Destati Fatali

Notes: Hiiiii o, thought I'd try to write a Final Fantasy fic for a change. Loosely based/inspired on Shakespeare's tragedy- "Hamlet". As mentioned, this is a crossover so expect... unusualness occurring. I wanted to try something different Other than that please enjoy and read & review, I'll love you forever and ever.

Special thank you to Gord, Loki Flamewing, The Truth, RenaLanford65

Also to Teri for her inspiration and patience XP.

Disclaimer: I don't own anything, ;; this fiction is done for entertainment purposes only.

Warnings: AU. Some OOC.


Act 2, Sc.i

Balamb Garden: Main Balcony

Quistis left her office, locking the door behind her. Her blonde hair was pulled up as usual. These days there seemed to be a renewed dullness in the garden. Or maybe it was because graduation was so soon...

Walking over to a balcony, she allowed her thoughts to drift.

Shortly after Seifer and the others left, Squall retired from the cafeteria, searching for some peace and privacy. Making a mental note to enquire Seifer about his family when he got back, the brown-haired youth sighed.

His blue-grey eyes caught sight of his favourite instructor making her way across the hall to the balcony.

Squall was watching Quistis, before he decided to approach her, although he could never voice it, he did appreciate her concern most of the time.

Quistis jumped and turned around. She smiled fondly at Squall. She bowed her head slightly. "Hello, Squall." she greeted softly. She couldn't admit it, not out-loud at least but her fondness for the prince went very deep... how deep, she didn't try to examine.

It was better not to.

Squall nodded, "I wanted to thank you for your... concern." the prince said nodding his head as well, he ignored the fact she was startled on his arrival and took a place by her side on the balcony. "The graduation is next week."

She nodded. "Yes, I'm very proud of you, Squall. You've progressed very well. I can only take pride in how well my students become and hope it's my aid that's helped them." She tilted her head. "How do you feel about graduation, Squall?"

The prince sighed, and for a minute he considered to forget replying... however, during the last few months the instructor's concern and dedication outside of class had wormed their way into his heart, and he couldn't deny to feel a bond of friendship with the teacher.

She deserved a reply.

"Thank you..." he muttered hiding his eyes behind his brown hair.

"It's just... I'm not looking forward to the graduation."

Quistis smiled inwardly. Her attempts at conversation had for once proved fruitful. "Afraid of returning to the duties of being a real Prince?" She asked softly.

He hated it when people read him like that. First Seifer... now Instructor Trepe...

Nodding numbly the Prince sighed, "I'm not... fit to lead."

I would much rather be hiding away somewhere.

"But I don't have a choice."

Quistis wanted to reach out and place a hand on his shoulder to show her support but Squall wasn't one to appreciate being smothered. "I disagree greatly. You're better off ruling then most. Your desires aren't power and fame. I feel in my heart that you could be a better king, a fairer king..." she sighed softly. "Its in you, waiting for you to find it. In time you'll see. Many kings, the greatest ones, didn't believe their potential."

For a second, a shadowy smile lit the prince's features, only to dissipate in an instant. "I appreciate your confidence Instructor,"

Well? What else could he say?

After all, Squall was not quite in agreement with her words, even if Quistis' words were sincere. Being a king was just not in his ... abilities. After all, his uncle was much keener on ruling, leading, and diplomacy. Why couldn't the crown go to him then?

Quistis sighed and turned her back to the view, crossing her arms over her chest, she sighed, "I'm a bit sad as well. It's hard being a teacher. You bond wit students who leave and most never return for a simple hello..." the blond whispered.

Squall didn't say anything; he would probably be one of those. After all, being a Prince had its minus points, he would have to spend a lot of time dealing with the countries problems...

His social life would then revolve around a bunch of tedious old men, or opportunist trying to suck up to him because of his rank.

Yippie.

Now that sounded like an 'ideal' life.

Quistis was not surprised and took a deep breath to steady herself. "I guess you'll be one of them, huh?" She tightened her grip around herself. Could she stand never seeing Squall again? She clenched her jaw.

"Well, I guess you can tell I'm in agreement with you...." she whispered, looking away from him.

Squall didn't move, he'd rather not answer that question.

It sounded rhetorical. Besides, who knew, he may choose to keep contact.

Quistis' mind was so brilliant, she could certainly work wonders in court... as an advisor.

"... It's who I am."

He couldn't change the fact he was the future king.

"Fine." she whispered softly.

However, that wouldn't change the fact that the instructor had won the Prince's trust, and Hyne knew that Squall would be needing all the advice he could get. Taking decisions had never been his forte, and being King implied a lot of decision making.

It was her who broke the silence again.

