Lijuan was the beautiful daughter of a wealthy family.  Her father had arranged a marriage for her with the son of a powerful man.  However, she had fallen in love with Guang, a fellow student at the university they both attended.  When she refused to marry the man her father selected, he forbade her to return to university, thus separating the lovers.  

He felt that education had sowed the seeds of rebellion in his headstrong daughter.  Guang was heartbroken.  He knew the only way to earn the respect of Lijuan's father was to become successful and wealthy.  So he set off for Shanghai to seek his fortune.  There, he met a shrewd and crafty businessman who was to become his mentor.  Together they built a massive financial empire.  Yet despite the long hours and hard work, he never forgot his love.  While he was away, Lijuan kept his memory alive by lighting lotus lamps to illuminate his path back to her, symbolizing the love that forever burned in her heart for him.  Guang eventually returned in triumph and claimed her for his wife.