Once in her classroom, Quistis headed to her desk to find some random papers laying there. She lightly touched one of them and as she moved it aside, she noted an envelope in manila color. She tilted her head and as she was about to take a sit the silent beep of the watch on her wrist halted that action. She as well just had a few hours to go change and take a rest, so she left the envelope behind resting a top of her desk unaware that the envelope contained such disastrous news. Making her way across the corridor towards the elevator, she gave a slight nod towards one of the Trepies, maybe, as she pressed the button to go down.
The elevator doors slid open and she walked inside almost pressuring herself as if she were going to be late to some meeting. The doors closed behind her and in no time she was already stepping outside to the lobby with her mind full of thoughts as usual. She noticed a few students making their way to their dormitories; others were already dressed in their cadet uniforms waiting in the lobby for their commander or instructor. She gave a slight fading smile since she was very proud of course; her students had always proven excellent.
Making her way towards the dormitory area she passed by the infirmary and noticed that Dr. Kadowaki was apparently gesturing for her to come. She gaze a puzzled look and as she reached the doctor this one spoke, "Quistis Trepe, just the person I was going to go look for. I have one of your students here with me…" Quistis's eyes went a bit alarmed as she was thinking what possible student could be in the infirmary, hopefully nothing grave. She followed the doctor in fast steps just to catch up to the doctors own normal speed, "Is the student alright? Who is it?" Dr. Kadowaki shook her head slightly and stopped at the entrance of the infirmary, then gave a gentle chuckle, "Calm down. He just seemed have a bad day…"
They both entered the infirmary and Dr. Kadowaki opened the curtains to the small room, "He will sure need rest…" Quistis blinked at the patient, Zell, and in some way she felt relieved it had not been someone else, but that was a mean thought so she forgot about it. "Zell Dintch, " the instructor crossed her arms slowly with a sigh as she walked up to the side of the bed, "Please don't tell me that you got in Seifer's way…" She knew that the ninety-five percent of the persons that came into the infirmary where sent here because of Seifer, and Hyne! She could not stand that.
Zell tried to sit up, but Kadowaki stopped him and motioned a no with her index finger, "You have to rest, boy, at least for today. Seifer did hurt you even if it seems mild." Quistis glanced to the doctor and then at her student, "You heard her, Zell…" The stubborn student gave a frustrated gesture and turned to his teacher, "But the test is today!" He actually pouted not really stated. "I know, but I am sure Cid will let you make it up, it was something unexpected," Quistis nodded towards Zell as Dr. Kadowaki walked towards her desk sat down. "But I am perfectly fine!" Zell was about to punch the air as he sat up, but cringed and plopped back down on the bed, "urgh…" He slowly placed his hands on his rib cage area and closed his eyes as Kadowaki gave a glare at him and then shake her head.
"No, Zell, you will stay here, I will explain this to Cid," She was not going to explain anything anymore. Quistis turned around and gave a respective nod to the doctor, then whispered, "How bad is he?" Kadowaki glanced at Zell, who had an arm on his forehead as he was still cringing, then she turned back to Quistis, "He does had an internal bruise on the rib bone, that is why I do not recommend him to move so much." Quistis gave a final glance to Zell before thanking Dr. Kadowaki and then stepping outside the place. It made her mad that Seifer simply acted like an animal wanting to destroy everything around him! "No… Animals don't do that…" She sighed and now she was to head to the dormitory to change having now no time to take a quick break.
* * *
Already changed, Quistis was sitting down at her personal desk on the corner with her legs crossed as she gave a little meditation. There was a few minutes left before she had to leave to meet with her students to go to the city. It will be me instead of Zell, I suppose it is better… that way I get to grade their behaviors easily, Quistis thought then shifting her memories to her student. Squall would not fail because she knew he had been a great student, in fact one of the bests, but that might also be her obsession kicking in. She shook her head lightly and glanced at the wall clock since it was time to leave.
She stood up dusting her black skirt lightly and then headed for the door. She was opening the door, but stop overhearing a conversation between Xu and the Headmaster directing perhaps to the office before heading to the lobby. "Is so sad how a person like her must be replaced. Sadly things need to be done and strictness is the first one of them, Xu…" Cid said in a quite silent tone. Quistis could not see what gestures were their using and then she could only catch certain words, like "yes, maybe, whom". She arched an eyebrow slightly and since she couldn't really put the phrase together she walked out of her room.
