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[xshatterheartx.livejournal.com]

Who: Balthier, Fran and a whole army of other people
When: Afternoon
Where: Mt Bur-Omisace, The Strahl, Rabanastre
What: Getting married!!
Rating: PG-13



To say Fran was nervous was the understatement of the century. She was dressed in the stunning dress she had bought on her trip with Vaan, white high heels and a golden Vieran headdress that spiralled around her ears. Her hair was loose about her shoulders, curled in loose ringlets. She shifted on the spot. She was running late. Very late.

Penelo had finally gotten Krja to stay in her dress, without trying to wriggle out of it. She was currently going through a stage of wanting to run around in her nappy all day. But she was finally in her dress and headband. "You look amazing, Fran. Balthier will be blown away!"

Balthier was already in the temple atop Mt Bur-Omisace. He wore mostly all black; tight leather pants, dress boots with laces up the front, a perfect high-neck shirt with intricate designs in silver embroidery and an ornate vest that was silver instead of gold, designed slightly differently to his golden one and made for its appearance, rather than its sturdiness in battle. All of his outfit was shimmering with gems and silver thread. The fact that Fran was very, very late had him pacing at the altar, in front of the Grand Kiltias. He was nervous as Hell and her being late made it worse.

Vaan was stood with Fran and Penelo. He was wearing a black suit and his hair was neat today, for a change. "You really do, Fran. We should get a move on, though. We're so late I bet Balthier is on the verge of passing out from nerves!!"

Squall rested his hand on Balthier's arm, smiling tenderly. "She'll be here, relax." He whispered, pressing a chaste kiss to Balthier's cheek. He was dressed in smart, black jeans, a skin-tight black t-shirt and a full-length black leather trench coat. He donned eyeliner. His fingers were bejewelled with different rings, and his wrists filled with bracelets, Griever and a collar in place around his neck. His hair falling into his eyes.

Fran gave a nod and picked up her flowers, letting out a nervous sigh. She couldn't believe it was really happening. She couldn't believe she was really going to be Mrs Bunansa. "I... I'm ready. I think."

Penelo smiled and held Krja. She had a rein attached to her so she could walk down the aisle with mommy, but for now, Penelo was carrying her.

Balthier sighed heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I have such a hangover..." he murmured, quiet enough that only Squall and the seemingly sleeping Grand Kiltias would hear him. "If she is not here soon, I am leaving." He crossed his arms, his face slightly flushed from how many people there were just watching him and Squall mutter to each other.

Vaan grinned and offered his arm to Fran once they were safely outside the temple. He was going to be the one walking Fran down the aisle, which made him very nervous but happy about it!

Squall chuckled soft, giving Balthier a gentle nudge. "I told you to lay off the Wyne." He teased, smiling up at Balthier. "She'll be here. I know she will. Have faith."

Fran curled her arm around Vaan's, smiling softly at him. Excitement, nerves and fear danced in her stomach, making her feel most sick. The morning sickness didn't much help either. She gave a nod to Vaan. "Let's do it."

Penelo smiled bright and set Krja down on the floor, keeping a firm hold of her rein, the infant instantly moving to grab at Fran's leg.

Balthier sighed again, resting his hands on his hips and glancing down the aisle, his nose scrunched up. "She'd better be." He murmured, giving Squall a look. "Otherwise, you're becoming my wife, Leonhart. I refuse to leave unwed." He looked rather serious as he spoke.

Vaan led Fran and the others in, pushing open the door and soon leading her along towards the aisle. Music began playing as he walked her down the aisle, trying not to grin more than necessary.

Squall chuckled more. "Looks like that won't be necessary." He murmured, stepping away from Balthier, nodding down the aisle. "Your fiancée is here."

Fran felt like her heart would stop when she saw Balthier. He looked so handsome. She flushed a little, turning her gaze away with a shy smile as she walked along with Vaan.

Penelo walked behind, guiding Krja down the aisle, stopping her from pulling away to waddle to Balthier.

Balthier's gaze fell on Fran and he swallowed hard. This was it, then? He knew just what every single one of the guests was thinking. How close is he going to cut it before he runs? He knew they were expecting the unattainable pirate to make a break for it, but he wouldn't. He loved Fran and would prove them all wrong. If only to be stubborn.

Vaan smiled and once they reached the Grand Kiltias, he let go of Fran and seated himself where the father of the bride would normally sit.

