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 12: Spirit

The snow began to fall steadily throughout the coming winter paving the lush green earth in white powder. Even covered in snow the scenic view was breathtaking, the purity of the white snow gave the surrounding, an otherworldly glow. But for all that beauty, the cold air was harsh in the lungs that breathed in and out, in small breaths. With every exhalation of breath, the mist of the very breath visible to the naked eye. But for all that winter cold couldn't match the feeling of the frost deep within the heart that settled there, a cold blade that bites deep, a constant reminder of a painful memory, a painful loss. A loss that was even more acute during these cold and barren days.

Each footfall crushed the snow underneath, moving forward leaving a trail of footprints behind. As the beginning snow, fell lightly, it masked the evidence of her passing. Utena wasn't bothered by the snowflakes that fell as she made her way back to the house.

On her way back she caught sight of Sasami all bundled up in a warm coat, the hood lined with a fur trim, and trying to coax Ryo-oh-ki into joining her, out into the open. It was obvious that the cabbit didn't really want to, but she really liked Sasami. So she ventured out cautiously, every motion wary.

It is strange that no matter how cautious and careful one was, there will always be the unexpected element of surprise in all things. The unexpected element of choice was of course, the very snow. A good amount of snow loosened from the top and slid down the shingles and fell directly on top of Ryo-oh-ki. The sudden cold that hit her caused the cabbit to yelp in surprise and made a dash to the warmth of the house.

Sasami was bawled over with laughter, laughing so hard that tears spilled, her ringing tones clear and pure as the fallen snow.

The cabbit appeared moments later, clearly wet and indignant. Her disgruntled behavior as she hissed at the snow only added to Sasami's mirth.

When she straightened, the young princess felt something hit her from behind, startling her, causing her to jump. She whirled around hoping to find the source of the attack, but only to find Utena grinning at her.

With a quickness that surprised Utena, Sasami leaned down and scooped up a handful of snow and hurled it at her. The accuracy of Sasami's retribution stuck her in the face. The snow exploded upon contact, showering her in white powder.

Sasami was outright giggling, seeing the shocked look on Utena's face; snow clung to her lashes and littered her pink hair, in a fine coating. She shook off the excess snow but there were remnants that still clung to her.

Sasami was quick to run, knowing that retaliation would be swift. But the young girl was laughing so hard that she kept slipping and was pelted several times until she cried her surrender. Utena peered down at her and dropped her snowball and as soon as she did that, Sasami scored with her sneak attack. Ryo-oh-ki managed to trip up Utena, bumping her small form into Utena's calves. The suddenness of it caught Utena off guard and caused her to topple back into the snow with a muffled thud.

She didn't bother getting up, in fact, she didn't feel the cold that seeped past her coat, making her wet. For a second there, Utena was flat on her back staring up into the sky watching the falling snowflakes. Impulsively, she began to make a snow angel. Sasami always lightened her spirit considerably. And the snow fight brought laughter that warmed her more than anything. She was helped her to her feet.

She dusted off the snow and shook off all that clung to her hair. She turned to Sasami who was still in the fit of laughter and grinned.

"Not a bad," she commented, as she looked down at the impromptu angel in question as Sasami nodded enthusiastically. She spotted Ryo-oh-ki, snug in Sasami's coat. "You little sneak," she said. "Two against one."

Ryo-oh-ki meowed and cast beseeching wide eyes to Utena, causing the older girl to chuckle. "Don't worry, you'll still get your carrots," she said and the cabbit meowed happily. Her attention then turned to Sasami.

"Let's go inside. You're sister will have my head if you get sick," Utena said.

"Okay," Sasami agreed, giggling some more. "We'll have some tea to warm us up."

At the sight of her sister, Ayeka immediately sent her to change, lecturing her on being so careless. Sasami tried to look contrite, but she was fighting a smile that threatened to spill forth. It didn't help the situation that Utena was in the same crux. She had to turn away before Ayeka noticed. The princess would be miffed to know that she was so predictable.

* * *

Ayeka emerged from the kitchen and saw Utena sitting on the porch watching the snow fall, her figure outlined against the brilliance of white. She saw the younger girl rub her arms. After a slight deliberation, Ayeka walked to her. Carrying her tray with tea and cups she gracefully knelt beside the pink-haired girl, settling the tray in front of her.

