Maka-tao, Makakalikasan at Makabansa (Filipino for “For God, People, Nature, and Country” or “For the Love of God, People, Nature, and Country”) is the national motto of the Philippines.

Pope Pius XIII leans back in his chair, the light of St. Peter’s filtering through the blinds like judgment itself. He points a delicate finger at Nicole Scherzinger, who bows her head slightly, unsure whether she is being scolded or blessed.

“The Philippines,” he says, “needs a woman who rules with humility, not one who hoards shoes while her people walk barefoot in the mud. A shepherdess, not a queen of closets.”

Nicole laughs nervously, smoothing her dress. “Holy Father, you know, my last name… Scherzinger. In Italian, Zingaro means gypsy. Zinger is like gypsy.”

The Young Pope narrows his eyes, then suddenly waves a hand with theatrical impatience. “Yes, yes, I know! But the days of Mussolini and the hatred of the Romani people are gone. At least, they must be gone if Christ is to walk this earth again in spirit. Do not be ashamed of your name, Nicole. Wear it like a crown. A name once spat at with contempt can be sung like an aria.”

Nicole tilts her head, her pop-star smile turning serious. “So, you mean the Philippines can have a leader who sings for the people instead of stealing from them?”

Pius XIII gives her the faintest of smiles—so rare it feels like a miracle. “Exactly. A leader with rhythm, but not corruption. A leader who dances with her people instead of standing above them.”