Ash Is Purest White

In 2001, the story begins in Datong, a once-prosperous mining city now facing economic hardships due to declining coal prices. The bleak atmosphere affects the dreams and ambitions of its inhabitants, setting the stage for the events that will unfold.

Qiao, portrayed by Tao Zhao, and her boyfriend Bin, played by Fan Liao, enjoy a life of power and influence in their community. However, their seemingly stable relationship is shadowed by the surrounding dangers and uncertainties of the mining city.

The couple's world is jolted when Bin's boss is brutally murdered, an act that signifies an impending power struggle. This event prompts Qiao to suggest that they escape their dangerous lifestyle together through marriage.

In a shocking turn of events, Bin and his driver are assaulted by a group of motorcyclists seeking to usurp Bin's authority. Qiao intervenes, seizing Bin's handgun and firing warning shots into the air, effectively scaring off the attackers.

Following her act of defiance, the police confront Qiao regarding the unregistered gun. Rather than betraying Bin, she claims ownership of the weapon, resulting in her sentencing to five years in prison for illegal possession.

Upon her release from prison, Qiao is determined to reconnect with Bin, only to find that he has moved on with his life. Her hopes are dashed when she meets Bin's new girlfriend instead of him.

With no resources and a sense of urgency, Qiao resorts to conning strangers for food and necessities. She takes a motorcycle taxi in search of Bin, but the driver's inappropriate advances lead her to steal his bike instead.

Arriving at a power plant, Qiao reports the driver's misconduct to a police officer and demands that Bin be contacted. This act of desperation ultimately leads Bin to meet her in a tense confrontation.

In a hotel, Qiao confronts Bin, who claims to have changed and can’t return to Datong due to his tarnished reputation. The emotional meeting escalates as Qiao reminds him of her sacrifices, leading her to decide that their relationship must end.

After their separation, Qiao boards a train, briefly encountering a stranger who claims to be starting a UFO-hunting venture. The encounter becomes unraveling and she disembarks just as she catches sight of a mysterious object in the sky.

Fast forward to 2017, Qiao receives a call from Bin, setting the stage for a reunion. However, she finds him in a wheelchair, a stark reminder of the toll that time and circumstances have taken on him.

Taking Bin back to their former gambling parlor, Qiao is met with the old acquaintances from Bin's past. Despite the warm welcome, Bin’s volatile nature emerges, revealing the anger and bitterness that have consumed him.

As Qiao learns that Bin suffered a stroke due to excessive drinking, the reality of his condition hits hard. She seeks medical help to assist him in his recovery, showing her unwavering commitment to supporting him.

After Bin regains his ability to walk, he unexpectedly vanishes from Qiao's life, leaving her with only a brief voicemail. This sudden disappearance creates a chasm between them, amplifying the emotional turmoil.

Determined to find him, Qiao rushes to track Bin down following his abrupt departure. Yet his elusive nature leaves her wandering, symbolizing a divide in their once unbreakable bond.