Crux - A vital or decisive point that determines the outcome.

prong - Each of two or more projecting pointed parts at the end of a fork

gully - A water-worn ravine

snob - A person with an exaggerated respect for high social position or wealth who seeks to associate with social superiors and dislikes people or activities regarded as lower-class

shard - A sharp piece of broken glass, metal, or other hard substance

patter - A repeated light tapping

Labyrinth - A complex network of passages or paths, very difficult to figure out and find one's way.

Groove - A long, narrow cut or indentation, typically in a surface, often used for fitting or alignment.

Freckles - Small, dark spots or patches on the skin, often caused by sun exposure.

Mindset - An established set of beliefs or assumptions that influences behavior and decisions.

gig - A single professional engagement, usually of short duration, as of jazz or rock musicians

Aftermath - The lingering effects or impact after something has occurred.