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Naturally, Inglis is currently free from the burden of gravity manipulation. Dragon Sorcery, which combines magic and dragon roar, precludes the use of gravity manipulation while in effect.

Therefore, this Gravity Field is certainly affecting Inglis’ movements.

“Oh…! This is nice…!”

The shockwave that just sent Inglis flying and this gravity manipulation feel like completely different sources of power. Eris and Ripple also wield specialized powers, each akin to advanced versions of unique Gifts.

This Hyrule Menace is clearly controlling two distinct sets of power. Inglis can’t help but notice the difference. Moreover, before rushing here, she saw a distant light erupting, suggesting there may be even more powers available to her opponent.

And there may still be unseen abilities—

“Tailwind!”

A vigorously swirling airflow envelops her opponent’s body. It adjusts its direction and orientation in sync with her movements, accelerating the thrust of the halberd.

As stated by the Hyrule Menace herself, it was indeed a tailwind.

Inglis’ body felt heavy, while her opponent’s movements became swift. In other words, the tide turned unfavorably in an instant during the battle.

Inglis deftly parried the descending halberd head, but the Dragon Ice Sword shattered with a resounding noise under the strain.

“Hahaha…! Marvelous!”

In a direct clash, the Dragon Ice Sword was clearly at a disadvantage. But rather than regret, Inglis felt exhilaration. A strong opponent is always a welcome challenge.

“You think this is something to laugh about…?!”

With a cold, sharp expression, the Hyrule Menace thrust the spearhead toward Inglis’ forehead.

“Now, what will you do…!? Haaaah!”

Ether Armor!

Enveloped by the pale glow of Ether Armor, Inglis casually caught the thrusting spearhead of the halberd with one hand.

“What…!? Ugh…!?”

As her opponent’s expression shifted in shock, Inglis had already moved to the next step. Releasing the spearhead, she stepped into her opponent’s guard, twisting her body and positioning herself to deliver a powerful knee strike.

The impact of metal striking metal created a reverberating sound.

Inglis’ knee strike collided with the shaft of the halberd.

“Ugh…!?”

The Hyrule Menace was forced back under Inglis’ force, compelled to retreat. Her armored feet scraped against the cobblestones, leaving deep furrows in their wake.

“As expected…! You give off a different vibe—you’re special even among the Hyrule Menaces, aren’t you?”

This knee strike in this situation—Cystia of the Ironblood Chain Brigade couldn’t react in time and took it directly, forced to kneel. However, here, despite being pressured, this Hyrule Menace reacted and countered, displaying a clear and distinct level of prowess.

Inglis had thought that all Hyrule Menaces were evenly matched in ability, but it seems that’s not the case. This one is clearly a cut above the rest.

While it’s uncertain where the limits lie from here, the true strength of a Hyrule Menace is in their weaponry. Depending on the wielder, they might even demonstrate power comparable to Jeldegrīva, the Duke of War.

Since her recent victory over a Prisma, Inglis had been somewhat concerned about finding a worthy opponent, but it seems those worries were unfounded. The world still teems with formidable adversaries.

And yet, there’s something unsettling about this situation.

She claims there won’t be a war between the two major Highlander factions, but everyone says that before a conflict starts. While she doesn’t desire it, sometimes fighting is necessary. This battle, justified as self-defense, could easily set the stage for a war.

In short, there’s a lot to anticipate. The thrill of the unknown is exhilarating, isn’t it?

“…I am not a Hyrule Menace!”
“Huh? You’re not?”

Despite her denial, her aura and strength clearly identify her as a Hyrule Menace.

“The term ‘Hyrule Menace’ refers to inferior products discarded on the surface…! I am different…! I’m an Archlord who protects His Eminence the Founder!”
“Archlord…? Like Lord Abel…”

Hearing the title of ‘Archlord,’ Inglis couldn’t help but think of Lord Abel, who transformed Dragon God Vufailbane into the Mecha Dragon God and departed for the Highland.

There were no individuals with the title of ‘Archlord’ among the Three Archdukes’ Party, indicating it signifies a position within the Church Founder’s Union faction. Clearly, it denotes a highly ranked figure.

Those with exceptionally high aptitude for Hyrule Menace transformation and outstanding abilities might remain in the Highland rather than being sent to the surface.

From her tone, she seems to be directly under the Founder. Pride in this position likely fosters a sense of superiority over the Hyrule Menaces bestowed upon the Midland.

Either way, Eris and the others might not take kindly to hearing this.

“…So you’re not just a Hyrule Menace after all. Your power certainly surpasses that of Miss Eris and the others… If it’s not too forward of me to ask, may I have your name? My apologies for the delay; I am Inglis Eux, a student of the Knight Academy, here on official business.”

Inglis bowed politely.

“…Charlotte. Archlord―Charlotte.”

The response was curt, but the name bore a striking resemblance to Liselotte’s.

“Eeeeehhhhhh!? No way…!?”

Upon hearing the name, Liselotte let out a loud exclamation of genuine surprise.

“Liselotte…!?”
“What’s wrong…!?”
“Charlotte…?! Charlotte is my mother’s name!”
“Eeeeehhhh!? Your mother!?”

Certainly, the resemblance between the two was too strong to be mere coincidence, though their ages didn’t seem far enough apart to be mother and daughter—more like sisters at most.

However, Hyrule Menaces do not age from the time of their transformation. If there were any aging, it would be extremely gradual, if at all.