Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Wang Ning An reveals that the Qian family instigated slander against Ou Yang Xiu, leading to unexpected support from court officials who vow to defend him despite their past grievances. Wang Ning An understands that the situation is complex, as Ou Yang Xiu must maintain a saintly image to reform Confucianism, unlike Zhu Xi, who could afford to be hypocritical. As rumors about Ou Yang Xiu spread, Wang Ning An decides to prioritize clearing the old master's name over securing the chief examiner position, recognizing the potential threat to their reform plans. Despite the heavy rumors, Wang Ning An's students display confidence and ambition, inspiring him and Ou Yang Xiu. They learn that the slander stems from a risqué poem attributed to Ou Yang Xiu, which he denies writing. Determined to uncover the truth, Wang Ning An leads an investigation that ultimately traces the poem's origins to a bookstore, where it was printed and distributed maliciously.

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