Script Version 0.5 (11/24/04)
THE MARK OF THE ROSE
PROLOGUE
SHADOW GIRL A
Once upon a time in a kingdom far,
far away, there lived a princess
grieving over the deaths of her
mother and father.
SHADOW GIRL B
Before this princess appeared a
prince traveling upon a white
horse. With his regal demeanor and
dashing smile, he enveloped the
princess in the beautiful scent of
roses. Then he spake unto her:
SHADOW GIRL A (AS DIOS)
Little one, under the heavy burden
of despair, please retain thy
strength and nobility even when
thou growest up. As a remembrance
of mine and mine words, take this
ring from me.
SHADOW GIRL B (AS LITTLE UTENA)
Pray, noble prince, shall we ever
meet again?
SHADOW GIRL A (AS DIOS)
This ring shall guide you to me.
SHADOW GIRL B
Was the ring from the prince
supposed to be thought of as an
engagement ring? This was all well
and good, but because of the
strength of her admiration for the
prince, the princess vowed then and
there to become a princess herself!
BOTH SHADOWS
But was that really such a good
idea?
SCENE 1: OHTORI ACADEMY COURTYARD
UTENA enters stage, as though having gone through a
transformation from girl to woman in a short amount of time,
followed by throngs of screaming groupies
I WANNA BE A PRINCE!
UTENA
I VOW THAT I WILL BECOME A PRINCE
I VOW TO BE A PRINCE AND SAVE EVERY
LAST PRINCESS
I WANNA BE A PRINCE
AND IF I DO THIS, I MAY ONE DAY
FIND THE PRINCE WHO SAVED ME
SO I VOW HERE AND NOW TO STAY
STRONG AND NOBLE
SO THAT I CAN BECOME A PRINCE
I VOW THAT I WILL BECOME A PRINCE
I SWEAR I'LL MEET THE PRINCE WHO
HAS SCENT OF ROSES
SO I MUST BE A PRINCE
FOR GIRLS IT'S EASY, ALL YOU MUST
DO IS NOT BE WEAK OR FALL
THEN EVERYONE WILL SEE YOU STRENGTH
AND NOBLE HONOR.
YOU WILL THEN BECOME A PRINCE
CHORUS
BUT OUR SWEET NOBLE PRINCE, WON'T
YOU FALTER IF YOU TRY TO PROTECT
EACH OF US?
THINK IT OVER, PRINCELY LIFE MAY
NOT SUIT YOU.
BUT IF YOU PREVAIL, WILL YOU TRY TO
PROTECT ME?
CHORUS
(spoken, each with a turn, fighting
over the right of Utena) Even me?
UTENA
I'll protect you all!
(Music break. UTENA plays basketball against some people and
scores a goal and the girls cheer for her. WAKABA catches the
ball and tosses it off stage)
WAKABA
Good morning, Utena!
UTENA
Wakaba, good morning!
WAKABA
PLEASE BE A PRINCE, BUT ONLY FOR ME
I WANT TO KNOW THAT YOU WILL ALWAYS
BE BESIDE ME
BECOME A PRINCE FOR ME
A PRINCE THAT'S DASHING, SMILING
AND STRONG; ONE COMPLETE WITH TRUE
GRACE.
IF ANYONE CAN IT'S YOU; YOU CAN IT
MAKE HAPPEN
BECOME A PRINCE, BUT JUST FOR ME.
UTENA
I VOW THAT I WILL BECOME A PRINCE
I VOW TO BE A PRINCE AND SAVE EVERY
LAST PRINCESS
I' M GONNA BE A PRINCE
AND IF I DO THIS, I MAY ONE DAY
FIND THE PRINCE WHO SAVED ME
SO I VOW HERE AND NOW TO STAY
STRONG AND NOBLE SO THAT ONE DAY I
CAN BECOME A PRINCE
I'M GONNA DO IT! I'LL BE A PRINCE!
CHORUS
OH YEAH
BE MY PRINCE
WOA-A-A-H
BE MY PRINCE
A PRINCE, ONLY, IF JUST FOR ME
A PRINCE FOR ME
A PRINCE FOR ME
A PRINCE FOR ME
A PRINCE JUST FOR ME
(WAKABA shoos all the others off stage quickly to make sure
they're all alone. She succeeds and begins conversation)
WAKABA
So, Utena, my best friend in the
whole wide world… What made you
choose Ohtori Academy for your High
School? There are so many others to
choose from…
UTENA
(ponders for a moment) I don't
know. There's something weird about
the school's crest that bugged me.
WAKABA
And that I was here, right?
(UTENA nods as a passing moment as she notices entering
SAIONJI and ANTHY. SAIONJI is pulling ANTHY on stage by her
hair and throws her down to the ground)
SAIONJI
Listen here, you little wench. How
many times have I told you to refer
to me as "Lord Saionji".
ANTHY
Yes, sir, Saionji.
(SAIONJI spits on her, then lifts her up by her hair and
slaps her a good one across the face, knocking her down
again)
SAIONJI
LORD Saionji.
(He leans in to pick her up again, when TOUGA enters. He
grabs Saionji's arm, forces SAIONJI to acknowledge the girls
who appear to be watching the scene then helps ANTHY up)
TOUGA
I would have hoped that the Student
Council Vice-President would behave
better in front (looking towards
UTENA) of new students. Wouldn't
you agree, Anthy?
(ANTHY doesn't respond; she just stares at the ground)
SAIONJI
Well, Mr. President, perhaps you'd
like to duel me in order to protect
the weak "princess"?
(UTENA instinctively moves in a little closer to the group,
and shouts)
UTENA
I challenge you to a duel!
(SAIONJI lets out a reflexive laugh)
SAIONJI
You? Duel? I don't even know who
you are. (Pause.) Let me see your
ring fingers.
(UTENA shows him her hands) Ahhhh…
So you are the fabled fifth
duelist. Very well, after the
school day ends, meet me in the
dueling forest in the center of the
school grounds.
WAKABA
You mean, the forbidden forest that
no one except the Council can enter
on fear of expulsion?
