My Wife Is The Female Lead In A Scum Alpha Novel - Chapter 66

66

Ruan Zhi went to the tailor shop today to attend to several distinguished guests, including the daughter of the Left Chancellor and the wife of the Minister of Revenue, all of whom belonged to the upper echelons of Yanjing’s elite circles.

As the tailor shop gained fame within these circles, more high-ranking clients began to frequent it.

Ruan Zhi felt a sense of accomplishment about this—it was exactly the effect she had hoped for.

While Ruan Zhi was attending to the daughter of the Left Chancellor, a few noblewomen browsing clothes in the shop whispered among themselves.

“This Lady Ruan is said to be the legal wife of the newly appointed Martial Arts Scholar, Gu Qingci. She originally came from a merchant family but changed her status after following Scholar Gu.”

“Now that Lord Gu is a third-rank military official, how can someone of her background be worthy?”

“Oh, don’t you know? Scholar Gu has taken in many dancers and musicians at home but has never agreed to take concubines or marry additional wives. Perhaps this Lady Ruan has some tricks up her sleeve.”

“Hmph, that’s only because the other party’s status isn’t high enough. If it were a noblewoman like a county princess or a commandery princess, would Lord Gu still refuse?”

“Lady Ruan is of no help to Scholar Gu’s career, but she is, after all, his wife from his humble days. He has to put on a show of loyalty. By building a reputation for devotion, he might just catch the eye of some naive noblewoman.”

The women spoke in hushed tones, unaware that not far from them stood an unmarried young woman with tightly pursed lips and a tense expression.

This was the Changning County Princess.

The day before, her father, Chu Shao, had returned and spent the entire time extolling Gu Qingci’s virtues and talents.

Her father had never praised anyone like this before.

He had even said, “If you can rein in your temper, even becoming Gu Qingci’s secondary wife would ensure a future better than that of a princess consort.”

“If you’re willing to nod in agreement, I’ll request an imperial decree for the marriage!”

This came from her father, who had always doted on her the most.

Yet he could say such things!

Princess Changning was furious.

However, her father had recounted Gu Qingci’s various deeds along the way, which filled her with admiration.

Having grown up in a military family, she admired those with exceptional martial prowess the most.

Hearing the words of those noblewomen made Princess Changning feel somewhat uncomfortable.

As a fourth-rank princess, she had been rejected by Gu Qingci several times—and even publicly rebuked each time.

Gu Qingci was fiercely protective of Ruan Zhi—something she had personally experienced.

But looking at it from another angle, didn’t that mean Gu Qingci would treat her own wife well?

Though she herself disliked sharing a wife with others, observing Ruan Zhi—who, despite having changed her status, still ventured out to run a business—she was always respectful and courteous to the noblewomen and knew exactly how to conduct herself around Princess Changning.

If she were to marry Gu Qingci as an equal wife, given her status as a fourth-rank princess, wouldn’t Ruan Zhi have to bow to her and defer to her wishes?

Thinking of this, Princess Changning’s expression softened slightly.

No matter what, she wouldn’t give Gu Qingci a pleasant look—unless she apologized and admitted her mistakes!

Only then might she consider nodding in agreement to her father.

Princess Changning lifted her chin and walked over to Ruan Zhi, intending to ask about fabrics and dress styles.

Just as she approached and Ruan Zhi was about to bow to her, a figure swiftly stepped between them.

“Madam!” It was Gu Qingci, who had just arrived.

Her breathing was slightly hurried, but her face was radiant with joy.

“My lord, why have you returned so early?” Ruan Zhi was surprised to see Gu Qingci. Noticing her elated expression, she guessed that Emperor Changping might have rewarded her handsomely.

“The court session ended early today, and I didn’t have patrol duties, so I came back sooner. Greetings to all the esteemed ladies and young misses. Since it’s still early, may I invite everyone to my humble home for tea? The Top Scholar Tea and Top Scholar’s Wife Tea from Qingyou Teahouse make excellent milk tea, and there are also snacks and pastries from Yaju Pavilion.” After speaking warmly to Ruan Zhi, Gu Qingci clasped her hands and smiled at the others.

Her charming words, paired with her handsome appearance, delighted the noblewomen and young ladies. Given that their husbands were eager to befriend Gu Qingci, everyone in the shop readily accepted the invitation.

