Ethan Stone, a modern man, awakens as a playboy in an ancient dynasty just as his family is ruined. He uses his wits to survive, impressing at a poetry gathering and heading to the barren Silver Prefecture. There, he gathers capable allies, builds wealth and support, and outsmarts noble enemies. Rising from nothing, he becomes a warlord of the northwest and wins the hearts of two women, including Tessa Carter. This is a legend of reversal from wastrel to ruler.