Utena turned at the slight rustling of clothing, and saw Ayeka's tentative smile. For a moment, Utena's sight was pierced with images of... her.

"I hope I'm not intruding," Ayeka began, slightly unsure. There was always a strange reaction from Utena at her presence. The princess was well versed at reading people, and from the look of Utena's face, there was a painful memory involved. That was something she understood. In fact, Ayeka was tempted to help, but didn't know how to do so. What can she do, when her very person triggered it? She wanted to ask, what do you see?

Whatever shadows haunted the pink-haired girl, never took away from her courtesy.

"No, not at all," Utena said offering a smile.

"Would you like some tea?" Ayeka asked as she lifted the tea kettle. "It's quite excellent for winter days. Besides, Sasami told me that she promised you some."

"Yes, please," the younger woman agreed. Ayeka poured the hot steaming liquid into the two empty cups.

They both sat in relative silence, sporadically sipping at their tea.

"Breathtaking isn't it?" Ayeka murmured as her eyes locked on the view outside.

"Mmm."

"Lord Tenchi has told us of a celebration done here on Earth called Christmas I believe."

"Yeah, it's coming up soon, this winter wonderland is perfect. Spend time with the people that you care about." Utena's eyes clouded for a moment. "It's a time to give."

"Yes, on Jurai we have a similar custom called Startica. It is a celebration that takes place in midsummer." Utena focused her attention on what the princess was saying, her interest caught by learning customs of a culture different than her own. Ayeka's light cadences of speech left no doubt that she was a refined lady of means. Of course, that air vanished under her fights with Ryoko.

Then again Ryoko got under anyone's skin if she set her mind to it. She loved to push people's buttons for her own amusement. Ayeka was her favorite target because she was so easily riled.

"What's it like on Jurai?" Utena asked genuinely interested in knowing.

Ayeka looked at her a second before speaking. "It's the most beautiful planet in the universe." Utena watched her out of the corner of her eye. She saw how Ayeka's violet eyes softened at the thought of her home world. The princess described the day to day affairs of the Royal Palace, the preparations. But what really was a source of pride was her people.

"We are a people that are close to nature. Our cities are built to thrive in coexistence with the natural beauty of our planet."

"Sounds like Paradise," Utena murmured.

"It is." Ayeka agreed, as a warm smile sprung to life. "Then again, I am a little bias."

Utena smiled at the wry humor in the words. "There is that."

Utena stared into the contents of her cup. She wondered what Ayeka thought of Earth, so ill used by its people and neglected. "Earth must pale in comparison," she said, voicing her thought.

The Princess hastened to assure her. "Not so, the First Queen of Jurai, Funaho, is a native of Earth. When Father, married her, she brought customs that are now woven into the fabric of our society."

"Earth has its own beauty that I find endearing and refreshing," Ayeka said as her eyes studied the young woman next to her. Her next words were reflective. "Beauty not found on Jurai."

* * *

When the subject was brought up during lunch, it caught excitement, never mind that the Masaki's men were Shinto. They would go along with the idea, to make the girls happy. Washu was quick to draw up plans for ideas centered around on the holid

The tasks for everyone were already parceled out. Tenchi and Nuboyuki were recruited to track down the Christmas tree, and lug it back home. Ayeka and Mihoshi were responsible for the interior decorating of the house; hanging personalized stockings, the angel hair, and of course, the mistletoe. Plenty of it, ever since they discovered that whoever stands beneath it must share a kiss. Sasami was busy trying to read up on traditional Christmas fare, while keeping the peace between her sister and Mihoshi. Ryoko and Utena were busy setting up the life- sized replica of Santa and his reindeer on the roof. Washu was also there to make sure that everything was properly assembled.

Utena knew that she was no match against Ryoko's brawn, but she was stronger than she seemed. When she asked for decorative pieces, her Mommy produced mecha Santa his mecha reindeer so lifelike to fool the world. Leave it to Washu to create the simplest things to a grand scale.

Now if only jolly ol' Saint Nick wasn't so bloody fat... She mentally grumbled.

