My Wife Is The Female Lead In A Scum Alpha Novel - Chapter 16

16

“Let’s deduct the hundred taels from my future monthly allowance and shop dividends. I’ll write an IOU and pay you interest. From now until the exam results come out, it’s less than two months, so we’ll calculate two months’ interest.” Gu Qingci said, adding conditions out of fear that Ruan Zhi wouldn’t agree to lend her the money.

Ruan Zhi found Gu Qingci increasingly hard to understand.

Previously, she seemed to care so much about money, yet now she wanted to give away a hundred taels to someone else.

Thinking of Xia Lingyan, Ruan Zhi had no desire to place any bets.

However, the hundred taels were entirely Gu Qingci’s own money. Moreover, it would serve as another record of Gu Qingci’s “shameful deeds” Having a written agreement would be just as well.

“Fine, write the IOU.” Ruan Zhi said, not wanting to argue further with Gu Qingci, and nodded in agreement.

“Madam, what’s the reputation of that gambling den? If I bet a hundred taels, can I really get ten thousand taels back? Will they refuse to pay? Do they not consider martial arts scholars as real scholars?” Gu Qingci cheerfully headed outside but turned back at the door, suddenly worried as she asked Ruan Zhi.

“…” Ruan Zhi was speechless.

Judging by Gu Qingci’s tone and expression, it was as if she had already passed the exam and was only concerned about whether she could collect the money.

Ruan Zhi had never met someone so “unfathomable” before.

Nor had she ever encountered someone so inexplicably confident.

“Martial arts scholars are still scholars. There’s no need to worry about credibility. If you really win, I’ll go collect the money for you.” Ruan Zhi said.

If by some miracle Gu Qingci did win, Xia Lingyan’s expression would surely be priceless…

But no, there was no point imagining it. It was impossible.

“Thank you, Madam. If their reputation is good, can I bet more?” Hearing Ruan Zhi’s reassurance, Gu Qingci felt relieved and couldn’t help but get a little greedy.

“A hundred taels is enough. Any more, and not only will we not have that much money, but they might also want to kill you. Do you think gambling den owners are pushovers?” Ruan Zhi shot Gu Qingci a sidelong glance.

Even daydreaming should have its limits, shouldn’t it?

“…Ah, right. I’ll listen to you, Madam! Just a hundred taels then.” Gu Qingci nodded. Compared to money, her life was more important.

Gu Qingci went to the outer room, took a brush, and wrote the IOU at the desk.

Having only practiced calligraphy for two days, her handwriting was still childish and awkward, but at least each stroke was clear and neat.

After writing it and stamping it with her personal seal, Gu Qingci brought it to Ruan Zhi.

“The gambling den is no place for you. I’ll send someone to place the bet and show you the receipt later.” Ruan Zhi said, glancing at the carefully written IOU before putting it away.

If one were to judge a person by their handwriting, Gu Qingci’s current script—with its open strokes, free of hidden sharpness—looked rather innocent and straightforward.

“Alright, I’ll trouble you with that, Madam! I’ll go back outside to practice!” Gu Qingci said, trusting Ruan Zhi completely.

The future business tycoon, someone who could dominate the ancient commercial world and become the wealthiest, possessed another admirable trait: she kept her word and valued integrity above all else.

Gu Qingci went back outside to continue lifting stone locks.

She wasn’t lifting weights blindly. In her world, there were several classic exercises for building strength—deadlifts, weighted squats, and the like—that developed both aesthetically pleasing and powerful muscles.

Gu Qingci had always loved sports, and now that she knew this training could help her pass the martial arts scholar exam, she was even more motivated.

From the window of Ruan Zhi’s room, one could see Gu Qingci’s direction.

Watching Gu Qingci perform those strange movements, Ruan Zhi pressed her fingers to her forehead for a long while, pushing aside the distracting thoughts Gu Qingci provoked. She then called for Lian Rui to close the window and summoned Madam Zhao to discuss matters.

Lian Rong, seeing Gu Qingci exercising, wanted to approach her, but Nanny Qin intercepted her and assigned her other tasks.

With Madam Zhao around, Nanny Qin had more free time and could help Ruan Zhi keep an eye on the maids in the courtyard.

It wasn’t until dinner time that Gu Qingci was called in to eat, finally stopping her training.

