Part 1, Chapter 15 Summary

Orual is cold, thirsty, and in pain. She imagines seeing the lamp go on and off and helping a repentant Psyche across the river, but also struggles not to think the god might be real, or Psyche ruined through her plan. Again, she refrains from rushing to Psyche to call it off. Worst of all, Orual fears, as the Fox has hinted, Psyche might now hate her. Sobbing, "Cruel Psyche," as during her sickness, Orual watches for the lamp, which soon enough flickers and vanishes. Orual is sure all is well, whatever well means. She fantasizes shamefully about dying and being mourned by Psyche, the Fox and Bardia, and loved by all posthumously.

Suddenly, the stillness breaks, as light brighter than Orual thinks possible erupts. A great voice fills her with holy terror. It is stern but not ugly, filled with...