Semi-historical adventure novel for ages 10-14. The past collides with the present when a theft occurs at the Shanghai International School. Three friends exploring an abandoned chapel are horrified to discover their old friend and mentor has been hurt, and the key to the Stronghold of the White Emperor has been stolen. They will have to follow in the footsteps of a 1941 expedition to the Stronghold, to try to prevent the thief from stealing the Brazen Head, an ancient bronze statue that can predict the future. But they face dangers on the way, and must be as clever and as skilled as the best of the White Emperor's court to get to the prize in time.