Meng Xiaoliu was born in a crowded Beijing courtyard in the outer city during the Republic of China era. Growing up poor, he learned early how people’s fortunes could change. His father, Meng An, made a living pulling rickshaws, but an unexpected stroke of luck landed him a job as a house steward. Xiaoliu, meanwhile, was placed as an apprentice at a pawnshop, and his life changed beyond recognition. Once there, Meng Xiaoliu thrived, witnessing every kind of deal, large and small. Just as everything seemed to be going his way, fate suddenly took a turn...
