In a lively town, a grand feast took place at a decorated kiosk. At one end of the long table sat the alcalde, and at the other, Crisostomo Ibarra, with Maria Clara beside him. The other guests included the alferez, the gobernadorcillo, friars, young ladies, and various employees, all engaged in conversation and laughter. 

During the dinner, a messenger brought news to Capitan Tiago that the Captain-General would be visiting his house. The announcement caused excitement among the guests, particularly because Ibarra and Maria Clara were present. The friars exchanged uneasy glances, feeling slighted by the Captain-General’s choice not to stay at the convento. Despite this, the conversation returned to small talk, though a hint of tension lingered. 

Suddenly, Ibarra stood up, his face pale with rage, and his eyes locked with Padre Damaso’s. He grabbed the knife beside his plate and, voice trembling with anger, confronted the priest: “You are not welcome here. You dishonored my father, and now you dishonor me!” The room fell into stunned silence, everyone frozen, unsure of what would happen next. 

Maria Clara stepped between Ibarra and Padre Damaso, her voice soft but firm. “Crisostomo, please,” she pleaded, trying to calm him. Her presence and words brought a brief moment of peace, and Ibarra’s anger softened as he looked at her, torn between justice for his father and his love for her. 

Despite Maria Clara’s plea, Ibarra’s internal conflict remained unresolved. He left the room in silence, his emotions a mix of anger, sorrow, and frustration. The guests were left to reflect on the power dynamics and personal struggles at play, unsure of how the situation would unfold in the future.