The last thing Ikarus remembered was the cold, echoing emptiness that came with the final beat of a broken heart. He didn't recall the blade piercing his side, the desperate apologies, or the hollow footsteps that faded as his world bled away. Instead, he felt himself drifting—weightless, untethered, somewhere between sorrow and possibility.
But death, as it turned out, was anything but silent.
A thunderclap reverberated around him, sharp and crystalline, shattering the silence of the void. Blue-white lightning flashed across the endless expanse. The world rebuilt itself, line by shifting line, fractal by fractal, until a vast, marble-floored hall stretched before him. Overhead, thunderclouds swirled, illuminated by bolts of electricity that never quite struck the golden columns lining the space.
A massive emblem was inlaid into the marble: the symbol for infinity, flickering with gentle pulses of light.
In that instant, Ikarus realized his journey had taken a detour. He'd grown up on stories of ancient Indian gods, their intricate courts and timeless cycles. He braced himself for an audience with Indra, or perhaps Krishna. He expected lotus ponds, incense, and the serene severity of judgment.
But what he got instead was something new: the Infinity God's domain—a divine Palace that hummed and crackled like a supercharged monsoon.
From behind a bank of translucent, thunder-glazed screens emerged a figure whose every movement left trails of energy in the air. He looked both youthful and ancient, lithe in form but electric with the barely-contained impatience of a lightning bolt. Most striking was his hair, streaming out behind him like a tempest, and his eyes, which sparkled with the chaotic beauty of a summer storm.
Infinity God was pacing, muttering to himself, fingers tapping out calculations in the air, lightning darting up his arms and occasionally arcing to the rafters. He was—decidedly not—the type to sit serenely on a pedestal.
"Impossible," Infinity God snapped, flicking a notification away from the air. "Someone penetrated my infinity today. That shouldn't even be possible. Protocols fail, but not my protocols." He circled a holographic display, studying it with a mixture of irritation and awe. "A soul. From the Indian circuit? How…curious."
A heavy step echoed through the infinity chamber. Entering with the gravity of myth, a second figure appeared: the Demi God, encased in elegant celestial armor, sword at his hip, exuding the kind of quiet power that made mortals believe in legends. His presence commanded respect, but his eyes—wide and intense—were fixed on Infinity God with pure admiration, bordering on devotion. He lingered at the threshold, hesitant but already eager for instruction, ready to witness or defend at a moment's notice.
Watching Infinity God, Demi God's gaze was full of yearning: he wanted to learn, to be as quick, as innovative, as boldly different. Yet, beneath the awe was a flicker of concern—for the cosmic order, and for what it might mean if his idol's domain was breached.
Infinity God didn't notice the longing. He stopped short as Ikarus blinked awake on the cold marble. "Well, would you look at that—you're conscious already. Not bad for someone who off-roaded straight through my firewall."
Ikarus struggled to focus. "Is this—where am I?"
"You're in my domain, the Hall of Infinity. You weren't supposed to come here, not by any prophecy or protocol. Indian souls have dedicated lines. You bypassed all of them. That's… actually impressive, if we're being honest." His grin was a flash of lightning—proud, a bit competitive, and not a little amused.
From his place near the door, Demi God finally spoke, attempting his most dignified voice. "Infinity God, the Council will demand answers. Mortals from India simply don't arrive here. The myth-gods guard their paths jealously."
Infinity God rolled his eyes, blowing out a visible sigh of electric vapor. "The myth-gods are stuck in tradition. That's their problem. Here is different—and so are you, mortal. What's your name?"
"Ikarus," he said quietly, nerves returning. "I… I was supposed to go somewhere else, I think."
"You think?" Infinity God shot back, leaning forward, eyes alight with curiosity. "No one comes to my infinity by accident. Something unusual is at play."
Demi God's admiration was shining; he hung on every word, even as he tried to project an aura of gravitas. "Infinity God, should we—"
"Relax, Demi." Infinity God waved a hand, and a seat of clouds formed beneath Ikarus. "He's with us now."
Ikarus tried to process the surreal scene—the deific banter, the crackling hall, the ever-watchful Demi God. He almost wished for the quiet lotus pond of tradition.
Infinity God clapped, making lightning snap in the air. "Since you're a first, you get options. Most transmigrators end up with whatever their fate hands them, but today… I'm feeling generous. You can choose your system—want a classic power-up? Sword skills and pure muscle? Or perhaps you want to explore something riskier… the Lust System?"
Ikarus blinked. "That's a thing?"
Infinity God's laugh was thunderous, full of delight. "Why wouldn't it be? This is the multiverse—adventure's half the fun. And sex, romance, temptation—they can be just as transformative as fighting monsters. Both mess with your head, but only one might make you immortal. Your choice."