Squall smiled softly at Fran. She looked... amazing. Truly beautiful. He gave Balthier a reassuring smile. "Time to do your thing, Leading Man. It's your spotlight. Enjoy it." He whispered.

Fran handed the flowers to Penelo, before giving Balthier a soft smile. "You look very handsome." She purred, brushing her hand against his. "You still have time to run if you wish it." She whispered, just loud enough for Balthier to hear.

Penelo moved to sit, holding onto the flowers, trying to stop Krja from eating them.

Balthier gave Squall a look and smiled right after, lacing his fingers with Fran's. "You don't look too bad yourself, ma'am," he teased, smiling lightly. "If I planned on running, I'd be gone already." He added, turning to face the Grand Kiltias.

Fran gave his hand a gentle squeeze, her own fingers twitching nervously. She felt incredibly small being watched by all those people.

Krja tugged at her rein, wriggling her way out of the harness to waddle over to the pirate pair, beaming up at them with her tail wagging. Fran gave a laugh and scooped the infant up.

Balthier laughed and took Krja from Fran, holding her in his free arm and keeping a hold on Fran's hand. After a moment, the Grand Kiltias' voice rang out and the room fell silent as he spoke, giving the wedding ceremony.

Squall moved into take Krja from Balthier when the time to exchange rings came, swapping infant for the two matching wedding rings he'd been guarding with his life all day.

Fran couldn't help but blush as they spoke their vows. Vows they had written themselves, her smile refused to leave her lips, her eyes locked on Balthier's the whole time.

Most of his vows were apologetic for all the ways he'd hurt her and promises he'd never do it again, though they both knew that his promises ran quite thin. As they exchanged rings, he removed his pink and blue ones long enough for Fran to put his wedding ring on him before he replaced those coloured ones, and once he was told to kiss his bride, he pulled her close and pressed his lips to hers.

Fran's vows were promises of loyalty and love, words of devotion and almost worship, painting the Leading Man in quite a positive light. A soft squeak escaped her as the rings were exchanged, and the kiss was possibly the sweetest kiss of her entire life! She curled her arms around his neck, kissing back, laughing softly against Balthier's lips as the crowds cheered.

Balthier smiled softly and pulled back from the kiss laughing a little. This all felt a little too... normal. As if he were a regular man who'd never betray his lover, when really, he was pirate to the bone. Selfish and spiteful. This made the whole situation feel a little bit like a lie to the guests but he was still overjoyed to be married to the mother of his children.

Penelo handed the flowers back to Fran, and Squall handed Krja to Balthier, leaning in to kiss both his and Fran's cheeks. "We'll see you back at Rabanastre, okay?"

Balthier gave a nod then looked at Krja. "Well. What to do with this little monster, hm?" He looked at Fran and soon passed Krja off to Vaan, scooping Fran off her feet and carrying her down the aisle, smirking as the crowds whooped and cheered.

Fran gave a soft laugh, curling her arm around Balthier's neck, kissing him softly. She felt happier than she had ever felt in her entire life.

Carrying her out of the temple, he headed straight for the Strahl that was landed nearby, walking onboard and smirking as he carried Fran to the bedroom. He tossed her onto the bed and smirked. "Make yourself comfortable. I shall just get this girl heading to Rabanastre."

Fran gave a soft laugh, setting the flowers aside, sitting on the edge of the bed. She removed her shoes, but made no other attempt to strip.

Balthier set the Strahl on course and a few minutes later he had her in the air and was heading back to Fran. He shifted to sit on the edge of the bed, laughing slightly.

Fran tilted her head to look at him, a soft smile on her lips. "Something amusing, love?"

Balthier lay sideways across the bed, looking up at the skylight and holding his left hand above him. "That I am married." He mumbled.

Fran wriggled to lay beside him, stroking his stomach. "Any regrets?" She asked, nudging his cheek with her nose.

"No," he replied lightly, wiggling his fingers. He removed all three rings on that finger and rotated them until he decided it looked best with his pink and blue on first and then the wedding ring. "You?"

Fran turned her wedding ring around her finger, shaking her head. "No regrets." She murmured, kissing his cheek softly. "The little one decided to make his first appearance this morning, though."

Balthier chuckled lightly and soon closed his eyes, folding his arms under his head. "I am so very glad you are the woman in this relationship."

Fran laughed. "Mm. I am sure we would have no children if you had to cope with such things." Fran teased, toying with Balthier's hair.

"And such is why I am glad I am a man. Besides, I much prefer my physique as it is. I'd rather not have a baby bump." He smiled slightly, though he kept his eyes closed.