* * *
In the Lobby of the Garden, Quistis was standing near the location directory drifting a bit in her thoughts. She was concentration on what Dollet might come up with this time, the instructor was thinking of her being part of the group by replacing Zell, yet she would not be the squad leader because that would make the test a lot easier. The slow steps that echoed the hallway made Quistis come back to reality to turn and face one of her students, "Not so early this time, Squall," she implied giving a little giggle/chuckle. Squall shrugged his shoulders as he stopped before his teacher, "Whatever…"
She shook her head lightly with a tender smile still upon her lips raising her hand to her chin. Now again she spoke with a more authoritative tone, "Your partner for the mission, Zell Dintch, will not be able to attend so I am to be in the mission, " she felt actually happiness to be able to take care of her platonic love, her brotherly student. The lone wolf gave a cold nod and finally gave a small hint of talk, "I am glad…" Squall said and realized that this statement could give a turn around so he added, "that Zell will not come, that is. He is extremely loud…" Quistis felt as if she had to say: I am sorry… it cannot be changed. However, why would she need to say that?
Both Quistis and Squall lifted their gaze as they heard the stomping steps of the so-called squad leader. Seifer's blue eyes darted a very arrogant glare towards Quistis and then at Squall, just as that wicked grin came across his lips. Fuujin and Rajin followed him closely behind in short strides, of course Fuujin having that "I Will Kill You" expression written on her face while Rajin seemed a bit distracted. "So I get stuck with the weakest," Seifer said with a harsh laugh as he crossed his arms and as he was about to walk away, Cid came to the Lobby. "Good morning, students," he said silently nodding in a greeting manner, "as you already know this mission will take place in Dollet. I wish you the best of luck, now move along to the parking lot where you are to be taken from there."
Quistis nodded obediently before Cid left she explained of Zell's inciden to him. The Headmaster understood and then took his leave giving Quistis a chance to shoot a glance at Seifer that meant a scolding. "Seifer, you are the squad leader and remember harming other students while training is not something you ought to do," she said in a neutral tone, "in any case, I wish you both luck since I am just going to be more than likely a guide…" Seifer gave a smirk and then frowned towards the instructor, "Instructor… I hate it when people wish me luck, save those words for bad students who need them."
Quistis nodded solemnly or appeared to, when she spoke, "Alright then," she started to move along with Squall as she glanced over her shoulder, "good luck, Seifer." Seifer curved his fingers onto a fist glaring towards Quistis and waved his hand dismissingly at both Rajin and Fuujin as he started to follow his partners in stomping strides. All three headed to the parking lot where they where to be taken to Balamb City.
* * *
Balamb City was as usual calm and quiet with not many things to admire yet the bay was always lighted with the sun's reflection or the moon's. The students and the instructor stepped outside the vehicle, Quistis immediately started to head towards the hoover craft where Xu was expecting her already. Squall for a moment just stood there and awaited any order, but Seifer pushed him aside with his shoulder as this one was directing to the hoover craft as well, "Out of my way." Pushing other non-important people out of his way, Seifer made his way inside followed by Quistis and then Squall.
Inside, Xu stood now with her hands clasped together in front of herself while she glanced from person to person. She directed herself to the board and allowed her glance to fall on Seifer, "Good to see again, Seifer." Seifer did not glanced back; he just sat down not waiting for his comrade and instructor to do so first. "I just love this tests," Seifer snapped back with a quite neutral tone. Quistis was next to sit down across from Seifer and Squall besides him, they both turned to Xu, who was already starting to explain the situation in Dollet.
"…the Galdabian Army has emerged…" and she continued her long explanation, of course, losing Seifer in less than the middle of it. Quistis already had the idea and she knew what her students where thinking: Seifer was thinking of getting it over with and Squall… well, she more or less guessed that he was just going to do whatever the squad leader told him to. "…and that is when we SeeDs move out," Xu finished and she would have asked if they had any questions, but she had to leave that part to Quistis since Xu must retire.
Quistis followed Xu with her gaze until she disappeared and that is when she leaned back on her chair somewhat giving a random glance about. She moved her gaze upwards and then to Squall, who to her surprise, he shot a glance back. The tasteless glance of her student had been unexpected and this made a light red tint creep her cheeks, but she managed to stable that. "Instructor, the mission- test- will it-" Squall's words were broken by the harsh voice of Seifer's irritated self. "Go out and check what is going on," Seifer commanded as he looked away in a bored manner. Quistis glanced from Seifer to Squall a little unsure and nodded to her so to say favorite student.
