed that she had been transported to Edolas, a parallel world. Her unexpected return was a major turning point for both her and Natsu.
H3 Q3: How did Natsu react to Lisanna’s return from Edolas?
Natsu was overjoyed and incredibly relieved when Lisanna returned. His reaction highlighted the depth of his affection for her, albeit as a close friend and family member. This reunion was a powerful emotional moment for the entire guild.
H3 Q4: Is there any evidence in the manga that suggests Natsu and Lisanna were romantically involved?
There is no explicit evidence in the manga that suggests a romantic involvement between Natsu and Lisanna. Their interactions are always depicted as familial and friendly, lacking the romantic tension present in Natsu’s interactions with Lucy.
H3 Q5: Why do some fans ship Natsu and Lisanna (NaLi)?
The appeal of NaLi stems from their shared history, their adorable childhood interactions, and the emotional impact of Lisanna’s supposed death and reappearance. Many fans find their bond endearing and believe it has the potential for romantic development, even if it’s not explicitly shown in the canon.
H3 Q6: Does Hiro Mashima (the creator) ever comment on the NaLi shipping?
Hiro Mashima generally avoids directly commenting on shipping wars. However, his consistent depiction of Natsu and Lucy’s relationship suggests that NaLu is his preferred pairing. He often provides subtle hints and moments that reinforce their bond.
H3 Q7: What are the main arguments against the NaLi pairing?
The main argument against the NaLi pairing is the lack of romantic development in the canon. Natsu’s interactions with Lisanna are consistently portrayed as platonic, while his relationship with Lucy shows clear signs of romantic tension and growth. Furthermore, the story arcs often focus on NaLu, strengthening the argument for their compatibility.
H3 Q8: Does Lisanna have any romantic interests in the Fairy Tail series?
While Lisanna doesn’t have a prominent romantic storyline, her relationship with Bickslow from the Thunder God Tribe is hinted at throughout the later arcs of the series. It is a subtle, yet noticeable connection that contributes to her character development outside of her relationship with Natsu.
H3 Q9: How does Lisanna’s relationship with her siblings impact her interactions with Natsu?
Lisanna’s close relationship with Mirajane and Elfman is a central aspect of her character. Her strong family bond provides a foundation for her relationships with others, including Natsu. This familial context influences her interactions with Natsu, shaping them as supportive and caring, rather than romantic.
H3 Q10: Is there a significant difference in how Natsu treats Lisanna versus how he treats Lucy?
Yes, there is a noticeable difference. Natsu’s interactions with Lisanna are generally more relaxed and comfortable, reflecting their long-standing friendship. With Lucy, there’s often a sense of protectiveness, admiration, and a growing emotional connection that hints at romantic feelings. This difference is crucial in understanding the narrative’s direction.
H3 Q11: What role does Lisanna play in the Fairy Tail guild after returning from Edolas?
After returning from Edolas, Lisanna reintegrates into the Fairy Tail guild as a valuable member. She uses her Take Over magic to assist in missions and provides emotional support to her fellow guildmates. She is a vital part of the Fairy Tail family.
H3 Q12: Will there ever be a Fairy Tail sequel or spin-off that explores the NaLi pairing?
While future Fairy Tail projects are always a possibility, there’s no concrete indication that a sequel or spin-off will specifically focus on the NaLi pairing. Given the established NaLu dynamic, it is unlikely that Hiro Mashima would drastically alter the romantic relationships within the Fairy Tail universe.
Conclusion: Friendship Over Romance
Ultimately, the relationship between Natsu and Lisanna is a testament to the power of friendship and the strength of the Fairy Tail family. While the romantic hopes of some fans remain unfulfilled, their bond continues to be an important and heartwarming element of the series. The evidence overwhelmingly points to their connection being one of deep platonic love and mutual support, rather than romantic destiny. Remember, even without marriage, their bond remains a crucial pillar of the Fairy Tail’s vibrant narrative.