True, Washu could have fixed everything in place with ease and saved everyone the trouble, but that would detract from the whole point of the Spirit of Christmas. This way everyone, contributed and bonded, (or became unhinged) creating wonderful memories. She was certainly doing so, as she watched her two girls struggle with the rotund man in the red suit. She smiled; life was defiantly better this way.

* * *

Once all the stuff was up, each of them went shopping for the gifts, taking pleasure in selecting just the right one for the people on their list. No store was left standing in the pursuit of the perfect present and holiday outfit. The fortunate retailers were left agog and crying with tears of joy as they made out like bandits, thanks to generous spending customers to whom money was no question!

It was Ryoko's idea to set up a bonfire out back and everyone was dressed as they pleased.

The fire was already big. Sparks flitted up from the bonfire, and danced into the sky. For a moment, Utena lost myself in watching them weave their way into nothingness.

"Spacing out again?" Ryoko's voice jarred her from the trance of the dancing flames.

Utena glanced over her shoulder to see Ryoko. She was dressed as a Mrs. Claus, with the cute hat, she grabbed another limb from the pile that Tenchi had set out to be burned. She picked it up with ease, showing off her strength, and tossed it into the fire. Flames licked up around it, catching onto the new wood and slowly curling up the bark as fire crawled up it.

"Oh!" Washu's breath hovered in the air in front of her. Her hand covered her mouth as she tried not to laugh. "You two, you're under the plant."

"Mom?" Ryoko's voice was questioning, and she shot a quick, worried and slightly confused glance at Utena. Her face was politely blank, but the cyan beauty could tell that Utena was just as confused as she was. Ryoko started to take a half-step closer to her, reaching out to gently take her arm.

"No, little Ryoko," she waved at her to stay where she was, "its bad luck to break tradition."

"Mom, I don't understand."

"Oh," she laughed lightly and then pointed upwards.

Ryoko followed her gesture, and looked up. The bare branch over their heads was dusted lightly with snow. Directly above them was Ryo-oh-ki, wrapped in leafy greenery and trailed down towards them.

"Mistletoe." The word dropped from Utena's lips in surprise. It was honestly the last thing she'd expected to see above her. She'd have been less surprised to see Akio's leering down at them.

Her eyes were drawn inescapably to Ryoko. There was a hint of a smile tugging on her lips, but more clearly visible was the worry in her eyes. Pushing her wasn't something that Ryoko had ever wanted to do.

"Ryoko," she whispered, her voice cracking over her name.

Her eyes flicked away and then locked on blue, golden eyes steady.

"Trust me." The words were equal part statement and question. Did Utena trust Ryoko? To guard her back, absolutely. For this?

"Yes."

Ryoko's hand raised slowly, her thumb glided over Utena's lips and stroked across her cheeks. Utena felt her skin heat under Ryoko's touch. Keeping her golden eyes locked onto blue, Ryoko lowered her lips to the younger girl's with aching slowness.

Ryoko's lips brushed Utena, barely a feather of sensation against her lips. She tasted faintly of Sake, and she smiled into the kiss as Utena remembered her finishing a cup in their shared room before all began gathering outside.

She couldn't help herself. There was a hint of a playful challenge in her eyes, as Ryoko waited for her to make her move.

Utena wasn't about to back down.

Utena shifted her weight from foot to foot. Her blue eyes traced the features of Ryoko's face. The golden feline eyes that she was so familiar with. The quirked brow that challenged her, the lips that curved into a smile and then cheekbones that contained more strength than even Ryoko believed.

Her hands slipped up to grasp either side of Ryoko's face. She steadied herself against Ryoko as she rose up on her toes to reach. The cyan beauty wasn't helping her out in the slightest, making Utena do all of the work.

The thought irritated her and goaded Utena forwards, pushing her past the edge of her uncertainty, and into brushing her lips gently against hers. The contact lasted only an instant, keeping it light until Ryoko was responding to her. Her lips caught the bottom lip gently, teeth grazed. Startling her, Utena's hands slipped from Ryoko's face, and Ryoko frowned at the sudden loss of contact.

"Utena?" Her voice cracked on the last syllable, a studied cool, broken by an unknown edge.

