Chapter 24
Late in the afternoon, a wave of noise rolled into the courtyard. Thomas and Eileen rushed to the balcony, nearly tripping over George, who was coming groggily awake and struggling to his feet. He joined them on the balcony a few moments later. Together, they watched a wave of students flowing into the courtyard. Their voices were animated and angry, but their swords were sheathed and no one was injured. Most stopped in the courtyard, talking furiously amongst themselves.
Henry and Benjamin broke free from the crowd and charged up the stairs. Thomas could barely control his impatience when they mounted to top stair and gestured the three inside. Both students looked at once exhausted and triumphant.
“News!” Benjamin trumpeted as soon as all of them were inside and the door wa
