Kakumei Muyo

By Harunomiya

Disclaimer:Revolutionary Girl Utena and its characters belong to Be-PaPas,

Chiho Saito. Shogakukan, Shokaku Iinkai and TV Tokyo.

Tenchi Muyo and its characters belong to Hitoshi Okuda, AIC and Pioneer.

Chapter 7: Currency Situation

Utena sat on the couch with her legs curled underneath her. It was a rare time where she was able to sit still. It was also a Saturday and had time for herself. She could be out doing something having some down time, see a movie, go to the arcade or something. But no, being the masochist that she was, she had a newspaper spread in her lap and a pen in her hand. To be more precise, the classifieds section. Here she was spending her Saturdays looking for a job.

As if she didn't have enough to deal with already. School, tutoring, kendo practice and more practice with the Masaki men. Hell, why not just add a job to the mix.

Yep, a masochist.

The paper rustled loudly in the rare silence of the living room as Utena turned the page.

Utena sighed, it's not like she wanted to add a job to take up what precious free time she had. But it was essential that she not become dependent on the Masaki clan for everything. Staying in their home pro bono was generous enough. She wanted to be financially independent, have some money saved. Once she's learned what she needed to learn, Utena would need to move on.

The very thought made her sad, having grown found of everyone. but it will happen eventually.

Eventually.

She circled another promising ad.

Not only that, the holidays were coming soon and she wanted to have money to buy gifts for all of them. They had all welcomed her into their unusual family. Not only as a guest but a welcomed friend as well. The Masaki household was not only related by blood ties but of ties of friendship that were of a greater bond. One could not help who was your family, but one could choose those who made up that family.

Utena only having her Aunt Yurika, had come to value the Masaki clan highly and the sense of belonging that they gave her. Family was very important to her. But so was her sense of self.

Her independent self.

Utena tapped the tip of the pen against her lips as she scanned the paper. If, no, when she found a job she knew that the constant commuting was going to be hell. Such are the drawbacks of living in a secluded area. Well, that doesn't really matter, as long as it's a weekend job.

She circled another waitress wanted ad. It's not like she had a choice. She had no work experience and has yet to graduate.

I don't even have a resume, Utena thought dryly. Even if I did, what will I write? She wondered.

The pink-haired woman began to scribble on the newspaper, the light scratching of pen and paper. The pen stilled and looked over what she had written.

Skills: -an all-around athelete Accomplishments: -can walk and feed myself

-a proficient duelist -survived insane duels

-can kick butt -still breathing

-know esoteric marital arts -Sane?

She frowned. Nothing that could get me an office job. Probably a good thing, I'd end up going postal, the yongster thought darkly.

"What ya doin'?" Washu asked as she peered over Utena's shoulder, startling Utena out of her morbid thoughts. The genius was busy drinking out of a juice box looking for the entire world like the child she pretended to be.

Another busy night in the lab, Utena thought.

"I just realized that I'm as about as useful as a sack of old monkeys." Utena said with a wan smile as she held up the newspaper.

Washu frowned. "You? What nonsense." She jumped over the couch and sat besides Utena. She then snatched the paper away from Utena and scanned its contents. Her eyebrows shot up. "I see..." She tossed the paper aside.

"I'm not suited for the corporate world."

"Why do you need a job? It's not necessary."

"I have to," Utena answered. "I can't stay here forever," she added quietly.

The brilliant woman wanted to argue the point but found herself at a loss for words. How can she? Utena was right. Her heart clenched at the thought. How is it that Utena managed to get so close to her heart so quickly? She wondered surprised, because it was true. Utena was like a daughter to her. Was her daughter dispite the technicalities. Thanks to her, she had a better relationship with Ryoko.

There wasn't anything that Washu wouldn't do for her. Would she want something, Washu wouldn't deny her anything. All Utena needed to do was ask. But Utena wasn't like that, it wasn't in her nature.

Washu stood and started to pace in front of the couch, chin in hand, eyes thoughtful. She turned and retraced her steps. "Well you might not be suited for a white collar job, yet." She said, placing enough emphases on the word. Washu continued, "But if you're truly determined... I can use your skills."

Utena's eyes brightened, "I'm your girl."

"Hear out my proposition," Washu cautioned. It was clear that Utena will have to work on her habit of rushing into things without due consideration.