Princess Changning, however, hesitated momentarily.

After all, she and Gu Qingci were not exactly on good terms.

“County Princess Changning, aren’t you coming? We’ve prepared several new flavors of milk tea, all of which haven’t been released yet. You could help us taste them and see if they’re good.” Gu Qingci looked at County Princess Changning with a smile, a stark contrast to her previous demeanor, which had often left the princess in tears after their heated exchanges.

“…Don’t try to fool me! Fine, I’ll see for myself whether they’re any good or not!”

County Princess Changning’s face darkened as she spoke, but she ultimately agreed.

Ruan Zhi had no idea what Gu Qingci was up to. Seeing her smile at County Princess Changning, she discreetly pinched Gu Qingci through her sleeve.

Gu Qingci, in turn, grasped Ruan Zhi’s hand and led her out.

Each family had their own carriage, and they boarded theirs to return to their residence together.

“What’s this about?” Ruan Zhi asked Gu Qingci.

“Nothing much. Just supporting my wife’s business.” Gu Qingci replied, wanting to give Ruan Zhi a pleasant surprise—and those others one as well.

When she heard that Ruan Zhi had returned to the clothing shop, Gu Qingci hurried over.

After catching snippets of gossip and seeing Ruan Zhi bowing to others, diligently introducing clothing styles and matching accessories to people who carried themselves with arrogance in their eyes and gestures, an idea suddenly struck her.

The emperor’s word was law. Since Emperor Changping had promised to send someone to deliver an imperial decree, why not share the joy with everyone?

She wanted these people to return every bow they had made to Ruan Zhi right then and there.

Ruan Zhi studied Gu Qingci’s expression, sensing that she was hiding something.

She pinched Gu Qingci’s cheek.

“What little scheme are you up to?” Ruan Zhi pressed.

“Let me keep it a secret for now, alright? You’ll find out soon, my lady.” Gu Qingci said, hugging Ruan Zhi and nuzzling her in a coquettish tone.

Seeing her like this, Ruan Zhi didn’t press further.

Perhaps Gu Qingci had been promoted.

Or maybe Emperor Changping had bestowed some rewards, and she was simply in high spirits, which was why she wanted to treat these people to tea?

Soon, they arrived at their residence.

Gu Qingci’s sudden idea ended up keeping Ruan Zhi busy.

Inviting several noblewomen wasn’t as simple as just extending an invitation with a single word.

Seating arrangements, food and drink preparations, accommodations for their maids and servants—all these required the mistress of the household to oversee.

Fortunately, there were only five or six ladies present at the shop at the time.

The Qingyou Teahouse was their own family’s business, and the newly developed milk tea was made by the household cooks, ready to be served at any time.

As for the pastries, they were Gu Qingci’s favorites, so Ruan Zhi prepared some daily. These noblewomen and young ladies had small appetites and wouldn’t eat much—Gu Qingci’s portion alone would be enough for them.

Ruan Zhi entertained the group with food, drinks, and polite conversation.

Although the County Princess of Changning had a head full of thoughts, the moment she saw the milk tea and pastries, her attention was completely captured by them.

Gu Qingci did not sit at the same table as the noblewomen, as it would have been improper. Instead, she waited outside for the imperial edict to arrive.

Her only worry was that the guests might leave before the edict came.

Fortunately, Emperor Changping was efficient enough. After waiting about half an hour, the eunuch delivering the edict arrived!

“Imperial Edict has arrived!” The eunuch’s distinctive voice rang out, startling everyone present.

Thankfully, these women were all well-bred and experienced. After the initial surprise, they followed the protocol to kneel and receive the edict.

An imperial edict was to be regarded as the emperor himself.

Naturally, Ruan Zhi heard it too.

This must be the reward Emperor Changping had promised Gu Qingci—now delivered.

She deliberately called all these people here just to show off, didn’t she?

How childish.

Ruan Zhi followed along to receive the imperial decree.

An imperial edict was a major event, so everyone in the residence had gathered, including Ruan Zhi’s parents, younger brother, as well as the dancers and musicians living in the estate.

Everyone assumed the decree was for Gu Qingci.

“Gu Qingci, receive the decree.” the eunuch announced, holding the scroll.

Hearing this, no one was surprised.

