Utena dreamed that night. It was almost a relief to do so, for it gave her a context for her recent experiences. It was that old dream, the one from her childhood, the one that had been so dear to her. Bells and lofty towers, the scent of roses, and the flash of swords. And her Prince. She could feel herself begin to weep as she stood in the deserted castle, while all about her crumbled. Even as she dreamed, Utena knew this dream. When her Aunt had moved, this dream had come to her often, she could practically remember the names of those that peopled it. Red hair, then blue, then orange tickled at her mind, then silver made her heart stop with fear and excitement. She stood on the top of a stair and a rose was placed onto her chest - she could not see whose hand placed it there. Blood rushed through her veins as she fought. Then her sobs became cries of agony and thousands of stab wounds filled her with grief, once again, just as it had done, so long ago, when she had been a child. And she woke, as she had done, those long years ago, and wept with loss and humiliation. As the sun lifted it wan head over unforgiving, grey clouds, Utena lay in her bed, while streams of tears flowed down her face, but could not wash the pain away. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Its small, but I’ve always kept it clean. I hope you’ll like it." The landlady was typical of her kind, Anthy thought. Penurious, but not overly so, and kindly, in a pinch. "I’m sure I will." Anthy put forth a reassuring air. "I don’t need much and I’m quiet, usually. I’m a writer and I like quiet." "Really?" The landlady was not overly interested in her new tenant’s career choice, obviously. "Well, here’s the keys. This one’s for the front door, and here’s the key to your apartment. I do have an extra for emergencies..." Anthy let her attention slip as she was shown around the small apartment, while each facility was lauded and her own proper behavior ensured. They once again reached the front door and the landlady turned to refresh her image of the room. "Now," she began, glancing at Anthy sidelong. "How long did you say you’d need the room for?" Anthy smiled beatifically at the women, who smiled back, without really knowing why. "As long as it takes." Still smiling, the landlady bustled out and Anthy closed the door behind her. Still smiling, she opened the window to let the storm-laden air enter the room. The hardest part was over.
Back to Stress Fractures Index - Back to Revolutionary Girl Utena Shoujo-Ai Fanfiction