"It doesn't matter. I trust you." The petite scientist saw the clarity of those blue eyes and a perfect trust that was staggering. "How can I be of service?" Utena inquired.

"I need a guinea pig."

Utena blinked as she looked at the brilliant woman before her. She felt the stirrings begin in the center of her core, Utena valiantly tried to contain it. A full bellied laugh escaped her lips. She recalled something she said to Ryoko, that Washu would never use her as a guinea pig. I guess I was wrong, go figure. Oh, what the hell... A grin filled with amusement spilled across her face. "You got one."

Washu clapped her hands together. "Good!"

"Washu, I still need to get a job," she warned.

The petite woman stared at Utena with an incredulous expression. Does she honestly think I'm not going to pay her? She opened her mouth to say something but snapped it shut. Her thoughts were racing in her head. No, it's not about that. Washu studied her; the stubborn set of her jaw, and shoulders straight with resolve. this is something vital to Utena, and that is her sense of self.

The red-head inclined her head in concession. "Fine," she walked away from Utena's happy grin and snatched up the paper she tossed aside. Washu spoke over her shoulder at the girl. "But you let mommy make the calls for you," her voice brooked for no disagreement.

"Thanks, Mom," Utena was pleased.

Her green eyes sparkled brightly at being called mom. It was still affecting to her, and it never failed to move her. It was something she treasured greatly. Having walked only a few feet away, Washu spun and pointed the paper at Utena and shook it at her.

"Enjoy yourself while you can," Washu said as she grinned evilly, the playful mischief in her eyes belied the ominous words. "You work for me now."

Utena simply nodded pretending to appear terrified. All she needs is the maniacal Mwaha hahaha laugh, Utena thought.

Washu didn't disappoint, as sudden laughter burst forth as she walked away, pleased and wicked.

It was later that day that Washu appeared and handed her a slip of paper with an address written on it. Taking the bus there was a long trip but as she sat in the seat, moving the muscles in her legs (to keep them from falling asleep) Utena consoled herself that this was just a weekend job only.

She got off on her stop and began to search for the address on the paper. She was glad that she had enough time to look around for the place without being in a hurry. Walking down the street, Utena caught sight of her reflection in the windows of the buildings she strolled by. She wore a pair of dark blue, denim jeans, a snug long sleeve white Tee and a gray hoodie that was partially zipped. Her hands were tucked in the sweater pockets. Her hair as usual flowed free.

Good enough for an interview as a waitress, she thought.

Eventually she seemed to have found what she was looking for, but Utena couldn't believe that this was the place. It just couldn't be. She fumbled around for the piece of paper and double checked the address. Gods, there was no mistake. This is the place, she thought with a groan. She shoved the paper back into her pocket. There were two women ushering strangers into the establishment with what seemed genuine enthusiasm. As she neared closer she was able hear what the two girls were saying.

"Come and try our lattes," a girl cried, black hair tipped with purple brushed her shoulders.

"Cappuccinos are great too, with a slice of pie!" the other had brown hair that was woven in a thick braid.

"Karaoke nights!"

"Fun and friendly service for everyone!" the girl with braid chirped.

A group of guys were walking by, "How friendly?" he asked in a tone that was lecherous. His two friends laughed and the girl blushed embarrassed.

"Pervert!" cried the other girl, anger crossing her face.

They laughed harder.

Utena couldn't help herself; she walked in their mist, purposely bumped into the guy and took him off balance. She made a show of fumbling around looking for something in her pockets, pulled the paper with over the top gestures and popped him in the nose and he fell to the floor

"Shit!" he cried as tried to stop the blood, worried that his nose was broken.

"Hey! Watch it bit-urgh!" one of his buddies shouted angrily but then suddenly was on the floor as well, clutching his mouth. Utena purposely dropped the paper in front of him and bent over picked up. Standing abruptly, her head hit his jaw, causing him to bite his tongue.

Utena plastered a look of confusion over her features. She looked genuinely surprised and innocent of wrongdoing. She gazed down at the fallen men on the floor.

"I think you should help your friends," voice filled with light concern, her blue eyes stared into the other one still standing. Her face was shadowed in the pink tresses but even then, the utter coldness in her eyes let the guy know that none of what happened was an accident. The waif of a girl knew what she was doing, and got away with it.

"Y-yeah," the man stuttered as he practically dragged his friends to their feet and away before they did something even more stupid. They glared at her but Utena dismissed them completely from her mind

Now that that was taken care of Utena turned her attention back to more important things. Think about the money. You need currency in your current situation. So she told herself and then smiled at the thought. Washu, you stinker.

