The film tells the story of the interesting battle of wits between Emperor Qianlong (Liu Yong) and Imperial Academy Grand Secretary and Left Censor Liu Yong (Li Kun). Liu is cunning and eloquent, often stumping 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 the painter to draw, and then deliberately makes things difficult for him, accusing Liu of seeking personal gain. Liu is quick-witted and speaks wittily, once again leaving Qianlong speechless.