In 1983, Han Zhenshan, a hunter from Heishi Village, loses his wife, leaving him to raise his twin son and daughter alongside his three younger sisters-in-law. His own elder brother and sister-in-law try to seize the younger women to pay off gambling debts. As Han Zhenshan protects his family, his blood activates a tiger-headed jade thumb ring passed down by his ancestors, awakening his Mountain Lord destiny. He gains the ability to form contracts with mountain beasts and borrow their powers. Using a dog's keen nose, a marten's climbing skills, an eagle's eyesight, a bear's strength, and a tiger's might, he ventures into the mountains to gather goods. He stands against local bully Luo Wankui and unscrupulous merchant Qian Youfu, builds mountain roads, and establishes a collection depot. Along the way, he falls in love with Qin Qiuyan, the owner of a mountain-goods shop. In the end, he leads his family and neighbors out of poverty and toward prosperity, achieving redemption for his family.