My Wife Is The Female Lead In A Scum Alpha Novel - Chapter 33

33

Gu Qingci had been eating well and living comfortably these days, with moderate daily exercise. She had grown over two inches taller—about six or seven centimeters—since first arriving in this world. However, she hadn’t fully matured yet, so among the candidates taking the military provincial exam, she wasn’t particularly tall. What stood out was her striking appearance, especially her skin, which was several shades fairer than the other examinees, making her noticeably distinct from a distance.

Standing straight, she exuded a youthful vigor tinged with a hint of delicate refinement. At first glance, she looked more like a pampered young scholar than someone trained in martial arts.

“Your Highness, that’s the fairest-skinned little alpha over there. Don’t let her appearance fool you—her archery skills are quite impressive.” said Yue Yuming, the Vice Minister of War, pointing at Gu Qingci, who was waiting for her turn in the examination grounds, as she spoke to the woman beside her.

Yue Yuming had been one of the invigilators during Gu Qingci’s military licensure exam. Finding the situation amusing, she had mentioned it as a lighthearted anecdote to the woman next to her.

Skilled archers weren’t rare—at Yue Yuming’s rank, she had seen plenty of formidable military officers with excellent marksmanship. But Gu Qingci was the only one who could hit the bullseye every time while tilting her head.

“Her neck looks perfectly fine to me.” the woman remarked lazily, lifting her eyelids to glance in Gu Qingci’s direction before seeming to lose interest.

Yue Yuming stiffened slightly.

“During the archery assessment later, I’ll have her demonstrate for Your Highness.” Yue Yuming quickly added.

The woman neither agreed nor refused, leaning back into her soft couch with half-lidded eyes, looking utterly listless.

Yue Yuming quietly retreated a few steps and signaled to her attendant, whispering something in his ear.

The attendant immediately descended to the examination field.

Gu Qingci was stretching, preparing to perform at her best during the assessment—this time with flawless, textbook-perfect form to redeem herself from the embarrassing “Crooked-neck top scorer” incident.

Before her turn arrived, she sensed someone approaching. Recognizing the official robes, Gu Qingci was puzzled.

“Are you Gu Qingci?” the man asked when he reached her.

“I am. How may I assist you, sir?” Gu Qingci bowed slightly.

“When it’s your turn to shoot, please use the same posture you did during the military licensure exam.” the man said in a low voice.

“The same posture?” Gu Qingci blinked.

“The crooked-neck one. Whether you leave a lasting impression here depends on it.” the man replied meaningfully.

Gu Qingci choked on air, coughing twice.

What the hell?!

Who on earth had noticed her during the military licensure exam? And now they wanted her to reenact the crooked-neck archery performance?!

She wasn’t suffering from a stiff neck this time—tilting her head to shoot now would make her look like an absolute fool!

And here she’d been hoping to rebuild her image with a dashing display!

“Are you serious, sir?” Gu Qingci asked after composing herself.

“Absolutely. A noble is watching.” the man said.

“…Fine.” Gu Qingci agreed, her expression complicated.

Rumor had it that the examiners for the provincial-level military exams were all dispatched from the capital. If this man was referring to a “noble” who knew how high-ranking they were? She couldn’t afford to offend them.

Tilting her neck to shoot wasn’t impossible—it just required a slightly different adjustment than her usual aim.

Once Gu Qingci agreed, the man withdrew.

She rolled her neck, trying to recapture the feeling.

Soon, it was her turn.

As before, the first test was stationary archery, though the draw weight required was slightly heavier than during the military licensure exam.

Gu Qingci had been training her strength and was now much stronger than before.

There were three bow options: one with a draw weight of one dan, another at one dan and two dou, and a third at one dan and five dou.

The one dan and five dou bow was manageable for Gu Qingci, but drawing it to full extension would be strenuous.

She chose the one dan and two dou bow, leaving herself some leeway in case the examiners threw another curveball.

