Destructive lightning instantly tore through the air, blasting toward the immobilized Natsu. Yet at that critical moment-
"Iron Dragon Shield!"
A massive, thick iron shield abruptly rose from the ground, forcibly intercepting the raging lightning strike.
Amid the dust and smoke, Gajeel slowly emerged, rolling his shoulders, a defiant grin on his face:
"Looks like I got here just in time!"
Having caught his breath, Natsu forced himself to his feet. His body was still trembling, but his words were anything but polite:
"Stay out of this... Gajeel! I'm taking Laxus on alone!"
Gajeel cast him a sidelong glance and spat. "Quit trying to act tough when you're in that shape."
"You think I want to butt in? Whatever else he is, Laxus inherited that Makarov's blood. He's as strong as a monster."
"Besides, that green-haired pretty boy behind him hasn't even made a move yet."
Gajeel's gaze turned cold:
"I hate it, but if I want to settle the score, there's no other way."
"Let's take them together!"
Natsu was shocked:
"Huh?! Like I'd ever team up with you! I'm trying to beat some sense into Laxus!"
"Then that's all the more reason to team up! His goal threatens the entire guild! If we want to protect the guild, we have to stop him here!"
"Do you want to put the guild in danger just to get your own way?!"
The corners of Natsu's mouth dropped. Then he gave Gajeel a strange, disbelieving look:
"Protect the guild... I can't believe those words came out of your mouth."
Gajeel turned his head away, embarrassed and angry, and bellowed, "Shut up! Whether I protect it or destroy it is up to me!"
Natsu paused briefly, then broke into a wild grin:
"Just this once!"
"Obviously! One day, I'm settling things with