When the Witch announces herself as “Empress,” the crowd cheers. She bows but then realizes that the crowd is mocking her. She takes a knife and cuts through the iron bar of the nearby lamppost, demonstrating her strength. Using this bar, she hits two policemen, who crumple to the ground.

Digory thinks that this is his chance and rushes forward. Polly is suddenly beside him, having rushed down from her bedroom as soon as she could. Digory tells her to prepare to touch the yellow ring and keep hold of him. Digory lunges forward as the Witch hits another policeman. The crowd shouts and begins throwing stones, making the Witch angrier. The Cabby stays close to his horse, trying to calm it. Uncle Andrew vainly tells the Witch to compose herself. Digory grasps the Witch’s ankle, but she kicks him in the mouth. He grabs hold of her again and tells Polly to touch the ring. As they whirl through the darkness, Digory hears Uncle Andrew whimpering and realizes that he has accidentally transported his uncle, the horse, and the Cabby.

As soon as the Witch realizes that they are in the Wood between the Worlds, she looks ill.