The intense workout had burned a lot of energy, and Gu Qingci ate voraciously. When the food on the table wasn’t enough, Nanny Qin made her an extra bowl of chicken noodles.

“Madam, starting tomorrow, I won’t be going to the academy. I’ll focus on preparing for the exam. Can I train at your father’s horse farm? And maybe have your brother’s martial arts teacher teach me how to wield a broadsword?” After dinner, Gu Qingci went to Ruan Zhi’s study to ask.

“…” Ruan Zhi looked at Gu Qingci, who seemed serious.

Logically, visiting her father-in-law’s home required Ruan Zhi, as the daughter, to accompany her.

Ruan Zhi had wanted to live with her parents, but fearing they’d face criticism and still not fully understanding Gu Qingci, she had stayed at the Gu residence.

If Gu Qingci was preparing for the martial arts scholar exam, the Gu family’s limited space would indeed be inconvenient—there was no place for horseback riding or archery.

But that didn’t necessarily mean she had to train at the Ruan family’s estate.

The old Gu Qingci had wanted to rely on the Ruan family’s wealth while maintaining a disdainful distance, as if afraid of being associated with their merchant status. She had treated the Ruan family as strangers, if not worse.

“Why not go directly to the martial arts school? There are instructors there.” Ruan Zhi asked coolly.

“Madam, how could someone as smart as you not realize? If I go to the martial arts school, everyone will know my skill level, and the odds will change. Training at your father’s place is best—we’re all family.” Gu Qingci said earnestly.

“…” Ruan Zhi fell silent. Was Gu Qingci truly treating her family as her own now?

Her confidence almost made Ruan Zhi wonder if Gu Qingci really had the skills.

“Madam, can I? I’ll play with your brother and supervise his studies. I won’t disturb your parents.” Gu Qingci softened her voice.

“…Fine.” Ruan Zhi paused, then nodded.

This way, Ruan Zhi could see her parents daily while escorting Gu Qingci to and from training.

With her training location settled, Gu Qingci happily went to practice calligraphy.

She didn’t dislike calligraphy.

She couldn’t afford to be illiterate in this era, after all.

At the very least, she needed to recognize and write traditional characters, converting simplified ones she knew.

The written exam also required legible handwriting.

After practicing for a while, Madam Zhao entered with a tea set and several white porcelain jars.

Ruan Zhi, who had been writing letters, looked up and told her to set them down.

“Wife, I’ve prepared some tea using the roasting method you mentioned. Would you like to try it?” Ruan Zhi called out to Gu Qingci.

There were tea gardens nearby, and after several experiments, what was brought here were the relatively successful batches.

“Of course!” Gu Qingci looked up at the items on Ruan Zhi’s desk, immediately put down her brush, and stood up excitedly.

“These are teas roasted using different methods. You can taste them one by one.” Ruan Zhi said.

Gu Qingci opened one of the jars first, and the aroma of tea wafted out.

She brewed a cup for herself and Ruan Zhi.

After taking a sip, she finally felt a hint of the tea from her past life.

“Madam, this one still has a slight grassy taste. The kill-green step wasn’t long enough.”

“The tea flavor is a bit thin—probably wasn’t rolled enough.”

Gu Qingci offered critiques based on her memories.

After rinsing her mouth with water, she sampled the remaining jars and shared her thoughts while Madam Zhao took notes.

“Madam, tea leaves can also be shaped in different ways—pearl-shaped, spherical, or needle-like. You can shape them during rolling to make them more visually appealing.”

“Tea can be categorized by the color of its liquor. What we’re drinking now is all green tea. You could give them elegant names to appeal to scholars.”

“We can grade the tea leaves, selling premium ones to the wealthy and affordable options to commoners.”

Gu Qingci shared everything she knew about tea with Ruan Zhi.

Ruan Zhi listened attentively, her gaze toward Gu Qingci shifting slightly.

She had drunk several cups of the clear tea with Gu Qingci. The taste was indeed better than before, and it was more convenient—just pour hot water, and the flavor emerged.

It seemed the roasting method was viable.

Xia Lingyan had rushed to oppose Ruan Zhi, undercutting prices and collaborating with official shops.

But if this tea could be consistently produced in large quantities, it would be one-of-a-kind.

