Author's Notes: Blah, another month for an update, sorry. These chapters really take it out of me and as mentioned before school is demanding and takes priority. Hm, what to say about this chapter? I think it's a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed writing Balthier's dialog. Credit goes to my boyfriend, Gohan2z I providing me dialog, suggestions and editing for this project. Now go on and enjoy it :)

Again I'd like to dedicate all the Vaan and Penelo goodness to my friend Feeny, because they need more love.

And also dedicate the chapter to my friends Earisu and Baschashe since they have been so patient for Basch/Ashe stuff. Not to mention a special dedication to Famke, she will know when she sees the part ;)

Chapters' Theme Song(s): First half begins with "Naivety" from the FFXII Soundtrack, followed by "Eye Catching" and "Slew of Love Letters" both from Final Fantasy IX (I switched between the two when necessary, I'mma dork). Ironically, the song "How to Save a Life" by The Fray was also very inspiring when writing this XD

"A Month had passed after Al-Cid's News of the Aonad Law. Queen Ashe put that worry aside as governing Dalmasca took precedence. The two Sky Pirates, Balthier and Fran were now her Envoys, relaying Word at behest of Her Highness. It was not the Normal Life of a Pirate, but the Reward was too tempting for One such as Balthier.

In Archadia, Larsa was hard at work with the Plan they had devised, while also enjoying the Company of Vaan and Penelo who were now in His Service. Despite His age, He and Penelo would become close which would soon start causing a Conflict between the Three Youths."

- Marquis Halim Ondore IV

"Solitary Queen"

The Strahl's engines thrummed as it cut through the clouds, flying smoothly over the territory of Rozarria. Balthier had put the controls on auto-pilot as he sat back in his chair happily counting the gil from a hefty pouch generously donated by one of Ashe's potential suitors. Fran said nothing, and with her chin resting on her palm she languidly watched the red trees of Rozarria below them. Occasionally her companion would let out a small snicker or two, causing her eyes to fall on him.

For the past month, the two pirates took on the job of being Ashe's envoys. Balthier had been reluctant at first, leaving Rabanastre with little enthusiasm. He devised a means to rob these suitors blind as he lied to them, using his silver tongue and glib grace to weave stories to further delay any man who was feeling ambitious. To his surprise and delight, these men were grateful for any bit of news about the Queen, and showered them with gifts to give to the ruler of Dalmasca.

"We will give these to Her Majesty right away," Balthier would lie. Fran said nothing for a time, watching the Sky Pirate who grinned ear to ear as servants would pack stacks upon stacks of crates containing jewelry, gold, and other assortment of treasures.

Her Majesty never did get those gifts.

Since then, Balthier's mood had done a complete turn around. No sooner did Ashe receive a letter from a suitor, he was ready to leave at her request. She was surprised by this, and when she looked to the Viera, Fran only shook her head. Balthier would put on a show with a certain artistic flourish for Ashe's would-be suitors. The idea of being paid to lie was a prospect that seemed too good to be true, but Balthier used his greatest talent to its utmost extent and his audiences were always fooled. Many of his stories were kept simple, ranging from tales of the Queen falling ill, or matters of state that were too overwhelming which denied any audience with "such handsome candidates". Then, for his final hurrah and to ensure his payment, in Her Majesty's name, Balthier would extend a heartfelt apology that sent many of these suitors to tears and their bags of treasure to the cargo hold of his ship.

Fran still stared at her partner who cinched the strap about the bag of gil. He noticed her gaze and only smirked.

"I did not know her highness would take to deceiving others," Fran began. "Not since we first met her."

"Yes she has a surprising talent for it; perhaps such things come with a crown." He replied.

"Or maybe she has spent too much time with the likes of us," the Viera said, arching one eyebrow at Balthier.

Her partner seemed to miss the hint. "In that case our service is even more valued then I thought." He directed that smirk of his towards her. "You have to admit, Fran it has been quite beneficial. Not only does Ashe keep true to her word, but these suitors are all too eager in rewarding us."

She nodded. "Who knew rich men were so eager to give away their valuables."

"Most likely because there might be a queen waiting on the other end, poor fools," Balthier shook his head.

