The soft morning light streamed through the stained-glass windows of Liones Castle, bathing the guest room in a peaceful warmth.
Lying in bed, Zephir slowly opened his eyes.
Every muscle in his body screamed in pain. Each breath was a reminder of the battle he had fought.
He sat up with difficulty, grimacing, and let his feet touch the floor.
Wrapped in bandages from head to toe, he limped toward the window.
The familiar landscape of the kingdom stretched out before him — calm, serene.
"Liones… I'm alive…" he whispered.
But one thought, stronger than the pain, surged in his mind:
"Where's my family?"
He staggered toward the door, seeking answers.
But halfway there, his legs gave out. He collapsed to his knees, breathless from the strain.
At that moment, the door burst open.
Zephir looked up.
"…Rebecca…"
His daughter stood in the doorway, a basket of apples in her arms.
She froze, stunned.
Then the apples fell to the floor, scattering.
She ran straight to him.
"DAD!!! You're alive!!!"
She threw herself into his arms, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Zephir held her close, trembling with emotion.
"Hey, sweetheart… I'm sorry I scared you…"
Seconds later, Miranda entered, cradling their baby.
When she saw her husband on the floor, wrapped in his daughter's embrace, her legs nearly gave out.
She rushed to him, knelt down, and wrapped her arms around them both, sobbing freely.
"…You idiot… We missed you so much…"
Zephir, throat tight, held them close.
The baby cooed softly in Miranda's arms — and warmth spread through his chest.
"I'm home…"
Two familiar silhouettes appeared in the doorway.
"Looks like you're back among the living, little brother," came a teasing voice.
It was Meliodas, arms crossed, smirking as always.
Beside him stood Zeldris, more reserved, but clearly relieved.
"…What happened?" Zephir asked hoarsely.
Zeldris stepped closer, arms still crossed.
"Néo is dead. The rebels have been captured.
You've been asleep… for five days."
"…Five days…?" Zephir echoed, stunned.
Meliodas approached and laid a firm hand on his shoulder.
"You fought like a true prince. And you lived. That's what matters."
He locked eyes with him.
"Welcome home, little brother."
Zephir smiled.
A real smile.
A peaceful smile.
He had survived the darkness.
He had protected what mattered most.
And now… he could finally live.
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THE END