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 25: Letter
The mute presence was still, though it was impossible, pleased. It was truly effortless.
Well, nearly so.
Infiltration was successful, evading all possible detection. Such stealth assured the mission's completion. Nothing mattered but the task that was handed down. It was of the utmost importance that it be carried out. The directives were clear:
First: locate the target... pending... Target acquired.
Second: secure package... calculating percentage of optimal chances of successful retrieval, high... placing...
Third: remain undetected... eluding unforeseen variable... reassessing the situation...
Forth: Mission statues: pending... alter tactics... remain undetected... confirm delivery... via third party... 99.99% success... mission completed.
0-0-0-0
She sat slumped over her desk, face buried in the crook of her folded arms and pink hair obscured her features from sight. Her hair was long enough to brush her shoulders, always meticulously groomed and cared for. But for the moment, it spilled across her arms, a river of pink.
And in that moment, she dreamed...
Everything was surreal, cast in a blush tint of light from overhead as she walked down the corridor, the endless trek, down the deceptive pristine halls that smelt of death and decay underneath the chemicals used in an effort to mask the inevitable. A place that was disturbing... there was a coldness that offered no warmth, much less solace for her broken heart.
Her sense of loss was profound, echoing even now in the most unexpected moments. It never truly healed as she dreaded to tell her niece, a mere child that her parents had perished. Her mind recoiled at very idea, her heart splintering further, even as her tears streaked down her face.
Her vision blurred caused her to stumble, and blindly she reached out, to steady herself against the nearest wall.
She had a heightened sense of things, a foretelling of things to come even as her heart pounded furiously in her chest in anticipation. With every footfall that fell against the slick floor echoing loudly and equally mocking in her ears, her lungs inhaled the age-old grief belonging to countless others before her that permeated with the cold sterilized air.
She rested her forehead against the cool glass under her touch, her lungs inhaled the lingering chemicals, all in feeble attempts to preserve fragile mortality; the raw grief permeated the very air, stifling.
However, her attention was drown to a figure, lying unconscious, swathed in layers of white bandages, tinged with seeping crimson and by the looks of the doctor's expressions, the pity for the prone body, the inevitable end. Whomever it was lay there alone, surrounded by those without any shred hope.
No! She had to awaken. Her fingers curled into a fist and pounded it against the glass. This sudden fury burned inexplicably bright alongside the grief. Lazarus rose from his eternal slumber, so must it be again.
The prone body rises, a familiar face, surrounded by wild hair and flashing eyes, etched with pain so raw and deep that it was hard to look upon and not see herself reflected within and encased in eternally of blue. Feral hands raked across the bandages by tearing away at the confines, heedless of the uproar, intent solely on freedom.
Unexplained joy suffuses her and eclipses the sorrow.
She did not understand. But knew.
The prodigal child returns.
0-0-0-0
Tenjou Yurika woke up with a start.
The sun had set, but it was still rather light outside her office window. She blinked, clearing the sleep out of her eyes, and let out a quiet yawn.
Wakaohji Aoi, Yurika's assistant, poked his head into the office. "Good evening, Yurika."
Yurika smiled thinly. "I take it that I've been out for a while?"
Aoi nodded. "I know how hard you've been working diligently on those last minute design projects, so I figured I shouldn't wake you."
Yurika frowned. "I have been working hard, but not as hard as when I..." She trailed off. What was I dreaming about?
"When you were in high school?" Aoi finished.
"Right," Yurika muttered, distractedly.
"Well, you're not a teenager anymore, Yurika," Aoi said patiently. "Pulling all-nighters is easy when you have all that adolescent energy pounding through you, but you're..." He trailed off and thought it best that he didn't finish that sentence.
Yurika sighed at the lecture. "You're right. I'm not a child anymore." She started to make some adjustments to the mild amount of clutter on her desk. "Any messages while I was out'?"
Aoi'shead dropped out of sight, and a moment later he appeared standing in the doorway, carrying a small white envelope. He stepped into her office. "Yes, this was slipped under the door. I thought it might be a note from... someone else, so I haven't looked at it too closely." The note in question was held out to her.
Yurika momentarily rolled her eyes at the vague suggestion in Aoi'stone. She knew there was no one else– almost no one else.
The woman blinked at the odd rider on her own thoughts, then shook her head as she took the letter from Aoi's outstretched hand.
It was marked "To Tenjou Yurika".
"From Tenjou Utena."
For a moment, it rested in Yurika's hands, and then it slipped from her suddenly nerveless fingers to drop to the desk.
"Yurika?" Aoi asked a concerned note in his voice. "Is something the matter?"
Yurikatook a deep breath. "No, everything is fine," she lied smoothly. "It's just that this is from someone... someone that I wasn't expecting to hear from. It caught me by surprise, Aoi, that's all."
This was true, and so couldn't possibly expect a letter from her. She also did not know why the thought of a letter of this sort should cause her such shock.
"It was slipped under the doorway, so you didn't see who it was from?" Yurika asked.
"No," Aoi replied, shaking his head for emphasis. "I took a quick peek out the door after I picked it up, but there was no one in the hall.
"I see. Thank you, Aoi. Why don't you go home, now? It's well past quitting time, isn't it?"
"You're sure that you're all right?" Aoi asked, dubiously.