"But I fear these lies won't hold for very long." Fran stated.

"True, but there is nothing we can do about it except enjoy the ride." Balthier's smirk broadened.

Vaan had never seen so many books in his entire life. He sat alone in Larsa's personal study going over books and various parchments, overlooking maps and memorizing cities. The entire thing had not been his idea, Penelo urged him to educate himself in the world. He whined of course, but when she brought up the point of a good sky pirate knowing his locations, the boy's tune changed. So here he was, trying to focus on a map of Landis. So far he understood that it was to the North, and that a relative of Larsa's now governed it. Vaan realized that trying to understand the politics of each territory was as painful as trying to stare at the sun. He preferred learning through experience, not with politics of course, but by visiting each country and learning the more interesting aspects they had to offer. Rozarria was intriguing as well as Penelo's favorite, and from what Vaan learned majority of Al-Cid's brothers (including him) specialize in espionage. Archadia seemed to be the main hub for fashion and technology, yet it was Dalmasca that flourished with travelers due to its location in between the two powerful nations.

The young man sighed and rolled up the map and when he looked at the pile of books Penelo suggested he read, his head met the desk with a loud "Thunk!" A break was in order! Vaan stood up and headed out of the library deciding to see what Larsa and Penelo were up to. When he neared the doors to Larsa's favorite work area, one door was slightly open, and he could hear Penelo speaking.

"First you bow, and then with a slight turn you stretch your arms out like this." She instructed. Vaan peeked in and saw her doing a step-by-step of one of her dances. Sitting at his desk was Larsa who applauded.

"A wonderful performance, Penelo." He complimented.

"Why thank you, Lord Larsa." She giggled while bowing. "I really do like dancing, even if it's a style I'm not familiar with like at the fete."

"Even then you did not falter." The Emperor spoke which caused her to smile more.

Vaan felt it was alright to interrupt and knocked on the door, when Larsa replied he stepped in and his friends' expressions lit up.

"Hey Vaan," Penelo waved. "How did 'study session' go?"

He made a face when she mentioned study session but then he shrugged coolly. "Its alright I guess. I was reading about Landis, somewhere in the East or something."

"To the North." Penelo and Larsa said at the same time, causing Vaan to blink.

"Okay, whatever." He clasped his hands behind his head. "Anyway what were you two doing?"

"I was showing Larsa one of my dances." Penelo smiled. Vaan smirked and looked over to Larsa.

"Yeah? What did you think, Larsa?"

"She was very graceful." He replied.

Vaan chuckled, "Really? I always thought she was too bow-legged to dance."

"Vaan!!" Penelo shouted. All he could do in response was flinch as she came on him and punched him hard in the arm before storming out of the room.

Frowning, and rubbing the spot where she hit him, Vaan looked helplessly at her retreating form. "I was just kidding, Penelo!" The young man couldn't help but notice Larsa shaking his head in dismay and Vaan got the hint and sighed. "I'll go talk to her."

"Wise choice, Vaan." Larsa mused. Now alone, the little Emperor decided to focus his attention on his work again. He noticed one of the letters brought to him a couple of hours earlier and it had the Margrace seal on it. Filled with curiosity he opened it quickly and found it was a letter from Al-Cid and his eyes widened over the news he read. "Oh my…"

:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:

Penelo sat on one of the many steps of the House Solidor, pouting and sighing. She didn't even notice the sound of armor clanking from behind as Basch descended the steps and found her sitting at the bottom step.

"Penelo?" his voice startled her. "Is everything alright?"

"I'm fine, Basch!" she rubbed her eyes before turning to face him with a smile.

He was not convinced. "Usually when one sits on a step looking the way you do they are troubled."

"It's not a big deal." She sighed again.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, thank you Basch." She watched as he began down the stairs again, once he passed her she spoke up again. "Have you ever said anything to a girl and then regret it later?"

He paused, caught off guard, but also thinking over her question. "I try to never say anything to someone unless I truly mean it. However, I was not always as careful."

"Really?" the girl looked shocked.

Basch smiled. "I was young once too, besides we have all made choices that we later regret for not seeing their effect on others."

"Have you made any now that you're older?" she asked tentatively.

