This drama tells the origin stories of two folk deities. Zhong Zhengnan, a scholar from Zhongnan Mountain, was outstanding in learning, yet repeatedly faced secular prejudice due to his ugly appearance. In the imperial examination hall, he confronted greedy demons and monsters. Upon the golden imperial throne, he refused to curry favor with the powerful, sacrificing his life to uphold the Dao, and was decreed to become Zhong Kui, the vanquisher of demons and subduer of evil spirits. Afterward, the Dragon King of Jing River defied heavenly laws and caused a disaster, leading to Emperor Taizong's adventures in the underworld. Lu Zhidao, an upright official of the Song dynasty, was iron-faced in rendering verdicts, fearless of tyrannical power, died unjustly for upholding justice, and transformed into Judge Lu through the collective wishes and strength of the populace. With the unyielding backbone of mortals, the two cut down evil spirits, judged grievances, and guarded the living beings of the world.