丈人何出此言啊？
“Don't say that, Father-in-law.”
THE DIALOGUE REEL
臣未奉诏而返 自知其罪 还请陛下责罚
“I returned without a command. I know I'm guilty. Please punish me, Your Majesty.”
丈人 何出此言 啊？
“Don't say that, Father-in-law.”
您星夜归驰 拳拳爱女之心 可昭日月啊 孤心甚慰
“You traveled day and night. Your love for your daughter is as clear as day. I… I'm quite gratified.”
“You don't need to be so terrified; I understand your intentions and will not punish you.”
Even when related by marriage, courtiers must tread carefully around absolute imperial authority, while wise rulers use warm rhetoric to secure loyalty.
LEARNING CHUNKS & PARTICLES
why do you say this? / what makes you say so?
A classical, highly polite rhetorical question used to express surprise at another's dramatic statement.
father-in-law (classical usage)
In historical and literary Chinese contexts, this term refers respectfully to one's wife's father.
Softens the rhetorical question and adds a touch of warm, conversational familiarity.
