League of Legends: Survival, Book 2

On A Boat

Being Esgar's wife had perks, I will say that.

As it turned out, Princesses, and Princes weren't just stay at home sit on the throne sort of people. There was a reason why Janice was adept at so many combative skills and tools.

Gender roles regarding war and combat were equal here, the women of royalty being just as well equipped and trained to handle situations that required it as the men.

So it was because of this that when I requested to accompany Esgar to hunt down the Dreadmare, he allowed both me and Janice to accompany him. However, he seemed apprehensive about it, concerned for my safety.

"I can handle it." I told Esgar. "Apart from fangs, claws, and blistering hot star fire, I grew up in the toughest neighborhoods.. "

"I'll look after her." said Janice as she tore off her dress hastily to reveal a combat outfit underneath and strapping a crossbow to her back.

"I'm not sure if you should come either." said Esgar. "Jinx isn't called a Loose Cannon for nothing.."

"I'll be fine, I can control it now." said Janice dismissively. "Sure I get a little weird when I'm in the form.. sure I start talking to my guns as if they're alive.. but I'm fine."

I wasn't so sure either, but Akemi had been teaching Janice to control Jinx, so I guess there was something in that... at least I hope there was.

The three of us entered throne room. I was glad that I was changed out of my wedding dress. Instead I wore royal combat clothing which consisted of padded black leather gauntlets, shorts (Can you believe it? Avaron has shorts.) a segmented padded torso that allowed me swift movement, and some boots that were knee height. They took time to put on, but they were the most comfortable clothes I could find.

King Prow was already seated at his throne, his hands clasped together.

"Father." said Esgar, bowing before the King as me and Janice did the same. "As the Prince and Princesses, guardians of your land, we humbly request that you send us to hunt this Dreadmare!"

"I'm afraid not.." said Prow quietly.

"What!?" stammered Janice. "Father, listen, A Dreadmare is far worse than anything our lands have ever encountered. You know this, you know what happened the last time a Dreadmare was left unchecked. They are worse than dragons or even the filthy flesh rotting Wendigo!"

"I am well aware of that." said the King. "However, we do not have the time to-"

"But King Prow sir!" I said.

"I thought that a respectful Princess.." growled Prow spitefully. "Was supposed to address her new family with proper respect."

I could feel an angry retort building up in me, but both Esgar and Janice gave me warning glances and I held it in.

"Father.." I said, feeling the word burn like acid upon my very tongue. "Is it not the job of the Princess and Prince to defend the land as much as possible in service to you? What use is that service if you decide to ignore this.. this.. nightmarish monster?.. er.. no pun intended.."

"Well, perhaps if you feel so strongly about it..  I should only send you.. daughter." said Prow.. saying the last word as if it were some sort of insult. "Surely the wrath of Rek'Sai is great enough to defeat a simple shadow."

"Are you mad!?" Janice screamed, looking at her father with fury. " This isn't some simple gremlin or creation of witchcraft!! A flesh and blood beast like Rek'Sai won't be able to kill it alone! Are you really that hopeful that Miyoko will perish in the attempt!?"