On the eve of his wedding, Kason confronts his father Jonah, demanding to know why he must marry Lyla, a woman he dismisses as a butcher's daughter seeking wealth. Jonah insists the marriage is vital, secured through his life's work, and warns Kason that he is lucky to marry her. He cryptically reveals that Kason will meet a very important person at the wedding, leaving his son confused and resentful about the forced union.