I really should have worked out back when I was still alive. Even while being dead, I still had shit stamina. It got so bad to the point that Death had to summon a horse for me to ride. It was a beautiful steed. With a deep, velvety black coat, and a glossy black mane and tail that swayed with each careful step, and sleek, ebony fur, the horse’s intelligent eyes looked at me with….spite? It huffed as I tried to get on it, which caused me to slip. Death let out a small sigh as he scolded the horse in an unknown language. The horse neighed in response, as if it was talking back to Death. After a stern-talking to, or at least it seemed like it, the horse’s irritated attitude died down. Even when I attempted to climb it, it made no sound, and even tried to help by going down low for me. After I hitched myself up and prepared to ride, I remembered something. I had no experience with riding horses. As I was about to tell Death this, I realized something. Death knew all about my life, down to every last detail. If that’s true, then wouldn’t he know I can’t ride a horse? Before I could tell him this, the horse bolted with zero hesitation. My face probably looked like I was on a roller coaster, and the fact that I was screaming made it seem like I actually was. Thankfully, since I was dead, I wasn’t able to feel nauseous, so there was no way of me needing to vomit……Wait, then why did I even feel tired? Did Death purposely make me feel tired so I would have to experience this? Was this all just for a quick laugh? I thought I was overreacting, but after somehow managing to turn my head to the left, I saw Death was catching up with us. I also saw a smirk on his face as he saw mine. Oh, Death. You’re a bitch for this.

It felt like I was riding for hours. I even resorted to praying to god, the supreme guy, but I then remembered it was His fault that I was here in the first place. So, I just shut my eyes as I wished for it to end. Eventually, it did, as the horse went from a lightning-fast run to a slow trot, until it finally stopped. I wearily opened my eyes to see if where we stopped

“Woah.” was all I could say.

“Welcome to the Crossroads of the Afterlife.”

It was stunning. Several pillars of pure light stood tall, overlooking everything. An overhanging arch made out of pristine quartz that spread from the farthest pillars gave me the feeling that this was the entrance. It was in the center of what appeared to be the literal center of the universe. An innumerable amount of galaxies surrounded the place, all forming a breath-taking sight. Traces of what I assumed to be supernova explosions littered the sky, and shooting stars soared over the horizon.

I got off the horse, and it disappeared right after. Death walked up to the entrance, and I promptly followed. Leading inside, was the same space mixture I saw earlier, forming a path. There were 4 main sections, each housing a gargantuan portal. The first one on the left was dark, devoid of any light. There were fires surrounding it, as I heard cries and pleads for help emanating from the portal. A dark pattern was embroidered on the portal, which appeared almost satanic. I was not at all interested in deciphering it. There was a long queue of people in line, all of who were either crying, begging for help, or simply too scared to even move. Hell, I figure. The next portal was a stark contrast to the first one. It gleamed the most, with its untarnished brightness almost blinding me. Gold and diamonds were scattered in the portal’s design, giving it a rich and pure feeling. There were winged people, presumably angels, flying around a line, smiling and praising them. All the people were excited, with some even crying out in pure joy. Couldn’t possibly guess what that one is. The second to last portal was weird. It didn’t keep one shape nor color. It kept on switching designs every time someone went through the portal. I assumed that was the reincarnation one. The last portal was transparent. It had no unique qualities, and it had the smallest line. Considering how empty it was, it only made sense that it was for those who wished to be erased.

Death led me to the center. He then turned around and asked me, “It’s time. Choose your fate. Paradise, or reincarnation?”

Obviously, this was a very important and tough decision. Since we had all the time in the world, I decided to take my time. Death wasn’t too pleased with that, but he didn’t interrupt me.

There were benefits and restrictions for both sides. For one, paradise is just great. Never ending happiness? All the food I want? No pain forever? It’s a no brainer, right? But, at the same time, if I reincarnated, I would have another chance at being an adventurer. I know, it sounds dumb. But, I still want to be one. This whole death experience made me realize how much I wasted my life. I let my parents control me for way too long. I lost too many friends, and too many opportunities. If I reincarnated, I would do what I want to do. No one would control me. No one would decide what I could or couldn't do.

“Death, upon reincarnation, do I keep my past life’s memories?”

"Typically, no. However, your new body will retain characteristics from your past life. Whether it's past dreams, favorite foods, or even your sense of humor, these traits will carry over. To answer your question more precisely, yes, in your new life, you will still aspire to be an adventurer."