Another laugh escaped Fran, her fingers tracing Balthier's stomach playfully. "No doubt you shall have a beer belly in a few years anyway."

"I would keep words like that to myself, were I you, Fran. It is not too late to annul this arrangement." He murmured, quite seriously.

Fran pressed a kiss to Balthier's lips. "I would still love you even if you did have a beer belly."

"Well, I shan't." He grumbled, scrunching his nose up and sighing slightly. He blinked one eye open. "You've damaged my ego. Flatter it." He demanded, smirking slightly.

Fran shifted to half lean over Balthier, toying with his hair, kissing his cheeks, his forehead, his lips, every inch of Balthier's face. "You are handsome." Another kiss. "Smart." Kiss. "Suave." Yet another kiss. "Brave."

Balthier twitched his nose slightly and soon chuckled. "Well, that worked." He teased, petting a hand over her ear, soon letting it slip down to her stomach.

Fran purred softly, resting her hand on top of Balthier's. "Mm. I can charm you with the simplest of true words."

"Hn, true, yet they are so very rarely spoken these days." He murmured, yawning a little. "I have such a headache." He mumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Fran massaged Balthier's temples softly. "A busy night on the Wyne, hm?" She asked, kissing his jaw. "Sleep until we reach Rabanastre."

"That is hardly a romantic wedding day, Fran..." he mumbled, closing his eyes and petting his fingers down her stomach gently.

Fran snuggled into his side. "I do not mind. I am... happy." She murmured, nudging him.

"Then why the pause?" He asked, glancing to her with a frown. "If you were happy you would not pause."

Fran petted his hair. "I was trying to find the right word. Content doesn't do my feelings justice."

Balthier closed his eyes again and settled into the bed. "I see." He folded his arms under his head again.

The Viera stole another soft kiss. "I love you, Balthier Bunansa."

"I love you, Fran Bunansa." He smirked slightly at that, laughing a little right afterwards.

Fran blushed bright, letting out a soft squeak. "Say it again..."

"I love you. Fran Bunansa." He smiled at her, leaning in to kiss her gently.

Fran returned the kiss, cupping Balthier's cheeks. "We must be getting close to Rabanastre, hm?" She purred.

Balthier smiled slightly. "I suppose we must." He nudged her hands away and moved to stand, heading to the cockpit.

Fran shifted to stand, smoothing down her dress, fixing her hair before putting her shoes back on, moving to join Balthier.

As soon as he had the airship landed in Rabanastre's Aerodrome, Balthier slipped his boots back on, lacing them up. "Are you to wear your wedding dress to the reception?"

"What do you wish me to wear, dearest husband?" Fran asked, kissing his head.

"Whatever you wish to wear, save that bathrobe you are so dreadfully fond of. Anything you want, Fran." He shrugged a little, running his fingers through his hair.

Fran turned her back on Balthier. "Unzip me?" She asked, moving her hair to lay over one shoulder.

Balthier grasped the zip and slid it down, soon kissing her shoulder once. "Done." He murmured, stepping back slightly.

Fran smiled and let the dress drop to the floor, revealing the ivory coloured corset beneath. "Give me a couple of minutes to change."

Balthier quirked an eyebrow before nodding and heading to sit in his captain's seat, closing his eyes. This was all too surreal. It just... felt so strange.

Fran returned to the bedroom, slipping into a strapless, red satin bubble cocktail dress. She removed the headdress and changed into black knee high boots.

Balthier remained in the cockpit, soon staring at the insides of his eyelids, wondering just how he, the Legendary Sky Pirate Balthier, had landed himself as a married man with children.

Fran rejoined Balthier in the cockpit, toying with her hair. "Are you ready to face the crowds?"

Balthier blinked one eye open before looking at her with a slight smile. "I suppose I am." He shifted to stand, heading for the exit of the Strahl.

Fran frowned a little and followed him.

Outside the Aerodrome, the streets were lined with people, music and dancing banners and glitter. A line of six chocobos waited, three white, three gold, reined to a luxurious carriage. Squall was stood beside it, waiting for the newly weds.

Balthier scanned the area, soon raising both eyebrows and glancing back at Fran before looking at Squall with only one eyebrow quirked now. "I am to assume you had a hand in all this?"

Fran looked at the carriage, squeaking a little. It was so beautiful.

Squall smiled and opened the carriage door. "Your carriage awaits. Balthier and Fran Bunansa. King and Queen of Sky." He said, giving the slightest of bows.