"Thanks for the help," the cute girl with the braid said, as she bowed.

"Huh?" Utena pretended to be clueless, as her brow shot up in a look of surprise.

"You knew what you were doing," said the other, her voice held no accusation, merely sating the obvious.

"Well..." she didn't know what to say. Utena wasn't a good liar anyway.

"No one could be so clueless and still accidentally kick butt," the girl persisted, eyes holding Utena's own.

A smile came to Utena's face and thought, You haven't met Mihoshi.

Taking the lovely smile as acknowledgement, the girls smiled in return.

"Can we help you?"

"I'm looking for a job," Utena flatly stated, as she handed over the paper with the cafe's address.

"We've been expecting you!" Braid-girl said. "You're hired!"

"Just like that?"

"Just like that," confirmed the other older girl.

"We need an extra hand and you'll look absolutely stunning in character. Shinobe Sakura from the Leaf Village."

"No, with moves like that she'll be perfect as the fifth Hokage!" the other pointed out.

Seeing the look of one ready to bolt, each girl grabbed Utena by an arm and almost dragged her in. There was no way they were going to let her get away. Help was hard to come by.

Inside was nothing like she expected. There were no uberfans dressed up as their favorite anime characters. They were just your average Joe and Jane littered across the place. She scanned the place and saw that they were just enjoying their drinks and having conversations and what not. If anyone was dressed up it was the café's servers.

Posters lined the walls with images and anime titles that anyone in their right mind would know: Sailor Moon, DBZ, Oh! My Goddess, Gundam Wing. Yet there were others not as renown but well liked. In fact, some anime was being played for the costumer's pleasure.

They ushered her into the back room as they waved at people along the way. Utena was slightly embarrassed by the amused smirks, and sympathetic looks of said people. She had a nagging suspicion that this was the only way they recruited the hired help.

Eventually they let her go and handed her a costume.

"Here, try this on and be ready to start," the girl with the braid said.

"Okay. By the way, I'm Tenjou Utena." She said and watched the girl blush faintly.

"Sorry, I'm Lee Kiki."

"I'm Shizu Kira," the short-haired girl volunteered. She pointed at the screen when she noticed Utena's discomfort. Utena stepped behind it and started to change. "Sorry for the rush, but we need the help and well, everyone that has come by hasn't given the place a chance." Kira's voice was apologetic.

"Well, I guess I can help," Utena said resigned, from the other side. They really needed the help and I need the money. Utena rationalized. She peered over the screen and noted that Kiki looking at her funny. Utena frowned. Wait, I seen that look before... Better nip it in the bud. "All I ask is that you don't put me in a dress." The tone in Utena's voice left no question that she was resolute in her demand. There were just some things she wouldn't wear.

Kiki actually pouted, dreams of dressing Utena as a Magical Girl in frilly dresses dashed, while Kira appraised her with speculation, somehow she wasn't surprised.

She nodded her agreement. She needed a waitress more than another girl in a dress.

When she went home, she sought Washu in her lab and glared at her. Washu couldn't blame her. Sometimes Utena needed to be rattled, taken out of her comfort zone.

"So how was your first day at work?" Washu asked, ignoring Utena's look of displeasure.

"You could have warned me," Utena complained, looking slightly disgruntled.

"Ah, but what would have been the fun in that?" Washu asked with a grin, as she continued to work on her holotop.

"They dress up!"

"No! really? I thought that was the point."

Utena did not miss the sarcasm. "Well, yeah," Utena replied elegantly. "Why there of all places, though?"

"Because, it looks like fun," Washu answered reasonably, "and the pay is good. Give the place a shot, you might be surprised." She grinned mischievously. "Besides, I have these cute pictures of you," Washu said as she whipped out her floating computer.

Pictures? Utena wondered, confused. What pictures?

She pressed a key and before her loomed Utena wearing a costume with the works, looking uncomfortable. "You look so cute!" Washu beamed with hearts in her eyes.

"W-where did you get that?" she managed to speak.

"I had you to keep an eye on you," Washu commented with a grin. A funny looking robot appeared floating at Washu's right, looking like a funky space camera. "I was afraid that you would bolt."

Utena paled. "Just don't show that to Ryoko," she pleaded, she knew that it was a hopeless request. "Not yet at least."