"Aye, but I try not to think too long on past regrets—better to keep one's eyes forward on what is coming ahead."

"What do you look forward to Basch?"

"Days like this when I can share these times of peace with comrades and those I care about."

Penelo smiled and nodded. "Yeah, I'm really happy being here, but then I wonder what the others are doing, especially Ashe." She pursed her lips together. "Larsa hasn't said anything on the subject so maybe things are ok."

"Yes I'm sure she has everything under control, at least that which she can control."

They were interrupted by the sound of foot steps and Vaan came running down the hall breathless. 'There you are Penelo."

Basch nodded to Penelo, noticing how she avoided making eye contact with Vaan. "I will leave you two to talk, if you have need of me I will be with Lord Larsa."

Basch left, leaving the two young teenagers alone. When Vaan felt it was safe to talk, he quietly sat beside Penelo on the step "So..." he began. "Still mad at me?"

"Yes." She replied flatly.

Vaan just sighed. "I'm sorry Penelo, I was just joking I didn't mean anything by it."

"I guess it just hurt since that made me think it was the reason you didn't want to dance with me that night." She said, and Vaan shook his head quickly.

"No way! I know you're a good dancer, I didn't want to dance because I can't dance."

"I could always teach you."

He paused and tapped his chin, "I guess that couldn't hurt—that way you won't be angry with me," he laughed a bit. "Hah least you didn't thunder me this time."

"Oh thanks for reminding me, Vaan." Penelo smiled wickedly.

"You know, I don't remember you being this sensitive." He said, eying her warily and scooting back an inch or so.

"And I don't remember you being this insensitive" her response was defensive.

"Well I'm not trying to be." Vaan said.

"Maybe you're becoming too much like a sky pirate. Sometimes it seems like all you care about is what you'll get to do or if you get paid for it."

"That's not all I care about."

Penelo looked at him, and then shyly she asked, "Then what do you care about?"

"Well," he scratched his head as if embarrassed. "I care about you."

"Really?" the girls eyes lit up like sparkling jewels and her heart beat in her chest like a bird.

Oblivious to Penelo's reaction, Vaan continued. "Of course, you are my best friend after all."

The fluttering in Penelo's chest vanished as she felt her heart plummet to the pit of her stomach.

:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:

Basch stepped into the room where Larsa was, and gave a small bow. Larsa nodded his head in acknowledgement. The young Emperor was focused on the letter in his hand; his eyebrows knitted together in concentration. "Hello Basch."

The Knight noticed the letter and asked politely. "What news from our allies?

"Troublesome it seems—Lady Ashe assures us that her problem is resolved but Al-Cid's letter states there are some men over stepping their boundaries. She may have visitors by the week's end." Basch frowned slightly and Larsa stood up from his chair. "Call in Vaan and Penelo, it seems our plan will now go into motion."

"Understood, my Lord." Basch bowed again and left the room. His movements started to become a bit slower as left as if there was a wave of trepidation taking hold of him.

:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:

Vaan and Penelo stood in the halls with one of Vaan's arms around her waist and the other interlocked with her's. Slowly she was teaching him how to dance; though Vaan often stumbled Penelo had remarkable patience.

"Like this?" Vaan asked for the third time, only to move and accidentally step on her foot.

"Ow! Careful," She winced. "And you did it wrong. It's left, left, then right. Let's start again, one two three, one two three."

For a time Vaan moved fluidly to Penelo's beat though he nervously kept his eyes on their footing, afraid he would step on her again. After a while he grinned. "Hey I think I'm getting it aren't you glad you didn't have to do this in public?"

"I could ask you the same thing, but now you'll have no excuse the next time I ask." They came to a stop and she stared at him.

"If I have to dance somewhere I'm glad I'll have you to be my partner." Vaan returned her gaze, smiling sincerely and feeling a little red in the face once he noticed how close he held her. He didn't think about moving and she hadn't pulled away. Maybe she was going to show him another dance. He would wait till she decided.

Unfortunately someone else decided for them. "Ahem."

"Hello Basch," Penelo smiled, apparently in a daze thanks to her closeness to Vaan. As soon as she said that, her face turned red with embarrassment and without thinking she shoved Vaan away from her. "Basch!!"