SAIONJI
Quite right, little one. But those
who wear the Rose Signet, and only
those who wear the Rose Signet, are
allowed entrance to the arena
within the forest. Please come
prepared to duel. I will be
waiting, Ms…
UTENA
Utena. Utena Tenjou.
SAIONJI
All right, Ms. Utena, I'll see you
then. And, please, when you lose,
don't cry.
(SAIONJI, ANTHY, and TOUGA exit)
WAKABA
Why did you do that Utena? That
guy's like the best swordsman on
campus, except maybe the president.
You're going to be killed!
UTENA
I can't just watch a girl get beat
up like that! Guys like that make
me sick!
WAKABA
But you promised me you'd only be
my prince. And I thought I showed
you that I would be willing to be
your princess. And now you cheat on
me with someone else? I hate you
Utena! You're so stupid!
(WAKABA runs off sobbing)
UTENA
Wakaba, wait up, I didn't mean it
like that. What I meant was...
SCENE TWO: STUDENT COUNCIL CHAMBER
(TOUGA enters from the center. MIKI and JURI enter from
various points when TOUGA calls roll. SAIONJI and ANTHY enter
last)
TOUGA
I call this meeting of the Student
Council to order. Miki Kaoru?
MIKI
Here.
TOUGA
Juri Arisugawa?
JURI
Here.
TOUGA
Kyouichi Saionji?
SAIONJI
Here.
TOUGA
The Bride of the Roses?
ANTHY
Present, sir.
FOR THE REVOLUTION OF THE WORLD
COUNCIL (MINUS ANTHY)
SUCH AS IF A CHICK DOES NOT BREAK
OUT OF ITS SHELL
IT WILL DIE WITHOUT REALIZING ITS
TRUE WORTH
WE ARE THE CHICK; AND OUR SHELL IS
THE WORLD
IF WE CANNOT BREAK OUT OF OUR OWN
WORLDLY SHELL
WE WILL DIE WITHOUT REALIZING OUR
POWER
WE MUST CRACK ITS SHELL! WE MUST
NOT DIE!
FOR THE REVOLUTION… OF THE WORLD
FOR THE REVOLUTION… OF THE WORLD!
SAIONJI
WE WHO ARE THE CHOSEN ONES…
WE WHO GRASP FOR SOMETHING ETERNAL
JURI
WE WHO ARE THE CHOSEN ONES…
WE WHO SEARCH FOR SOME MIRACULOUS
POWER
MIKI
WE, THE CHOSEN ONES… WHO SEARCH FOR
A SHINING THING.
TOUGA
NOW TAKE UP ARMS IN ORDER TO OBTAIN
THE ROSE BRIDE FOR OURSELVES.
ANTHY
NOW, TRY TO ENGAGE YOURSELVES UNTO
ME.
FOR I HOLD THE KEY TO THE CASTLE
FLOATING UP IN THE SKY.
ONLY I GRANT THE POWER OF
REVOLUTION…
ONLY I GRANT IT TO THE VICTOR…
TOUGA
Your treatment of the Rose Bride
has been rather harsh recently,
Saionji. You may want to rethink
it.
JURI
Yes, Saionji. Our privileges do not
include using the Bride as your own
personal plaything. One would
hardly think that could be used to
obtain revolution.
SAIONJI
Ha! Just remember, all of you! If
you wish it, we may duel again.
After all, I am the victor of the
duels. If you wish it, I can beat
you all again.
TOUGA
CURRENT victor. Speaking of which,
that new transfer Utena. I could
have sworn I heard her challenge
you to a duel.
You should be careful. Losing the
Bride to someone not of the Council
may make Ends of the World very
unhappy.
MIKI
That's right Touga! And our most
recent letters from them for told
someone not of the Council would be
appearing soon to offer a
challenge.
SAIONJI
She's common garbage. Not someone
of my caliber should be concerned
about. Right, Anthy?
ANTHY
TRULY, I BELONG TO YOU, MY DEAR
LORD SAIONJI.
YOU MAY DO WHAT YOU WISH WITH ME AS
THAT IS A PART OF THE RULES.
I CANNOT GO AGAINST WHAT EVER MY
MASTER WISHES.
THE MARK OF THE ROSE COMMANDS THAT
I FOLLOW HIM EVEN TO THE DEPTHS OF
HELL
SAIONJI
So you see, my dear friend, that I
can't help it if that's how she
feels.
JURI
How she feels?
MIKI
How she feels?
TOUGA
Keep in mind that even you are not
invincible. You can lose those
feelings as quickly as you gained
them.
SAIONJI
That will never happen. Come,
Anthy!
ANTHY
Yes, my Lord Saionji.
ANTHY and SAIONJI exit
COUNCIL:
WE WHO ARE THE CHOSEN ONES…
WE WHO GRASP FOR SOMETHING ETERNAL
WE WHO ARE THE CHOSEN ONES…
WE WHO SEARCH FOR SOME MIRACULOUS
POWER
WE, THE CHOSEN ONES… WHO SEARCH FOR
A SHINING THING.
NOW TAKE UP ARMS IN ORDER TO OBTAIN
THE ROSE BRIDE FOR OURSELVES.
FOR THE REVOLUTION… OF THE WORLD
FOR THE REVOLUTION… OF THE WORLD
SCENE 3: THE ENTRANCE TO THE STAIRCASE
WAKABA
UTENAAAAAA! Don't go don't go don't
go! You can't go! You'll get
killed!
UTENA
It's alright; I'll be fine. It's
just a duel. If I get hurt, it'll
be fine. Besides, it's only a duel.
It's not like we're using real
swords. (moves closer to WAKABA and
gives her a hug, then grabs her
hands) Go back to the dorms and
wait for me and I'll tell you how
it goes, okay?
WAKABA
Okay. (gives UTENA a little kiss on
the cheek) Be careful, though. I've
heard the Vice President can be a
real jerk.
WAKABA runs off
UTENA
(looks around the area and walks up
to a small pond. She takes a seat
and notices a little lever to the
side of her) I wonder what this
does? (She pulls it and a small
droplet of water falls off the
lever and on her ring. Her hand
lurches back) Ahhh! That's cold!