"I really am fine, Aoi," she lied again. "Thank you for your concern, though." The man was an incurable worrier... though his heart was in the right place.
"All right," Aoi said, turning to go. "I'll see you, Yurika."
Yurika waited until she heard the door to the office close before she let out the long, deep breath that she'd been holding. Slowly, she took up the letter in her left hand and a silver letter opener in her right. Even more slowly, she cut away at the envelope.
Within the envelope was a single card, with writing on both sides - elegantly shaped kanji. On the side which faced up as she pulled the card from the envelope:
Hi Auntie!
I know it's been a while, but better late than never right? How have you been? I hope everything is going well for you in Amsterdam. How's Mr. Wakaohji, please give him my regards, will you? Well, I just want to let you know about what's going on in my life at the moment. So here's the first bit of news: I left Ohtori Academy. Don't worry; I haven't become a juvenile delinquent...yet. Just kidding! I'm still continuing my studies; you'll be definitely be surprised by what I have learned so far!
I hope you're not too disappointed, but I thought it was best and I'm happy with the choice I made in the school I'd transferred to.
I will see you soon.
All my love,
Utena
Yurika's was surprised by this bit of news. What could Utena be thinking? She immediately chastised herself, finding that fault lay at her feet since she neglected to keep track of her niece.
She flipped the card onto its reverse side. In the same hand:
P.S. I now it's a bit cloak and dagger, but there's a perfectly good reason for it. Sorry!
There was no forwarding address or phone number in order to reach her. How the heck was she going to respond to this letter?
The rest was blank.
Yurika only vaguely realized what she was doing as she rose up from the desk, walked around it, and took up her coat. Only as she stood on the threshold of the outer office did she pause, and take a deep breath. "Stop it," she said to herself and she shook her head, not at all pleased with the unusual reactions.
Deja fait.
That did describe her feelings about the letter far more accurately that the term she had spoken did. Not only that it seemed a familiar sight, but that the entire experience seemed to be something she had done before. Receiving a letter and then acting upon the information related within it.
But she could not for the life of her remember where or when or how it had occurred, before.
A moment later, the door to the office of Tenjou Yurika, closed once more.
0-0-0-0
The hotel had all the charm of a newly opened box of Kleenex. Functional, somewhat decorative, but it was still a generic hotel with all the sameness that it implied. Or so it would appear in a passing glance. In reality, there were subtle nuances in the deals that were overlooked that gave the place an understated air.
The woman, Viona Van Zandt, manning the desk looked up from her paperwork, falling on the latest body that entered the hotel, eyes piqued, having a weakness for the latest fashions. This was going to be interesting, she thought. The hotel was being to see a wave of a fresh crop of foreigners due to upcoming event that was happening in a few days.
From the appearance of the latest newcomer was not dressed a la vogue, but causal. Her critical eye could not discern any recognizable labels, though it was clear that they were well made, and no less appealing. She surveyed the cut the figure made appreciatively, quite suitable indeed.
Utena stepped through the lobby doors; the carry-on bag was slung across her shoulder, as she walked to the front desk. The woman behind the desk was smiling at Utena. She had a good smile and turned it up significantly, but Utena was all business.
"How may I be of service?" she spoke in good English, with a light accent.
Reaching up, she removed her wrap around glasses, while fixing her blue eyes on the woman, "Hello," Utena began politely, no accent noticeable. "Is Tenjou Yurika in?"
"One moment, please." The woman picked up the phone at her left and pressed a button while speaking quietly. Hanging up, she turned back. "She's not in her office at the moment. Would you like to leave a massage?"
"That's perfectly all right. I'll wait in the lobby." she said with a light smile and scanned for a seat that gave her a perfect view of the doors and of those coming and going.
As she waited, she withdrew a book from her bag and flipped to the pages until she found where she left off. She intended to read for a bit but her intent was marred as her mind started to wonder off…
0-0-0-0
She had finished the latest test in Washu's lab several weeks after hair was freshly trimmed and styled, while her self-appointed mother admired the latest results.
Utena sat in the simulator, waiting for her adrenaline to begin to ebb. She tilted her head back and spoke softly. "You know, recent events have made me realize that it's time I face some things head on."
Washu's voice filtered into her ears via her helmet. "From what you have told us, nothing more could be harder than that."
Utena looked non-committal as she fiddled with the controls. "You know the letter I mentioned?" the girl asked as Washu responded in affinitive. "Well, it's meant for my Aunt Yurika. It's hard to judge what to add or leave out, trying to explain what I have been up to. So it's been taking me a while."
"I can arrange for the letter to reach her, if you like. The Spy Triple X Camera was built for that kind of thing! Just absolutely perfect for the task!"
"Washu you're the greatest!" the Mecha Washu's boomed over the comlink, causing Utena to wince. Washu was laughing uproariously at the ego stroking.
"That'll be great. But I don't think that'll be enough or right." Utena pointed out as Washu murmured words of understanding as she listened. "She raised me since I lost my parents... I owe it to her to answer in person."
"Go to Amsterdam in person... just say the word," she offered.
"I'll take you up on that soon, thank you, but not until I get the letter written and delivered."