Vaan fell on his backside, hitting the polished floors. His face was as red as Penelo's and he spoke as he stood back up. "Oh, Basch! Uh, hi…"

"I was not interrupting anything was I?" Basch asked with a raised eyebrow.

Still blushing, Penelo replied, "I was just teaching him how to dance."

Vaan nodded his head vigorously and the Knight refrained from smiling lest he embarrass them more. He continued, changing the topic much to their relief. "Lord Larsa has called for you. It seems the plan will go into motion soon."

"Really?" Penelo's eyes widened and she smiled. "Let's go then!"

"Right." Vaan also grinned, and the two youths followed Basch down the hall. "And don't look so serious, Basch. You need to be convincing for this role."

"A change of wardrobe wouldn't hurt either," Penelo mused. "We don't want you to look like an executioner."

Basch sighed. Was this the thanks he received for ignoring their awkward situation?

Raminas' second wife, Amalia Ondore Dalmasca had borne him his first and only daughter Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca. His eight sons from his first wife had all passed on, due to birth complications or assassination, and his wife, shortly after the death of their last son finally gave up on living and the grieving king lost all his joy. However, over time he fell in love again and this woman, Amalia has rekindled that happiness with her loving presence and the precious gift that was their daughter. That was not to say there was no danger. Being his only living child, and future to the Dalmascan line, enemies of Raminas tried to exploit his love for his daughter to their advantage.

It was on one fateful night when a man disguised as one of the Knights of the Order snuck onto the palace grounds, and when the time was right, he abducted the young princess. Whatever plan he had in using the six year old child against Raminas was foiled when a real Knight of the Order caught him. He managed to wrest the princess from her abductor and after a fierce struggle, the man was killed. Hiding in the corner, shivering, Ashe could hear the grunts of the scuffle, sounds of steel grinding and clashing, and then there was a gurgling sigh and someone falling and then it was quiet. The footsteps that approached her hiding place where the Knight put her grew louder, and she was about to scream till she found out it was her rescuer.

A group of men came running down the hall led by the King, and following them was her mother. Amalia ran past them to her daughter, taking her in her arms and thanking the Knight profusely. Raminas talked with the other knights before approaching to give his thanks to this brave man.

"You have my eternal gratitude, Basch," he said, clasping arms with the Knight. He looked to his wife and child with a fond and sad expression. "I dare not think what might have happened."

He humbly bowed his head. "She is safe, that is what matters."

Both men continued to talk, with Amalia speaking once in a while as Ashe watched them all quietly, her shivering slowly vanishing and her thoughts of the bad man being replaced by the Knight who saved her. The little princess watched him most of all. He was young, perhaps in his twenties, with blonde hair and a light beard starting to grow. Ashe didn't remember him, but she didn't know most of the Knights her father had under his command as she spent most of her time with her mother. But for some reason, she wanted to remember this man. He saved her life, and he was everything a knight should be—he had a kind face, and his armor gleamed, it was just like in the stories Eurek told her. This Knight bowed again, ready to leave with the small detachment of men but then the little princess called to him and he stopped.

"Sir Basch," she spoke with formal tones taught by Eurek. "Thou art my Champion."

He stared for a moment, but smiled and bowed respectfully to her. "Till the death, my Lady."

:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:

Ashe sighed. It was noon in Rabanastre and instead of being out in her gardens enjoying the fresh air; she was in the council fanning herself tiredly. Sitting at the large table with her were three council members, Eurek and the two brothers, Tole and Toth. They did their best to ignore the discomfort of the warm weather while diligently going over papers and discussing matters of business. It was a job that must be done, but for the past two days, ever since she received word from Larsa that they would be arriving she had a sense of girlish anticipation. The Emperor's visit was to discuss the matter of the Aonad Law, but she knew Vaan and Penelo would come along and most importantly—Basch.

She continued to fan herself, allowing herself to daydream while half-listening to the others.

"The revenues for this month have been recorded, Majesty" Toth reported, handing his brother a stack of papers to organize.

"Highness." Tole replied to his brother absently.

