Lord of the Time: I Can Reincarnate Infinitely

Just like that, Caleb felt as if he was watching a replay of previous events. Hundreds of hands emerged from the gap of the gate and pulled the pale-faced David unhinged. Even though it was already the second time. Caleb was still creeped the heck out of them. Once again, he couldn't help but wonder. Just the fuck are these hands!? And what are they guarding behind the gate? Just how important are the items inside that the ruling would attach such a level of importance to them!? After all, David was a Tier 5 Destiny, yet he was helpless against the hands made of black mist.

"Johan, you're the first one to ascend from us. As expected of you. There's really no competition." Andre said with emotion. However, one could also see a hint of worry on his face if one looks carefully.

How can he not be worried? The last time, Caleb told them of what had happened. Apparently, the side effects of the upgrade on the Shadow Path were ten times more intense than the other paths!

Kazuto, Kidd, and Rozho looked at each other first before Kazuto nodded and proceeded to open his mouth to say:

"We will be outside of your room to guard, so we will be able to help quickly, just in case."

Rekka, on the other hand, didn't say negative things this time and just gave Caleb a nod of encouragement.

'What the fuck? This bastard is actually quite considerate this time? Did he have a change of heart or something?

Caleb decided not to think about it. Now, he had to focus his mental state on what was about to come.

As he thought of the murmuring at his ascension to Tier 9. He couldn't help but shudder. Fortunately, he wasn't unprepared for this time. Since he knew already what was coming in advance. He would be able to resist and prepare himself. Not only that, he did a lot of meditation in his spare time. Most importantly, his spiritual attributes aren't what it was like last time. With the boost of the two power systems, he was now more equipped to deal with the murmuring that could drive anyone mad.

'Damn it... The path to becoming stronger is really fraught with dangers. I just hope that it will not be as bad as last time.'

Just like that, a few moments passed. The Gate of Babel started to creak open which made the group take three steps back. Anything that has something to do with the gate would bring them to an edge.

"David," Caleb spoke, his curiosity piqued, "what's the significance of that orb? And where would my ascension take place this time?"

David, a faint smile on his pale face, gestured for Caleb and the others to follow him. As they entered another building, Kazuto, Kidd, and Rozho positioned themselves as guards outside, their vigilant eyes scanning the surroundings. Meanwhile, David led Caleb inside, ready to guide him through the process that awaited him within the mysterious room.

Just like that, Caleb found himself standing within the confines of the mysterious room. The atmosphere inside was different, almost palpable, and he couldn't help but study every detail with a keen eye.

The room was spacious, its walls adorned with ancient symbols that seemed to pulse with a soft glow. The air had a peculiar scent, a mixture of incense, and an indescribable energy that added to the room's mystique. A large, circular platform dominated the center, intricate patterns etched into its surface.

'What's up with this room?'

Caleb's eyes lingered on the platform, noticing faint traces of shimmering energy. He wondered if this was the key to unlocking the secrets of the Tier 8 shadow path. The ceiling above held a mural depicting the ascent of a figure towards enlightenment, a visual narrative that seemed to echo the purpose of the room.

David, sensing Caleb's curiosity, began to explain the room's significance. "This room has a long history," he started, his voice echoing in the sacred space. "It's said to be a conduit between realms, a place where the energies align perfectly for ascension. The symbols on the walls carry ancient wisdom, and the platform at the center acts as a bridge to higher planes."

Caleb snorted inwardly. 'Seems fishy, I must say.'

As David spoke, Caleb absorbed the details, his mind a sponge soaking in the information. "This room is a vessel for ascension, and the orbs I brought contain the essence of the Tier 8 shadow path. When combined with the energy of this room, it creates the perfect environment for your ascent to Tier 9. Of course, that is, it would help lessen the side effects. For example, the unbearable murmurings would become slightly bearable."

Caleb nodded, a mix of excitement and apprehension in his eyes. Lessening the side effects! That's all that he could wish for! Still, why did David decide to let him use such a useful room? Did he have a change of heart after his performance?

The room seemed to hum with potential, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he stood at the threshold of a significant transformation.

As if guessing Caleb's thoughts. David cleared his throat and said: "You must be wondering why I led you to this room. This room is actually exclusive to captains like me and Roger. Well, to answer your question, the badge you got from the awarding ceremony allows you to have this damn privilege. So no need to thank me."

'I don't plan to thank you even if that's not the case.' Caleb mused.

"Before we proceed, Johan, take a moment to center yourself," David advised, gesturing towards a small altar at the corner. "Meditate and attune your energy to the room. It will enhance the effectiveness of the ascension process."

Taking a deep breath, Caleb approached the altar, his spiritual senses attuned to the ancient energy that permeated the room. He wasn't really sure if it was energy or what. However, he could feel that it gave him a calming aura, which made him feel at peace.

'Now, I understand what mechanisms it uses that help lower the side effects.'

Caleb deduced.