“To Become a Star”

“Is it true?”

I glance up at her. “Is what true?”

“That the stars are alive.”

My hands still on the laces of her dress. Lady Pia Carella firmly believes that any topics of science or technology should only be taught to the servants; the minds of the noblemen and noblewomen must have space for court gossip. So why is she asking about the stars?

“Heart,” she snaps and I jump, “why have you stopped?”

“Apologies, my lady,” I say, ducking my head before continuing to tighten her dress. “To answer your question, yes, the stars are alive.”

She jerks the laces from my hands as she spins to face me. “How?”

“Well,” I say slowly, “there are multiple theories regarding the existence of stars. The first is that they are the spirits of deceased kings and queens.”

“And nobles?” Lady Pia Carella asks.

“Er, well…”

Her expression immediately darkens. “Heart,” she commands, “I wish to become Queen so that I may be a star.”

“Well, it’s just a theory-“

She glares at me.

I clear my throat and try again. “Apologies, my lady. Of course, we will find a way for you to become Queen.”