The protagonist experiences a powerful mix of emotions upon learning about her arranged marriage to Wen Fu. On one hand, she feels elated, as if she has won a significant prize, suggesting a sense of hope or potential happiness. However, this feeling is sharply contrasted by the anxiety and fear that comes with the realization that she is entrapped in a situation she cannot control, likening it to the dread of facing a severe consequence.
This duality reflects the complexity of her circumstances, capturing the excitement of new beginnings while simultaneously expressing the dread of losing autonomy. The conflicting feelings illustrate the pressures of cultural expectations and the personal sacrifices that often accompany them, highlighting the tension between desire and obligation in her life.