"Mhm," She nodded. Ashe's thoughts focused on the Phon Coast and the cool waters.

Eurek was sifting through the letters stopping to read one before using it to fan himself. "It appears the turmoil in Balfonheim hath been suppressed. Word from our Rozarrian friends state someone hath taken control."

"Not that I care about what pirates do, but it's about time." Tole snorted. "Shipping goods should go smoothly now that they stopped fighting with each other."

"Very good," Ashe nodded again, keeping up the pretense that she was paying attention. With her mind on Phon Coast she found it wandering to other things, namely Basch and entertained the idea of what he would look like soaking wet.

There was a knock at the large doors that made the Queen jerk in surprise. The others stared at her and she blushed slightly almost feeling that her thoughts were exposed. Instead she calmly smoothed out her dress and gave permission to whoever was knocking to come in. Leyna stepped in followed by Balthier and Fran

"My Lady," she spoke after giving a quick bow. "Emperor Larsa has arrived."

The Queen nodded. "Wonderful, let us quit this place and go meet him."

"Yes, raise the banner, sound the horn and all that." Balthier said.

"A simple touch up in apparel will do." Ashe spoke before leaving with the others following. Balthier was left alone in the council room and noticed the small stain of blood on his cuffs from their last mark.

"I didn't even realize I soiled my cuffs." The pirate adjusted them slightly and went after the others.

:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:x:o:

Ashe and her companions waited in the throne room when two guards opened the doors and in stepped Larsa followed by Penelo. The girl's expression lit up and she smiled at Ashe and Fran. The Viera nodded, and Ashe returned the smile but then her expression dimmed when she noticed Vaan and Basch were not present. Larsa and Penelo did not seem bothered by this either. Larsa walked down the carpeted aisle and bowed respectfully to the Queen of Dalmasca.

"Lady Ashe, I pray you are well." He smiled.

"Very well, Larsa. It is good to see you again," she said. "Where are the others?"

"We will discuss that in a moment," Briefly, he and Penelo exchanged a glance. "But now I come with pressing news."

"It must be pressing indeed to warrant a visit by the Emperor of Archadia himself." Balthier said. He and Fran stood to the right of Ashe's throne while her council members stood on the other side.

"I only want to help since this does concern you and the Aonad law."

"If it is that you are worried about then do not worry, Baltheir and Fran have been doing everything to stay these unwanted suitors." The Queen assured.

"That is what I came to tell you—Al-Cid has written to me that some of them are growing impatient, they will not wait for you to reply, they are coming."

"Well there goes all of our hard work." The pirate said in a disappointed tone. Fran knew it had to do with the fact he would no longer be able to accept their gifts in Ashe's name.

"It is alright since we can put the plan I mentioned to you in motion." Larsa replied.

Penelo smiled wryly, "Actually it was Basch's idea."

Ashe blinked. "Basch?"

"Penelo helped of course," the little Emperor added. "I hope you do not mind Ashe, but we came up with a 'false' Archadian suitor to frighten off the others."

"Have you now?" Balthier raised an eyebrow and smirked. He heard Ashe sputter in shock and the council members on the other side murmured to one another.

Fran kept her eye on Penelo, she couldn't help but notice the girl's smile growing and growing. "It is an interesting solution; keep away others by making them believe you are already taken."

Ashe fought to keep composure and regal appearance. "It may work, but who would take on this charade?" She decided to ignore the smirk Balthier was throwing at her; she knew he was aware that it was an ignorant question to ask.

In response, Larsa nodded to Penelo and the girl ran back to the large doors. She pushed one open and poked her head out. "Vaan, they're ready!" she called.

Penelo moved back and Vaan stepped in, wearing his clean white shirt. For a brief moment the others looked confused, and Ashe's expression was one of absolute dread once the young pirate came in. Vaan cleared his throat and put on his best airs. "Ahem! Presenting Judge Magistrate Basch fon Ronsenburg of the Archadian Empire!"