Those who had caught wind of the news were somewhat envious of Gu Qingci’s rising official fortunes.

When Gu Qingci heard the eunuch call her name, she felt a pang of unease.

Had Emperor Changping taken her words as a joke?

“Your servant, Gu Qingci, humbly receives the imperial decree.” Pulled by Ruan Zhi, Gu Qingci quickly bowed and spoke.

“By the mandate of heaven… Gu Qingci has rendered meritorious service in suppressing bandits and is hereby rewarded with fertile land… gold and pearls… jade artifacts… and elevated to the third-rank nobility as Marquis Wu Lie…”

As the assembled crowd listened to Gu Qingci being rewarded and promoted in rank, they all felt she was a remarkable young talent.

Qin Ruofang felt a twinge of worry, concerned that Gu Qingci’s rise might make her look down on Ruan Zhi in the future.

Meanwhile, among the kneeling dancers, those with ambitions grew even more restless.

A lord like this was worth going all out to win over.

But as the eunuch finished reading the decree, Gu Qingci grew increasingly astonished—and disappointed.

She was granted land, gold, and silver, and even had her noble rank elevated!

Her previous rank had been ninth-grade, but now she was directly promoted to third-grade!

Instead of the substantive position of Left Commander, she was given a higher noble title.

Though the title came with no specific official duties, it provided a stipend and elevated her status—something that should have been ideal.

But the premise was that she had explicitly asked Emperor Changping to exchange all of this for a noble title for Ruan Zhi!

What’s the use of this Marquis of Martial Valor?!

Emperor Changping, you thick-browed and big-eyed—you’re the emperor! A monarch’s word is sacred!

And here she thought he was pretty decent.

Gu Qingci grumbled inwardly as she reluctantly rose to receive the imperial edict.

Forcing a polite expression, she fumbled for her purse to tip the eunuch delivering the decree, only for him to produce another edict.

“Where is Ruan Zhi, the principal wife of Gu Qingci?” the eunuch asked, holding the second edict.

The crowd, who had been about to rise, froze in place.

Ruan Zhi was also stunned.

Why would the imperial messenger ask for her? What did this have to do with her?

“This commoner woman is here!”

Ruan Zhi hurriedly responded.

“Ruan Zhi, receive the decree!”

Seeing Ruan Zhi among them, the eunuch declared.

At this, everyone else was shocked.

Ruan Zhi was to receive an edict?!

“This commoner woman, Ruan Zhi, humbly welcomes the imperial decree!”

Suppressing her astonishment, Ruan Zhi replied with the practiced grace of her past life, showing not a trace of panic.

“By the Decree of Heaven and the Mandate of the Emperor, it is proclaimed that Lady Ruan, virtuous and gentle by nature, a model of grace and propriety, is hereby conferred the title of Third-Rank Commandery Lady, with the honorific ‘Zhilan’, and bestowed with the ceremonial robes of a Commandery Lady…”

The imperial eunuch continued to read the edict.

As Gu Qingci listened, her heart settled at last.

Emperor Changping had not only refrained from reducing her rewards but had also granted Ruan Zhi the title of Commandery Lady.

She was moved to tears.

“Great Boss, you truly are a wise ruler! I misjudged you! Wuwu… I will serve you faithfully as your subject, absolutely avoiding any involvement in factional struggles like succession disputes, and resolutely uphold your position without wavering!”

Gu Qingci silently apologized to Emperor Changping in her heart.

The noblewomen and young ladies who had accompanied them to receive the edict were all taken aback.

Ruan Zhi had actually been ennobled as a Commandery Lady!

Because of Gu Qingci’s meritorious service in suppressing bandits, not only had Gu Qingci herself been promoted in rank, but Ruan Zhi had also received honors by extension!

Just how great were her achievements?!

The “commoner” who had just bowed respectfully to them had, in mere moments, been elevated to a noble Commandery Lady of higher rank than them!

The County Princess of Changning felt particularly conflicted.

A Third-Rank Commandery Lady—one rank higher than herself!

Marrying the right person could indeed change an omega’s fate.

Ruan Zhi’s parents, who had been worried earlier, were now overwhelmed with joy.

The dancers and musicians were even more excited.

Following such a master promised a bright future!