Washu's grin widened considerably. Utena was well aware of where Ryoko's wicked sense of humor came from.

"Of course not," agreed an offended Washu, to Utena's relief. The girl-prince let out her breath, only to freeze up at her next words. "I haven't nearly enough pictures of you for the family album or of Ryoko for that matter."

Utena face faulted to the floor amidst Washu's laughter.

The pain where she smacked the floor was present but her mind was elsewhere. Oh, she was in deep. She groaned against the floor.

She wasn't at the mercy of the famed mad scientist that everyone feared. That would have been a kinder fate.

No, it was far worse...

She was at the mercy of-

A mother.

- - -

She was working for several weekends already and so far, Kiki had respected her one condition for working with them. That was not to say that Kiki was silent about it. She was constantly sighing, saying how it was a pity that Utena was so adverse to dresses. That under her skillful needle, she would fashion for her a gown fit for a princess.

Utena scowled. She was not, nor ever will be-

A princess.

Can't have Washu getting her hands on an picture like that.

Utena was wiping the tables down and she reflected on her part time job. The job paid well all things considered that she needed to dress up as. But she really enjoyed talking with the people that came and went into the café. The theme days were fun too. Dressing up as various characters had its appeal. What a better way to be able to be someone else for a few hours. Today's theme day was Samurai Showdown. Her character, selected by Kira was-no surprise-Charlotte Christine Colde, the French noblewoman from Versailles. She was wearing, the trademark white breastplate with a dusky rose colored tunic lined with light pink, along the edges. The tunic brushed against her calves, she was wearing black knee length boots. They matched the above elbow-length leather gloves. The items was tied together by the matching sword belt was fastened around her slim waist and held the epee.

She had to be extremely impressed with the attention to detail that all the costumes and props received. She kept her hand on the hilt of the sword, making sure that she didn't bump into the tables or patrons. For all the authenticity, it was a hassle carrying the orders to the people who waited without spilling anything. It was times like this that Utena was grateful for her training, finding it quite ironic to have it applied in such a fashion.

She did get a lot of complements on how well she looked as the dashing Charlotte Colde. She received such praise with a smile and turned it aside in favor to Kiki's faithfulness to character detail. What they did was quite admirable and was glad that she took the job. To them it was not a job when you enjoy what you do. But she needed to get use to the things they made her wear.

Utena made her way home, slightly tired from the days rush at the café shop. Weekend shifts were the most hectic and demanding. Still, her training helped her hold up with the stress of the job. Her coworkers were constantly amazed by how well she coped with the stress with astounding resilience. Home was well in sight and Utena was glad. Reaching the door, she called out a light greeting as she removed her shoes.

The little cabbit was the first to greet her as Ryo-oh-ki meowed happily. Knowing what the small creature was after, Utena withdrew the bag filled with carrots and knelt as she held it out. "Is this what you want?" she asked, knowing the answer.

Ryo-oh-ki's eyes sparkled at the sight and nuzzled up against Utena with affection. Laughing, Utena let her have the bag. Off she went no doubt to Sasami.

Sasami's cheery face appeared next and the younger girl was as usual wearing an apron, no doubt cooking up another wonderful meal.

"You're home!" she exclaimed with genuine pleasure.

"Where's everybody?" Utena asked, strangely unsettled by the silence of the house.

"Everyone's at the shrine," Sasami answered as she opened the bag of carrots for the cabbit. "You spoil her too much," the princess accused with no true censure in her tone. Utena merely shrugged.

"What can I say?"

"Are you hungry?" Sasami asked.

"I'll wait for dinner. I'll be in Washu's lab if you need me." Utena said as she strolled pass the younger girl.

Walking into Washu's lab was slightly unnerving to Utena, a hang up she wanted to rid herself of. For now she'll just have to deal. She was here to do a job.

Knocking on the door, entrance was given. Knowing that Washu was already aware of her, Utena still called out her presence, it was just plain good manners on her part.

"Mommy Washu, I'm here."

"Utena! Good! Come in!" Washu's voice carried her enthusiasm. The door closed behind Utena and out came Washu, excited as a kid. "You're just in time to help me test out my latest project!" she blinked up at Utena, green eyes curious. "How in the world do you show up when needed most?" Washu asked.

Utena was unsure how to answer, but she tried. "A knack, I guess. So what do you have for me today?" she gave Washu a quick hug.