Scenery changes dramatically as UTENA looks towards the
"gate" created and hands suddenly grab her and pull her off
stage.
UTENA will meander through various entrances and exits
through the next song while the CHORUS follows her as though
an invisible force is moving her
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
CHORUS
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
YOU ARE BORN, YOU ARE BAPTIZED, AND
THEN YOU ARE DEAD
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
WHAT IS MY OWN BIRTH?
ABSOLUTE BIRTH
APOCALYPSE BIRTH
A WET-NURSE AND A MIDWIFE TRAVEL A
DARK DESERT
HEADING TOWARDS A REAL GOLD-GILDED
SHANGRI-LA
CAUSING DAY AND NIGHT TO GO INTO
REVERSE
HEADING TOWARDS A TIME-GILDED LOST
PARADISE
DARKNESS OVER SODOM
DARKNESS OVER LIGHT
DARKNESS OVER YONDER
DARKNESS HAVING NO END
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPSE
ABSOLUTE DESTINY APOCALYPTIC
DARKNESS
APOCALYPSE DESTINY ABSOLUTE DESTINY
APOCALYPSE
DESTINY ABSOLUTE APOCALYPSE
ABSOLUTE DESTINY
ABSOLUTE APOCALYPSE DESTINY
APOCALYPSE ABSOLUTE (ECHO)
(UTENA ends at the top of the staircase she's been ascending.
She looks around and notices SAIONJI in full dueling regalia
standing across the way from her and ANTHY, in her Rose Bride
gown, standing above them)
SCENE 4 - DUELING ARENA
UTENA
(looking up and all around) What is
this place? Where are we? How is
that castle up there?
SAIONJI
Do you truly not know what any of
this is? You amuse me more and more
little girl.
But I have not time for idle
chitchat. Come, Anthy! Prepare us
for the duel!
ANTHY
Yes, my Lord Saionji.
(ANTHY places a rose in Saionji's shirt lapel then move
toward UTENA. She looks to her, smiles, and while placing the
rose in her coat lapel, says)
UTENA
This rose scent... It's the same as
my prince's...
ANTHY
In order to win this duel, you must
knock the rose off of your
opponents lapel. Here you are. I
wish you luck.
(Upon hearing those words, SAIONJI takes off over to her,
pulls her close to him and shakes her violently, saying)
SAIONJI
You dare to wish someone luck other
than me?! You wretched little
bitch!
(SAIONJI pushes her off him and moves in to smack her, and
UTENA moves in between them)
UTENA
I hate to interupt this lovers'
quarrel, but we have a duel to
fight.
SAIONJI
Lovers? She's simply my Rose Bride.
She's a prize you get for winning
the duels, nothing more. And here,
let me show you another... Anthy!
My sword!
ANTHY
Yes, my Lord Saionji.
ANTHY moves back to her opening spot between the two
duellists and SAIONJI follows her up.
This next bit of song precludes a sword being pulled out of
ANTHY's body. She is the sheath for the Sword of Dios and
thus it must be pulled out of her.
THE SWORD OF DIOS
ANTHY
O CASTLE OF ILLUSIONS
OH SWORD OF DIOS THAT SLEEPS WITHIN
ME
HARKEN UNTO THY MASTER AND REVEAL
On the next line, SAIONJI pulls the sword out of ANTHY's body
and finishes the incantation.
SAIONJI
THE POWER TO BRING REVOLUTION UNTO
THE WORLD
UTENA
What's going on?
SAIONJI
You think of it as you think of the
castle above. It's just another
trick of the light. Now, fight!
Wedding bells chime followed by insertion of violence here
over the song. DIOS should appear at some point, smiling over
UTENA and there should be something held over from the SHADOW
GIRLS play that denotes him as her prince. DIOS should never
be acknowledged or pointed out by the other characters. He's
more of a spirit and his costume should denote that as such.
He's not truly of this world. The victor of the fight will be
UTENA. You can play with all sorts of near misses and almost
fatal mistakes. Also, at some point in the duel, the wooden
sword Utena is using should break (as it is wooden and
SAIONJI's is very much metal).
WHEN WHERE WHO WHICH
CHORUS
WHEN WHERE WHO WHICH
WHEN WHERE WHO WHICH
HIDDEN IN THE CAGE OF MEM'RIES ARE
POOLS OF BLOOD
HIDDEN IN THE CRADLE ARE A THOUSAND
YEARS OF BLISS
I AM AN ACTOR
LIKE THE ETERNAL SPHINX I CAN DO
NOTHING MORE THAN THINK NOTHING
NOTHING JUST THINK
THINKING OF THE SADNESS OF THE BODY
AS IT IS CREATED AND IT IS
DESTROYED
I AM THE HOLY ACTOR FOREVER CAST
INTO HELL
STANDING IN THE SCHISM OF LIGHT AND
DARKNESS
BUT I SHINE!
AND I BURN!
AND I SHOUT!
I AM FREE!
BORN INTO THIS WORLD
BORN INTO THIS MOMENT
I SHOUT JUST TO BE HEARD
DIALOGUE DURING THE DUEL
SAIONJI
You're fairly decent... For a girl
UTENA
That sword is real?
SAIONJI
You thought you could match wood
with the Sword of Dios? Ah, look
the noble "prince" is going to save
her beloved princess. How
sickeningly sweet. But I'm going to
end this so you'll never be a
nuisance again!
UTENA
Just try it!
SAIONJI
And still she tries.
Nearing the end of the song, they both ready their blades to
try and take off the others rose. As they near each other,
some sound to denote DIOS's magical help should sound, with a
blackout occuring after and rose petals fall. SAIONJI laughs
heartily until he notices Utena still has her rose. He falls
to the ground, in shock, and Anthy walks over to him
SAIONJI
I lost? That can't be! A wooden
stick beat me?
ANTHY
Please, feel better... Saionji.
Wedding bells chime again as ANTHY takes the sword from
SAIONJI (or picks it up) and offers it to UTENA. UTENA takes
the sword but is visibly stunned at all that has occurred.
