Zelgadis Graywords is a chimera who is both the great grandson and grandson (yeah, when incest is best) of Rezzo the Red Priest. A chimera is a created being that is part demon, part golim, and part human. 'Zel began life as a human and his legendary ancestor gave "'Zel the power he thought he wanted by transforming him. One of Zel's primary goals is to find a spell powerful enough to change him back. Zelgadis is an interesteing character because he really isn't good or bad. Sure, he helps Linna and her gang for the most part, but that's only because their plans further his own goals. In the beginning of Slayers Next, 'Zel keeps trying to go off on his own. (Who can blame him, I'd want to get away from Amelia too.) Also, he is unfailingly courteous, soft-spoken, and is very rational. (Linna's exact opposite.)
Spells/Attacks
Zelgadis is both a powerful magician and a master swordsman. He practices white or shamanistic magic, and can perform the highest level white magic spell, the ra tilt. Also, being part golim has it's advantages. 'Zel's body is made of rock, enabling him to absorb sword blows that would cut a normal person in half. In fact, swords have been known to shatter on impact with his body.
Nicknames
As far as I know, Zelgadis' only nickname is the shortened version, 'Zel.