Balthier rolled his eyes with a slight laugh. "Hilarious, brat," he murmured to Squall, soon getting into the carriage and waiting for Fran.

Fran climbed in and Squall closed the door for her, smiling softly. The driver led the chocobos through the streets of Rabanastre, a trail of moogle dancers leading the way, scattering rose petals along the road.

"I do believe sometimes that boy puts more effort into our relationship than either of us ever has." He joked, lacing his hand with Fran's.

Fran gave a silent nod, toying with Balthier's fingers, watching the moogle dancers.

Squall 'Moogled' his way to the Sandsea, in order to be there before the carriage arrived, Penelo waited at his side, holding Gero and Krja in her arms.

Balthier frowned slightly before just watching the dancers, falling completely silent as well.

Vaan was stood beside Penelo and Squall, cuddling Nono and smiling, waiting for the carriage to arrive at the Sandsea, glad to see everything was going well.

Squall smiled a little as the carriage arrived. He opened the door, once more giving a bow and an oh so gentle smile. "Your adoring fans await your arrival." He helped Fran out of the carriage, before offering his hand to Balthier.

Fran smoothed down her dress once she was out of the carriage and took Krja from Penelo. "Thank you." She smiled, kissing Gero's and Nono's pompoms in turn.

Balthier dismissed the hand and simply stepped out, running his hands through his hair with a slight sigh and giving everyone a usual, polite smile before heading inside the Sandsea.

Vaan blinked a few times as he noticed a slight atmosphere but didn't say anything in case it was just him.

Fran gave a heavy sigh, nuzzling Krja's hair lightly. So much for happy ever after. He couldn't even walk into the Sandsea holding her hand. She didn't want this. She didn't want to fight on her wedding day. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to relax, before simply following Balthier inside.

Squall frowned a little. He didn't like this seeming wall of ice between the newly weds. He followed them inside, instantly moving to the bar to get a glass of champagne for Balthier and non-alcoholic wine for Fran.

Penelo blinked at Vaan questioningly, wrinkling up her nose.

Balthier scanned the inn, soon finding his and Fran's table and seating himself, waiting for Fran, even if she decided not to come and sit with him.

Vaan shrugged slightly, soon heading inside, cuddling Nono up, nuzzling his head gently.

Fran gave polite smiles to all those who congratulated her as she made her way over to their table, holding Krja out to her daddy. She sat down, looking at all the decorations, and the table of gifts and the cake. "People have been busy."

Squall brought the drinks over. "Can I get either of you anything else at the moment?"

Balthier took Krja and smiled, nuzzling their noses together. "It seems so. I did not expect it." He murmured, his eyes set on his daughter until he was given a drink. He downed it in one then shook his head. "I am fine as I am, thank you."

Fran took her drink from Squall, offering him a smile. "Thank you, Squall. Everything is so wonderful. You must've been so busy..."

Squall shrugged. "I wanted it to be perfect. You deserve it. You've both done so much for me, I wanted to repay you. Besides, Vaan and Penelo helped."

Balthier smiled slightly and snuggled Krja up. "Thank you." He murmured to Squall, soon nuzzling Krja more, amused at her fighting her dress.

Fran sipped at her drink, giving Krja's nose a light poke. "Ah ah! No running around naked, little one." She murmured.

Squall smiled soft. "I'll come see you guys later. And we got the speeches and cake cutting to do in awhile too."

Balthier chuckled lightly, resting his chin on his hand and watching his daughter. "Like mother like daughter, hm?" He teased his new wife, grinning at Squall. "Cake sounds very tempting right now..."

Fran nudged Balthier lightly. "I don't hear you complaining, love." She murmured, smiling softly.

Squall gave a laugh. "You guys want to cut the cake and all that stuff first then? And there's the first dance..."

Balthier chuckled again, smiling softly. "I never do, Fran." He smirked and settled his gaze on the teen. "I think that sounds like a good plan."

Squall smiled and leaned in to take Krja from Balthier. "Come on then, both of you." He moved towards the cake table, announcing that Balthier and Fran were about to cut the cake and make their speeches. He handed Krja to Penelo, pouring champagne for everyone in the room except Fran, and then fished the video camera from his pocket.

Balthier stood, taking Fran's hand and following her to the table, chuckling and poking the porcelain figures on the topper, pointing out the Vieran ears on the bride. "Very realistic, don't you think, Fran?" He teased, squeezing her hand gently and picking up the knife, holding the handle out to her.

