Zelgadiss knew something unusual would happen from the moment he opened his eyes that morning -- it was one of those strange things that sometimes happened to him, and only him.
So when Xellos suddenly appeared earlier, he hadn't been too surprised to say the least. It was a brief and an unpleasant encounter for Zelgadiss, but nevertheless, it had suddenly given Zelgadiss hope once again.
"So why don't YOU enter?" Zelgadiss had retorted arrogantly. He was sure there was a scheme behind all this cover up. A wish?? Another chance to become human again?!
"Mazoku and Dragons are restricted from participating!!" Xellos exclaimed theatrically. "Otherwise, even I'D jump at the chance, Zel~!!"
Zelgadiss took a moment to contemplate this. After a moment, he shrugged. "I suppose Lina knows about this competition too?"
"Of course!!"
"So why the hell would I join, knowing I would lose in an instant to one of her Dragon Slaves??"
Xellos smile widened to about twice it's size then. "There IS a way, Zelgadiss. And I can help you, on one condition. If you don't agree to the condition, then..." The rest was obvious -- who knew when another lead to a cure could turn up?
Zelgadiss sighed and leaned forward, trying hard not to show his interest. "And what would that condition be?" he asked.
"Kiss me."
Some days later... at the competition grounds.
"Zel!! Zelgadiss!!"
The chimera turned round and found Lina and Gourry waving wildly at him. They ran up to meet him.
Lina looked around her annoyedly at the huge crowds around her. "I didn't expect there to be THIS many people!!"
"That's a new broach you're wearing," Gourry observed. And it was; in place of the dull, red jewel that we are so familiar with, a deep, royal blue sapphire was set. It was glowing eerily.
Zelgadiss smiled, and lied through his teeth. "It's a talisman, Gourry. You know, a good luck charm to help me win."
Part 3 | Fanfiction