THE ROSE BRIDE
ANTHY
NOW, I GIVE MY HAND TO YOU
NOW, I GIVE MY LIFE TO YOU
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
PLEASE, WILL YOU HOLD ME IN YOUR
ARMS FOREVER?
PLEASE, WILL YOU SAVE ME FROM ALL
HARMS FOREVER?
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
EVEN IF IT HURTS, THIS ROSEBUD WILL
ENDURE ANYTHING IF YOUR COURAGE AND
NOBILITY IS NEAR
NOW, BEGINS OUR BRAND NEW DAY
NOW, BEGINS OUR BRAND NEW LOVE
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
ANTHY
You are now the Victor of the Duels
and I am your Rose Bride. I wait to
serve your patiently, Lady Utena.
UTENA
"Lady"? I don't understand...
UTENA takes the sword from ANTHY and points towards the
heaven. As UTENA is bathed in a white light, DIOS appears
from the shadows and looks on, pleased.
ANTHY AND DIOS
RIGHT NOW, BEGINS OUR BRAND NEW DAY
RIGHT NOW, BEGINS OUR BRAND NEW
LOVE
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
DIOS
PLEASE GIVE IT, YOUR EVERYTHING,
LEAVE IT TO ME...
ANTHY AND DIOS
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
ANTHY
PLEASE TAKE IT, MY EVERYTHING, I
LEAVE TO YOU...
SCENE 5: Student Council Loft
SAIONJI is busy practicing his kendo strikes. TOUGA walks in
and SAIONJI quickly puts him on point
SAIONJI
Well, this is a pleasant surprise,
Mr. President.
TOUGA
I just thought I'd see how my good
friend was fairing after he'd been
beaten by "common garbage".
SAIONJI
Friend? I had no idea we were still
that close.
He takes TOUGA off point and begins running drills again
SAIONJI
So, what do I owe for the pleasure
I recieve from your company, Mr.
President?
TOUGA
It seems you've lost the Rose
Bride, Saionji. And not to one of
the Student Council. Ends of the
World are not happy about this and
they intend to fix this mistake...
SAIONJI
By having me duel again? Of course,
I will make sure...
TOUGA tosses a letter to SAIONJI
TOUGA
You may want to read over this
letter. It pertains to your plans.
SAIONJI
What? This can't be. You're to duel
next? But the Rose Bride... No,
Anthy, is mine forever more. It
says so in our relationship
journal.
TOUGA
Well...
TOUGA registers the journal comment
TOUGA
You keep a relationship journal?
Well, whatever, they won't be
pleased if you get in my way. So,
if you know what's best for you,
don't be a nuisance.
SAIONJI
Get in your way? Stay out of mine
and we'll be fine.
TOUGA exits one way; Saionji, the other
SCENE 6: OHTORI COURTYARD
UTENA walks in, minding her own business, when, out of
nowhere, WAKABA comes and jumps on her front. She latches on
with arms and legs and starts to "hen peck" kiss UTENA all
over the face, but never on the mouth.
WAKABA
Utena! I love you love you love you
love you...
UTENA gets very embarrassed and shakes her off and she falls
to the ground on her butt. She starts to wail loudly and
UTENA helps her up
UTENA
What are you doing, Wakaba? I'm not
that kind of girl...
ANTHY walks in and in a very ANTHY way, she hops on UTENA's
back and starts to cuddle up to her. UTENA gets even more
embarrassed.
UTENA
Anthy, what are you doing? This is
embarrassing. I don't swing this
way.
ANTHY
I see Ms. Shinohara doing it and I
just thought that was the proper
way to greet you, Lady Utena.
WAKABA
LADY Utena?! I thought you we're
going to become a prince, but MY
prince!
WAKABA approaches ANTHY territorially
ANTHY
She is my lady, as custom in
winning the...
UTENA steps in suddenly
UTENA
Student Council raffle... No, I
mean, I was the prize in a special
Student Council raffle.. I mean
she...
WAKABA
I don't care as long as you're
going to protect me always. I
shouldn't have any worries.
GIRL'S PURAGATIVE (LITERAL TRANSLATION)
WAKABA
A GIRL'S PET SHOULD BE A SIAMESE
CAT OR A MALTESE DOG
OUR HAIR IN BILLIONS OF CURLS, TIED
WITH RIBBONS
HUGGING CHEEK-TO-CHEEK, AREN'T WE
LOVELY?
A GIRL'S DREAM SHOULD BE TO DATE A
DREAMY GUY
WATCHING A MOVIE OR HAVING DINNER
TOGETHER
WITH OUR ARMS LINKED CHILDISHLY,
ISN'T IT ROMANTIC?
SOMEDAY, WE'LL ALL BE GROWN-UP
UNTIL THEN, PLEASE FORGIVE US THIS
GIRLS' SEASON
SURELY, SOMEDAY, WE'LL BE ALL GROWN
UP
BUT UNTIL THEN, IT'S GIRLS' SEASON
WE WANT TO BE TOLD THAT WE'RE
PRETTY
WE WANT TO BE TOLD THAT WE'RE CUTE
WE WANT TO BE TOLD "I LOVE YOU"
BECAUSE IT'S GIRLS' SEASON
WAKABA exits humming the final phrase of the song. UTENA sits
on steps and ANTHY sits next to her.
UTENA
Whew! That was close. Anthy, if you
could, try not to tell any one
about all this Rose Bride stuff. I
don't want to see you get hurt.
ANTHY
Very well, Lady Utena. I'll do
whatever you command of me.
UTENA
Fine then, stop with the "Lady"
stuff. I'm just Utena. I'm not
going to be like Saionji was.
ANTHY
But I must give you full respect
Lady Utena, as is the rule...
UTENA
As victor of the duels. I know, I
know. Anthy, may I ask you
something?
ANTHY
What is it, Lady Utena?
UTENA
Do you like being the Rose Bride?
ANTHY
Do you like me being the Rose
Bride?
UTENA
No, I don't think anyone should
have to do anything people tell
them to.
