Elder Thalia Reed's POV
The old books tumbled from the shelf as I yanked the secret lever. Behind me, I heard the heavy footsteps of the Guardians searching the house. They'd already checked this room once, but they'd be back soon.
I didn't have much time.
The bookcase swung open with a creak, showing a narrow passage. I slipped inside, pulling it closed just as voices approached. My old bones complained as I hurried down the stone steps, my only light a small crystal that glowed blue in my palm.
For eighty years, I had served as Elder of the Blood Moon Pack, keeper of our most dangerous secrets. Only three people knew about this secret chamber beneath the pack house. Charles, Seraphina, and me.
At the bottom of the stairs, I pressed my hand against the stone door. It recognized my touch and slid open.
"Finally," Orion Blackwood said, rising from where he sat against the wall. "I've been waiting for hours."
