The paper remained between Amelia's fingers.
Three nights.
That was all the time Seraphine had given them.
Nobody spoke. The fireplace crackled softly, filling the silence that had settled over the library.
Amelia read the message again.
_You have until the next blood moon to choose: become the vessel, or watch everyone you love die._
Her eyes stopped on the final words. _Everyone you love._
It wasn't a threat directed only at her.
It was a promise.
Bryan took the paper from her and read it again. His expression remained calm, but Amelia could see the tension in his jaw.
"What happens in three nights?" she asked.
Elara answered. "The blood moon."
"I know that."
Her mother looked at her. "You don't understand what it means."
"Then explain it."
El
