Author's Notes: In case people are new to this tale... my other story Words Unspoken contains the events that take place prior to this story. Though I do my best to flashback enough that Save the Queen can stand on its own...if you find yourself saying "Huh!?", maybe you can find your answers there. :)
Many thanks to my girls over at the Basch/Ashe forum. They give me so many constructive ideas... it is great to bounce ideas off others and...most of all... it is their support that makes me keep on writing!
Thank you! :D
.• SAVE THE QUEEN •.
Chapter 4
Beautiful Lies
Truth is beautiful, without a doubt; but so are lies.
- Emerson
Unknown to them, Corliss had quietly gone back the way she had come, leaving them undisturbed in the judge's room. Still stunned by what he had read, Basch was once again scanning the contents of the document in his hands. Ashe sat beside him, watching the expression of disbelief that continued to pull at his golden brow. Ian had grown bored of the adults beside him once their embrace had come to an end, and was now happily jumping upon the bed, disturbing the way that Basch had made it up with meticulous military precision.
"Does this news really surprise you so?"
He blinked and looked at her, raising his eyebrows. "Aye...does it not surprise you?"
"I know my father held you in the highest esteem Basch." She smiled gently and leaned in to remind him, "Why do you think only you were entrusted with the safekeeping of the the Dusk Shard? He bade only you keep it safe."
He looked back down at the parchment.
"You are a great leader ...fon Ronsenburg," she smiled as this got his attention. "A leader is what you are meant to be."
He opened his mouth to say something when the heavy door to his quarters suddenly burst all the way open.
Penelo fell awkwardly inside the room, skidding onto her hands and knees with Vaan stumbling in behind her, flailing his arms for balance. The two had obviously been eavesdropping outside the door, and had applied too much pressure as they strained to listen. Vaan's foot caught on Penelo's ankle and he too, pitched forward, falling with his chest over her head pushing her nose into the polished stone floor.
"Owwww! Get off my face!"
...
Vaan scrambled off Penelo and glanced up sheepishly at the two disapproving faces watching him from the side of the bed.
"Oh, hey Ashe... uh.. we came to see if Basch was awake." He stood, helping his friend to her feet, then ran his hands nervously into the back of his hair.
"And when you discovered that indeed he was, the two of you decided to listen outside his door." Ashe's tone was flat.
"Ummmm," Vaan looked to Penelo for help with the situation.
"We heard you talking about Basch and the king...and we...," She shrugged and looked at Ashe, then at Basch. "Sorry."
Ian had found the two teen's unorthodox entrance very interesting, and now he stood at the foot of the bed watching them with two fingers shoved in his mouth.
"Hey, who's this little bugger? Vaan was the first to notice, "He's cute."
Ashe smiled over at the boy, "that's Ian."
"Ohhhh!" Penelo made the "what an adorable baby" sound and crept over to start a game of peek-a-boo, much to the child's delight.
Just then, the shadow of a man fell through the threshold of Basch's doorway.
"Ashelia, there you are, I have been looking for you." Ondore greeted everyone warmly, in turn with polite nods of his head.
"I apologize for the interruption, but your presence is needed in the meeting area."
Knowing there was still much to be done before the fete, she answered quickly, "Of course, Uncle, I will join you shortly."
He gave a final gesture with his head, bowing to show the waves in his dark silver hair, then he moved away down the corridor.
Ashe stood and looked down at Basch, she realized with a pang that she didn't want to leave his side. He politely rose to his feet along with her, and made a motion to return the scroll.
She placed her hand over his and gave a gentle squeeze, "You keep it." Then in a whisper she added, "and give it thought."
She looked over and saw Penelo and Vaan watching the exchange with rapt attention.
"Please make yourselves at home here, hopefully I will be not be tied up for too long." She spoke out loud again to all the friends around her.
"Can we ride chocobos?" Penelo asked eagerly.
"Of course." Ashe said, smiling as she passed through the doorway.
She made her way down the hallway, and was envious when from behind her she heard Basch chuckle and say, "I believe the two of you are in need of a watchful eye."
"Oh good you're coming too!? Let's go get Larsa!" Penelo sounded thrilled.
Basch had donned his full suit of judge magister's armor; inside of which he safely tucked the king's decree. He scrawled a quick note, letting Corliss know they had taken Ian with them to the chocobo stables.
The group arrived outside the door to the chambers of the Emperor of Archadia which remained firmly closed. Penelo leaned her blond head against the door to listen, missing the disapproving look that the lord's protector sent her from beneath his dark helm.
"A habit is it?" His low voice rumbled close to the back of her head.
She let out a small, surprised squeak and flashed Basch a guilty look, before knocking softly upon Larsa's door. They all patiently waited for a response. Basch shifted under the weight of his armor, then switched Ian from his right hand to his left. His metal clad hand rapped on the door this time, more firmly than she had done.
"My Lord?" He raised his voice to be heard through the thick wood.
From inside the room, they all heard a pitiful, wavering moan.
Penelo brought her hands over her mouth in a gesture of empathy.
"He doesn't sound so good." Vaan looked over at Basch.
From inside the door came another weak moan then, "Sleeeeep...let...me."
Basch cleared his throat, "Right, it appears Lord Larsa is in need of more rest...with all the duties that befall an emperor, he has become over-weary."
His bulking figure turned and started back down the corridor, the way they had come.
Penelo began walking after him, but started as she felt Vaan's soft white-blond hair suddenly tickle against her temple. She paused and moved her head slightly in his direction and saw that he had moved his face down to within a hairsbreadth of hers. She felt a warm breath on her skin as his lips brushed against the top of her ear.
