Late 19th-century China is a tumultuous land beset by warring enemies--both from beyond its borders and within the fabled walls of the Forbidden City. When her son and adopted son each succumb to early deaths, Orchid reluctantly assumes greater power. While foreign nations like Japan, Russia, France, and England fight for their share of the Chinese spoils, Orchid sees her nation divide into opposing factions. Struggling against sexism and insurgence, only she can keep China from tearing itself apart.