Fran gave a soft laugh. "Mm. Very." She kept hold of his hand, giving a gentle squeeze of her own. Her free hand curled around the handle of the knife, her eyes locked on Balthier. "I love you." She whispered.

He chuckled lightly, nudging his nose against her cheek. "I love you too," he whispered back, grasping the back of her hand and guiding it to the cake, making the first cut together.

The room erupted with drunken cheers as the knife sliced through the cake. Fran smiled at Balthier as they made the cut. She pulled the knife away, licking it, before holding it to Balthier's lips.

"Speech!!!" Squall called from where he was filming. Causing the rest of the crowd to call and chant for speeches.

Balthier licked some of the frosting from the knife, laughing softly and rolling his eyes as Squall started the crowd off on chanting. "You can go first, Fran." He mumbled, curling his hand around her waist.

Fran flushed bright. "Well... I um... First of all... Thank you for joining us on this very special day. It has been a long time coming and there were many times when I thought it never would. Balthier and I have been through so much... Adventure and heartache, we have stood together through it all. We have both strayed, but we have both found our way back. To stand here as Mrs Fran Bunansa... it... makes me so happy..." She started.

Balthier smiled softly, a faint blush rising on his face and his gaze falling to a glass of champagne. He picked it up and sipped it, looking at Fran as she spoke.

"I have lived a long life. I have regrets, Yet my biggest regrets are straying from Balthier's side. There have been times when I walked away... Walked away when I was needed most. For that I am sorry." She scrunched up her nose a little. "My love for Balthier is greater than any love on Gaia. I have found contentment. With Balthier, Krja, Nono, Gero, the little one, and our dearest, most trusted friends. I have found my place in the world."

Balthier downed the rest of his drink and cupped Fran's cheek, turning her head to capture her lips in a kiss, closing his eyes tight at the threat of tears.

Fran smiled against Balthier's lips, nudging their noses together. "You're turn." She whispered.

Balthier laughed lightly, placing the glass on the table and clearing his throat, keeping his arm around Fran. "Well... I've no idea how to follow that..." he murmured, eliciting a round of chuckles from the crowds. "Um... As Fran said, thank you all for being here; I know most of you would much rather be off sailing skies or seas, whatever your preference may be." He frowned slightly, trying to find some words. After a pause he continued. "I have no right to be stood here. Fran deserves a man far better than I could ever be. I've lied to her, broken her heart, broken her trust... but I thank the heavens she takes me back no matter how much of a fool I am," he began, pausing to take another breath.

Fran smiled softly, resting her head on Balthier's shoulder, a slight blush on her cheeks. She curled an arm around his back, petting his hip gently.

"There is very little I can say or do to change the man I am and how I've let myself become who I am today, but I know that no matter the troubles, Fran will be there. She may have walked away in times I needed her most, and I may have strayed far too many times I can count, but I love Fran and nothing will change that." Balthier smiled slightly, swallowing hard. "I never believed I would get married, in truth I found little weight in the act previously... but I am glad I've married the mother of my daughter and our unborn son. I am proud to have Fran as my wife," he finished.

Fran kissed Balthier softly. More cheers erupted around the room, and Squall grinned brightly from behind the video camera, hoping he wouldn't have to give a speech.

Penelo squeaked, clasping her hands over her mouth. "Vaan! Fran's pregnant! Did you hear that? Oh my gosh! Did you know?"

Balthier laughed lightly, soon settling his gaze upon Squall, walking over and taking the camera, placing it in Vaan's hands. "Your turn, Leonhart," he cooed.

Vaan gasped as he was given the camera, blinking at it and aiming it at Balthier and Squall. "I had no idea, Pen!"

Fran gave a soft laugh. "Yes, Squall. It is only fair. You are the best man, after all."

Squall blushed a little, folding his arms behind his back. "Well... okay. But I've not prepared anything so..." He shifted a little on the spot. "I haven't known Balthier and Fran as long as most of you have. We met in strange circumstances and a friendship quickly blossomed. It is no secret that I love Balthier. But I also love Fran. The pair of them have been there for me, they have helped me through so much. Without them... I would not be alive today." He smiled softly at them both, holding up a glass of champagne. "Balthier. Fran. Thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for being there. I hope your future is full of happiness. You deserve it." He said, downing the glass.

Balthier chuckled and stood behind Fran for the majority of the speech, holding her around the waist with his hands on her stomach. As Squall finished his speech, Balthier kissed Fran's shoulder before moving towards Squall, pulling him into a tender embrace, saying nothing but, "I love you," whispered in his ear.