She could already see Utena hunching inward and pulling away from Ryoko. As she did so, it was far enough to look into her eyes. She could see the uncertaintly and strangely disconnected feeling. It was the same feelings that were mirrored in her eyes.

Ryoko seemed tough and confident. She could kick the ass of any living thing, but one word, one look; one gesture from Tenchi could crush her. Tenchi hated the power that he held over her. It made him responsible, as sensei had often reminded him, and Ryoko was a lot to be responsible for.

"Sake."

"Huh?" Utena was distracted as she looked over at Washu, still deep in thought.

"I thought you two could use some Sake," she smiled gently, but she was looking over at Ryoko as she spoke.

Utena straightened. "Yes, please," she said steadily. Right now she needed a drink. Ryoko was the only one who noticed her hand trembling slightly before she curled it into a fist and stuffed it into her jean's pocket.

At that point, Ryoko drifted away, or maybe Utena drifted away, with Ryo-oh-ki on her shoulder. Mingling with the others as they talked in hushed voices, recalling about the old days, and eccentric old habits of Tenchi's dad. Some smiled indulgently, and a few frowned. Once they spotted her, none were really sure what to make of Utena's brief stint in space with Mihoshi, and her subsequent duel with the imfamous bounty hunter. They They all cared for her and to see her in such a bad shape, however brief didn't sit well with them. Only Ryoko and Sasami knew the story from her, the others from Mihoshi's extensive report.

* * *

"Time to give out the presents!" Sasami cried with the exuberance of a child who believed in the mystique of Christmas. She rushed to the tree as the others laughed lightly. They followed Sasami and gathered around the tree. Being that this was Utena's first Christmas with them she was to receive her gifts first.

Kashusito handed her a beautifully bound text. "Juraian wisdom and teachings," he said solemnly. "Along with katas," he added.

This pleased Utena mightily, ever on the pursuit of martial knowledge.

Utena handed him a set of calligraphy pens that cost a hefty sum of yen. Bowing slightly after receiving the gift, he stepped back.

Nobuyuki smiled sheepishly as he handed her his gift. A box full of art supplies he knew will be well used. A wooden carrying case, Utena unlatched it, inside was filled with tubes of basic colors and lots of white. Dry pigments and linseed oil, sable brushes, sketch pads, even a roll of linen canvas. She in turn gifted him with a new camera, which the man was pleased to have and immediately startled to use. Taking loads of pictures for posterity.

Tenchi was up first he smiled nervously. Utena was amused by the older boy's behavior. Not that she blamed him.

"This is for you," he said as he laid something in her lap. She was well aware that Ryoko and Ayeka were interested in see what Tenchi had gifted her with. It was obvious that Tenchi was found of the pink-haired girl. She peered into the box and tried not to be so amused. Tenchi was ever so practical, and careful.

She looked at him, blue eyes dancing and winked.

"There's no need to worry," Utena said in a dry voice. Everyone understood the comment and chuckled while Ayeka, Ryoko and even Tenchi blushed faintly.

What was in the box was her own training clothes, no more hand me downs and tailored to her measurements.

"Here is yours," Utena pulled out a good sized box decorated with paper with pictures of Ryo-oh-ki on it.

"Thanks," Tenchi hefted the box and his brows rose slightly at the weight.

What's in here? Rocks?Tenchi wondered.

Utena grinned at his expression. "Eye for an eye," she said cryptically.

He pulled out several pieces of practice armor. A bamboo sword and all the trappings that went with it.

Seeing Tenchi's reaction Utena grin widened and a mischievous glint danced in her blue eyes.

Ryoko's laughter rang loud.

* * *

Mihoshi came forward and handed her a package, her blue eyes bright with excitement. Utena gave her the gift with Mihoshi's name on it. Once she tore away the wrapping paper, she saw a pink cashmere sweater and khaki slacks. Highly reminiscent of-

"I remembered you saying that you liked my outfit so... I got you your very own!" the bubbly blonde said enthusiastically.

Well, I did say that, Utena conceded. "Thanks Mihoshi."

"There's another one in there," Mihoshi said and Utena moved the layers of wrapping paper. Underneath all that was another set of clothes, dark blue cashmere that matched Utena's eyes and a black pair of slacks as well.

