The Hero of Vengeance

Chapter 21: Unscheduled Date

I woke up extra early and got ready for work in the Diner today. Luckily, Talia had left a uniform in my room for this very day.

I made my way downstairs and found Jorgan along with Talia sitting at a table discussing business.

"Good morning," I said as I approached.

"Good morning, Mizik. Sleep well?" Jorgan asked with a friendly smile. I nodded and returned it.

"Great, let's get down to business then. My daughter Irene requested today off, so there's a spot for you. We can start off in the kitchen before we open and I'll show you how we run things. Then, I'll send you out to take orders. Sound good?"

"Absolutely. Let's get started!" I said.

Jorgan handed me a small nametag that just read 'Mizik' and I affixed it to my uniform.

We spent the next two hours in the kitchen and I learned several things about cooking from Jorgan. I was also given a chance to show everyone what I could do.

Not to brag, but I was pretty good at cooking. They were impressed with my ability.

Later on, when the restaurant opened, I made my way out to the floor to take orders and serve customers.

It was much different than working at The Sleeping Dragon.

Furthermore, plenty of people pronounced my name incorrectly as well. Especially if I forgot to introduce myself before taking their orders.

A woman also hit on me. Compared to Isabella, however, she didn't bother me at all.

I continued working until about noon when Jorgan beckoned me into the kitchen. One of the other waitresses took over for me and I made my way into the back.

"Mizik, I have something important for you to do," Jorgan said to me as I approached him.

"Of course. What is it?" I asked.

"We have a special guest arriving along with a few others that comes around every so often. They'll be arriving soon and I wanted to know if I could trust you to handle it. Think you're up to the task?" He said.

"You can trust me. I'll take care of it," I responded.

"Good. This guest is very important, just so you know. She's not too picky and shouldn't cause problems, but just make sure to be respectful, alright?"

I nodded and made my way out front.

A few moments later, the door to the Diner opened and three knights walked in then stood next to the doorway.

Next...

A stunningly beautiful woman walked gracefully through the entrance of the Diner. She had beautiful soft pink hair, an elegant and modest dress, with icy blue eyes. She wore a light jacket over her dress.

I when I focused enough, I saw a small mole under her left eye.

It was Princess Isabella.

She was followed by a tall older man in a beautiful suit lined with gold. He had a massive and beautiful greatsword strapped to his back.

Isabella...? You're the special guest!?

I recalled her telling me about how she loved eating here, but...

To think that she would actually just show up...

It was odd to me. Wouldn't a Princess have a more refined palate? Why did she enjoy the things lower class people liked so much?

I took a deep breath and heard Jorgan shout to her.

"Welcome your Majesty, Princess Isabella! Please have a seat and someone should be over to serve you!"

"Thank you, Jorgan. Take your time, please!" Isabella said kindly.

Several people looked on and muttered to themselves in amazement as the Princess walked gracefully across the dining room.

Alright, let's just go. It would be rude to keep a member of the royal family waiting, right? Is that how it works...?

After Isabella and her retinue sat down at a table, I went over and introduced myself.

"Hello everyone. My name is Mizik and I'll be serving you today."

Isabella's expression brightened greatly as she looked at me.

"Mizik! I was hoping to run into you, today! How is your head feeling?" She said.

If you don't stop that...I might really get the wrong impression. Not that I mind. I just don't want to set myself up for heartbreak.

"It feels a lot better today, thank you," I said as I smiled at her.

I was feeling a lot more confident about talking to her today.

"I am so happy to hear that! I am deeply sorry for the trouble my sister caused you yesterday as well... I want to make it up to you, somehow," She said.

"That's okay, Isabella. You saved me from her. We're even as far as I'm concerned," I said.

She seemed to pout slightly as I spoke.

Before she could say anything, however, one of the knights at her table spoke up.

"How dare you! That is First Princess Isabella Victoria Albatross! You will address her as her Majesty!" He said angrily.

