Summer, 2026.
Jinling University's old campus.
Dappled tree shadows fell across the weathered stone walls. The cicadas in the parasol tree branches seemed to have sung that same song since ancient times, guarding a trace of scholarly tranquility amid the bustling city.
But this day was rather unusual for the old campus.
Scholars in formal attire walked along the bluestone path outside the gates, while high-nosed foreigners came and went before the old buildings constructed during the Republican era.
Overnight, it seemed as though the place had returned to several decades ago. The antique old school appeared to have crossed through time, restoring the glory of a national university at its peak.
No, to be precise, it was even more dazzling than its most glorious era.
Back then, although foreigners had also come here to lecture, most had held their heads high, swinging their arms and striding in with an air of superiority. Now, regardless of skin color, age, or gender, most people wore humble expressions.
No one was nobler than anyone else.
Before knowledge, everyone was equal.
Nor did anyone feel inferior because of their skin color or culture.
The best in Asia?
Now, that was merely a modest way of putting it.
As if celebrating the aging university's renewal of youth, even the withered vines on the courtyard walls seemed to be sprouting fresh buds.
"Professor Qin."
Hearing someone call to him from beside him, Qin Yue, who had been standing beneath a parasol tree and looking at the old school building, snapped out of his trance.
He gently pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses and glanced at the assistant beside him.
"Is it about to begin?"
The assistant nodded excitedly, his voice full of emotion.
"One hour left! The conference organizing committee just called and asked you to