The Leg Fighters

The film opens with a montage that showcases various kicking techniques, establishing the martial arts world’s emphasis on precision. This prologue introduces Tan Hai-chi as a master capable of handling dangerous foes. It sets the tone for the skill and honor that fuel the story.

Tan Hai-chi faces a ground-kicking expert who tries to kill him during the early confrontation. He defeats and spares the assailant, but the man stabs Tan in the leg and continues fighting. In self-defense, Tan ends up killing him when the fight cannot be stopped.

Peng Fung, the slain fighter's brother, collects the body and swears vengeance on Tan Hai-chi. His vow marks the start of a personal vendetta that will chase Tan through the story. The threat of Peng Fung's retribution lingers over Tan's movements.

Phoenix is the privileged daughter of a wealthy single father, spoiled and rebellious. She is tasked to learn kung fu from Mo Ku-fung but despises training and often sabotages it. Her inexperience and attitude set up conflicts that drive much of the early drama.

Mo Ku-fung’s unorthodox training methods provoke tension, and he warns that he will leave for good if they can’t beat him. Phoenix and Chin push to prove themselves, while Tan Hai-chi’s looming presence hints at a future master’s arrival. The situation foreshadows a dramatic change in her training.

Mo Ku-fung recommends Tan Hai-chi as his replacement instructor. Phoenix and Chin don’t know Tan’s true identity, and in a sparring session she is no match for the formidable master. The match ends with Tan defeating Phoenix, inaugurating his role as her new teacher.

Tan imposes a strict, no-nonsense regime, pressing Phoenix to become more literate and seek wisdom as part of her training. He makes clear that true progress requires discipline and humility. Phoenix resists, but begins to see the value in his tough approach.

Phoenix’s good heart leads her to defend a young girl from a village bully, Ding Dong. She defeats him, but the act ignites a broader conflict as Ding Dong returns with his brother. Tan uses the confrontation to humble Phoenix and clearly establish him as her master.

Ding Dong and Dong Dong assault Phoenix and Chin; Tan intervenes and saves his student, then escorts her home. The incident deepens Phoenix’s respect for Tan and cements his role as her master. The threat posed by the bully faction primes the next developments.

Peng Fung breaks into Mo Ku-fung’s home and slaughters him and his wife when they refuse to reveal Tan’s whereabouts. The act demonstrates Peng Fung’s ruthless determination to eliminate his rival. It also pushes Tan into renewed, perilous secrecy.

Peng Fung eventually locates Tan after information from Ding Dong and his henchmen. He is finally ready to confront the supposed legend in earnest. The stage is set for a climactic confrontation.

Realizing that Tan Hai-chi is the real master, Phoenix sincerely agrees to become his dutiful student and bows before him. She commits to taking training seriously and leaves her defiant attitude behind, at least in spirit. The dynamic shifts from resistance to respect.

During training, Phoenix proves her improved skills by handling Ding Dong and Dong Dong in a fight without Tan’s direct intervention. She sends the bullies running and demonstrates growing confidence in her abilities. This marks a turning point in her discipline and loyalty to Tan.

Peng Fung sends Tan a challenge letter, pressuring him to prove his superiority. Tan is not confident he can win and orders Phoenix to stay out for safety, warning that the conflict could endanger them both. The tension escalates as the duel approaches.

During the fateful duel, Peng Fung nearly kills Tan with his feared 'nine bird style' technique. Phoenix disobeys her master’s order and joins the fight to defend him, fighting Peng Fung to the death. The outcome remains unresolved in the summary, but her act seals her full commitment to Tan.