He whispered to her, "More like with all the wine he drank last night."
Penelo turned to face him, and because he was in such close proximity, the tips of their noses touched briefly. Vaan's face had been wearing a small grin, but the moment they made contact it slipped from his face. They stood facing each other, both seeming to be too surprised to move away or speak. He looked down at her mouth and Penelo drew in a breath.
"Coming?"
The voice that broke the silence belonged to Basch.
Penelo looked up to see the judge still moving away down the hallway, it appeared he hadn't turned to look back.
She glanced back at Vaan and noticed he hadn't moved.
"Yes, coming." She turned and quickly made her way after Basch and Ian.
The grand chocobo stables loomed into view as they rounded the bend on the footpath. Basch had been unprepared for the deep and churning mix of feelings that had plagued him since his arrival on Dalmascan soil. It was disconcerting to him, the way they were bubbling just beneath the surface. He chided himself. His emotions were not something he was willing to lose control of, yet here in Dalmasca, he felt such desire. Desire for the things he could not have.
He felt a deep wanting, for the honor he had lost, the familiar home he had made his own...the woman, the young, beautiful queen. She refused to leave his thoughts... it was almost a form of torture.
"Oh it's so beautiful!" Penelo went tearing ahead of them, running toward the arched entryway to the stables.
As always when Raminas had still been alive, Dalmascan flags billowed in the breeze atop the turrets surrounding the grand structure. He smiled to himself, deeply pleased to see that Ashe had continued to take great pride in the king's exquisitely bred chocobos.
...
Vaan watched, enthralled, as Basch went about expertly saddling three mounts. He had very clearly gone through the motions of quickly readying a chocobo to be ridden many times. There was no doubt in Vaan's mind that the captain could saddle a chocobo blind, faster than a normal person. He noticed though, how Basch had a habit of re-checking the fittings often, a bit over-cautiously.
Once they were out and riding, however, it was a total thrill. Basch cradled Ian protectively in front of him in his saddle while the boy squealed and laughed delightedly. He and Penelo had only ridden a handful of times during the trek across Ivalice a year ago. This was both of their first time riding just for fun; he looked over to his friend feeling a grin permanently stuck to his face.
"Whoa."
The quiet word fell unnoticed from his lips. Even he didn't realize he had uttered it.
She looked amazing.
She had a few decorative braids in her long blond hair, but mostly it was unrestrained. Now it was blowing back off her shoulders as the Estersands whipped by behind her. She was laughing and clutching a bit awkwardly to the bird, but Vaan didn't think he had ever seen her look so beautiful. He didn't think he had ever seen any girl look so beautiful. She caught him looking and gave him a happy shout, then she kicked at her bird, urging it to go faster. As she and her choco pulled away she turned back and blew him a kiss.
As they neared the South Bank Village, Basch stopped his chocobo under the shade of a nearby tree. He slipped off the bird, then handed a rather warm and fussy Ian to Penelo.
"The boy grows tired and hungry, let us see if we can get something for him in the village."
Quickly he rid himself of the constraints of his dark armor, packing it away into the storage pouches of his mount's saddle. A fully clad Judge Magister of Archadia entering a small Dalmascan village was quite likely to send the occupants into a panic. He stood and relished the cool breeze for a moment as it blew over him, drying the sweat from his brow. The boy began fussing loudly and he glanced over to see him rocking back against Penelo, squirming to be free from her grasp. The toddler had his arms held out toward Basch and his face was beginning to turn an alarming shade of red.
"Baaa...Baaawwwssssss!"
"He really wants you." Penelo looked totally at a loss and held the boy back toward the judge.
"I thought you were good with little kids Pen, you sure took care of enough of them in Lowtown," Vaan looked at her confused.
"Well...this guy just likes Basch a lot...obviously."
Basch furrowed his brow and approached Penelo's chocobo. He lifted an arm out to Ian and the little boy nearly jumped onto him, wrapping both arms around the man's neck.
Deciding to walk the rest of the way to the village and lead the choco behind him, Basch added, "Nay...I am just more familiar to the child."
Penelo and Vaan exchanged a look behind his retreating back.
...
Once inside the village, the group had been greeted warmly as most of the locals remembered them from earlier visits. They were treated with all the hospitality the poor village had to offer. A light fresh lunch of the local fruits and vegetables and some steamed fish was offered to them, and now they lounged comfortably on the dock over looking the Nebra River.
Penelo had giggled when the boy Tchigri had asked Basch if he could play with his 'son' in the water along the river's sandy bank. Basch had hesitated, then pointed out a very shallow location well inside his view where he could take him.
Penelo cleared her throat nervously, then asked suddenly, "Basch what was in the letter that Ashe gave you?"
He looked at her, blinking his eyes at the directness and unexpectedness of her question.
Vaan too, was surprised and paused with a dripping piece of cactus fruit outside his open mouth.
"You were unable to gather enough information from the other side of my door?"
Her face flushed pink, then she sheepishly shook her head.
He sighed and looked from her face to Vaan's. They were both watching him expectantly. He shifted his body, then pulled the parchment from his pocket. He glanced at it for one more indecisive moment, then handed the document to Penelo. She looked at it in awe, then slowly removed it from his hand. She quickly unrolled it, and soon both of the teens had their heads pressed together as they read.
"It's not a letter...it's..."
"Oh...Gods...Basch...Commander.."
He didn't know why he did it. Why he was letting them read it. Perhaps, it was because he only had scarcely more friends than he could count on one hand... two of which were sitting beside him.
