She was a simple researcher, focused on the theoretical exploration of Bloodline Studies.
At that time, she had never thought about conquering the Otherworld, never yearned to dominate other civilizations.
But the "seed" deep in her bloodline changed everything.
The impulse for conquest spread like a virus, gradually devouring her original rationality and gentleness.
Now, she could no longer distinguish which thoughts truly belonged to her and which were implanted influences.
"Since none of you want to care..."
She gripped the Star-level Card in her hand, a resolute gleam in her eyes:
"Then I’ll see it through to the end, anyway, there’s no turning back now."
Indeed, whether it was this endless expedition or Eve’s healing plan, there was no option to stop.
Stagnation meant death, only moving forward held a sliver of chance for survival.
As she sank into contemplation, Magic Power within the cabin suddenly fluctuated.
A ribbon of iridescent light unfurled in the air, forming a dazzling mirror surface.
Cassandra immediately grew alert; she was familiar with this energy signature—it’s the consciousness projection of the King of Illusions.
"Senior Panadora?"
She stood up somewhat surprised, and bowed towards the mirror surface.
Although the King of Illusions was not an ancestor of the Crown Clan,
among the Witch King level existences, it was one of the few relatively kind to its juniors.
A blurry female silhouette emerged in the mirror:
"Little Cassandra, you seem troubled."
"Indeed."
Cassandra nodded with a wry smile:
"Whether it’s war or family, there are too many unsolvable issues."
"I heard your conversation with that stubborn old guy."
The King of Illusions’ tone carried a faint dissatisfaction:
"Some elders always like to dodge responsibility under the guise of ’tests’."
The mirror began to ripple, extending a hand composed of iridescent light:
"This is a wisp of ’illusion manifest’ rule power; perhaps it can play a role at a critical moment."
Cassandra cautiously accepted the cluster of light, immediately sensing the terrifying power it contained.
This was a rule fragment capable of turning imagination into reality, with immeasurable value.
"Senior, this is too precious..."
"Precious?"
The King of Illusions chuckled lightly:
"For me, this wisp of power is just the cherry on top. But for you, it might become the Key to change fate."
The voice became gentle:
"Remember, child, sometimes the most important thing is not the choice itself, but the courage when facing the choice."
The mirror began to fade, but before disappearing completely, the King of Illusions left the final words:
"Besides, that young man is more important than you think. Don’t miss the greatest opportunity because of a moment of distress."
After the communication ended, Cassandra carefully sealed away the rule power.
Compared to the indifference of the King of Absurdity, the King of Illusions’ care seemed particularly precious.
This contrast made her even more disappointed in her own ancestors.
"In that case..."
She walked to the safe and took out that item she both loved and hated once again.
It was a jet-black cube.
The surface of the cube had no decorations, but touching it, one could feel the heartbeat coming from inside.
This was the "Otherworld Treasure Box."
Legend has it, this item was left behind by the "End of Death."
This seemingly ordinary box changed her life.
After accidentally opening the box years ago, she obtained dozens of "Authority Cards" of varying levels.
Each card represented a specific power and responsibility, completing its requirements would result in an equivalent enhancement in ability.
From iron, copper, silver, gold, to Star-level, the cards would diminish in sequence.
The "Star" level card was the highest level among them.
However, in gaining power, she was also influenced by the "will" of the cards.
Her originally gentle character gradually twisted, the desire for conquest became uncontrollable.
She was like a prisoner transformed by power, aware of the dangers of this path yet unable to stop.
"Ron..."
Cassandra gently caressed the surface of the treasure box, a complex smile on her lips.
She had confirmed through various divinations that this young wizard was the key variable to changing everything.
And according to her plan, if Eve’s treatment succeeded, Ron would inevitably be guided to contact the Crown Clan’s treasury.
By then, he would also face the same choice.
Whether or not to open this tempting "Otherworld Treasure Box."
"I’m very curious..."
Her eyes shimmered with anticipation:
"What choice will you make? Will you, like me, be devoured by power, or will you be able to keep your original heart?"
This expectation was mixed with malice and curiosity.
If Ron was also transformed by the cards, she would no longer be alone;
If he could resist temptation, there might really be a possibility to change everything.
No matter the outcome, it would be far more interesting than the current predicament.
Cassandra put the treasure box away again, the fatigue in her eyes replaced by a certain anticipation.
At least, in this dull game of chess, she found a new amusement.