Set against the backdrop of institutional reforms among government offices during the Jiajing era of the Ming dynasty, this story explores the clash between old and new departments, drawing on some of the author's personal experiences. When the low-ranking clerk Li Ruichu first arrives at the old offices of the Ministry of Revenue, his exceptional ability earns him a loan to the new department to sort through years of backlogged accounts. But this makes his superior, Liu Yue, jealous, and he begins to make things difficult for Li. In the ice-cold old offices, Li works day and night, risking his life with every move. At last, he wins the favor of a vice minister, only to be caught in the deadly whirlpool of a struggle between old and new powers.
It is truly difficult to commit sins that haunt the present and earn merits that endure for a thousand years,
but some people really can, for their own selfish desires,
commit sins that haunt the present and bring disaster for a thousand years!
May the road ahead be smooth for each and every one of you,
and may your pursuits be met with fairness.
May effort bring results, and every sacrifice be rewarded.
You need not burn yourself out to illuminate the world.
May your ideals never fade, and may your life be complete.
