In Episode 2, Nakamura recounts his conversation with the Australian doctor to Colonel Kota, who then takes Nakamura to witness the beheading of Tiny. The colonel offers Nakamura tips on executing a beheading and proceeds to kill Tiny despite Nakamura's suggestion to retreat when Tiny prays fervently. This scene highlights the brutal reality of the prisoners' situation and the psychological impact on Nakamura as he experiences the act as both euphoric and horrid.

Episode 2 shows the burgeoning love affair between Dorrigo and Amy in the 1940s. They share a moment swimming together, during which Amy accidentally slices her leg. Dorrigo tenderly attends to her wound, and their intimacy grows as he kisses her leg until she gently stops him. This relationship contrasts with Dorrigo's present-day marriage to Ella.

Chum Fahey is tasked with sending the prisoners a morale-boosting song in Episode 2. This act is part of the prisoners' attempts to maintain some spirit despite their harsh conditions.

In the 1980s timeline, Episode 2 portrays Dorrigo's current life as banal and contrasts it with his past. He attends a charity dinner with his wife Ella, where they meet Lynette and her husband Rick. Additionally, Dorrigo takes a risk that jeopardizes his surgical career, reflecting his internal conflict and dissatisfaction with his present life.

Episode 2 uses three timelines: the 1940s during the war, the 1980s in Dorrigo's present life, and the prison camp scenes. The timelines show Dorrigo's love affair with Amy, his marriage to Ella, and his experiences as a prisoner of war. Some viewers find the timelines confusing, especially since the two main female characters resemble each other in early episodes, which can make it challenging to follow the narrative.