"First, I'll need you to suit up," Washu began as she handed over a body suit. Curious and wanting to ask, Utena held her tongue, knowing that Washu will tell her when ready. "Meanwhile you change and I'll set up."

She knew that Washu was going her privacy to do what she must without asking questions and for that she was grateful. Once she donned the body suit, she felt it cling to her body like a second skin. The suit color was black, lined with pink that matched Utena's hair.

"Today we're going to have you test my cockpit simulator, the suit will gauge you're reactions and monitor your well being."

"Okay."

The scientist let her to another part of the lab that held an imposing door and at her touch opened without noise. Stepping inside, there was nothing but empty space. Utena looked around and nothing.

"Here is where we'll test it. Where there will be no interruptions." She snapped her fingers and a huge piece of machinery rose from the floor. Without hesitation, Utena climbed into the seat and settled in. That in itself was not hard, since the seat molded itself about her body for optimal comfort.

Washu admired the blithe manner that Utena faced things, without fear and a great degree of curiosity. Ah, the great motivator for the inquisitive mind, Washu thought empathetically as she handed a helmet over to the girl, who took it without question. "That will help monitor your brain wave activity."

Utena secured the helmet in place and lowered the visor. The cockpit was then enclosed and for a moment there was blackness. Utena fought the panic that began to rise, drawing on the meditative training that Sensei Katsuhito taught her. Doing so helped her keep her calm. Seconds later, the lights flared to life in the cockpit and a second later, Utena heard Washu's voice, coming from within the helmet.

"Utena," the slightly distorted voice flowed into her right ear. "Can you hear me?"

"Loud and clear," Utena responded, feeling somewhat like a fighter pilot. She saw images in front of the screen before her, green crosshairs locked onto a target.

"Good. Let's begin with a run down over the system's controls. In front of you is the man piloting controls that allow you to move around with ease in any direction-" Utena took hold of the stick that Washu mentioned. "Go ahead and test it out," Washu encouraged and in doing so, Utena saw the target on the screen moved as she wished it to. "There are red buttons on both the top of the stick and near your trigger finger. The former is for heavy artillery and the ladder, standard weapons ammunition."

"Cool," Utena couldn't help saying, and heard Washu's chuckle in response in her ear.

Washu continued her instruction. "Under your right foot are the accelerator and the left the decelerator, which control the speed of your motion."

"Got it."

"For today, I just want you to become familiar with the controls for the next hour. After that, I'll have you shoot at some targets next time."

Utena face fell. She was looking forward to this. "You're the boss," she said at last.

"Let's get to work!"

It was not long after that both Washu and Utena emerged from the lab, not willing to miss Sasami's dinner. Utena was excited with the simulator and truly disappointed that she hadn't more time in it. Washu saw this in the girl's face and she was even tempted to continue on, but she had to take into account Utena's well being and not push her so hard.

Yet.

"Wow, that sure was fun!" said Utena as she brushed her fingers in her pink hair.

Washu nodded, her face beaming. "I'm so happy to see my latest invention perform so well under such conditions!"

Utena looked down at her. "That's good. And another thing," said Utena with a slight frown. "Why was the target able to move and react so fast?"

"Scientific genius, that's how!" replied Washu proudly. "The most advanced body control mechanisms and sensory feedback circuitry in the universe! The suit gauged your natural abilities and the target adjusted itself accordingly. You know, to give you a challenge."

"Now she tells me," grumbled Utena with a grin. It was challenging enough, Utena agreed. It was enough to get her as excited as Washu and invigorated in the process.

"The suit is nothing short of amazing!" continued Washu.

"Yes, I'm very impressed." I'm going to like testing out her inventions, Utena thought.

Washu let out a happy sigh. "Seeing one's work function without a flaw -- oh, such joy! Such bliss! Such utter fulfillment!" She got out a handkerchief and dabbed her eyes. "You acquitted yourself very well, Utena, for the first test!"

"Thanks," Utena said warmed by her words.

"Remember, mums the word," Washu said, pressing her index finger to her lip.

"I thought it was Mommy?" Utena asked looking as innocent as she can be. Washu shook her heard with a faint smile playing on her lips. Utena was feeling playful.

"Hey Sasami!" Washu greeted as they walked into the dinning room. "What scrumptious meal did you conjure up now?"

