The inspirational biology teacher, Matteo, is based on David Lack, the ornithologist, who did a lot of his early research on robins with the help of his pupils [4] Talitha ('Tally') Hamilton is the daughter of the town's beloved doctor.

Following the outbreak of World War II, Tally is very upset to learn she will be sent to an English boarding school, Delderton, but does so at the request of her father.

When Karil meets Tally at the Dragonfly Pool, his place of comfort and peace, the two immediately become friends.

The King's assassination is revealed to have been planned by the Germans, and they invade and overtake Bergania.

The group of dancers quickly disguise Karil as part of the team in order to protect him, and take him back to school with them.