Squall did not respond to either Quistis's nod or Seifer's command; he just stood up and left the small room. Quistis gave a gentle disappointed sigh since Seifer was showing attitude already, but her glance flew towards Seifer when he stood up. He didn't even said anything for what reason he was leaving, but she hardly cared although she would be responsible for any act of his. No, from the moment we touch that island I will be just a cadet following the squad leader's decision… She thought and for a brief moment, she closed her eyes.
In this little moment, she was wondering how this test would be going to come out. She actually didn't want Seifer to fail, this time, for two simple reasons: The first was because she thought it was a waste of potential, and second, it would mean she had to handle another year with the trouble maker. Now her mind was drifting to Squall, and slowly she tried to not think of anything anymore, but it was hard. Quistis crossed her arms and tried to order herself not to let her feelings for Squall, either being sisterly or platonic, come forward… at least in this mission. Little she knew that trying to push feelings aside is not very simple, specially for a person who can understand everyone's feelings with exception of her own.
* * *
The pod/craft landed abruptly on the beach and immediately opened itself to allow its passengers move outside to the coast. Quistis had been ready when Xu had come in the room and told her about their approach. Naturally, Seifer was the first one to jump outside and start to run towards the steps, "Don't fall behind!" Seifer laughed at this statement, which made Quistis frown and sigh patiently. Squall was next on moving out followed by the instructor, yet they both did not really run towards Seifer's position.
Seifer stopped as soon as he went up the steps and he glanced, with that intimidating glare of his, towards Quistis and Squall. Quistis thought she noticed him mumble something under his breath, but did not bother to let him know this, "We are to head -" And Quistis got interrupted by Seifer's uninterested tone, yet harshly continued the phrase for her, "to the center of Dollet and wait for the army to appear…" Seifer nodded towards Quistis and then started to glance at the street noticing two guards coming.
Squall was not glancing at anyone when this little conversation took place; in fact he had spotted the two Galbadian guards coming towards them a few moments before Seifer. As usual, Squall wouldn't bother to mention that they had been coming because he didn't seem to care, or did he? Quistis followed both Squall's and Seifer's gaze and as soon as she saw the guards closing to attack, she immediately took hold of her weapon. Both her students took a second longer than her to prepare to attack: Seifer, of course, making his way more to the front in order to get more "fun" out of beating this persons while Squall just took a step forward besides Quistis glancing absently at the upcoming soldiers.
Quistis was about to take a step forward to attack, but Seifer did not even wait for anyone to advance more, "Just leave this to me," Seifer commanded and grinned. He rapidly slashed at one of the guards with that wicked grin still upon his lips as if he were enjoying this damage, and Quistis knew he was. The other guard got somewhat distracted at this sudden action of Seifer, and at this Squall took the opportunity to analyze his opponent. As Squall was moving to hit the guard he felt the hard slam of Seifer's shoulder against his taking him off balance, "Working in team means getting out of my way!"
Quistis's expression shifted to a somewhat worried one, but her pale features showed something that could have been a glare or more. Seifer struck the other guard, making fall to the ground besides the other and then he down glanced at Squall with an intimidating gaze, although noticing Quistis's expression he smirked knowing that as much as she wanted to call his attention and scold him, she would not be able to do so in this trip. It was right that Quistis knew she was just a cadet now, yet she also knew Seifer would feel free to enjoy humiliating her as well as Squall.
As Seifer ran forward, Quistis glanced at Squall and started to walk towards him, she so much wanted to offer him her help and she desired him to accept it, but she was far cleverer to know that he wouldn't accept. Squall noticed that the instructor was heading towards him and he stood up slowly gazing over to Quistis. She thought he gave a nod, but she wasn't certain and she started to walk quite at a fast pace in order to catch up to Seifer. Squall tilted his head some as she walked past him and then obediently followed losing himself in the blank thoughts of his mind.
Finally arriving to the center of Dollet, the plaza, Quistis noticed Seifer having a little fight with another Galbadian soldier, but she just stood there and did nothing. Squall was about to perhaps charge at the soildier, but Quistis shot her hand out to block Squall's way. By the time she realized she had hold of Squall's arm, he glanced at her hand with a freezing gaze and was already moving his arm somewhat to lose himself from Quistis's grip having that cold expression still there. She was going to explain to Squall why she had stopped him, but at the same time Quistis's hand fell back besides her, Seifer stood besides both of them and let the tip of his gunblade to touch the cobblestone ground.