"I know it's been hard for you not to see her or write to her." Washusaid. "I know about that clause in the contract you both signed." she began to quote, "'it is necessary in order to provide optimal productivity in our students without distractions.' "
"But once I left, I wasn't in the best shape." Utena admitted. "Look I know that you've been digging around trying to piece together things about me." Utena began. "I know you had good intentions Washu... and a great deal of curiosity," she added wryly.
She stooped Washu before the woman could interrupt. "You know now what I didn't want to share. I won't stop you. All I ask is to let me know if the duels start up again," she said quietly. "And if you come across any information, well, I'll appreciate it. Anything at all that can prove useful to defeat Akio, once and for all."
0-0-0-0
Tenjou Yurika finally returned, thinking of all the things that she needed to get done. I don't need harder. I needed to be easier, she thought darkly.
What was waiting in the lobby was something else.
Utena was sitting in one of the overstuffed chairs, long legs crossed as she held a book in her hand, head bent forward, completely absorbed in reading. Her thick pink hair was stylishly cropped, and for a moment Yurika mourned the missing long tresses. She watched the dark lashes obscure those bright blue eyes, which rested against that fair face. She was dressed in pale blue jeans with the bottoms of boots showing, wearing a white tee underneath a comfortably broken in brown leather jacket.
Utena turned her attention from the book and seeing who stood there, a familiar smile curling her lips. The smile was warm and open, so familiar to her. She looked at her as she had never gone away. She stood in one fluid motion, flashing the full smile, which reached her eyes, dazzling and bright. The book was forgotten and dropped into the vacated chair as she stepped forward, arms outstretched to give a hug.
Finally she moved and collided with the girl she raised, embracing fiercely. "My goodness Utena, is that really you?" Yurika murmured as she stepped back and took not of the changes in the girl. Aside from her cropped hair, Utena was taller than she last saw her, meeting eye to eye.
"Yeah, It's so good to see you Auntie!" she enthused warmly.
"Wow!"
"I know," Utenaagreed, "but I wanted to surprise you."
"That you did!" Yurika said still stunned but nonetheless pleased. "What did you do to your hair?" she asked reaching out and touching gingerly. It was still as soft and silky as she remembered.
"I'm shedding my inhibitions," she said.
Yurika laughed.
"No? Then how about it saves on shampoo?"
"Utena!" Yurika tried to sound stern and failing miserably.
"It kept getting in the way of my training with Tenchi," she answered. "One day, I got so fed up that that my hair wouldn't stay put I grabbed a pair of scissors and... chop, off it went!" she said with a pleased smile and unrepentant look. "I know it's a bit drastic, but had to do something show them who was the boss."
Yurika was laughing so hard that she attracted nearby attention from the woman at the front desk. It was so contagious that she too was stifling a grin at the sound. She had dearly missed Utena and her antics that always left her in stitches. She laughed, still the older woman noticed some things that Utena dropped too casually for them to be accidental. Or that she failed to mention in her letter.
"Who's this Tenchi person, and what are you training for?" Yurika asked as some of the laughter faded from her niece's face leaving her wondering.
Utena open her mouth to reply when Yurika's cellphone interrupted. She scowled at the interruption as she was rummaging in her purse. Finding it, she flipped it open and in a business-like voice answered all the while annoyance graced her features. She listened to whoever was at the other en of the line all the while interjecting, minimal replies of "Yes sir, no sir, right away sir," to this seemingly one-sided conversation.
A few heartbeats more and the cell was flicked shut with an audible snap. Her eyes were filled with rebellious light that was quite familiar. She often enough felt the spark herself.
"Auntie, we can continue this conversation later. I see that you have some work to do."
"You just got here," her aunt said and looked a bit mulish.
Laughing softly Utena laid a calming hand on her forearm. "There is time for words later," she promised with that.
Her shoulders slumped as Yurika sighted, giving into defeat. "Fine, follow me."
Utena quickly gathered her book and bag and fell into step with her aunt and walked to the front desk, "Ms. Van Zandt."
"How can I help you Ms. Tenjou?" the cute blonde asked.
"Have someone take my niece's luggage up to my suite and let her in." Yurika instructed brisk efficiency that garnered results.
"There's no need for that, Auntie. I only brought my carry-on," Utena spoke up.
Yurikaturned to face her as look of surprise graced her features, "Is that all you brought with you?"
"Well, yeah," she said as rubbed the back of her neck smiling sheepishly. "I've always been a low-maintenance kind of girl, you know." As she had expected, her self-deprecating humor drew warm laughter.
"Well, we're going to have to do something about that," Yurika commented thoughtfully.
Meanwhile, the receptionest was intrigued by Yurika's niece and was quick to offer her services to them both. "I'll personally take her up, Ms. Tenjou."
"Thank you Ms. Van Zandt. You're such a dear."
"Yes, thank you," Utena seconded.
Viona Van Zandt moved from behind her desk waiting for the girl to follow. Utena in turn gave a quick peck on Yurika's cheek. "See you later, Auntie!"
Waving, Yurika watched her vanish around the corner.
The woman was now standing by the elevators, smiling.
"Thanks again," Utena said.
"Think nothing of it, Ms Tenjou."
"My name's Utena." she automanticaly said, not one for formalites if it can be avoided.
Brown eyes blinked. "Viona, at your service," she flashed that pleasant smile.
