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giving way, and in the very midst of the flames an enormous serpent reared itself up close to his face.

And what was more strange still, this serpent had the head of a woman.

At such an unexpected sight many men would have turned and run for their lives; but the little soldier, though he was so small, had a true soldier’s heart. He only made one step backwards, and grasped the hilt of his sword.

‘Don’t unsheath it,’ said the serpent. ‘I have been waiting for you, as it is you who must deliver me.’

‘Who are you?’

‘My name is Ludovine, and I am the daughter of the King of