Squall smiled softly, giving a nod. He pulled away, running a hand along Balthier's chest as he did so. "I believe it's time for the first dance."

Balthier gave a smirk, half tempted to drag Squall off for this first dance but instead he kissed the teen's cheek and moved to Fran, taking her hand and leading her to the middle of the Sandsea floor where the tables had all been pushed aside.

Squall remembered a talk he had had with Fran, during the month Balthier vanished, about the first time Balthier and Fran had danced. It was aboard the Strahl, to an old Archadian song. It had taken some searching, but he had managed to find the sheet music for it, and now a group of musicians appeared in the room, beginning to play.

Fran gasped a little, blushing bright as she laced her fingers with Balthier, her free hand resting on his shoulder.

Balthier laughed lightly, glancing towards Squall before resting his free hand on Fran's waist. "How familiar, hm?" He smiled gently, beginning to lead the dance.

Squall gave an innocent smile, swiping the video camera from Vaan to film the dance.

Fran gave a nod. "Mm. I remember it well." She smiled, falling into step with Balthier, following him perfectly, with grace and talent.

Balthier knew just how to dance with Fran. With her being taller than him, he was able to allow for it with grace and poise. A suave smile remained on his lips as he whisked her around the dance floor.

Fran kept her eyes locked on Balthier's, losing herself in his gaze as they danced, shutting off the rest of the world from her mind.

Penelo let out a dreamy sigh, rocking on her heels. "It's so romantic." She all but swooned.

Balthier's smile softened a little as he found the crimson eyes across from his own, leaning in to kiss her gently as he danced with her.

Vaan stepped in front of Penelo and bowed gracefully before offering his hand. "May I have this dance?" He grinned up at her.

Fran returned the kiss, closing her eyes, letting Balthier fuide and lead her completely, placing her trust in him not to let her fall.

Penelo blushed and took hold of Vaan's hand. She gave a nod and curtseyed. "It would be my pleasure."

Balthier did just that; he twirled her around as if she were just a feather in his hand, dancing with her as gracefully as any Archadian gentry should.

Vaan grinned more and pulled Penelo close, dancing with her as best he knew how. He wasn't the greatest but he'd learnt a thing or two.

Fran laughed softly as they danced, her earlier worries had melted away, replaced with a soothing contentment.

Penelo leaned in to kiss Vaan, letting him lead her, despite the urge to take control. She smiled bright at him.

Balthier kissed her cheek gently, nuzzling her nose with his own. "Fran..." he whispered, nudging her nose gently.

Vaan smiled, kissing back and leading as best as he could. He might not have been a pro like Penelo but he was going pretty well.

Fran's hand moved to thread through Balthier's hair, her eyes blinking open to once more find his. "Mm?"

Penelo smiled brighter, laughing a little as others began to join them in the space on the floor. "You're good, Vaan."

Balthier kissed her softly, trailing a few kisses along her jaw. "I love you." He murmured.

Vaan laughed a little, shaking his head slightly. "I'm alright, I guess." He shrugged a little, grinning cheekily.

Slipping out from the crowd, Rinoa made her way over to Squall. She'd gotten her friend David to baby-sit and she'd been at the wedding. After hitching a ride with some very fun pirates, she was planning on dancing with Squall. She grasped his hand, dragging him to the dancefloor after handing the camera to a nearby man.

Fran smiled bright. "I love you too, my handsome Pirate King." She purred, kissing him lovingly.

Penelo poked Vaan's side. "Stupid, you're good! Learn to accept a compliment!"

Squall blinked as he was dragged. He looked at Rinoa, blushing just slightly. It was an all too familiar scene. Only, back then, he couldn't dance. He had learned now, if his legs would allow it. He swallowed hard and laced their fingers together, resting his hand on Rinoa's side.

Balthier chuckled and grasped Fran's hand, whisking her off to the balcony where their table was, glad that the majority of people were dancing and they were alone up there. He then proceeded to pin the Viera to the back wall, kissing her neck and sliding a hand down her thigh, lifting her leg around himself.

Vaan chuckled and kissed her nose. "Shut up!" He teased, twirling her before pulling her up close.

Rinoa settled a hand on Squall's shoulder, kissing his cheek gently. "Don't worry if you can't dance as well as before, okay?" She whispered, giving him a wink. She was dressed in a pale blue dress that met the floor, having a split all the way up to her hip on one side.