The elevator doors opened and closed, leaving them alone in a mirrored box. Utenawatchedher own reflection as the ride continued to the top floor as music playing softly in muted overtones. The elevator stopped from time to time, dropping off other guest. She caught the various reactions to her person by the mirrored surface, the outright surprise, the curiosity or the thoughtful speculation, even interest.
Viona didn't miss them either, amused as the woman tried to make idle chitchat to pass the time. She opted for the obvious question. "So what do you think of Ms. Tenjou's work."
Utena's lips quirked slightly at the corners, she quickly caught on to the blonde woman's intent. "It's very nice. I see subtle touches of her in the details of the decor," Utena answered simply.
As she sought out other topics to breach, the blonde noticed the well worn book Utena held tucked under her arm; Viona made a polite inquiry about it, as she didn't recognize the title.
"It's a collection of unique verse, penned by an obscure poet," she answered casually.
"Any particular favorite?" was the follow up question.
Utena paused to consider the question, not a favorite per se, but one that caught her attention the moment she read it. Her eyes drifted shut, before beginning to recite:
The Prince hath returned once more,
Powers of old reawaken from ancient slumber,
In the hand wielding such might is the Chosen unfettered, untamed.
A vessel, shaped of mortal flesh and bone growing into powers yet unknown,
Walking amid the shadows to spread the encompassing light,
Enveloped, standing firm and steadfast is the steel of Honor, forged by an unyielding Code.
Shall ten thousand swords dare lift against, than heed the clarion call?
Harken! O, roses, noble sigil, rise up, lend thorns and vine, to defend!
Woe to all who stand against the deceptive flower, its sharpened thorn.
Yet, will the self same fate be that of the first Heir,
Shall the Chosen fall to bewitchment as in times before?
Only the forgotten Bards of old know and they tell naught.
The woman was quite surprised that the young woman actually recited something obviously committed to memory; it was quite rare to come across a youth that had that air of maturity. She admired the rise and fall of every word as they conjured for her a beautiful imagery. The woman praised her as Utena smiled faintly.
Finally the elevator came to a stop doors opened to her floor. She stepped into the hallway that was relatively quiet save for those in charge of daily maintenance; one was intent on rendering a mirrored wall spotless. Utena was casually walking down the hallway, Viona right besides her with the card key in hand. However, the pink-haired girl paused for a moment to help, as she silently retrieved a stack of clean towels and passed it within the person's reach, once she noted the supply was running low. Utena continued on without waiting leaving Viona slightly puzzled by this unexpected display of thoughtfulness. It wasn't long that she found the room that matched the key number. Sliding the keycard into its proper slot gained her admittance to the room that Aunt Yurika lived in during her stay here.
"There you go," Viona said brightly, stepping back. "I do hope that you enjoy your stay. If there's anything that you might need, please, feel free to call me."
"Thank you yet again."
Utena wandered around the room, fingering her aunt's things, feeling strangely comforted. She walked past a beautiful flower arrangement, smiling slightly. She loved flowers. She wondered if it was standard to the hotel, or if it was something that her aunt had personally selected.
"Well, first things first, shower." Utena said to herself. Walking over to her bag, she found what she was looking for, an extra set of clothes and toothbrush.
Moving into the bathroom, Utena took a moment to admire its spaciousness before she noted the towels and robe that she found easily. Shrugging mildly, Utena moved to the shower and was soon luxuriating in the hot water as she used her aunt's items. Once out, she brushed her teeth and ran a comb through her hair. It would do, for now.
Pausing only to grab her phone Utena moved to the living area of the apartment, her curiosity and her hunger getting the better of her. She did not doubt that Aunt Yurikahada fully stocked kitchen and certainly she could amuse herself for a while in this luscious space. She hoped that the apartment would provide her with some insights of her aunt.
She also hoped that everything was alright. Utena knew that it must have been some very big situation for her aunt to leave. Ah, the trials of being the boss. The pink-haired girl mused as she moved to the kitchen, delighted by the functional beauty of the space. It was obvious that the elder Tenjou still cooked, the kitchen was not for show.
The coffee pot drew her attention and soon Utena had fresh coffee brewing in it as she rummaged in the refrigerator for something to eat. It was indeed fully stocked and soon she had what she needed to sate herself so that she could concentrate on the rest of the space without distractions such as her stomach to bother her
Sitting down the comfortable couch she looked over the skyline of the city which was displayed in such a breathtaking manner from this vantage point, Utena flipped open her phone (courtesy of Washu) and dialed home.
On the third ring, the phone was picked up. "Masaki residence." Ayeka's cultured voice gently answered.
"Hi, Ayeka, it's Utena," she began, "I'm just touching base, I'm here in Amsterdam."
"Utena," her name was spoken with genuine warmth. "How's your trip?"
The little girl heard her sister answer the phone and correctly guessed who it was
Sasami ran to her breathlessly, "Ryoko...Utena...phone!" Ryoko jumped up and headed for the door.
"Just fine," she assured her. "Would you let the others know?"
"Of course," Ayeka agreed readily.
In the background, Utena heard Sasami's familiar voice.
Ryoko saw her first, holding the phone handset. She and Sasami respectfully kept their distance for a bit.