In the end, I chose to be reincarnated, and I looked back at Death to tell him my answer, but I stopped. He was looking at something. I looked to see what he was distracted by, and I saw it. A family. A mom and dad, and their toddler son. I assumed he felt bad for them, which I also shared. It sucked that their lives ended so soon. Regardless, I was about to tell him I made my decision, but again, I stopped. But this time, it was different. It was as if I just found the last puzzle piece. I had a puzzle right in front of me, and I began to piece it together with clues I picked up on, but I didn’t know what it was all for. Until now, that is. I found the piece I needed. Death has emotions. He feels saddened by the family. But, what if it’s not only that they died so early? What if he also wants a family like that? He said he’s forced to work overtime. He feels tired, and he wishes to take breaks. He doesn’t like his job. He doesn’t want to be Death.

If this was my only chance at achieving my dream, it would mean sacrificing everything I know and love. Wait. Is that what Grandpa meant? “There comes a moment in every person's life when they must decide whether to wake up and take the first step or remain in blissful reverie. Only after experiencing that reverie can you truly decide whether to pursue your dream or relegate it to mere fantasy." That last pinky promise he made to me. He made it on his deathbed. Even if it means death and losing everything I love, am I willing to still do it? Is that what you meant…..Grandpa?

“Death. I have a question for you.” I said as I stared at him right in the eyes.

Death was slightly put off by my sudden change in mood. “What is it?”

“Have you ever had a dream?”

“A dream? What do you mean?”

"A dream of a conventional life. A dream of a loving spouse and delightful children. A dream of friends who bring laughter every day. A dream where you choose your ocupation. A dream of fulfillment, a life offering a happiness previously unimaginable. A dream that isn't this."

Death didn’t answer as he stared back at me. Honestly, it was kind of unnerving to see him stare with those dead-looking eyes. “....It would be a lie if I said I never have had one.”

Why does he have to talk like that? “Death, you know my entire life. You know my dream. You know my aspirations of wanting to be an adventurer. You know how far I’m willing to go for it.”

Death kept on staring. He clearly seemed interested in what I was going to say.

“I want to make a deal with you.” I declared with a straight face.

Death’s face showed visible signs of surprise. “...A deal? What exactly kind of deal?”

I had to pause to regain my calmness. “I will take your place of being Death.”

Neither of us spoke. A growing chill went up my spine, and my heart began to beat faster and faster. Death merely stayed quiet, as he stared intently at me. It was like that for what felt like hours, but it probably didn’t even last a minute.

“You’ll take my place? Be more specific.”

Good. He’s at least considering it. “I will reincarnate, and upon my death, I will become the new Death. You’ll, in return, be able to take my remaining karma. You can reincarnate, go into paradise, whatever. The point is this. Your dreams don’t have to be dreams any longer.”

Before Death could respond, I quickly stopped him. “Before you answer, I have three conditions. If we think about it, I’ll serve as Death for all eternity, when all I get is a finite life. It’s only fair that I get some conditions, right?”

Death’s expression didn’t change. He was eyeing me hard, and I was beginning to think if I went too far. Finally, he said, “.....State your conditions.”

He took the bait. “Number 1. I get to choose any world I want to be reincarnated in. Be it fantasy, futuristic, medieval, or even the world I came from. If I let you decide, then there’s a possibility you might choose a world that I would die quickly in. It makes sense that I can at least pick it.”

Death simply looked back at me, and nodded his head. “That’s reasonable. What are the other 2?”

Alright, it’s going well so far. “I’ll most likely be picking a fantasy world, so I’ll need a system. The type of system that protagonists use in mangas. The ones that you can ask any questions about the world, to help you level up, to give quests, and to use in-build commands to help survive the world. For instance, the scan command. I would also like for it to level up as I level up.”

Death seemed a bit bothered by that last statement, which I was prepared for. “If it’s too much, then you can forget about it leveling up with me. Everything else I listed is what I believe to be vital for a useful system.”

That sounded better to Death, as he nodded his head and asked, “What’s your last condition?”

This is the last hurdle. “For my last condition, I want you to give me your magic.”

Death’s eyes widened after hearing that. They then returned to normal size, but now with suspicion. “What do you mean, my magic?”

Uh oh. “I want you, upon my reincarnation, to bless me with magic. An example would be, if you were a fire god, you would bless me with unparalleled talent for fire magic. I want you to do the same, but with your magic. If you think it sounds unfair, then I have a proposal.”

The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

Death was interested in that. “A proposal?”

Hook, line, and sinker. “You will make it so I am unable to learn any other form of magic, besides normal magic itself. I will be incapable of learning fire, water, or any elemental magic. You can also include other forms of magic, if there are any in the world that I choose. All I ask in return is to give me a magic of yours. Of course, if it doesn’t appeal to me, then I would ask for another, or I will come up with a new condition.”

