human-compassion-under-crisis

In this chapter set in Croydon during October 1944, Mary and Fairchild respond to the aftermath of a V-1 flying bomb explosion that has devastated a street, including a cinema and a newspaper office. Mary discovers a severely injured man trapped under rubble and attempts to stabilize him with a tourniquet and bandages, while struggling with limited light and resources. Despite her efforts and promises to save him, the man succumbs to his injuries as another explosion occurs nearby.