Many thanks to those who bothered to review! I found it rather hilarious that almost all the reviewers had asked when Toya was going to show. Do all the other stories start with him? But he will show; don't worry about that, only a little later. I want to focus more on Aki and Aya first. My thanks again.

This will take a little time. It's been a while since I've read the manga, and now I've forgotten many aspects.

It was quite a walk that now befell Aya, and it didn't help that she had no idea where she was going, or that the man walking in front of her hadn't spoken except to order her around. The minute she'd laid eyes on him, walking up behind the curtain, she disliked him. He still wore his hood up, covering his face, but she guessed by his voice how old he was. He was a grouchy person, and she found it ridiculous that he would boss her around when he could not be more than a few years older than her.

Then again, she thought suddenly, she was a slave now, hurled into the world of service and inferiority, with nowhere else to go. Then the man would be…….her master? The idea did not sit well in her. But it seemed like the case, unfortunately, especially since she was now totally alone. Her home, her life, her family- Aki, all was taken from her.

She slowed her steady stride as she tried to think of what had taken place in the desert just a few days ago. But the reality hadn't set in yet; she could only come up with shouts, fighting, her father, her mother, and the bandits who attacked them in the night; then nothing, when someone must've hit her.

She reached up her hand to check for a bump on her head and felt her other hand rise, too. She'd woken up in chains after that ordeal, being stared down by a smelly dog on a cart that was heading into the city. The guards had kept them on, and now her wrists were red and chafed, and she itched to have them off.

"Hey, keep up."

Aya looked up to the boy leading the way, who hadn't bothered turning around to say the command. Irritated, she stuck her tongue out and sped up, avoiding an enthusiastic guy attempting to thrust some fruit at her.

"Where are we going?" She asked for the tenth time, and received no answer. She sighed, knowing he would not tell her, and continued to look around at the places she passed.

They eventually came upon a long, open road, separate from the city, leading out to a large castle surrounded by many fields. Aya stared in wonderment, amazed by the sheer size of it, when she noticed the boy turning on to that path.

"Wait, are we going there?"

"Hurry it up, girl," her guide answered irately. She heard him heave an annoyed sigh and suddenly her wonder was lost.

"Hey, I'm the one in chains here, jerk. Don't get mad at me because I'm curious," she huffed.

"You're a slave. Slaves are supposed to be obedient, loyal, and quiet," he ground out, she saw his shoulders tense.

"I didn't want to be a slave. My group was attacked and I was taken. I didn't have a choice!"

"Well, that's too bad!"

The boy wheeled around, causing his hood to fall to his shoulders. Aya had been right. He was not more than eighteen, at the most, and was not bad looking. But his features took on an unpleasant grimace.

"You're stuck here now. We bothered to go and save you from all those sick pimps back there, and I'm not going to have a little snot-nosed brat annoy me until we get to the castle! I know you wouldn't prefer being back at the slave auction, so show some appreciation, will ya?!"

He twisted on his heel and marched toward the caste, not bothering with his hood anymore, leaving Aya to glower at his receding back. She satisfied herself with hanging back, close enough to be within hearing range, but far enough to get agitated ex.'s on the boy's head.

All too slowly they made it to the front gate of the castle. It was monstrous, and like so many stereotypical castles, it had wrapped around its base a wide moat, filled to the brim, and so dark it was impossible to fathom its depth. The large bridge was down of course, allowing farmers, villagers and other people to and fro over it. The two crossed over and entered a spacious courtyard, packed with common folk going along with their business. Ahead was an archway leading to another smaller area. Not as many people were there; a stable was off to the left, where several stable hands were tending to their wards, and to the right was an armory. Another building had been erected beside it, where a brutish blacksmith was pounding away.

They passed by in a flurry, up a dozen broad steps, and into a magnificent hall. The walls were several stories high, covered with many rich draperies and coats of arms. They'd passed several finely dressed guards on the way in, and here they stood two every other pillar, still as stone, but tense and watchful. They encountered no on in the hall, but walked until the end, where a dais rose from the stone. Atop it was placed two thrones; they were plain, but strongly made and emblazoned with the same insignia sculpted on the knight's silver breast plates. To the right was a grand table, able to seat many guests, decorated with bouquets and plates and goblets. All around there were servant lying in wait to be called. Aya and the boy stopped in front of the thrones, and Aya noticed for the first time the figure sitting serenely on the one to the right.

It was a young woman; tall, poised, and beautiful. She looked down to Aya with a gentle smile before turning to the boy, who swiftly took several steps forward and bent onto one knee. Behind the throne stood a rather young girl; hands together, head down, and dressed in a simple yet charming white dress.

"Welcome," said the woman. "I'm sorry for you troubles, Aya. This must have been a tiring day. My name is Suzumi. I trust Yuhi has already introduced himself?"

Yuhi straightened up and moved to stand next to the throne.

"Not quite," he muttered so that only Suzumi heard. His face was set in a stony frown, gazing with distaste at the raggedly girl.

But Aya had had enough.

