The series follow the adventures of Ho-nam (Andy) Chan in his triad life, from being a mere 49er (the lowest position in a gang) to being promoted to a Red Pole (enforcer) within three years, to finally being the Dragon Head (leader) of the Hung Hing Gang. It explores the deep bonds of loyalty and brotherhood in underground Chinese society, and has since been a trademark in defining Hong Kong culture. In 2012, marking the 20th anniversary of this manhua, the main character Ho-nam Chan ranked 15 out of the 24 Classic Comic Characters of Hong Kong in the Hong Kong Avenue of Comic Stars and a (shirtless) monument of him is up in Kowloon Park.