The Legend of Hua Mulan
There was a girl named Hua Mulan in the Northern Wei Dynasty. She not only liked horseback riding and archery, but also learned art of war from her father as a child.So that Hua Mulan was expert at martial arts as she grew up.
Because the ethnic Rouran from the north kept harassing the south at that time, the wars often broke out at the border. Therefore, the people led a miserable life, who had lost their jobs and homes due to the wars.
One day, Hua Mulan's father was suddenly ordered by the government to join the army on the battle field.
Hua Mulan was quite worried because she knew that her father was too old to go to the front line. Besides, he was inpoor health. And the younger brother was too young to be a soldier. So what can she do?
At that night, Hua Mulan was unable to fall asleep as she tossed and turned in bed. She sighed and hoped that if only she had an older brother!
Suddenly, an idea came to her. Hua Mulan thought if she disguised herself as a man, and the problem could be solved. Therefore, she decided to join the army instead of her father.
Early the next day, she went to the fair where she chose a horse and bought the necessities.
Hua Mulan's parents did not want their daughter to the battlefield, but they had no choice. When her parents said goodbye to her reluctantly, they burst into tears.
After Hua Mulan arrived at the army camp, she trained hard with her fellow soldiers. But Hua Mulan did not dare to take off clothes when she fell asleep at night. Because she was in fear of her secret being dis-covered by others.
In this way,no one found out that Hua Mulan was a female in the army camp.
Hua Mulan was very brave and bright. As she led the troops and won the battles for numerous times, her companions admired her ability.
The war lasted for twelve years unexpectedly. At last, the war was over and Hua Mulan made a triumphant return.
The emperor awarded her with piles of gold as well as a promotion.However, Ha Mulan shook her head and refused.
She said with a smile,"Thank you for your kindness, but my greatest wish is to live with my family as soon as Icome back to my hometown."Hearing the words, the emperor agreed with her.
When hearing that Hua Mulan was coming back, all the family members were very happy. Her parents left home early in the morning and went to outside the city, holding each other up.
What's more, her young brother prepared a hearty meal at home.
When Hua Mulan went back home,she took off her military uniform, put on her former clothes and dressed beautifully as a girl.
The companions were so surprised at the sight of her female dress that they could not say a word. When they realized that the old friend turned out to be a girl, they admired her even more than before.