Reminds me of the female character, Taizu, from "The Paladin" (1988) by C.J. Cherryh. Taizu survives (despite a gruesome sword cut to her face) her village being destroyed by the evil tyrant Lord Ghita and is determined to get revenge by becoming a swordswoman. She seeks out Skoka, a famous swordmaster of old, who has been living as a recluce on a mountaintop and is unwilling to teach her (or anyone else). The character interactions are hilarious. And soon, Shoka and Taizu become the stuff of legends. cheers : )

 Don't sweat the petty things, and don't pet the sweaty things!  ; )