In the 1930s in Foshan, Guangdong, martial arts schools are in abundance, with the city known across China for its wealth of talent in the fighting arts. Amid this backdrop lives a quietly prosperous and unassuming Wing Chun master, widely regarded as the most skilled fighter in the city, though he chooses to live a low-profile life and avoids taking students. His peaceful existence is deeply rooted in his family life and his belief in practicing martial arts for its artistry and moral values, rather than for glory or financial gain.

However, the master's world is turned upside down when the Japanese invasion of 1937 reaches Foshan, drastically changing the fabric of life in the city. The occupation forces not only destroy the economy but also dismantle the societal structures that allowed martial arts to flourish. Facing a critical turning point, he must navigate the challenges of life under occupation while protecting his values and the people he cares about. This period of turmoil forces him into a position where he must make difficult decisions between staying true to his principles and adapting to the harsh realities of a war-torn land.