...
The teens were unusually quiet on the trip back to the palace. Vaan looked to Penelo and saw that she was still shocked by what Basch had shared with them, though he made it clear that they were to keep the information to themselves. Vaan smiled down at the child that shared his chocobo. His mood had improved greatly since lunch, juice and the play-date at the river; he had allowed himself to be propped up onto Vaan's chocobo for a change.
Rabanastre was growing near in the distance, the buildings of the city growing ever larger. When suddenly the most terrible smell wafted over him. It was unlike anything that Vaan had smelled before...dank and rancid. He involuntarily gagged, then screwed up his face and let out a groan.
"What...is that...sme.."
"Poop!" Ian exclaimed happily.
Vaan's eyes widened.
"I pooooooop!"
"Ummm...Basch?" He raised his voice to be heard.
Having again donned is dark Arcadian garb, he twisted his helmed face over his shoulder to look back at them.
"Ian needs you again."
Basch's head shifted toward the small boy that seemed perfectly happy where he was. Vaan moved his chocobo up beside the judge and quickly jerked the boy out toward him. Ian dangled over the sand between the two men for a moment, and just as Basch began reaching for him, his hands froze in mid-air.
"I poop." Ian said it again, but this time he sounded like the idea of what he had done was beginning to make him sad. He pushed his bottom lip out and looked to Basch with large brown eyes.
Ashe once again, found herself temporarily free from her duties. Ondore was doing his very best to create as much leisure time for his niece as possible. She had left him with a quick kiss to his clean shaven cheek, then headed out to see if she could locate any of her guests.
She wandered only briefly before she heard the tell-tale familiar sound of the sky pirate's haughty voice. She allowed it to lure her, past the main parlor, through the library, until she reached the small cozy lounge that lay beyond it. There she found an interesting sight.
Balthier and Larsa were sitting at a small table with cards in their hands and quite an impressive pile of glittering gil on the polished surface between them. She looked to Fran who was reclining on a chase lounge nearby. The viera looked at the queen and gave her a small disapproving shake of her head, causing her smooth white hair to fall forward a bit over her bare brown shoulder.
"Playing cards with a pirate Larsa? I would think you wiser than that."
Larsa looked up at her and grinned, "Oh but Lady Ashe, you underestimate me, for I am winning."
She leaned in close to the emperor and whispered, "That sneak just wants you to think you are winning."
Balthier made an elaborate mockery of looking crushed, "How could you think I would take advantage of our dear boy?"
Just then, from out in the main corridor, the sound of hurried echoing metallic footsteps was accompanied by the unmistakable sound of Penelo's giggles.
She made to catch Basch and the teens, but first turned to send Balthier a stern, direct glare.
To this, he gave her his most handsome impish grin.
She turned and quickly left the room, frustrated that the man always managed to fluster her.
...
Upon entering the foyer, she caught sight of the judge magister being trailed by Penelo and Vaan. Basch had Ian tucked under one arm, in a manner more fitting for a bag of raw onions than for a small child.
"Gabranth."
She noticed all three of them froze, almost as if they had been caught. The two blonds looked back at her, Basch remained fixed as he was staring straight ahead, in the direction of the kitchens. She approached and looked them over quizzically. She looked up at the fearsome looking armor shrouding Basch then down at Ian in his arms. The little boy looked like he had been crying and she was just about to say something when Ian turned his sad, tired eyes to her.
"I Poop."
Basch turned his dark face to hers as well.
She lifted her fingers to her lips to hide a smile, then trying not to laugh said, "We are in the library...when you are finished."
...
Greatly relieved after handing Ian to Corliss in the palace kitchen, Basch, Penelo and Vaan met the others in the library. They relaxed and chatted comfortably for sometime, because the room was fairly private, Basch was able to remove his helm.
As the hour grew later, the palace servants became more and more of a flurry of activity about them. The hour of the coronation was fast approaching and soon guests from the far reaches of Ivalice would be arriving to pay respects to the queen. A young palace servant entered shyly to place an elaborate bouquet of fresh flowers in the lounge. Upon passing Balthier, she did a double-take and stumbled a bit as he flashed her a smile. Turning bright red, she left in a hurry, leaving a very pleased looking pirate behind her.
"Well," Ashe suddenly began to feel very nervous. "I suppose it is time I return to my chambers...and prepare for the event." Suddenly emotion threatened to choke her voice. She waited for it to pass, then continued, "This night, I owe to all of you, I do not have the words to express my thanks."
Silence fell as they all turned to look at at her and Ashe gazed around at all of them in return. She saw the small smile on Basch's face, and thought it was possible that he looked proud. Keeping herself as composed as possible, she stood and cleared her throat.
"Penelo...Fran...would you care to escort me?"
Fran raised her pale eyebrows at the unexpected request, and Penelo nearly knocked her chair over backward in her haste to stand.
"The honor would be mine." Fran's soothing, exotic voice eased Ashe's nerves.
The men watched, somewhat surprised as the three women left the room. Just before they vanished from sight, Penelo turned back and stuck her tongue out at Vaan.
...
Once having arrived in Ashe's royal chambers, Penelo exclaimed loudly and began charging through the interconnected rooms, staring at everything in awe. Fran merely waited patiently for Ashe to give an additional request or dismiss them from her rooms.
It had been sometime since Ashe had spent time alone with a female friend, her heart ached terribly for Budelle. It was times like this that she realized how much she missed opening her heart to a friend. She no longer had a hand-maiden, and other than the special gown her uncle had given her, she had not given much thought to preparing for the fete.