Ruan Zhi already had a plan in mind.

After tea, Gu Qingci returned to practicing calligraphy.

That night, she slept soundly, unaffected by the tea.

Ruan Zhi, however, wasn’t so fortunate.

She already suffered from insomnia.

The tea only made her stay awake even later.

The next morning, when Gu Qingci woke up, Ruan Zhi was still asleep, so she went out to exercise first.

When Ruan Zhi awoke, they ate breakfast together before riding the carriage to the Ruan family home.

Early in the morning, Qin Ruofang heard that her daughter and her wife had arrived and was startled, fearing something had happened.

She and Ruan Maolin hurried to the main hall to greet them.

After paying respects to her in-laws, Gu Qingci explained the purpose of her visit.

Qin Ruofang and Ruan Maolin’s expressions shifted dramatically, unable to conceal their surprise.

“Father, Mother, could you ask Jinyu’s martial arts teacher to instruct her? She’ll stay for lunch, and I’ll pick her up in the afternoon.” Ruan Zhi said to her parents.

Qin Ruofang didn’t press further and let Ruan Maolin take Gu Qingci to the horse farm while she stayed behind to speak with Ruan Zhi.

“Madam, if you’re not taking the carriage, how will you go out?” Knowing Ruan Zhi would leave during the day, Gu Qingci asked before departing.

“I’ll take a sedan chair. Outside the city, I can switch to an oxcart.” Ruan Zhi replied.

“Can you use my identity token to take a carriage? If anyone checks, just show it to them. Would that work?” Gu Qingci took out her identity token—engraved with her name, physical characteristics, and origin—from her waist. In this era, it served as an ID. As a scholar, hers was made of bronze, while commoners typically used wood or bamboo.

“…” Ruan Zhi froze at the sight of the token.

To some extent, this token represented a person’s identity. Some who lost theirs were deemed stateless vagrants, while others had their tokens stolen and misused, leading to false accusations with no way to prove their innocence.

Such items were rarely lent out unless to someone deeply trusted.

“It’s fine. If unrelated parties are caught, they’ll be punished, but since you’re Ah Zhi’s wife, it’s permissible.” Qin Ruofang said when Ruan Zhi didn’t respond, accepting the token on her behalf.

“Thank you, Wife.” Ruan Zhi added.

“Be careful on the road, Madam. Don’t overexert yourself. I’ll train hard. See you this afternoon.” Gu Qingci smiled.

Handing over her identity token didn’t faze her. Providing her boss with convenient transportation to work more efficiently and earn more money was the least she could do as a mere employee.

Gu Qingci left with Ruan Maolin, while Qin Ruofang pulled Ruan Zhi aside to talk.

“She seems even better to you than last time, even willing to lend you her identity token. But what’s this about taking the martial arts scholar exam? Studying is hard, but martial arts is even harder.” Qin Ruofang asked.

“Mother, don’t mind her. Let her do as she pleases. She wouldn’t have passed the literary exam anyway, so failing the martial one is expected.” Ruan Zhi said, her tone softening imperceptibly when speaking of Gu Qingci.

“…You have no expectations of her. An omega’s honor comes from her alpha. If she’s useless and becomes a laughingstock, you’ll lose face outside.” Qin Ruofang fretted over Ruan Zhi’s future.

“Mother, there’s no rush. Right now, practicing horseback riding and archery is better than gambling or visiting brothels.” Ruan Zhi consoled her.

“…That’s true. Fine, let her train here for a few days and see how long she lasts.” Qin Ruofang relented helplessly.

“Mother, did you discuss with Father what I mentioned earlier about avoiding business trips south?” Ruan Zhi asked.

In her past life, Ruan Maolin had died during a business trip south, and the family had suffered heavy losses. Overwhelmed by grief and exhaustion, Qin Ruofang had also passed away soon after.

“I did. He knows, but I can tell he’s still reluctant. Silk from the south is cheaper and better than here, and some specialties can fetch high prices since we don’t have them locally.” Qin Ruofang said.

“Mother, talk to him again. Recently, I had a bad dream—Father had an accident on his trip south. Perhaps it was a warning from our ancestors.” Ruan Zhi pressed.

At this, Qin Ruofang’s expression turned grave, taking it more seriously.