Demi God, trying to maintain his official bearing, couldn't hide a curious smirk. He glanced at Infinity God, envy and awe mingled in his face. To be so bold, so casual in divine matters, was itself a kind of power he admired deeply.
Ikarus, awkward, said "…I just wanted a chance. To not be hated or alone. Even if all I get is a hand to hold, it'd be more than I ever had before."
Infinity God's expression softened, and Demi God's admiration deepened. Infinity God spoke more gently, "Believe it or not, I already know. I watched your entire story—every pain, every longing, every laugh you had to hide when people wouldn't let you be happy. That's the gift of Infinity: there are no secrets here."
Ikarus felt truly seen for the first time in his existence. Demi God, eyes wide, was watching Infinity God's every move, awed at his understanding, longing to one day wield such authority with equal empathy.
Infinity God stood, his aura blazing. "The multiverse is about forging strength, not following rules. I never cared if my enemy was stronger—I'd run, fight, fly, or even die… but I'd do it my way. That's what made me Infinity God. That's what makes Demi God want to be like me." He grinned at the armor-clad assistant, who flushed with pride.
The air in the Hall of Infinity hummed with potential, as though every bolt of lightning carried a thousand possibilities yet unspoken. Ikarus swallowed, the weight of the moment pressing in on all sides. This was not the afterlife of tranquil hymns he'd vaguely expected. This was wild and strange, the air charged with humor, curiosity, and the awe of a god's direct gaze.
Infinity God, resplendent in sapphire energy, hovered a meter off the ground, arms crossed, one eyebrow raised in playful challenge. "So, Ikarus. Do you want the usual? A power system—martial might, sword skills, forbidden magic? Or—you can be the first soul under my domain to wield both the classic and Lust Systems. No one else got that deal."
The demi god, still standing just behind Infinity God, was nearly glowing with admiration, lips parted in anticipation. He studied Ikarus with hungry curiosity, as though trying to understand what had earned this mortal such interest and choice from the one he idolized.
Ikarus glanced between them, unsure. "You're actually letting me pick…?"
Infinity God grinned. "You crashed Infinity, man. The least I can do is reward that kind of initiative. Besides, the old order is dusty. You're here now. Embrace what you want, not what's been decided for you."
The demi god finally gathered the courage to speak. There was just a hint of quiver to his fierce voice—a trace of nerves, betraying how much he wanted to mirror Infinity God's casual brilliance. "Infinity God's systems are not given lightly. Cherish his generosity, mortal. And know that few are ever tested by both pleasure and power. Most shrink from even one."
Ikarus took a breath. "I'm not afraid of hardship. It's all I've ever known." His voice faltered, memory overwhelming. "My parents despised me for existing. My brother took what should have been mine, even the girl I loved. I failed at happiness a hundred times. Is strength… or love… something I get to choose now?"
Infinity God gave him a look—electric blue, sharp, and gentle all at once. "That's the catch, Ikarus. These systems are tools. Keys, maybe. But the doors you open—they're still your choice. You can claim power. You can chase lust, find love, pursue destiny. Or you can create your own legacy out of pain. The real system is resolve."
Ikarus blinked, caught off guard by the openness, the cosmic candor. "You're not like any god I ever prayed to."
Infinity God laughed—a rumble like distant thunder, full of delight and a little sadness. "Prayers are nice. But action's better. Take it from someone who ran to godhood: I broke every rule the old ones set. They hate me for it. Even now, other gods call this domain the outcome of a cosmic glitch." He glanced fondly at the demi god. "Except for a very few who see the beauty of forging a new path."
The demi god blushed—yes, blushed—even through his bronze armor, standing a little taller, caught in the glow of Infinity God's approval.
Infinity God circled Ikarus, voice growing intense. "So, you want power? You'll have it. But I'll be generous because I sense something rare in you—a hunger not for destruction or acclaim, but for meaning." Lightning crackled, and a floating screen appeared, scrolling with lists of systems, attributes, and selectable features. "Scroll through and choose what speaks most to you. No rush."
The demi god couldn't hide his amazement as Infinity God handed so much agency to a mortal. Normally, the process was rigid—predestined. He admired this, watching every gesture like a student with his master.
Ikarus's eyes darted through options: Battle Instinct, Battle Adaptation, Mastery, and Aura. Swords of shadow and lightning. Soul resonance. He hesitated on "Lust System," uncertain.
Infinity God, catching the pause, smirked. "Don't look so scandalized. Romance and desire are ancient powers too. Sometimes mightier than a sword. Besides, you deserve the chance to feel wanted—for yourself."
