A/N: Standard disclaimer, no rights of ownership, etc. etc. If you like this story, make sure to check out its sequels. There are a whole crazy mess of them now. Also view the accompanying fanart at my website, www.vejiitasei.com.
You can view this story in its un-chaptered form at my website, also. I went back and broke it up into chapters because I was getting complaints that it was too long. Sorry if the chapter divisions seem awkward in places, or if some chapters seem too short or too long. That's what happens when you write a story without chapter divisions, and then later chop it up.
Reviews are welcome!!
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Several hours later, after he and Amelia had healed Lina and Gourry, they trudged back to Seyruun. The ramparts were smoking, and the walls had been breached in a few places, but otherwise the city was quiet. The bodies of beasts and trolls were everywhere, but few humans had been killed. He felt Amelia's hand grip his elbow and he looked down into her eyes. Do you think Daddy's okay? she whispered, fear evident on her face.
Of course, he said gently. Not even Kanzel could kill your father, remember?
Oh, yeah, she replied, hanging her head. Still, do you think we could hurry?
he answered, and turned to Lina and Gourry. We're going to go ahead and see if we can find Prince Phil. Do you mind?
Lina rolled her eyes and waved her hand in the air. Of course not, she said. Go ahead.
Thank you, Miss Lina! Amelia said, and took to the air, towing him behind her.
They didn't have to fly long, landing almost immediately at the main wing of the palace. Amelia barged through the multitudes of guards until they entered her father's study. Behind the desk sat Philionel, dirty but very much alive. he cried, rising and catching her in his arms as she vaulted his desk.
Daddy! You're okay! she squealed in between giggles.
Zelgadis smiled to himself as he watched the happy reunion. If Amelia loved him even half as much as she adored her father he'd be happy. Somehow, however, he suspected she might love him even more than he thought. Prince Phil, I brought her back, safe and sound.
I knew you would, Phil replied with a grin. You're a very trustworthy young man.
Zelgadis executed a little bow. How did you manage to defeat the hordes? he asked solemnly.
Well, it was tight, but the soldiers of peace cannot be defeated, Phil declared. It didn't hurt that most of the lesser monsters disappeared several hours ago.
It must have been when Lina defeated Deep Sea Dolphin's minions, Zelgadis breathed.
I'm just glad we're all still here, Phil said. The details don't matter.
Zelgadis met Amelia's shining eyes and felt peace settle over him for the first time in what felt like ages. He couldn't believe that he had ever considered staying away from her side. Prince Phil, I'd like to ask you a question, if I may, he said quietly.
Amelia said, eyes wide, and she inhaled sharply, holding her breath.
What is it, Master Zelgadis? Phil asked.
Zelgadis came around the corner of the desk and knelt before the Prince, bowing his head. I would like to ask for Amelia's hand in marriage, he said, surprised by the steadiness of his voice. He was sure that it would break and quiver to match the mad pounding of his heart.
Prince Phil broke out into deep laughter, his whole body shaking. I was wondering if you'd ever get around to asking that question, he boomed. But her hand isn't mine to give. Amelia, do you want this man to be your husband?
Yes, Daddy, she breathed, and Zelgadis raised his head, smiling.
Then I have no problem with it at all! Phil chuckled, motioning for Zelgadis to rise. When's the wedding?
Whenever Amelia wants it to be, Zelgadis answered.
she cried.
Phil put a hand to his chin, closing his eyes. Three months, he said. Can you wait that long? I'm afraid this will have to be a state affair.
I can wait as long as it takes, Zelgadis said.
