Light filtered into Faide Keep only as a dim gray gloom. Air tasted flat, damp, and heavy. Out from the gates sallied the troops. Each carried a crock, a jug, a skin, or a pan containing strong vinegar. “Quickly now,” called Lord Faide, “but careful! Spare the vinegar, don’t throw it wildly. In close formation now—forward.” The soldiers approached the wall, threw ladles of vinegar ahead. The foam crackled, melted. “Waste no vinegar,” shouted Lord Faide. “Forward, quickly now; bring forward the vinegar!” Minutes later they burst out upon the downs. The First Folk stared at them, blinking. “Charge,” croaked Lord Faide, his throat thick with fumes. “Mind now, wasp nets! Two soldiers to each knight! Charge, double-quick. Kill the white beasts.” The men dashed ahead. Wasp tubes were leveled. “Halt!” yelled Lord Faide.
