(dub) 99 : Natsu Vs. Gildarts ⏰

Despite this milestone, Natsu’s spirit is tested when Gildarts decides to get serious. To show Natsu that raw power alone does not make an S-Class Mage, Gildarts releases his . The intensity is so overwhelming it causes the ground to shatter and fills Natsu with a paralyzing sense of dread.

From the moment the battle begins, the power gap is staggering. Natsu launches himself at Gildarts with his signature , only for Gildarts to stop it effortlessly with his bare hands. Throughout the early phase of the duel, Gildarts remains largely stationary, dodging and repelling Natsu’s most creative attacks without moving a single step. (Dub) 99 : Natsu Vs. Gildarts

Gildarts declares Natsu has passed the first round, not because he won the fight, but because he learned the humility and courage necessary for an elite wizard. Impact on the Series Despite this milestone, Natsu’s spirit is tested when

A turning point occurs when Gildarts accidentally uses his (specifically Disassembly Magic) on Natsu. Instead of being obliterated, Natsu is split into dozens of tiny "mini-Natsus" . In a display of sheer determination, these small versions of the Dragon Slayer swarm Gildarts, refusing to yield despite their diminished size. The Break-Through Moment From the moment the battle begins, the power

Annoyed by the relentless swarm, Gildarts returns Natsu to his original form. Natsu immediately seizes the opening to unleash his . While the massive explosion leaves Gildarts completely unharmed, it manages to do something unprecedented: it forces him to take a step back from his original position. For Natsu, who grew up being pummeled by Gildarts without ever making him budge, this is a monumental personal victory. A Lesson in Fear