The fiery rivalry of Natsu Dragneel and Gajeel Redfox takes a surprising turn when they team up to face the formidable Sting Eucliffe. This tag-team battle occurs in Episode 173, “The Thunder Roars”, of the Fairy Tail anime.
The Clash of Dragon Slayers: A Detailed Analysis
The fight between Natsu and Gajeel against Sting is a pivotal moment in the Grand Magic Games arc, showcasing their growth and highlighting the power of friendship within the Fairy Tail guild. Understanding the context of this battle requires looking at the events leading up to it, the stakes involved, and the aftermath’s impact on the overall storyline.
The Context: Grand Magic Games and Sabertooth’s Dominance
The Grand Magic Games is a prestigious tournament that pits the strongest guilds in Fiore against each other. After being frozen in time for seven years, Fairy Tail returns to a drastically changed landscape. Sabertooth, led by the twin Dragon Slayers Sting Eucliffe and Rogue Cheney, reigns supreme. Sting, a White Dragon Slayer, holds a particular disdain for Natsu, believing that Dragon Slayers should surpass their mentors, an ideology he embodies by killing his foster father, Weisslogia.
The games serve as a platform for Fairy Tail to prove their strength and regain their former glory. The initial matches are challenging, and the tension between Fairy Tail and Sabertooth escalates rapidly. The match between Natsu and Gajeel versus Sting (and Rogue) is strategically placed to showcase the old guard against the new, embodying the rivalry between Fairy Tail and Sabertooth.
The Fight: A Battle of Wills and Power
Initially, the match is set to be a four-way battle: Natsu and Gajeel versus Sting and Rogue. However, Natsu, ever confident, decides to take on both Sting and Rogue simultaneously. This act of bravado forces Gajeel to step aside, though not without some initial reluctance.
The fight quickly intensifies, with Sting and Rogue unleashing their Dragon Force, a powerful transformation that enhances their abilities significantly. While Natsu holds his own for a considerable amount of time, the combined power of the twin Dragon Slayers proves overwhelming. Recognizing the danger, Gajeel steps in, transforming the match into a tag team battle.
The turning point comes when Gajeel, noticing Sting’s cocky attitude and reliance on Lector, his Exceed companion, targets Lector. Sting, protective of his friend, becomes distracted, allowing Natsu and Gajeel to capitalize. Ultimately, Natsu delivers the final blow to Sting, securing the victory for Fairy Tail.
The Aftermath: Shifting Dynamics and Personal Growth
The victory against Sting is a significant morale boost for Fairy Tail. It demonstrates their resilience and unwavering determination. However, the more important outcome is Sting’s character development. The loss forces him to re-evaluate his beliefs and confront the reality that strength isn’t solely about power, but also about friendship and camaraderie. This begins a path of redemption for Sting, eventually leading him to form a more respectful relationship with Natsu and the other Fairy Tail members. The fight also solidified the importance of guild bonds which is the core of Fairy Tail’s success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did Natsu decide to fight both Sting and Rogue at first?
Natsu’s decision stemmed from his characteristic confidence and desire to prove Fairy Tail’s strength. He saw the fight as an opportunity to showcase his power and send a message to Sabertooth that they shouldn’t underestimate Fairy Tail. He also believed in testing his own limits and pushing himself to become stronger.
What is Dragon Force, and why is it important?
Dragon Force is a powerful transformation achieved by Dragon Slayers that grants them enhanced strength, speed, and magical abilities. It essentially allows them to partially transform into a dragon. Its importance lies in its ability to drastically increase a Dragon Slayer’s power, often making them nearly unbeatable. Sting and Rogue using Dragon Force highlighted their status as powerful, next-generation Dragon Slayers.
Why was Gajeel hesitant to initially join Natsu in the fight?
Gajeel’s hesitation stemmed from his own pride and rivalry with Natsu. He wanted to prove his own strength and initially saw Natsu’s brash decision as a slight against him. He also has a history of independent behavior, so readily teaming up isn’t always his first instinct.
What role did Lector play in the fight?
Lector is Sting’s Exceed companion and a crucial emotional anchor for him. Sting’s concern for Lector’s safety distracted him during the fight, allowing Natsu and Gajeel to exploit his vulnerability. The emotional connection between a Dragon Slayer and their Exceed is often portrayed as a source of strength and support.
How did this fight contribute to Sting’s character development?
The defeat against Natsu and Gajeel forced Sting to question his beliefs about strength and his relationship with Lector. He realized that simply surpassing his foster father didn’t make him inherently stronger or better. It led him to understand the importance of friendship and the power of working together, ultimately leading to a more positive and empathetic character arc.
What episode does Rogue Cheney use his Shadow Drive in the fight?
While Rogue uses his Shadow Drive throughout the Grand Magic Games arc, it’s not explicitly featured in Episode 173 during the initial clash. His Shadow Drive is shown more prominently in other battles, highlighting his unique Shadow Dragon Slayer magic.
How is Sting’s White Dragon Slayer magic different from Natsu’s Fire Dragon Slayer magic?
Sting’s White Dragon Slayer magic focuses on utilizing the element of light, granting him enhanced speed, power, and the ability to generate blinding attacks. Natsu’s Fire Dragon Slayer magic allows him to consume and manipulate fire, enhancing his strength and granting him immunity to flames. The difference is elemental, leading to different combat styles and special abilities.
What was the overall impact of this fight on Fairy Tail’s performance in the Grand Magic Games?
The victory against Sting was a turning point for Fairy Tail. It boosted their morale and provided a much-needed win against the seemingly unbeatable Sabertooth. It gave them the confidence to continue fighting and ultimately contributed to their eventual victory in the Grand Magic Games.
Did Natsu and Gajeel ever fight together like this again in the series?
While Natsu and Gajeel have fought side-by-side in other battles, their teamwork in the fight against Sting is one of their most memorable collaborations. They often have moments of rivalry and independent action, but their underlying loyalty and camaraderie allow them to effectively cooperate when necessary. The team up isn’t a common occurrence but highlights their deep bond.
What are some other notable fights involving Natsu in the Grand Magic Games arc?
Other notable fights involving Natsu in the Grand Magic Games arc include his battles against Sabertooth’s twin Dragon Slayers in the final round and his brief encounter with future Rogue. These fights showcase Natsu’s growth as a Dragon Slayer and his unwavering determination to protect his friends.
How does this fight compare to Natsu’s other battles in terms of difficulty and significance?
The fight against Sting (and Rogue) is considered one of Natsu’s more challenging battles in the Grand Magic Games arc due to the power of his opponents and the stakes involved. Its significance lies in its impact on both Fairy Tail’s overall performance and Sting’s character development.
What makes the dynamic between Natsu and Gajeel so compelling for fans?
The dynamic between Natsu and Gajeel is compelling because of their initial rivalry, contrasting personalities, and eventual camaraderie. They started as enemies but gradually developed a mutual respect and understanding. Their constant banter and competitive spirit provide both comedic relief and moments of genuine emotional connection, making them one of the most popular pairings in the Fairy Tail series.