A hush fell over the room and the door behind Vaan opened wider along with Ashe's eyes as she saw who stepped in. Basch was wearing his old armor when he was in the Order, scrubbed till it was positively gleaming. Despite his hair being cropped short it was as if Ashe was catching a glimpse of her childhood. Suddenly Eurek burst out in to laughter, clapping his hands as he did so but then stopped abruptly when the others stared. He placed one hand to his mouth and waved with the other apologetically while fighting to stifle his enthusiasm which earned him a low snarl from Tole.

"Well this is an unexpected twist." Balthier mused as he crossed his arms. His smirk never left and it grew wider when Basch approached. The Knight's face was absolutely red.

Basch stood by Larsa and bowed to Ashe, clearing his throat nervously. "You're Highness."

She inclined her head to him in acknowledgement, "Basch." She struggled to gather every ounce of her being to say his name with extreme calmness.

"Isn't it a great idea?" Penelo beamed.

"I mean you no inconvenience my Lady, consider this my return as your protector." Basch said apologetically.

"Its n-no inconvenience, I am grateful you and the others want to help me with this," Ashe replied, her voice slightly quavering. She took a deep breath and calmed herself once again. "When will the others arrive?"

"Within the week my Lady," Larsa replied and Ashe nodded. The boy glanced over to Basch once more. "The rest of us should head back now."

"You three are leaving? So soon?"

He smiled sadly, "I do have an empire to run, but please keep in contact with me Lady Ashe. Vaan and Penelo will also be checking in from time to time."

"Yeah, so be sure to take care of Basch for us!" Vaan waved, following Larsa out after he bowed to the others again. Penelo trailed behind and to her surprise Balthier and Fran followed her to the large doors. She turned around and grinned impishly.

"You clever, clever girl," Fran complimented.

"We will keep progress on this little trap of yours," Balthier winked at her. Penelo giggled, said goodbye and rushed off to catch up with Larsa and Vaan.

Balthier turned around and walked beside Basch, nodding. "Well, you do look the part."

"They insisted." He stated.

"Oh I imagine so, the armor of a Judge would not do to impress a queen," the Pirate circled around him once. "That look seems to have done the trick."

Basch looked over to Ashe and she went rigid and her cheeks flushed pink. He had tried to avoid in making direct eye contact with her to hide his own nervousness, yet some reason he felt a little relieved when he noticed she was just as uneasy. The Queen coughed lightly. "You look very nice, Basch."

Eurek, and the two Revs had also approached Basch, greeting him and giving their approval. The elderly man was still as giddy as a school boy and he chuckled gleefully. "I cannot wait to see the faces of thine opponents upon their arrival."

"If they're anything like the ones we've already met with they will take one look at our Archadian representative here and back down." Balthier said. "No doubt they will try to weasel past him to get closer to Her Highness."

"You best play your part well 'suitor' and keep an eye on our queen." Fran eyed the Knight, which caused his face to turn a deeper shade of red.

Ashe also blushed and resisted the urge to sink down on her throne. "Things will be fine, Fran."

Evening was approaching Rabanastre, with the last bit of the sun's rays streaming through the buildings of the city before the sky changed into its inky colors. The palace grounds were aglow with the sunstones hanging throughout the halls. Balthier strode down one of the lighted corridors searching for his Viera companion and with a parchment in hand. He found her in one of the smaller areas that overlooked a garden. Fran was sitting at a table sipping a drink and wearing a white velvety dress. The change of apparel made Balthier blink in surprise as he joined her, sitting across from her at the table.

"I haven't seen you with that look in a long while." He spoke while placing the parchment aside and helping himself to a drink.

"We do not need to head out anytime soon, I figured it was time to indulge myself," she looked at him. "Do you like it?"

"I would say black is more your color but that outfit is hardly objectionable on you." The Pirate flashed her a grin before taking a drink.

"And what are you up to?"

"Ohh, I'm just going over a little paperwork for Her Highness," Balthier held up the parchment for her and smiled when he unrolled it and one end tumbled over the edge of the table. "A list of 'opponents' as Eurek delightfully put it."

Fran took it from him and looked it over carefully, "That is quite the list."

"Just about every single male of nobility or notoriety in Ivalice."

"This should be most interesting if not entertaining."

"Agreed," he took another drink. "By the way, there was one name that caught my attention."

