Hazel and her Mum arrive at a heavily bomb-damaged Russell Square Station in September 1940.
They observe the destruction of homes and the displacement of families around them.
A double-decker bus is seen perched nose-up in a crater, revealing the randomness of destruction.
Hazel's Mum explains the routine of the bombers using the Thames as a guide and describes the horror of the nighttime bombings to confirm the real dangers they face.
Hazel is overwhelmed by the reality of war and promises to return to Binsey to stay safe.
Hazel's mother stresses the importance of her job to keep Hazel safe, emphasizing the British spirit of resilience against destruction.
At the Great Ormond Street Hospital, Hazel finds Kelty injured but alive, with her mother having died from the bombings.
Kelty, facing the prospect of living with a rarely seen aunt in Lancashire, expresses her wish to go back to Binsey with Hazel.
The trade of colored ribbons among girls in the hospital is introduced as a symbol of comfort and normalcy.
Matron Lane, in charge of the ward, asserts that Kelty must stay for one more day to recover and wait for her aunt.
Hazel witnesses a young patient labeled on her forehead for emergency medical communication, heightening the war's impact on children.
Hazel and her sister Flora face the harsh reality that their fantasies like Whisperwood are just illusions compared to the war.
Hazel resolves to protect Flora and aid Bridie, acknowledging the need to stay safe during the war instead of seeking escapism.