"You can mix and match!" the bubbly blonde said.

"Open yours, Mihoshi," Utena prodded.

"Oh, right," Mihoshi said. In her excitement, she clearly forgot to open Utena's gift to her.

What was in the box made Mihoshi jump up and start bouncing around with joy.

"I can't believe it!" the GP officer squealed. "I can't believe it!"

"Well, what is it?" Ryoko demanded to know.

"It's the complete series collection of Space Police Policemen!" Mihoshi cried as she kept bouncing around the room. Utena had decided to buy the collection for her since Mihoshi was so fond of the show.

"Don't forget this," Utena said as she pulled out something more from the box. Mihoshi froze at the sight of the plushy that the pink-haired girl held out to her. Rushing over she grabbed hold of it and held it close to her face.

"It's adorable!" the blonde said as she snuggled against the plushy, giggling. She then held it out for the others to see, hearts were in her eyes. "Look, it even has a GP uniform like mine!"

"Now you have someone with you, when you make your rounds." Utena said pleased to see Mihoshi so happy.

"What will you name her?" asked Sasami.

Without a pause to even think, Mihoshi blurted out, "Kiyone!"

* * *

Washu stepped forth towards Utena, hands behind her back, knowing that the others wondered what gift she would give Utena, hoping it wasn't something harmful.

As if. In fact it would be something that Utena might value highly.

She met those impossibly bright blue eyes and saw the genuine warmth in them that Washu felt her own answering smile.

"You know, I thought long and hard on what to give you. Even thought about building you something magnificent..." she smiled at the look of curiosity on Utena's face.

"Here," Washu said simply as she held out a small box. Taking it, Utena studied it. The box had a metal clasp and the small button that stood out. Dutifully, the pink-haired girl pushed the button that had PRESS ME written on it. In doing so, the little box opened and a light simmered from within. A small ring rose before Utena, waiting for her to take it. The ring was made of the rarest of precious metals known in the universe, shinning with a luster as if moonlight was encased within to give it such luminescence. It was beautifully crafted as the kanji of her name was written upon it.

Reaching out with her right hand to take it, Utena felt the ring respond to her request as it fitted itself onto her ring finger. The feeling that flowed was once the ring touched skin was a resonance of sorts before settling into inertness.

Her eyes were full of wonder. "Thank you for this magnificent gift," Utena said her voice soft with emotion.

Utena thought long and hard on what to give the woman who can create anything with relative ease. So what Utena decided upon was a simple but rather heartfelt. It was an 18x36 colored sketch that depicted Washu in her lab, sitting on her floating cushion. Her body was at an angle, facing the observer, as if surprised to see someone there.

Washu's throat constricted, as she gazed down at the artwork in her hands. Utena was talented, but she saw how she was depicted, drawn with an eye of a friend filled with affection.

* * *

"This is my gift to you," Ayeka said as she handed over a beautifully wrapped package. Utena took the gift and carefully tore into it, knowing that she was going to save the wrapping. Her eyes widened when she peered into the box. She withdrew the contents carefully.

In her hands was a kimono of pink and white tones. The fabric was fine and amazing substance as she ran her fingers across the cloth. From the looks of it, it was chosen with careful thought and consideration. There were several layers that completed the ensemble.

She couldn't help but smile at the sight she might look like dressed in it. Utena knew that she was going to need help in wearing it the proper way. The sash alone was enough to give her trouble. Ayeka was so prim and proper and regal in her appearance, lovely and every inch a princess.

Utena reached out to her and took her hand in hers, as she squeezed lightly. "Thank you Ayeka," she said sincerely, "I can only hope to wear this and do it justice."

"I am pleased that you like it," Ayeka said as a light blush graced her cheeks. The cloth that made up Utena's kimono was one that only the Royal family of Jurai used.

Releasing one of her hands, Utena reached for the present with Ayeka's name on it. Utena handed the small package and Ayeka took it gracefully with a tentative smile. Removing the wrapping Ayeka saw a beautifully bound book in leather, cropped with rich lavender stitches. Inlayed in gold lettering, was Ayeka's name. Running her fingers across the supple leather and name, the princess looked up at the pink-haired beauty, wondering the meaning of this gift.

