Chapter 90 Long’s Empire

"Long Kang, the current emperor of the Nine Gods Empire, is devoted to cultivating the path of Supreme Saint. This gives people the impression that he is in seclusion, but in reality, he has been secretly controlling the situation. Crown Prince Long Zhen is his proxy, steady and cautious, and the first in line for succession. He is also known for his respect towards scholars and has an excellent reputation. His attitude towards outsiders is quite low-key and humble, earning him the title of a wise ruler of Nine Gods. He enjoys the support of most high-ranking officials within the Nine Gods government and controls public opinion. Currently, he is acting as regent, and his presence and attitude create an illusion of peace."

"Prince Long Xiang, who leads the military faction, is the son of the former commander-in-chief of the Nine Gods armed forces. Many years ago, he was already one of the outstanding figures among the younger generation of Nine Gods. By the way, he once fought with your headmaster, and it was said that neither side won. Now, he controls the intelligence agencies of the Nine Gods Empire, the most famous being the three organizations: Pu, Ye, and Mi. They constantly infiltrate and carry out assassinations against us. Pu represents dandelions, numerous in number, engaging in assassinations, self-destructs, and destruction, committing all sorts of atrocities."

"Old Wang rubbed his nose, feeling frustrated that his rank was so low. It was disheartening."

"Ye, the secret assassination organization of Nine Gods, targets the elites and heroes of the League of Blades while also dealing with internal traitors. Mi, meaning supreme, is the most threatening. Members of Mi possess exceptional talents, and their sole mission is infiltration and espionage. Once they act, they pose a significant threat to us."

"Prince Long Jing, with his remarkable wisdom, actively courts various regional financial groups and married the granddaughter of the president of the Nine Gods Chamber of Commerce. Although his public profile is not as prominent as that of the Crown Prince and Prince Long Xiang, he effectively controls half of Nine Gods' economic lifeline, holding a pivotal position within the empire. Currently, he seems uninterested in the throne, making him a key figure that both the Crown Prince and Prince Long Xiang seek to ally with. He is extremely dangerous because he continuously uses business tactics to siphon profits from our League of Blades, draining our economy. As you know, war consumes financial reserves."

"The League of Blades may have many people waiting to see the internal strife among them, believing that regardless of the outcome, it will weaken Nine Gods. However, this thinking is fundamentally wrong. Emperor Long Kang has ruled for over forty years, using his iron-fisted rule and unique political acumen to balance the internal disputes of the Nine Gods Empire, unifying all its forces and promoting economic development. He is known as the emperor who revived the empire. As long as he remains in power, such internal strife will not occur. The three princes, despite their power struggles, remain under his control..."

"In summary, Qin Xuan is a pro-war advocate."

"Both the League and the Holy Sanctuary publish newspapers that generally focus on praising the alliance and creating an image of peace and stability, which benefits the economic development of the alliance. Even when mentioning Nine Gods, it is often in the form of amusing anecdotes or ridicule, providing entertainment."

"The sense of security comes from the existence of the sea race. If we could win the holy war back then, we can win now."

"Even Winnie believes this. As for those methods, since everyone knows about them, there's no need to fear."

"Old Wang listened with great interest. After being here for some time, he had gained a certain understanding of the place. Qin Xuan's concerns were not unfounded, and he felt that his old organization had a brighter future."

"If there's an opportunity, it would be wise to leave a way out for himself."

"Old Wang listened with enthusiasm, genuinely interested in everything related to this world, especially parts that were absent in the Imperial Nine Heavens. He could use this knowledge to upgrade upon returning. In contrast, Winnie was almost asleep, drooling slightly, lost in her dreams."

"Just like in class, for top students, the truly interesting part is not the textbook knowledge but the extensions and applications."

"Qin Xuan went through the necessary procedures and finally opened the floor for questions. This elegant woman smiled at the students below: 'Everyone, feel free to ask any relevant questions you find interesting. You can be direct.'"

"Qin Xuan did not come specifically to teach; she was on a mission and accepted Karida's invitation. She had to give her that face, but honestly, the level of the Rose Holy Sanctuary was somewhat low. If not for Lucky Heaven, she wouldn't have come."

"Through the questions asked by the students, she could accurately gauge the potential of this academy to cultivate true elites."

"Luo Lan stood up first, following protocol, as he was the vice-president and a representative of the Rose Martial Dao Courtyard."

"Teacher Qin Xuan, I am Luo Lan from the Rose Martial Dao Courtyard." Luo Lan's eyes sparkled with passion as he respectfully asked: "I would like to ask for your opinion on the border situation. As far as I know, the border regions between the League and Nine Gods, such as Laczang Heights, Sakhshi Plains, and the barren wastelands of the Beastmen, have relatively weak troop deployments. Although the terrain provides some natural defense, these areas have seen the least conflict in recent years. However, if Nine Gods were to launch a surprise attack, mobilizing their forces, these three regions might easily fall, becoming vulnerable points. Has the League or the Temple Headquarters considered increasing troop deployments in these border areas?"

"Qin Xuan smiled gently: 'These border areas are critical to the League. They appear relaxed on the surface but are tightly controlled behind the scenes. Your concerns are unfounded.'"

"Teacher Qin Xuan," the second question came from Su Yue of the Foundry. Unlike Luo Lan, Su Yue's question was more practical and specific: "I deeply resonate with what you said about runes and economics. Nine Gods sells us outdated technology in exchange for large quantities of minerals and resources, while strictly guarding their core technologies, leaving us dependent on them. On the surface, it appears open, but they benefit more. Is there a solution the Holy Sanctuary is considering?"

"It's difficult," Qin Xuan replied, her eyes showing appreciation. "Nine Gods' technology blockade goes beyond just preventing smuggling and talent poaching. It involves many aspects and is a long-term battle. Our warriors are working hard, so you must also strive to improve."

"Su Yue sat down, somewhat disappointed. Old Wang shook his head, feeling that he wasn't one to show off. He wanted to return to Earth intact without sacrificing himself for the greater good. Otherwise, he could have taken on the task of saving the League's technology. He believed he would make a suitable leader of the Holy Sanctuary."

"There were many varied questions, and many people eagerly participated. Qin Xuan answered each one, but her gaze frequently returned to Lucky Heaven, who sat quietly in the front row."

"Karida was indeed not simple, bringing Lucky Heaven into the fold as a precautionary measure. Currently, the Holy Sanctuary is filled with complacency, with many believing the situation is stable, divided into three factions: Nine Gods, the sea race, and the League of Blades."

"But figures like Karida and Qin Xuan, representing their respective factions, are not optimistic. The Eight Tribes are the most important allies of the League of Blades and provide the strongest support. The judgment of their princess on the current situation would largely reflect the view of the Eight Tribes. This is what Qin Xuan hopes to understand."

"Old Wang had noticed early on the way one woman looks at another, something difficult to hide, and Qin Xuan made no effort to conceal it."

"Everyone present was observant, gradually sensing Qin Xuan's focus and interest. Fewer people asked questions, and the small auditorium became quieter. Many looked at Lucky Heaven, who finally stood up."

"Teacher Qin Xuan," Lucky Heaven still wore the mask, even though the other person was a renowned hero from the Temple Headquarters, one of the human leaders, "compared to the internal situation of Nine Gods, isn't the internal situation of our Holy Sanctuary more dangerous, like the Dark Hall..."