Before he or anyone else can act, the Vagrant draws the sword. Four squires surge forward but the Vagrant turns, and something in them falters. Sir Phia and Able are already on their knees. Surprised, an eye opens. Understanding dawns on young faces. Baby swords are dropped from shamed fingers and suddenly they cannot prostrate themselves fast enough. By contrast the Vagrant brings the sword down slowly, until the blade is an inch from Vesper’s face. An eye looks at her sleepily. Vesper puts a finger to her lips. The sword is quiet. An eye closes. The Vagrant takes a step nearer Sir Phia,
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