Seeing the question her eyes, Utena answered in soft tones, meant for her ears alone. "My gift to you is freedom of expression. A means for you to express the words of your heart."

How could she know such a thing was so difficult for her? A Crown Princess that for all the power in the universe found hard enough to speak from her heart when such things were frowned upon. As a Royal, since her childhood she was taught to wear a mask, to hide all she felt and truly thought. Since coming to earth, glimpses of her true nature was seen beneath the mask.

* * *

"My turn!" Sasami piped up as she stepped forward holding a small box in her hands, "Here, Utena, it's not as flashy like Washu's."

"There is no one like Washu," agreed the older girl. "Thanks, Sasami," she looked at the object in her hands. It was a small box and as she opened it. Inside there was an intricate woven band of a light colored bark. It was smooth and warm to the touch. The grain was unlike anything Utena's ever seen. She caught Ayeka's look of surprise.

"It's a hair band," Sasami said, "like those worn on Jurai."

"Sasami, did you use the bark from Ryuoh's tree?"

Sasami frowned, looking scandalized "No. I wouldn't do that, Ayeka, Ryuoh's yours." Ayeka seemed relived at this and Sasami continued on, "I used my tree."

"Tsunami?" Ayeka squeaked out, her face pale.

"Yeah," Sasami nodded brightly. "I called home and had mommy braid it for me."

Seeing Ayeka's reaction to what had given her, treated it like the precious gift it was. "I take it that this is very special." She leaned in and hugged her.

"Thank you Sasami." Utena said warmly and pulled out a little box wrapped carrot-covered gift paper from her pocket. She held it out to the young princess. "This is for you."

Sasami gingerly took the wrapped box and wondered what's inside.

"What is it?" she asked.

"You have to open it to find out, silly." Utena said with a smile. Returning the smile Sasami unbound the package, and opened the black velvet box. Sasami's eyes widened at what she saw inside. Her eyes went to Utena's face.

"They're beautiful," Sasami whispered, awed. She hugged Utena tightly, and the embrace was returned.

"I'm glad you like them."

"Well, are you going to show us already?" Ryoko asked playfully, curious to know what was in the box. It was clear that Utena was fond of Sasami. But then so was she.

"Ryoko, really!" said Ayeka, moved by the emotion in those blue eyes. Sasami giggled and drew back. She went over to them and showed them Utena's gift. It was a pair of hairpins beautifully crafted in the shape of blooming roses.

"Oh, how lovely," murmured Ayeka.

"Yeah, they suit you Sasami," agreed Ryoko.

The others also added their commentary as they beheld the gift to young Sasami. Utena spoke up.

"I have one more thing for you Sasami," Utena said, catching her attention along with everyone else. She withdrew two cards. "These here, are yearly passes to amusement parks."

"Wow!"

"Go put your gifts away Sasami," Ayeka told her sister, who was grinning happily. She hugged Utena once more before she disappeared with Ryo-oh-ki following behind. Once they were certain she was out of earshot, the conversation started up again.

"That's in the United States." Tenchi interjected, looking at Utena.

"Yeah, but Sasami deserves it." Utena said. "I'm willing to bet that if it wasn't for her, we'd starve to death." Her lips twitched as huge sweat drops appeared and nobody argued against the claim.

"I'm sure that's not a good idea." Ayeka began.

"Come on Princess!" exclaimed Ryoko.

"Sasami's my sister Ryoko!" Ayeka's voice rose a fraction. "She's just a little girl."

"Precisely Ayeka," Utena inserted, placing her hands flat on the floor, drawing their attention back to her, and stopping the beginnings of a fight. She leaned in, blue eyes bright. "Sasami's a kid and should be able to experience life, have fun. She shouldn't be in a hurry to grow up. Life will be hard enough when she does." The softly spoken words made an impact on the elder princess. Ayeka wanted her sister to be happy, as much as possible.

All of them watched Utena, always earnest when she spoke, especially on behalf of others.

"You have a point." Ayeka conceded, lowering her voice. "But how can I allow her to go without protection?"

Ryoko saw Utena stiffen. Her eyes darkened slightly. "I'll look after her Ayeka. I'll protect her, keep her safe." There was a errie calm about her that Ayeka had no doubt she meant every word, spoken in tones that were binding.