"Washu! Utena!" beamed the second princess of Jurai. "You have to eat to find out!"

"Oh how I love to unravel mysteries!" Washu quipped, causing Sasami to giggle.

- - -

Months later...

Utena was working at her weekend job, the husle and bussle was enough to keep anyone busy.

Today's theme was Gundam Wing. Her character, selected by Kira as always, was Reelina Peacecraft in her role as the Ambassador.

Kiki was dressed as the stoic Lady Une. After all, the girl had the glasses and rich brown hair to pull it off. Kira was Noin her hair styled to suit the role; her dark hair fell across an eye. She gave it a twist with those red-tipped ends.

The rest of the staff was also dressed. Some were the Gundam pilots, Dorothy Catalina, Sally Po and so forth. Each was also in character.

Utena fingered the embroidery of her coat as she smiled faintly; the girls were devoted with making the quality of their costumes authentic and true to the ones they wish to emulate. What they did was quite admirable and was glad that she took the job. She realized that when you enjoy and love what you do, than it's not a job.

Another day, another yen, Utena thought absentmindedly as she cleared another table.

Utena tried to control the tick under her right eye. Her teeth gritted with the effort, to keep her mouth shut. There was nothing to do but continue with the task at hand.

He was a paying customer, a regular at that, whom had a fondness for singing anime theme songs. An American.

She winced at another off key note. How can anyone consider that singing?

More like butchering the lyrics.

Can't he hear himself? Utterly tone-deaf.

Finally Utena could bear no more. She threw down the cloth and marched over to his table. Towering over the guy, she leaned in and spoke her tone slightly playful. "David has anyone told you..." the words trailed off.

"Tell me what?" David asked voice eager; it was known that he liked the beautiful pink-haired girl.

"You can't sing to save your life." She said with a consoling smile that took the sting out of her words.

The look on the guy's face was one of surprise and embarrassment as his friends laughed. "I will if you give it a go," he offered in compromise, with good natured laughter.

Utena shook her head in deferment, with a grin. "No way!" Utena knew that she can't sing and therefore avoided karaoke. Mihoshi was especially fond of it. Maybe even addicted.

"Well then, I guess that everyone's for another rendition!" taking a deep breath, ready to sing at the top of his lungs-

-Only to have a friend of his cover his mouth. He should have done it sooner.

Said person held on as he looked up Utena. "Save us, Utena," he pleaded.

"I..." Utena was surprised at the sudden change of the situation.

"Sing!"

"Save us!" the cries assailed her from around the café. She looked one way to the next, looking like a deer caught in headlights.

They cry out to you, came the voice that was Dios, soft and compelling. I can't sing!Utena protested futilely to him. There was silence once again. Utena knew her duty, she must answer their pleas. But to sing? C'mon! Still, a prince always answers the call for aid from all who seek it. The task is not always the obvious things, or a grand adventure.

She glanced over at Kira who watched her with obvious amusement. Her eyes seem to say, that's what you get. She was going to enjoy herself, Utena knew, at her expense.

Utena closed her eyes as she sought a song to sing, as well as blocking out the visual distractions. Finding one, there was a pleased smile. She rather liked the lyrics to this song. Utena opened her mouth, words spilling forth, giving sound to familiar lyrics to AM Drivers.

C'mon let's start

It's calling me

I've known for a long time

That it's a roundabout way

I can change without seeming to change

Sure, I'm clumsy

But I have one thing that precious

Straight from my heart

Now that I understand

I was left with this tiny bit of innocence

For this never ending journey...

The flow of her words was shadowed and powerful that her voice wasn't silk, it was like steel, barely containing a rough darkness that gave an edge to the words. This was something else. The smoke hand heat of her voice belied the classic beauty with an aristocratic flair to her grace.

There was something in her voice that caught people's attention but clearly, Utena wasn't suited for the career of a pop idol.

"Ha! See you're no better singer than I!" crowed the American gleefully crowed the American, ribbing her. She made no such claim. Utena resisted the urge to smack him. He was after all a paying customer. Kira wouldn't be pleased with her roughing up a regular. It was simply bad business.

"Isn't that the wrong theme song?" drawled a familiar voice that caused Utena to freeze. She slowly turned around and plastered a smile. Sure enough there was Ryoko, sitting in a booth with Sasami in tow. The younger girl was waving at Utena.