Ruan Zhi, still dazed, accepted the imperial edict and generously rewarded the accompanying eunuchs with silver.

After seeing off the imperial entourage, she remained somewhat in disbelief.

“Congratulations, Lord Gu, and congratulations to Madam Zhilan!” The quick-witted noblewoman had already returned the courtesy bow to Ruan Zhi in congratulations.

Gu Qingci smiled as she looked at the crowd, her gaze lingering particularly on the County Princess of Changning.

When the County Princess of Changning met Gu Qingci’s eyes, she felt so angry she could practically see smoke rising from her head.

She had thought… Gu Qingci had taken a liking to her, suddenly being so warm and even inviting her to drink milk tea.

Turns out, she was waiting for her here!

How outrageous!

Last time, she had to bow to Gu Qingci, and this time, she had to bow to Ruan Zhi!

No matter how spoiled she was, she still had to perform the bow.

After finishing the bow, she was left seething with anger.

Gu Qingci, still smiling, saw the guests out, reminding them before they left not to forget to order clothes from the tailor shop.

“A third-rank titled noblewoman—what kind of high rank is that!” Qin Ruofang was at a loss for words, staring at the ceremonial robes and various rewards bestowed by the emperor, unable to believe it.

“Even the wife of the prefect would have to bow to our Ah Zhi when they meet! Did you see those noble ladies just now? They all bowed to Ah Zhi!” Ruan Maolin marveled, now utterly satisfied with his daughter’s wife.

Ruan Zhi looked at the pile of imperial rewards waiting to be put away, her expression dazed.

She remembered how Gu Qingci had kept it a secret earlier—she must have known all along.

A titled noblewoman!

Many official wives never receive such an honor because the conditions are so stringent—it requires meritorious achievements.

When officials earn merits and exchange them for rewards, they usually prioritize promotions for themselves.

Bestowing honors upon mothers and wives serves as a reward for the officials while offsetting other potential accolades.

Moreover, officials needed to petition the emperor for rewards; otherwise, the benefits would typically be granted to the mother first.

Others didn’t understand, but Ruan Zhi, upon hearing that Gu Qingci had only been elevated in noble rank without being granted an official position with real authority, combined with her own rewards, began to piece together some clues.

The title of “Commandery Lady” was not the immense honor others might assume it to be for Ruan Zhi, who in her past life had relied on herself to become a royal merchant, entered the Imperial Household Department, and commanded the respect of nobles.

At this moment, her emotions were merely stirred by the realization that Gu Qingci had fought for this honor and respect on her behalf.

Recalling Gu Qingci’s demeanor when she first arrived at the clothing shop, it turned out that Gu Qingci had always cared deeply, hence she deliberately sought this title for Ruan Zhi.

She even specifically invited several distinguished guests from the shop—not to flaunt her own rewards, but to have them witness Ruan Zhi’s recognition.

Ruan Zhi had never imagined relying on her wife’s status for glory, yet here was someone who, time and again, with unwavering sincerity, fought for her dignity and honor.

Why was this person like this? Always full of surprises.

After returning, Gu Qingci exchanged a few words with Ruan Zhi’s parents. Once they had returned to their own courtyard, Gu Qingci carried Ruan Zhi back to the inner room.

“Madam, how was it? Was this a surprise? This afternoon, we went to update our identity tokens. From now on, when you go out, let’s see who dares to disrespect you!” Gu Qingci said to Ruan Zhi, her expression radiant.

“…” Ruan Zhi looked at Gu Qingci’s exuberant face, feeling a warmth in her eyes as a thick, dense emotion welled up in her heart.

“A Ci, how can you be so good?” Ruan Zhi murmured softly.

Hearing Ruan Zhi call her name so suddenly, Gu Qingci froze for a moment before her eyes curved into crescents.

“Madam, the way you say my name sounds so lovely. Say it again for me. I love hearing it—can you always call me that from now on?” Gu Qingci said, resting her chin on Ruan Zhi’s shoulder and tilting her ear toward Ruan Zhi’s lips, eager to listen.

“……” The name Ruan Zhi had just blurted out now felt a bit embarrassing to say again.

But seeing Gu Qingci waiting expectantly, she still managed to call it out.

“A Ci!”

After calling Gu Qingci’s name, her lips brushed against Gu Qingci’s earlobe.