"Will you miss it here?" she refrained from asking if he'd miss her... that's she truly wished to know. But her professional attitude kept her from going so far. 'He's just a student.' Her mind chided.

Squall blinked, feeling indecision wash over him, "I... I guess so." the prince leaned slightly back, and shook his head. Words were not his forte either... what irony. And he was supposed to rule over people?

Impossible.

"It has been a worthwhile experience, Instructor."

Quistis smiled. That had to be enough for now. She could only ask for so much. Maybe... Maybe at graduation she'd try again. But for now... "I understand." she said softly and straightened up and faced Squall.

"Well, your highness, I must agree. It's been a pleasure having you in my class." she looked at his profile... she saw it in him. She felt it in herself. Before her was a king. She only hoped her intuition hadn't failed her in that judgement.

He would make a great king, would he not?

Shaking her head, Quistis brushed away any doubts that flicked across her mind.

Squall turned to the blond and bowed his head politely. He disliked being called highness... but it was inevitable. He might as well learn to accept it now.

Though it wasn't easy.

He would be king. Hyne only knew when.

"If you excuse me Instructor Trepe." And with that the brown-haired youth turned away from the balcony back inside, the idea of resting in his dorm suddenly seemed appealing. Especially since Seifer was probably still out with Rinoa, it was only late afternoon.


Act 2, Sc.ii

Esthar: Royal Palace, Courtyard

"You concern yourself with trivial matters Lord Braska." Seymour waved his hand impatiently. "Matters have all been arranged for everyone's.... best benefit." The blue haired man paused in order to add a dramatic emphasis so his words.

"I know that Lord Seymour but plot—"

"Who said anything about such treacherous means?"

Braska shifted unhappily and nodded, "No one my lord..."

"Good." The guado tapped his chin thoughtfully, "Then all will continue as foreseen."

"Wouldn't it be wiser to wait—?"

Seymour shook his head, "My dear friend, we've been doing enough waiting." His glare turned threatening, "Unless, of course, you mean to back out now?"

The High Priest shook his head vigorously, "No, indeed not, my Lord. You know my family have pledged to serve you." Bowing his head, Braska waited, holding his breath, until Seymour touched his shoulder.

Letting out the breath he'd been holding, the High Priest looked up again. However, the look given to him by the blue-haired man was enough. Turning around, his royal robes making a rustling sound, the King's half-brother replied: "I hope you remember that, High Priest Braska of Almasy."

"I really hope you do."

Seymour's eyes flicked up to catch sight of Queen Edea's delicate frame sitting near the fountains. The black-haired woman gave them a warm smile and a polite bow of her head, which was returned with an elegant bow from Braska and—

The regal man beside the high priest returned the queen's unknowing smile, with a predatory one.

Power could corrupt anyone.


Act 2, Sc.iii

Esthar: Royal Palace, Private Chambers

Delicate violets were placed in a vase beside her desk, the woman rose pushing the wooden chair back. A light scrapping sound echoed across the chambers along with the soft jingle of a bell.

Lady Yuna stretched rubbing her hands softly. Most of the day had been spent up in her room studying literature, plays and art.

Things suited for a lady.

Things that her father and brother approved of.

Her multi-coloured eyes turned to the window glancing at the gardens below. One of the reasons she loved this room was the privileged view of the gardens. Especially now, all the flowers were blossoming. Exotic flowers that needed little water.

It was truly a spectacular sight.

But the blooming flowers carried with them the sense of time. Though living here seemed to freeze time, the changing vegetation was the proof of time.

Time that came and went, but never stayed.

It would be time soon.

The young lady was already anticipating her older brother's return...

Sharp knocking jerked Yuna from her thoughts and she shut the book on top of her desk before calling, "Yes?"

Slowly the heavy wooden door opened, revealing a large individual standing at the entrance. The sight of the creature standing before it would have intimidated most, however Yuna was not one of them. "Khimari." She greeted with a bow.

Grunting in acknowledgement the tall, feral creature spoke slowly, "Lord Braska, Lord Seymour and His Royal Highness ask for you milady."

Oh.

Nodding softly Yuna checked her reflection on the mirror, trying to smooth a bit the unruly locks of hair. After giving her clothes a satisfactory check, she smoothed her long skirt and elegant top, the long sleeves flowing as she rested her arms by her side.

It was much more comfortable to wear her short skirt, but her father had always made it quite clear what he expected from her. Besides she was meant to appear before the King and his brother. It would be quite unforgivable to wear anything else.

And off she went, escorted by the Ronso guardian to the courtroom and the great hall.


Act 2, Sc.iv

Esthar: Royal Palace, Great Hall

Laguna was resting his chin on the back of his hand. Annoyance was written all over his face. "Why must you summon the poor girl, brother? She's probably busy."