The other two girls began to approach her, not having overheard the conversation. Ayeka moved away as Ryoko took the phone, "Utena?"
"Ryoko, hi! How are you holding up?" Utena asked.
"It has actually been pretty boring around here." Ryoko wanted to say more, but she saw Sasami looking at her expectantly, and said good bye and handed the phone to her, "Hi Utena! We miss you so much around here!"
Ryoko phased from sight off as her little friend happily chatted away.
She was flying through the air high above the house, circling at hundreds of miles an hour. Ryoko flew higher and higher, happy. She wasn't really paying attention as her speed approached Mach 1.
"...and Mihoshi off on duty and Tenchi at the shrine. Washu's in her lab...," there was a loud crack, like thunder, "wow, I think it is going to start raining here. Is it raining where you are Utena?"
"What? No." Utena said slightly puzzled, over at her end.
Ayeka was outside when she heard the sound of thunder. She looked up at the sky to see nothing but blue. That's strange, she noted.
Utena said goodbye and hung up the phone. It was like a large weight was lifted off her shoulders. Unburdened, she was finally able to finish reading her book.
It wasn't long after that Yurika showed up, and found her niece folded in her couch, hair still damp from the shower she was wearing dark athletic clothes and a grey tee shirt and thoroughly engrossed in her reading.
The moment she was within a few feet of her, Utena looked up and that easygoing smile flared into existence, so very warm.
She gave an answering smile, "I hope I didn't keep you long," Yurika said.
"Not at all, Auntie," Utena replied. "Just doing some light reading."
The woman nodded but wasn't going to allow anything to distract her, especially with small talk. Seating herself in opposite of her niece, Yurika went straight to the point.
"I tell you I was surprised to get your letter, so out of the blue, and with no forwarding address to boot." she chided. "What's with all the cloak and dagger air?"
"Sorry about that, Auntie," Utena said sheepishly, "I thought I'd make it up to you by coming in person."
"My dear Utena, you left Ohtori the most prestigious school? Mr. Wakaohji was disappointed to hear that, he has very fond memories at his alma mater."
That makes one of us, Utena thought caustically.
"Why did you decide leave? You never explained that to me in your letter with any clarity." Yurika pointed out.
It was now that she had to respond and Utena didn't answer.
Not right away at least, and as Yurika gave her time to gather her thoughts, she was once again struck with the changes time has wrought in her niece. Changes she noted, that went far deeper than her outer exterior. Her gaze fell to the book that rested lightly on Utena's lap, her eyes widening at the thickness of the volume bound in weathered leather that had seen better days, clearly it was something that wasn't found in a bookstore. It was something a serious scholar might have in a private collection.
This is what Utena considered light reading? Yurika thought incredulously. She'll indulge her curiosity by asking questions later.
She focused on questions that required pertinent answers.
"I know I didn't. I wanted to tell you in person," she said at last. "Ohtori, I found, stressed victory by whatever means necessary. It was an unhealthy environment to be in."
Yurika's eyebrows shot up, taken aback at Utena's choice of words. "And the school that you transferred to is better?"
Utena couldn't suppress the smile that bloomed faced with her aunt's incredulity. "It's much more suited to my sporting nature."
"If I recall correctly, you insisted going to Ohtori Academy. It was what you wanted." Yurika was trying to make sense of what her niece was saying.
"I know, Aunt Yurika. Believe me, I know." There was something that seemed solemn in Utena's expression as she said those words.
"How long were you there?"
"Several months before transferring." Utena answered.
"And you fail to notify me of this sudden decision of yours? I've always supported your choices however unconventional," Yurika. "Why was this any different?"
She couldn't tell her the truth. "I didn't want to bother you. Not when you were busy with your work here," Utena said, and by the look that her aunt gave her, knew that that line of reasoning was insulting. It so weak to even pass muster with a fool.
Utena looked away, flushing. "Sorry," she whispered. Still she had to tell her something. "I was ashamed. As you said, you always supported me in my decisions, I did not want my poor judgment cost you to come back just to fix it."
"I suppose that I'm just at fault here maybe even more so," Yurika sighed. "I'm your legal guardian, and you were my responsibility. I should have never left you behind."
Utena hated this, hated that her aunt took the blame for herfoolish mistakes. How to make her understand that Utenawasaccountable for her own action and no one else? She broached the one subject that she had never talked about with her aunt. "When my parents died—" Yurika eyes widened at the mention, "—you took me in. you took responsibility for a six year old girl, you were so young yourself."
Utenalocked eyes with her, her voice pitched low and fervent. "I respect what you have given up just to raiseme, grateful to have a family." The girl continued, the words spilling forth, speaking from her heart, intense. "I'm grateful that you stuck by me Auntie, but you raised me to make my own mind and take responsibility for the outcome. I cannot assume your burden for your own errors, but we must learn from them, however painful, and move on. It was time that you moved forward in your own life, that's the only thing that should be a priority."
Yurika's eyes watered at the corners, but refused to let them spill over.
"I did what I had to do. As did you, and Iaccept all the right and wrong. All of it." Utena emphasized. She changed her voice to be flippant and light hearted. "Guess what? Two wrongs do make a right," she said continuing amicably. "It was there at that school that I met Masaki Tenchi anyway." It was the truth, however slightly altered, to pacify her aunt.
