WARNING: The following contains spoilers for Season 5 of The Seven Deadly Sins, now streaming on Netflix.
Since his introduction in Season 3 of The Seven Deadly Sins anime, Escanor has captured the hearts of many fans with his unique ability, "Sunshine." Though weak at night, Escanor becomes one of the most powerful characters in the series during the day. This is due to Sunshine steadily increasing his power during the day, peaking at noon, and gradually falling back to his normal state at night.
Interestingly, along with his increase in energy, Escanor’s personality changes from that of a timid man at night to an arrogant Holy Knight during the day. But, how did Escanor acquire this ability, and where did it come from?
Escanor initially believed he was cursed, as controlling his emotions became problematic during the day due to the effects of Sunshine's power. However, even Escanor himself did not know why he was granted this ability.
Season 5 of The Seven Deadly Sins changes that. Following the reveal that Esterossa’s true identity is the Archangel Mael, it is stated that Mael had lost his Grace due to his actions as a demon soldier. This grace was Sunshine. According to Mael in Episode 10, "The Salvation of the Sun," the crimes he committed after Gowther corrupted him made him an unsuitable host for the divine power, forcing it to abandon him. After 3,000 years, the Grace selected a new host: Escanor.
In Episode 9, "That Which Gathers," Escanor and Merlin push their opponents, Chandler and Cusack, to the edge of their abilities. Facing defeat, the demonic pair merge, emerging as the Original Demon. Despite his claim that he and Merlin are more than enough to defeat the creature, Escanor is quickly defeated and sent flying away, his power from Sunshine depleted.
As Escanor flies through the air defeated, he pleads for help, stating that he is willing to give up anything, even his powers, to help save his friends. As if summoned by the thought, Mael appears, claiming that Sunshine had guided him to Escanor. As the pair fly towards the battle, along with Diane, Gowther, Hawk and King, Escanor offers to return Sunshine to Mael. However, Mael refuses, stating that he is no longer worthy of bearing the Grace, and Escanor is its rightful owner. Insistent that they cannot defeat the demons without the Grace, Escanor offers to lend Sunshine to Mael.
Back on the battlefield, Merlin and Ludociel are pushed into a corner by the Original Demon. As defeat appears imminent, the cloud of darkness surrounding the combatants suddenly vanishes, revealing Mael, now using Sunshine. Almost as soon as he appears, he blasts the Original Demon away using Sunshine, instantly defeating it.
However, Zeldris is still present and attacks Mael using his ability, Ominous Nebula, and taking advantage of its undodgeable nature. Though the attack lands, Mael is unharmed, and Zeldris’ weapon begins to melt due to Mael coating his body with Sunshine. Instantly, Mael reveals his proficiency with the Grace is leagues above Escanor’s use of the power. With Mael now having regained his full strength, he hopes this will be enough to end the Holy War.