"I got rid of the last guard here, now we will wait for the army to pass by," Seifer's commanding tone shifted to a more frustrated one as he turned his back to them glancing upwards, "wait… what a boring word." Squall walked away for a moment to lean on the statue near by and rest his gunblade to his side not interested on what was going around maybe. Quistis gave a short smile as she noticed that retriever dog wagging his tail and crying at Seifer, probably wanting to be petted. She would have sent a light giggle, but she was not able to make it come forward so she looked away and started to drift.
* * *
"I promise I am going to be perfect!" A child Quistis said quite excitedly at the adult who was fixing the room, "And I am never going to cry, you know? And I am never going to be afraid, either!" Quistis wore a gray blue sweater that matched her gleaming, pale eyes. As usual, a long skirt was to combine with the sweater and she had chosen a complete gray one for the occasion. Almost all the time she wore long skirts and long sleeve shirts or sweaters to look mature and authoritative, not to mention restricted self.
The unknown silhouette of the person gave a hint of chuckling and continued fixing the dormitories without saying a word to the little blonde child. Little Quistis smiled and jumped down from her bed almost stumbling to keep her balance, "I am going to take care of the children whenever they need my help, I am going to teach them all I know and I have heard!"
The person seemed to glance at Quistis and nodded then continued back to fix the drawers, finally this person spoke, a female voice somewhat familiar, "And will you dress like all the other little girls like you whenever you fall in love?" The expression little Quistis gave was amusingly funny because it seemed she twitched at this question. Quistis put her hands on her hips narrowing her gaze as if what she was just asked frustrated her, "I am never going to be like all the other ones, I am unique and special! I have heard others say so… and… and yeah that." Quistis tried to avoid the other part of the question. Love. She was very young, but it was true that she was gifted, she was very advanced and mature for her age, and she always knew how to solve all sorts of puzzles. "What if you find someone you like? Would you stop wearing those long skirts and decide to go for a fancy dress?" The person shifted to a different drawer, but she was just a shadow anywhere she went never touched by the dim lit room.
She blinked as she had unsuccessfully avoided that theme, but as she answered she kept that precious proud gaze locked on the person even if this one wasn't looking, "I am not going to fall for anyone!" She pouted and the person gave a light laugh at this sudden statement, but said nothing else. "I know I won't because… because…" her little cheeks started to take a light pinkish color and she rapidly tried to find a excuse for the answer she just gave and found one, "because there is no one like me! There is no one reserved, quiet, calm, and hard-to-make-friends like me." Quistis nodded firmly feeling very happy about her answer even though she knew little that she was wrong… again.
The person gave a little laugh again and turned to Quistis, "So you will never fall in love? And if you find a person like that?" Quistis little cheeks turned red instead of keep their pink tone and she crossed her baby like arms across her chest, "First, there is no one like I just describe and I don't need to fall in love because… because it is dumb." The last word was said in a mockingly tone while her cheeks still burned with that crimson color, "I don't loose my time thinking about that, the people who think of that are the ones who still play with dolls!"
"Quisty, the people who play with dolls enjoy it as much as you enjoy thinking and observing," the unknown girl said from away. Quistis wriggled her nose as she heard that nickname and then corrected, "I don't like to be called like that, it sounds childish." The woman in the shadows giggled and shook her head lightly, "But you are a child, now come and meet the new kids that you will care for as you said."
Quistis nodded happily because since she was usually the older in the orphanage she enjoyed being bossy and act mature. She always knew what was going on in other's minds, but no one knew what was going in hers since she hardly ever said something about her thoughts. As far as most knew, she was a quiet and intelligent person with a lot of future. Quistis blinked as a random person opened the door an introduced her to the three kids about her age, "This is Quisty, and Quisty this are -"
"Quistis," she corrected before letting the random person continue meanwhile she studied the caring and happy girl in the yellowish dress. Shifting her glace to study the two male ones then trying her best to look proud of being herself. "Yes, Quistis, this is Selphie," the person gestured towards Selphie, who gave a small wave back. "This is Zell," the kid nodded a few times in a hyperactive kind of way and stopped as they mentioned the other one's name, "and Squall." That last kids only shoved his hands into his pants' pockets and glanced lazily towards Quistis, who blinked and her gaze fell on Squall's cold eyes, she narrowed her gaze a little because she felt, from the very first moment, that he would make her cry even if she had promised she wouldn't, but she wasn't sure why.
