In 2003, newly graduated college students Lu Siyuan and Chen Kai start their government careers. Lu Siyuan keeps an engraved ruler given by his father and stays true to his principles. Chen Kai believes in flexible favors and gradually lets his guard down. Over twenty-three years, Lu Siyuan repeatedly turns down banquets, gifts and improper requests, remains honest, and becomes a provincial outstanding cadre. Chen Kai crosses the line with repeated excuses of “just this once” and is eventually investigated for disciplinary violations. The younger generation Lu Xiaohe carries on the family tradition, upholds integrity, and passes down this clean family ethos.
