Power is Power

Chapter 7

Saint's POV

~ Time Skip ~

It has been a few days since Star has left her chambers. She has turned down any meals that have been offered to her, nor has she rested. After the wedding, my father's death, the funeral...it was then at that second. As my father exhaled his last breath, that burden has fallen onto Star's shoulders. Even though it's been a few days, she seems overwhelmed at the concept of it all.

"Princess..." I slightly shift to Thrawn's abrupt voice.

"I did not mean to alarm you."

"No, it's alright." I glimpse back to my big sister's bedroom door.

"Any word from her?"

"No. She has not spoken to anyone, including Simone and I. She's withdrawn."

"I understand that she is in great distress, therefore she cannot deceive from what she is destined to become."

"Yes, Grand Admiral."

"I'll leave you be, princess." He ambles away without saying another word. I inhale deeply while walking a few steps to the door. I softly knock.

"Star..." I practically whisper. It feels like my heart is in my throat, making it difficult to speak. I press the button to open the door.

*HISS*

I slowly walk towards Star, who is standing at the balcony...just staring. Staring at the sky? Staring at the city? The people? The soldiers?

"Star...it's me, you know? Saint?"

"Why?" She whispers so softly I could barely make out what she said.

"Why what? Star?" She slowly turns around to face me. Our eyes meeting each other.

"Why did father choose me?" I gaze at her, examining the wrinkles under her eyes revealing her lack of sleep. Her body resembled thinner considering she was not eating a lot. Her hair looking so brittle. Her voice was raspy, conceivably it is because she has scarcely spoken to anyone...at all. Her skin is slightly pale...dehydration has something to do with it.

"I don't know. But, I know our father wouldn't like to see you being like this. You have been preparing your whole life to rule. Even after father's death. You must be the leader you were meant to be. The big sister who leads her younger siblings. The hope for our people." She nods deliberately while she takes another glance at whatever it is out the balcony.

"Let's get you bathed before you eat anything because, sis...you kinda stink." She shares a light chuckle which is plausibly the first time I've witnessed her do something like that in a while.

"Pardon me, slave? I'm sorry-"

"No, no, no, don't be sorry. I apologize if I have done anything wrong princess." The young woman becomes startled.

"Please, calm down. I will not do any harm to you." I try to ease the slave.

"Could you please get my sister some food?" I motion to Star as she finally emerges from her room.

"Princess Star." The slave instantly bows.

"Rise, please."

"Oh, um, I will get you food." The slave runs so fast I couldn't believe how terrified she was.

"I feel bad for her," Star whispers in my ear.

"Why? She is just a slave."

"Precisely, slaves are to obey without hesitation nor doubt their own masters. Otherwise, they will be punished."