In a turbulent period of early 20th century China, a skilled and enigmatic magician named Zhang Xian takes center stage with his spellbinding performances. As he dazzles the public with his illusions, his true intention is revealed when he crosses paths with ruthless warlord Lei Bully, who is known for his oppressive control over the region. Lei has kidnapped a collection of young women to be his concubines, among them Liu Yin, Zhang Xian's former lover. Zhang Xian's quest for her liberation becomes intertwined with his magical prowess, setting the stage for a series of mind games and subterfuge.

As Zhang Xian delves deeper into the world of deception to free Liu Yin, his acts of magic become increasingly daring, drawing the attention of Lei and his closest advisors. Complications arise as the intricate layers of illusions and reality blur, leading to an unpredictable game of cat and mouse. Meanwhile, tensions escalate among politicians, revolutionaries, and local people whose fates are inadvertently linked to this high-stakes struggle. Zhang Xian's ultimate goal–to expose Lei’s tyranny and win back Liu Yin’s freedom–is fraught with peril as he challenges the delicate balance of power with his remarkable sleight of hand, never fully revealing his true mastery until the climax.