“Mother, I’ve been planning a business venture and need Father’s help. Please pass this along…” Ruan Zhi continued.

If Ruan Maolin wanted to earn more, Ruan Zhi would involve him in her plans to keep him too busy for risky trips.

After speaking briefly, Ruan Zhi left the Ruan residence and took the carriage to attend to her affairs.

Meanwhile, Gu Qingci and Ruan Maolin arrived at the family’s horse farm.

Ruan Maolin summoned Ruan Jinyu and his martial arts teacher to accompany Gu Qingci.

Having played together before, Ruan Jinyu was delighted to see Gu Qingci again.

Gu Qingci’s weakest areas were broadsword techniques, which the martial arts teacher, though not a master, could still demonstrate.

Gu Qingci asked for guidance, and she and Ruan Jinyu learned together.

Sun Pengdun had mentioned moves like “Snow Covers the Summit” and “Front and Back Blade Flourishes” which Gu Qingci knew nothing about.

In the apocalypse, she rarely used melee weapons, especially cold steel like broadswords. Starting from scratch, she had to learn the basic stances, opening and closing movements, and more.

The martial arts teacher meticulously corrected her movements.

Ruan Jinyu, with some prior exposure, was slightly better than Gu Qingci.

Ruan Maolin watched for a while and shook his head inwardly.

Starting from zero to take the martial arts scholar exam? Who did that? It was utterly absurd!

He hoped word wouldn’t spread.

Otherwise, he’d face ridicule whenever he stepped outside.

But since Gu Qingci wasn’t his daughter, he couldn’t say much. He could only let her be.

Gu Qingci’s return and use of their horse farm, coupled with her beginner-level training, made Ruan Maolin suspicious of her motives.

Was this just an excuse to claim their estate?

She had already taken the lotus pond manor.

Was that not enough?

Ruan Maolin sighed inwardly.

Giving Ruan Zhi her identity token—was this a ploy to demand even more?

He didn’t linger and left Ruan Jinyu to entertain Gu Qingci while he returned to Qin Ruofang.

“Ah Zhi says they’re doing fine. You’re overthinking it.” Qin Ruofang told Ruan Maolin.

“Ah Zhi may be more knowledgeable than most wives, but she’s no match for those worldly alphas. Don’t let sweet words fool you—many are two-faced, with honeyed words and wicked hearts. Have you forgotten how the Jian’an Marquis acted before, looking down on everyone? Remind Ah Zhi to be careful.” Ruan Maolin remained uneasy.

“Alright, I will. Ah Zhi told me she had a nightmare… You can’t ignore this. Don’t even think about sailing south. She has some tasks for you…” Qin Ruofang relayed Ruan Zhi’s messages.

Meanwhile, after practicing broadsword techniques, Gu Qingci joined Ruan Jinyu for his literary lessons once the sun grew too hot.

The Ruan family owned the military classics Gu Qingci needed. She studied them while occasionally asking the tutor about unfamiliar characters or passages.

Lunch at the Ruan residence was the finest hospitality, leaving Gu Qingci thoroughly satisfied.

In the afternoon, she practiced calligraphy during the heat and horseback riding when it cooled.

Life was truly wonderful.

The Ruan family also had bows and arrows. Gu Qingci tried them out.

Ancient bows differed from modern ones in material, feel, and draw weight, requiring adjustment.

Even the archery posture here differed from what Gu Qingci was used to—a whole new style and culture.

Once again, the martial arts teacher had to instruct her from scratch.

Gu Qingci’s habitual movements were corrected as she adapted to the new bow.

When Ruan Zhi returned in the afternoon, Ruan Maolin met with her privately.

“I watched her today. Her broadsword and archery skills are at a beginner’s level—she doesn’t even know the stances. The only passable thing is her strength. She’d be better off studying at the academy, practicing calligraphy. At least she wouldn’t be a laughingstock during the exam.” Ruan Maolin said.

“…” Ruan Zhi knew Gu Qingci’s basics were weak but hadn’t realized they were nonexistent.

“Father, I can’t dissuade her. Let her learn the hard way. I’ve asked Mother to discuss countering the Xia family with you. What do you think?” Ruan Zhi changed the subject.

