From Human to Skeleton: Revived with Infinite System Crystals

Chapter 214: Trap Needles

Pegasus, after a moment of thoughtful consideration, shared his analysis. "Regardless, this at least leads us to a 50/50 on a path to take, in my opinion," he stated, trying to bring some clarity to their decision-making process.

Nana, placing a finger under her chin, pondered the options before them. "Given the situation we are in, it's likely we will face some level of challenge at some point, and it will have to take place in a large area," she reasoned. "In that case, if we take the first corridor, the furthest most left, then it's likely we make some type of loop or encounter another trap.

But if we take the middle path, it leads me to think it's likely to lead to an open area where whatever threat is waiting, we will have the chance to face it."

Her logical approach to the labyrinth's layout and potential dangers provided a new perspective on their choices. The group considered her words, understanding that each corridor they faced was a calculated risk.

Todd, who had been quietly listening to the discussion, finally spoke up. "Sounds like we have a plan then. The middle path might be our best bet for moving forward," he agreed, his voice carrying a renewed sense of purpose. "It's a risk, but at least we know what we might be dealing with."

Todd, still looking a bit perplexed, added his own thoughts to the mix. "That is a good idea, but just in case we still encounter traps, we should stay on our toes as we go down either corridor. I'm good with going down the 5th corridor. What do you say, Pegasus?"

Pegasus, without hesitation, grabbed the hilt of his katana. "I do like the idea," he stated, his voice reflecting his readiness for what lay ahead. As he withdrew his blade, the hilt, rough leather laced with a blue cord, slowly wrapped around his fingers. The katana itself was perfectly shined, its mirror-like surface catching the light and reflecting their determined faces.

Nana, a bit confused by Pegasus' action, questioned him. "Why are you drawing your sword out though?" she asked, though she couldn't help but admire the weapon's craftsmanship. "It does have a pretty shine to it though, if I have to say."

Pegasus, trying to maintain his composure, explained his reasoning. "Well, if we run into any surprises like flames, gas, or worse, I don't want to waste precious seconds drawing my blade," he stated, a hint of seriousness in his tone. "I have a bit of a shaky hand before I get fully going.

So, I think this might be the best course of action." As he spoke, he absently rubbed the side of his head, betraying a hint of nervousness beneath his calm exterior.

Nana, contemplating Pegasus' words, pulled out her wand. "I suppose that does make sense," she conceded as she began to lead the way down the fifth corridor. "Well, no time like the present. Let's get going." Her voice carried a mix of determination and a slight unease about the path ahead.

Todd, following closely behind her, couldn't help but comment, "You really want to get out of here, huh?"

Nana gave a slight nod in response, her eyes fixed on the corridor stretching out before them. "To be honest, this place is just creepy overall, so I just want to—" Her words were abruptly cut off as she felt the ground beneath her sink an inch. A loud snapping noise resonated from above and below, filling the corridor with an ominous echo.

Stunned for only a moment, Todd was suddenly struck by a massive boulder that had appeared from behind, sending him flying forward about 20 feet. Struggling against the immense force, he managed to physically stop it, his strength on full display.

But before they could react further, another snap echoed through the corridor as the walls opened up, releasing hundreds of needles that shot out toward Nana.

Pegasus, seeing the imminent danger, quickly attempted to dive in front of Nana. She, in turn, went to snap her fingers, holding her wand in her free hand. The blast she produced came out in weakened forms, disrupting only a few of the incoming needles. "Shit, I still can't use my power fully," Nana cursed, her frustration evident.

Just then, Pegasus, with a quick pull on her collar, slid in front of her. "Moon Cycle Slash," he shouted, performing a crescent moon strike. Two needles plunged into his back, but he didn't falter. With precision and speed, he struck all the needles away in quick succession, spinning around to catch the rest of the needles that were propelled toward him.

In the midst of the chaos, Pegasus had been effectively deflecting the needles with precision. However, just as he was about to comment on his injury, saying, "Ouch, looks like I got—," the ceiling abruptly opened up, releasing a dozen more needles in a silent, deadly descent.

Nana, noticing the new danger, acted quickly. Drawing her wand, she summoned a massive bolt of water, a demonstration of her still-recovering powers. With no time to spare, she launched the powerful stream forward at Pegasus.

The force of the water hit him squarely in the chest, sending him flying backward just as the needles plunged harmlessly into the ground where he had been standing moments before.

Pegasus, caught off guard by the sudden impact, rolled across the floor toward Todd, who himself was groaning in pain from his earlier encounter with the boulder. Despite his discomfort, Todd hurried over to help Pegasus to his feet.

The group was momentarily disoriented by the rapid succession of traps and attacks. Breathing heavily and checking for injuries, they realized the true peril of the labyrinth. It wasn't just a maze; it was a deadly gauntlet designed to test the limits of their abilities and endurance.

As Todd helped Pegasus to his feet, he couldn't help but commend his teammate's quick reflexes. "Wow, that was a pretty good move and some quick thinking," he said with a heartfelt laugh, his tone laced with genuine admiration. "Nana might have gotten some more scars if not for you."

Meanwhile, Pegasus, still wincing from the impact, began to remove the needles that had lodged in his back. Each needle extracted elicited a sharp "Ou-Ouch!" from him, indicating the pain he was enduring. Despite the discomfort, Pegasus remained focused, a testament to his resilience.

Todd, noticing the pain Pegasus was in, quickly applied some ointment to the needle wounds, trying to ease the discomfort. His actions showed the camaraderie and concern they all shared for one another in the face of the labyrinth's dangers.

It was then that Nana approached, her brow furrowed with a mix of concern and confusion. "Where did that boulder even come from?!" she asked, looking around as if expecting another surprise attack. Her question highlighted the unpredictable nature of the labyrinth, where threats could emerge from anywhere at any moment.

"Something of that size just silently appearing is strange," Nana mused, reflecting on the bizarre and unexpected nature of the traps they were encountering. She then apologized, a hint of guilt in her voice, "Sorry about stepping on that plate, though. I should have been watching my step better."

Todd, finishing up with the application of burn ointment on Pegasus' back, reassured her, "Don't worry about it, we're all fine right now." His tone was encouraging, aimed at easing her concern. He then proceeded to apply some gauze, carefully wrapping Pegasus' shoulder in white bandages before helping him put his clothes back over the top.

"Just don't strain yourself too much, and these should heal quickly," he advised, showing a blend of practicality and concern for Pegasus' well-being.

The group took a moment to gather themselves, each processing the recent events in their own way. Pegasus tested his mobility gently, nodding in appreciation for Todd's medical attention. Nana, while relieved that they had all managed to escape serious injury, remained alert and wary of further traps.