The elevator doors slid open and she walked inside almost pressuring herself as if she were going to be late to some meeting. The doors closed behind her and in no time she was already stepping outside to the lobby with her mind full of thoughts as usual. She noticed a few students making their way to their dormitories; others were already dressed in their cadet uniforms waiting in the lobby for their commander or instructor. She gave a slight fading smile since she was very proud of course; her students had always proven excellent.
Making her way towards the dormitory area she passed by the infirmary and noticed that Dr. Kadowaki was apparently gesturing for her to come. She gaze a puzzled look and as she reached the doctor this one spoke, "Quistis Trepe, just the person I was going to go look for. I have one of your students here with me…" Quistis's eyes went a bit alarmed as she was thinking what possible student could be in the infirmary, hopefully nothing grave. She followed the doctor in fast steps just to catch up to the doctors own normal speed, "Is the student alright? Who is it?" Dr. Kadowaki shook her head slightly and stopped at the entrance of the infirmary, then gave a gentle chuckle, "Calm down. He just seemed have a bad day…"
They both entered the infirmary and Dr. Kadowaki opened the curtains to the small room, "He will sure need rest…" Quistis blinked at the patient, Zell, and in some way she felt relieved it had not been someone else, but that was a mean thought so she forgot about it. "Zell Dintch, " the instructor crossed her arms slowly with a sigh as she walked up to the side of the bed, "Please don't tell me that you got in Seifer's way…" She knew that the ninety-five percent of the persons that came into the infirmary where sent here because of Seifer, and Hyne! She could not stand that.
Zell tried to sit up, but Kadowaki stopped him and motioned a no with her index finger, "You have to rest, boy, at least for today. Seifer did hurt you even if it seems mild." Quistis glanced to the doctor and then at her student, "You heard her, Zell…" The stubborn student gave a frustrated gesture and turned to his teacher, "But the test is today!" He actually pouted not really stated. "I know, but I am sure Cid will let you make it up, it was something unexpected," Quistis nodded towards Zell as Dr. Kadowaki walked towards her desk sat down. "But I am perfectly fine!" Zell was about to punch the air as he sat up, but cringed and plopped back down on the bed, "urgh…" He slowly placed his hands on his rib cage area and closed his eyes as Kadowaki gave a glare at him and then shake her head.
"No, Zell, you will stay here, I will explain this to Cid," She was not going to explain anything anymore. Quistis turned around and gave a respective nod to the doctor, then whispered, "How bad is he?" Kadowaki glanced at Zell, who had an arm on his forehead as he was still cringing, then she turned back to Quistis, "He does had an internal bruise on the rib bone, that is why I do not recommend him to move so much." Quistis gave a final glance to Zell before thanking Dr. Kadowaki and then stepping outside the place. It made her mad that Seifer simply acted like an animal wanting to destroy everything around him! "No… Animals don't do that…" She sighed and now she was to head to the dormitory to change having now no time to take a quick break.
* * *
Already changed, Quistis was sitting down at her personal desk on the corner with her legs crossed as she gave a little meditation. There was a few minutes left before she had to leave to meet with her students to go to the city. It will be me instead of Zell, I suppose it is better… that way I get to grade their behaviors easily, Quistis thought then shifting her memories to her student. Squall would not fail because she knew he had been a great student, in fact one of the bests, but that might also be her obsession kicking in. She shook her head lightly and glanced at the wall clock since it was time to leave.
She stood up dusting her black skirt lightly and then headed for the door. She was opening the door, but stop overhearing a conversation between Xu and the Headmaster directing perhaps to the office before heading to the lobby. "Is so sad how a person like her must be replaced. Sadly things need to be done and strictness is the first one of them, Xu…" Cid said in a quite silent tone. Quistis could not see what gestures were their using and then she could only catch certain words, like "yes, maybe, whom". She arched an eyebrow slightly and since she couldn't really put the phrase together she walked out of her room.
