Yvonne's mother-in-law, Anna, accuses her of faking illness to avoid paying respects, questioning her filial piety. Yvonne defends herself, reminding Anna she had nursed her back to health for three years. She implies her exhaustion stems from serving the Emperor, a point her husband, Simon, confirms. Simon then defends Yvonne against his mother, prompting a heated family argument where a relative insinuates infidelity, causing Simon to storm out. Later, while the Emperor promises Simon a bright future for his service, Yvonne is summoned to the palace again that night.