I Never Asked to Be a Hero

The Old Guy

I laid at the base of the tree.

After each day of work, I always come here to rest under my precious tree. The branches stretch out far enough to protect my eyes from the sun, but not far enough to cover my lower body. The warmth of the sun soaking my stomach and legs helps me fall into sweet slumber.

For years, this has been my routine: Wake up, eat, work, eat, nap, eat, sleep, and repeat. Some would call this routine boring beyond compare, but I love it. Lazing around all day with no responsibilities is great. I don't find many of the villagers fun to be around, but this tree is a delight.

pff pff pff

I could hear footsteps on the soft grass approaching me. I leaned up and stretched my arms towards the sky.

I opened my eyes to see some dusty old man in a cloak waddling my way at a snails pace. Maybe he wants directions or food, maybe a gravestone.

I stood up to greet the wrinkly old man, but he spoke before I could.

"Young man! Take this sword please!"

As he spoke he pulled out a big sheathed sword from under his robes.

"What"

"Please Young man, I've travelled for months trying to find someone to take this sword."

I could see his hands visibly shaking under the sword's weight.

"I didn't order a sword."

"It's the Demon Lord, young man. He's ordered me to bring this sword to someone."

"Someone?"

"He requested I give the sword to any young man or woman I can find. I've already asked countless people, sir. I just asked around this village, and I just managed to notice you on my way out."

"Why would the Demon Lord request some old guy like you to do that."

"Well, he's gotten rather bored sitting in his fortress all day, you see."

"Huh?"