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"I can't help but wonder where Zhi Er managed to find such a remarkable individual, someone with a formidable background and exceptional combat skills—a true dragon among men."

"Having such a person as an ally is like giving wings to a tiger for Zhi Er."

Shih Ci remarked, "The Third Prince has always been genuine in his dealings with others. It's no surprise that he's won over such a person."

Ying Qian sighed, "You're right. In this respect, Zhi Er is unmatched—even by his own brother."

"If not for the unrest in the north and the Qin Dynasty's constant provocations against our Ming Dynasty, I would have seriously considered passing the throne to Zhi Er."

Perplexed, Shih Ci inquired, "Your Majesty, the Third Prince is in no way less capable in military strategy or diplomacy than the First Prince. Why not choose him as your successor?"

Ying Qian clarified, "Zhi Er's temperament suits a time of peace, but in an era of chaos, it could be his downfall."

"The First Prince, with his fierce ambition and stubbornness, is better suited for these turbulent times."

"Enough of this. What has Zhi Er been up to lately?"

Shih Ci responded, "Ever since the First Prince's condition, the Third Prince has been strategically undermining his brother's influence."

"Many who recently pledged allegiance to the First Prince are now showing signs of uncertainty."

"Should the current trend continue, by the time the First Prince recovers in six months, their fortunes are likely to have completely reversed."

Ying Qian's gaze was contemplative, and after a long pause, he finally said, "I understand..."

Three days flew by in the blink of an eye.

For Nan Tianlong, these days spent with Lan Wenhao were nothing short of enlightening.

A myriad of architectural marvels, starkly different from those of the Ming Dynasty, sprouted up as if overnight.

Yet, the crowning jewel was the newly completed arena.

Spanning the size of fifty football fields, it could hold over a million spectators for the battles.

The venue boasted an array of luxurious amenities, including opulent cabins and private suites, catering to the diverse preferences of its audience.

Rows of these lavish cabins were meticulously aligned within the arena.

The luxurious cabins were outfitted with virtual helmets showcasing the pinnacle of Blue Star's technological advancements. Each spectator who settled into these cabins was treated to an immersive viewing experience, as if they were right in the midst of the action. Thoughtfully, despite the separation provided by the opulent cabins for an enhanced experience, the helmets were equipped with an interactive bullet comment feature.

The private rooms, on the other hand, were beyond compare, ensuring a regal experience for every attendee within.

Surrounding the battlefield were a host of amenities including cinemas, milk tea shops, bars, and shopping malls, all staffed by the diligent members of the Lan family. Lan Wenhao had spared no effort in preparing for this battle, leading his kin in a tireless three-day sprint to complete the preparations. Their goal was to thoroughly propagate the culture of Blue Star.

The students admitted to the College of Ming Dynasty were either exceptionally gifted or hailed from affluent families. Each one was poised to become a central figure in the future of the Ming Dynasty. Winning their endorsement meant Blue Star culture could firmly establish itself in the Heavenly Desolate Realm.

Throughout this busy period, Nan Tianlong, working closely with Lan Wenhao, had subtly probed for information about their origins, yet he gleaned nothing of substance. Undeterred, Nan Tianlong sought answers from the Lan family members in secret, only to find them as tight-lipped as fortresses, leaving him with the impression that they had materialized from thin air. This only deepened Nan Tianlong's curiosity about their mysterious past.

As the time for the battle drew near, Qin Buyi emerged from his dwelling. Accompanying him were Little Azure, back in her true form, and Great Immortal Huang, who had exerted immense effort to expand his form to a colossal size. Qin Buyi's Divine Consciousness spread across the entire first area, enveloping the jubilant Lan family members who were bringing their best to the tasks assigned by Lan Wenhao.

At the entrance to the first area, Lan Wenhao and Qi Yun, among others, were already there, greeting each teacher and student as they arrived.

"The esteemed Dean Hee Yan of the College of Ming Dynasty has arrived!"

A resounding call echoed from a distance as Hee Yan, accompanied by a group of students, approached. Lan Wenhao promptly greeted him, "Dean Hee Yan, welcome to our midst."

"Haha, Patriarch Lan, you flatter me," Hee Yan responded with a chuckle.

"Patriarch Lan, these past few days have truly been an eye-opener for me. Your renown has spread far and wide across the entire College of Ming Dynasty."

"You give me too much credit, Dean Hee Yan," Lan Wenhao replied modestly.

The ambitious construction in the first area was hard to miss, especially for the other mentors and servants living in the vicinity – they were certainly not blind.

The sight of the new building, brimming with a futuristic vibe, left everyone in awe.

Word of mouth worked its magic, and within three days, news had traveled throughout the entire College of Ming Dynasty.

During this time, Hee Yan had also dropped by for a casual chat with Qin Buyi.

It was a casual visit on the surface, but in truth, Hee Yan was driven by an irrepressible curiosity.

He was looking for an excuse to inspect the building that had stirred up such a buzz within the college.

After seeing it, Hee Yan was thoroughly impressed by the Lan family's remarkable craftsmanship.

He even considered whether to approach Qin Buyi about a collaboration.

He pondered using Spirit Stones to tear down the current Dean's residence and rebuild it into a similarly stunning, technologically-inspired structure.

Hee Yan, leading his students through the entrance, was quickly ushered by the Lan family members towards the battle arena.

The Lan family attended to every detail with meticulous care.

"The Second Dean of the College of Ming Dynasty, Wang Chenghai, has arrived!"

Lan Wenhao, puzzled, turned to Qi Yun and remarked, "Huh? What brings him here?"

The longstanding feud between Wang Chengfeng and Qin Buyi was well known to the Lan family.

Qi Yun gestured helplessly, indicating his ignorance of the situation.

Wang Chengfeng was scheduled for a life-or-death duel with Qin Buyi in six months' time.

Under normal circumstances, Wang Chenghai would not be expected to show any support for Qin Buyi.

Despite the strained relations, Lan Wenhao advanced with a welcoming smile, "Principal Wang Chenghai, we're honored by your presence."

Wang Chenghai managed a slight smile and responded, "You flatter me, Patriarch Lan."

His visit was driven purely by curiosity, as the academy had been abuzz with talk of nothing but Qin Buyi and the construction in District One these past few days.

Upon Wang Chenghai's entry into District One, another announcement echoed:

"The Third Prince of the College of Ming Dynasty, Ying Zhi, has arrived!"

Lan Wenhao and Qi Yun exchanged glances and simultaneously stepped forward, their faces alight with genuine smiles. "Your Highness, welcome."

Ying Zhi returned their gaze, his smile as warm as a spring breeze. "Mr. Wenhao, Brother Qi, you're too kind. My aides have filled my ears with praise for you both to the point of calluses."

"Had my duties not been so demanding, I would have paid you a visit much sooner. It is indeed a great fortune for Ying Zhi to meet you today."

Lan Wenhao and Qi Yun bowed respectfully, "Your Highness, you honor us with your presence. Please, come inside."