After the discovery of Gracie Banks' rotting corpse on the marshes in the closing of the premiere, the locals prepare for another attack with netted fencing and speared traps. Rumors spread like wildfire throughout the neighborhood and the flying serpent causes pandemonium amongst its god-fearing community. Cora tries to calm the townsfolk with kindness and science, but they seem to distrust the foreigner at every turn. Vicar Will Ransome starts to distance himself from the unruly mob and questions his own faith as the fable takes hold. Cora moves in to a picturesque cottage by the coast and begins to investigate the strange goings on to many of the locals' dismay. It's another beautifully shot episode, with raw landscapes and period-accurate slum streets, all providing a real visual treat. Even the opening credits feel like the novel's front cover brought to life. There is some exquisite filmmaking taking place, it's just a shame the plotting is so slowly paced. Back in London and Doctor Luke performs a successful heart operation, whilst socialist Martha decides to write to a politician about poor housing standards. Will and Cora's relationship grows, with the two intellectuals spending more intimate time together. He even presents her with a lobster fossil as a souvenir. The vicar seems open to more scientific ideology, being well read and logical in his processing. There's an unspoken tension between the duo too, with Will probing at Cora's abusive past and an unmistakable fluttering of romance in the air. It would be regrettable if the two are involved in a sordid affair, but I wouldn't be surprised either. The narrative plods along, until a rather ridiculous finale takes shape. Cora asks to speak with the local children, in the hopes of teaching them about science and history. Will's manic assistant, Matthew Evansford is on hand to steer the conversation away from any blasphemy or evolutionary debate, yet the talk of the sea beast sends the kids into a frenzy. The children chant and shake as if possessed and stomp in unison. Naomi has some type of epileptic fit, whilst the adults look on in utter disbelief.
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