The novel continues to curse and trick nearly everyone: almost as soon as Madame Semele tricks Morwanneg, Morwanneg one-ups her by cursing her to not be able to perceive the star. What motivates both women is a desire for power, but more specifically, a desire for power that they tie to
youth. What’s important to both of them is to become young again. The star herself, then, begins to function as the embodiment of youth and vitality, making her a prime target for these elderly witches. Interestingly, though, these women essentially want to have their cake and eat it too. They’re as powerful as they are
because they’re old—and they want to keep their power but look youthful.