What should have been a moment for her to showcase her archery skills with cool precision turned into an awkward farce as Gu Qingci stiffly tilted her head after nocking the arrow, gauging the wind and adjusting her aim.

Even with her relatively thick skin, she couldn’t help but flush slightly.

The other examinees in her group who hadn’t known her before stared in surprise at her posture.

“What’s she doing?” one of the already-tested military scholars whispered.

“You wouldn’t know this, but she’s the top scorer from our Guide Prefecture. Her signature move is tilting her head while shooting—every arrow hits dead center when she does!”

One candidate from Guide Prefecture, familiar with the local legends, chimed in.

“Seeing is believing—I never thought it was real!” someone marveled.

Gu Qingci adjusted, drew, and released her first arrow purely by instinct.

It struck the straw dummy’s head dead center.

Gasps of amazement erupted around her.

For the stationary archery test, hitting any part of the straw dummy counted as a pass. Most examinees aimed for the larger torso area—only those confident in their skills dared target the smaller head. Among those, landing an arrow precisely between the eyebrows was considered the pinnacle of marksmanship.

Gu Qingci had done it.

After two consecutive headshots, she sent two more arrows into the dummy’s “heart” then distributed the remaining shots between its shoulders and legs.

Since someone was watching, she decided to put on a performance.

When it came to mounted archery, Gu Qingci replicated her stationary shots with eerie precision—ten arrows striking the exact same spots as before.

“Moderately amusing.”

The woman Yue Yuming had urged to watch the “crooked-neck scholar” gave her verdict after observing Gu Qingci’s display.

Yue Yuming exhaled slightly in relief.

“May I speak with her at the Eagle Banquet?” Yue Yuming asked quietly, sensing the woman’s interest.

“Merely a provincial graduate.” The woman dismissed the idea with those words, reclining lazily again. Her slender fingers flicked in a vague gesture, and Yue Yuming dared not press further. With a resigned glint in her eyes, she withdrew from the shaded pavilion and returned to her invigilator’s seat.

After archery, Gu Qingci moved on to the blade and strength tests.

Unsure whether her mysterious audience still wanted the crooked-neck act, she glanced around—the minor official who’d delivered the request was nowhere in sight.

With no choice, she carried on with the ridiculous posture.

Who the hell has such bizarre tastes?! She’d have to investigate the examiners’ identities later. This was beyond absurd.

By the time she finished, her neck had stiffened so much she could barely straighten it. In the literary exam hall, she massaged it for ages before feeling somewhat normal again.

For the policy essay, Gu Qingci had prepared extensively—writing drafts, having them critiqued and refined by her tutor, and practicing with past papers. Recognizing a familiar theme in the prompt, she adapted one of her pre-written essays, tweaking the arguments to fit.

Even with most of the work done beforehand, the mental exertion left her drained.

Civil exams are brutal.

Handing in her paper, she finally exhaled in relief.

The provincial exams were over.

With this major life milestone behind her, her steps felt lighter as she left the exam hall.

Outside, another military scholar greeted her enthusiastically.

“Congratulations! Scholar Gu, you’re truly extraordinary!”

A fellow examinee from her group.

“Same to you. But please, don’t spread word about earlier. I’d appreciate it.” Gu Qingci replied with a cupped-hand salute, keeping her voice low.

The crooked-neck act during the licensure exam had been unavoidable—she had no desire for it to become part of her provincial exam legend too.

“Understood! Your secret technique shall remain undisclosed!” The man nodded sagely.

Gu Qingci’s eyebrow twitched. Great. Now it’s a “secret technique.”

Explaining that some eccentric examiner had requested it would only make things worse. She could only hope witnesses would keep quiet.

After exchanging a few more words, she spotted a familiar figure—Wen Renyi.

Though they’d only met during the licensure exams, Wen Renyi had taken to treating Gu Qingci as a close friend. Despite finding her somewhat eccentric, Gu Qingci appreciated her sincerity and considered her a friend too. Their reunion was warm.