The originally pale earlobe and ear instantly turned red, like crimson agate.

Gu Qingci, feeling ticklish, shrank back slightly and looked up to see Ruan Zhi gazing at her.

There was a look in her eyes, as if she had just discovered something new.

“Ah, hehe, madam, now that you’re a titled noblewoman, you’ll have to attend the emperor’s birthday banquet. You’ll need to prepare for it.” Gu Qingci said, feeling inexplicably shy for some reason.

Ruan Zhi watched Gu Qingci deflect and reached out to pinch her soft, slightly fleshy earlobe.

Gu Qingci shrank back even more.

“Madam, that tickles.” Gu Qingci said, hugging Ruan Zhi and burying her ear against the crook of Ruan Zhi’s neck.

Ruan Zhi chuckled.

She had thought Gu Qingci never got shy and had no sensitive spots.

But at this moment, she was quite adorable.

“Thank you for the reminder, my lord. I’ll prepare properly. Thank you, my lord!” Ruan Zhi said softly.

“Madam, won’t you call me A Ci?” Gu Qingci pouted.

“A Ci is only for whispering in my wife’s ear.” Ruan Zhi replied.

“……” Gu Qingci felt like Ruan Zhi had learned to tease her.

“Sister, this morning’s kiss was only for a little while—I didn’t get enough.” Gu Qingci declared, deciding to reclaim her dignity. She picked Ruan Zhi up, staring at her earnestly before leaning in closer, waiting for Ruan Zhi to close the distance between them.

She liked to be close, and Ruan Zhi was also willing—it wasn’t just her own one-sided desire for intimacy.

With just a slight distance between them, Ruan Zhi lifted her head and met Gu Qingci’s lips.

The term “sister” held a powerful allure for Ruan Zhi.

The morning’s intimacy continued.

Now with even more tenderness and lingering affection.

And even more heart-fluttering joy.

However, as it was nearly lunchtime, the two didn’t have much time to be close. Before they could take things further, it was already time for the midday meal.

Lunch was eaten with the Ruan family.

After the meal, Gu Qingci couldn’t wait to take Ruan Zhi to the government office to update her identity card.

Her new status—a third-rank titled noblewoman—was now officially in effect.

Gu Qingci was even happier about it than Ruan Zhi herself.

Since they were already out, Gu Qingci decided to visit the dance and music troupe she had been longing to see.

Now that she was a third-rank Martial Valor Marquis and a first-class imperial guard, she still held a leisurely position without real authority. She didn’t have to worry about this or that or engage in scheming and power struggles—she was merely a noblewoman with access to the palace.

With Emperor Changping as her big boss and backing her, she could relax and take it easy.

So, in the days to come, she would naturally focus on enjoying life to the fullest.

With Ruan Zhi by her side.

The dance and music troupe was located in a two-story building behind the bustling market district, already nearly fully renovated. In the center was a stage, surrounded by seating for guests—ordinary seats as well as private rooms.

Gu Qingci was very satisfied with the stage setup.

“Can we go back and watch their performances? We can also explain our plans to them and see how they choose to stay or leave.” Gu Qingci said to Ruan Zhi on their way back.

“Alright.” Ruan Zhi paused before replying.

Among those dancers and musicians, there were more than a few with impure intentions, hoping to climb the social ladder. When they were first sent over, it wasn’t appropriate to dismiss them immediately.

Now that Gu Qingci had a plan, it was better to arrange things sooner rather than later.

Although Gu Qingci had said she simply enjoyed watching song and dance performances, agreeing to go together to watch them still left Ruan Zhi feeling somewhat uncomfortable.

The dancers and musicians, seeing that Gu Qingci had been promoted and even secured a noble title for his principal wife, were now brimming with enthusiasm, pulling out all the stops to showcase their talents. The dancers swayed seductively, every movement designed to captivate, while the musicians cast flirtatious glances, their voices dripping with sweetness.

This made Gu Qingci rather uncomfortable—this wasn’t what she wanted at all. The performances in the palace had been perfectly normal, so why were these like this?

Only one performer caught Gu Qingci’s eye.

The woman was performing a sword dance.

Watching the dance, a few phrases flashed through Gu Qingci’s mind: “Light as a startled swan, graceful as a soaring dragon!”

