But she was unlucky enough to have fallen into the hands of that scoundrel.   She has suffered a great deal.  But that is now in the past.  She owes you so much that we would be pleased to entrust her to you as your wife.  Then we who love her will be able to rest at ease.  Do you not agree with the proverb that says: ‘A man of good will would not leave a deed of merit unfinished.’”

For a moment Liu Yi looked around, then laughed loudly.  “I would never have expected that the prince of Qian Tang would have such an unhealthy idea.  I have heard that when you flew across the nine continents your anger could make fire mountains quake; and I have seen you fight for your niece in such an uncomparably brave manner.  You dared to risk death to do justice and would give your life for those you love.  Those are the characteristics of true greatness.  Yet, at this very moment, you are trying to coerce me into doing what you wish, in defiance of all honor.  I can hardly believe it.”

Hesitating a little, Liu Yi continued, “Suppose we two had met on a seething sea or in dark mountains, the mist and rain around your body, your fins and beard flying.  Had you threatened me with death, then I would have taken you merely for a beast and not counted it against you.  But now, dressed in human garb, talking of manners, and showing a deep understanding of human relationships and ways of life, you seemed to have a finer sense of right and wrong than many gallants on the earth, not to mention any beast in the jungle or creature of the deep.

“Yet you are trying to force your will upon me by your strength and temper, while pretending to be drunk.  Well, your anger is nothing to me even though I am smaller than any one of your scales.  I do hope that you will change your mind.”

At the end of Liu Yi’s words, the prince humbly apologized.  “Your reprimand is quite correct, my manners were poor despite my palace upbringing.  I beg your pardon for my meaningless and offensive remarks.  Please do not let this ruin our friendship.”

That evening, they feasted together again, as merry as ever, and became great friends.

One more day passed.  The next day the queen held another party for Liu Yi in the Hall of Hidden Light.  The queen said to him, “My daughter owes you so much that we can never thank you enough.  It is a great pity that we have to say goodbye so soon.”