The protagonist's use of modern scientific knowledge was ridiculed as "wonderful skills" in ancient times → proved through experiments (improving papermaking/purifying gunpowder/revolution of farm tools) → shocked the government and the public, gained the appreciation of the emperor, and slapped conservative ministers in the face.
The protagonist is a son-in-law/down-and-out scholar who is looked down upon by everyone → he shows his true talents and knowledge on important occasions (imperial examinations / banquets / military crises) → he crushes his former mockers, his status jumps three levels, and he finally becomes powerful.
