Through a series of misadventures, Wei manages to make his way from Yangzhou to Beijing, the seat of the Qing government, where he accidentally bumbles into a fateful encounter with the young Kangxi Emperor.

By hook or by crook, but also through a genuine concern and fierce loyalty towards Kangxi, Wei finds himself in the greatest of confidences and a complicated friendship with one of the most eminent monarchs in Chinese history.

The plot follows Wei on a rags-to-riches journey as he becomes embroiled in political and court intrigues, helping Kangxi overcome his enemies, and accomplishing amazing achievements.

Afterwards, plagued by loss and guilt, Kangxi took a long walk along the Great Wall, asking Heaven for guidance — only to be happily surprised by the appearance of Wei, who did not die.

In 2002, Hong Kong's Television Broadcasts Limited (International) released The Duke of Mount Deer in a 24-disc VCD set with a total of 48 episodes, each about 35 minutes long.