Mulan

Long ago, a girl named Mulan lived with her mother and father in a small village in the land of Wei in Northern China.

One morning, after returning from her daily visit to the market, Mulan saw a crowd of people outside the village meeting place.

The people were reading a poster that said:

Official Decree from the Emperor. We are being attacked from the south. The emperor orders one male from each household to report for military duty at dawn. No exceptions!

Mulan raced home to her father.

“You cannot go, father!” Mulan cried. “Your wounds have not healed from the last war.”

“Daughter,” Father replied. “Would you have me dishonor our family? I must go.”

“No. I must,” Mulan said bravely.

Father laughed. “No woman fights in the army.”

“You know I ride better than most of the boys in the village,” Mulan insisted.

“I’m proud of your skills,” Father said, patting her on the head. “But don’t be silly.”