"Silence! I told Mizik to call me by my name. You will not speak rudely to my treasured friend ever again. Are we clear!?" Isabella shot back at him.

She spoke in such a dignified and commanding tone. It sent shivers down my spine.

"Y-y-yes your Majesty... My apologies!" He said.

"You are forgiven. But apologize to Mizik as well. After all, you were rude to him," she said.

The knight stood up and bowed deeply.

"Please forgive me! I didn't know you were acquainted with her Majesty! I am deeply sorry for my words, Sir Mizik!" He said.

"I-it's just Mizik... And don't worry about it..." I said.

"You are kind, good sir," he said just before sitting back down.

I took a deep breath to calm myself and turned back to Isabella.

"Anyway, what can I get for you all to eat?" I asked.

I took their order and handed it off to Jorgan in the back. Just before I made my way to the front, one of the knights that Isabella had brought appeared in the doorway. The same one who lashed out at me.

"Her Majesty wishes to have words with the owner of this establishment," he said.

Jorgan moved over to the doorway and motioned for me to wait. He and the knight went over to her table as I stood by to watch.

After a short conversation, I could tell Jorgan was surprised about something. Also very happy. He made his way back to the kitchen once he finished.

"Did something happen?" I asked somewhat cautiously.

"Nothing bad. You never told me you were acquainted with the Princess, Mizik. She was wondering if you had taken a break or eaten yet today," Jorgan said.

Truthfully, I hadn't. I had been working for six hours and chose not to rest. Or eat, for that matter.

"She wants you to sit down and eat with her if that's alright. Sounds like a tremendous honor, if you ask me. If you want to take a break, go for it. Far be it from me to deny her Majesty something she wants..." he said.

"Umm...alright then," I said nervously.

"Want anything to eat? I'll send someone over to bring you and everyone else their food."

I told him what I wanted to eat and then made my way back to Isabella's table.

"Mizik! Please, sit next to me!" Isabella said as she pulled out a chair for me.

This can't be real. Are you really Rose...? The same person that I adventured with?

I nervously sat down next to her.

I could see some of the knight's smirking at me. Almost as if they were teasing me.

The older man that sat on Isabella's other side remained silent and stoic. I could feel his silent gaze as Isabella smiled at me.

I felt so out of place... Isabella had been acting very differently towards me ever since I learned who she really was.

"I'm so glad that I ran into you today, Mizik! It's wonderful to see you again!" She said.

She was leaning really close to me. It made me feel somewhat nervous, so I looked away from her as I felt my face heat up.

One of the knights chuckled at my nervousness and Isabella shot him a glance.

He quieted immediately.

"Mizik is a very special person to me. I would be happy if you did not laugh at him. Now, I would like to have words with him. Please pay us no mind."

"Yes, your Majesty. My deepest apologies," the knight said as he bowed his head.

Isabella turned back to me and spoke again.

"I've been thinking about you a lot lately. You're always so nice and you don't seem bothered by my position at all. I think that's truly special."

She leaned closer to me and I instinctively inched away.

She was almost touching me, now.

It's like she's doing it on purpose. She's trying to charm me, isn't she!? No...no way. She's just being nice. We're just really good friends!

"I...was thinking about you a lot too, Isabella. You're really nice..." I said.

"You were thinking about me!? I'm so glad to hear that! But...I have a question, Mizik... Since coming to Albatross...are there maybe...any girls that you like?" Isabella said.

That might be crossing a line. I'm not sure I could give you an answer to that.

"W-well...I mean...I like you? We're friends and all, and you're so easy to talk to! Haha..."

Maybe she'll relent if I put up a barrier?

"Ah, my apologies. I meant romantically. Is there anyone you've maybe fallen for...?" Isabella asked.

What the hell!? You weren't supposed to just ignore that!

She leaned even closer.

From this distance, I could smell a kind of perfume on her. She smelled sweet and luxurious.

You're engaged, right!? Why are you asking me these things!? I really do like you a lot...but it's impossible!

Fortunately, the food had arrived at our table before I could answer.

