Induction

“What’s all this then?” asked the general.

Not turning around, I said, “Someone killed me the other day. That’s the official story. So, to keep it official, I’m here, in this bunker, playing Smash Bros.” I leapt over Master Hand’s sweep just as the screen went blank.

“You have work to do,” reminded the general.

“I had work to do,” I rejoined, tossing the controller aside. “Work that would prove my…” I searched for the right word, “…aliveness,” I came up with, waving my hand.

The general’s imperturbable features gave nothing away. He stood there with the plug in his hand, his face like stone.

“I have work for you,” he said.

Sighing, I stood.

“Alright,” I said. “At your command, sir.”

“Good,” he said, handing me a book.

Flipping through the pages, I asked, “What’s this then? I have read the Bible before.”

I stopped flipping and turned back to an illustration. The laminated page was easy to find. It was a reproduction of a photograph, old, Victorian, staged. A bunch of old timey guys in old timey dress posing in stiff, regulated lines.

I studied the faces.

“Yesterday at 0900 hours, you were shot point blank, taking a bullet that was meant for me.”

“I remember,” I said, my eyes focusing on a stony and familiar face. This you?” I joked, pointing to a young lieutenant. “Must be a relative.”

“An action which, despite your general lack of any other redeemable qualities, showcases your inane bravery and heroic resolve.”

“You’re welcome,” I said.

“That shot was meant for me,” he continued.

“Well, live and learn,” I said. “Next time, I’ll let you take it, then.”

“I hired the man myself.”

This statement seemed to make the room grow cold.

“I want you to read that little book, if you can manage, and ask the question of how, even if you had survived the gunshot going through your heart only yesterday, you’re no worse for wears today.”

I stared at the general.

“What is all this?” I asked.

“Your induction,” he said, “somewhat belated. Usually, you’d have been given you a choice in the matter. However, circumstances as they were, the decision was made for you.”