“That old Xia bastard has been gloating ever since you presented as an omega and his daughter as an alpha. If you’d been an alpha, you’d have outshone her a hundred times over! I’m all for thwarting the Xia family. I’ve already sent people to buy up raw materials. If the Xia family wants them, they’ll have to pay a premium. The official shops have bulk orders to fulfill—if they can’t deliver, they’ll face lawsuits.” Ruan Maolin said heatedly.

Having been rivals for so long, even basic courtesy between them had eroded.

Especially after Ruan Zhi married Gu Qingci, the Xia family had never missed a chance to mock him—though Ruan Maolin spared Ruan Zhi these details.

She had enough to worry about.

Today, Ruan Maolin had hoped Gu Qingci’s martial arts scholar exam would stay under wraps. But upon leaving to meet with shop managers, he ran into Xia Lingyan’s father and was ridiculed.

It seemed everyone knew, spreading like wildfire.

Ruan Maolin didn’t expect Gu Qingci to bring glory—just to avoid becoming a joke.

Seeing his enthusiasm, Ruan Zhi felt somewhat relieved.

“What about the tea plantation?” she asked.

“It’s just a matter of leasing more land. I’ve already sent people. Fucheng is gathering tea varieties from other regions. When he returns in a few days, I’ll have someone notify you.” Ruan Maolin said, supportive of his daughter’s ventures.

After their talk, Gu Qingci and Ruan Jinyu returned from the back.

Ruan Zhi took Gu Qingci back to the Gu residence.

Gu Qingci didn’t return empty-handed—she brought a broadsword and a stone barbell.

Ruan Zhi wondered how long Gu Qingci’s enthusiasm would last.

With the barbell, Gu Qingci did squats and bench presses at home in bizarre poses.

Ruan Zhi couldn’t bear to watch.

During tea tasting that evening, Ruan Zhi abstained, letting Gu Qingci compare and rank the teas while Madam Zhao took detailed notes.

Perfecting the technique would take time.

Even slight improvements delighted Gu Qingci.

The next morning, Ruan Zhi again escorted Gu Qingci to the Ruan residence before tending to her shop.

She avoided the official shops, using the carriage to visit farther towns.

Gu Qingci’s temporary mark from last time was deep, its residual pheromones acting as suppressants and shielding her from other alphas’ scents.

Just outside the city, she heard hoofbeats. Without lifting the curtain, she recognized the voice.

“That hundred-tael bet was yours, wasn’t it? Thanks for the silver! I’ll drink to that today!”

It was Xia Lingyan.

Though a servant had placed the bet, the families were so close that even their servants knew each other.

Ruan Zhi didn’t respond. So what if Xia Lingyan guessed?

She had anticipated this becoming a joke in Minshan County.

The carriage rolled on.

Xia Lingyan, feeling like she’d punched cotton, gritted her teeth and whipped her horse past the carriage.

Meanwhile, after Ruan Zhi left, Gu Qingci didn’t train. She sought out Ruan Maolin.

“You want to take Jinyu to the academy?” Ruan Maolin asked, startled.

“Jinyu said he’d like to experience the academy. He’ll pose as my attendant—I’ll take him in. It’ll be fine.” Gu Qingci said.

Yesterday, Ruan Jinyu had mentioned it again, longing to visit. Gu Qingci decided to indulge him.

Once she entered the martial arts school, she wouldn’t have another chance.

“Father, I’ll behave. Just one look.” Ruan Jinyu tugged at Ruan Maolin’s sleeve.

“…” Ruan Maolin studied them before nodding.

“Go ahead, but be careful. Don’t provoke anyone.” he said.

Both Gu Qingci and Ruan Jinyu were thrilled.

Since Ruan Zhi had taken the carriage, Ruan Maolin hired one for Gu Qingci and Ruan Jinyu to reach the academy.

Before leaving, Gu Qingci tied a soft cloth around her arm, pretending it was injured.

“Don’t be scared later. Just follow my lead. I’ll explain to the teacher. Let’s see if he’s as boring as yours.” Gu Qingci said.

“Sister, I’ll listen.” Ruan Jinyu nodded eagerly.

They arrived at the academy and headed to the beginner’s class.

During morning reading, the teacher stopped Gu Qingci before she entered.

“I fell off a horse yesterday and couldn’t attend. Today, remembering your teachings, I came despite the pain. But my hand can’t turn pages. May my attendant assist me? If not, I’ll have to return home in tears.” Gu Qingci spun her tale pitifully. Ruan Jinyu stifled laughter beside her.