“Scholar Gu! Ah—my treat today. Let’s celebrate.” Wen Renyi declared after greetings, clapping Gu Qingci’s shoulder. Her eyes held a hint of… pity?

“Why the sigh? Did your exam not go well?” Gu Qingci asked.

“No. I’d thought with my teachings, you’d surely have… ahem… achieved marital bliss by now. Yet, you remain…” Wen Renyi trailed off meaningfully.

Her tone carried both sympathy and faint disappointment—as if Gu Qingci were a hopeless student.

“……” Being friends with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner means zero privacy, huh?

“These things require mutual affection and timing. Can’t rush it. Let’s not discuss this.” Gu Qingci deflected.

“Fascinating perspective! Scholar Gu continues to stand apart!” Wen Renyi seemed impressed, her esteem for Gu Qingci growing.

“Wait—can all medical practitioners tell if someone’s… you know… at a glance?” Gu Qingci whispered.

“Don’t worry. Only those specializing in this field can discern it from facial features. Others wouldn’t notice.” Wen Renyi assured, looking smug.

“……” Gu Qingci was speechless but relieved.

“About that treat—let’s go to Youzhou City’s finest restaurant.” she changed the subject.

“Naturally. Let’s go.” Wen Renyi grinned.

As they agreed, Gu Qingci spotted her family’s carriage outside the exam grounds. She’d hoped to inform Ruan Zhi, but the carriage was empty.

“The madam had business and sent me to fetch you first.” the coachman explained.

“Wait for her, then. Tell her I’ve gone to a restaurant with Friend Wen Ren from last time and will return to the inn later.” Gu Qingci instructed before leaving to meet Wen Renyi.

Familiar with Youzhou City, Wen Renyi led them to a pre-booked private dining room.

Over dishes, their conversation flowed.

The military exam’s practical portion usually indicated results—only rankings remained uncertain. They spoke as fellow provincial graduates now.

“Our chief examiners include the Provincial Governor, Vice Minister of War Yue Yuming, the Hanlin Academician…”

“Results release in ten days. All successful candidates will attend the Eagle Banquet—the Governor and capital-appointed examiners will be present. A prime opportunity to make impressions.”

“Most candidates stay in Youzhou City awaiting results, networking through banquets. The civil exam crowd busies themselves with poetry gatherings to build reputations. For military graduates, it’s mostly martial exchanges—those from military families love organizing these. As provincial graduates, we’re now eligible for official posts. Those who doubt they’ll pass the metropolitan exams start currying favor now, seeking appointments.”

Wen Renyi, knowing Gu Qingci’s political naivety, explained carefully.

Gu Qingci noted the examiners’ names.

Just because I can’t openly retaliate doesn’t mean I can’t make life inconvenient for them later.

“Scholar Gu, are you aware of the… factions at these banquets?” Wen Renyi asked after her lengthy explanation.

Gu Qingci shook her head. She hadn’t prepared for this nor planned to pursue office.

“Court factions are treacherous. Align wrongly, and you’ll make enemies. Currently, there are neutrals, the Crown Prince’s faction, and the Third Prince’s faction. Unless you’re committed, avoid deep ties to either. Reject recruitment politely. Being labeled brings complications. Neutrals are safest. Let me list some names—remember them if invited…”

“Additionally, Youzhou City is the fief of Her Highness Princess Ye Youli. She attends every triennial Eagle Banquet. As the Emperor’s firstborn from his principal wife during his princely days, she’s deeply favored by His Majesty—and equally resented by the Empress and both princes. With weak maternal clan backing and a… reputation for frivolity, she stays out of politics, indulging in wine and entertainment. Still, if her people approach you, show courtesy—but keep distance.”

Wen Renyi’s warnings made Gu Qingci’s head spin—until one name jolted her alert.

Ye Youli.

The Crown Prince and Third Prince held no interest—they were destined cannon fodder.

