A Record of Hidden Blades in the Halls of Power

After leaving the military, former reconnaissance soldier Gu Yan relies on his exceptional adaptability and insight into human nature to work his way up from a temporary job at the neighborhood office, carefully navigating the modern city’s political landscape. He must contend with the schemes of his hypocritical superior, Zhao Yuanzheng, who acts benevolent to his face while plotting behind his back, while also proving his talent for governance during key events such as public welfare projects and economic reform. His life is further entangled with several romances, including those with the remarkable businesswoman Su Wan, the war correspondent Liu Shutong, and the master physician of traditional Chinese medicine Qin Zhao. In the end, a disciplinary crackdown exposes Zhao Yuanzheng’s hypocritical mask, allowing Gu Yan to establish honest governance in the region and find what he has been seeking within himself.