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Dad rests his chin in his palm and draws a long breath. “I’m sure somebody will clean up the mess.”

“But they—”

“Go. If I want to hear more, I’ll call for you.”

“Yes, your majesty.” He leaves.

“Shouldn’t you hear the rest of what he has to say?” I ask.

“Don’t second-guess the king.” Middlebrooks narrows her eyes at me. “It’s our responsibility to back him up, especially when subjects are near.”

I look around. “It’s just us in here.”

“Really?” She glances over at a far corner of the room.

“The statue of an ancient king?”

“Look near the curtain.”

Then I see him.

“Always hiding in plain sight.” She snaps her fingers, then the servant comes over and bows. “Take the princess back to the academy. We’re done here.”

I glare at her. We’re far from done.