Ikarus's lips twitched into a small, grateful grin. "Alright. Let's take both. If I'm going to start over, I want all the tools."
The demi god was so taken aback he almost dropped his sword. "Two systems? You honor him with excess, Infinity God."
But Infinity God only winked, his neon gaze shimmering with warmth. "Be honored, yes—but beware: with two systems, the challenges you face will multiply as well. A double-edged gift can cut both ways." He extended a hand and blue sparks coiled around Ikarus, filling him with a shiver of nascent power—like the thrill of a storm on bare skin.
The demi god—eyes round with awe—leaned close to Infinity God, voice soft and reverent. "Why… why give him so much?"
Infinity God's gaze never left Ikarus, but his words were for his companion. "It's his eyes. They are unlike any I have seen. His soul burns with an intent that even my infinity can feel. Sometimes, to change the world, you need a new variable—one no one expects."
The demi god nodded, admiration deepening, quietly vowing to learn from this moment.
Ikarus, awash with gratitude and still tingling from the power's entry, tried for a joke. "So, does my package come with a warranty, or am I on my own?"
Both Infinity God and the demi god laughed—one cosmic and electric, the other earnest and proud.
Infinity God grinned. "No warranties in divine admin, but maybe a souvenir: before you go, pick the body you want for your next world. Express delivery guaranteed."
Ikarus's heart raced at the freedom, the strangeness of being wanted, chosen, built up instead of torn down.
Infinity God flicked his wrist, and the cosmic air shimmered. A dazzling, semi-transparent menu unfolded before Ikarus, displaying figure after figure—every height, build, color, and style imaginable. The options danced, radiant and customizable, as if each was plucked from a gallery of legendary heroes.
"All right, mortal—choose wisely!" Infinity God winked, his tone a playful echo of old-fashioned game shows. "This next avatar is you for the foreseeable future. Want to be a grizzled giant? A silver-haired pretty boy? Half-demon, two meters tall, washboard abs, anime protagonist eyes? Go wild—it's the Infinity God's treat."
Ikarus couldn't help but stare in amazement. Even the demi god, normally unflappable, was drawn to the display, eyes wide with curiosity about what choices the mortal would make.
Ikarus tapped on features, cycling through options. "Unexpectedly slim, six pack, blue eyes, hair long and black… but tied, like a swordsman. Keep it… cool, but not too cliché. Let's not make me look ridiculously overpowered from the start."
Infinity God threw his head back and laughed, thunder crackling. "Oh, don't be modest. I've seen souls become dragons, intergalactic warlords, or… accountants. Compared to the average transmigrant, this is downright classy."
The demi god, trying to insert his own wisdom, straightened. "Remember, outer strength must be matched with inner resolve. Honor the body you choose with your deeds."
Ikarus saluted in mock solemnity. "I promise to match my abs with noble actions, O wise demi god."
Infinity God was almost in tears from laughing—electric arcs fizzled at his fingertips. "That's the spirit! Who cares what the other gods think? Tradition's nothing without the courage to break it. Demi here might act all dignified, but he's just as curious about what being new means."
Demi god blushed again, awed by every spontaneous move Infinity God made, yet a tiny bit jealous of the easy bond forming between mortal and deity. "Infinity God honors you deeply with his laughter. Few witness such generosity."
As Ikarus finalized selections, the cosmic menu pulsed and closed, the choices set. Infinity God snapped his fingers and Ikarus felt a warm, tingling breeze wrap around him, reshaping, rebuilding. He glanced down, flexing fingers, rolling shoulders—his new form stronger, sharper, a perfect, athletic balance of the man he'd never dared to become.
Momentarily awkward, he glanced at Infinity God. "So… does every transmigrator get this much say, or am I just lucky?"
Infinity God circled him, inspecting the changes with a scrutinizing (and very approving) eye. "Usually, the system assigns avatars based on karmic debt and narrative necessity. But you? You bypassed tradition, hacked infinity by sheer pain and force of will. That kind of glitch deserves a gift."
Demi god leaned toward Infinity God, reverence bright in his voice. "You always see greatness where others see risk, Infinity God."
Infinity God shrugged, a spark bursting from his shoulder. "Risk is the fuel of heroes, Demi. Besides, what's the point of being a god if you can't shake things up once in a while?"
Ikarus cleared his throat. "So, what's next? Divine tutorial, tragic backstory reveal, loot crate?"
Infinity God conjured a shimmering scroll, tossing it to Ikarus. "Close. Four starter skills for being so cooperative—and so entertaining. Battle Adaptation, Battle Instinct, Battle Mastery, and Battle Aura. That makes you a warrior built for survival… and climactic final battles!"
Ikarus grinned, taking the scroll. "Is there an achievement for making you laugh?"