ANTHY
All right, I don't like being the
Rose Bride.
UTENA
Then why not quit?
ANTHY
Because I can't. It's a duty I must
fulfill.
UTENA
Why do you have to do it? Isn't
there someone else out there who
can do the same thing you can do
and take your place?
ANTHY
Well, wouldn't you then want to
save them, Lady Utena?
UTENA
What? Oh, well, yeah, I...
UTENA pauses a minute
UTENA
You know what, Anthy? I'm hungry.
Wanna go get lunch?
ANTHY
Whatever you wish, Lady Utena.
UTENA
What do you want to do, Anthy?
ANTHY
Let's go get lunch, Lady Utena.
UTENA and ANTHY exit
SCENE 6: The Dueling Arena (dark)
No one is one stage. Suddenly, the click of a cell phone
sounds, and a voice comes from above.
MYSTERIOUS VOICE
Saionji, the Rose Bride is waiting
for you at the Dueling Arena.
Hang up, numbers dial, phone rings.
MYSTERIOUS VOICE
Utena, the Rose Bride has been
kidnapped and awaits your rescue.
The voice laughs and SAIONJI appears from the stair case,
sword in hand.
SAIONJI
Anthy! Anthy! I knew our love was
too strong to be simply forgotten.
SAIONJI runs off looking for her. UTENA enters from the
staircase.
UTENA
Anthy! Saionji! Where are you?
Saionji! Anthy!
SAIONJI appears and stops at the sight of UTENA. UTENA
notices SAIONJI has his sword and tries to leave but SAIONJI
stops her and motions for her to step back into the grounds.
SAIONJI
The prince makes a valiant return.
So, where is my bride?
UTENA stands there dumbfounded. He gets into an attack
stance.
SAIONJI
My patience is wearing thin, woman.
Where is my Bride?!
TOUGA appears in the entry way
TOUGA
Saionji! Don't you know it's
forbidden for anyone not engaged
and not dueling to enter the Arena?
SAIONJI
SILENCE! I don't care about
anything but getting back Anthy!
And I'll do anything to get her
again.
SAIONJI makes a dash towards UTENA, and TOUGA moves in to
block UTENA from receiving the attack. TOUGA slumps into
UTENA's arms.
TOUGA
Your prince... Was he a guy like
me?
TOUGA falls unconscious, UTENA falls to the ground to hold
him, and SAIONJI falls to his knees, flabbergasted about what
he did. Meanwhile, ANTHY appears at the entrance to the
Arena, just staring.
BLACKOUT
SCENE 7: STUDENT COUNCIL QUARTERS
COUNCIL W/O SAIONJI
For the Revolution of the World!
MIKI and JURI sit at a table while TOUGA stands at the
balcony looking out. He's bandaged up from the wound he just
received.
TOUGA
As is widely known, Vice President
Kyoichi Saionji was expelled today
for weilding a weapon and causing
bodily harm to another student.
JURI
And he got every bit of it that he
deserved. Injuring another member
of the Student Council, and the
President no less. That's what you
get if you don't follow the rules
of the duels.
MIKI
Touga, this isn't apart of some
larger plan, is it? You showing up
there and knowing they would be
there could hardly be a
coincidence.
TOUGA
That's my secret, cute, little
genius boy.
MIKI
Eh... Well, anyone have any more
items for this particular meeting?
Juri?
JURI
Nothing, except I would hate to see
Touga fail the same way Saionji
did. Remember that nothing is
eternal, not achievements, not
friendship... not love.
TOUGA
Well, it's nice to see that Juri
can confess her love to someone
other than herself.
JURI
Asshole.
TOUGA
Very well. I'll keep that in mind
since I don't plan to fail. Meeting
adjourned.
SCENE 8: Ohtori Courtyard
UTENA and WAKABA enter with ANTHY trailing behind them
WAKABA
...expelled with no chance of
reentry. Well, one way, but I hear
the headmaster's a real jerk. I've
never seen him though.
UTENA
Does anyone know why?
WAKABA
Rumor has it that he tried to kill
Touga with a sword for bad-mouthing
him around the school for what he
was doing to Anthy.
TOUGA appears, on crutches, and hobbles over to a table.
UTENA
Mr. President! Are... Are you okay?
TOUGA laughs a little
TOUGA
Of course I am. And, please, call
me Touga.
WAKABA
Well, heh heh, I better get
going... I've got Algeometry... I
mean Chemology... I mean, I gotta
go!
WAKABA pushes UTENA closer to the table, gives her a good
wink, and grabs ANTHY on the way out.
WAKABA
C'mon Anthy! You can tutor me!
ANTHY
But, I must stay with Lady Utena.
WAKABA
Not this time! Even ladies need
their private time! Good luck,
Utena!
WAKABA and ANTHY exit leaving an embarrassed UTENA and a
pleased TOUGA.
UTENA
Uh... I... Uh... Well, Mr. Presi...
I mean, Touga... What brings you to
this part of the campus? I thought
you had your own living...
TOUGA
You bring me to these parts, Utena.
I couldn't sleep, couldn't think,
the only thing I've had on my mind
since the accident is your words
about your prince. Tell me more
about him.
UTENA
How do you know about my prince?
TOUGA
You're certainly not an unpopular
girl in these parts, Utena. News
travels fast when a girl arrives
claiming princely hood is for her.
Especially when its solely to meet
her prince. So, tell me about him.
UTENA
He's noble and caring...
Lights fade to a psuedo darkness, like the beginning of the
show, as the same show goes on again, only this time UTENA
enters and the SHADOW GIRLS join in the song on the chorus.
STRONGLY AND NOBLY (LITERAL TRANSLATION)
DON'T WORRY; YOU'RE NOT ALONE.
BECAUSE I GAVE YOU MY POWER,
YOU CAN STRONGLY AND NOBLY KEEP
LIVING.
IT'S OKAY; SOLITUDE DOESN'T SUIT
YOU.
I'M ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE,
SO DESIRE TO LIVE STRONGLY AND
NOBLY.
A SMALL PERSON ENDURING SADNESS;
DON'T WORRY... IT'S OKAY...
