Chapter 534: Chapter 534

A sharp knock woke Katelina the next evening. Jorick stirred next to her and gave his customary morning gasp, like someone who'd forgotten to breathe all night. The rap repeated, then she heard footsteps patter down the corridor.

She threw the bedclothes back with the realization that the sun wasn't yet gone. Jorick told her vampires who didn't get enough sleep needed extra blood-

"It's a matter of minutes," Jorick replied. "Though I hope it's not a regular occurrence."

Dressed, they met Jamie in the hallway. The Executioner nodded a greeting, his expression grim.

"They woke you, too?" Jorick asked.

"Yes. I think we need to discuss our status. I have no problem with servant's quartersI've slept in worsebut only Ark, Eileifr, or the High Council can command me to wake early."

Jorick scoffed. "I wouldn't wake even for them."