Fran laughed and blushed bright, draping her arms lazily over Balthier's shoulders. "Mm." She purred soft, resting her head back against the wall. "Planning on having your wicked way with me, love?"

Penelo twirled with grace, pressing herself chest to chest with Vaan, kissing him softly.

Squall gave a slight nod, beginning to lead her, his steps slow and nervous at first. "You look amazing." He murmured. "Where is Loire?"

Balthier purred against her skin, biting at it a little, sliding his tongue lower, kissing the exposed area of her chest, nipping lightly. "Mayhap I am. Are you to stop me?"

Vaan blushed as he was pressed tight to his girlfriend, kissing back. "Pen... tonight... I want..." he stopped, blushing brighter and glancing away.

Rinoa smiled softly. "You look very handsome," she cooed, running her thumb under his made-up eye. "Loire is safe; David is watching him."

Fran let out a soft moan. "Mm. Do I ever? Though the children are not far away." She laughed, toying with his hair.

Penelo blushed bright, giving a nod. "I um... me too, Vaan. So... don't get too drunk, okay?" She buried her head against his neck to hide her blush.

Squall smiled, leading Rinoa as they danced. "It's nice to see you." He murmured, pressing a chaste kiss to her forehead.

Balthier chuckled softly, kissing at her neck and nipping his way to her lips. "Then I shall save this entirely for tonight." He murmured.

Vaan laughed slightly, kissing her ear lightly. "You can't drink too much, either, Pen," he murmured, holding her close as they danced.

Rinoa flushed brightly, laughing softly. "It's nice to see you, too, Squall." She smiled up at him, giving his hand a light squeeze.

Fran returned the kiss. "I look forward to it. Now, if you are done with the molesting... the little one craves cake, be a dear and fetch some?" She teased, fluttering her eyelashes at Balthier.

Penelo kept her head on Vaan's shoulder as they danced. "I'm perfectly sober... Mostly..."

Squall smiled soft, dancing with Rinoa, his feet becoming a little more confident, but he knew he wouldn't be able to dance for long.

Balthier raised an eyebrow, reaching to slap her backside. "Get your own, woman." He murmured, growling playfully as he bit into her neck, sucking enough to leave a bruising hickey.

Vaan chuckled, kissing her again on her head. "Sure you are." He ran his fingers up and down her back, smiling softly.

Rinoa danced with him only a moment longer before kissing his cheek and grasping his hand, leading him to an empty table.

Fran gave another soft moan, running her fingertips over the mark with a blush, leaning in to do the same to Balthier, before giving him a playful pout, stroking her stomach. "But love, the little one... he desires cake..."

Penelo laughed softly. "Well... maybe I'm a little tipsy. But it's a wedding and we're pirates..." She grinned, stealing a kiss. "I love you, Vaan."

Squall let Rinoa lead him from the dance floor, settling down in the seat. "That was nice."

Balthier blew a raspberry on her neck, growling again. "Then go and get him cake, Viera. I am your husband, not your slave." He murmured.

Vaan blushed, chuckling a little. "I love you too, Pen." He kissed her cheek and grasped her hand, leading her to a vacant table nearby.

Rinoa nodded softly, taking two glasses of champagne from a barmaid going round, handing one to Squall and sipping her own.

Fran gave a huff and pulled away from Balthier, stealing another kiss as she did so. She made her way to the cake table, cutting herself a slice, before returning to the balcony.

Penelo swiped a couple of glasses of champagne as they sat down, handing one to Vaan. "I can't believe Fran and Balthier are having another baby! It's so sweet!"

Squall took the glass from Rinoa with a thankful smile, taking a soft sip. "How have you been?"

Balthier settled into his seat, glancing over the balcony to keep an eye on the pirate holding Krja. It seems she was being passed around like a party favour for everyone to coo at and swoon over.

Vaan grinned, downing the glass before smiling at Penelo. "I'm just glad it's a boy this time! Balthier might calm down now he's married and has a daughter and a son on the way."

Rinoa smiled slightly. "I've been fine. Loire misses you. You should spend some time with him soon."

Fran settled in the seat next to Balthier, taking a bite from the slice of cake. "She is fine. Do not worry. No one would dare harm her. Besides, Nono and Gero would bite their ankles if they tried."

Penelo sipped at her own drink. "Balthier will always be Balthier. I don't think anything will change him."

Squall gave a nod, toying with the rim of his glass. "I'll visit soon. Maybe we could go to the park with him..."

