Content Warning: This section of the guide contains descriptions of racism and graphic violence.

Mrs. Jerrine Reed, who first welcomed Adelaide to Montana, is now standing on stage at the Big Sandy Opera House, speaking to a group of women and a few men. The opera house is the pride and joy of Big Sandy, for Mrs. Reed modeled it on the much more impressive opera house in Helena. Speaking on behalf of her chapter of the women’s social group, the Busy Bees, Mrs. Reed shares noteworthy news about the women of Big Sandy and beyond. She makes a special announcement about the imminent grand opening of a woman-owned “power laundry,” and she also shares news about the war in Europe, relating the story of a Russian princess who disguised herself as a man in order to enlist.

Adelaide and Sam attend this gathering, accompanied by Grace, who has been staying in town while recovering from her wound. Although Adelaide is captivated by Mrs. Reed’s news, thoughts of the creature distract her, for it has not returned since it last escaped. Adelaide gazes around the room and spots Matthew Kirby in the orchestra seating below, along with his uncle Finn.