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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She remembered the first time she ever saw him. He had scared her a little then, but now the only thing that frightened her was the prospect of being without him. As she gazed at him across the small table, however, she realized that she would never again be parted with him if she did not so choose. He gazed out the window at the setting sun, his sharp profile the most elegant thing she had ever seen. she asked softly, feeling warm as he turned a gentle gaze upon her.

Yes, Amelia? he answered.

Are you afraid?

Of what?

Not afraid, I guess, but nervous? About our future?

Nervous? I suppose, he replied, looking out the window again. I don't really know where to go from here. Forever is a long time, and I'm not sure that I know how to help you rule a country.

She beamed at him, glad that he had echoed her own fears, more or less. I feel the same way, she said. Except that I know that with you by my side, we'll get through all of it just fine.

He closed his eyes, and she thought that it was the first time she had ever seen him look content. It doesn't bother you that I'm not fully human? he whispered. You're not worried about the physical dimension of our marriage?

she replied confidently. Your heart is human, and I love you. That's all that matters now, and it's all that ever will matter.

He sighed and looked down at the table, then gently covered her hand with his. I guess I'll just have to take your word for it, then.

I guess so, she said brightly, then turned her head as she heard a knock on the door. Come in, she replied.

Amelia? Zel? Lina said, poking her head into the room.

Lina and Gourry came into the room, then Lina spotted Zelgadis' hand on hers. What the? she murmured.

Amelia couldn't contain herself any longer. Miss Lina, we're getting married! she blurted.

Gourry laughed and came over, scooping up Amelia in a bear hug. he cried, swinging her around. He set her down and shook Zelgadis' hand heartily.

Lina chuckled as well, putting her hands on her hips and shaking her head. Well, it was bound to happen someday, she murmured. I'm happy for you two.

Yeah, you guys really belong together, Gourry agreed. It's not everyday that two best friends get married.

All's well that ends well, eh? Lina said.

Amelia looked over at Zelgadis, their eyes meeting and holding the gaze for long moments. His face softened with tenderness and a small smile graced his lips. She knew that his gaze was only for her, and would be for the rest of their lives. Everything had come full circle; the strange circumnavigation of their feelings had finally been set to rest.

they said in unison.