But Princess Ye Youli…

Youzhou City is her fief?!

Too absorbed in training and essays, she’d neglected current affairs.

Was Ruan Zhi meeting her right now?!

Her mood soured.

“Does the Princess reside in Youzhou City? Is she present now?” Gu Qingci asked.

“Of course—she oversees provincial exams. Absence would invite censure.” Wen Renyi said.

Gu Qingci deflated.

“You mentioned her… indulgences. Does she keep many consorts? Frequent pleasure quarters?” she pressed.

“Oddly, no. Her Highness has no consorts—not even a primary wife. Eerily, all her betrothed met misfortunes preventing marriage. At twenty-three, she remains unwed. Her ‘indulgences’ are literal—maintaining opera troupes and musicians in her palace, all beauties, for daily performances. She hunts, hosts polo and kickball tournaments. Rumors say she’s dissipated, but…” Wen Renyi lowered her voice. “Having seen her, I’d say—like you—she retains her maidenhood. My theory? Her antics are survival. Any ambition would provoke worse persecution. Keep this to yourself.”

“……” Each word deepened Gu Qingci’s gloom.

This backstory practically screams ‘waiting for the female lead’!

Their destined pairing.

If Ye Youli were unworthy, would Ruan Zhi invest so heavily—binding their fates with silver and soldiers?

Her appetite gone, Gu Qingci half-heartedly conversed until dusk. They parted with plans to meet again, and she returned to the inn.

Ruan Zhi hadn’t returned.

Alone in her room, Gu Qingci stared blankly before channeling her restlessness into vigorous exercise. Drenched in sweat, she called for a bath.

As hot water soothed her muscles, clarity came.

Short pain beats long suffering.

If Ruan Zhi found Ye Youli and sought divorce… so be it.

No more lovesick foolishness. Freedom awaited.

Look how well Ye Youli lives!

She’d start her own opera troupe, recruit a “girl group” of beauties for music and song.

Kickball, polo—why hadn’t she explored ancient entertainment sooner?!

Months in this world, wasted on exams!

Ye Youli and Ruan Zhi were mere stepping stones to her carefree future!

Yes!

Exactly!

Chest puffed with renewed vigor, she dressed and summoned her page Shimo to fix her hair, casually inquiring about Ruan Zhi.

“The madam hasn’t returned.” Shimo answered.

Dusk approached—curfew loomed. Where was she?

Had her fears materialized?

They weren’t divorced yet.

By technicality, she was the “other woman.”

Her cheeks puffed then deflated.

Worry overriding pettiness, she decided to search—starting with the Ruan family’s sole Youzhou City shop.

But upon exiting the inn, she spotted their carriage.

Ruan Zhi was back.

Retreating upstairs, Gu Qingci paced before mustering courage to knock on Ruan Zhi’s door.

“You’re back! Did things not go well today?” she asked, noting Ruan Zhi’s subdued expression.

“Not ideally.” Ruan Zhi admitted.

Her once-loyal guard Min Guiyi—whom she’d sought since rebirth—was finally located in Youzhou City. Yet their reunion had faltered.

“What happened? Can I help?” Gu Qingci offered.

“Unlikely. The timing isn’t right. Conditions aren’t met.” Ruan Zhi sighed.

In their past life, Min Guiyi only pledged loyalty after Ruan Zhi avenged his family’s murder and rescued him from enslavement. Now, as a contented blacksmith with living loved ones, he had no interest in service.

Forcing his tragedy felt cruel—she needed another approach.

“Is it absolutely necessary? Could you… let go?” Gu Qingci ventured, heart souring.

‘Conditions unmet’—meaning Ye Youli isn’t ready yet?

Without shared memories, the princess remained oblivious.

“Impossible. That person is vital. I’ll devise another way. Don’t trouble yourself. How were your exams?” Ruan Zhi redirected.

Gu Qingci’s unusual volubility and visit intrigued her.

