The Will of the Many (Hierarchy Book 1)

Almost all children are brought to one of the ancient pillars when they turn twelve, after which they’re able to cede to anyone, any time, without needing the presence of the massive pre-Cataclysm artefacts. Into the darkness that is to come. “Courage,” he whispers. Darkness has fallen properly now, but the valley below is ablaze with light. The utter darkness left by the sealing of the Labyrinth’s exit has been broken: this new, unsettling illumination is a virulent red, the colour of a dying flame, coating the walls and yet with no discernible source.