“Offices are in the first building on the right. The others contain apartments and indoor training facilities. In the middle, there’s a large sparring area. However, when Dexter wants to gather all his soldiers together, they convene at the southern end of the city where there’s an open field.” Colbert turned to face the palace. “Stables are on that end.” He pointed west. “This is the back of the palace. On the top floor, dead center, are the royal family’s bedchambers. Our private sitting rooms are on the northern side. Third floor is where the guest suites are located. Our servants are housed on the second. On the first, you will find the kitchen, great hall, throne room, meeting rooms, and other rooms of that nature.” He folded his arms. “Sometimes, it helps seeing it from this angle to understand the layout better.”

Finn started barking at something in the lake.

“It’s probably a fish.” Colbert chuckled.

A frog jumped at Finn’s face. The dog yelped, then ran at Colbert, sprinting around him excitedly.

“Calm down, Finn. It’s just a frog.”

Finn jumped, his front paws landing right below Colbert’s chest while his back paws remained on the ground. He licked the prince’s chin.

Colbert hissed, shoving Finn away from him. “Lady Reid, I must ask something of you. Lend me your arm.” His voice sounded strained.

Immediately, Reid gave him her arm to lean on even though he stood a foot taller than her. His face had drained of all color. “Are you okay?” she asked, worried.

“I’m fine.”

“You don’t look it.” She put her hand on his, feeling his clammy skin. “Shall we return to your office in the library?” she asked, recalling the sofa and blankets she’d seen in there.

“Where’s Finn?”

“He’s right behind us,” she assured him.

With his free hand, he touched the spot where Finn had pawed him. When he pulled his hand away, blood covered it. “Please escort me to my suite.”

“Did Finn do that?” His nails didn’t look sharp enough to break skin through a shirt.

“Just help me to my bedchamber.”

“Very well. And then I’ll fetch a healer to take a look at that.”

“No. Just get me upstairs. No one can know.”

If Reid aided him in his time of need, maybe she’d gain his trust and respect. “Let’s go.” She tried to steady him as she helped him into the palace, Finn following right behind.

He told her which way to go to reach the stairs. Clutching onto the banister, he helped her hoist him up the three flights as quickly as possible. At the fourth, he leaned against the wall, breathing heavily. His forehead beaded with sweat.

Reid grabbed his arm. “Come on.” She headed toward Prince Henrick and Princess Nara’s suite, knowing Dexter and Colbert’s bedchambers would be located nearby.