She lunged forward, making the guards by the walls twitch warily. "What the hell is going on!? Why did you guys help me? What am I doing here? Where's Aki? She shouted at the top of her voice, glaring angrily at the people she stood in front of. She knew she was being very bold, but she had nothing else to lose.

Yuhi jerked forward, looking furious, but Suzumi held out a hand to her side, stopping his movement.

"Apparently he didn't fill you in on anything," she said.

Yuhi shrugged grumpily, making Suzumi sigh. "This will take a while to tell you, Aya. Would you like to sit down?"

Aya blinked. Wasn't she the queen's servant? But there was nothing in her eyes except kindness.

"Uh…thank you."

Suzumi stood and walked with Yuhi to the table on the right while motioning for Aya to follow. As soon as she sat down Suzumi beckoned to the girl, who flitted over with a set of keys. Aya gently rubbed her newly freed wrists absently as some servants came up with drinks and fruit, and Yuhi ushered them and anyone else out when they finished.

"Now I can tell you everything, Aya; why we were there this morning, and why we bought you. Yes, we bought you," she said again, when Aya opened her mouth to speak. "And technically you are my servant, but you're not held to that whatsoever. So don't worry." Suzumi smiled at her, and Aya felt relief rush through her. She blushed slightly, embarrassed for feeling so worried, and took a drink from her goblet to hide it.

"Why did you help me, your majesty?" she finally asked.

"Because of what you are, Aya. And what you will become," the queen answered mysteriously. "You are a celestial maiden."

"A what?"

"A celestial maiden," Suzumi said again patiently, "a woman born from the heavens. There is a legend of this land about a group of maidens that came down to bathe in a lake. As they left their celestial robes by the shore, a young farmer saw them and stole one. He took the owner of it and forced her to marry him, and together they had children who shared her heavenly power. You are a descendant of that maiden."

Aya looked at her with a suspicion that she was joking, but she knew that would not add up. A celestial maiden? Simple nomad Aya? "How would you know I am a- one of these?"

"Because I am one as well," replied the queen bemusedly at Aya's gaping expression. "I can sense the power in other women who share it. And I sense it quite clearly in you."

"Th-that's impossible. I've never done anything special. Wouldn't I know?"

"Not if your celestial energy hasn't matured yet. There is no set age when you begin to show signs, and every celestial maiden's power is different. You may be well into your graying years before you feel a thing, and even then you might not. But rest assured, Aya. You are what you are, and you are not alone. We share the same blood, you and I. I'd like you to stay here to recuperate, if you wish it, and I will help you find your family."

Aya's head shot up. "Do you know where Aki is?"

"I'm sorry Aya," the queen said, and there was honest sorrow in her deep eyes. "I do not know who took you brother, and we could not risk more any more time there trying to get him as well."

That brought Aya's head down heavily, and she could only stare blankly at her newly freed hands. Silence stretched out, but not for long.

"That's it?"

Aya wearily lifted her eyes enough to see that irritating boy glowering at her from his spot next to Suzumi. The news of her brother took her energy like being chased by a desert cat.

"You don't have the decency to show some appreciation for everything Suzumi's done for you? We could have left you there, heading straight for some freaky brothel, but instead you're being given all of this, and you can't even be grateful? You can't even say thanks for us taking time to help a scrawny brat no matter IF you are a celestial maiden!"

Aya sat bolt straight in her seat, her weariness replaced by anger. Scrawny? "Hey, screw you, you insensitive jerk! I barely have a chance to let this all sink in and your complaining isn't helping! I am grateful, I owe you my life," she directed this at the queen, who smiled gently, "but I've lost my family and I don't know where my brother is." She slammed her hands on the table and leaned forward to glare better.

"You are in the castle of Suzumi's kingdom, and you are under her rule. You will be considered a noble as long as you're here, I can't stop that, but you WILL show the proper respect to everyone in my home. Surely the nomad tribes knew how to treat nobles."

"I know how to treat nobles fine!" She was a noble here? "What I don't need is some all mighty soldier boy growling at me when I don't bow at him every second! Back OFF!"

They were scowling at each other when a solitary soldier came in and bowed before the table, fist to chest, wisely choosing to ignore the blatant tension crackling around the room.

"What is it?" asked Suzumi.

"Your majesty, Atsuro asks for Lord Yuhi's presence on the wall."

Yuhi tore his glare to stand up straight.

I must take my leave of you, highness," he said with feigned calmness, never mind the throbbing vein in his forehead. He bowed and walked out with the soldier, leaving Aya and Suzumi alone with the other girl who, as soon as the door closed, sat down next to Suzumi.

"I have to apologize for Yuhi," Suzumi said. "My half-brother can be very protective of me."

Aya started. "He's your half-brother? Then…isn't he-"

"Legally he would be the king, yes. His brother was the king. But Yuhi has refused the thrown, and is content with being the Captain of our army and Prince of this castle."

That punk, the king? "But, why would he not want to be king?"

A sad smile replaced Suzumi's features. "My husband was killed in battle not long ago. It still bears down on him. He feels I'll do a better job of watching over the kingdom."

"I'm sorry," said Aya quietly.

