The film tells the story of the interesting battle of wits between Emperor Qianlong (Liu Yong) and Imperial Censor Liu Yong (Li Kun), a member of the Imperial Academy. Liu is cunning and eloquent, and often stumps Qianlong. Qianlong is angry and pretends to be sleepy when the painter is painting his portrait. He asks Liu to wear the dragon robe for him and let the painter paint. Then he deliberately makes things difficult for Liu, accusing him of seeking personal gain. Liu is quick-witted and speaks wittily, which once again leaves Qianlong speechless.