The next morning, Ling'er confronts Lin's uncle about the fact that his daughter is not yet married. Lin tries to explain that they are not yet engaged, but the uncle points out that marriage is a royal edict, and breaking it off is a violation of the decree. Lin says that his highness is obsessed with his daughter's reputation, so breaking the engagement would be an act of rebellion against the royal edict. Lin then tells his uncle that if he abolishes the crown prince, who else will be the heir to the throne? If he succeeds, the whole world will be scandalized, and Lin will be reviled. The uncle calms down, saying that he will be with his niece no matter what. Lin tells the uncle that he is disrespectful to the king because he is in command of the army, and that he can afford to thank the king for having him with him. Lin explains that there is no reason to abolish the military power of the king now that the peace treaty has been signed, since there is nothing to fight over at the border. Lin sends his people to collect evidence, and he will ask the old woman to approve the adoption.