STRONGLY AND NOBLY...
IF YOU NEVER LOSE THOSE NOBLE
FEELINGS OF YOURS,
WE'LL GREET THE TIME WE MEET AGAIN,
WON'T WE?
IF THE SEASONS CHANGE AND THE ROSES
BLOOM SEVEN TIMES OVER,
LET'S INVITE YOU TO ONLY OUR ENDS
OF THE WORLD...
DON'T WORRY... IT'S OKAY...
STRONGLY AND... NOBLY...
DON'T WORRY... IT'S OKAY...
STRONGLY AND... NOBLY...
TOUGA hobbles over to UTENA at the end of the song, and
embraces her hard
UTENA
This scent... It's the same...
TOUGA
Utena. I'm the prince you seek. At
last, I've found you!
UTENA
You, Touga? But how can that be?
TOUGA
Weren't you saved by a dashing man
from drowning in a river 10 years
ago?
UTENA
That's true... But wouldn't you...
TOUGA
Uh uh.. Shhhh..
TOUGA holds her close
TOUGA
And in order to make sure nothing
happens to you, I must do one
thing.
UTENA
Anything, my prince.
TOUGA holds her embracingly under her chin, stares deep into
her eyes, and says...
TOUGA
I challenge you to a duel. Meet me
in the dueling arena at sundown.
LIGHT SHIFT into a shortened rendition of ABSOLUTE DESTINY
APOCOLYPSE, just enough so UTENA can get her dueling gear on
and ANTHY can get into sword pulling place.
UTENA
For the revolution of the world!
UTENA gets into starting position, roses go into lapels,
bells chime, duel begins!
DUEL SONG 2 - SPELL OF SEALING
CHORUS
THE UNWRITTEN SEAL SPELL
IRON DISGUISE OF MISFORTUNE
THE BLUE SKY; THE SEA;
FURTHERMORE A WIND BLOWING THE
PLAINS;
RABBITS;
EVEN THE RIVER FLOWING TIME
IS THE ERA WHICH DOES NOT CHANGE
ALL HUMANS ARE A "MAKE-BELIEVE
GAME"
WITH BLOOD AS ITS DESCRIPTOR
EVEN HUMANITY IS DROWNED IN LESSONS
EVEN AS THE WORDS OF HUMANITY
BECOME ITSELF IT WILL NEVER CHANGE!
SEEN IN THE DAY, NOT SEEN IN THE
NIGHT
SEEN IN THE NIGHT, AND NOT IN THE
DAY
THE ANAGRAM
THE RIDDLE OF SPEECH,
THE MASK OF WORDS
WHOSE ORIGIN IS...
DICH!
DIALOGUE DURING DUEL
UTENA
How do I fight you, you're my
prince.
TOUGA
If you don't fight, you'll be
giving up the one you swore to
protect. Is that your only purpose,
protecting when it feels good to
protect?
UTENA
No, it's just.. I don't know..
TOUGA
Let me free you from your burden.
Come, strike me, I'll protect you
forever..
UTENA runs at him, but before striking, she drops her sword.
She falls into his arms and his pushes her out and holds his
sword up.
BLACKOUT - Rose petals fall.
TOUGA
There you are; I've freed you from
your pain. This is what you wanted
your prince to do?
UTENA crumples to the ground. ANTHY walks up to her and gives
her a nice, friendly pat on the back.
ANTHY
Please, feel better... Utena.
The bells chime.
TOUGA
Come, Anthy. It's time to leave.
UTENA
Wait! Anthy, I thought you told me
you hated being the Rose Bride and
you wanted free of it. Didn't you
tell me that?
TOUGA
Huh! Anthy, do you like being the
Rose Bride?
ANTHY
Do you like me being the Rose
Bride, Lord Touga?
TOUGA
Why, yes I do, Anthy.
ANTHY
Then, yes, I'll follow you wherever
you go, Lord Touga. I am your Rose
Bride.
TOUGA
So, you see, the Rose Bride is
little more than a doll. As many
people can be... Keep that in mind,
my little princess.
TOUGA walks over, gives her a kiss on the forehead, as Dios
did before. He walks off and ANTHY follows right behind.
THE NAMELESS ROSE (LITERAL TRANSLATION)
UTENA
MY DREAM IS SCATTERING AWAY
MY PERSON IS RUNNING AWAY
MY TIME IS FADING AWAY
THE FLOWERLESS ROSE CAN'T BE LOVED.
EVEN THOUGH I FEEL IT,
I WON'T REACH IT.
EVEN THOUGH I SWEAR IT,
I CAN'T PROTECT.
EVEN THOUGH I AM PRAYING,
I WON'T BE ANSWERED.
TOMORROW WON'T COME FOR THE
FLOWERLESS ROSE.
FLOWING BLOODY TEARS
FILLING WITH BLOODY RAGE,
RUNNING AROUND AS BLOODY
REPENTANCE,
THE FLOWERLESS ROSE IS A WITHERED
DESTINY.
EVEN IF I REGRET, IT WON'T RETURN.
EVEN IF I HOPE, THERE'S NOTHING AT
ALL.
EVEN IF I SCREAM,
I CAN'T BE HEARD.
THE FLOWERLESS ROSE BLOOMS IN
SOLITUDE.
MY DREAM IS SCATTERING AWAY
MY PERSON IS RUNNING AWAY
MY TIME IS FADING AWAY
THE FLOWERLESS ROSE CAN'T BE LOVED.
THE FLOWERLESS ROSE...
SCENE 10 STUDENT COUNCIL ROOM
JURI and MIKI sit at a table. MIKI working on something, JURI
waiting for something.
MIKI
Did you watch the duel, Juri?
JURI
I did.
Silence.
MIKI
How do you feel about it?
JURI
Touga won. That's all that matters,
isn't it?
Silence.
MIKI
Don't you think it was a little
undignified, what Touga did to
Utena?
Silence.
JURI
What has to be done, has to be
done. For the sake of revolution.
MIKI
I feel a little dirty participating
in something that can cut people so
deep. Play a game for the chance of
obtaining some intangible thing is
one thing, but...