The teacher gave her a complicated look but waved them in.

Gu Qingci had brought a cushion for Ruan Jinyu to sit on.

“A gentleman values honesty. That was a last resort—don’t learn from it.” Gu Qingci whispered.

Ruan Jinyu nodded, arranging books and turning pages, soaking in the academy atmosphere.

During break, classmates asked about Gu Qingci’s arm. She claimed a horseback injury, amusing them.

“Someone bet a hundred taels on you passing. Probably hoping for a fluke. If they knew this, they’d regret it. I’m placing a bet today too.” one said.

Gu Qingci feigned embarrassment but inwardly rejoiced—higher odds meant bigger winnings.

“Let them laugh. Soon, their faces will sting.” she told Ruan Jinyu quietly.

“Sister, you’re the most unique person I’ve ever met. You’re amazing!” Ruan Jinyu said in awe.

Gu Qingci grinned and ruffled his hair.

Her brother-in-law’s favor was easiest to win.

By noon, Ruan Jinyu had experienced the academy’s routines and the “boring teacher” Gu Qingci had described, thoroughly enjoying himself.

At lunch, classmates invited Gu Qingci to join them.

The dining hall had long tables for sharing.

Gu Qingci glanced at Ruan Jinyu, who nodded, eager to experience student life.

They sat down.

“Gu Qingci, we visited the brothel recently—you missed out. There’s a new girl, tender as a bud. Treat us today, and we’ll take you next time. Maybe her wine will inspire you to pass the exam.” one said suggestively.

The old Gu Qingci had often bought meals to gain their acceptance despite their disdain for her low rank. Now, with a wealthy merchant wife funding her, they tolerated her.

Gu Qingci covered Ruan Jinyu’s ears the moment “brothel” was mentioned.

She stared at them incredulously but waited until dishes arrived before standing.

“Ah, I forgot my money! How unlucky. Guess I won’t eat after all.” she said, leading Ruan Jinyu away.

“Hey! What’s this?” one demanded as dishes piled up.

“Really, no money. Enjoy.” Gu Qingci smiled politely.

They fumed, suspecting she’d done it deliberately but lacking proof.

“…Just wait till she needs us!” one hissed, resentful—unlike Gu Qingci, she couldn’t afford such extravagance.

Unconcerned, Gu Qingci took Ruan Jinyu outside.

“See how many people are here? If you attend later, be wary. Be generous to true friends, but never let exploiters take advantage.” she advised.

“I know. Sister, you’re amazing!” Ruan Jinyu admired her.

“Sister, as a merchant’s son, I can’t enroll here. Maybe never.” he sighed.

“Is the academy better? Look at me—I’m worse than you. One-on-one tutoring is a luxury they don’t have. Don’t lose heart. You’ll attend the Imperial Academy someday, even become the third-highest scholar!” Gu Qingci said.

In the original story, Ruan Zhi’s love interest had changed Ruan Jinyu’s merchant status.

That person’s status was extraordinary.

The thought inexplicably unsettled Gu Qingci.

She shook it off.

“Really? Thank you!” Ruan Jinyu smiled, cheered.

“Want to stay for afternoon classes or go home? The food here looks unappetizing.” Gu Qingci asked.

“Let’s go back. Father and Mother will worry.” Ruan Jinyu said, not wanting Gu Qingci to face further conflict.

After retrieving their books, they encountered a gaunt, shifty-eyed man outside.

“Gu Qingci, have you abandoned young lady huan? Can that merchant wife control you? Was the money not enough, or have you forgotten her? She’s still waiting.” he said.

Gu Qingci covered Ruan Jinyu’s ears again.

“Don’t spout nonsense. I have a wife and won’t dally with others. Tell her I have no money for her—she should marry properly.” Gu Qingci said coldly.

“Gu Qingci, you can’t even pass the scholar exams, with your lowly rank. Do you think young lady huan has no other options?” The man glared before leaving.

Gu Qingci hoped young lady huan, Xue Linhuan, one of the original Gu Qingci’s concubines would stay away.

She wanted no part of that entanglement.

Once he left, she hurried Ruan Jinyu away.

