Lord of the Time: I Can Reincarnate Infinitely

Chapter 120: 120: A Glimpse on Perception

In the underground cave, Caleb felt he was in a rocky world that felt ancient. The walls were rough, and they sparkled with colorful minerals like hidden treasures.

The air was cool and a bit damp, like after a rain. Water droplets clung to the stones, making them look shiny. Caleb's steps made echoes in the big cave that made it seem even larger.

As they went further, he saw something incredible. Tiny flies, like fireflies, glowed softly and flew around, making the cave seem magical. They made a soft humming sound as they moved.

The walls of the cave were full of colorful minerals, like purple, green, and blue gems. Each mineral looked like a valuable jewel, and they added to the beauty of the cave.

Shu stared at the fireflies with a serene expression. 'These are the only sources of light here. Well, fortunately. That damned Zetsu didn't even tell us that it will be conducted here. If we knew, I would have brought a damn torch.

"We've been going around for an hour. Yet Zetsu-Sensei is still nowhere to be found? I can't feel my legs anymore. Still, is this supposed to be a test of agility? The only thing we did was to walk." Kazuto sighed.

Rozho gave Kazuto a look. 'That's why I hate people that live in the city. They are too pampered. We haven't done much yet, and he was already complaining... Might as well give up. Why the fuck are you here?'

Kazuto, for some reason, felt that Rozho was thinking something unpleasant about him. However, he didn't dare to antagonize the guy. After all, he knew he would not end up well. The other party has comprehended the sword intent. Not to mention Rozho wasn't as unpleasant as a certain prick. 'I wonder where Zetsu-Sensei is...'

'I really hate caves.' Kidd thought as he followed Caleb's back with a frown. Although the underground of the cave looks more beautiful than what he had expected. The darkness and silence that made their footsteps echo made him quite uncomfortable.

Suddenly, Rozho who was in front of them, stopped in his tracks, which made the other four behind him vigilant. They might not look prepared, but they are actually alert.

'Why did he stop?' Shu immediately took forward. But there was nothing but darkness ahead. 'Hmm... I'm not really good at low light. The concentration of flies here is lower than in the areas. This is a problem.'

Kidd also stepped forward and opened his mouth to ask.

"Guys, why the hell did you stop?"

Caleb, on the other hand, could see in the dark just fine. There were actually narrow passages just two meters away ahead. He sighed helplessly and said:

"There's narrow passages in front of us, that's why. We have to force our body to fit through if we want to move forward. There are also some protruding sharp rocks on some parts around, so we also have to be careful. It seems the real test had already started."

"Huh? We're supposed to make our way through narrow passages without seeing anything!? This is a joke, right?"

"That's the case. As Johan said. Though, my man Johan... How can you still see in such a dark place?"

"Because I have a night vision... Well, just kidding. My eyes are quite used to darkness because of the environment I grew in." Caleb lied through his teeth without thinking too much. "Enough of the nonsense. Since I'm the one who can see better out of all of us. I will be your guide this time."

"No, objections." Shu smiled.

Rozho also voluntarily made his way behind Caleb. He couldn't really talk since he had a sword in his mouth.

'Can you take that out for a second!?' Caleb couldn't help but complain in his mind.

Just like that, Caleb grasps the rough stones of the passages' wall with his hand. The cold was transmitted to his skin upon contact. He also felt the watery sensation it possessed.

One after another. The members followed. Rozho was the first one to follow. Then Shu, Kidd, Kazuto.

'Damn it!' Kazuto felt his heart pound a bit faster. His hands were sweating as he felt his back on the wall. He struggled to worm his way through the narrow walls and his back was even pricked by a sharp rock, which made him grunt silently. 'Fuck! I'm really weak against enclosed spaces.' Yes... He was currently feeling a sense of death. Anxious and low-key scared.

Of course, Caleb noticed this as he fully engaged his powerful spirit to monitor the states of the members. He couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at this. 'Claustrophobia?'

He took note of this silently in his mind. As for why? He might be able to use it against Kazuto in the future if he happens to become an enemy. Caleb believes that there is no eternal ally nor enemy in front of benefits. It's all just temporary. Just like what the legendary Fang Yuan said:

In the pursuit of benefits, there are no eternal allies or enemies, only eternal interests. What's beneficial today may become a burden tomorrow.

or...

Friendship is a fragile concept when compared to the allure of greater benefits. Loyalty, too, is often tested when personal interests clash with group interests.

or...

The world is a web of shifting alliances, where today's enemy might become tomorrow's friend, and yesterday's ally could betray you for their own gain.

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In Caleb's take. The first statement underscores the idea that, in a world driven by self-interest and ambition, personal benefits often take precedence over loyalty and friendship. It suggests that individuals should prioritize their long-term interests, even if it means changing allegiances. Loyalty can be a noble value, but it should not blind individuals to opportunities for personal growth and advantage.

The idea is that relationships, whether they are alliances or enmities, are not set in stone. They are dynamic and can change based on circumstances and benefits. Just because someone is your enemy today doesn't mean they will remain so in the future, and vice versa.

And the Fang Yuan quote points out the complexity of human relationships and the ever-evolving nature of allegiances. It suggests that individuals should be prepared for the unexpected, as those who were once allies might choose to betray or abandon their cause.