Fran's eyes skimmed through the list and blinked. "Xander Rador…Pirate Lord of Balfonheim?"

He nodded "Looks like he took control of that warring lot or at least enough to boast about it."

"Do you know him?" the Viera asked.

"Know of him," Balthier shrugged and poured another drink. "If he has taken control of Balfonheim I would hate to know by which means he accomplished the task. He's a shrewd business man, the likes I tend to avoid. The sort of pirate who believes the end justifies the means. He seems to be fairly knowledgeable in building and repairing airships. I heard his prized one—the Black Shark, was modified from an Archadian model."

"Since he is on the list do you believe he may come to speak with Ashe?"

"Eurek wanted us to be prepared, but whatever the case he will be someone to keep a watchful eye on."

"And what of our Archadian suitor?" Fran asked before taking a sip from her glass. "I've never sensed our queen this flustered."

Balthier leaned back in his chair. "If one didn't know better you would think she had feelings for the man."

"She fights too hard to keep up appearances."

"That's politics for you—who and what you are is not nearly as important as what you make people believe you are." He noticed Fran's disconcerting expression and he sighed, "If it is any consolation I do not understand it myself."

"She refrains for the sake of her people, he for the sake of her," Fran observed. "Tis a vicious cycle these traditions spawn."

"Now you see why I left such mess behind."

"You have enough trouble as it is being a pirate."

"At least I can freely choose which bed I sleep in," Balthier eyed Fran suggestively.

Fran eyed him coolly, "True, but it is because you are a glutton for punishment."

"We all have our flaws."

Balthier paused when he saw Fran look down one of the hallways, one ear slightly twitching. After a few moments he also heard the sound of footsteps followed by the soft clattering of armor. He grinned realizing who it was and stood up to meet the Knight in the hallway. Curious, and some what concerned by the look on Balthier's face, Fran followed. Basch walked past Balthier who hid behind one of the pillars, and then the pirate stepped out.

"Enjoying an evening stroll, Sir Knight?" he called out. Basch looked back to see them both.

"I am merely reacquainting myself with the grounds."

"Ahh of course, and here I thought you were going to pay the queen a late visit." he bantered, breathing on his nails before buffing them on his vest. "Tell me Basch, how long did it take for you to give in to Penelo's insistencies?"

"I had little choice to object."

"And how hard did you fight?"

Basch's eyes narrowed, "What are you suggesting Balthier?"

"Nothing, we just wish to find out if this is indeed a fake suitor here or a devious plan you have conceived to get a bride and a crown." The smirk he gave him was wicked and defiant and the other man bristled.

"You are fortunate that we are friends," he said in a stern and threatening tone. "Or I would strike you down."

Balthier held his hands up, feigning mock surprise. "No need for such hostility."

"Pay no mind to him Basch," Fran intervened. "We are merely curious on what part Penelo had in this."

Basch nodded politely to her, "Sending an imposter to waylay the other suitors was my suggestion, Penelo was the one who volunteered me for the task."

"I thought as much," she replied.

"Well then we should have no problems leaving you alone with the queen this evening, just remember you are only a fake suitor." Balthier walked away but stopped momentarily to look back, "and Basch, the new outfit, quite sharp."

Fran nodded to Basch politely and apologetically before catching up to her companion. "Was that truly necessary?"

"Not at all, but it was entertaining."

Fran gave him a look of disapproval, "You are quite devious."

"I have my moments." He answered smugly.

There was a light rap on the door that led to Ashe's personal study. The young Queen was at her desk looking over papers and letters. Absently she replied, "Come in."

Quietly Basch stepped in and when Ashe looked up he made a quick bow, "My Lady, I hope I am not disturbing you."

"Oh no Basch, it is fine," she glanced out one of the windows realizing it was night. "I suppose I am due for a break." Ashe looked back at him curiously, "What did you need?"

He shook his head, "It has always been my duty to check on you, old habits die hard as I once mentioned." The Queen smiled, and Basch continued. "Majesty, please know that I will do my best to help alleviate the situation you are in. I shall keep the unwanted from you and I will do nothing to dishonor you in my subterfuge."

Ashe watched him with a warm gaze and bowed her head, "Thank you Basch, it was unexpected what Larsa proposed...but I would have no other to assist me."

