Song of the Stars
Summary: Born Giftless in a family of renown mages, Leianna Yen chooses to follow the ancient path of the Shang warriors, taking up the Shang name of Starsong. A life of hardship follows her decision, particularly when she discovers her own lack of talent in the fighting arts. Through patience, perseverance, and friendship, she resolves to meet her goal, unaware that she is about to be tangled in a web riddled with magic and the power of the gods. For it seems that Leianna Starsong is beloved of destiny, fated to break ancient barriers and carve a niche into history.
Chapter I
Dawn.
Leianna Starsong allowed a ghostly sigh to float past her locked lips. Almost over. Fifteen more minutes. She willed herself not to give into the exhaustion consuming her, feeling beads of sweat slide down her skin. Shang was a tough life.
Why? The twelve-year-old student asked herself. Why am I doing this? Her slender fingers rolled themselves into fists as she bent her leg gingerly, gathering momentum for a roundhouse kick. Leianna winced, feeling her nails, edges jagged from biting, cut into the tender flesh of her palms. Why?
Grimacing, the girl kicked, her leg combating the friction of the very oxygen. I'm doing this because I want to! She chided herself, resolving to stamp out the seeds of self-pity before they could blossom. I'm doing this so when that someone disrespects me, I won't lose any self worth. I'm doing this to protect myself from the dangers out there. Leianna grinned triumphantly, feeling the kick land perfectly. Like an eagle gliding down to her nest, her instructor had said. Despite its difficulties and dangers, almost nothing could give as much in return as Shang.
Liam Ironarm, one of Leianna's teachers, entered the room through the sliding cedar doors. "Well done, Shen Starsong," he declared. "You may leave."
Leianna bowed rather hastily and wasted no time in departing.
Disclaimer: All familiar characters, locations, etc. belong to Tamora Pierce. The plot, as well any of the above that are unrecognizable, are mine.