There was that name again, Yurika thought and allowed Utena to change the subject, that lead her down a different path, and she asked the perquisite question. "Who is this Masaki boy?"
Utena smiled, her blue eyes looking relieved.
"Tenchi'sthegrandson of a reclusive swords master who has agreed to train me alongside him. With a number of conditions actually, but most importantly, that I don't neglect my education, with excellent marks on my schoolwork. I was required to board with his family and that I not disclose the location of said home."
"You can't be serious!"
"He is a much sought after sword master, Auntie, the very best. It's an honor that Masaki sensei took me on as a student. He stays at the shrine while Tenchiandwe girls stay in the main house." Seeing the look of horror, Utena elaborated. "Don't worry, two of them are his relatives, another is a detective and a brilliant scientist and her unruly daughter." She chuckled fondly.
She reached for something in her bag and withdrew proof of her excellent marks in the school that she was currently enrolled in, along with black and white picture.
As Yurika studied the papers, that showed Utena's latest academic achievements, she was duly impressed. Utena had been a decent student, but this demonstrated that the girl was not achieving her full potential as she believed to be the case. It was merely proof to what she knew all along.
The woman smiled broadly, proud of her niece. "I always knew you had it in you."
"It took me a bit to figure that out on my own," Utena said jokingly, ignoring the warmth of her cheeks caused by her aunt's words.
Yurika turned her attention to the photograph and Utena promptly proceeded to point out who was who. "Washu and Ryoko have taken me under their wing."
"So this Tenchi is not causing you trouble?" Yurika asked wanting to make sure.
Utena laughed. She couldn't help it, Tenchi does not equate trouble, and he's as straight-laced as they come. Although, she had to admit, it seems to find him from time to time and none of it his choosing. "Gods no, Auntie, nothing like that! He's like a big brother to me. Everyone has accepted me, another part of their big dysfunctional family."
Yurika watched Utena closely, her face alight as she spoke about the people she boarded with. There was genuine affection in her voice for them and equally proud to be included in this dysfunctional family.
Her laughter faded away and Utena turned her attention to the door. "Someone's coming," she said, shifting lightly in her seat.
Yurika looked at her inquisitively. She didn't hear anything. She opened her mouth to speak, when a light rapping was heard.
The action was repeated and opened before anything could be said. Yurika turned around and caught sight of the intruder. It was no other than Wakaohji Aoi, who stood in the doorway. Utenastudied the new arrival. The man was dressed in a dark navy suit with a white button-up shirt and navy silk tie. His hair was cropped closein a no-nonsense manner brushed back from his face. His boyish good looks were etched with lines that gave him a more serious countenance even when he now sported a meticulously groomed goatee, lending him an air of maturity,
"I hope I'm not interrupting," he spoke with a lop-sided smile.
"Not at all Aoi," Yurika said rising as a fond look graced her features. She looked back at Utena, who stood as well. "Aoi, you remember my niece Utena."
He moved forward and bowed. "Of course, none could ever forget such a lovely girl," Aoi remarked, though he noted that something he said triggered her amusement. Quite suddenly, he recalled the last time he saw the young woman before him. He had been helping Yurika organize the shelves, instead he had been pleading for her to take him on as her assistant when she left to Amsterdam when his emotions got the better of him and kissed her. It was precisely that moment Utena witnessed. They both had seen the wide-eyed look of hurt and betrayal on her face. And her friend Kaido punched him, much to his bewilderment.
He had meant to talk to her, to explain what happened, but somehow he didn't.
Why was that? He wondered, bewildered.
And now she was standing here before him and all he felt was mortification at his sense of failure.
Utena noticed his sudden chance in his posture, signaling that he was uncomfortable with something and Utena could well guess why. She would be equally mortified if he knew that she had once thought him to be her prince. She smiled kindly at him, sympathy for his plight and resolved to put him at ease. "It's good to see you Mr. Wakaohji." Utena said and bowed. As she straightened she looked thoughtfully at the man. "I'm happy you convinced my Aunt Yurika, you're good for her," she casually added.
Both Aoi and Yurika colored brightly at the offhand comment and while Utena smiled cheerfully.
"Why yes, thank you, uh, so am I," Aoi fumbled. He then cleared his throat. "Ah, before I forget, I have two invitations for Sunday's fashion show." He reached into his coat pocket and produced said invitations. His face lit up and spread into a huge grin, "I'm sure that both you and your niece would definitely enjoy it."
"Eh?" Utena asked nonplussed.
"What a wonderful idea!" Yurika exclaimed.
"But I don't know what to wear at something like that!" Utena protested.
"Why don't you take her shopping, dear, my treat," Aoi felt like he was on a roll, a man inspired, as two sets of wide-eyed blue eyes stared at him. After all, girls like to shop and buy clothes, he thought sagely.
Utena indeed looked wide-eyed at the man but not in rapture as he thought. The man was probably patting himself on the back for being an insightful (or is it thoughtful) boyfriend. Aunt Yurika looked happy at the prospect. Aw heck, When in Rome, or rather Amsterdam…
Utena knew when she was beaten, but that didn't mean that she cannot give a parting shot. "Why thank you Uncle Aoi," she said sweetly and watched the man turn beat red and at a total loss for words.