A dance full of strength, one that could move people—this was the style she had been looking for!

The performer was none other than Gongsun Jiuniang.

Ruan Zhi noticed Gu Qingci staring intently, her expression darkening.

After everyone had finished performing, they looked at Gu Qingci with hopeful eyes.

“You were accepted back then out of necessity, not because I wanted to take you in as concubines. Earlier, you pleaded not to be sent back, saying you would be mistreated if returned. Since you all insisted on staying, I’ll now give you two paths to choose from. The decision is yours.”

“One option is to secure a position in the mansion based on your skills—those skilled in needlework can do embroidery, those good at cooking can help in the kitchen, and you’ll receive a monthly wage according to your duties. The other option is to sign a five-year contract, making use of your talents as dancers and musicians to perform at the newly opened music and dance house. I promise you, it will be selling art, not your bodies—your safety will be guaranteed. After five years, you’ll regain your freedom, along with the silver you’ve earned at the dance house.”

Gu Qingci spoke solemnly to the group.

These women were beautiful, and if they were simply released, their safety would be at risk.

The crowd’s expressions varied.

“Master, this servant wishes to serve you.” one beauty said timidly, her voice soft but her words bold.

“No. I will never take a concubine. If any of you harbor such thoughts again, I will send you back immediately. Our music and dance house is positioned to showcase performances as an art form—something to be appreciated. After watching, the audience should feel joy, sorrow, or other emotions, and they should respect the dancers and singers, not react as you just did. Enough said—I’ll give you the night to think it over.” Gu Qingci concluded.

Her words startled the women, leaving them somewhat bewildered.

Gu Qingci dismissed them to consider their choices, then took Ruan Zhi back to their room.

“Madam, did you see that performance just now? The one with the sword dance—it was so beautiful. Did you like it?” Gu Qingci asked, tugging at Ruan Zhi’s sleeve.

She wanted to share the same beautiful things with Ruan Zhi.

“…” Ruan Zhi said nothing, only staring at Gu Qingci.

Older sister?

“Do you know that sister’s name? She could be the lead dancer, the… the principal performer of the group! We could even choreograph some story-driven dances for them, musical dramas…” As Gu Qingci’s imagination ran wild, she suddenly sensed the atmosphere shift. Meeting Ruan Zhi’s gaze, her words faltered.

“Madam, what’s… what’s wrong?” Seeing the sharpness in Ruan Zhi’s eyes, Gu Qingci hesitated, asking weakly.

“Why did you call her ‘older sister’? You can only call me that.” Ruan Zhi finally said after a pause.

Watching Gu Qingci stare at Gongsun Jiuniang had displeased her.

But she reminded herself—this was just Gu Qingci’s unique “preference” She was simply… appreciating beauty.

However, Gu Qingci now addressed her as “little sister” and “sister.”

“Sister”—that was what Gu Qingci occasionally called her when emotions were running high.

It was also how she had first addressed her.

This form of address held a special, almost secret, significance for her.

She had thought it was a unique term of endearment Gu Qingci reserved just for her.

But it turned out this person used it for others too!

In short, Ruan Zhi was furious.

Even though she had just been granted the title of Lady of Honor, she was still seething.

“……” Gu Qingci looked at Ruan Zhi, her cautious expression gradually shifting, her eyes curving into crescents.

When she had first transmigrated and called Ruan Zhi “sister” Ruan Zhi had angrily corrected her, forbidding her to use that term.

She had insisted on being called “Madam.”

So from then on, she always called her “Madam.”

Occasionally, she would slip and call her “sister” usually when she couldn’t help herself.

But she would quickly correct it, afraid Ruan Zhi would dislike it.

She never imagined Ruan Zhi had actually felt this way.

Looking at Ruan Zhi’s expression now, she found it both fierce and adorable.

Gu Qingci suddenly scooped Ruan Zhi into her arms and whispered into her ear:

“Sister, sister, I was wrong. I promise I’ll never call anyone else ‘sister’ again, I swear! I guarantee it! You’re the only one I’ll ever call ‘sister’!”

Gu Qingci’s soft, coquettish voice, repeating “sister” over and over, melted Ruan Zhi’s anger away.

All her thoughts were wiped clean, her heart pounding uncontrollably—thump, thump, thump—as she was utterly disarmed by those words.