Death was clearly intrigued by this. He was carefully going over his options, as he looked at me intently. The two of us stood still, as I waited for his response. Finally, he said, “Soul magic.”

Got his ass.

“Soul magic? Could you explain what it is?” It was hard for me to hide my smile.

“With this magic, you will be able to empower your own soul, resulting in a higher mana capacity and discharge. With that being said, I have never seen a world with this magic being used. I myself do not typically use it in that fashion. It will be mainly up to you and your system to figure out the limits of it.”

I had to fake a thinking face, to make Death think I wasn’t too sure about it, but I was actually aiming for this. “I don’t know…..it doesn’t sound really practical.”

Death seemed deep in thought, until he came up with an idea. “If it matters, I am willing to allow the last portion of your second condition to be true. I will let your system level up with you. But, of course, I will have to place restrictions on your soul magic. For example, you will not be capable of instantly killing people due to erasing their souls.”

Perfect.

“In that case……Sure. It’s a deal.” I reached out my hand.

Death reached out as well, and the two of us shook hands. He then said, “To prevent any attempts of breaking our promise, I will initiate a soul-binding contract. This is vital to ensure that, no matter what happens, upon your death, you will hold up your end.”

A soul-binding contract? Looks like my guess was right.

“Sure. I accept it.”

Within our two bodies, two glowing orbs began to shine.

“???, repeat after me.”

I nodded my head in affirmation.

“I vow on the essence of my very own soul,”

“I vow on the essence of my very own soul,”

“That I will maintain integrity, and follow through with this covenant.”

“That I will maintain integrity, and follow through with this covenant.”

“If I may break the rules and besmirch this oath,”

“If I may break the rules and besmirch this oath,”

“Then shall my soul be damned.”

“Then shall my soul be damned.”

“I swear this upon the Supreme Divinity.”

“I swear this upon the Supreme Divinity.”

Throughout the entire process, our souls kept spinning around, faster and faster, making a whirring sound. It was only at the end, when they stopped, and lost their glow.

“That’s that.” I said turning to the reincarnation portal. “It’s time to stop dreaming, and start living.” I couldn’t believe my plan and strategies worked. It felt like finally, things were going well for me. I started walking to the portal, but Death stopped me.

“???, just a moment”

I turned around slowly, hesitant and cautious. Death was looking at me, with a gleam in his eyes.

“I may not be able to read minds, but I am capable of perceiving one’s soul. It is an ability of mine to understand one's true intentions. As of this moment, ???, I sense that you are being deceitful.”

My heart stopped. I had figured this was a possibility, but I didn’t know to what extent. If he truly could, then my best move would be to keep a poker face. If I tried to lie to him, he would simply see through it and start suspecting me more.

Death got closer, as he started rubbing his chin. “What could you possibly be lying about?” He leaned in close, as he tried reading my face. However, I was good at giving nothing away. “I see that you are experienced with keeping a neutral look. However, that won’t be enough to fool me.”

I was conflicted. Would this be the best move for me? Wouldn’t this just prove I did have something to hide? And, my poker face also confirmed that I had predicted this scenario, which meant that this was all planned out. If Death figured this out, it would make sense to assume that I was trying to swindle him. However, for now, I would wait for Death to make his move. If it came down to it, I prepared for contingencies like this.

Death then backed up, as he held up a finger.

"Your first condition was selecting your own world. You endeavored to dismiss it, persuading me that it would be unjust if I made the choice. You were also aware of my desperation, knowing that the first condition would most swiftly be accepted. Thus, why the world? What else do you stand to gain?"

I didn’t answer. I was not going to give anything away, at least yet.

"Perhaps this is the reason. You wished to choose a world where mastering soul magic would be swift and effortless. You concealed this under the guise of fairness, when in truth, you sought an advantage from the start. Did you desire a world where souls and mana were interwoven? A world where soul magic would reign supreme?.”

"This then begs the question, why did you pretend you didn’t desire it? Is it because you knew I wouldn’t grant you death magic? You understood it would be impossible to bestow that upon you, as it would disrupt the balance of life and death if a mortal wielded such power. So, you decided to settle for the second-best option: soul magic. You likely deduced this from when you learned about my presence in magical worlds. It only made sense that I would have magical abilities. But still, why the pretense? What else would this aid you in achieving?"

Death tried to read my eyes. He was getting real close.

He then let out a small smile. “Ah, that’s it. The second condition.”

Fucking shit.

"You gave me two options for the system: one that would level up, and one that would not. You made it appear as though the leveling system was unfair to me, which is why you offered the second option. By accepting one of the choices you presented, I fell into your trap. You then asked for magic, and knowing I would offer soul magic, you feigned disinterest. Out of desperation, I made you an offer: to make it fair once more, since soul magic seemed not to entice you, I would allow your system to level up. Is that it? Is that why I sense you deceived me?”