Balthier twitched his nose, resting his legs across the table and folding his arms over his chest. "I've a right to worry." He mumbled, yawning slightly. "How is the boy?" He asked.

A sigh escaped and Vaan nodded. "True enough... he'll always be just the way he is..." he mumbled.

Rinoa smiled, nodding. "We could! I think he'd like that. I'd like that..." she rested her hand on his wrist, settling her gaze on his.

Fran continued to eat her cake, flicking a crumb at Balthier. "The little one, or the larger one? The little one is contented now he has cake. The larger one is seemingly content with his current company."

Penelo pressed her lips to Vaan's. "We'll just have to be around to keep him in line!"

Squall let out a contented sigh, looking into Rinoa's eyes. "I'd like that too. You, me, Loire and Angelo."

Balthier glanced towards Squall, smiling slightly. "Mayhap they will settle some differences today..." he murmured.

Vaan chuckled against her kiss. "Well, you've got this inn covered. What about the other fifty thousand million bazillion all over Gaia? We can't keep him away from every barmaid... not to mention Squall living with them..."

Rinoa chuckled lightly. "Yeah... she wasn't too happy about not being invited to the wedding. Angelo, I mean." Rinoa laughed again, curling her fingers in Squall's hand.

Fran gave a nod. "Mayhap." She finished her cake and left the balcony once more to take Krja from the group of pirates currently holding her, carrying her up the stairs to her daddy.

Penelo scrunched up her nose. "Well um... ... I guess it'll be harder than I thought..."

Squall blushed a little as their fingers were laced together. He brushed his own fingertips against Rinoa's, smiling softly at her.

Balthier instantly made grabby hands at the infant, before she had the chance to do just the same, giving her a silly grin and laughing softly.

Vaan nodded slightly. "We'll have to just keep reminding him just who it is he's married to now." He murmured.

Rinoa smiled softly, holding his hand loosely, her eyes finding the surface of the table. They'd been together two years but even still she felt like a little girl around him. And she was older!!

Fran put Krja down on the floor near Balthier, letting her waddle to her daddy, making grabby hands in return, giggling loud as she tried to pull herself onto his lap.

Penelo laughed. "Yup! And we'll kick his ass if he messes her around!"

Squall drew their hands up to his face, pressing a tender kiss to the back of Rinoa's hand.

Balthier smiled and scooped Krja up, cuddling her and placing a kiss on her nose. "And how are you enjoying the party, sprite?"

Vaan scoffed a little. "You can try! I'm not getting in a fight with that guy! He'd kick my butt!!"

Rinoa laughed softly. "Such a gentleman," she teased, smiling softly at him and wiggling her fingers.

Fran smiled, rubbing her stomach lightly as she watched Balthier and Krja. Krja beamed bright, holding up a shiny pocket watch.

Penelo grinned bright. "That's because you're a wimp." She teased, knowing that Vaan was actually very strong and brave.

Squall chuckled, pressing a kiss to Rinoa's palm, nuzzling it a little before releasing her hand.

Balthier blinked at the watch, tilting his head slightly. "Well... she has an eye for quality..." he chuckled, slipping the watch into his pocket and kissing his daughter's nose.

Vaan stuck his tongue out before settling back in his seat, ordering another drink from a barmaid.

Rinoa smiled lightly, a blush on her face. "How've you been, Squall?" She asked quietly.

Krja then pulled a necklace from the pocket of her dress, and a gold ring. Fran blinked a little. "Like father, like daughter."

Penelo shifted from her seat to sit on Vaan's lap instead, kissing his cheek.

"I've been... okay. Lonely. I mean... Balthier and Fran are great fun and they've been really good to me, but... it's their home, ya know? I'm just kinda... there."

Balthier laughed and slipped the items away into his own pocket, snuggling Krja all up. "Such a clever little girl!" He cooed, smooching her cheek.

Vaan chuckled and snuggled Penelo up in his arms, kissing her softly on the lips.

Rinoa frowned a little, tucking her hair behind her ear. "If you need a place to stay... well... I'm sure there are places in Balamb Town that are pretty cheap..."

Fran laughed softly. "She has started young, it seems." She rested her head on Balthier's shoulder, rubbing her stomach more. Krja giggled and gave Balthier a baby kiss, before settling against his chest.

Penelo smiled, returning the kiss, before cuddling up to Vaan, content in his embrace.

Squall gave a nod. "I'll be fine. I'm sure I'll find somewhere. Don't worry about me."