“Old man, what are you hiding there?” The young maiden asked.

It was late, almost dark, she couldn’t see well, but she was still young enough to be bold around strangers.

“Nothing of your concern,” the strange man said.

“Oh, don’t be like that old man.” The maiden stepped closer. “Someone who smells like the beach at low tide shouldn’t be as rude as you are.”

She had started to notice how really bizarre the old man’s clothes and skin were, but her curiosity was stronger than her caution.

“I am rude, you said?” The odd little man asked.

The maiden nodded. She smiled, hoping her charm would convince him to show her what was hiding behind his back.

“I’m sorry,” he said,...

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