"These are the ’Steel Federation’s highest enforcement units, independently fighting with the combat power equivalent to a standard Morning Star Wizard, but when forming a hunting team, they pose a lethal threat to a Moon Level Mage."
Cassandra gently stroked the head of one of the synthetic hounds, which immediately crouched down, emitting a hum reminiscent of mechanical operation:
"The Steel Federation originally possessed three thousand of such war machines, now they only follow my orders."
To demonstrate the ability of the synthetic hounds, Cassandra instructed a few to perform a demonstration.
They instantly transformed into different combat forms:
Some stretched their limbs, transforming into multi-legged spider-like forms, moving at speeds so fast that their trajectories were almost invisible;
Some expanded energy wings on their backs, hovering in the air, firing high-energy laser beams from their mouths, easily leaving charred marks on the ground;
The most astonishing was one that actually performed a brief phase shift, its body becoming semi-transparent, directly passing through a solid pillar.
This biological technology combined with magical technology presented new possibilities to the wizards present.
Especially those specializing in bloodline modulation and alchemy, their eyes already beginning to gleam with greed.
"The transformation technology of mechanical lifeforms..."
Ron concentrated on observing the structure of the synthetic hounds, attempting to understand its mysteries:
"This is not simple mechanical alteration, but deep reconstruction at the embryonic development stage.
The growth process of the organism is reprogrammed, allowing flesh and machine to perfectly fuse at the molecular level."
The third demonstration was even more unsettling, involving several "rainbow spirits" trapped in custom crystal containers.
They lacked fixed forms, their bodies composed of pure colorful energy, flowing like living rainbows within the containers.
But even through the thick crystal walls, the wizards present could still feel the intense fear and despair emitted by them.
These spirits constantly changed colors, from bright gold to deep bluish-purple, each color change accompanied by painful emotional fluctuations.
"These are native to the ’Spectrum Realm’, inherently capable of manipulating light and various forms of energy."
Cassandra’s tone was satisfied, as if introducing her collection of precious artworks:
"Each rainbow spirit can provide us with energy output equivalent to a magic power factory. Moreover, they have lifespans calculated in millennia, making them an extremely stable energy source."
To demonstrate the value of the rainbow spirits, she lightly tapped the surface of one container.
The touched spirit immediately began to painfully release energy, the color bursts inside the container becoming fiercely vibrant, instantly doubling the magic concentration in the hall.
This forced energy extraction process was extremely painful, the spirits’ light started to dim, and the color gradually shifted toward a deep red representing pain.
But Cassandra’s expression did not change in the slightest, as if the pain was unrelated to her.
Many onlookers felt obvious discomfort, but more eyes gleamed with greed.
Ron also experienced complex emotional conflict within.
As a rational researcher, he certainly understood the value of such efficient energy sources.
The energy output of rainbow spirits was not only stable but also virtually pollution-free, an ideal condition desired by any research.
"The eternal conflict between morality and practicality..."
He analyzed his emotions internally:
"If these rainbow spirits were voluntarily cooperating, providing energy in exchange for protection and resources, I would have no objection."
Cassandra noticed the wizards’ reactions throughout the hall, a satisfied smile appeared at the corners of her mouth.
Fear, greed, shock, awe... Various emotions flashed alternately on the faces of the crowd, precisely the effect she intended to achieve.