Part 1, Chapter 7 Summary

The sight of candlelit Psyche on a bed in their great grandfather's unfinished tower is burnt into Orual's mind. Before she can speak, Psyche comforts her over her bruises, reversing their usual roles. Psyche calls her Maia, the baby name Fox has taught her. When Orual renounces their father, Psyche sits calmly, regally, and reminds her of the Fox's lesson that they should daily recall the evil are to be pitied. Psyche asks Orual to promise not to kill herself but to stand by the Fox as soldiers in battle. Psyche commends Bardia as prudent and courteous, declares the King a stranger to her, and even pities Redival. Orual can bear no more and slumps weeping into Psyche's lap. Psyche says her only fear is perishing slowly while tied to the Tree and finally breaks down, giving Orual the relief of...