Humbly, the Knight bowed his head, "As always, it is my honor and pleasure to serve you my Lady." When he looked up he noticed the look she was giving him and he grew nervous. "Ahem, how goes the restoration of Dalmasca?"

"Smoothly, my only problem has been this law." She replied, fingering the edges of the papers she was reading.

"All things considered that is a rather good sign."

"You have a point. You be honest with you, Penelo's enthusiasm has caught on as I am quite eager to see the look on these suitors' faces and how we play out this facade of Larsa's." her fingers interlocked together and the Queen smiled.

Basch couldn't help but stare; it had been a long time since he saw her smile like that. "Then I will be sure to not fail in my performance."

"I look forward to it."

She was giving him that look again, and once again Basch tried to ignore it. "How have you found yourself since you became queen?"

Ashe glanced elsewhere which made Basch feel relieved. "Happy to be sure, but still lonely though I am glad Balthier and Fran have taken up my offer."

"Aye they seem to have chosen a more reputable road now. I am glad they are here for you. I—," he paused,"—we were worried about you."

"I thank you for your concern," Ashe noticed when he faltered and studied him for a moment but Basch was unmoving. "What of you? Surely things have become quite interesting since Vaan and Penelo have joined under Larsa."

Basch had a small smile, "Yes things have become—" he seemed to pause for the word, "less quiet with them around. I believe it is good for Lord Larsa—I imagine the boy has grown up without many outlets for enjoyment. Having friends like Vaan and Penelo around should allow him to live a true life despite the weight he carries on his shoulders."

"I could never imagine running a kingdom at such an age." Ashe mused sadly.

"Ruling at any age is a heavy burden, especially if one is alone," was the Knight's quick response.

"Indeed. Perhaps that is why this law had been made ages past."

"Perhaps," Basch said quietly. "And perhaps that is the good that will come from it, if you are able to find a suitor who is truly worthy..."

"I fear he may believe he is not..." The Queen said almost in a whisper as she stared at the letters.

"Pardon?"

Ashe didn't realize she had said that out loud. To hide her embarrassment she quickly faked a big yawn and shuffled the papers on her desk loudly, stacking them to one side. She spoke casually as if nothing happened, "The hour grows late; I should be off."

"Of course," was all Basch could say. He dare not press the subject further. Politely he continued, "Shall I escort you to your chambers?"

The Queen nodded, "Thank you, Basch."

They left her personal study and walked quietly down the halls side by side. Along the way Ashe had slipped her hands around one of Basch's arms and though he tensed he said nothing and they continued in silence. It felt strange to be here again when he thought he would never see the palace. It had barely been three years but for some reason it felt like ages for the Knight. Back then he escorted Princess Ashelia, a young girl filled with dreams and hope. Now he walked beside Queen Ashelia, a woman grown and slightly hardened by the realities of life, but still beautiful—she would always be beautiful.

He stopped himself. This was improper, yet here he was pretending to be a suitor for Her Majesty, but it was for show, and no one was around. Basch wanted to do his best to keep things formal and professional during this trip, and he hoped Ashe would not get too comfortable…yet a part of him welcomed the idea.

His thoughts halted when Ashe slipped away from him and opened her door. "Basch," she said quietly.

"Yes, my Lady?"

The gaze which made him nervous returned again. Ashe's eyes were filled with warmth and an emotion he could not name, and dare not hope for one such as himself, "I'm happy you came back."

"I'm glad it makes you happy," he bowed, if only to tear his eyes away from hers.

"Goodnight Basch."

"Goodnight Your Majesty," he said before leaving.

Ashe watched him silently before closing the door to her room. She leaned against the door, the wood feeling cool against her flushed skin. Ashe fought so hard to remain calm, but now that he was gone and in the privacy of her own quarters she breathed out a sigh of relief.

And suddenly she giggled.

The Queen of Dalmasca giggled and like a young girl she spun around before flopping onto her bed, sighing dreamily this time. She rolled over to lie on her back and gazed up at her canopied bed. The Queen let out another girlish fit of glee and smiled so wide her face could have split in two.

She had her Champion again.