I didn’t say anything for a bit. I merely closed my eyes and took a deep breath. This should be the perfect moment. If I waited any longer, he might uncover more of my plan. I opened my eyes as I looked at him with a cheeky smile. “You caught me. I did all of that, ensuring my pick for a world, soul magic, and a system, to be able to make a soul-binding contract with someone else. This contract would release me from your promise and appoint someone else in your place. If it was invalid, at the very least, a contradiction would come into play, and a clause I put in the contract would come forth, resulting in the said soul being offered to take your place and restore order."

I wasn’t lying to him. That was my main objective here, which meant my soul would appear truthful to Death. There shouldn't be any signs of deceit lingering any longer.

Death’s face kept the same bored look on his face, until he shocked me. He let out a small chuckle. “I must admit, you are quite amusing.”

Amusing? Did that mean….

“So, do you want to cancel our contract then? Should I just reincarnate normally?” I asked with a somber expression.

“No. We’ll keep it.” Death said as he started walking to the reincarnation portal.

What’s going on?

I followed him to the portal, and we stood there, waiting in line.

“I’m excited to see what you will accomplish in this new world. With your cunning wit and determination, you’ll surely at least grant me some enjoyment.”

“Why are you still willing to do this?”

Death paused. It seemed that he wasn’t sure on how to word his answer. "You're likely my sole opportunity to break free from this perpetual existence. Despite its stability and simplicity, it's not what I desire. I yearn for a normal life, one not dictated by others, but forged by my own choices. A life where I am free to pursue my own path. "However, I am too afraid to attempt it. I do not want to face the consequences of defying the Supreme Divinity and the Fates, which is why I remain as Death. But when you appeared and offered a deal, I saw this as my best chance. Instead of confronting them directly, I will hide behind you. I will use you as a shield while I reach for what I once thought was an impossible dream.”

He then smiled. "But, that’s not the only reason. As I observed you during your lifetime, I sensed a kindred spirit. We lead parallel lives and share similar mindsets. Both of us yearn for autonomy, yet we were thrust into lives we had no say in. Both of us were enslaved from the start, misled into believing we could find success and fulfillment by following our creators—your parents, in your case, and the Supreme Divinity in mine. But neither of us desired that fate. We strived for more. We dreamed of our own paths, glimpsing a brighter future we chose to believe in, clinging to hope that one day we would attain it. Yet, it eluded us no matter how hard we tried….until now. If it’s you, then I am willing to stop being controlled by fear, and I will reach out to that once long-forgotten dream.”

Death sighed as he looked down at his feet. “It's regrettable our meeting had to occur in such circumstances.” He looked back up at me, with a bigger smile, a smile that looked too tiring, even for someone like him. “In another life, I believe we could have been comrades."

I let out a giggle upon hearing that. “Comrades? You mean friends, dumbass.”

Death’s eyes widened in shock. One would assume that he was offended by what I said, but what happened next proved the opposite. His eyes returned to normal, this time, laughing silently. Death watched me my entire life, so it was only normal that he knew that I would call only a close friend “dumbass.”.

A few minutes passed, and it was time. Death has helped me choose a world. This world is set in a medieval time period, but it also has magic. There are countless magical beasts, with several different races and civilizations. Most of the world isn’t mapped yet, and there are still hidden dungeons and labyrinths scattered around the world. It seemed perfect for me, since mana and souls were also directly connected.

“???, are you ready?”

“Honestly, no. But, does that really matter?”

“Actually, yes, it does matter. I’m not allowed to send you in if you’re not willing.”

“Oh ... .well, can you psyche me up then?”

“......”

“.......”

“You got this.”

“Yeah, you fit being Death pretty well. I don’t think you would ever be good at being a motivational speaker.”

“Get going already.”

I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, as I went back into my memories. I remembered that map on that field trip way back when I was still peeing in my bed. I remembered Grandpa and his dream. I remembered Grandpa as he lay dying on that hospital bed. I remembered my parents, and how they made me feel like a puppet, and they were my masters. I remembered Robert when we both promised to achieve our dreams. I opened my eyes as I stared ahead at the portal. It was dark gray, mixed with black and white to give it a yin and yang appearance. I turned around and waved goodbye to Death. He waved back. That reminds me. I still have one more memory. I remembered my newest friend’s dreams and feelings of having no control over his life. I remembered why I wanted to be an adventurer. To not only explore, but to give meaning to my own life, to be free from society and do what I wish to do, and finally, to meet people who I’ll be able to create true bonds with.

I walked into the portal.