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Warning,
This chapter has mentions of blood and violence, so please be advised.
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Edmund cradled Stella-Maris in his arms as they hurriedly exited the palace, disregarding the anxious expressions of those they passed.
Still reeling from the recent events, Stella-Maris was resolute in her decision to leave Calormen. As they approached the palace doors, the Narnian and Etherean soldiers exchanged concerned glances upon witnessing the princess's distress.
"Is everything alright, your graces?" Phillip inquired, moving closer to the royal couple.
"We need to depart immediately. Soldiers! Mount your horses!" Edmund commanded.
He assisted Stella-Maris in climbing onto Phillip's horse. "You will ride with me, Stel."
Stella-Maris could only nod in response. Edmund then positioned himself behind her, gripping the reins firmly. With a decisive pull, Phillip and Edmund guided the remaining Narnian and Etherean soldiers out of Calormen.
As Edmund rides atop Phillip, he glances down and observes that Stella-Maris appears dazed, having remained silent since their departure from the palace.
"Stel, what did you witness?" he inquired, drawing the princess's attention.
"We need to arrive at the Archenland border before darkness descends," Stella-Maris replied, sidestepping Edmund's question.
Her assertion felt nearly unattainable, as the sun was nearing the horizon and they had yet to reach the heart of the desert.
Edmund insisted, "That's not feasible, Stel. The sun is setting, and we are nowhere near the center of the desert. The border of Archenland is still several hours ahead of us."
Stella-Maris turned to him, locking eyes with Edmund. "You don't see the bigger picture, Ed. We must get to Archenland; otherwise, there will be dire consequences."
Edmund responded with a shake of his head. "Why is that? Help me understand, Stella-Maris."
Her eyes started to fill with tears. "He desires my blood," she stated. Edmund's expression turned serious. "Who?"
"Tash. He wants my blood," she replied, her voice trembling with fear.
Edmund placed an arm around Stella-Maris's shoulder and leaned in to speak softly to her. "I will protect you at all costs, Stella-Maris. They would have to get past me first, even if it means sacrificing my life."
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It appears that with strong determination, anything can be achieved. By nightfall, Edmund, Stella-Maris, and the rest of the army successfully arrived in the mountainous regions of Calormen.
