Summary
Highlights
Gu Zhengyan, a modern billionaire, transmigrates into the body of a poor scholar in ancient times. He finds himself reluctantly participating in a poetry competition, where he uses his modern knowledge to impress the judges and win. His prize: a marriage to Luo Shuyao, the Marquis's daughter, who is using the competition to escape an unwanted arranged marriage with the Duke of Wei’s son. Gu Zhengyan is initially hesitant but accepts, recognizing it as a chance for survival.
Gu Zhengyan and Luo Shuyao settle into his humble village home. Luo Shuyao, initially a spoiled noblewoman, struggles with the simple life but is touched by Gu Zhengyan's sincerity and care. Gu Zhengyan begins to leverage his modern knowledge for financial gain, starting with selling popular storybooks (picture books) and unique paintings of his wife in a new, realistic style. He introduces innovative business models, like profit-sharing with booksellers, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit.
Gu Zhengyan's business ventures thrive, bringing wealth and improved living conditions to his village. He introduces modern concepts like stir-frying to the owner of Four Seasons Restaurant, gaining a 40% profit share. He also develops soap and shampoo, which Luo Shuyao shares with the 9th Princess, Kang Kwai, in the capital. The popularity of these products creates a stir in the palace, further expanding Gu Zhengyan's influence.
Gu Zhengyan passes the county exams with flying colors, gaining recognition. He and Luo Shuyao are invited to represent White Horse Academy in the Four Courts' Artistic Talent Competition. Luo Shuyao's brother, initially hostile, visits them and is impressed by Gu Zhengyan's strategic mind when he analyzes an impending northern invasion and proposes a counter-strategy. Luo Shuyao manipulates her father's fears about her illness to return to Yongping and support Gu Zhengyan.
Despite aristocratic disapproval and the skepticism of some students within White Horse Academy, Gu Zhengyan and Luo Shuyao prepare for the competition. Gu Zhengyan's unique insights and unwavering confidence in his wife's talents motivate the remaining students and the headmaster. Their bold participation as a duo in eight diverse categories (scripture, piano, math, strategy, calligraphy, poetry, and painting) becomes a talking point.
Gu Zhengyan and Luo Shuyao systematically win all eight categories in the Four Courts' Competition, showcasing their extraordinary talents and modern knowledge. Luo Shuyao's poetic prowess and realistic painting style astound the judges and audience. Their unified triumph brings honor to White Horse Academy and forces Luo Shuyao's father, the Marquis, to finally accept Gu Zhengyan as a worthy husband, culminating in a beautiful, heartfelt wedding ceremony.