After Martin gets hurt making a kite for the newcomer Joanna, his fiancée, Charlotte, sarcastically suggests he go cut bamboo to make more. Martin criticizes Charlotte's coldness, contrasting her with Joanna's sympathy. His mother reveals Martin is slated for a high-ranking promotion, strengthening his position. Privately, Martin resolves to assert dominance over the 'powerless' Charlotte. Confronted by Charlotte about his ingratitude, Martin and his mother side with Joanna. To demonstrate her authority, Charlotte orders her maid to slap Joanna.