Li Zhongwen, a commoner, seeks an audience with the powerful minister to present a strategy for saving the country. Hongxiu, a perceptive woman in the minister's residence, recognizes a hero and joins Li Zhongwen. The two flee to Taiyuan to seek refuge. At an inn along the way, they encounter Qiu Ran Ke, a bold and unconventional man with a long, curly beard. Hongxiu's quick wit leads her to become his sworn sister, and the three find themselves united in spirit. Qiu Ran Ke has great ambitions and once dreamed of competing for dominion over the realm. He gives all his wealth and treasures to Li Zhongwen to support him in assisting the true sovereign and achieving great deeds, then travels overseas with his wife.