"He was a very great man," said Suzumi, "and a noble ruler. The people loved him, as I did, and Yuhi doesn't think he can live up to that. But he's very supportive and kind in his heart. You'll see that as you get to know him."

"And he's a cutie," remarked the little girl dreamily.

Suzumi placed a hand on her shoulder. "Aya, this is Chidori. She's also a celestial maiden. She lives with her grandparents and younger brother in the castle."

"Hi! I like your fashion sense," said Chidori, peering over the table. Aya suddenly realized her state of dress and desperately tried to cover herself, curling into a ball on the chair.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Aya!," the queen said. "You must be uncomfortable. Chidori can show you your room. I shall see you later," added Suzumi, who spotted Yuhi stalking back in, and his face, if possible, was even stonier.

"Follow me," called Chidori, making for a corridor to the left. Aya took a few steps, then quickly turned and ran back to Suzumi.

"Thank you," she said, taking the queen's hands and falling to her knees. "I can't tell you how much I appreciate this, your majesty." She was startled when the hands she held pulled her up to stand.

"Please call me Suzumi. You're part of the family now, remember?" She cupped Aya's face gently with one hand. You can take a hot bath in your room, and you'll feel much better. Go now, child."

"Come on, Aya!"

With a teary smile, Aya reluctantly left the queen and followed Suzumi out.

xXx

"And this will be your room."

Aya held a gasp when Chidori opened the door to her room. It was larger than anything she'd ever seen; lavishly decorated with silk drapes and portraits of figures gazing down. There was an enormous bed across from a fireplace, covered with feather blankets, quilts and an assortment of pillows. A graceful tub was off in the back, and several luxurious overstuffed chairs littered the room over large, thick rugs.

Aya was taken aback by the sheer size of the place. All she'd seen for the most of her life had been desert and small towns.

"This place is gigantic."

"Kinda," replied Chidori, glancing around the room. "You should see Lady Suzumi's room. Or even Lord Yuhi's. You will soon, anyway. This floor is for the direct royal family."

"It is?"

"Uh-huh. The queen's quarters are down the hall, and Lord Yuhi's are just around the corner."

"Where is your room?"

"Oh, I live lower down so my grandparents have it easier taking the stairs. Lady Suzumi offered me a room up here, but I'd rather live with my family. You should meet them sometime! I know my brother will like you. He hasn't been feeling too well lately."

Aya smiled brightly. "I'd love to."

"Great! Okay, you need some new clothes, so I'll go and get the tailors. I'll be right back, k?" Chidori spun on her heel and left. As soon as the door clicked closed, Aya's smile fell. Family.

"Aki…"

xXx

Suzumi stood watching the two girls leave, then gracefully walked back to the dais. "What was the problem, Yuhi?" asked Suzumi after sitting back onto her throne. A servant offered her a goblet. She waved him away and he scuttled to Yuhi, bowing as he raised the tray.

"Another report of a mutilated body by the forest," said Yuhi wearily, running a hand through his hair. He took the proffered drink and took a long swig. He was irritated if he was willing to drink. "That's the thirteenth one."

"We'll figure this out soon, Yuhi."

"It's not that," said Yuhi. "It's-" Yuhi grimaced, "that girl."

"What do you think of her?"

"She's a stupid, rude, inconsiderate, pug-faced nuisance."

"Ah." Suzumi placed her goblet on the arm of the throne and clasped her fingers together, even those small movements as graceful as a swan's.

"You're sure she's a celestial maiden?" Yuhi asked with hopeful skepticism.

"I'm positive."

"Fine," he said, and gulped down the last of his wine. There was a note of defeat in his voice.

"You'll like her soon enough. She's a charming girl," said Suzumi bemusedly.

"Yeah, with a rage problem."

"You're not too patient yourself. You'll have to work on that before you become king."

Yuhi winced and muttered something under his breath, but Suzumi caught the gist of it.

Effortlessly she stood and walked to Yuhi who was frowning fixedly at the floor. Gently she placed a small hand on the side of his face and lifted it up, though he still refused to face her steady gaze.

"Someday you will take the throne, Yuhi. And when you do, you will rule with honor, strength, and justice; everything you've possessed since you were old enough to raise your sword; and the people will love and respect you, as they already do this very minute. You will lead them to glory and victory, as I've seen you do countless times, and come home with the cheers and admiration of your men by your side, something you've always had, to this throne. And," she added, smiling, "hopefully to a princess of your own."

Still staring at the floor, his face hidden in shadow, Yuhi raised a trembling hand onto Suzumi's.

"Thanks, sis."

xXx

You know, it was the longest time while writing this until I realized the girl on Ceres was in fact Chidori, not Midori. And I'm still not sure. But anyway, I'm afraid there will be several-day intervals between each chapter. I'm not accustomed to writing everyday, and even if I was, I certainly don't have the free time. So I apologize. But I hope you like it so far. I have a lot planned……And I've yet to decide Toya's role in this. I have some thoughts, but haven't set one. Rest assured, whatever it is, it'll be a big role. Really, you Toya/Aya people are insatiable. 