TOUGA enter with ANTHY
TOUGA
Well, Mr. Secretary, you have every
right to resign from the game and
from your chance at bringing
revolution. The choice has, is, and
always will be yours.
JURI
Well, I for one will be here till
its all played out.
JURI moves over to ANTHY
JURI
I just want to find out what sort
of secrets are locked hidden away
in this girl.
ANTHY
Well, Juri, you must win me to find
out.
ANTHY walks over and stands next to TOUGA
MIKI
Well, I guess I'm in. No point in
not finishing what your start.
TOUGA
Very well. Now that we are all on
the same page, the new letters from
Ends of the World came.
TOUGA passes out letters to each of them
MIKI
Ends of the World will show
themselves soon?
TOUGA
According to the letters, they
will. After the next duel, they
will appear to us.
JURI
Very well. I challenge you...
TOUGA
I decline. I'm not finished playing
my game yet. And you don't want me
to be unhappy, do you, Juri?
JURI
No, I don't, Touga.
TOUGA
Trust me. When the time is right,
I'll tell you. There's someone I
want to crush first.
JURI
Very well, Touga. If I didn't love
you...
TOUGA brushes that off and moves to exit.
TOUGA
Come Anthy!
ANTHY
Yes, Lord Touga.
They exit.
MIKI
What do you see in him, Juri?
JURI
I don't know. Underneath all that
malice, he's a nice guy. I just
know it.
They exit
SCENE 11 - Ohtori Courtyard
UTENA enters in full schoolgirl uniform and sits on the
stairs, staring out to the sky.
GIRL'S PURAGATIVE (slow)
UTENA
A GIRL'S DREAM SHOULD BE TO DATE A
DREAMY GUY
WATCHING A MOVIE OR HAVING DINNER
TOGETHER
WITH OUR ARMS LINKED CHILDISHLY,
ISN'T IT ROMANTIC?
SOMEDAY, WE'LL ALL BE GROWN-UP
UNTIL THEN, PLEASE FORGIVE US THIS
GIRLS' SEASON
TOUGA and ANTHY enter. TOUGA moves over to UTENA, ANTHY stays
at the table.
TOUGA
So, how's my princess doing? You
look georgeous in those clothes. A
lot better than those ugly boy
clothes you had on.
UTENA looks up and smiles weakly at him
UTENA
I do, don't I? I feel a lot better.
WAKABA
Utena! Utena!! UTENA!!!
WAKABA comes running in.
WAKABA
There were some girls who were
saying... that you were... in
girl's clothes. I... called them
liars.. and chased them.. off but..
What happened? Where's the Utena I
know?
UTENA
That Utena isn't here anymore. She
left when she couldn't protect what
she swore to.
WAKABA
What about me? Didn't you swear
that I was your one true love and
that you'd protect me always?
UTENA
No, Wakaba, you swore that on your
own. I didn't say anything.
WAKABA starts to cry, but the sight of ANTHY catches her.
WAKABA
This is all your fault, isn't it?
Make Utena be the way she was! Do
it! Bring her back!
WAKABA closes in and smackes ANTHY a good one across the
face. ANTHY collapses to the ground and WAKABA stares at her
hand in amazement. This awakens something in UTENA, and,
almost instinctively, she moves in on the one who hurt ANTHY
and gives her a smake across the face. WAKABA rears back from
the smack, and turns and gives UTENA one. WAKABA then lets
the extent of what's happened sink in, and she runs off
crying.
UTENA
Wakaba! Wait! I didn't mean that!
I'm sorry!
UTENA runs off after her. TOUGA chuckles to himself and turns
to leave from whence he came.
TOUGA
Anthy, come!
TOUGA leaves but ANTHY remains.
PROTECT ME, SOMEONE
ANTHY
MY HEART IS STARTING TO GET HOT.
THE FROST COLLAPSED,
AND SOMETHING DISSOLVED;
IN THE CENTER OF THE EYELIDS ARE
FORGOTTEN TEARS.
THAT PERSON'S WORDS ARE TREMBLING
BEFORE MY EYES.
AKIO appears in the shadows, watching her intently.
ANTHY
I WANT PROTECTION
EMBRACE ME ONCE AGAIN
I WANT GENTLENESS
LET ME LEAN ON THAT SHOULDER
THE STRENGTH TO GRASP YOUR
HAPPINESS,
YOUR SOLITUDE AND FIGHTING
NOBILITY.
NOW, I WILL CHANGE INTO MYSELF.
I WANT PROTECTION
EMBRACE ME ONCE AGAIN
I WANT GENTLENESS LET ME LEAN ON
THAT SHOULDER YOU ARE...
YOU ARE...
MY PRINCE FOR ONLY ME, SO...
ANTHY walks off towards TOUGA and UTENA comes running in.
UTENA
Anthy! Anthy!
AKIO comes out of the shadows.
AKIO
Who's making all that noise out
there?
UTENA stops short at the sight of AKIO.
UTENA
I'm sorry, sir. I'm only looking
for my friend. You wouldn't happen
to have seen a girl leave with a
guy going that way, would you?
AKIO shakes his head.
AKIO
Wait a minute, you're that new girl
in the High School causing all that
ruckus, aren't you? I've gotten all
sorts of notes in my office about
you. But the A.P.B. out on you said
you'd be dressed in boys clothes.
What happened, miss...?
UTENA
Utena Tenjou, sir. A lot of stuff
has gone on and I need to sort it
out. That's why I need to find my
friend. I don't mean to be rude,
but if you'll excuse me, mister...
AKIO
Headmaster Ohtori. Akio Ohtori.
UTENA
What?! You're our headmaster? I
don't believe it.
AKIO gets stern for a moment.
AKIO
Do you want to see me exert my
power, Ms. Tenjou?
UTENA gets still
UTENA
Uh, no, sir. I didn't mean anything
by that, it was...
AKIO lets out a heartly laugh.
AKIO
Of course not, Utena. I'm joking.
And please, call me Akio.
UTENA
Yes, sir, Akio, sir.
AKIO laughs.
