Why Was Gajeel Not Left Behind During the Edolas Arc? An Analysis

Have you ever wondered why Gajeel Redfox, unlike his dragon slayer comrades Natsu and Wendy, was not left behind during the Edolas arc in Fairy Tail? This article delves into the unique circumstances that led to Gajeel’s inclusion in the Edolas journey, exploring the roles of Exceed partners, character development, and the assistance provided by Mystogan.

The Role of Exceed Partners

One of the primary reasons why many dragon slayers were left behind in the Edolas arc was their reliance on Exceed partners. Gajeel, like Natsu (who has Happy) and Wendy (who has Carla), did not have an Exceed. This put an additional constraint on their travel to Edolas, as Exceeds possess the magic required to open the portals to this other dimension. Therefore, Natsu, Wendy, and Lucy were left behind due to their need for their respective Exceed partners' assistance.

Since Gajeel did not have an Exceed, he was not constrained by the same travel limitations. This unique situation offers a clear explanation for his absence from the initial group left behind during the Edolas arc.

Character Development and Story Dynamics

Another significant factor in Gajeel’s inclusion in the Edolas arc is his character development and his role within the story. Gajeel’s background and psychological journey are significantly different from those of other dragon slayers like Natsu, Wendy, or Lucy. His complex past and fierce determination to protect those he cares about were key elements that set him apart from his fellow dragon slayers.

Following his near-death experience via the invasion of Mystogan, Gajeel underwent a transformation. He became an unwilling messenger and a loyal protector for Mystogan, a role that was both challenging and deeply personal. This transformation allowed Gajeel to reveal his hidden emotions and vulnerabilities, providing a rich narrative progression that complemented his status within the story.

The Assistance of Mystogan

The assistance of Mystogan also played a crucial role in Gajeel’s journey to Edolas. As the agent responsible for managing the portal access between the two worlds, Mystogan played a significant part in facilitating the travel of Gajeel (along with Natsu, Wendy, and Lucy) to Edolas.

When Natsu and Wendy first found Gajeel in Edolas, the absence of visible Exceed partners initially puzzled some fans. However, the fact that Gajeel was able to make the journey to Edolas, just like his dragon slayer friends, is a testament to the support he received from Mystogan. This assistance ensured that Gajeel could contribute to the story’s progression in Edolas without the need for an Exceed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reasons for Gajeel Redfox’s inclusion in the Edolas arc are multifaceted. His unique lack of an Exceed partner, coupled with his personal development and the support provided by Mystogan, set him apart from the other dragon slayers who were initially left behind. This unique status not only enriched Gajeel’s character arc but also fulfilled the narrative needs of the Fairy Tail storyline in Edolas.