"I was wondering, if perhaps the two of you would care to assist me in preparing for the coronation?"
Fran nodded and Penelo came walking back slowly into Ashe's main bedroom, the look upon the girl's face was no less than shocked.
Ashe smiled at her then opened her huge wardrobe, "Also, please feel free to wear any of the garments I have this evening... if you like."
She turned to face the wardrobe and with her back to them she added, "and Penelo, your hair always looks so lovely...do you suppose you could do something special with mine?"
At that comment Penelo burst into tears.
Ashe and Fran both looked to her with alarm, but quickly saw it was tears of joy she was shedding. As the tears rolled down her cheeks she wore a huge, happy smile.
"I would love to!"
The hour of the Queen's Coronation finally arrived. Being no stranger to fancy and flourish himself, the Marquis Halim Ondore IV had executed an elaborate event. Ashe's coronation would be no ordinary one. The coronation itself was normally a private religious ceremony, but along with this tradition Ondore had insisted that Ashe also have a grand ball in her honor. Musicians had been situated in a corner of the room, and their sweet serenades filled the air. The Great Hall was decorated beautifully. Tables were draped with fine pearly colored linens and adorned with white, exotically scented lilies. Golden glow crystals were strewn over the table tops like glittering gems. Again, Ondore had seen that charmed glow crystals be added to the setting. However, this time the crystals floated around the ceiling of the cavernous hall by the thousands. The lights were kept dim, and the effect was like nothing less than staring into a dream.
Basch stood with his Lord and Balthier and Vaan. The men had all dressed in their finest trousers and silk shirts. Basch envied the freedom they had, as once again he shifted the weight of the dark armor he wore. Many people had already gathered, he was pleased to see the influence that Ashe had over not just the people of Dalmasca, but of all Ivalice. Humes and Moogles, Bangaa, Viera, Seeq and even a few Garif were in attendance. He was fairly certain the horns he saw bobbing in conversation belonged to War-chief Supinelu, but it was hard to say. He noticed the gaze of several men were suddenly pulled into the same direction and he couldn't help but turn to see what had drawn so much attention. The vision that greeted his eyes was so mesmerizing, that he found himself thankful for the mask that hid his face as he quickly closed his mouth.
Penelo and Fran had entered the room. Both women looked so beautiful that people were actually parting the way for them so they could move unhindered, but very well watched through the crowd. Fran wore black. The top of her dress was strapless and fit as a tight corset that laced up the back. The skirt was quite short in front, showing a great expanse of her long, brown legs. The back, however, cascaded out behind her in a long black train. She wore her hair slick, glossy straight and thrown back off her bare shoulders. Penelo was dressed in a soft yellow gown that was of such detailed quality, Basch had no doubt it belonged to the queen. It criss-crossed over her chest in an extremely flattering way, with the soft sheer fabric tying behind her neck. Her shoulders were bare, as was her entire midriff, followed by cascading soft yellow fabric that fell from her hips and swayed about her legs as she walked. Her hair was pulled up away from her forehead and off her neck, though several small curls were left to fall about her lightly made-up face.
Basch heard the sound of trickling water and turned to see that Vaan was watching her approach with nothing short of awe on his face. The grip he held on his glass of sparkling mulled cider had relaxed so much, he was now pouring the contents onto the floor at their feet. Basch looked down at the fluid splashing onto the highly polished black boots of his armor and grunted with displeasure. He reached out and gave Vaan a small shove.
Vaan blinked and looked at him, then gave him a lopsided grin.
"What?"
Basch reached out with the tips of his gloved fingers and righted the angle of Vaan's glass from the bottom.
"Oh...sorry." He quickly set the drink down on the nearest table and turned to greet Penelo.
Unfortunately, someone else beat him to it.
He was opening his mouth to tell her she looked great when Balthier stepped directly in front of him and grasped her hand with both of his. He touched his lips to the back of her hand and gazed at her with a twinkle in his hazel eyes.
"You Penelo, look simply exquisite."
She blushed, making her look only more beautiful.
"May I have the honor of this dance?"
She smiled, openly pleased by the attention, "Of course."
They made off toward the dance floor unaware of the two displeased sets of eyes that watched them leave.
...
Basch watched Fran walk away in the opposite direction, toward the bar, with a decided droop to the tips of her ears. He was about to turn and follow her when an announcement suddenly sounded across the Great Hall.
"All rise for Lady Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca!"
Though few people had been sitting, everyone in the room turned to watch the woman enter the room. Basch could see that she was accompanied by the Marquis, he heard a few gasps and lifted his head for a better view. He was glad for his above average height, as they were situated toward the rear of the room. When he finally caught a clear view of her his heart stalled. Her head was lifted proudly as she nodded and smiled to the guests that parted way for her. She was just passing them toward the altar at the far end of the room. The gown she wore was custom fit to hug her curves like a second skin. Though a skin made of glittering golden beads. The bodice fit every curve of her chest, and would have been strapless, if not for the fine, jeweled strap that ran from between her breasts up to her throat, forming a golden choker there. Where the fitted golden bodice ended just under her ribs extremely sheer white layers of fabric flowed down her legs like a mist. The fabric was so sheer that her legs could be seen through it, but the skirt was made of many layers; the glimpses were few and far between. Her hair was pulled away from her face, Basch thought he had never seen it that way. Across the top of her head, pinned in a band from ear to ear was a thin braid of her hair. Behind this braid her hair fell down her back in soft, shining silver waves.
Basch quickly checked his hand to be sure he was not pouring a drink onto the floor and was relieved to find it empty. Quickly, briefly she turned and looked straight at him, he had no idea how she did it with the sea of faces peering at her.