That afternoon, Ruan Zhi heard all about the academy visit from Ruan Jinyu.

Clearly, he was utterly charmed by Gu Qingci.

If she was foolish, she at least knew how to win hearts—taking Ruan Jinyu to the academy he’d longed to see.

Now, oddly, he’d lost interest.

“Sister says learning is learning, whether at the academy or home. With so many students, the teacher can’t attend to everyone. Home is better.” Ruan Jinyu said cheerfully.

Ruan Zhi was relieved. If Ruan Jinyu stopped clamoring to enroll, Ruan Maolin wouldn’t rush to arrange it or chase profits.

Gu Qingci’s absurd idea had an unexpectedly positive outcome.

That evening, Ruan Zhi asked Gu Qingci about her food preferences, instructing the kitchen to prepare them.

Gu Qingci happily listed a scientifically balanced training diet.

Seeing nothing extravagant, Ruan Zhi ordered the kitchen to follow it henceforth.

The academy visit was Gu Qingci’s last before the exams.

Afterward, she trained joyfully.

She mastered archery quickly, focusing on broadsword techniques and strength training—half-day study, half-day exercise, evening tea tasting.

Life was blissful.

As Ruan Zhi and Ruan Maolin busied themselves, they paid little attention to Gu Qingci’s progress.

Weeks passed, the weather warming.

Against expectations, Gu Qingci persisted until exam day.

The exam was held at the prefectural martial arts school, requiring travel to Guid Prefecture. Ruan Zhi accompanied her.

The journey took over three hours.

Gu Qingci, jostled by the carriage, grew drowsy. With Ruan Zhi’s permission, she lay down between the seats on a soft mat.

In the cramped space, their proximity allowed Ruan Zhi to smell Gu Qingci’s sweet scent clearly.

Busy and sleep-deprived lately, Ruan Zhi found her headache easing. The rocking carriage lulled her to sleep against Gu Qingci.

Gu Qingci awoke to something soft and warm—Ruan Zhi’s face nestled against her.

She didn’t move.

Ruan Zhi’s flawless features—porcelain skin, long lashes—were mesmerizing.

Some people were just born beautiful.

Too beautiful.

Gu Qingci shook her head.

Idle minds were dangerous.

After a month of disciplined training, her restraint was crumbling.

She suppressed the budding thoughts, reciting military classics silently.

When Ruan Zhi woke, Gu Qingci pretended to sleep.

Ruan Zhi, embarrassed, straightened up.

The nap, accompanied by Gu Qingci’s scent, had been unusually restful despite its brevity.

They arrived in Guid Prefecture by afternoon.

More prosperous than Minshan County, Guid Prefecture’s inns were packed with examinees. Securing the best room was no small feat.

Traveling on the company dime, all expenses paid, Gu Qingci was delighted.

But that night, a problem arose.

Only one premium room was available—a single large bed, no daybed.

Gu Qingci volunteered to sleep on the floor.

Ruan Zhi had bedding laid out.

By morning, Gu Qingci had rolled off the mat, stiff and with a cricked neck.

“Madam, it’s over! My neck—it’s stuck crooked! How do I take the exam like this?” Gu Qingci groaned.

“…” Ruan Zhi massaged her temples.

Gu Qingci taking the martial arts exam was already a joke. Now, it had a punchline.

“Eat first. We’ll find a doctor on the way to reset it.” Ruan Zhi said.

They searched in vain for a clinic. The sole one they found had its doctor out on calls.

“…Never mind. It’ll fix itself. Let’s go—we’ll miss the exam.” Gu Qingci said.

“…” Ruan Zhi had no choice but to proceed.

At the martial arts school, invigilators checked candidates’ necks, puzzled by Gu Qingci’s tilt.

“Did you sleep wrong?” one asked.

“Yeah.” Gu Qingci admitted sheepishly.

The exam proceeded.

For written answers, Gu Qingci’s head tilt made her appear deep in thought.

Physical tests were trickier—her neck hindered movements.

Yet somehow, she passed.

When results were announced, Gu Qingci’s name was among the successful candidates.

Ruan Zhi, stunned, checked twice.

Gu Qingci had become the first “crooked-neck martial arts scholar” in history.

Ideal: Work hard in silence; let success make the noise.

Reality: The first lopsided martial arts scholar ever.