The Defector

Good Life.

Well, I'm near the end.

97 years old and no one bothers me.

I've lived out here in the mountains of Northwest Montana for the last fifty five years.

Of course this would be how I'd die.

The boulder had to shift right as I was moving between it and a large tree.

Oh well, I suppose that there are far worse ways to die.

Can't call for help, I'm pinned at the chest.

It's sort of funny... the sky looks slightly majenta.

Maybe that's... just.... it......

I felt myself falling as I gasped for air.

Quickly catching myself, I looked around to try and figure out what happened.

"Welcome, hero."

I looked to see that a gaudily dressed man had said it.

"Piss off, ya skunk assed rat bastard!

I'm 97 years old!

What kind of game are you playing bringin' me here in such a fashion that ya think I'd be a hero!?

Huh? Speak up, lad, I can't hear you."

"Sir! You look no older than sixteen. Why would you think yourself an old man?"

"Sixteen? Hah!

I'll tell you something, kid!

Get yer damned eyes checked and get out of my sight!" I yelled.

Then, I found my arms restrained by two men wearing ancient armor.

"What is this, some sort of renaissance fair?

Let..."

I yanked to try and pull out of their grips.

"...go!!"

I broke free and immediately threw my fists out sideways after jumping and landing with my knees bent at 90⁰ angles.

The two men were sent flying and crashed against others.

Then, since my back wasn't hurting at all, I looked at my hands.

Smooth, perfect hands with olive tone.

"Well, Hero. Do you feel better now that you've thoroughly humiliated the Knight Commander and the captain of the Guard?" A new voice asked.

"I'll feel better if someone starts explaining just what is going on."

"Right.

We summoned an individual with unparalleled combined skills in fighting and survival with extensive experience and knowledge.

Yet, we are left with a sixteen year old boy who claims that he is ninety seven."

"I very well may be 16 in this world but, In mine, I was a 97 year old hermit who managed to get hisself pinned between a boulder and a tree.

For my rescue, I express the utmost gratitude.

For the rest, I hold no obligation to aid you."

The crowned figure smirked and pressed his finger to one of his rings.

I felt the current flow throughout my entire body but, because of my training, it was hardly more than a tickle.

I walked toward him and he panicked, poking at the ring and cursing.

Then, like a child, he screamed.

"Help! He's going to kill me!"

I reached up and grabbed the collar around my neck.