Thank goodness!

"Oh, look! The food is here!" I said nervously.

"Ah...the food...of course..." She said.

She sounded a bit disappointed.

We began eating and then suddenly, I saw Isabella smile out of the corner of my eye. It was the devious smile of a mastermind.

"Hey Miziiik~! Isn't this kind of like a date?" She said.

Have I offended you in some way? Why are you torturing me?

"U-umm..."

"It is, isn't it? We're on a date right now! It's almost like we're a couple!" Isabella said happily.

"Y-yeah...but...isn't that not allowed...?" I managed to say.

"Huh? Why wouldn't it be allowed? I'm the First Princess of Albatross. I can do as I please, you know? I have more power than every noble in the entire country put together. You're so silly sometimes, Mizik!"

I'm about at my limit, here!

"H-hang on Isabella, we're just friends, right? Aren't you engaged? It sounds like you're trying to imply something between us. There's no way anyone would allow that..." I said.

Then she leaned over and hugged my arm.

"I'm not engaged, Mizik. I cancelled that yesterday. It happens all the time, so don't worry. Besides..."

She smiled as she saw me glancing away from her.

"If my parents want me to get married, I should oblige. With my power and influence, I can have any man that I choose. What if I chose you? We don't just have to be friends...right? Also, I'm going to be the next Queen. I say that it should definitely be allowed!" She said.

You're killing me, Isabella.

"My Lady...don't you think this is a bit unbecoming of you?" The older man said.

Isabella reluctantly pulled away.

"Hush now, Walter. Can't you see that I'm working here? Mizik seems to be a bit dense, so I need to spell it out for him," She said.

I'm not dense, I'm in denial. There's no way anyone would allow this! That Arvild guy would probably kill me on the spot if he saw me right now!

Despite my feelings, I thought to ask, anyway...

"What do you mean...spell it out?" I said cautiously.

"I'm glad you asked! We traveled together for quite some time, Mizik. We also got to know each other so well! I'm impressed with you. Honestly, I don't think I've ever felt this way about someone, before. So how about it? Would you...like to be more than friends?" Isabella said.

"H-huh!? Oh...uh...like best friends? Haha..."

"Ah...Mizik. Must I really say the words in front of everyone?"

I simply nodded.

"You are a different kind of man, Mizik. I admire that. Something about you is so much greater than anyone else I've ever met. I'm...in love with you, Mizik. I want to be near you always! Please...won't you return my feelings?" Isabella said as she leaned close to me.

This has to be a dream...but, I don't want to wake up. Haah...screw it. If this gets me killed, at least I'll die happy.

"I...I accept. If...that's okay..." I said.

"Of course it's okay! Now you're my boyfriend! I love you, Mizik!!!" Isabella said as she hugged me tightly.

"Y-yeah...and you're my-"

Then the old man, Walter, let out a sigh.

"My Lady...are you sure about this? What would the other nobles say?" He said.

"Of course I am! Let me have my moment! I just confessed my love for someone in public and got a positive response! Besides...it's not like their onions matter since their power was revoked anyway!" Isabella fired back somewhat angrily.

"Then allow me to introduce myself to him, formally," Walter said.

He stood up and walked over to me.

I turned to Walter and he extended his hand. I shook it and he gave a slight smile.

"I am Walter Orthright. Sworn protecter of Princess Isabella, and wielder of the legendary sword: Honor. It is nice to finally speak with you."

Legendary sword...Honor!?

"Nice to meet you, Walter. I'm-"

"Mizik Iratus. The new Overseer and wielder of Vegeance. Honor won't stop celebrating the fact that a new Overseer has been selected and I know you very well by now. After all, I traveled alongside you and Isabella," Walter said.

"Wh-what!? How did..."

Suddenly, Walter turned invisible. I could no longer see any trace of him.

That means...he was with us the entire time!?!?

Then he reappeared.

