The Han Empire control access to the ancient Chinese desert oasis of Dun Huang, but the mighty nomadic Xiongnu tribes pose a threat. The cunning Han general Ban Chao must use all his wisdom and experience to secure Dun Huang.

In the early fifth century, China gets split into 16 smaller kingdoms; a powerful Xiongnu warlord is eager to control Dun Huang; Wu Zetian becomes the first woman ever to take the dragon throne.