Traveling back to ancient times to get rich

Chapter 282 That Child Lin'er

After the Eldest Princess said that, everyone agreed that Prince Lin's absence was understandable. Despite being only two years old, he seemed as melancholy as a little old man. It was understandable, though, as he wasn't a member of the royal family. He had a younger sister of the same age, who was the true royal heir. However, the Emperor hadn't bestowed any official title upon her, only ensuring she was provided for. Everyone felt sorry for the child, realizing how difficult his situation was at such a young age. He had to shoulder the burden of his family, a family consisting only of his mother and sister. Fortunately, the Eldest Princess, the Regent, and the Princess Consort were there to help them; otherwise, the two-year-old truly wouldn't know how to cope.

“This Prince Lin’s background is truly pitiful.” Grand Tutor Wu stroked his beard, gently shaking his head, his eyes filled with pity. “At such a young age, he has to bear the pressure brought by such a complicated background. It’s no wonder this child has to endure this!” The Princess sighed softly, her eyes filled with tenderness: “Looking at him, I feel nothing but pity. The royal rules and complicated relationships are putting too much pressure on this child.” Everyone chimed in, their sympathy for Prince Lin evident in their words.

Gu Mochen frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and then said, "Since we all feel sorry for him, why don't we think of a way to help this child out of his gloom?" Everyone nodded in agreement. Ye Qingchen continued, "I've heard that although Prince Lin is only two years old, he is quite interested in music and poetry, but the Prince's residence lacks a suitable tutor." Grand Tutor Wu's eyes lit up, and he volunteered, "This old man is not talented, but I am willing to frequently visit the Prince's residence to enlighten him, teach him to read and write, and to appreciate the ways of the sages." Everyone praised this plan as excellent.

After a moment's thought, the eldest princess said, "Besides his studies, this child should also have some fun. I plan to find some children of similar age to visit him at the Prince's residence often, so he can experience the pure friendship among children." The eldest brother of the Wu family immediately responded, "My little ones are lively and active all day long; they will surely bring joy to the Prince." With the matter settled, everyone began their preparations.

A few days later, Grand Tutor Wu, carrying carefully selected primers, entered the Prince Lin's residence. The atmosphere within was oppressive, quiet to the point of being stifling. The steward led Grand Tutor Wu to the study, where the Prince Lin sat by the window, gazing blankly out the window, his small figure appearing exceptionally lonely. Hearing the sound, he turned his head, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes, but quickly regained his composure, rising to greet Grand Tutor Wu. His voice was youthful yet carried a maturity beyond his years.

Grand Tutor Wu, his face full of kindness, stepped forward and gently placed the books on the table, saying softly, "Your Highness, I've heard you enjoy reading, so I brought some interesting books with me. Let's take a look together." Prince Lin's gaze fell on the books, a fleeting, almost imperceptible joy flashing in his eyes, but he quickly suppressed it, saying softly, "Thank you, Grand Tutor." Grand Tutor Wu pulled Prince Lin to sit down, opened the book, and began explaining the meaning of each word, starting with the simplest characters. Prince Lin listened intently, occasionally asking questions, his eyes gradually brightening.

At the same time, the eldest princess meticulously planned and arranged for several children of similar age to visit the Prince's residence. Among these children were her own children, personally led by the eldest brother of the Wu family. As soon as these innocent and energetic children stepped through the gates of the Prince's residence, they immediately began chattering incessantly like a flock of joyful birds, their noise instantly shattering the usual tranquility of the residence.

At this moment, Prince Lin stood quietly to the side, watching the lively scene before him, momentarily at a loss for words. His clear eyes revealed a mixture of unfamiliarity and undisguised curiosity. The youngest son of the Wu family, always lively and energetic, quickly ran to Prince Lin, a bright smile spreading across his face. He handed Prince Lin a delicate and adorable rattle drum, saying, "Brother Prince, this is for you to play with!" Prince Lin hesitated for a moment, but finally slowly reached out and carefully took the rattle drum. He then gently shook it, and as a clear, melodious sound rang out, the corners of his previously tense lips gradually turned up slightly, a faint smile appearing on his handsome face.

However, this young prince also had a younger sister, the real princess. She was a truly lively and cheerful girl! Having been raised and carefully cared for by her biological mother, she had always been carefree and unrestrained. Seeing so many friends come to play at the manor, she was naturally overjoyed! On the other hand, Prince Lin himself had been raised by Consort Ye since childhood. Consort Ye had always been strict with him, constantly urging him to strive to become outstanding and learn various skills to please the Emperor and the Crown Prince.

Just as he was lost in thought, five children broke his reverie. These were Ye Qingchen's five children. Today, these five children had also come to play with him. These five children were of the same generation as him, but they were the Regent's children. Everyone knew that if it weren't for the Regent's constant refusal, the throne would have belonged to him, while his father, the Crown Prince, desperately wanted that position but could never reach it. He also knew that his mother had almost caused his biological mother's death in her attempt to take him as her son. However, his biological mother hadn't vented her resentment on his sister, who had separated them.

These five younger siblings were absolutely gorgeous, like sculptures of jade! Each one had delicate features, bright eyes, and rosy lips and white teeth, making them instantly lovable. They chirped and chattered around him like a flock of cheerful little birds. He, who wasn't very tall to begin with, looked even shorter surrounded by these five little ones. But far from being incongruous, the scene exuded a unique warmth and cuteness.

The five babies blinked their bright, sparkling eyes, staring intently at him, their gazes filled with curiosity and anticipation. Then, each baby carefully took out a small, carefully prepared gift from behind their back. These gifts, though not expensive, were filled with the children's purest and most innocent sentiments.

Just then, a radiant smile bloomed on Lin'er's face. He knew perfectly well that these five adorable younger siblings genuinely wanted to play with him. So, he happily reached out his hand, ready to accept the loving little gifts…

Standing at a distance, Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen thought, "Not bad, there's still hope for this child to be happy."