Shing finds himself facing sudden dangers on two fronts, from both European and Chinese. On the European side, the mysterious 'red haired one-eared man' has witnessed him with the white woman's body, implicating Shing in her murder. On the Chinese side, Shing's status as headman becomes increasingly complicated when Lei's intentions are made very clear.

Lei strikes a deal with Shing to keep the secret gold seam operation running. Meanwhile, Tom is dragged into prison and pinned for Annie's murder.