The scene opens with Linyue, the son of the current emperor, in the Eastern Palace, where he is being fawned over by officials. He is also loved by his father, who is the current king of China. Linyue tells his father that he will restore order to the country. He tells him that he has been searching for the heir to the throne, and he has found him. He asks his father if he is going to break his ties with him.