Chapter 49: Warlord BloodStar

Chapter 49: Warlord BloodStar

Evening had arrived in the BloodStar Empire. Constance and Nero both stood guard as Xenia remained in the rejuvenation chamber.

Constance curiously questioned Nero, “You saw the immediate aftermath of the attack on Xenia. You’ve been here more than anyone observing her. What do you make of her condition today? What’s your honest opinion if she will live or die?”

Nero stopped meditating and stood to face Constance, “If you asked me several days ago, I would’ve said her chances are slim. Her injuries had been showing a creeping progression.” He paused to look Xenia over before continuing, “However, ever since her hair changed colors in that brief moment and she released a finer, more controlled aura, her injuries have not only stopped progressing but regressed in many areas. A subtle change but a real one to be sure.”

Constance looked Nero in the eyes and said, “Nero. Stop dancing around my question. Do you think she will live? Or die?”

Nero gave a half smile and replied, “Live.”

Constance excitedly asked, “Really? How can you be sure?!”

He sat back down to meditate and said, “Because I know Xenia’s healing powers very well. She has turned the tide in the battle within her. She will be back with us shortly. The world should be fearful.”

Constance had a huge grin, “Fearful indeed.” She continued to smile as she sat down in a chair with her arms crossed.

The two went about their own ways of passing the idle time. Hours passed as the clock struck midnight when suddenly... the room once again began to glow a blood red.

Nero and Constance stood to attention on high-alert as they saw Xenia’s hair had once again turned a deep blood-red crimson. Both Nero and Constance instantly knew this occurrence was unlike the last time, however. Xenia’s aura was rapidly expanding and showed no signs of stopping as it surged.

The aura was refined, powerful, and focused. Unlike the brief burst of her crimson red aura from last time, the current aura was unbridled and unimpeded by residual ki from the Lightbringer attack. It had won.

Xenia crossed her arms and looked out the window and down onto the BloodStar Empire, “Yes. Before going all out in war, I agree I should wait.” She turned to her mother and said, “I will wait if you agree to hold a War ceremony for me after the conference.”

Victoria smiled, “It’s already planned. You will become Warlord Xenia BloodStar. You will officially outrank the King and Queen here at home. And abroad, you will have the authority to act on my behalf as an active Warlord.”

Xenia ran to hug her mother, “This is the best surprise ever!! Thank you, mother!”

Victoria laughed, “Think nothing of it. I have a much better surprise for you. Would you like to hear it?”

Xenia gave her a sharp look and said, “Would I?!”

Victoria took a sip of her drink and replied, “What happened to you doesn’t sit well with me. An attack on you especially one of such caliber as the Holy Light Empire performed is call for war as we will make official following the ceremony. However, my inability to get involved has created a boil for revenge as soon as possible.” She took another sip and looked to Xenia.

Xenia nodded, “I think I like where this is going. Do go on, mother.”

Victoria gave a smile filled with evil intent, “Pope Gregory is on lockdown preparing for war at all times. St. Michael, likewise, is preparing to lead the armies on the front lines wherever he may be sent. But Pope Peter... I hear he is relaxing. I hear he is planning a pre-war party at the estate of a Duchess Carmen Innocente tomorrow night. He plans to rally support and rub elbows with cardinals and the likes of the empire. It would be a shame if you weren’t there to honor him with a gift of your own. Unofficially, of course.”

Xenia gave a devilish smile in return to her mother, “You are quite right, mother. I really should honor him at such an event with so many VIP’s. After all, I am a very pretty princess. I am likely expected at such an event. And what kind of guest would I be if I didn’t bring a gift he will never forget.”

Xenia stood smiling to herself in thought. She had so many ideas. She was filled with excitement. She then turned to her mother and said, “I even have the perfect dress for such an occasion.”

Empress Victoria put her joy and laughter aside for a moment and on a serious note added, “It may also be of use to keep him alive and bring him back here. If your Bloodlust abilities have increased your Bloodbending to my level, then you will find that Bloodbending can be even more useful. I will let you come to your own conclusions from practicing on Peter or others at the party.”

Xenia still bubbled with joy as she said, “Oh mother. You misunderstand my excitement. I wouldn’t dream of ever killing Peter. He’s going to be mine to play with for as long as I live.”