The Talisman, Chapter 26 summary

What happens

1. Thomas de Vaux brings military reports, while Richard warmly welcomes Blondel and summons Berengaria and Edith to hear him.
2. Edith grows pale after meeting the Nubian’s eyes, and Blondel waits for her recovery before singing.
3. Blondel sings of a knight who risks death in a princess’s nightdress and asks her to wear the bloodstained garment publicly.
4. The princess accepts the test, and the knight promises protection when her father orders marriage and exile.
5. Richard privately urges Edith to marry Saladin, citing political need and a prophecy, but she refuses on grounds of conscience.
6. Richard agrees to send her answer and gives dispatches to the Nubian with orders to leave at dawn.

In this chapter

What to notice

Edith distinguishes ordinary sacrifice from surrendering conscience. Her refusal blocks Richard’s attempt to make her marriage serve his political and religious aims.

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