What were they doing here?Utena wondered feeling nervous. "Yeah, it is. Be right with you," she said, turning on her heel, Utena went to the kitchen and deposited the dirty dishes in the sink, and washed her hands. Kira leaned against the counter.

"What's up Utena? You look worried," Kira noted the slight perspiration on the other girl's forehead.

"Not really," the pink-haired beauty said, with a weak smile. "My roommates are here..."

"And you're worried that they are going to give you a hard time for working here," Kira finished for her. Understanding where she was coming from, Kira made an offer to see to them herself.

"No, they saw me already. I'll handle them. I'll just buy them a round of ice cream."

"A good way to soften them up," agreed an impressed Kira.

Utena turned hopeful eyes to Kira. "You wouldn't happen to have a bottle of sake stashed around here?" she knew it was futile to ask but she was ever the optimist.

The other girl's eyebrows rose at the request as lip twitched with amusement. "Sorry, against policy." She watched Utena's shoulders slumped in defeat. Kira was sympathetic to her problem.

"I knew it, but I just had to ask." The older girl patted her on the back.

Walking back she smiled, despite Ryoko's obvious amusement. Well, they would've found out eventually, Utena consoled herself. Carrying the ice cream bowls, she set them before her friends.

Lowering her menu, Ryoko eyed Utena with understanding. What she intended was not lost on the cyan-haired beauty.

"Thank you." Both Ryoko and Sasami said in unison.

"Can I get you anything to drink?" Utena inquired.

"Strawberry milkshake, please," Sasami requested.

"Green tea please," began Ryoko, gearing up to feed her vast appetite. "Two blueberry pies to get me started."

Utena wrote down the order with quick efficiency. "Got it. Anything else?"

"That's enough for now."

"I'll be back with your orders soon."

The wait wasn't long and Utena appeared with the requested items.

"So this is where you disappear to for the past weekends," Ryoko began, as she took a bit out of her pie.

"Yeah, excuse me," Utena said as another costumer, waved her over.

Ryoko watched her do her thing, as she tended to other patrons in the place. She was polite, and equally attentive to everyone. The former criminal had fully intended to rib Utena for working in a place like this. But seeing her interact, and do her job with dignity, dressed in that costume... well, Ryoko lost heart. Utena was working when she really didn't need to. She can always poke fun at her later, at home...

It was part of the older sister job description, something she thoroughly enjoyed. Having her as a sister was such fun.

A shadow fell over them as another tray filled with more ice cream bowls were set before them.

"We didn't order these," Sasami said.

It was a petite girl wearing glasses. "Don't worry, Kira sends these with her compliments. I'm Kiki," she said.

"Hi!" piped Sasami.

"Hey," responded Ryoko in a laid back manner.

Once the introductions were out of the way, Kiki went straight to the point. "You two are friends with Utena?"

"Yeah," the little princess answered.

She beamed at them. "Isn't darling Utena cool!" the girl exclaimed, as her eyes shone brightly with the declaration.

"Utena looks so dashing dressed like that," commented Sasami as she watched Utena move.

The server's eyes widened at Sasami's words, pride filled her next words, "I know. I designed the suit she's wearing as Ambassador Releena Peacecraft."

"You did?"

"Yep," the girl nodded. "Utena pulls it off wonderfully."

"That she does," Ryoko agreed as she shoved a spoonful of ice cream into her mouth.

"I would love to see her in a dress," Kiki stated. "Would she make a more beautiful girl or boy, I wonder," she said half to herself. Ryoko nearly spilt the contents in her mouth across the table at Kiki's next words. "She'll be perfect as Darkmoon Rini... wrapped in dark crimson..." Kiki trailed off, lost in a daydream that from the awed look on Sasami's face and hearts in her eyes that she also envisioned.

They both stopped and stared reverently into space, seeing the colors and textile cloths. Designs of hairdos and other things of the sight Utena made.

"Cool," Sasami whispered, as if inside a cathedral.

Ryoko stiffled a snort. Utena is so in trouble, Ryoko thought her humor ready to burst.

The place wasn't as packed as they first saw when they arrived. Several tables held what seemed to be regular customers from how they greeted Uena and the other servers by name. Still, Utena was busy while Kiki kept them company.

A young man three tables down from where they sat, was having trouble opening a package. Utena was at next table, taking down orders and the guy accidentally bumped into her, sending the items on the tray wobbling precariously. Thanks to Utena's balance nothing spilled. Embarrassed, the young man began to apologize profusely to Utena and the other dinners. In doing so, he knocked of his bottled drink. It was inevitable for the bottle to spill.