"Miss Tenjou is quite capable of keeping Sasami safe." Katsuhito said finally speaking up. Everyone turned to the head of the house.

"I agree." Ayeka said after a moment. "I meant no offence. I'm merely protective of Sasami."

Utena nodded in understanding. "I know. So am I." She straightened up and smiled, blue eyes gentle, wistful. "It must be nice to have siblings. I'm an only child... I envy that." With that said Utena fell silent.

It was then that once a month excursion with Utena came about much to Sasami's delight.

Ryoko spoke up. "Here, I wanted to give you my gift." Ryoko flew over to Utena who was buried under her hug.

"Remember, I still need to breathe Ryoko," Utena's words were muffled, her laughter in her voice.

"Ryoko, won't you behave for once!" Ayeka admonished, as she glared at the woman.

Ignoring Ayeka, Ryoko's eyes twinkled as she spilt in two and flanked the startled Utena. The pink-haired girl glanced back and forth between the two cyan-haired beauties. From the look in her eyes, Utena was able to detect that her friend was up to something. But what?

Before she was able to question, Utena felt a wrenching sensation deep in her stomach. She felt a shift, realizing that Ryoko had teleported.

They reappeared outside; Utena glanced down and saw they were several feet above the lake.

"Ryoko, don't you dare dunk me in the lake," Utena warned, causing Ryoko to chuckle wickidly.

"Hadn't thought of it. Although..." Ryoko let the sentence trail off.

"Ryoko!" Utena screamed as the ex-pirate and her doppelganger released their hold, sending her plummeting what promised to be a wet and very freezing outcome.

Just then, Utena is caught up by Ryoko and her other self as they laughed.

"Nah, it's too cold for that."

* * *

Those left behind at the house were at loss for words as they couldn't find either Ryoko or Utena.

"Where did they go?" Mihoshi asked, as she looked about the room in confusion.

"What is that insufferable woman playing at?" Ayeka demanded from no one in particular, displeased by how she manhandled Utena without consideration for her person just like lord Tenchi! Ayeka fumed. Her train of thought was disrupted by a loud yell of exhilaration.

Gathering herself, she pushed herself to her feet at followed the noise as the rest were right behind her.

Utena's shouts and unbridled laughter echoed loudly in the open. All eyes turned where Utena was, up in the air, high above their heads. It was clear from the joyous laughter that she was absolutely enjoying herself. It was also obvious as she zoomed past the others, grinning wildly.

Tenchi and the others watched as Ryoko and her double zipped passed them holding Utena between them. Sasami couldn't help feeling a bit envious that she was grounded, watching the fun that Ryoko and Utena were having.

The former space pirate was having a kick, flying Utena around. She knew that her pink-haired friend always enjoyed watching use her abilities. Abilities that Ryoko took sometimes for granted. Hearing a whoop of exhilaration from Utena, Ryoko knew that she had chosen her gift well; the gift of flight.

She slowed down a bit to give Utena a chance to catch her breath. She then shifted her hold in order to embrace Utena, holding her close. "You better hold on tight to me," Ryoko warned her. "We're about to go a lot faster."

Utena eyes were wide and filled with excitement, a huge grin plastered on her face. She wrapped her arms around Ryoko's neck, her right hand locking onto her left wrist.

"Ready," began Ryoko. "Steady-"

"Go!" Utena exclaimed, and Ryoko increased her velocity. Twisting and turning as she made sure that Utena was okay. Thanks to her time in Washu's simulator cockpit, The G-force that pressed down on her was bearable. It also helped her deal with the sense of vertigo that allowed her to enjoy the adrenaline rush and crazy spinning. The view from up high was amazing and understood why Ryoko rarely walked anywhere she didn't have to.

Heck Utena knew that she'd be tempted to do the same had she the same abilities as Ryoko. To be able fly free without any constraints as one rooted to the earth by gravity's pull.

* * *

By the time Ryoko set her down, her voice was hoarse from screaming her pleasure. From the look of Ryoko's face she too had fun, despite that fact of Utena's constant screaming in her ear.

