"There are quite a few students at the academy, but they don't really study the Four Books and Five Classics. Instead, they learn literacy and simple introductory texts, with a focus on foreign languages. After all, these children are meant to study abroad in the future." Su Li explained to Quentin Lin.
Quentin Lin made a couple of eager sounds and hugged Su Li's leg, acting cute. "Sis, can I go to the academy too?"
Su Li laughed and said, "What made you suddenly want to go to the academy, Quentin?"
Quentin Lin replied, "Sigh, there's no one to play with at home... Plus, your academy is fun, Sis. They don't make us read those stuffy old books. I want to go!"
"Alright, go tell Mom and Dad first. I'll wait for you here. But let's agree—no mischief when you go!" Su Li said.
Quentin Lin immediately stood at attention, "Yes, Sis! I promise I'll be good and not cause trouble!"
With that, Quentin Lin dashed off, running back to the Lin Residence to tell his parents he wanted to go to Sister Su Li's academy.
Dr. Rowan Lin and Mrs. Wang were delighted to hear it. Since Quentin was set to inherit Dr. Lin's legacy and not pursue official titles, they were happy to let him go to Su Li's academy to find friends and have fun.
With his parents' approval, Quentin was overjoyed. He hurried back to his study, packed his brush, ink, paper, and inkstone into a crossbody cloth bag, and raced off to Prince of Qin's Manor.
Su Li saw Quentin Lin was all set and led him, along with Lingdang, across to the manor opposite.
Just as Su Li was looking at Lingdang with a suspicious face, the children suddenly glanced toward the door and called out, "Mr. Muzi is here! Everyone, quick, back to your seats!"
Su Li turned at the sound and saw a tall, middle-aged man walk in, carrying books and other materials for class.
Mr. Muzi looked to be in his early thirties, sporting a thick beard. When he saw Su Li and Lingdang, his eyes flickered with a moment of panic.
Su Li pressed her lips together, studying Mr. Muzi's face intently before glancing at Lingdang, her eyes gleaming with amusement and curiosity.
Lingdang, noticing Su Li's gaze, grew even more flustered, her blush spreading all the way to her ears.
Mr. Muzi cleared his throat, composed himself, and greeted everyone, "Good morning, Princess Consort Lily. Good morning, students."
The children responded in unison, "Good morning, Mr. Muzi!" Their voices rang out cheerfully, filling the room with energy.
Su Li nodded with a smile, "Mr. Muzi, thank you for your hard work. I'll leave the class to you."
Mr. Muzi bowed slightly, "It's my honor, Princess Consort."
Su Li turned to Lingdang, teasing, "Lingdang, do you want to stay and learn with us today?"
Lingdang shook her head quickly, "No, no, I just came to drop off some snacks. I'll head back now."
The children all called out, "Thank you, Sister Lingdang!"
Lingdang smiled shyly, waved goodbye, and hurried out of the classroom.