The music played as she walked the path before her and climbed the steps where the High Priest stood waiting. When the music fell silent all eyes were upon the Queen as she knelt humbly in front of the High Priest. Her white, luminescent gown cascaded down the steps below her.
"Lady Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca, is Your Majesty willing to take the Oath?" The High Priest spoke loudly for all gathered to hear.
"I am willing." Her voice was sure and strong.
"Will you solemnly promise and swear to govern the peoples of The Kingdom of Dalmasca according to the laws set forth by The Great Raminas B'nargin Dalmasca of the Royal House of Dalmasca and The Royal Senate of The Kingdom of Dalmasca as appointed by her peoples?
"I solemnly promise so to do."
"Will you to your power cause law and justice, in mercy, to be executed in all your judgments?"
"I will."
"Will you to the utmost of your power maintain the laws of the God of Light?"
"All this I promise to do."
The high priest then approached Ashe and placed a delicate golden crown over her silvery hair. She had been told by her uncle that the crown had been worn by her mother, and as she felt it rest upon her head, she blinked back the tears that threatened. He bade her stand, then turned her for all the people to gaze upon.
"Peoples, I here present unto you
Queen Ashelia,
your undoubted Queen.
All you who are come this day
may now pay your homage and service."
The same man that had both bound Ashe to Rasler in marriage, and then sent him to his peaceful grave, had now conducted yet another of the most important days in Ashe's life.
The High Priest blessed the newly appointed Queen Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca of the Royal House of Dalmasca with the name of the God of Light, Faram.
...
Basch watched patiently as Ashe made her way exhaustingly through the gathered guests, it almost seemed as if she felt she had to personally thank each and every person that had attended.
As the night wore on he began to realize, time with Ashe was probably not likely to happen this night. He looked over and saw that Penelo was being swung around the dance floor, yet again, by Balthier. He looked to Fran who stared gloomily at her drink as several men stared happily at her.
"Would you like to dance?" He extended his hand in her direction. She looked at it with a raised eyebrow, then let her deep red eyes fall upon him.
"I would." Her sensual voice made Basch wonder why he had waited so long to ask.
The menacing looking Judge Magister dancing with the ravishing viera in black quickly became the interesting center-point of the room. They looked amazing together, though perhaps a bit unorthodox and fearsome.
"... I don't know why he is here..."
" ...a viera? How does she know the Queen?..."
As they swung about the room, Basch caught sight of Balthier noticing Fran, then Penelo noticing Vaan who had found an extremely pretty Rozarrian girl to keep him company on the dance floor. Vaan in turn glared back at Penelo, then Balthier. He in turn noticed Ashe on the dance floor, the white layers of her skirt flowing about the black trousers worn by an overly attentive Al-Cid Margrace.
When the music came to an end, he was not surprised to discover a slightly peeved looking Balthier looking at him.
"If I may." He slipped into Basch's place and whisked Fran away. He looked over toward Ashe but saw that she had already been scooped up by a different man that seemed to be another Rozzarian, perhaps a brother to Al-Cid.
Left with no partner, he returned to his table, wishing he could figure out how to take a drink with his helm on. He decided to grab a pint, then take a short walk outside for some fresh air.
...
Ashe finally tore herself away from the clinging grips of Al-Cid and his brothers and went in search of her friends. It was getting late and she was growing weary. She saw several of them on the dance floor, none being Basch. She scanned the room for Larsa and realized she didn't see him anywhere either.
She made her way outside the great hall toward the foyer and saw the young emperor walking briskly toward her.
"Forgive me Ashe...Your Highness," he emphasized the last part with a smile. "I have received a message about a situation that requires my presence at once, so I shall be returning to Archades this evening."
"Oh...this evening?" She glanced around as subtly as possible, seeking the presence of Basch. "I am sorry to hear you will be leaving so soon."
Ashe tried very hard to conceal the sinking feeling that pulled at her insides. She hadn't had the chance to prepare for the disappointment that came with Basch's departure back to his life in Archadia. With a sense of deep loss, she realized she would not even get to say goodbye to him privately.
"Please let Gabranth know for me." Larsa gave her a quick nod.
For a moment, she did not fully register the meaning of his words. "Gabranth will not be escorting you?"
"Just I am leaving Ashe, I have escorts from Archades that shall be arriving any moment. I apologize for the rudeness of my hasty departure."
"Please Larsa, I of all people understand the duties that come with the running of a country. I am honored that you were able to spend as much time here as you already have."
"I assure you, the pleasure was all mine." Larsa bent and slowly kissed the back of Ashe's hand.
She couldn't help but enjoy the warm gesture. While watching his fine features and dark hair, she realized how handsome a man Larsa was to become, much like his brother Vayne.
As she watched her knights escort the young emperor in the direction of the airship hanger, her heartbeat sped up a notch.
Basch had been left in her care.
...
Ashe returned to the ballroom and saw that guests were slowly beginning to file out of the palace. She looked around again for Basch and was frustrated to only find the Margrace brothers beckoning her over.
"Majesty." The unmistakable low brogue sounded from the doorway just behind her.
She turned and blinked slowly up at the man before her. "The night is drawing to an end, though I think I would like one last dance with a Judge Magister."
"You think it wise?"
"I no longer care."
She put her arm through his and began leading him toward the dance floor. He quickly remedied the situation, and soon after he was leading her.