After seriously considering claiming jet lag and need for rest, Utena decided against it for two reasons. One, she was quite relaxed and two, her aunt was really looking forward to this. After so long since she saw her last, well… she was overdue.
"What was a little shopping?" Utena commented with a shrug, failing to note the sudden gleam in Yurika's eyes.
I got you now my pretty, Yurika thought gleefully. After years, she finally ensnared her tomboy of a niece.
0-0-0-0
She took back every word. This was by no means a little shopping. More like a full blown shopping spree… a total blitz.
Utena could not help but gaze at her aunt a little. It seemed that Yurika was in her element. Fashion and power. No doubt the personal shoppers and private fitting rooms they were about to be surrounded by were offered the best to her.
Utena walked with Yurika towards the storefront they had stopped at. Immediately the doors were thrown open and what Utena assumed was the owner of the place gushed forth.
A second glance told Utena that she was mistaken. This was a designer. So, Aunt Yurika had a designer in mind. Interesting...
"This is Utena. You will be dressing her tonight. Do not disappoint me." Yurika said and turned slightly towards Utena.
Utena bit back a smile as the man fawned all over her for a little bit, his eyes speculating, measuring, and pondering. No doubt. Also, Utena was quite sure the man was wondering just who she was exactly.
"Shall we?" Yurika said and Utena walked with her into the boutique, which was promptly shut behind them and soon she was enclosed in an airy space that smelled of cloth and there was a whiff of expensive perfume in the air as well.
Shrugging out of her coat, Utenahandedit off to one of the many assistants that were ready and waiting to cater to their every need and nodded as she was asked if she would care for some champagne. It seemed like a silly proposal, but who was she to refuse.
She was being treated like royalty, something she never allowed, so she might as well throw herself into the experience as much as she could tolerate.
Yurika appeared at her elbow. "Do you want to look around a little before we start?" Utena glanced over at aunt.
"Sure. I mean I don't know anything about fashion, but I know what I like, so if I see something we'll add it to whatever you picked out." Utena smiled as she spoke the words and wondered if the people in this place knew just exactly who she was to her auntie.
There was a difference between dressing someone, and dressing who you cared for. A huge difference and anyone with half a brain would realize this the moment that Utena started to put clothes on, or saw them interact.
While Utena examined clothes and deftly managed to avoid the irritating hover of many people who wanted to bend over backwards for her, Yurika cornered the designer she had chosen. She hoped that Utena would approve in the end, she did not want this to be for nothing.
"She is my niece." Yurika said when she had the designer's attention.
"Lovely girl." The man said.
"Yes. I thought about it carefully before I chose you. Do not disappoint me." Yurika said softly. It was one of her more serious tones.
She meant business after all...
"Of course, Ms. Tenjou." The man finally breathed, seeming to straighten up his posture and then he walked towards Utena.
Much better, Yurika mused as she went to check the dressing rooms. There would be hell to pay if they were not up to her standards. Walking into the area, she saw with satisfaction that shoes, accessories, accoutrements, bags and any possible needed thing were laid out, ready.
Even the selections that Yurika had made were there. All that was needed was Utena. Yurika supposed that her niece was getting over a case of nerves. Though undoubtedly Utena was not used to opulence and personal shoppers, it was not every day that Tenjou Yurika took you shopping.
Yurika had laid out a plan of action that would hopefully draw most of the attention to herself, and she was certain that Utena would be able to handle herself with aplomb.
In some ways, Yurika was looking forward to the event with great anticipation. In others, she was actually nervous. Anything could happen, but hopefully only good things would.
Deciding that she had enough of browsing, Utena walked to the dressing area and prepared to take her clothes off. Yurika would not tolerate too many people ogling at her anymore than Utena would, so she was pretty sure that the various personal shoppers and assistants would be kept at arms bay until needed.
A quick glance at the tables of accessories etcetera, told Utena that the only thing she would be getting from this place was the dress itself. Shoes if necessary. But she would allow the various goodies to be used for effect. It was all kitsch, otherwise.
Yurika turned when she walked in and Utena saw something flicker across her aunt's face. In an instant, Utena knew that the designer had been told just exactly who she was to her. Interesting.
"I am ready. I did not see anything that caught my eye, so we'll just try what you selected, Auntie." Utenasaid as soon as she was close enough to Yurika to not have to speak much louder than a whisper. It was a mostly private statement, after all.
"Very well." Yurika said and without further ado, Utena walked into the spacious dressing room and started to undress. Outside she could hear her aunt giving instructions to the various people who were dancing in her attendance.
It was kind of fun, actually. Utena thought.
The mirrors in the dressing view offered Utena a panorama of her body that she rarely got to see. While she was examining herself, she thanked Washu's brilliance yet again; Yurika spoke just outside the door.
"Ready?" She asked. Utena smiled softly at the almost childlike eagerness that her Auntie's voice betrayed.
"Not really," Utena playfully replied. The door opened and Yurika stepped in carrying a dress that Utena paid scant attention to.
Yurika arranged the dress and waited as Utena finally inspected it. She watches her take in the garment. She was like a living statue, pure lines, and smooth curves. Flawlessly beautiful.
"I like it." Utena said as she reached for the garment.
