In China in 1911, all girls of good families had their feet bound.

Young Ailin, Third Sister in the Tao family, having witnessed her two older sisters suffering this tortuous practice, refuses to follow the ancient tradition.

As a result the family of her intended husband breaks their marriage agreement and Ailin finds that her own family, shamed by her decision, will no longer support her.

When her father dies, her cruel uncle says she must earn her keep either as a concubine or as a nun.

But Ailin has an indomitable spirit and bold convictions and is determined to forge her own destiny.