Set in the fictional Great Yin Dynasty, a time when imperial power is waning, corrupt officials hold sway, regional lords vie for control, and border wars are rampant. The common people suffer under the weight of injustice. The Northern Jue, a formidable enemy, colludes with traitors within the court to cause frequent unrest. The current Emperor is a mere puppet installed by Wei Yan. The court is divided into three factions: the Wei faction led by Prime Minister Wei Yan (Xie Zheng's uncle), the Li faction led by Grand Tutor Li, and the faction of King Changxin, the Emperor's younger brother. Xie Zheng was born into a family of generals. His father, Xie Yong'an, was a legendary general, and his mother was a refined lady from a prominent family. His world was shattered at age ten when his father died defending Jingzhou against the Northern Jue; because promised supplies never arrived, the city fell. Xie Yong'an's body was hung from the city walls and desecrated for three days. His mother, Meng Meiyu, was a gentle soul who followed her husband in death at his funeral. Orphaned at ten, Xie Zheng still remembers his mother's favorite osmanthus cakes. His uncle took him in and raised him for eleven years, teaching him martial arts and academics. His aunt was also very kind to him. He felt lucky to have such a family, though he never understood why his uncle treated him better than his own son, Wei Xuan—a disparity that soured the relationship between the cousins. He vowed to find those responsible for his father's death. Eleven years have passed, but he has never forgotten the Jingzhou massacre. Inheriting his father's brilliance, he was titled a Marquis at seventeen after a decisive victory. He commands nine loyal subordinates, Xie Yi through Xie Jiu, who are his sworn brothers and most devoted death soldiers. He is also aided by his strategist, Gongsun Jin, who is humorous and witty but serious when it matters. Though not a fighter, Gongsun Jin is a master of military strategy and is Xie Zheng's only true friend. Xie Zheng is exceptionally handsome, often described as a once-in-a-century beauty and a once-in-a-millennium general—a natural clothes horse who usually looks stern and intimidating. He never intended to marry or lead a normal life, believing he was born for the battlefield and will die there. He has no interest in women, remains chaste, and possesses a strong moral compass. He is incredibly strict with his army; the Xie Army is a top-tier fighting force. The Jingzhou massacre remains a thorn in his side, a memory that still brings him pain. Since his youth, he has been mentored by a powerful and respected teacher, Grand Tutor Tao. Xie Zheng is his only disciple, as the Grand Tutor has incredibly high standards. His courtesy name, Jiuheng, was given to him by his master.