AKIO
Now, go on and find your friend.
And if I see her, I'll tell her you
were looking for her.
UTENA
Thank you, Akio.
AKIO
And Utena?
UTENA
Yes, sir?
AKIO
Never lose your strength or courage
when facing any and all
adversity...
UTENA gives him a puzzled look, then takes off running.
STRONGLY, NOBLY (Jazz version)
AKIO
DON'T WORRY... IT'S OKAY...
STRONGLY AND... NOBLY...
DON'T WORRY... IT'S OKAY...
STRONGLY AND... NOBLY...
UTENA (O.S.)
Touga Kiryuu, I challenge you to a
duel!
AKIO smiles and exits stage
SCENE 12 - DUELING ARENA
Shortened version of ADA brings us up to the Arena. UTENA
comes in her girl uniform and a fencing foil borrowed from
somewhere. TOUGA is decked out in nice dueling costume.
TOUGA
Are you sure fighting your prince
will be the best thing for you to
do?
UTENA
I'm not dueling my prince. My
prince would never have wanted me
to act the way I was.
TOUGA
Very well. Anthy, my sword!
ANTHY
O CASTLE OF ILLUSIONS
OH SWORD OF DIOS THAT SLEEPS WITHIN
ME
HARKEN UNTO THY MASTER AND REVEAL
On the next line, TOUGA pulls the sword out of ANTHY's body
and finishes the incantation.
TOUGA
THE POWER TO BRING REVOLUTION UNTO
THE WORLD
Anthy prepares the two for the duel by giving them their
roses.
TOUGA
I won't go easy on you just because
you're a girl. And I'm not like my
compatriot who fought you with this
sword before. I realize it's more
than just a sword.
TOUGA takes ANTHY by the wrist and cuts her. Her blood falls
on the sword and it gives it a redish tint.
TOUGA
Alright... Shall we begin?
BELLS chime the fight start. Everytime TOUGA makes a swipe,
the force should push UTENA back and the swords making
contact should hurt UTENA. Imagine the sword being a
vibrating sword, that's already warm due to the vibration
DUEL SONG 3 - NOTHING MORE CAN BE SAID
CHORUS
NO ONE HAS ANYTHING TO SAY
THERE IS NOTHING TO BE SAID
ONLY WITH THE SECLUDED DARKNESS
KNOWN AS YESTERDAY
ONLY WITH THE FLASH OF A MOMENT
KNOWN AS NOW
ONLY WITH THE DARKNESS WAITING FOR
TOMORROW'S LIGHT, IN THE THEATER
I CAN BECOME ANYTHING
I CAN BECOME ANYONE
ONLY WITH THE SECLUDED DARKNESS
KNOWN AS MEMORY
ONLY WITH THE FLASH OF A MOMENT
KNOWN AS CREATION
ONLY WITH THE DARKNESS WAITING FOR
TOMORROW'S LIGHT,
IN THE THEATER DANCING;
THE PERFORMERS WHO WORE THE MASK OF
TIME
IN THE ANCIENT CONTINENTAL THEATER
DANCING;
THOSE OF YOU WHO COME ON THE MILKY
WAY RAILROAD
ALL OF YOUR ASPIRATIONS, THREE OF
THE SEVEN ANCIENT WONDERS
DIOS appears, silently cheering on UTENA with his presence.
AND SO AS A STAR,
SO AS A FIREFLY,
SHINING AS BORN,
SHINE THEN DISAPPEAR
SHINING AS BORN,
SHINE THEN DISAPPEAR
WE WHO WILL SHINE AND DISAPPEAR
SHINING AS BORN,
NOW SHINE AND DISAPPEAR!
NOW SHINE AND DISAPPEAR,
THE SELF-SPHERE
SHINING AS BORN,
IT HAS SHONE THEN DISAPPEARED SHONE
AND DISAPPEARED,
THE SELF-STAR
THE EVENING STAR,
THE SELF-STAR
SHINE THEN DISAPPEAR, FIREFLY STAR!
No dialogue during this duel other than the sounds of UTENA
getting her clothes ripped, her sword cutting cut shorter,
and her screaming when bad things happen.
Once DIOS appears, though, the mood changes, and UTENA starts
winning. ANTHY stands like a statue, but when UTENA turns the
tide, something starts welling inside her. She looks up (or
over) and sees DIOS for the first time and her eyes get wide.
It's at this time that UTENA lands the final cut on TOUGA,
DIOS grants his magical blessing, BLACKOUT. Rose petals fall.
Lights up.
TOUGA
I... lost? I had the power of Dios
and I lost? This can't be...
ANTHY
Please, feel better... Touga.
Bells chime.
UTENA
Well, shall we go, Anthy?
ANTHY
Yes, Lady Utena and...
THANK YOU, LOVE
ANTHY
Thank you for your courage
UTENA
Thank you for your tears
ANTHY
Thank you for your victory
UTENA
Thank you for your smile.
ANTHY
I'll always continue to win
I'll always believe in your victory
Strongly and nobly,
Wearing gentleness in my body,
Let's live on...
UTENA
I will never again forget myself
The reclaimed heart is your
companion
I'll do whatever you wish
My body and heart are devoted to
you
Let's live on...
Thank you for your courage
ANTHY
Thank you for your tears
UTENA
Thank you for your victory
ANTHY
Thank you for your smile
UTENA AND ANTHY
Thank you for your love
ANTHY
Thank you, my Prince
UTENA
Thank you, my Bride
ANTHY AND UTENA
I love you forever
Before the big musical, happy stinger in the happy, sappy
song, AKIO and TOUGA appear at the center of stairs.
AKIO
Very good job. I don't think I
could have done it better myself.
TOUGA
Thank you, Akio. Coming from you,
it's a big compliment.
AKIO
Heh. Are you still ready to follow
my plan?
TOUGA
I'll follow you... to the "Ends of
the World".
Music comes back in with flowers petals and happiness while
TOUGA and AKIO look on on the embrace taking place between
UTENA and ANTHY.
END ACT I
Assembly of Script Copyright 2004 Timothy O'Neal