Vivian grew anxious and quickly pointed at the flying sword. In mid-air, the sword emitted a clear, resonant hum, and its blade radiance expanded dramatically. The mist surrounding the sword was instantly obliterated. The freed purple-green sword let out a sharp cry and streaked through the air, heading straight for Charlotte.
Charlotte remained calm, merely plucking a string on her instrument with her right hand. A sound like metal striking metal erupted, and a crescent-shaped energy blade formed in the air, roaring towards the purple-green sword. A deafening clash resounded, making Leo and the others’ ears ring as if struck by thunder. The energy blade dissipated into the air, and the purple-green sword, its radiance dimmed, retreated with a whimper.
Vivian quickly retrieved her sword, her eyes red with distress, clearly cherishing it deeply. Charlotte did not press the attack but instead stopped and apologized, “I’m sorry for damaging your sword.”
“It’s okay,” Vivian replied dejectedly, shaking her head as she stored the sword back in its sheath to nourish it with her energy. She glanced helplessly at the others. Charlotte’s unexpected strength gave Maximilian and his companions a sense of her profound abilities.
After exchanging glances, Knox signaled that he would take over, and Maximilian and Leo agreed. Knox stepped forward with a slight smile, “Miss, you are truly skilled. Allow me to learn a few moves from you.”
Charlotte nodded gracefully, her delicate hands resting on her instrument like a living portrait of an ancient lady. Knox took a deep breath, clenched his fists, and his eyes shone as he unleashed his signature move: “Thunderous Might!”
Several massive spiraling arcs of electricity shot out in a line, their power reminiscent of laser cannons from a sci-fi warship. Charlotte’s gaze remained gentle as she lightly plucked a string. Another sharp metallic sound rang out, and a crescent-shaped energy blade formed again, slicing through the spiraling arcs.
A thunderous explosion erupted in the center of the pool, sending rocks tumbling and water splashing everywhere. Moments later, the scene calmed down. Leo and the others surveyed the battlefield. Knox and Charlotte were both unharmed; their first clash ended in a draw.
Knox grew agitated, knowing that the longer they delayed, the worse it would be for them. Moreover, as a man, failing to subdue a seemingly delicate woman would be humiliating. Determined, Knox gritted his teeth and said coldly, “Miss, I ask you once more to step aside! Otherwise, don’t blame me for being ruthless.”
Charlotte shook her head silently, “I’m sorry, I can’t do that.”
“Thunderous Wrath!” Knox shouted as clouds formed at the cave’s ceiling. Within them, winds howled and lightning flashed, creating an imposing atmosphere like a god of thunder ready to unleash divine punishment.
On the small island, Charlotte’s expression finally changed slightly. Her hands tensed on her instrument as she sensed the impending danger. “Come forth, shattering thunder!”
With a roar, bolts of lightning as thick as columns and fierce as serpents struck down from the clouds. Charlotte exclaimed, “Impressive technique! Symphony of Silence!”
Her delicate fingers danced over the strings, producing urgent metallic sounds. Above her island, an energy shield formed, its aura flowing like thunder and as strong as walls of steel.
The first bolt of lightning struck the shield with a loud bang, sending waves of energy rippling across the water. Then came the second bolt, then the third…
Finally, after thirty-six bolts had struck, the pool was a chaotic mess of splashing water and flying rocks. Leo and Maximilian struggled to stand against the raging aura.
The cave soon returned to calm. The pool was now muddy and surrounded by debris. Everyone looked expectantly at the battlefield but quickly grew disappointed.
By the pool’s edge stood Knox, pale and panting from exertion. On the island sat Charlotte, still playing her instrument with an air of calm elegance. Even the incense beside her continued to burn gently.
If anything had changed about Charlotte, it was only that she looked slightly paler but even more aloof. Maximilian’s eyes flashed with anger.
Leo knew it was his turn to act. He patted Maximilian’s shoulder and said, “Mr. Ramsey, let me handle this. Save your strength for dealing with the cult leader.”
Maximilian took a deep breath and nodded reluctantly. Leo stepped forward confidently.
Knox saw Leo approaching and smiled bitterly. As a top operative of WONDER, he had failed to defeat a seemingly frail woman who remained so composed throughout.
Leo reassured Knox, “Take a rest; I’ll handle this.”
Knox nodded and gritted his teeth, “You must win!” He then retreated without looking back.
Leo looked at Charlotte’s elegant figure in the pool and said calmly, “Miss, there’s still time to turn back.”
Charlotte’s playing faltered slightly as she trembled but continued playing “Lost Melody” with determination.
Leo’s expression turned cold, “Stubbornness! Forgive me then.” He raised his right hand and cast a spell.
In mid-air, shimmering lights appeared like blades descending upon Charlotte with a sharp whistling sound.
“Symphony of Silence,” Charlotte called out again as her music shifted to a more aggressive tone. An energy shield formed around her once more.
The shimmering lights struck the shield repeatedly with crisp sounds like breaking glass bottles. Despite intense vibrations, the shield held firm.
Leo smiled faintly; this was just a probing move. He gathered his Spiritual Power and punched towards the ground.