Zhao Peng, a young silversmith at the government silver workshop in Qujing Prefecture, travels all the way to Guangxi to mourn his brother, who fell in battle. His courage and talent catch the eye of Hua Qianzhang, governor of five southern provinces. Zhao becomes the governor's son-in-law, marrying his daughter Hua Rong. He later takes command of the Humen Fortress and rises to the rank of lieutenant general. He also takes as his concubine Liang Huiru, daughter of the Guangdong luminary Liang Menghong. Even after striking it rich, Zhao never forgets his hometown. He sends money back and builds stone bridges over the river along his escape route and other waterways, bridges that have stood for nearly a century. He also buys grain to relieve famine and provides free food to disaster victims, earning a place in local history.
