The Literary Champion of the Tang Dynasty

Su Jin, courtesy name Huaiyu. At 28, he is a PhD in classical Chinese literature from one of the country's top universities, specializing in Tang and Song literature and textual studies, with additional expertise in the history of ancient Chinese technology and agriculture. He can recite the annotated commentaries on the Thirteen Classics from memory, is well versed in the institutions and regulations of every dynasty, and has a systematic theoretical understanding of ancient salt production, irrigation, and agricultural techniques. Steady and meticulous by nature, he has both a scholar's integrity and a practical, flexible streak. A poor-born scholar draws on knowledge from both past and present to begin with the prefectural and county examinations, eventually earning the top score in the imperial examinations. He alleviates drought and famine by improving agricultural techniques, builds a fortune with salt-making technology, and by a twist of fate saves a princess. Winning the emperor's favor, he becomes the princess's husband and ultimately establishes himself at court during the Zhenguan era, balancing personal ambition with devotion to his country and people.