The Pathless on Paths---------Chapter VI part 4(5)

“To that question I believe Sanders has the answer.” Emmerich said from behind them. He was cut free of the webs, though much sticky residue is left on his hazmat suite. Sanders crouched besides him and removed several cartridges from a rifle magazine, and pried the slug off. He carefully dumped the gunpowder from the casing onto his palm. “I read this in a novel. Don’t know if it will work or not...better than waiting for death, I suppose.” He stood up and smeared them on the outermost webs.

Louder tip-tap sounds came from behind the corner, slowly advancing. The throng of spiders grew restless, tapping their clawed legs on the floor, as if drum-rolling for the entrance of a great chieftain, whom all worshiped. Some had the bravery to advance once more, yet the few dared to come forth again were quickly slain.
“Better hurry up now, young man...” Clark said, raising his shotgun. “It’s getting close. Real close...”
“I’m on it, chief.” Sanders pulled out a lighter and held it up to the gunpowder coated webs. Just as the flame licked the strings, they sprang into flames. The web now burned itself away at a great speed, and their path soon began to clear. The company began to retreat, following the burning webs.