It’s been a very long time since I’ve felt that scared. As I walked to the interview room down all those dusty hallways, I started to realize how desperate I was to join The Order. It was vital for me to make a good first impression. I must have stood in front of my mirror that morning for at least an hour, making sure there wasn’t a hair out of place on my head, and attempting to get the knot of my tie looking as perfect as possible.

Master Napoli did things to me that I didn’t know could be done. I experienced sensations which blew my mind and entirely changed the way that I perceive myself.

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.

From time to time we like to test our Apprentices—catching them off guard when they’re least expecting it, just to remind them that the oaths they make are full-time commitments and not just reserved for official rituals. I was particularly thrilled to be tasked with devising and overseeing a test for Apprentice Devall.

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.