The older Tenjou was pleased.
Yurika watched as Utena took it off the hanger and carefully stepped into it, adjusting the fabric as she eased it up her body.
"Zip me up Auntie?" she asked softly. She could do it herself but didn't want to risk wrinkling the dress.
Moving close, forcing herself not to fumble, Yurika reached for the zipper, easing it up the long planes of Utena's back. When she was done, she stepped back and took the dress in.
"Oh my..." Yurika breathed.
Utena was born to wear this dress. It had been Yurika's first pick, it was her favorite. She had been able to tell that it would fit her niece, not only physically either.
Utena turned to face the main mirror and her movement, a subtle grace, made Yurika suddenly realize something. At some point in time, when she wasn't looking, Utena grew up. She was no longer all angles. Stranding before was a beautiful woman.
The designer went mad when Utena stepped from the dressing room and after finding her some suitable shoes, the event was wrapped up with the promise of having the perfectly fitted garment delivered to the hotel by tomorrow.
It had been fun, but Utena was more than glad to be getting back into her own clothes. Aunt Yurika was arranging the details which allowed Utena to be more efficient. It was nice of her aunt to take care of these irksome details for her sometimes. Utena had never been fond of shopping, but her auntie had made it fun.
Grabbing her coat she stepped out of the dressing room and into the flurry of fawning assistants. Blah. Utena waved them off gently and with a smile and went to find her aunt.
She wanted to go now. She wanted food and drink…
Finding her aunt finalizing details, Utena walked up and nodded at the designer before turning to her. "Ready to go?" the pink-haired girl sincerely hoped that the woman was ready to go.
"Yes." Yurika said, seeming to read her mood.
"Thank you again." Utena said to the assembled cast to this madness, which earned her a flickering of smiles. Utena assumed they were not used to the rich being so nice to them.
She was not rich. But she was noble.
0-0-0-0
However, Yurika couldn't help herself. She was not an avid shopper, but rather a connoisseur.
How could Utena, blood of her blood, not share her rapture, surrounded by all this fashion? Yurika peered over at her niece, well dressed but casually so. It was a shame that she did not appreciate what this all could do to enhance her natural beauty.
They stopped near to window shop in the high end fashion boutique that they were in front of. It only took a moment for the occupants to recognize Yurika and before Utena could guide her away; her aunt was being coaxed into the store, her expression amused.
Shivering at the sight, Utenafollowed. She knew that her clothes would give her instant access to this boutique, even if her bearing might give the proprietors some pause.
Watching the street, Utena idly glanced about the store, noting that it was indeed a very high end location. Shaking her head minutely, she took some time to glance at her surroundings with mild interest.
"She wants you." A voice spoke next to her, causing her to glance over. Utena had been ignoring the occupants of the store, save for noting their shifting locations. She had no interest in them.
"Where?" Utena asked, modulating her voice to project confidence. The woman who had spoken seemed to take a moment to look Utena over, her eyes seeming to finally register that Utena was not an ill-dressed customer.
"This way," the woman said, guiding Utena to the rear of the store where Yurika was. Her aunt turned to her and held something out to Utena. It was a shirt.
One very much like the type that Utena favored, though a slightly different color.
Something in Utena told her that this was important to her aunt, somehow deeply important. Utena took the proffered garment and examined it. It was her size, but it would need tailoring. She usually wore off the rack clothes, but a shirt that was adjusted to fit her like a custom shirt, would also work.
"This will fit me, but it will need adjusting." Utena said as she handed the shirt back, her eyes meeting her aunt's. Yurika just turned back to the woman who was attending to her and Utena assumed she was no longer needed so walked towards the entrance of the store once more. Moments later, Yurika joined her and Utena walked back outside.
The venders were enormously pleased to meet someone who knew what they wanted, the colors that suited the shopper complexion. Utena watched her moved with purpose, as she named a certain designer or style and if they had nothing along those lines, they would walk out without a second thought.
And so, Utena spent several hours wandering the streets of Amsterdam trailing after her aunt from shop to shop. They went in and she tried this and that in her aunt's option suited her fabulously. She had the necessary adjustments and alterations made as she directed that the items be sent to the hotel.
Utena tried to handle this shopping blitz with as much grace that she was able to muster. Don't get her wrong, she loved an occasional shopping trip, (especially so when it revolved around someone else) but this was overwhelming. This designer's name and that style and cut, it left her completely feeling so out of her depth. She was happy that her aunt was well versed in the lingo of the fashion world.
But it was still exhausting just to watch her shop.
The older Tenjou wanted to buy something along the lines of what Utena favored. Tailored suits and that would enhance her beauty with a touch of feminine elegance. She also purchased casual wear. Yurika couldn't help but laugh kindly at her niece's befuddlement knowing that no matter how many things may change, some things remain ever constant.
Author's Note: I always wanted to bring in Utena's aunt some way into the story, and deal with something that I felt needed to be addressed. I hope I did a decent job at it. Muse willing, if she becomes a regular, well that remains to be seen. I will revise this chapter later.
The poem, (Though I took artistic license with the wording,) was by Lord Anime. I wanted to incorporate it into the story somehow.
So what do you think? Comments and Criticisms are welcome. Please review. Thanks for reading!
—Harunomiya