"I must say...you did an excellent job of protecting her Majesty in my stead. But had you failed, I would have stepped up to ensure her safety. Although, you are fortunate that I was sleeping when you walked in on-"

"W-walter! Maybe not in public...?" Isabella said.

"But of course. My apologies," Walter said.

"I'm really sorry, Walter. That was an accident..." I said.

"Isabella has already explained it to me. And seeing your behavior, I believe you. But know this...Isabella goes nowhere without my protection. If you ever have the intention of doing her harm, I will be forced to do battle with you," Walter said.

I gave a sharp nod.

[He is not permitted. His loyalty is somewhat misplaced...but he will do.]

Umm...

Ignoring Vengeance, I responded immediately.

"I would never harm her. I would rather die than break her trust in me," I said.

"Good. Know that I am always watching, then. And please, take good care of her," he said.

"Of course."

We sat and ate for a little while longer and finished our food. Once we had cleaned our plates, I figured it was time to get back to work.

Although I didn't want to. I just wanted to be near Isabella...

She's my girlfriend now! I finally have a girlfriend and she's a Princess!

I couldn't stop celebrating internally.

I stood up and began collecting everyone's dishes until I felt a tug on my sleeve.

Isabella wanted to get my attention.

"Mizik, is there any way you could come to the castle today?" She said.

I would love to if it means I get to spend more time with you.

"I'll have to ask Jorgan, but I'm sure he wouldn't mind," I said.

"If her Majesty wishes it, then I can petition the owner to lend you to us," one of the knights said.

"Please do, and let him know that the food was delicious," Isabella said happily.

Before I could go, the knight who had spoken hurriedly made his way to the kitchen.

He came back with a smile and bowed to Isabella.

"Master Jorgan says that since business is slow today, he can afford to allow Sir Mizik to depart for now."

"Excellent," Isabella responded.

I guess I'm being abducted.

We waited for one of the other waitresses to come over and Walter issued them their payment. Isabella added a large tip as a thank-you and an apology for taking me away from here.

"Should I put my armor on?" I asked Isabella.

"No need, the knights as well as Walter can protect us. I would prefer for you to relax if you don't mind."

"Okay then," I said.

We made our way out of the Diner and through town.

Along the way back to the castle, Isabella stopped several times to admire the buildings as well as the other sights to see. Multiple times, people were in awe of her as we walked by.

As several men stared at her, she gently took my arm in hers. She leaned close to me and smiled.

Eventually, we made it to the castle and the guards lowered the drawbridge as soon as they saw Isabella.

We walked straight into the castle and after a short stroll inside, Isabella dismissed the three knights who had been with us. Isabella, Walter, and I continued down the hall for a few minutes when a familiar face came into view...

"Oh dear, he's back isn't he?" said the familiar-looking woman with a condescending gaze.

Second Princess Cassandra had arrived again.

This time, she was looking me up and down. Eying me strangely.

Are you really that disgusted by me...? I already apologized!

"How is your head doing? I made sure not to step too hard, but I guess I don't know my own strength!" She said with a smile.

Just looking at her sadistic smile made my skin crawl. I almost took a step back when Isabella stepped in front of me.

"Sister, you are not to harm this man ever again, do you hear me? He is a treasured person to me and I will not stand for your behavior."

"Why do you want to defend such trash, Isabella? It's not like he has anything to offer you, you know?"

"Watch your tongue, Cassandra! Mizik isn't trash, he is an Iratus. The same family of powerful warriors from the west. You should show him respect." Isabella said.

"I bet he's the love child of some lowly forgotten family member and a cheap whore. He has no noble bearing whatsoever. He acts just like a commoner! Go on, little boy, tell us the truth. Who are your parents?" Cassandra said condescendingly.

Why the hell do you care!?

Honestly, I wasn't sure I would get an opportunity like this.

"My father was actually the head of the household. Sir Ulysses Iratus. The Duke of Noir. My mother was a woman in Lorelei that he fell in love with. Yes, she was a commoner. A waitress at an Inn. But they did get married and I was born afterward," I proclaimed to Cassandra.

