Triennially, the 'Scholar Village' updates its registry—glory to the top examination clan. Caleb Grant, the elder's favored son, has three gifted sons. An affair between Caleb Grant's wife and his brother Vince Grant is exposed. The elder, guilt-ridden, grants Caleb Grant clan rule and a jade relic. Vince Grant, watching, is consumed by jealousy—terrified of exposure, hungry for power. A silent war brews.