* * *
In the Lobby of the Garden, Quistis was standing near the location directory drifting a bit in her thoughts. She was concentration on what Dollet might come up with this time, the instructor was thinking of her being part of the group by replacing Zell, yet she would not be the squad leader because that would make the test a lot easier. The slow steps that echoed the hallway made Quistis come back to reality to turn and face one of her students, "Not so early this time, Squall," she implied giving a little giggle/chuckle. Squall shrugged his shoulders as he stopped before his teacher, "Whatever…"
She shook her head lightly with a tender smile still upon her lips raising her hand to her chin. Now again she spoke with a more authoritative tone, "Your partner for the mission, Zell Dintch, will not be able to attend so I am to be in the mission, " she felt actually happiness to be able to take care of her platonic love, her brotherly student. The lone wolf gave a cold nod and finally gave a small hint of talk, "I am glad…" Squall said and realized that this statement could give a turn around so he added, "that Zell will not come, that is. He is extremely loud…" Quistis felt as if she had to say: I am sorry… it cannot be changed. However, why would she need to say that?
Both Quistis and Squall lifted their gaze as they heard the stomping steps of the so-called squad leader. Seifer's blue eyes darted a very arrogant glare towards Quistis and then at Squall, just as that wicked grin came across his lips. Fuujin and Rajin followed him closely behind in short strides, of course Fuujin having that "I Will Kill You" expression written on her face while Rajin seemed a bit distracted. "So I get stuck with the weakest," Seifer said with a harsh laugh as he crossed his arms and as he was about to walk away, Cid came to the Lobby. "Good morning, students," he said silently nodding in a greeting manner, "as you already know this mission will take place in Dollet. I wish you the best of luck, now move along to the parking lot where you are to be taken from there."
Quistis nodded obediently before Cid left she explained of Zell's inciden to him. The Headmaster understood and then took his leave giving Quistis a chance to shoot a glance at Seifer that meant a scolding. "Seifer, you are the squad leader and remember harming other students while training is not something you ought to do," she said in a neutral tone, "in any case, I wish you both luck since I am just going to be more than likely a guide…" Seifer gave a smirk and then frowned towards the instructor, "Instructor… I hate it when people wish me luck, save those words for bad students who need them."
Quistis nodded solemnly or appeared to, when she spoke, "Alright then," she started to move along with Squall as she glanced over her shoulder, "good luck, Seifer." Seifer curved his fingers onto a fist glaring towards Quistis and waved his hand dismissingly at both Rajin and Fuujin as he started to follow his partners in stomping strides. All three headed to the parking lot where they where to be taken to Balamb City.
* * *
Balamb City was as usual calm and quiet with not many things to admire yet the bay was always lighted with the sun's reflection or the moon's. The students and the instructor stepped outside the vehicle, Quistis immediately started to head towards the hoover craft where Xu was expecting her already. Squall for a moment just stood there and awaited any order, but Seifer pushed him aside with his shoulder as this one was directing to the hoover craft as well, "Out of my way." Pushing other non-important people out of his way, Seifer made his way inside followed by Quistis and then Squall.
Inside, Xu stood now with her hands clasped together in front of herself while she glanced from person to person. She directed herself to the board and allowed her glance to fall on Seifer, "Good to see again, Seifer." Seifer did not glanced back; he just sat down not waiting for his comrade and instructor to do so first. "I just love this tests," Seifer snapped back with a quite neutral tone. Quistis was next to sit down across from Seifer and Squall besides him, they both turned to Xu, who was already starting to explain the situation in Dollet.
"…the Galdabian Army has emerged…" and she continued her long explanation, of course, losing Seifer in less than the middle of it. Quistis already had the idea and she knew what her students where thinking: Seifer was thinking of getting it over with and Squall… well, she more or less guessed that he was just going to do whatever the squad leader told him to. "…and that is when we SeeDs move out," Xu finished and she would have asked if they had any questions, but she had to leave that part to Quistis since Xu must retire.
Quistis followed Xu with her gaze until she disappeared and that is when she leaned back on her chair somewhat giving a random glance about. She moved her gaze upwards and then to Squall, who to her surprise, he shot a glance back. The tasteless glance of her student had been unexpected and this made a light red tint creep her cheeks, but she managed to stable that. "Instructor, the mission- test- will it-" Squall's words were broken by the harsh voice of Seifer's irritated self. "Go out and check what is going on," Seifer commanded as he looked away in a bored manner. Quistis glanced from Seifer to Squall a little unsure and nodded to her so to say favorite student.
