Prologue

It was a cool summer night, yet sweat dripped down Zach Stone’s back as he waited in the agreed meeting spot. The moon was full and bright, casting a vast yellow halo that reflected on the gentle waves. All was silent.

Perched on the ragged cliff edge of Gallows Island, staring out to sea, Zach felt his heart thump and blood rushed in his ears like a drum beat. As a twig snapped behind him, Zach shivered. A chill ran up his spine and down his arms, turning his fingers icy.

Slowly standing and turning round, Zach met the steely glare of Judge Ambrose. The judge’s face looked jaundiced in the moon’s light, giving him an eerie glow. Taking a cautious step towards the judge, away from the cliff edge, Zach gave a nervous smile.

‘It is almost time,’ said Judge Ambrose.

Zach nodded, unsure whether to speak.

‘The Reflectory is still guarded, but the Shadow Walkers are ready to march. They’re waiting for my command.’

Again, Zach nodded.

‘You know what you have to do?’

‘Yes, sir,’ replied Zach, his voice much squeakier than intended.

‘Good. When we unleash the secret weapon, there’ll be no stopping us.’

Judge Ambrose turned to leave, but after a few steps, he spun round and fixed Zach with a hard stare. Instantly, a searing pain shot through Zach’s body. It felt like a lightning bolt was trapped under his skin.

‘You’ll make sure there are no mistakes this time, boy?’

The fiery pain surged into Zach’s limbs, filtering into every vein and sinew, finally settling around his throat. Zach clawed at his neck, but there was nothing there to grab. He nodded furiously.

When Judge Ambrose was satisfied that his message had been conveyed, he averted his gaze. Zach dropped to the ground, coughing and spluttering.

‘I’m glad we understand each other,’ called the judge as he walked away.

Zach’s eyes narrowed as he watched the figure disappear down the hill. Rubbing his sore throat, he spat onto the ground. But there was no way he was giving up; Zach had waited almost two months for this opportunity – the chance to destroy Ebony Smart and bring his mum back to life. Revenge was within his grasp.