“I passed the military practicals. The essay topic resembled my prepared drafts—no issues.” Gu Qingci reported.

Ruan Zhi’s words twisted her heart into knots.

Ye Youli was crucial to Ruan Zhi—but their status gap made meetings difficult.

This time, Ruan Zhi believed her instantly.

“We’ll await results here. You’ll need new attire for banquets and the Eagle Banquet—you’ve outgrown your old clothes.” Ruan Zhi smiled warmly.

Bathed in that gaze, Gu Qingci’s eyes prickled. Her traitorous heart raced.

“Thank you, I’ll rest now.” she mumbled, fleeing upon Ruan Zhi’s acknowledgment.

Further self-pep-talks and physical exhaustion soon dragged her into sleep.

…

Next morning, after exercises and breakfast, Ruan Zhi invited her to the shop’s grand opening.

“I’ll pass, I’m meeting Wen Renyi.” Gu Qingci declined.

“Very well. Don’t stint on spending with friends.” Ruan Zhi said, handing her banknotes before leaving.

Accepting the money, Gu Qingci sought Wen Renyi.

“Meeting the Princess early? Possible, but tricky. She adores kickball—attends local matches occasionally. Excel at it, and her palace team might recruit you. Why the sudden interest?” Wen Renyi asked.

“Merely eager to behold her magnificence.” Gu Qingci lied.

She wanted to accelerate Ruan Zhi and Ye Youli’s meeting—to sever her own bonds sooner.

Wen Renyi’s explanation almost convinced her to take up kickball as matchmaker.

“Her Highness is breathtakingly beautiful. But patience—the Eagle Banquet guarantees an audience. Forget that for now! A novel teahouse opened today—pre-launch, civil examinees received free samples that sparked poetic praises. Let’s investigate!” Wen Renyi enthused.

Gu Qingci froze. Teahouse? Tea samples?

Ruan Zhi’s Youzhou City venture!

The tea project had progressed quietly—Gu Qingci only participating in tastings. After securing tea gardens and stockpiling leaves, Ruan Zhi and Ruan Maolin had timed their launch with the exam crowds.

The marketing strategy—targeting scholars with free samples to generate buzz—was quintessential Ruan Zhi.

Curious about her partial ownership, Gu Qingci agreed.

The “Qingyou Teahouse” exuded fragrant aromas from blocks away. Crowds overflowed—some queuing to enter, others buying packaged tea at a side window where a graceful hostess demonstrated brewing techniques.

“Exquisite aroma! Such queues though… Shall we wait?” Wen Renyi sighed.

“Friend Wen Ren, this is my wife’s establishment. Let me inquire about reserved seating.” Gu Qingci revealed.

“Your lady is formidable!” Wen Renyi marveled.

Spotting Madam Zhao at the entrance, Gu Qingci waved her over.

“Young master! Here for tea?” Madam Zhao greeted.

“With a friend. Are there seats available? I don’t want to disrupt operations.”

“Of course! The madam reserved private rooms upstairs.”

As Madam Zhao led them up, Wen Renyi suddenly tugged Gu Qingci’s sleeve, gesturing discreetly toward another group.

A tall woman in gold-embroidered robes, a jade pendant at her waist, was ushered into a room surrounded by attendants. Her profile was aristocratic, demeanor aloof.

“Your person of interest! Speak of the devil!” Wen Renyi whispered.

“……”

No matchmaking required—she came herself!

In their private room, Wen Renyi savored tea while Gu Qingci’s cup might as well have held water.

Her mind floated somewhere beyond her body.

Short pain indeed—but this was lightning-fast!

She shook her head, cycling through rationalizations to untangle her emotions.

Abruptly, she stood.

After excusing herself, she found Madam Zhao.

“Take me to Ruan Zhi.”

Better to initiate the conversation than wait for Ruan Zhi’s words.

Gu Qingci: Guess why someone laughs through their tears…