For a moment both Cassandra and Isabella stood silent in shock.

"Sir Ulysses Iratus!?" They both said in unison.

Is that strange? Wait...didn't I tell Isabella? I told her that, right...?

"Mizik, you don't mean THE Ulysses Iratus, do you?" Isabella said frantically.

"I do. He was my father. He was the one who was killed by a dragon in the Lorelei mines..." I said.

"You expect me to believe that your father was the infamous Emerald War Demon from Noir!? Don't be ridiculous!" Cassandra shouted.

"Emerald what?" I said.

"Mizik, your father was one of the most powerful warriors to ever walk the battlefield twenty years ago when Albatross went to war with Kalsa. We heard stories when we were young of a soldier who slew men by the hundreds and routed entire armies. He was legendary in battle and supposedly he never even achieved level 100," Isabella said.

"I fought that man, myself, and I can attest to it. He was much younger than me and still held his own like a master. A truly terrifying foe, indeed. I was lucky to survive after he went berserk," Walter, who had until now been quiet, chimed in.

Cassandra gritted her teeth and glared at me.

"So what, then? I still don't believe you! And it's not as if you can prove it!"

Actually...

"I keep my birth records and family documents in my inventory. I'd show you, but I'm worried you would get angry and tear them up in spite," I said to Cassandra.

She glared at me.

"Mizik...perhaps you should hold your tongue for a bit..." Isabella said nervously.

"You...you lowly trash! How dare you even speak to me in such a manner!? You will pay for your insolence!" Cassandra responded.

I was enjoying this, but I didn't want to upset Isabella. Besides, it wasn't like I directly insulted her.

I only gave her a damn hug! I mistook her for someone else! Besides, I didn't hurt her or anything.

"This man has absolutely no respect for us at all! Why do you keep him around, sister?" Cassandra said angrily.

"Cassandra, I would have you know that Mizik and I are dating. We have become a couple! He is precious to me and I would prefer it if you could leave him alone!"

Cassandra looked shocked to hear this. She looked at me in disgust.

"You must be so happy to have a Princess as your girlfriend. But did you not stop and think this would cause her problems? Are you that inconsiderate? Speak!"

This was getting out of hand. Cassandra was honestly insufferable.

"What is your problem, anyway? Why are you so damn mean all the time? All I did was give you a hug! It was an accident and I already apologized! Are you against being loved, or something!?" I said angrily.

Cassandra crossed her arms as if to hold herself. She seemed really uncomfortable.

"How dare you take such a tone with me!? You violated my personal space without permission! A-and...I AM NOT AGAINST BEING LOVED!!!"

"You keep bothering me like it's your job. Do you have a crush on me or something?" I teased.

Isabella looked increasingly unhappy.

I'm sorry, but I need this woman to leave me alone...

Cassandra blushed slightly and gritted her teeth. She was shaking with anger.

"As if...I would lower myself...to such GARBAGE!? You aren't even worthy of being called garbage! You're a worm! An insect! A maggot! Isabella has to marry other nobility! That is our way! Our burden!"

"Do I get a say in who I marry? What if I decided to marry Mizik? He's from house Iratus, isn't he? And if he's the son of a Duke, that makes him more than eligible. Even if that much is irrelevant to me," Isabella said calmly.

Wait, what? What does any of this have to do with marriage!? We just became a couple!

Cassandra glared and pointed at me.

"Mark my words, I'll make you pay for this," Cassandra said plainly.

With that, she turned and hurried off.

Afterwards, Isabella sighed.

"Mizik, you should really be careful with your words around her... She's more dangerous than you know," Isabella said.

"Sorry...I've had enough of her behavior. I'll try to be nicer to her in the future," I said.

"She's really friendly deep down, I promise. She just became twisted over the years."

And with that, we continued onward towards our destination. I figured I would ask why she wanted me to be here since she hadn't said anything about it.

"Hey Isabella, why did you bring me here, anyway?" I asked.

"To meet my father, of course!" She happily responded.

What!?