Fang Shiyu, former Ming loyalist Hong Xiguan, and down-on-his-luck scholar Hu Huiqian swear brotherhood under triad boss Cai Jiuyi to protect the weak in 19th-century Guangzhou. Their justice crusade angers local boss Lei Laohu. Lei’s rebellious daughter Lei Tingting falls for Fang after he defeats her in contest, uniting Lei and corrupt magistrate against the triad. Despite warnings, Fang races to save Cai from an ambush, fracturing brotherly bonds and walking into deadly traps. Only Lei Tingting’s sacrifice spares him. Betrayed by allies and lovers, Fang learns that the martial world is far darker than youthful dreams.