Then the entire dining hall erupted.

Wooden chairs scraped. Cups clattered. A roar swelled from the walls as cadets slammed their spoons against their mugs while some slammed on the tables, creating a thunderous rhythm that echoed like battle drums.

"It's nigh! It's nigh! It's nigh!"

The chant rolled like a storm down the long tables, shaking the torches.

Elowyn grinned wide, standing tall on the table.

"The Hollow Six must wait for us!" she shouted over the rising ...