The epic showdown between Escanor and Meliodas, a clash of immense power and contrasting ideologies, unfolds in episode 24 of season 2 (Revival of the Commandments), titled “The Battle.” This is the climactic point where their pent-up rivalry explodes, showcasing the pinnacle of their individual strengths.
The Build-Up to the Clash: Seeds of Conflict
The anticipation for Escanor and Meliodas’s battle had been meticulously cultivated throughout the second season of Nanatsu no Taizai (The Seven Deadly Sins). Meliodas, constantly pushing his limits to regain his lost power, and Escanor, the embodiment of pride fueled by the sun, were destined to collide. The threat of the Ten Commandments served as the backdrop, forcing the Sins to confront their own weaknesses and unlock their hidden potentials.
The growing awareness of Escanor’s formidable power, exceeding even Meliodas’s early suppressed abilities, created a sense of unease and curiosity. The other Sins, particularly Diane and King, witnessed glimpses of Escanor’s immense strength during their battles, further fueling the anticipation for a full-blown confrontation with Meliodas. The internal conflict within Meliodas, grappling with his demonic heritage and the desire to protect his comrades, added another layer of complexity to the impending battle.
Power Dynamics at Play
Understanding the power dynamics is crucial to appreciating the significance of this fight. Meliodas, initially holding back his true power, was gradually forced to unleash more of his demonic abilities to contend with the escalating threats posed by the Commandments. Meanwhile, Escanor’s power, Sunshine, is directly linked to the sun’s position, making him virtually invincible at noon, aptly named “The One.” This fundamental difference in their power sources shaped the nature of their battle, forcing Meliodas to fight smart and strategically.
The Battle in Episode 24: A Clash of Titans
Episode 24 meticulously portrays the intensity and sheer destructive power of the Escanor versus Meliodas fight. The episode opens with both characters acknowledging each other as formidable opponents. The battle isn’t just about brute strength; it’s a strategic dance of power and skill.
Meliodas’s Tactics and Limitations
Meliodas, knowing the limitations of his power against Escanor at noon, employs various techniques to exploit Escanor’s vulnerabilities. He uses Full Counter to reflect Escanor’s magical attacks, aiming to redirect his opponent’s power against him. However, Escanor’s sheer power begins to overwhelm Meliodas’s defensive capabilities. Meliodas’s primary limitation is his inability to maintain a level of power comparable to Escanor’s during his peak hours, specifically noon. This forces him to rely on his cunning and tactical prowess.
Escanor’s Unmatched Power: “The One”
Escanor, reaching the apex of his power as “The One,” becomes nearly invincible. His strength surpasses Meliodas’s demonic power, forcing Meliodas to acknowledge the overwhelming difference in their capabilities during that specific time. The episode visually depicts the sheer scale of Escanor’s power, showcasing his dominance and unwavering confidence. This is a key moment demonstrating the devastating potential of Sunshine and its ability to reach unimaginable heights.
The Aftermath and Impact
The immediate aftermath of their fight is significant. Although a conclusive “winner” is not explicitly declared in the first encounter (due to extenuating circumstances and the intervention of other Sins), it establishes Escanor as a force to be reckoned with, even by the Captain of the Seven Deadly Sins. The fight’s impact extends beyond the immediate conflict, shaping the future interactions and alliances within the group as they prepare for even greater challenges. It serves as a crucial turning point, influencing the power scaling and tactical considerations moving forward in the series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What season and episode does Escanor and Meliodas’s fight take place?
The primary Escanor vs. Meliodas fight is featured in season 2 (Revival of the Commandments), episode 24, titled “The Battle.”
Q2: What are the key differences between Meliodas and Escanor’s powers?
Meliodas wields Full Counter and demonic power, which allows him to reflect magic attacks and unleash devastating physical blows. Escanor possesses Sunshine, a grace granted by the Supreme Deity, which grants him immense strength that increases with the rise of the sun, reaching its peak at noon, when he becomes “The One.”
Q3: Why does Escanor get stronger throughout the day?
Escanor’s power, Sunshine, is directly linked to the sun. The closer it is to noon, the more power he accumulates. This means he is weakest at night and strongest at midday.
Q4: What is ‘The One’ form, and when does Escanor achieve it?
“The One” is Escanor’s peak power level, attained precisely at noon. In this form, he is considered virtually invincible, embodying unparalleled strength and speed.
Q5: Does Meliodas ever defeat Escanor?
While Meliodas shows improvement over time, he never truly defeats Escanor in a definitive, one-on-one battle where both are at their absolute peaks without external factors influencing the outcome. The fight in episode 24, and subsequent skirmishes, usually lean towards Escanor’s dominance during noon. Later encounters show Meliodas getting closer, but “The One” is difficult to overcome.
Q6: How does Full Counter work against Escanor’s attacks?
Meliodas’s Full Counter can reflect magical attacks back at the opponent with amplified power. However, Full Counter is ineffective against direct physical attacks. This poses a limitation against Escanor, whose attacks are often physical manifestations of his immense power (like his axe, Rhitta, or his overwhelming strength).
Q7: What is the significance of Rhitta, Escanor’s sacred treasure?
Rhitta is Escanor’s sacred treasure axe, which allows him to store and release his Sunshine power. He can draw power from Rhitta even during nighttime to a limited extent, and at noon, it becomes an extension of his overwhelming power. It acts as a conduit for focusing his strength.
Q8: What role do the Ten Commandments play in the fight between Meliodas and Escanor?
The Ten Commandments serve as the catalyst for pushing Meliodas to regain his power and for the Sins to test their limits. They are a constant threat that forces both Meliodas and Escanor to strive for greater strength.
Q9: Are there any other significant battles between Escanor and Meliodas besides the one in episode 24?
While episode 24 features the most prominent clash, there are subsequent skirmishes and tests of strength between them. However, none have quite the same build-up and impact as the first encounter. These later battles are more about assessing each other’s progress.
Q10: How does Escanor’s personality affect his fighting style?
Escanor’s pride is a fundamental aspect of his character and directly influences his fighting style. His confidence and belief in his own power fuel his attacks, making him even more formidable. He often displays a condescending attitude towards his opponents, further amplifying his dominance.
Q11: What are some memorable quotes from the Escanor vs. Meliodas fight?
One of the most iconic quotes is Escanor’s “Who decided that?,” often used when challenged or doubted. Another notable quote is when he declares that he is the one standing at the top. These lines highlight his immense pride and unwavering confidence.
Q12: What makes the Escanor vs. Meliodas fight so popular among fans of Nanatsu no Taizai?
The fight is popular due to the contrasting power dynamics, the epic scale of their abilities, the clash of personalities, and the exceptional animation. It represents a pivotal moment in the series, showcasing the immense power of both characters and solidifying their positions as fan favorites. It is a visually stunning and emotionally charged battle that encapsulates the core themes of the series.