The next day, the Mings are still in control of the capital. The emperor has allowed the soldiers to leave without arousing any protest. The vice-minister of the ministry, Yang, has come to visit Ming and is waiting for him in the hall. Ming tells him that the sea ban has been lifted as a means to gain political advantage. Ming says that the trade ban was lifted because it was in the best interest of the country. Ming also tells the story of the southern song dynasty, which was prosperous but had to rely on the support of the people.