Young Pu is famed locally for his literary talent, while travelling merchant Lang Shisan is a dashing wanderer skilled in both martial and scholarly arts. The two meet by chance at the county yamen in Zichuan, just as the magistrate’s household is plagued by ghosts. One is cultured and calm, the other bold and action‑oriented; as they investigate, their contrasting strengths complement each other and they unexpectedly solve the case. Inspired by Lang Shisan’s free‑spirited ways, Pu decides to travel alongside him.