Matchmaker Liu Qiaozui came to the Zhong residence on behalf of Zhang Tieniu's family to propose marriage. Sun Yun-niang politely declined due to Zhang Guihua's greedy and vindictive nature. The Zhang family, having promised extra payment to the matchmaker, was furious. Zhang Guihua then spread rumors in the village claiming the Zhong family had rejected the match for a higher bride price.