She felt the many pairs of curious eyes upon them as they began to dance. Soon she felt nothing at all except the warm gaze of his gray eyes that she knew were upon her. She tried to keep a handle on the situation, but soon the feeling of his swaying body and the pressure of his hand upon her back were all that she knew.
As the music came to a end, the queen lifted quickly on her slippered feet and pressed her powdered cheek against the cold iron of his.
"Come to my room tonight."
She left her hand in his, but backed away and gave a polite courtesy to close the dance.
He stood unmoving.
She tugged his hand briefly and he seemed to rouse. Quickly he bowed low before her, bringing her fair hand to his masked face to symbolize a kiss to the back of her hand.
Alone in her room at last, she removed her golden shoes and rubbed her sore feet. She went to her vanity and looked at her reflection, she removed her crown thinking how pleased she was with what Penelo had done with her hair. She had left Penelo at the fete; Balthier, Fran and Vaan too for that matter, they seemed to be having a great time...except for Vaan who looked downright miserable. The musicians and servants would cater to her guests for as long as they chose to stay, as were their orders. She was glad they were having fun.
She had left Basch there as well. Her heart sped up. She was terrified and terribly excited at the same time by what she had done...what she had said. This was probably the last time she would see him, and she couldn't bear going another year without... telling him.
Will he come?
She thought he probably would not. She stood and removed her gown, hanging it carefully in her wardrobe. She slipped a silvery, silken sleeping gown over her bare body and then pulled the doors open to her balcony. The cool breeze felt glorious and she threw her head back letting it sink in. She spent several long moments gazing at the moon and the illuminated city beyond.
Tonight had been such an honor, though she knew it was not merely about her. It was about all of Ivalice, the peace that now existed between Dalmasca, Archadia...Rozzaria. That was why people from so many nations had been present. Now was the new Ivalice, and she couldn't be happier to have a part in it.
There was a soft knock at her door and her heart suddenly lurched all the way into her throat.
"Who is there?"
She heard a low clearing of the throat then, "Majesty."
"Come in," her voice was suddenly so small, she was unsure if he could have heard it.
From the outside balcony, she watched as he entered, then closed her door behind him. The latch clicked into place, verifying their privacy. She leaned her back against the railing and watched him approach.
As he strode closer, he slipped the helm from his head and set it on the small table near the french doors to the balcony. Her eyes fell upon the features of his bare face and her breathing deepened. She reached back and gripped the railing for support.
He stopped close before her, and she was surprised when he allowed his eyes to trail over her scantily clad form.
"You wanted to see me...Highness?"
She opened her mouth to respond...to say anything. As she did this, his eyes fell to her lips. She reached out and touched the golden hair on his chin, then traced it along his jaw until she reached his scarred left ear. From there she trailed her fingers up over his temple, following the line of the scar over his eye. At some point while she did this, Basch closed his eyes.
He didn't see it coming.
Ashe pushed her lips against his in a kiss already heavy with passion. He sucked in a deep breath, and when she threw her arms around his neck and pressed her warm silky body against his cold hard armor, he immediately grabbed her back and pulled her hard against him. There was a level of urgency to his response that she had never felt from him before. She moaned into his mouth and he pushed her backward until her back was pressed against the balustrade.
She threw her head back, and he took the invitation, kissing her throat hungrily.
Part of her couldn't believe what he was doing, and the other part wanted to make damn sure he didn't stop.
She gripped his hair and moved her body against him. As he felt her movement, his hands slipped to her hips and he held her there, then he pushed his thigh between her knees. She gasped, clutching at his back armor for support. His breath was hot against her throat, then suddenly his hands were everywhere slipping over all her silk covered curves.
She moved her lips over his ear and whispered, "take me to the bed."
He paused and stood breathing heavily, holding her close. It dawned on her that he was trembling. She was shocked to discover it, she thought there was nothing that could make this man tremble.
He moved his lips over her smooth cheek, "I want to."
"Then do it," she breathed.
He let his forehead drop to her bare shoulder, there he kissed her and whispered, "Not like this."
She uttered a small sigh of frustration, "Then how?"
"You are a queen...Ashelia."
It was strange to hear him say her name, strange but wonderful.
"I am a man...with naught a name...naught a face."
She grabbed him by the sides of his face and looked into his eyes, "You have a name."
She moved her cheek gently over the roughness of his, "Besides...it is not as if we have not already been together."
She felt his body stiffen and he leaned back to look down at her.
"I was never with Rasler..." She brought her delicate hand to her lips and nervously bit at her finger unable to meet his eyes.
When he didn't respond, she added the rest in a quiet whisper, needing to tell him before she lost the courage, "You are the only man I have ever been with."
...
What did she mean? The only man she had been with...was he the only man she had ever kissed? No...that was impossible, he had seen Vossler's overprotective, romantic grasp on her when they found her on the Dreadnaught Leviathan. He had also seen Ashe kiss Rasler with his own eyes; the man had been her husband, however briefly.
He looked down into her eyes, blinking in confusion.
"Basch... that night before my marriage to Rasler...when I was with you...that was...the only time I have given myself to a man."
"What?" He took a step back and released her.
"I ...I thought you knew..."
He cut her off before she could continue.
"Ashelia, I would ...never...disrespect you in such a way as to...," he was so astounded he could not even finish.
Now it was her turn to look confused.
"What are you talking about?" He could see anger rising in her, "you are going to pretend it never happened?"
"Aye, I am..." He shook his head, exasperated. "Nay...I am not pretending...because it...I... never." He was shaking his head, and looking directly into her eyes; his response was firm, "never."
