Conrade, Don John’s advisor, greets him, finding him in a poor mood.

Don John is Don Pedro’s embittered, illegitimate brother who has only recently reconciled with Don Pedro after having fought against him.

Conrade advises Don John not to get into trouble again, but he has no intention of being humble before his brother.

Borachio enters and tells Don John about Don Pedro’s plan to woo Hero on Claudio’s behalf.

Before heading to the party, Don John enlists Conrade and Borachio in a plan to undermine Claudio.