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The phylomancer was adamant in her prediction: "So long as you hold a wand of hazel you will be safe from all harm!" Heeding her advice, Marmaduke sought out such a tree close by her hut and broke off a rod the length of his arm. Stripping away the leaves, he brandished the wand before him like a rapier and went out into the world. On the road between Brambury and The Esk he met the very men who sought him with murderous intent. "Fate has delivered you into my hands!" said Tarnald the Caitiff. "Prepare to meet your doom!" He gestured for his lieutenant to step forward and dispatch Marmaduke. The man advanced smartly with his sword at the ready. When he attempted to close with Marmaduke he found the sharp tip of the hazel wand leveled uncomfortably close to his eye. Seeking to slip past, the wand was easily twitched back into his line of sight. The lieutenant tried to bat it aside but Marmaduke quickly stepped back placing it out of reach. This dance continued until Tarnald became