Where the Stars Fell

III.

***

For the first time in decades, the seasons come and go like they should. Spring gives away to the beginnings of autumn, the leaves shifting the colors of coppers and golds. It is as if the world has been placed under Midas's fingertips. The harvest is lively, and many visitors from the far corners of the world continue to visit the little village on the hill.

Villagers and visitors alike sit together, crowding among the statue of the girl who fell from a star. The stories she tells are never-ending, tales of red giants and supernovas. If Star were to run out of stories, the people would never tire of hearing the same ones over and over again. The way Star weaves stories, like a spider weaving patterns in its delicate silk, it is more than enough to leave her audience enraptured.

Lance sits among them, listening to Star's tales with rapt attention. Why hadn't he stopped to listen before? Why was he so angry? He can't seem to remember. His family is there, his father healthier than he had seen him in years. His mother is smiling, and his siblings sit with the other children, daisies adorning their hair like crowns.

The bruises are gone from his neck, and so is the apprehension that plagued him. His leg is healed, cane stored away somewhere and collecting dust. When has he ever able to run freely before? To play with his brothers and sisters without a limb as heavy as an anchor keeping him down? Such a life couldn't have been dreamed, not even hoped for. Not without Star's healing song.

Lance loves Star. He always had, he thinks. He was foolish for turning his cheek against her, for denying the blessings she offered with open, generous hands.

Star is so forgiving, however, she had forgiven Lance even when he scorned her. He didn't deserve such a kindness, her mercy. Lance would cut his heart open for Star if she asked.

The girl launches into another story, her eyes wide with something of a childish delight. She looks among her disciples, her faithful followers. They look to her with great reverence, like sunflowers turning towards the sun.

Star turns to look at Lance, her lips quirked in a gentle smile.

Basking in the warmth of it, Lance smiles back.