From Human to Skeleton: Revived with Infinite System Crystals

Chapter 205: All hands on Deck

King Griswald, observing the flurry of activity and the pile of supplies that had been unloaded, expressed his astonishment. "And what is all of this for exactly?" he inquired, genuinely curious about the purpose behind the unexpected delivery.

Master Dagon, standing beside the King, offered an explanation. "Well, even if we are to take the train to get right over, it's important we be well stocked up on items in case our visit inside the cave is prolonged. We also need to ensure that the defensive team is well-supplied," he stated, emphasizing the necessity of being prepared for any eventuality.

"I see. Well, let's get a move on," King Griswald acknowledged, understanding the rationale behind the abundant supplies. Just as he spoke, the King's Royal Guard approached them. "Sir, I still need to go over the rest of the team," he said, indicating that there were additional details to discuss.

At that moment, Master Dagon snapped his fingers, and trails of sand began to form several circles on the ground. As the sandy swirls settled, people emerged from them, seemingly materializing out of thin air. The magical display was a testament to Master Dagon's powers and the extraordinary resources at their disposal.

The Royal Guard, noticing the assembled team members, cleared his throat to gain their attention. He unrolled a scroll and began to announce the members of Team 2:

"Team 2 will consist of Todd, Lady Nanako, Armond Zaraki, and Pegasus."

Upon hearing their names, Todd and Nana stepped forward, acknowledging their inclusion in this critical mission. Armond Zaraki, clad in his shimmering golden armor and looking fully rejuvenated, approached Lady Nanako with a respectful demeanor.

"Thank you, Madam," Armond began, his voice carrying a tone of genuine gratitude. "I heard from King Griswald himself that it's thanks to you we received those green pills. I know they were in limited supply, so I really appreciate your consideration, and for the king allowing me to be part of this final push."

Nanako responded with a nod, her expression serious and focused. "Don't worry about it. This is all to ensure we can destroy that cave or retrieve whatever we need to get stronger. We must do everything we can to get Ty back," she said, her fist clenching firmly as she spoke of their friend.

Pegasus, with a determined look in his eyes, joined the conversation. "I agree. I only met Ty for a short while, but he taught me so much in that time. I do not plan on failing him," he stated, his hand resting on the hilt of his sheathed katana. "I know he is strong and can hold his own. But I want to make sure when he makes it back here, his only worry will be about drinking good wine and relaxing."

Nanako and Todd exchanged a glance, slightly confused. "Who are you again?" they both asked, curious about this new member of their team.

Pegasus, realizing his introduction had been missed earlier, scratched his head a bit shyly. "Sorry, I was the guy Ty saved when he and the green guy jumped in to assist us with the fight," he explained. He looked earnestly at Nanako and Todd, acknowledging their longer association with Ty.

"He gave some good pep talks, and if I understand correctly, you two have been fighting alongside him for a while. I have a lot of questions, but let's save that for another time."

Pegasus's words added a personal dimension to their mission. His respect for Ty and his eagerness to ensure Ty's safe return resonated with Nanako and Todd, who could relate to the sentiment.

Todd, sensing an opportunity to lighten the mood, walked up to Pegasus and put a hand on his shoulder. "Of course, I'll tell you all about him, including the time I almost used him as a toothpick," he joked, eliciting a few chuckles from those nearby.

The Royal Guard, keen to proceed with the roll call, gave a soft cough to draw their attention. As Team 2 stepped off to the side alongside Team 1, the guard began reading from the scroll for the next lineup. "Team 3 will be," he announced:

Master Dagon

General Mattison

Lyra, Wielder of the Staff

Celeste, Wielder of the Celestial Orb

As Nanako observed the members of Team 3 assembling, her attention was initially captured by General Mattison and Master Dagon, familiar figures in the group. However, her gaze then shifted to Lyra and Celeste, two members she didn't recognize. Lyra in a red fitted outfite and Celeste in a blue one matching identically.

At that moment, Pegasus approached Nana. "Those were the other two with me the night Erebos attacked the Cathedral," he explained, providing her with the missing context. His revelation linked these new faces to a significant event in their shared history.

"Though we were defeated easily, it was a stark reminder of the vast power disparities in our world," he reflected, recalling their past encounter.

Nanako listened to Pegasus, his words illuminating the reasons behind Lyra and Celeste's presence.

Nanako gave him a sympathetic smile, understanding the feelings of helplessness against a powerful foe. "I can feel you there," she said. "Come, let's get going." Just then, a wooden ladder dropped from the train, which had been hovering in place, signaling it was time to board.

As they began to climb the ladder, King Griswald and his Royal Guard were wrapping up their strategic discussion. On the ground, the monsters began to emerge slowly. The Royal Guard, taking command of the situation, announced that he would stay behind to coordinate the defense.

"We've also devised a way to drop large explosives from the train's main hulls once you've been dropped off," he added, outlining a new tactic to hold back the monstrous onslaught.

King Griswald, intrigued by the innovative use of the train for combat, couldn't help but wonder about its functionality. "How are we even making the train function this far from the source?" he mused aloud, his curiosity piqued.

The Royal Guard, well-versed in the recent developments, explained, "We have learned a way to store the energy produced by the Main Source. Bracken has been working on creating Fuel Cells that can be used as portable units. Over the last couple of months, he's managed to make significant progress."

Understanding the importance of their mission, King Griswald expressed his concerns. "I see. Well, I hope to see you again soon, my good friend. Make sure you hold out here, but also keep a watchful eye on the capital. It's of utmost importance that the families stay safe, and we find that book once we return."

"Yes, sir. But why isn't the book of higher importance right now?" the Royal Guard inquired, seeking clarification on its priority.

King Griswald responded with a thoughtful look, "It's not active at the moment, so it's nothing more than a paperweight. But I have a feeling that once this ordeal is over, it will be key to finding the next creature we need to confront."

With a nod of understanding, the Royal Guard walked off to instruct the other guards to prepare for the defensive fight. King Griswald watched him go, knowing that the tasks ahead were daunting, but necessary. The train's innovative use as a weapon and the quest for the inactive book hinted at deeper layers of strategy and preparation.

The kingdom was not only fighting a present threat but also gearing up for future challenges, each move a step towards securing a safer future for their world.