The idea of taking her at such a young age, had been acutely taboo to him. He took his role as a Dalmascan Knight very seriously, nothing mattered more to him than to protect her in every way possible; that included the safekeeping of her honor. She had painfully tempted him on occasion, but he had very carefully and honorably dealt with each circumstance. He had always been satisfied that he had found the ability to summon self-control in her presence. He was thoroughly confused by what she was now suggesting.
"Basch... why are you saying this..." She backed away from him and protectively brought her arms about herself. "Are you trying to hurt me...again?"
He gaped at her for a moment, stunned. Again? Realizing, she truly seemed to believe in what she was saying, he thought for a long moment.
Carefully he asked, "Ashelia...when did...when do you remember...this... happening?"
...
She began to wonder if his years of imprisonment and torture had somehow stripped the memory from him. That would explain the lack of warmth in his behavior toward her a year ago, the last she had seen him. They had journeyed together across Ivalice with their new-found companions, together saving the kingdom of Dalmasca. Yet Basch had felt unusually inaccessible to her at times. She had believed it was his resentment toward her for believing him to be a traitor; that her betrayal of his trust had fractured the friendship they had once had. Now she wondered if that was not the only reason for his aloofness.
She decided to retell the story for him.
Surely he could not have forgotten. It had been the day after the first battle at the Nabradia border, before her father's great tournament. She described to him the way she had found him standing by the lake in the garden; how she had told him of her newly discovered arranged marriage to Rasler; how he had taken her in his arms, comforted her and told her so many things that she had wanted to hear...needed to hear...how he had made love to her.
As she spoke, Basch closed his eyes and listened carefully. His head dipped low and his breathing started to become long and drawn out. As she reached the end of her description of the nights events, his hand reached out and grasped the railing of the balustrade for support. She looked at his hand in alarm, seeing that his knuckles had turned white under the force of his grip. Was the thought of being with her really so disturbing to him?
"You say he was wearing my Dalmascan uniform."
"He?" His words were not making sense to her.
The way he stood there, breathing heavily, was also beginning to scare her.
"Basch?" Her voice was barely a whisper.
Something was wrong.
Bewildered and afraid, she was about to say his name again, when he whispered something.
It was difficult to speak, as the fear in her belly crawled up into her throat. "What?"
He whispered again, and this time, the word fully registered.
"Noah."
Ashe was completely confused. Why would Basch say his brother's name? Why speak this hurtful name now? The name of the man that had brought so much pain into her life, the name of the man that brutally stabbed her beloved father to death...
The name of the man that looked virtually identical to the man standing before her.
She realized she was shaking her head slowly...already knowing the horrifying truth.
"No..." She backed away from him, fighting mentally with herself, refusing to let the information sink in. She shook her head firmly, "No."
She looked at him and saw that he was completely frozen. His hand that gripped the railing was squeezing with such force his forearm was beginning to shake.
She was utterly stricken by the reality that was dawning on her, and she reached out to place her hand fearfully over his.
"Basch."
His reaction was so sudden and harsh, that she cried out in alarm. He ripped his hand off the balcony, flinging her hand off of his. The anger and aggressiveness in his gesture was so unexpected that she stumbled backward. She reached out to grip the balustrade, catching herself before she fell to the balcony floor. He turned abruptly, his black cape cutting the still warm air. Surging forward, he made his way quickly off the terrace and across her large bedroom, roughly grabbing his helm on the way.
He didn't look back.
...
She jumped in fright as he threw her bedroom door open with such force it was almost torn from the hinges. It crashed against the neighboring wall, sending splinters flying. Still reeling from shock, she ran after him, her bare feet slapping the floor softly. She wanted desperately to see his face. She reached for him, almost catching the edge of his billowing black cape.
"Basch!"
He stormed on. The hand that didn't grip his helmet was balled into a fist at the end of his swinging arm. He rounded a corner at the end of the darkened hallway, continued toward his quarters, and was gone.
"Please." She breathed to no one, her arms dropping helplessly to her sides. Her shoulders fell in defeat. She threw a glance down the corridor behind her and saw a servant standing there, mouth agape. As the eyes of the queen fell upon the maid, the young girl snapped her mouth shut and hurried away, clutching the clean linens that she carried tightly to her chest.
...
He kept his eyes intently focused on only one thing: the approaching door to his guest quarters. Upon reaching it he tore it open, entered, then spun around and slammed it shut. With a mighty growl he threw the helmet. It smashed against the far wall; one side of the intricate black metal crumpled inward before it clanged loudly to the floor. He fell back heavily against the thick wooden door, and slid down until he sat upon the hard stone floor. With his breath hitching inside his chest, he drew his knees up, rested his elbows over them and did something that he had never done before in all the days he had lived.
Basch fon Ronsenburg put his cold metal hands over his face... and wept.
She had pulled the heavy curtains over the large window by her bed, but still morning intruded. The unwelcome light worked its way through the fabric and spread its warm golden fingers over her exhausted face. Her head ached and her eyes were swollen, as Ashe had spent her first night as the sovereign queen of Dalmasca sobbing into her pillow. Each time she believed relief had come, a fresh wave of outrage, grief or shame would take her again. Eventually, her tears had stopped, replaced by a dark hollowness. She had not been fortunate enough to find sleep, and instead had lain on her side staring into nothing for the seemingly never-ending night. Only her terrible thoughts were there to keep her company.
She had never been with Basch. Her most treasured experience had been nothing but a malevolent trick. The man she had given herself to, was instead, Noah fon Ronsenburg... Gabranth... her father's vicious murderer. He had taken her, stolen what was not rightfully his...used her as simply another tool to inflict more damage upon Dalmasca, her father...and Basch.
