The golden sun bathed the capital city of Liones in a soft, warm light. Along the cobbled streets, the cheerful shouts of merchants mingled with the laughter of children. Between colorful market tents, townsfolk bustled about with smiles, sharing stories and local goods in a peaceful, festive air. On the tavern terraces, mugs of Vania ale clinked together in roaring good cheer.
But the most precious laughter echoed within the royal castle's inner courtyard.
"You'll never catch me, Mother!" cried a young boy with silver hair, brimming with life.
"Oh really? You think you can outrun your own mother?" Elizabeth laughed, chasing after him across the fresh green grass.
Sitting in the shade of a tall tree, Meliodas watched the scene with soft, affectionate eyes. Arms crossed and a gentle smile tugging at his lips, he savored the rare moment of calm. His gaze followed Tristan — their four-year-old son — darting joyfully around his mother. One eye blue, the other green — a perfect bridge between his two parents.
Suddenly, the little prince dove into his father's arms, his face lit up with joy.
"Father! Come play with us! C'mon!"
Meliodas gently ruffled Tristan's hair.
"I hope you've got some stamina left, little warrior… 'cause if I catch you…" — he made a goofy, exaggerated face — "I'm gonna eat you up!"
"Eeeek! No you won't!" Tristan screamed, dashing off.
A genuine laugh burst out. Meliodas leapt up in one swift motion and took off after his son, weaving and pouncing in a playful dance of feints and laughter. Elizabeth watched them, her heart glowing with quiet happiness.
In this fleeting, idyllic moment, time seemed to stand still.
And yet… Meliodas felt his chest tighten just a little.
These moments… I'd give anything to protect them.
The King of Liones — once feared as the most ruthless of all demons — was now a loving father and husband. But more than anyone, he understood just how fragile peace could be… like a bubble, beautiful but ready to burst.
And somewhere, in the distant shadows…
Something had already begun to stir.
Peace never lasts forever.