Infinity God beamed. "You've broken at least three records already. And if you survive your first arc, you might be the first soul ever inducted to the Infinity Hall of Fame."
Demi god, moved by the entire ceremony, bowed deeply—his armor clinking, eyes full of hope and admiration. "Carry our gifts well, Ikarus. Strength, joy, even lust—all become sacred if used for the right purpose. May you honor Infinity God's name in your every conquest."
Infinity God, always playful, leaned in conspiratorially. "And remember: you don't have to pick between a world-saving quest and handholding. Go wild, make friends, make enemies—heck, make out, if you want. Just be true to your resolve. Systems are tools. Destiny is what you build with your own two hands—and, sometimes, abs."
Everyone laughed—yes, even the demi god, whose composed exterior fell away for a moment of brimming, honest joy.
Feeling powerful, a little nervous, but ready, Ikarus stood tall in his new form, tension melting into anticipation.
Infinity God's gaze became serious, voice steady as thunder in the distance. "This is your last chance for questions or requests. When the portal opens, you'll begin your new life—memories sealed but instincts and systems intact. Make it count, Ikarus. Make it legendary."
Ikarus, feeling a little cocky now in his newly minted body, eyed the demi god—who had grown steadily more flushed with each bit of praise and laughter between Infinity God and himself. Smiling with mischievous innocence, Ikarus nudged the demi god. "You know, you admire Infinity God so much, I bet if gods had weddings you'd be first in line for a thunderbolt ring."
Demi god stiffened, armor creaking. "Preposterous! My admiration is purely professional. I—I respect his way, his strength, his… innovation!" His voice rose with flustered dignity, but a touch of pink warmed his cheeks.
Infinity God arched a brow, half amused, half curious. "Demi, you sure about that? There's been some speculation in the cosmic grapevine… and if you're holding a crush, it's literally electrifying."
Demi god coughed, floundering for words. "Infinity God! Such rumors…! Besides, mortals should not mock their betters." But his mouth twitched upward, half a smile betraying hidden delight in the teasing.
Ikarus shrugged, grinning. "Hey, I'm just saying—divine admin looks more interesting than I thought."
Infinity God clapped his hands, making blue sparks erupt into a swirling vortex. The portal—bigger than any he'd conjured before—opened, its core shimmering with thousands of stars and roads to endless realms.
Infinity God peered inside, frowning, his thoughts racing. "Hmmm. Something's… diverting my signal. You're not going to some generic fantasy realm, Ikarus. This portal leads to the Grand World—largest one in the database. Even a demi god would struggle to climb the ranks there."
Demi god's eyes widened, awe and worry mingling. "Infinity God… that world's full of epic beings, ancient monsters, power systems stacked like mountains. Even I would have trouble ascending there."
Infinity God's brow furrowed, gaze intense. "Exactly. For you to be routed there—someone or something is testing me. Maybe a rival god, maybe the Council. But let them. My chosen one will kick ass, shake worlds, and rewrite destinies."
Demi god stepped closer, voice low. "To do this against Infinity God… must be someone who challenged the High Council, maybe the Red Dynasty itself."
Infinity God's mouth twisted into a grin, equal parts wild and determined. "That's just more fun for me. I'll find out who's interfering soon enough. Until then, you'll be my thunderbolt sent down to break systems and defy tradition."
Ikarus, half amused and half daunted, saluted with mock drama. "I'll try not to disappoint your cosmic expectations. As long as I get to use both my fists and, apparently, my very authorized lust system."
Demi god snorted, recovering his dignity. "Go, Ikarus. Even in adversity, strength is in the heart and humor you wield. Honored to bear witness."
Infinity God extended his hand one last time, lightning dancing around his wrist. "Ready, mortal?"
Ikarus looked at both the Infinity God and the demi god—the two figures he'd come to respect and joke with in such a short time. Then, with the portal swirling and fate beckoning, he stepped forward.
Infinity God's voice boomed across the marble expanse. "Grow strong, Ikarus—defy every limit. Make me proud. And remember, resolve trumps everything."
Demi god, more solemn now, bowed deeply—a gesture of sincere honor that few mortals had ever received.
The portal surged, wrapping Ikarus in light and hope, sending him toward the Grand World—where his new body, powers, and tangled systems would be tested in ways none could predict.
As the marble hall faded, Infinity God grinned, speaking to the cosmic currents. "Let the meddling gods try me. My chosen one will rewrite every script they can imagine."
Demi god, eyes shining, whispered to the thunder, "I will learn, Infinity God. I will stand as you do… and I will watch our mortal make history."
And with a final echo, the Hall of Infinity returned to its charged silence—its newest legend already on the way.