Suddenly, Utena's free hand moved with lightening speed, snatching the bottle from mid fall. The action was so startling that there were light gasps from those who had seen. She set the bottle on the other side of the guy, well away from any dangerous repeats.

The awe and the embarrassment was clear as the guy offered praises to Utena who in turn laughed it off, as she set the food on the table. Another server appeared and took over. She was dress in a similar style to Utena, though the colors were different. There was a quiet exchange between the two and Utena smiled in response, looking relieved. Utena went to her friends.

"That was so cool," Kiki breathed.

Sasami said. "You're so quick."

"The training pays off," Utena answered with a charming grin, tone ironic. "I just never knew that it'll be so useful here." She glaced over at Sasami, Why is Sasami looking at me funny? Utena wondered.

"Kiki brought us more ice cream," Sasami said at Utena's smile.

"So, how did you find me?" Utena asked, curious.

Ryoko shrugged her shoulders. "The two of us wanted to have some fun. So I offered to treat Sasami to anywhere she liked. It's a stroke of pure dumb luck that we walked in here." She eyed Utena, a smile on her face, "Imagine my surprise."

"I take it that doesn't happen often," Utena retorted with a smile of her own.

"Nope."

As Utena and Ryoko chatted, Sasami felt herself ready to burst.

"You just got to be Darkmoon Rini!" Sasami blurted out of the blue to a startled Utena.

She was utterly confused, wide-eyed. "Wha-?" exclaimed a blindsided Utena.

"Please," cajoled Sasami, using all her innocent charm, eyes wide and pleading. Charm rarely called upon that it was difficult deny her anything. Utena was no exception to the rule. Ryoko could see the struggle that Utena was faced with. But once Sasami set her mind on something, she was relentless.

the pink-haired girl realized that Kiki must have talked, of her fancy to fit Utena in a dress. She steeled herself, meeting those pink eyes. I will not wear a dress, I will not! Utena prepared her resolute answer, an unmovable NO. Sasami reached out to Utena and took her hand in her own. The word that that rang in Utena's mind was not what passed her lips.

"Fine."

What happened? Utena thought frantically. No matter how fierce her will, Utena hung her head in defeat as she gave in to Sasami's pleas.

"Thank you!" Sasami cried as she hugged Utena, the power in her small frame would do her mother Misaki proud.

Can't take it back, Utena thought, no matter how much she wanted to. She was dazed, as Sasami crushed her in her joy. "Me... in a dress..."

"I have just the perfect cloth for it too!" Kiki piped up. "Got to have some shear..."

Seeing the look of stricken horror on her face, Ryoko wanted to laugh and had to resort to stuffing her mouth with huge slice of pie. She didn't want to compound her misery. She so owes me big time, Ryoko thought as she choked down the pie, tears of laughter running down her face.

She was coughing slightly that drew Utena's attention. Her blue eyes narrowed with suspicion, over Sasami's head. Ryoko managed to speak around the mouthful of blueberries. "This is good pie."

Kiki was stunned to see that Ryoko had managed to eat a good sized portion of the pie in one bite.

Utena didn't buy it, but smiled nonetheless for the mercy shown.

Kira showed up to the table. Utena made the introductions all around.

"Thanks for the ice cream," Sasami said.

"You're welcome," Kira was amused by the little girl that clung about a frazzled Utena. "Nice meeting the two of you." Looking at her watch she spoke, in a businesslike manner, "Closing time," she announced.

Kiki excused herself with a wave. "See you around."

Sasami let Utena go.

"We'll wait for you," stated Ryoko as she watched Utena gather their empty dishes.

"Wait," Sasami called to her pink-haired friend, who stopped. "I mussed your clothes," Sasami said as she smoothed Utena's lapel that was sticking up and adjusted the curvet.

"Thanks," Utena said as she flashing her easy brilliant smile. Both watched the girl walk away.

Author's Notes:

End of Chapter 7: Currency Situation.

The idea of Utena working in a place like that, struck me as a funny one. But did I get the setting right? Hmm...

Now that Washu has a willing test subject, what does she have in mind, I wonder?

Anyway, hopefully this was worth the wait.

So what do you think? Comments and Criticisms are welcome. Please review. Thanks for reading!

--Harunomiya