[Imperial Examinations + Political Intrigue + Battles of Wits + Ensemble Cast Power Fantasy]
A doctoral student in science wakes up in the body of an eight-year-old boy in the Great Zhou dynasty.
Xu Zhiyuan has his heart set on the imperial exams and becoming the top scholar. Just after he takes first place in the provincial examination, the treacherous minister Zhou Shen accuses him of plotting rebellion, has him sent to the capital for execution, and cuts off his path to the exams.
Armed with extraordinary cunning and a flawless eye for strategy, Xu Zhiyuan survives ambushes, clears his name, and secures his standing. He rallies the scholars, allies with upright officials, and maneuvers for power, then faces down the corrupt at a joint hearing of the Three Judicial Offices, turning the tables at every step.
From condemned prisoner to prodigy of the imperial exams and pillar of the court, he takes on corrupt ministers, cleans up the examination system, claims the top scholar’s title, and rises to shape a prosperous age.
