In the end, Erza discovered the commotion over here and gave Millianna and Natsu a swift rap on the head each, finally rescuing Happy.
At a table near the encampment, the atmosphere assumed a rather bizarre vibe.
Wally and Elfman sat across from each other. One was a square-headed block-man wearing sunglasses and a suit, while the other was a burly, fierce-looking beast-man.
The two sat opposite each other, neither speaking, simply sizing each other up across a table as the tension mounted inexplicably.
"Lisanna, what are those two doing?" Lucy twitched the corners of her mouth nervously and muttered softly.
"I don't know... They've been like that ever since they met. They've maintained that posture for over ten minutes." Lisanna lowered her voice as well, looking somewhat amused and exasperated.
Finally, Wally pushed up his sunglasses, taking the lead to break the silence in a low voice:
"The creature known as a man... is one who chews up his pain and swallows it down mixed with bitter liquor."
Elfman's eyes lit up as he slammed a fist onto the table with a bang: "Well said! A true man carries everything on his own shoulders!"
"A tough guy's back never explains itself to anyone."
"A real man's fist is the best explanation!"
"A tough guy... doesn't need a companion's tears."
"It's fine to cry; you can just smile again. That's what makes a real man."
"A tough guy... is always lonely..."
"A real man should grow strong for the sake of others!"
As their voices fell, the two paused simultaneously, and the air froze once more.
Wally slowly removed his sunglasses, staring intently at Elfman with burning eyes: "This exchange between tough guys makes a guy inexplicably want to drink. Sure enough, men have a thirst that only alcohol