It feels like forever since I was initiated into The Order. I can’t really remember how it felt to be that young, innocent boy who walked into the chamber, heart pounding like crazy in my mouth, wondering what on earth I’d gotten myself into, terrified that I’d embarrass myself, or, worse still, the Master.

It doesn’t really matter how many times you meet with the Masters. They always seem to have an ability to catch you off guard. Last month, I was ambushed in the woods, blindfolded and dragged into a room I didn’t even know existed. I was given a secret name which I’m not allowed to share with anyone. I don’t even dare write it down because it sometimes feels like even the walls are watching me in this place. The Masters seem to know pretty much everything about me—everything I’m even thinking. It’s both terrifying and hugely exciting.

Walking into that room was not exactly easy. Most of the ceremonial chambers I’ve visited in the past have been pure white—almost blindingly so. This one was pitch black. The only light came from a few candles which were flickering, casting crazy shadows which seemed to dance in the darkness.