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Hong's mother, Brave Orchid, tells her about her no name aunt. Her Aunt gave birth to her child and was found dead in a well the next day.
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In chapter 2, Hong's mother tells her a story of Fa Mulan, the great woman warrior. Her mother tells her about Mulan's journey of training, battles, and travels.
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In this chapter, Kingston tells her readers about her mother past life. Brave Orchid was a strong doctor, midwife, and a shaman who banishes evil spirits.
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Brave Orchid's sister, Moon Orchid, comes to America. Brave Orchid talks to Moon Orchid about visiting her husband, who now has a new marriage life. He refuses to meet her and says that Moon Orchid is not fit in this country.
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Kingston tells her readers about her child hood. Kingston felt different living in America and being Chinese - American and at how little she talked. At the end of the novel, Kingston tells her readers a story of Ts'ai Yen.