Squall did not respond to either Quistis's nod or Seifer's command; he just stood up and left the small room. Quistis gave a gentle disappointed sigh since Seifer was showing attitude already, but her glance flew towards Seifer when he stood up. He didn't even said anything for what reason he was leaving, but she hardly cared although she would be responsible for any act of his. No, from the moment we touch that island I will be just a cadet following the squad leader's decision… She thought and for a brief moment, she closed her eyes.
In this little moment, she was wondering how this test would be going to come out. She actually didn't want Seifer to fail, this time, for two simple reasons: The first was because she thought it was a waste of potential, and second, it would mean she had to handle another year with the trouble maker. Now her mind was drifting to Squall, and slowly she tried to not think of anything anymore, but it was hard. Quistis crossed her arms and tried to order herself not to let her feelings for Squall, either being sisterly or platonic, come forward… at least in this mission. Little she knew that trying to push feelings aside is not very simple, specially for a person who can understand everyone's feelings with exception of her own.
* * *
The pod/craft landed abruptly on the beach and immediately opened itself to allow its passengers move outside to the coast. Quistis had been ready when Xu had come in the room and told her about their approach. Naturally, Seifer was the first one to jump outside and start to run towards the steps, "Don't fall behind!" Seifer laughed at this statement, which made Quistis frown and sigh patiently. Squall was next on moving out followed by the instructor, yet they both did not really run towards Seifer's position.
Seifer stopped as soon as he went up the steps and he glanced, with that intimidating glare of his, towards Quistis and Squall. Quistis thought she noticed him mumble something under his breath, but did not bother to let him know this, "We are to head -" And Quistis got interrupted by Seifer's uninterested tone, yet harshly continued the phrase for her, "to the center of Dollet and wait for the army to appear…" Seifer nodded towards Quistis and then started to glance at the street noticing two guards coming.
Squall was not glancing at anyone when this little conversation took place; in fact he had spotted the two Galbadian guards coming towards them a few moments before Seifer. As usual, Squall wouldn't bother to mention that they had been coming because he didn't seem to care, or did he? Quistis followed both Squall's and Seifer's gaze and as soon as she saw the guards closing to attack, she immediately took hold of her weapon. Both her students took a second longer than her to prepare to attack: Seifer, of course, making his way more to the front in order to get more "fun" out of beating this persons while Squall just took a step forward besides Quistis glancing absently at the upcoming soldiers.
Quistis was about to take a step forward to attack, but Seifer did not even wait for anyone to advance more, "Just leave this to me," Seifer commanded and grinned. He rapidly slashed at one of the guards with that wicked grin still upon his lips as if he were enjoying this damage, and Quistis knew he was. The other guard got somewhat distracted at this sudden action of Seifer, and at this Squall took the opportunity to analyze his opponent. As Squall was moving to hit the guard he felt the hard slam of Seifer's shoulder against his taking him off balance, "Working in team means getting out of my way!"
Quistis's expression shifted to a somewhat worried one, but her pale features showed something that could have been a glare or more. Seifer struck the other guard, making fall to the ground besides the other and then he down glanced at Squall with an intimidating gaze, although noticing Quistis's expression he smirked knowing that as much as she wanted to call his attention and scold him, she would not be able to do so in this trip. It was right that Quistis knew she was just a cadet now, yet she also knew Seifer would feel free to enjoy humiliating her as well as Squall.
As Seifer ran forward, Quistis glanced at Squall and started to walk towards him, she so much wanted to offer him her help and she desired him to accept it, but she was far cleverer to know that he wouldn't accept. Squall noticed that the instructor was heading towards him and he stood up slowly gazing over to Quistis. She thought he gave a nod, but she wasn't certain and she started to walk quite at a fast pace in order to catch up to Seifer. Squall tilted his head some as she walked past him and then obediently followed losing himself in the blank thoughts of his mind.
Finally arriving to the center of Dollet, the plaza, Quistis noticed Seifer having a little fight with another Galbadian soldier, but she just stood there and did nothing. Squall was about to perhaps charge at the soildier, but Quistis shot her hand out to block Squall's way. By the time she realized she had hold of Squall's arm, he glanced at her hand with a freezing gaze and was already moving his arm somewhat to lose himself from Quistis's grip having that cold expression still there. She was going to explain to Squall why she had stopped him, but at the same time Quistis's hand fell back besides her, Seifer stood besides both of them and let the tip of his gunblade to touch the cobblestone ground.
