The Magic City · Chapter
IV: The Dragon-Slayer explained
Philip is tasked with killing the great green dragon to become the Deliverer.
What happens
Philip is tasked with killing the great green dragon to become the Deliverer. He discovers the dragon is actually his old clockwork lizard, now grown large and alive. Using a rope and the dragon's key, he defeats it, only to find the 'princess' he rescues is Lucy.
Themes in this chapter
Bravery and Selflessness
Philip overcomes his fear to face the dragon, acting as a hero despite his doubts.
Imagination and Creativity
The dragon is revealed to be a clockwork toy from Philip's past, highlighting the power of imagination in the magic city.
Characters to notice
- Philip Haldane
Accepts the role of Deliverer, devises a plan to slay the dragon using its clockwork key, and successfully defeats it.
- Lucy
Bound as the princess to be rescued; revealed to be Lucy when Philip lifts her veil.
- Noah
Gives Philip instructions and Roman candles, later knights him and presents the princess as a reward.
- Old Perrin
Encourages Philip to become the Deliverer and explains the seven deeds required.
- The Pretenderette
Makes a remark about the princess and is arrested by Noah for contempt.
Key passages
“When you have arranged your plans and are quite sure that you will be able to kill the dragon, light one of these.”
Noah instructs Philip to signal with a Roman candle when he is ready to slay the dragon.
Noah provides the method for coordinating the dragon-slaying.
“It was the clockwork lizard that had been given him the Christmas before last.”
Philip recognizes the dragon as his old clockwork toy from home.
Reveals the dragon's true nature and connects to Philip's past.
“Why! it's only Lucy!”
Philip exclaims in surprise that the princess is actually Lucy.
Climactic reveal of the princess's identity.