Tang Dynasty, 637 AD. When dragons were worshipped and some women became warriors...

Xiu has never left her village and can barely make dumplings, yet she finds herself in a secret training academy on the slopes of the Jade Mountain. Put through rigorous training, Xiu must become a warrior, but her movements are clumsy and she is plagued by self-doubts.

While Xiu flounders, Qiao seems to do everything with effortless grace. Xiu grows jealous until she is propelled to act in a way she will later regret.
As the girls around her develop talents, Xiu searches for hers. Though she is not sure how, the red panda holds the key to developing her skills as a warrior.

As an army ammasses to invade the Imperial city of Chang'An, Xiu and her elite corps of women warriors must ride into battle. Xiu must overcome her jealousy, face her fears and discover her unique strengths, or her enemy will bring the mighty Tang Dynasty to ruin.

A compelling story of friendship and courage in a lush historical setting with a splash of the speculative.