"I got rid of the last guard here, now we will wait for the army to pass by," Seifer's commanding tone shifted to a more frustrated one as he turned his back to them glancing upwards, "wait… what a boring word." Squall walked away for a moment to lean on the statue near by and rest his gunblade to his side not interested on what was going around maybe. Quistis gave a short smile as she noticed that retriever dog wagging his tail and crying at Seifer, probably wanting to be petted. She would have sent a light giggle, but she was not able to make it come forward so she looked away and started to drift.
* * *
"I promise I am going to be perfect!" A child Quistis said quite excitedly at the adult who was fixing the room, "And I am never going to cry, you know? And I am never going to be afraid, either!" Quistis wore a gray blue sweater that matched her gleaming, pale eyes. As usual, a long skirt was to combine with the sweater and she had chosen a complete gray one for the occasion. Almost all the time she wore long skirts and long sleeve shirts or sweaters to look mature and authoritative, not to mention restricted self.
The unknown silhouette of the person gave a hint of chuckling and continued fixing the dormitories without saying a word to the little blonde child. Little Quistis smiled and jumped down from her bed almost stumbling to keep her balance, "I am going to take care of the children whenever they need my help, I am going to teach them all I know and I have heard!"
The person seemed to glance at Quistis and nodded then continued back to fix the drawers, finally this person spoke, a female voice somewhat familiar, "And will you dress like all the other little girls like you whenever you fall in love?" The expression little Quistis gave was amusingly funny because it seemed she twitched at this question. Quistis put her hands on her hips narrowing her gaze as if what she was just asked frustrated her, "I am never going to be like all the other ones, I am unique and special! I have heard others say so… and… and yeah that." Quistis tried to avoid the other part of the question. Love. She was very young, but it was true that she was gifted, she was very advanced and mature for her age, and she always knew how to solve all sorts of puzzles. "What if you find someone you like? Would you stop wearing those long skirts and decide to go for a fancy dress?" The person shifted to a different drawer, but she was just a shadow anywhere she went never touched by the dim lit room.
She blinked as she had unsuccessfully avoided that theme, but as she answered she kept that precious proud gaze locked on the person even if this one wasn't looking, "I am not going to fall for anyone!" She pouted and the person gave a light laugh at this sudden statement, but said nothing else. "I know I won't because… because…" her little cheeks started to take a light pinkish color and she rapidly tried to find a excuse for the answer she just gave and found one, "because there is no one like me! There is no one reserved, quiet, calm, and hard-to-make-friends like me." Quistis nodded firmly feeling very happy about her answer even though she knew little that she was wrong… again.
The person gave a little laugh again and turned to Quistis, "So you will never fall in love? And if you find a person like that?" Quistis little cheeks turned red instead of keep their pink tone and she crossed her baby like arms across her chest, "First, there is no one like I just describe and I don't need to fall in love because… because it is dumb." The last word was said in a mockingly tone while her cheeks still burned with that crimson color, "I don't loose my time thinking about that, the people who think of that are the ones who still play with dolls!"
"Quisty, the people who play with dolls enjoy it as much as you enjoy thinking and observing," the unknown girl said from away. Quistis wriggled her nose as she heard that nickname and then corrected, "I don't like to be called like that, it sounds childish." The woman in the shadows giggled and shook her head lightly, "But you are a child, now come and meet the new kids that you will care for as you said."
Quistis nodded happily because since she was usually the older in the orphanage she enjoyed being bossy and act mature. She always knew what was going on in other's minds, but no one knew what was going in hers since she hardly ever said something about her thoughts. As far as most knew, she was a quiet and intelligent person with a lot of future. Quistis blinked as a random person opened the door an introduced her to the three kids about her age, "This is Quisty, and Quisty this are -"
"Quistis," she corrected before letting the random person continue meanwhile she studied the caring and happy girl in the yellowish dress. Shifting her glace to study the two male ones then trying her best to look proud of being herself. "Yes, Quistis, this is Selphie," the person gestured towards Selphie, who gave a small wave back. "This is Zell," the kid nodded a few times in a hyperactive kind of way and stopped as they mentioned the other one's name, "and Squall." That last kids only shoved his hands into his pants' pockets and glanced lazily towards Quistis, who blinked and her gaze fell on Squall's cold eyes, she narrowed her gaze a little because she felt, from the very first moment, that he would make her cry even if she had promised she wouldn't, but she wasn't sure why.