Then the Emperor did something amazing. He bowed to Mulan. Stunned, everyone in the plaza followed the Emperor's example.

The Emperor gave Mulan his pendant, as well as Shan-Yu's sword. Then Shang bid her an awkward good-bye.

"The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all," the Emperor said to Shang as Mulan rode away. Shang looked puzzled. "You don't meet a girl like that every dynasty," the Emperor said pointedly.

At home, Mulan handed her father the Emperor's gifts.

"The greatest gift and honor is having you for a daughter," Fa Zhou said, embracing her. "I've missed you so."

Fa Li and Grandmother Fa watched from a distance.

"Excuse me," said a voice behind them. "Does Fa Mulan live here?" It was Shang. The two women directed him toward Mulan.

To the delight of her entire family, Mulan invited Shang to stay for dinner. Meanwhile, in the family temple, the First Ancestor agreed that Mushu had succeeded in his mission, and the little dragon was reinstated as a Family Guardian.