This is the darkest part of the story. With Ulysses lost and danger closing in, Flora is gripped by , a pain sharper than anything her cynicism had prepared her for. Her old voice returns, whispering that she was foolish ever to hope. For a moment she feels utterly , as though every good thing has slipped away. But she does not surrender. Setting down her armour, she lets herself be and admits how much she cares. Out of to save her squirrel, she finds a courage she never knew she had — and turns , refusing to give Ulysses up without a fight.