A return banquet for Mr. Zaiden Eaton draws Northvale’s elite. Outside, a beggar boy, Sean, is mocked and struck; his mother confronts the woman who refuses to take responsibility. A socialite claims exclusive access—“I’m Ayla’s bestie”—and orders the beggar away. Meanwhile General Lea Mayer, just back from war, insists she must attend her sister Ayla’s banquet but orders a pass and plain clothes to hide her identity. Guests buzz; Mrs. Eaton steps out and points to the beggar as the cause. The crowd freezes as a sister cries, "What?!", leaving the confrontation and Mayer’s incognito plan unresolved.