The story takes place in the late Sui and Tang dynasties, when Yang Guang, the second son of the Sui Wendi Emperor, attempts to usurp the throne. In order to avoid persecution, Li Yuan, an important official of the imperial court, decides to leave his family and return to his hometown to live out his life in peace and prosperity. Li Yuan's second son, Li Shimin, is in love with Changsun Wurong and is reluctant to leave his beloved, but Wurong opposes his decision.

On his way back to his hometown, Li Shimin is attacked by Liao Wuji, an assassin sent by Yang Guang, and his life hangs in the balance as he is unarmed. At this juncture, Qin Qiong, who happened to be passing by, saved Li Shimin's life by pulling out his sword, and the two of them formed an inseparable bond. Afterwards, Li Shimin meets other heroes such as Xu Maogong, Yuchigong and Cheng Biajin. With their help, will Li Shimin be able to overthrow Yang Guang's rule?

(Source: Douban)