The Husband’s Scheme

“Who will drink this cup – you or your wife?” An Jin did not hesitate, stepping forward to take the wine cup and about to drink. I rushed to stop him. “Your Majesty, must it be drunk?” The Emperor smiled even more kindly. “It must be drunk.” “Your Majesty,” I said, holding the cup with both hands, burning with anger. “I often hear people praise Your Majesty’s benevolence, calling you a rare enlightened ruler. Why must you make things difficult for us?” The Emperor of Qi was momentarily stunned, then said: “How is this making things difficult? This is clearly a kind marriage arrangement. An Jin has defied the decree and must be punished.” “Isn’t it just remarrying? We’ll comply, we’ll comply, okay?” I gritted my teeth, my eyes hot and painful. “A Yao,” An Jin pulled me close. “I will never marry anyone else.” I was on the verge of tears. An Jin was usually so clever, why couldn’t he see a way out? Agreeing first and then finding a solution would be better than death… He raised the wine cup again to drink. I quickly stopped him, saying in grief: “Fine! Your Majesty, since you won’t leave us a way out, we’ll die together in this hall! And what you’ve done today cannot silence public opinion…”