She stepped back, her face flushed with the joy of the impromptu flight. She opened her mouth to give her thanks for the gift and found that no sound came.

She cleared her throat, and croaked a single word, "Thanks."

Ryoko was so full of herself.

"I don't think that after that, my gift will seem minor." Utena said dryly. "I'll have to go get it."

Ryoko's eyes lit up, feeling excited to see what Utena got her. "Don't worry I've sent Ryo-oh-ki."

Seconds later the little cabbit came bounding towards them a package secure in her teeth. Ryoko knelt in the snow to take it from her furry friend. She opened the small package and saw a hand crafted bracelet. Taking it, Utena tied it to Ryoko's wrist.

"This is a friendship bracelet. I made it for you, Neechan,"Utena said playfully. "I want everyone to know you are a good sister and better friend."

Utena affectionately addressed her as older sister.

Ryoko looked at her with wide simmering gold eyes, filled with emotion. This simple crafted gift, a sign of friendship of great regard, meant more than all the treasures in the universe. The cyan-haired beauty flung her arms around the youngster.

"When it falls away on its own, you can make a wish and it will be granted."

* * *

Making their way back to the warmth of the house, Kashusito bid them all to be seated in the living room. Wondering why, they nonetheless did as he asked and settled down. Sasami and Utena served the egg nogg, before taking a seat. Sasami had everyone scoot over to make more room for her.

Washu watched everything from her vantage point on her floating cushion that was right behind Ryoko. She successfully suppressed a smile, not giving away anything. More often than not, Sasami was quite clever in how she handled things, or rather people. Not that Ryoko and Ayeka minded, unless you counted a nervous Tenchi who had no choice but to sit still, to keep the peace, and there is the fact that he was maneuvered in such a way that was effectively trapped. The poor guy didn't even know how he got into these situations. Only that he did.

The impressive looking elder waited quietly until all the noise had died down, his eyes gave away nothing as he surveyed them all in a sweeping violet glance. His family. In his hands was a book that caught their attention.

What was the old man up to? The ex-pirate wondered.

The old man in question, cleared his throat and spoke. "I would like to read aloud a western classic suited for this occasion, by Clement Clark Moore." Opening the book, he began to read.

T'was the night before Christmas,

when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, --not even a mouse;

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there...

By the time he reached the final page his listeners were half asleep. Nobuyuki tried valiantly to record the whole reading, judging from the stressed look on his face. Sasami had fallen asleep curled against her sister's side, head resting on her shoulder, a smile on her face.

Ayeka was acutely aware of lord Tenchi's warmth and had to restrain herself from snuggling too close... She eyed him demurely from underneath her thick lashes.

Now if only I can get him under any of the mistletoe... Ayeka's thought trailed into romantic notions of that much dreamed of kiss. She colored faintly.

Ryoko was on the couch, flanking Tenchi, her hands were idly stroking Utena's hair as she sat on the floor, leaned against her legs. It kept Ryoko from grabbing at Tenchi and fighting with the prissy princess, although she had to admit that Utena's hair was soft to the touch.

Utena didn't mind sitting on the ground. The couch was too crowded anyway. Although she admitted that Ryoko's affectionate stroking was welcomed as well as relaxing. The effect on her was too relaxing, almost lulling her into a languid state, eyes were half shut.

Only a faint sound of snoring kept her from completely giving in.

Mihoshi was asleep and currently using Utena's lap as a pillow. How in the world did that happen?Utena wondered. Not that she minded, but her legs were cramped. She was trying to figure out a way to move when Mihoshi stirred slightly. Beautifully arched brows, furrowed. She caught sight a dark stain against the pale color of her slacks. Blue eyes narrowed.

What the...? Is that... drool?

Author's Notes:

End of Chapter 12: Spirit.

Season's greetings!

I couldn't help myself; I had to write Kiyone in...even if had to be as a plushy doll. I wracked my brain, for the perfect gift that Utena gave each of them.

This was an unexpected chapter for me to do. The idea thrust itself upon me. I couldn't get it out of my head, until I wrote it down. I could could use some sleep...

Now that this is up, my marathon madness of posting has stopped. Thank the Powers That Be! I'll go back to my one per month posting of chapters.

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

-Harunomiya