It made her feel incredibly small. She moaned, desperately trying to push the horror out of her mind again when a soft knock sounded upon her door.
"I am not well, please do not disturb me." The hoarseness of her own voice surprised her.
After a long pause she heard the very tentative and familiar voice on the other side of the door.
"M'lady...I am sorry to trouble you."
Ashe realized it was Corliss. What a servant from the kitchen could need at this early hour in the morning, she couldn't imagine. Part of her was relieved to hear the comforting voice though, perhaps because it made her feel less alone, however briefly.
Ashe slipped out of the bed, then had to stop to steady herself. Her head throbbed like mad, bringing fresh tears to her pale eyes. She made her way slowly to the door and pulled it open.
...
Corliss stood uncomfortably before the door of the queen, shifting the cumbersome object in her hands nervously. When Ashe looked around the edge of the door at her, the woman could not help but inhale sharply at the sight. Ashe's face was pale and her eyes were red and swollen, Corliss was sure that the girl had been crying.
"Yer Majesty," Corliss took a step toward her in concern. "Are you alright?"
Ashe nodded, but when her eyes dropped to what the woman held in her hands, her eyes widened slightly.
The cook looked down at the item in her hands, then back at the queen. "He asked me to have this repaired for him, very early this mornin'... I know he can't be seen without it and all...the blacksmith did a fair job, I think."
She thrust Basch's black Judge Magister's helm toward Ashe, her thoughts racing.
She knew it was not her place to inquire about the queen's personal affairs, but ever since she saw the sadness in the quiet captain's eyes, she knew something was wrong. She couldn't imagine how his helm had become so damaged and she did not dare ask. Now, seeing the state her queen was in, she understood something. What had happened was between the queen and the knight. Corliss felt her heart go out to Ashe, and she realized she knew more than most. The young queen cared deeply for the fallen knight, and he for her. Something had gone terribly wrong, she knew not what...
Ashe took it from her hands and mumbled a quiet thanks.
Corliss excused herself with a bow and made her way back along the corridor. She prayed her instincts were right. She had given the helm to the queen to bring back to Captain Basch instead of returning it herself, as he was expecting. She hoped a face to face meeting would make all well again between them.
Later she would discover she had been mistaken.
The warm Dalmascan sun was rising over the city below, painting each shape a shimmering gold.
He was filled with rage. A feeling unnatural to him, the intensity of it caused him to grind his teeth as his grey eyes stared out the window, seeing none of the beauty before him.
Noah.
He had made amends with his brother in his heart. His deeds had been terrible; the murder of Raminas and Reks had been horrible acts. But somehow, Basch understood that his brother had done what he thought was right at the time in his twisted, bitter mind. His motivations had been politically based; he had acted under the orders of his lord.
But to forgive this act was something he could not do.
This was personal. He had impersonated Basch yet again, but this time he had done it to violate a young girl. He had stolen her innocence...her chastity...but was it rape? As far as Ashe knew, it was himself that she had been with, so...she had apparently welcomed the experience.
She had welcomed the man she believed was him into her arms.
All that he had denied himself for honor, Noah had greedily taken. His brother had experienced that which Basch wistfully desired above all else.
Asheila.
He had kissed her...touched her...entered her...
Basch released a low groan as a wave of pure gut-wrenching jealousy rolled through him.
How had Noah treated her? Oh Gods, had he been gentle?
Suddenly, brilliant images flashed in his minds eye; Ashe's lithe tantalizing body, Noah's enraptured panting face. With another moan of displeasure, he rubbed his hands roughly over his tired face and began to pace the room, yet again.
...
It took several moments for her to summon the courage to knock upon his door.
When she finally did, it opened abruptly and she found a very disheveled Basch on the other side. He opened his mouth, clearly surprised to see her, then he saw the helm in her hands.
"Thank you...Majesty." He lowered his eyes and took the helmet from her hands.
Before he had other options, she walked inside his room and turned to face him.
"I thought it was you."
"That matters not...Asheila...you were...a princess...you should not...have..."
He turned away with a low growl. Before he could control his jealousy, the vile words spewed from his mouth, "Was it as easy for Vossler to receive similar favors?"
She reeled backward as if his words had been a physical blow.
"How...dare...you."
Like a whip, her hand lashed out. A brilliant red mark flared up on the side of his face almost instantly.
She had seen the disheartened look on his face just after she had slapped him before. Slowly he raised his eyes back to hers in a familiar motion. Still her outrage was not quenched, and with him looking calmly into her eyes, she struck him again. As her hand made it's fierce contact with his face, a cry of despair fell from her lips.
Overwhelmed for a moment, she let herself stumble forward against his chest. Grasping at the realization that she may never be this close to him again, she burrowed her face briefly into the warm skin of his throat, feeling his skin become slick with her tears. Then she pushed him angrily away from her and stepped toward the door to his quarters.
She spoke to him just once more, without looking back, "Leave my palace...go back to Archadia where you belong."
The Judge Magister left on an airship that day.
As he neared the ship waiting in the hanger, he stopped walking, and tilted his helm slightly up to see the form on the terrace overlooking the airship dock. The woman above shielded her face with the shadows of her cloak. As he watched, she turned and left the landing, never glancing back. He stood for a moment longer staring up at the void that her presence had filled moments before. Then the judge boarded the airship bound for Archades.
Never before, had he felt such unwelcome in Dalmasca.
More Author's Notes: Eeeekkkk! Long Chapter... Thanks for reading it!
...Oh and Feeny... don't hurt me!