In the turbulent years of the late Qing and early Republic, three young members of the Tian family from Dengzhou on the coast each pursued their own ideals. Tian Jiātang fought honorably for his country and its people; Tian Jiale sought freedom and remained loyal to those he loved; and Tian Jiacai was clever, brave, and quick-witted. Each pursued his own ideals, while the three joined forces to unite their family. Their stories also include romances of their own. The tale brings together wuxia, gunfights, and naval battles, while incorporating the personal values of several historical figures.