THE GAME

Author's Note: This story takes place during episode 7 of Evolution-R.

They were never talking about chess.


Zelgadis stared at the chess board for five minutes without making a move.

Six minutes.

"Zelgadis-san," Amelia's tone was impatient.

"I know, I know..." he said, finally moving his piece.

"Ah ha!" Amelia exclaimed. "I've got you now!"

She moved her piece into position.

Zelgadis narrowed his eyes.

In just three more moves, Amelia would have him in check. He was still baffled as to how she did it, but she always seemed to win.

"I made a mistake," Zelgadis stated, quietly. "Let me take it back."

"No way, I've already given you enough chances," Amelia said, crossing her arms.

"But Amelia, you know I need more time. You were pressuring me."

Amelia shook her head. "I was not, Zelgadis-san. I haven't pressured you for a long time."

Zelgadis gave a low growl.

"Fine," he said.

He stared at the board for seven minutes, trying to figure out how to save himself. But there was no escape.

He made his move.

"You know, Zelgadis-san," Amelia said and she moved her own piece quickly, "We don't have to keep playing."

"I know," Zelgadis answered, not looking at the princess. "But if we stop, how will I ever improve?"

Amelia nodded, but said nothing.

Zelgadis made his next move fairly quickly. No use in delaying the inevitable.

"Amelia, I won't lose forever."

"I know," she said, moving her piece. "Check."

"So, how long will you keep playing with me?" Zelgadis looked up at the young woman.

"Either until you finally win, or until I get tired of waiting for you to make a move."

Zelgadis huffed. "That's not fair! I don't know how long it will be until I win."

He made his final move, slamming the piece down on the table.

Amelia slowly raised her own piece, and cornered the chimera's king.

"I know," she said, placing the white rook down while lifting Zelgadis' black king from the board and twirling it between her fingers.

"I guess that's why we're destined to play forever."

She smiled at him.

Zelgadis shook his head. "But you just said..."

"Checkmate."