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The Talisman, Chapter 15 summary

Chapter 15 of 28 · 13 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 15, Sir Kenneth admits abandoning his watch and losing England’s banner, prompting Richard to condemn him despite his fearless acceptance of blame. Kenneth’s warning about a proposed marriage between Lady Edith and Saladin only increases the King’s anger, while De Vaux unsuccessfully urges the prisoner to explain his conduct.

What happens

  1. Richard celebrates his recovery without his usual guards, while nobles maintain discipline and El Hakim continues his medical rounds.
  2. At sunrise, Sir Kenneth reports the banner’s loss, and Sir Henry Neville confirms blood and a broken spear at the site.
  3. Richard threatens Kenneth with his axe, but De Vaux intervenes, and Kenneth admits that only his hound defended the banner.
  4. Kenneth warns of a scheme to marry Lady Edith to Saladin, provoking Richard’s anger rather than gratitude.
  5. The Queen’s arrival interrupts the confrontation, and Richard orders Kenneth imprisoned and promptly executed with his knightly honors intact.
  6. De Vaux offers sympathy and asks for an explanation, but Kenneth accepts his sentence and refuses to confide in him.

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In this chapter

Sir KennethRichardSaladinEdithThomas de VauxTheme: Duty and desire

What to notice

Kenneth accepts punishment for his failure without pleading for life. His resolve contrasts with Richard’s fury and deepens De Vaux’s sympathy.

Quick check

Who does Kenneth say sheds blood defending the banner?

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