Smiling patiently, Seymour replied, "I want her to be witness to this, after all, it's quite an honour what lord Braska wants to propose."

"I suppose so—"

Knocking interrupted the three men from continuing their discussion, the Great Hall's doors opened, Khimari holding them. Lady Yuna's delicate frame could be discerned as she stepped into the hall.

After taking a couple of paces towards them, she bowed deeply, her skirt flowing neatly around her as she rose up again.

"Please dear, don't be so formal." The king flashed her a reassuring smile.

Yuna returned the smile and nodded, "Good afternoon, if I may enquire the reason for this summoning?"

Smirking slightly, the guado shook his head, "All business then Lady Yuna? How very ... efficient." Though his tone made it sound more like an insult. "You study too hard, after all you are still young. A blossoming violet." He said reaching out and playfully tugging her blue beads.

As his elongated fingers made contact with the bead, a soft chiming sound was produced. "And so very musical."

"That's enough." Laguna cut shortly, for some reason, Seymour's exchange with the girl made him nervous. It was almost as if he were about to pounce... of course he wouldn't dare do that with High Priest Braska here, would he?

Paranoid? He?

Maybe more than a little.

Seymour pulled back, looking very grave, "My apologies, it's just I never noticed how fair she's become, so pure and... radiant." The man stopped sensing the King's glare.

The king gave another weary sigh before speaking up, "Lady Yuna, it is coming to a time where your future comes into question."

"Your father was very preoccupied with you, since you have rejected several suitors. However, new circumstances have called to our attention that there is no need for you to marry against your will." Laguna gave a smile.

"And he has graciously given his consent, so with your approval now..." the black-haired man nodded, "With your approval, I hope you will consider the offer, but I'll allow Lord Almasy to explain."

Braska nodded then looked at his only daughter, though he didn't seem pleased.

It was far from it.

"I have decided to allow you, my dear daughter, to become the next High Priestess of Esthar, at the service of the future king, Prince Squall."

Shock.

Yuna just stared at her father with disbelief, then at the King. It took several minutes for her to compose enough to speak again, "I will accept if that is what your lordship wants."

Laguna laughed, "You really have a priceless daughter Braska. No need to be so formal, you can refuse if you wish."

"N-no!" The woman shook her head, biting her lip she glanced at her father, "But if your lordship would rather have me marry..."

"Nonsense!" Laguna waved his hand impatiently. "You have the talent Lady Yuna, and the loyalty a king requires from his High Priest—"

At the mention of loyalty, Braska shifted slightly.

"Or Priestess. Your dedication and determination is also commendable Lady, my son should be honoured to have you in his court."

It was a sincere compliment and Yuna smiled warmly in return.

The king always had such a way with people.

"I thank you, and gladly accept, I shall try to not disappoint you or Prince Squall."

"Then this is decided—"Yuna bowed in front of Laguna's throne, the king reached forward grabbing the girl's arm and pulling her up, he also took the opportunity to whisper— "No matter what happens. Promise me... you'll see this through."

The fierceness of his words caught her by surprise, but the future high priestess nodded, "I... promise."

Braska and Seymour, who had been unable to overhear that, glanced at each other with questioning looks.

Outside, the rain clouds had gathered... and for a change, a storm raged outside.


Act 2, Sc.v

Balamb Garden: Squall's Room

An unending storm had started the afternoon yesterday and had continued all night until today. Yawning sleepily, the Prince turned on his side with the intention of getting another couple of minutes in bed.

In Balamb such a storm was unusual. It made Squall uneasy.

Very unsettled, as if something was occurring, something important, something he should know.

Sleeping some more seemed like a likely option until his dorm room slammed opened.

Squall, very careful of his privacy turned with a scowl to the intruder, only to have his face frozen with surprise.

It was Seifer, and he was soaked, from top to bottom. His face was twisted with pain—not physical but...

"He's dead..."

The stone mask in which Squall hid faded, "What?"

"He's dead," Seifer repeated numbly, "King Laguna passed away last night."

End of Act 2


Notes: ;; Weee, the plot thickens... the ending was a bit sudden, but... it just felt right to stop there...

Please read and review

Gord- Yesh odd pairings are a lot of fun. bows Thank you very much for reviewing.

Loki Flamewing- Waii, thanks for giving the story a chance, it is an odd plot, but I hope it won't disappoint. bows Thank you for the review.

The Truth- Yay feels loved Arigato

RenaLanford65- Oh definitely! Final Fantasy leaves a lot of area for fanfic writers to explore. I'm a sucker for AU tho. One can just see Squall as a Prince, ne? glomps Thank you for reviewing.