Immortality is for the Young

The longer I linger here in this quixotic place, the more aware I become of the many ironies of old age among immortal kinsmen. In a life not to far past, I had begun to fear the uncertainties that come from the knowledge I might soon come face-to-face with my maker. So when I heard tales of a mystical island where time stands still, I leaped at the chance to stave off divine judgment. It was a foolish gambit if ever there was one, for I am certain the burden of my sin is no greater than that of any ordinary man. And eternity, as it turns out, is better weathered by the strong back of a young man. Now, this aging, wretched body, wracked with the aches and pains of a life of hard work, is mine forever, and the relief which might have come from God’s forgiveness shall perhaps never be achieved. Therefore, if this place is to be my purgatory, I will pay the price for my hubris. When I heard the man, Yonas, had called on those brave enough to stand against the Corruption, I volunteered. Let this old man die, so the young may live another day. I can only hope that the wisdom of a long life has lent strength to my soul, and that our merciful Lord shall one day see fit to grant me clemency for subverting his divine provenance. -Pedro Carillo