facing "death"

As I made my way towards the desert, it became clear that it could be the only place where I might encounter "him." Perhaps, if I could somehow call out to "him," I could potentially summon "him" in some way.

I decided to determine my course of action upon reaching the desert.

After a few minutes, I found myself in the heart of the desert, surrounded by emptiness and solitude.

Me (in my mind): Hm... I have stumbled upon an isolated spot. Now, I can attempt to call upon "him."

The challenge was how to summon "him." Perhaps "he" was aware that "he" couldn't sense my presence. However, if I were to utter my name and grant "him" temporary access to "his" powers, "he" might be able to locate me.

A few moments later, I shouted out:

Me: Death!... Come forth! I am "Liran"! I am the individual you have been pursuing!

Upon uttering those words, I suddenly sensed an inexplicable presence emerging from the depths of nowhere. Was it the presence of Death?

Curiously, I found myself devoid of fear. Instead, an overwhelming sense of tranquility enveloped me. I managed to comprehend and embrace this presence.

Soon after, a being materialized before me, matching the exact description provided by Derek. It was a colossal humanoid figure, towering over 6 meters tall, exuding an immensely muscular physique. The being wore the same dark, hooded cloak as previously described.

And there "he" stood, a mere few meters away from me. I found myself face-to-face with Death.

DEATH'S POV:

As I searched for Liran, I heard a voice calling out to me:

"Death!... Come forth! I am 'Liran'! I am the being you have been searching for!"

Upon hearing those words, I felt an immediate connection, as if I could instantly locate him. I teleported myself in front of him, prepared to bring him to my "master."

And so, I found myself standing in the middle of the desert, where I finally saw him.

Liran appeared human, but I couldn't discern his face, nor sense his presence. It was as if he allowed me to perceive him and utilize my powers for a fleeting moment, only to nullify them immediately after.

Encountering such a being was profoundly intriguing to me. His entire existence captivated my attention and sparked my curiosity.

LIRAN'S POV:

There stood Death himself, yet I felt no fear or intimidation in his presence. I remained unshaken.

Fixing my gaze upon him, I spoke:

Me: You must be Death... Am I correct?

Death: Indeed, and you are the Liran of whom my "master" has spoken.

Me: You're right... I am Liran. Now, tell me, what is it that you desire?

Death: My "master" wishes to bring you to "his" palace. "He" finds you intriguing and captivating.

Me: So, that's what "he" wants? To take me to "his" domain? Is this some kind of twisted joke?

Death: Do not question the reasons of my "master." "His" intentions surpass your understanding.

Despite Death's cryptic response, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of curiosity and suspicion regarding the motives of his enigmatic "master."

Me: I couldn't care less about "his" reasons. Besides that, I have something to say or perhaps inquire.

Death: ?

In that moment, an idea sparked in my mind. Perhaps Death could provide some information about the entity responsible for Brock's death. It seemed like a worthwhile pursuit.

Me: Have you ever come across a young individual named "Brock"? He was slain by a god.

Death: Brock? While I am aware that certain humans have met their demise at the hands of gods, I have no knowledge of this particular individual.

Confusion washed over me upon hearing Death's response. How could Death himself be unaware of beings who had perished and those who were murdered? It simply made no sense!

Me: What? You've never heard of Brock? He was a human child, killed by a god. How is it possible that you don't know about this?

Death: Hm... Curious. I possess knowledge of every being's death, both past and future. Yet, I have no recollection of the "Brock" you speak of.

I found myself in a state of deep bewilderment and shock. How could Death, the very embodiment of mortality, have no information about Brock? It defied all logic and understanding.

But then, a realization struck me. I recalled what Rythmeus had mentioned before – that the being responsible for Brock's death was beyond his powers. If this entity was also beyond Death's powers, it would explain Death's lack of knowledge. I was surprised and shocked by this revelation, but it wasn't my immediate concern.

What mattered now was confronting Death about his actions towards Derek.

Me: How intriguing... Nevertheless, I still have matters to discuss.

Death: ?

Me: Have you come across a human named Derek? It's possible that you already know of him.

Death: Indeed, I encountered Derek last night and inquired about you.

Me: Yes, you questioned him about me and then proceeded to knock him out, nearly causing his demise. That wasn't a kind act.

Death: Be grateful that I spared his life. I could have easily obliterated him, ending his existence and separating him from you. But I chose not to.

I allowed your Derek to live. You should show gratitude for that.

Me: Yes, I am thankful for sparing his life. However, I also have a request for you.

Death: What is it?

Me: I want you to give me $10,000 as a gesture of apology.

Upon hearing my request, Death burst into laughter.

Death: You seek money as an apology for the harm inflicted upon your precious Derek? What a jest...

You know what, let us strike a deal. I will provide you with the money and take you to my "master." What are your thoughts on that?

Me: No, I cannot trust you or your "master." You should have approached me directly instead of targeting my friend and causing him harm.

I owe you nothing.

Death: Heh... In that case, you can wait forever for your money because I have no intention of giving it to you. But it matters not, for you will still come with me.

The commands of my "master" are to be obeyed.

Me: I refuse. If you wish to bring me to your "master," you will have to do so by force.

Death: Are you certain?

You will not survive.

With those words, Death conjured a massive scythe. After a moment, he firmly grasped it, preparing for a confrontation.

Me: Bring it on.

And so, the stage was set for a potentially deadly encounter.

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